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{"source_document": "", "creation_year": 1796, "culture": " English\n", "content": "Produced by David Edwards, Christopher Wright and the\n(This file was produced from images generously made\navailable by The Internet Archive)\nTHE JUVENILE LAVATER.\n[Illustration]\n  The\n  JUVENILE LAVATER;\n  OR\n  _A Familiar Explanation_\n  of the\n  Passions of Le Brun.\n  _Calculated for the_\n  Instruction & Entertainment of Young Persons\n _INTERSPERSED WITH_\n  Moral and Amusing Tales,\n  _Illustrated with 19 Plates._\n  _BY GEORGE BREWER_,\n  Author of Hours of Leisure, Siamese Tales, &c. &c.\n  LONDON:\n  _Printed at the Minerva Press_.\n  FOR A.K. NEWMAN & C^o. LEADENHALL STREET.\nCONTENTS\n  ADMIRATION with ASTONISHMENT   42\n  JOY with TRANQUILLITY          94\n  SIMPLE BODILY PAIN            120\n  HATRED or JEALOUSY            167\n  JUVENILE LAVATER;\n  OR,\n  A FAMILIAR EXPLANATION\n  OF THE\n  PASSIONS OF LE BRUN,\n  CALCULATED FOR THE\n  _Instruction and Entertainment of Young Persons_;\n  INTERSPERSED WITH\n  MORAL AND AMUSING TALES,\n  ILLUSTRATING\n  THE BENEFIT AND HAPPINESS ATTENDANT ON THE\n  GOOD PASSIONS,\n  AND\n  _THE MISFORTUNES WHICH ENSUE THE BAD, IN\n  THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF LIFE_.\n  BY GEORGE BREWER,\n  _Author of Hours of Leisure, Siamese Tales, &c. &c._\n  _LONDON:_\n  Printed at the Minerva Press,\n  FOR A. K. NEWMAN AND CO.\n  Leadenhall Street.\nINTRODUCTION.\n_To PARENTS, and the GUARDIANS of YOUTH._\nThe Doctrine of Physiognomy, as attempted to be established by the\ningenious LAVATER, may, in frequent instances, appear chimerical; but\nthere is a Physiognomy, the rules of which are always true, and whose\nevidences are of service to morality. The deformed Passions,\ndisagreeable in their appearance, and dangerous in their consequences,\nare of a character that may be easily understood, and the features of\nugliness so faithfully described to the pupil, as to cause him to avoid\nvice, since it has such frightful representations as would make him\nhateful to himself and to others, and in consequence prefer those\nPassions which bestow on the countenance the beautiful and placid\nfeatures of a good and quiet mind.\nPREFACE.\nWhen it is considered, that in the indulgence of the good or bad\nPassions of the Human Mind, depends the happiness or misery of mankind,\nI shall not be accused of having chosen a subject beneath the province\nof my pen; I shall, on the other hand, have my fears even of being\nunequal to the task. I indulge, however, a hope, that aided by the\ntalents of the inimitable LE BRUN, I may be able to place an inscription\nat least, beneath the portraits he has so admirably delineated, and\nwhich may have some effect on the mind of the young reader, who, when he\nobserves that the _best_ people look _best_ and most happy, will be\ninclined to become of the _best_.\nLECTURE ON THE _PASSIONS_, &c.\nA few years ago, there lived a gentleman, in the West of England, whose\nname was Willock: he was married to a very amiable lady, and had five\nchildren--three boys and two girls; the boys were named John, William,\nand Henry; and the girls, Caroline and Louisa. Mr. Willock was possessed\nof a very handsome fortune, but preferred a country to a town life, as\nhe was very domestic, and his lady equally fond of retirement. The young\npeople were brought up in the love of God, and of their parents; and\ntheir dispositions were so good, that it was very seldom, indeed, that\neither their father or mother had occasion to find fault with them; so\nthat perhaps there was not any where to be found a more happy family.\nMr. Willock was very fond of his sons and daughters; and, though he was\na man of learning and taste, frequently indulged them with amusements,\nwhich he had the goodness to provide; but these entertainments were\nalways such as were blended with instruction.\nThe _young persons_ of Mr. Willock's family were frequently visited by\nthe _young persons_ of another family, the sons and daughters of a Mr.\nTrevor, who resided in the neighbourhood.\nIt happened one autumn, that Mr. Willock had promised that he would\nproduce some new entertainment for his young friends, as soon as the\nevenings should begin to lengthen; which intimation was not forgotten by\nHenry, who was a very clever boy, but rather too impatient.--Henry\neagerly watched for the evenings getting longer; and an observation\nwhich his father accidentally made one day on the subject, was enough\nfor Henry: he went immediately to his mother, who was seated at the\nfireside at work, and whispered her to remind Mr. Willock of his\npromise, which was instantly understood by all the rest of the young\npeople; and \"Do, mamma,\" was repeated by one after the other. Mr.\nWillock guessed, without much difficulty, at what was going on, and,\nwithout saying a word, rose up and walked to a table, on which was\nplaced his letter-case, out of which he took a very handsome, small, red\nmorocco port-folio. John, William, Henry, Caroline, Louisa, and the two\nyoung visitors, were all at once engaged in a very respectful manner,\nfor they did not say a word, watching Mr. Willock, with their eyes\nsparkling with pleasure and expectation. At length Mr. Willock drew a\nchair, and sitting down, told all the young people to draw round the\ntable, and that he would shew them something which would please them\nvery much. Henry's eyes were as bright as two stars at this\nintelligence. \"What is it, papa?\" was the next question.--\"This book, my\ndears,\" said he, \"contains some very curious engravings, the Portraits\nof the Passions of the Human Mind, drawn by a very great French artist,\nnamed LE BRUN; but I will explain them to you as I go on. Now then\n(continued he, opening the book), the entertainment begins.\" At these\nwords, he turned over one of the leaves, and presented the portrait of\nATTENTION.\n\"Oh dear!\" was now the general exclamation among the young people, while\nthe eyes of all of them were in an instant fixed on the same object.\n\"Pray, sir, whose portrait is that?\" cried John, the eldest boy.--\"That,\nmy dear,\" said Mr. Willock, \"is your face, and the face of all of you at\nthis moment.\"--\"Indeed, papa,\" cried Henry, \"you are only jesting with\nus; for I am sure that it is not in the least like me.\"--\"Well then,\"\nsaid Mr. Willock, \"look at your brother William, and tell me if it is\nnot like him.\"--\"Yes, indeed, papa,\" cried Henry; \"he makes just such\nanother face.\"--\"True, my dear Henry,\" returned Mr. Willock; \"and so do\n_each_ of you; because this is the face of _Attention_, which _each_ of\nyou show at this moment. Only observe how the eyebrows sink and approach\nthe sides of the nose--how the eyeballs turn towards the object of\nnotice--how the mouth opens, and especially the upper part--how the head\ndeclines a little, and becomes fixed in that posture, without any\nremarkable alteration--such,\" said he, \"is the portrait of _Attention_,\ndrawn by Le Brun.\n\"But now, my dear children,\" continued Mr. Willock, \"as I have showed\nyou the picture of _Attention_, it will be proper that I should describe\nthe passion to you. _Attention_ is implanted in us by nature, as the\nmeans by which we may become acquainted with the objects of our\ncuriosity, and is a virtue, whenever a proper object is selected. The\nface is then always interesting, however intent it may appear; but it is\nthe choice of a proper object which can alone make this passion of\nvalue, and truly estimable. _Attention_ is therefore either praiseworthy\nor not, according to the object it selects. Praiseworthy Attentions are\nchiefly as follow:--\n\"_Attention_ to the duties of religion.\n\"_Attention_ of children to parents.\n\"_Attention_ of young people to their studies.\n\"_Attention_ to our friends and acquaintance.\n\"_Attention_ to the sick.\n\"_Attention_ to business.\n\"_Attention_ to dress.\n\"_Attention_ to the duties of religion, such as praying to God, and\nattending the divine service, is not only the most delightful\n_Attention_ that can be paid, but is of most advantage to us, as by it\nwe secure the blessing of Providence upon our actions, and it is only a\npreparation for the numerous comforts we enjoy.\n\"_Attention_ of children to parents who have taken care of them from\ninfancy, being a proof of a grateful mind, is always lovely and\npraiseworthy.\n\"_Attention_ of young people to their studies is the only way for them\nto acquire improvement, for without it they must remain for ever in\nignorance; for instance, if, when I shewed you this portrait, you were\nall the time playing, or thinking of something else, you could never\nknow what _Attention_ meant, nor the advantages to be gained by it.\n\"_Attention_ to our friends and acquaintance, particularly to the aged,\nis not only a duty, but shows our politeness and good breeding.\n\"_Attention_ to the sick is required from us by the precepts of\nreligion, and by the need we may some day have for such _Attention_\nourselves.\n\"_Attention_ to business merely consists in minding what we have got to\ndo, and is always rewarded with profit.\n\"_Attention_ to dress is necessary, as far as relates to cleanliness and\npropriety, but no further; and you will observe, that there are many\nother Attentions which rank before it.\n\"There is another _Attention_, which may be called _Attention_ to\ntrifles, which ought only to be paid when there is not any thing more\nworthy of our regard which ought to have the preference.\n\"But as you have all of you been so attentive, I will tell you a story,\nwhich will show you the great virtue and use of _Attention_,\n\"Charles and George were twin brothers, the children of Mr. Wilson, a\ngentleman of small income, but who had nevertheless given them an\nexcellent education. Both Charles and George were boys of naturally good\ndispositions; but Charles was careless, and George thoughtful: George\nalways paid attention to what was said to him, and Charles did not.\nCharles was clever, and George rather dull; but the attention which\nGeorge paid to his studies was so great, that he presently got the start\nof his brother. Charles was very much astonished when he found that\nGeorge understood Latin better than himself, and was not aware that his\ndeficiency was entirely owing to the want of _Attention_.\n\"One day, when George and Charles were both of them very young, their\nfather, who was a wise and good man, made each of them a present of a\nduplicate of this portrait, with strict injunctions to keep them safe,\nand to look at them often.\n\"George had made a great many friends when young, by the _Attention_ he\nwas always disposed to pay to his acquaintance, and particularly one old\ngentleman, who was very infirm, and who received his civilities with\ngreat kindness; Charles, on the contrary, as he did not care for any\none, so there were very few but his parents who cared for him.\n\"At length George and Charles were both of them sent into the world, and\nplaced in the counting-houses of merchants of eminence, who were friends\nof Mr. Wilson.--George immediately began to pay _Attention_ to business,\nand Charles was as _inattentive_ as ever. George was always employed,\nand Charles did nothing but follow pleasure. Now there is not any thing\nmore agreeable than amusement, when it does not interfere with business;\nbut at the same time, there is not any thing that can be more dangerous,\nwhen it does.\n\"In a few years, Charles and George were established in business as\nLeghorn merchants, by the liberality of their father, who left himself\nbut a very small income to live upon. Mr. Wilson had, however, the\npleasure to see both his children well circumstanced, and in a way of\nmaking fortunes, before his death, which happened shortly after.\n\"George paid so much attention to his concerns, that he was already in a\nway of getting rich; and, in addition to his own industry, he had the\npleasure to reap the benefit of his kindness and attention to the infirm\nold gentleman, who died about this time, and left him his whole\nproperty.\n\"Charles, during the whole time of his being in London, had not visited\nhis brother more than three times; and though George had frequently\ncalled to see him, he never took any notice of his kindness, but\naltogether neglected him. Charles was engaged wholly in folly and\nextravagance, and was going on in a very bad way; in short, his concerns\nhad been so mismanaged that he was on the point of becoming a bankrupt.\n\"One day, Charles returned home to his house, in great distress of mind,\nas he had not been able to make up a payment on which his credit\ndepended. He had occasion to examine his desk to find some papers of\nconsequence, when, in his search, he happened to lay his hand upon, and\nunrolled the _neglected_ gift of his father, the portrait of\n_Attention_.\n\"Charles burst into tears when he beheld the picture, and threw himself\nin an agony of despair upon his bed, when a letter was brought him by\nthe servant from an acquaintance, which informed him that his brother\nGeorge was very ill. Charles, for the first time in his life, felt that\nhe had neglected his brother, for the portrait of _Attention_ had made\nan impression upon his mind. He arose immediately, and went to the house\nof Mr. George Wilson, but found that he kept his bed: he was however\nadmitted; and George, who had not expected such a visitor, was nearly\novercome at the sight of his brother. They embraced: and Charles, who\nhad happened to have heard of a case similar to his brother's which had\nbeen managed with great success by his own physician, sent for him,\nwhile he remained at the bed-side. In the course of conversation, George\ninquired very kindly after the state of his brother's affairs, and told\nhim, that he hoped he was going on prosperously. Charles, with a heart\nfull of pain, only gave evasive answers; and on his brother's insisting\nthat something pressed on his spirits, took his leave.\n\"Mr. George Wilson presently got well by the advice of the physician, who\nunderstood his case perfectly; and the very first thing that he did was\nto call upon his brother Charles, to thank him for his kind _Attention_,\nwhich had been the means of restoring him to health.\n\"George, having found the door open, walked immediately towards his\nbrother's counting-house, when he heard some very strong language, and\nfound his brother engaged in conversation with one of his principal\ncreditors, who threatened to make him a bankrupt, if he did not\nimmediately come to a settlement.\n\"George had been noticed by his brother, and could see, in his turn,\nthat Charles was sensible that he had heard every thing. George,\ntherefore, begged of the creditor to acquaint him of the cause of his\ntreating a merchant of eminence with so little respect. The creditor\nmade answer, that payment had been put off continually, and that he\nwould wait no longer. George requested to know the amount of the debt,\nwhich was five thousand pounds, and, with a heart full of love and joy,\nsat down instantly at the desk, and having drawn a cheque on his banker\nfor that amount, put it into the hands of his brother, saying at the\nsame time, 'My dear Charles, this is but a small return for the kind\n_Attention_ you shewed me a few days ago.'--The creditor retired\nsatisfied, and Charles embraced his brother, while the tears of\ngratitude for such a timely assistance flowed from his eyes.\n\"George now desired to know the real state of his brother's affairs,\nwhich, after some difficulty, he was prevailed upon to disclose, and\nwhich were as bad as they could be. However, such was the prudence and\n_Attention_ of Mr. George Wilson, that he soon presented his brother\nwith a plan, by which, with _Attention_, he might extricate himself.\nCharles, thoroughly sensible of his brother's advice, forsook his former\npropensities, and paid the necessary _Attention_ to his affairs; when\nhis difficulties lessened by degrees; and at length he had the pleasure\nto find himself out of debt, and is now a rich man.--Thus, my dear\nchildren, you see that the very _first_ mark of _Attention_ of Charles\nwas blessed with a speedy and successful return of good, and led to\nprosperity. It was too much to expect that he should reap as great a\nharvest as his brother, because he had been wanting of the same\nindustry; nevertheless, as soon as he determined to be industrious and\ncareful, he found that--To _pay_ Attention, is to _receive_ Profit.\"\nThe young people had been extremely attentive during the whole time that\nMr. Willock was relating the history of George and Charles Wilson, and\nseemed not only very much pleased with the story, but convinced of the\ntruth of its moral--that _to pay attention is to receive profit_.\nCaroline began now to show some impatience to see the next picture, and\ncontrived to peep under one corner, when she cried out, \"Oh dear! what a\nbeautiful face!\"--It was\nADMIRATION.\n[Illustration]\n\"Yes, my dear (answered Mr. Willock, turning over the leaf), it is\nbeautiful, because it expresses a good passion, and one that is very\ngrateful to the mind--the passion of _Admiration_. Do you recollect how\ndelighted you all were when you were on the sea-coast, and saw the sun\nrising above the horizon, and the ships sailing before the wind? what\nyou then felt was _Admiration_. In the passion of _Admiration_, the mind\nis occupied with pleasing thoughts, usually accompanied with love,\nesteem, or veneration for the object; and these sensations that give\nsuch a pleasant turn to the features. In this passion (according to Le\nBrun), the eyebrow rises; the eye opens a little more than ordinary;\nthe eyeball, equally between the eyelids, appears fixed on the object;\nthe mouth half opens; and to this disposition of features, astonishment\nonly exaggerates a little.\n\"My dear children,\" cried Mr. Willock, \"I would wish you, as often\nas possible, to indulge this passion, as it leads to many\nvirtues.--_Admiration_ of the objects of nature brings us to the\ncontemplation of an almighty God, who has filled the universe with\nthe innumerable wonders of creation; and, indeed, it is the whole\nwork of _Admiration_ to prove our dependence on him, and his great\npower and goodness; for it is impossible, when we view the sun, the\nmoon, and the numberless stars, the wide ocean, and the extensive\nlandscapes covered with pasture, and with herds and flocks, not to\nreflect, how great and infinitely wise must be the Author of all.\nThis face of Le Brun, you may observe, appears occupied in some such\ncontemplation. It is almost the face of devotion.\n\"Let us see, my dear children, what then are the most worthy objects of\n_Admiration_: They may be principally classed,\n\"_Admiration_ of the beauty and order of the universe.\n\"_Admiration_ of the power and goodness of the Almighty, who created all\nthings.\n\"_Admiration_ of the structure of the human frame, of its strength and\npowers, and of the animal world.\n\"_Admiration_ of the goodness of Providence.\n\"_Admiration_ of the effects of virtue, particularly of industry.\n\"_Admiration_ of worth, of courage, genius, talent, and of the works of\nart.\n\"_Admiration_ of the beauty and order of the universe, is the first in\nwhich we become engaged. We see, you know, my dears, the same blessed\nsun, the fountain of heat, light, and life, return to us every\nday:--clouds may sometimes obscure it, but it soon appears again, to\nconvince us that its presence is ordered by the Creator, to cherish the\nanimal world, and every plant and flower that grows. If it is night, and\nwe view the stars, what can we conjecture but that they must be placed\nin the firmament by an Almighty hand? and it is this reflection that\noccasioned one of our poets, Dr. Young, to say,\n\"_An undevout astronomer is mad_;\" because he could not believe that any\nperson who had his senses would not pause with Admiration, and adore the\nBeing who created these wonders of the heavens. \"Go to the window, my\ndear William,\" said Mr. Willock, \"and look at them for a moment; they\nhave just begun to appear.\"\nWilliam went to the window, and all the rest of the young people\nfollowed him. Mr. Willock named to them some of the principal stars;\nthey were quite delighted; and when he described to them the course of\nthe planets, and that for many thousand years the same order had been\npreserved, their faces showed the disposition of features which belong\nto _Admiration_.\nAfter they had perused the stars for a little time, Mr. Willock called\ntheir attention again to the picture. \"Let us now, my dear children,\"\nsaid he, \"consider what must be the power and goodness of the Almighty,\nwho created all these things; what can we conceive of the hand that\ncould fix a ball of fire in the heavens, of the magnitude of the sun?\nbut our _Admiration_ increases when we reflect, that it is that fire\nwhich occasions the plant and the herb to grow. You know, that in the\nwinter the ground is bare; but when spring appears, and when the sun\napproaches to us, it revives nature; and the seed which has been sown\nmay then be seen sprouting its green heads above the earth: and the\nsame source it is which gives food to man. How good is all this! and do\nyou not think that it calls upon us to be devout, that is, to love God,\nand to desire to follow his commandments, that the Almighty, who has\ngiven us so many blessings, may continue to bless us with his\nProvidence, in all we do?\n\"The next object of our _Admiration_,\" said Mr. Willock, \"is ourselves;\nfor as David says in the Psalms, 'We are fearfully and wonderfully\nmade;' and is it not true? Observe, William, the formation of the eye,\nthe curious make of the fingers, the strength of the muscles; how the\nblood circulates through your veins; and then the powers of your mind;\nhow you can think, how you can reason upon what you hear and see. Is not\nall this matter of _Admiration_?\n\"If,\" continued Mr. Willock, \"we go a step lower, and survey the animal\ncreation, our _Admiration_ will yet be great: whether we examine the\nmighty mammoth, the skeleton of which you saw at the exhibition the\nother day, or the little hummingbird, which was shewn you at the museum,\nstill you must admire. It is true, that we admire also the works of man;\nbut if we do, they will only bring us back, after all, to think of that\ngreat power which gave to human beings such capacities.\n\"The goodness of Providence ought to be the next great object of our\n_Admiration_, which has fixed on such an order and regularity in the\nuniverse, that it sheds a constant and continual blessing and benefit on\nmankind, by the rotation of the seasons, by rains which water the earth,\nand by an autumn sun to ripen the corn, and give us a plentiful harvest.\n\"And, in addition to this general providence, which is for the benefit\nof all mankind, the good, by whom I mean those who love God, may rely on\na providence that will guard, protect, and bless them through the day.\nTherefore, when you rise in the morning, pray sincerely for that\nprotection, and you may depend upon having it. Judge Hale, who was a\nvery good man, used to say, 'that he could always calculate upon the\nsuccesses of the next week, by the attention he had paid to the duties\nof the Sunday; for,' said he, 'whenever I have passed that day in\nadmiration of the goodness of God, and have prayed sincerely for his\nassistance, I have always found success to follow in my temporal\naffairs.' And this subject, he said, he had not considered lightly, but\nhad been convinced of it from experience.\n\"But you must not, my dear children, if you have this reliance upon the\ngoodness of God, ever doubt it, or give way to mistrust, although you\nmay meet in your future life with crosses and vexations; because, though\nyou may meet with them, if you have had such a dependence, you may be\nsure they are for the best, and because you cannot tell what is the best\nfor your own happiness. God Almighty is your heavenly father, as I may\nbe your father on earth; and he loves you with the same care, only with\nmore knowledge and _power_ to bless and protect you. Now it may have\nhappened, that when you have wished to take a walk in a warm summer's\nday, that I may have forbid it, and that you may have been, of course,\ngreatly grieved and disappointed; but when in the cool of the evening I\nhave invited you to taste the refreshing air, you have been much better\npleased; you have discovered my reasons for having forbid it before;\nthat then it was ill timed, that you might have over-heated yourselves,\nand have caught cold; that it would be more pleasant in the evening, and\nthat I could then spare time to accompany you. Think then, my dear\nchildren, how much more should you yield to the disappointments God\nAlmighty may place in your way; and when they happen, make yourselves\nhappy with the best of all comforts, that it is from his goodness.\nBesides, when you come to read more of history, and to grow up, and\nnotice the changes that take place in the lives of your acquaintance,\nyou will find, that what appears as the severest misfortune, may be the\nmeans of bringing great good. You remember the history of Joseph, in the\nBible; and pray recollect that beautiful story through life. Joseph's\nbrethren, you know, who envied him, conspired against his life; but his\nbrother Reuben said, '_do not let us kill him_:' however, they cast him\ninto a pit in the wilderness, and left him. Now their belief was, that\nhe would perish; for they never thought that their cruelty would be the\nvery cause that would bring him to great honour and preferment.--And it\nis thus that the evil designs of the wicked are made to produce good,\ninstead of harm, to the very objects of their hatred. You recollect that\na company of Ishmaelites, coming from Gilead, with the camels, bearing\nspicery, and palm, and myrrh, which they were going to carry down to\nEgypt, bought him of his brethren, drew him out of the pit, carried him\naway with them, and sold him to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, and a\ncaptain of the guard. God Almighty inclined Potiphar to show kindness to\nJoseph, and he advanced him: but a second, and greater misfortune was to\nhappen to Joseph, to produce him still greater good. He is falsely\naccused by Potiphar's wife, and thrown into prison, where was also the\nbutler and baker of Pharaoh. God supplies him with wisdom to interpret\ntheir dreams; he is sent for by Pharaoh, and gives him counsel; the king\npromotes him, and makes him ruler over his house. But a yet more\nextraordinary work of Providence was to be performed; Joseph was to be\nthe means of saving the lives of his brothers, who had conspired against\nhim. There was a great famine in the land of Canaan, where his father\nand brothers dwelt; and Jacob sent his ten sons to Egypt for corn; but\nas he had loved Joseph, and was afraid some mischief would happen to\nBenjamin, he did not send him with them; he was, however, asked for by\nJoseph, who pretended not to know his brothers, and whom they could not\nrecollect in his greatness. They were sent back for Benjamin.\n\"I am sure that you recollect in what manner Joseph entertained his\nbrothers on their return; that he forgave them in his heart; that he\nrelieved them from the horrors of famine; that the only rebuke he used,\nwhen he parted with them, was of the most gentle kind--'_See that you\nfall not out by the way_.'\n\"Now, my dear children, reflect upon this history, and how many times\nJoseph appeared to have cause to complain of the hardness of his lot;\nand yet it all led to honour and promotion; and this should teach you to\ndo the best you can, in whatsoever situation you may be placed, and to\ndepend on God, who is the great object of your _admiration_, for the\nrest.\n\"The next deserving objects of our _admiration_ are the effects of\nvirtue, and particularly of Industry.--Virtue never fails to give\nblessings to mankind; thus it is, that the good are always the most\nhappy. Industry has the same blessing attending it, and the recompence\nis of the most delightful nature, as it gives the means of acquiring\nmany comforts, and the power of doing a great deal of good. Your mamma\ncan tell you a very pleasant story of the good effects of industry, over\nindolence, or despair.\" At this intimation, all the young party directed\ntheir eyes to Mrs. Willock, and \"Pray, mamma, do oblige us,\" was\nrepeated by two or three of them at the same time.\nMrs. Willock, who was not only a very elegant and well-educated woman,\nbut extremely good-natured, smiled at the eagerness of her young\nfriends, and began\n_The Story of the Two Gardeners._\n\"There were two market gardeners, who were also neighbours, and lived\nsomewhere near the village of Hammersmith. It happened, that the early\ncrops of peas, raised by these two poor men, were in one morning killed\nby a severe frost.--One of the gardeners, a very short time afterwards,\nhaving occasion to pass by the gate of his friend, called in to condole\nwith him on their mutual misfortune. 'Ah,' cried he to the other, 'how\nunfortunate have we been, neighbour! do you know that I have done\nnothing but fret ever since my disaster: but, bless me, what is here?\nyou have a fine healthy crop of peas saved from the frost.'--'Not so,'\ncried the other.--'What are they then?' said he. 'Why,' returned the\nother gardener, 'these are what I sowed immediately after my\nloss.'--'What, coming up already?' cried the fretter.--'Yes.'--'Bless\nme, how is that?'--'Why, while you was fretting, I was working, that's\nall.'--'What, and don't you fret when you have a loss?'--'To be sure I\ndo.'--'Well, how then?'--'Why, though I do fret, I always put it off\nuntil after I have repaired the mischief.'--'Lord, why then you have no\noccasion to fret at all.'--'True,' replied the industrious gardener,\n'and that is the very reason, the less one frets, the better.'\n\"I am sure, my dears, that I need not tell you the moral of this little\nfable, because I am _sure_ that you have all of you good sense enough to\nfind it out: but as you may like to hear it from me, I will tell it\nyou--_That the pleasantest reflection you can have of a misfortune is,\nthat you have been able, by your industry, to repair it._ And it is\nreally astonishing, my dear children,\" continued she, \"how many\nmischiefs might be _repaired_ by a little trouble and industry.\"\n\"_Admiration_ of worth, courage, genius, talent, and of the works of\nart, is the next of which,\" continued Mr. Willock, \"we have to speak.\n_Admiration_ of worth is, among good minds, very grateful, for they are\nalways pleased to find excellence; and in this country you may indulge\nthe passion at any time, by reading the works of great authors, such as\nLocke, Addison, Sir Richard Steel, Doctor Johnson, and others, wherein\nyou will have to admire an excellent moral, and a pure and elegant\nlanguage.\n\"_Admiration_ of courage is another pleasant sensation, though attended\nwith a portion of pain. It was this kind of _Admiration_ which was felt\nby Philip king of Macedon, when his son Alexander seized hold of the\nbridle of Bucephalus, who was so wild and unmanageable, that no one had\nbeen able to mount him, and softly letting fall his cloak, threw himself\nupon his back in one leap, and animating him with his voice, put him in\nfull speed, to the astonishment of every one present. Philip, with tears\nof joy and _Admiration_ in his eyes, exclaimed--'My son, seek a kingdom\nmore worthy of thee, for Macedon is below thy merit.'\n\"_Admiration_ of genius and talent may be often indulged. The many\ncurious pieces of mechanism that may be seen daily, are objects worthy\nof _admiration_; but perhaps the most extraordinary of any to a young\nmind is a ship, when it is considered, that within its space several\nhundreds of persons traverse immense oceans, and sail to places many\nthousand leagues distant.\"\n\"I should like very much to go on board a ship,\" said Henry, while his\nfather had paused a moment to take a pinch of snuff.\n\"I intend,\" answered Mr. Willock, \"that you and your brothers shall go\nto-morrow on board the Rainbow man of war, the captain of which is my\nparticular friend: and if you do, I think your faces will express\nsomething more than simple _Admiration_. Suppose we look at the next\npicture; will not your looks be more like it than this? for (said he, as\nhe turned over the leaf) it is\nADMIRATION with ASTONISHMENT.\n[Illustration]\n\"You may observe, that the motions which accompany this passion are more\nlively and stronger marked, the eyebrows more elevated, the eyes more\nopen, the eyeball further from the lower eyelid, and more steadily\nfixed; the mouth is more open; and all the parts in a much stronger\nemotion; but, lest you should be too much inclined to stare and gape, I\nwill tell you a story of two schoolfellows, which is\n_The History of Bill Vacant and Henry Hawk's-eye_.\n\"Bill Vacant and Henry Hawk's-eye were schoolfellows of much about the\nsame age. Henry Hawk's-eye was a clever, intelligent boy, who was always\nseeking after knowledge, and taking great pains to acquire it. When he\nsaw any thing new or curious, he was not contented with wishing that he\nknew what it was, but he always set to work seriously to find out every\nthing about it; and if it was a piece of mechanism, how it was made.\nBill Vacant, on the other hand, always looked as if he was very deeply\nengaged in thought, when the truth was, that he was not; all the time,\nthinking of any thing at all. Bill Vacant was always wondering; he would\nwonder two or three times a-day what a clock it was?--what he should\nhave for dinner?--whether it would be fine on the morrow?--whether he\nshould go to see his grandmother at Christmas? or something equally\nuninteresting. If he saw any curious piece of workmanship, he would\nwonder how it was made, but would be satisfied with wondering; his mouth\ntherefore was always wide open with _Astonishment_, but was never filled\nwith instruction, which he would not be at the pains to gather: his was\nnot '_The fond attentive gaze of young Astonishment_,' mentioned by the\npoet Akenside, who wrote a charming book, which you must read some day,\ncalled 'The Pleasures of the Imagination.' Bill Vacant was always\ngazing, it is true, but to very little purpose; he was not only\nignorant, but likely to continue so all his life; and so it turned out;\nfor Henry Hawk's-eye having reflected that his father was not rich, and\nthat he would have to get his own living in the world, bent his thoughts\ntowards a profession, and fixed upon the law. Henry was presently a\nstudent in the Temple, and paid so much attention to his studies, that\nhe very soon became much resorted to to draw pleadings; and it was not\nmany years before he made a handsome fortune. Bill Vacant, whose\nfriends also had nothing to give him, was all this time wondering what\nwould be the best line that he could embark in; but as he was ignorant\nof every thing, he found it so difficult to determine, that day\nsucceeded day in slothful idleness. One instant he would commence\nmerchant; the next he would go to sea; then he would volunteer his\nservices in the army; in either of which lines, if he had had\nperseverance, he might have in a measure succeeded. The truth was, that\npoor Bill Vacant was always wondering what would be the best for him,\nwhen, in fact, he had better have taken up any thing than have wondered\nany longer about it. However, unhappily for him, he continued wondering\nall his life; and when he was old and poor, all that he had to wonder at\nwas, that other people had succeeded in the world so much better than\nhimself.\n\"Such,\" my dear children, \"is the difference between _Admiration_, and\nthat void of thought which occasions us to wonder without a desire of\nimprovement. Never, therefore, lose your time in wondering; but the\ninstant you are at a loss to know any thing, inquire and study till you\nfind it out, and master it. You may sometimes be led wrong,\nnotwithstanding all your care; but do not grieve although you may; for a\nsteady sure friend, called Experience, will step in to make you full\namends.\"\nThere was now an interval between the entertainments Mr. Willock had\npromised his children, for tea and coffee were brought in, with fruit;\nwhen, after taking each a cup of tea, and some strawberries, the young\npeople retired to rest, highly gratified with the entertainment of the\nevening.\n_The Party to Weymouth._\nThe next day presented a fine clear sky, and the young people were told\nto get themselves in readiness to go in the barouche to Weymouth; but\nMrs. Willock being rather indisposed, was not of the party. There is not\nany thing more pleasant than the preparation in these cases; all was\nbustle and expectation. They were to go on board a ship--what a\ndelightful excursion!\nAt length the time arrived--they were at Weymouth--they saw the ships\nat anchor--nay more, they saw the king and royal party going on board\nthe yacht. The ships were manned; the water was as smooth as milk. Mr.\nWillock had taken care to carry with him, for the amusement of the young\npeople, the Passions of Le Brun, which he took out of his pocket as they\nwere going on board the Rainbow, in the captain's barge, that had been\nsent for them.\nHenry was delighted--\"Only, sir,\" said he to his father, \"look what a\nnumber of men in blue jackets and white trowsers are standing upon the\nsails!\"--\"Those people, my dear,\" said he, \"are our gallant defenders,\nour brave English tars; they do not stand, as you call it, on the sails,\nbut on the yards, to which the sails are fastened, or bent.\"--\"Dear\nsir,\" interrupted William, \"what beautiful boat is that?\"--\"That, my\ndear boy,\" said he, \"is the barge in which is our dear sovereign, King\nGeorge the Third. There he is!--do you not see him?--Here (said he,\nopening the book of Passions), look at this; this expresses the\nsentiment you ought to feel; it is\nVENERATION.\n[Illustration]\n\"_Veneration_ is (according to Le Brun) the result of admiration and\nesteem, when it has something for its object divine, beyond our\ncomprehension, or majestic in virtue. The face is modestly reclined; the\neyebrows bent down; the eyes almost shut and fixed, and the mouth\ngentle, humble, and full of respect. Who is it that must not feel the\npassion of _Veneration_, at the name even of our beloved sovereign,\neminent as he is in virtue, and mild and merciful as he is on the\nthrone? No wild acts of ambition, no base perfidy, no lawless stretch of\npower, has dishonoured his reign. He is the father of his people, and he\nhas the affection and _Veneration_ of every good man.\"\nThe barge now approached the side of the ship, which was manned, that\nis, the seamen stood on each side to hand the side-ropes (which were\ncovered with red baize) to the company; and Mr. Willock was received on\nthe quarter-deck by captain Manly, who commanded the Rainbow.\n_A Description of a Man of War._\nCaptain Manly, who was a very well-bred man, received his guests with\ngreat politeness, and gratified their curiosity by taking them all over\nthe ship. He showed them the fore-castle, which is the fore part of the\ndeck; the main deck, the gally-fire, and the coppers wherein the\nsailors' dinner is cooked; from thence he took them down the hatchways,\nto show them the midshipmens' births; and between decks, where the\nhammocks are slung, and the cable tiers, where the cables which hold the\nship are coiled, or as you would call it, laid round; and the\nbread-room, where the provisions are served out.\nCaptain Manly next took his visitors into his own cabin. Some\nrefreshment was prepared, and among other things, he gave them some real\nsalt junk, that is, salt beef, and some sea biscuit instead of white\nbread, which the sailors, with great contempt, call _soft tommy_. He\ngave them also some grog, as well as wine. They then returned to the\nquarter-deck, when John, William and Henry amused themselves with the\nyoung midshipmen, some of whom were old schoolfellows, and showed them\nhow to go aloft up the shrouds (called by the landsmen rope-ladders)\ninto the mizen-top, whither they followed them a little way, but did not\nlike climbing to get over the top rim, nor did they choose to go through\n_lubber's hole_, which is a way of more safety, used by landsmen, for\nfear they should be laughed at. Henry, however, expressed a great\ninclination to go to sea; and on hearing captain Manly relate to his\nfather the gallant achievements of Lord Nelson, his eyes sparkled with\nthe love of glory. Captain Manly showed his guests a picture of his\ngallant friend; and the passion of _Veneration_ was again visible in\nevery face.\nOne of the quarter-masters (who are old seamen, and have the care of the\nquarter-deck, and whose duty it is to call the officers to their watch,\nto turn the hour-glass, and go to the belfry to pull the bell-rope) was\nvery attentive to the young gentlemen, and took them forward, where some\nof the sailors were dancing hornpipes on the main deck, to the music of\na broken fiddle, played by an old black fidler. The young people gave\nthe quarter-master (whom the sailors called Old Spun-yarn) some money to\ndrink their healths; and he, in return, got one of the boys who waited\non the midshipmen to go aloft, and stand upon the truck of the\ntop-gallant-mast-head, which is at the very greatest height of the\nmasts, where he stood on a space not larger than the top part of a dumb\nwaiter, and drew in the pendant, and let it out again at pleasure. John\nand William shuddered to see him at such a tremendous height; but Henry\nseemed very much delighted at the boy's activity.\nThe boat was now manned, at the request of Mr. Willock, to put them on\nshore; but as the wind had sprung up, the water had got rather rough;\nand before they had rowed far, a strong gale came on, when the boat's\ncrew were obliged to pull very hard to make the shore; and as the tide\nrun strong, they were some hours before they could fetch, that is, reach\nthe pier. During their passage to shore, the boat shipped several seas,\nand the young people began to be a little frightened, except Henry, who\nseemed more stout-hearted than any of the rest. Mr. Willock, for his\npart, was only uneasy on account of the delay it occasioned, and the\napprehensions which would occur to the mind of his good lady. At length,\nhowever, they were all landed safe on shore; and after taking a glass of\nwine, Mr. Willock set out for home, where he arrived late at night. It\nhad now become quite tempestuous, and Mrs. Willock and her little\ndaughters were waiting with the most painful anxiety. Presently,\nhowever, the carriage was heard at a distance on the road, and the gates\nwere thrown open by the servants, before the bells could be rung. Mrs.\nWillock, who was a most affectionate mother, ran into the hall to meet\nand embrace her children; and Caroline and Louisa ran to kiss their\nbrothers, followed by all the servants in the house. The family were now\nall together, in the large parlour, where was a good fire, and all the\ncomforts of home prepared for the travellers. When they were a little\ncomposed and refreshed, Mr. Willock drew from his pocket the Passions,\nand asked the young people if, when they came in, they had not seen a\nface like the one he shewed them? when they one and all cried out, that\nit was mamma: the truth was, that it was the passion of\nRAPTURE.\n[Illustration]\n\"Yes, indeed,\" said Mr. Willock, \"it was the face of your dear mamma,\nand never better expressed; full of gratitude to God, and veneration for\nthat Almighty providence which conducted you home in safety, her eyes\nwere directed towards heaven, her mouth was only opened to breathe a\nprayer of thankfulness, and the two corners were a little turned up with\nan expression of joy.\n\"Rapture, my dear children,\" said Mr. Willock, \"is the most extatic of\nthe passions; it is a sentiment full of love, joy, esteem, and\nveneration; it is an excess of pleasure, and is frequently too much\nto be borne; when so, it is relieved by tears; you will feel it\nsensibly, if ever you live to have children.\n\"By the _Rapture_ your dear mother shewed at your safe return, you may\ndo more than guess at how much she must love you; you will, I am sure,\nbe grateful for so much tenderness and affection, and never do any thing\nthat can give her pain. Thank God that we are once more happy together;\nand let us go to our beds full of that sentiment, and to-morrow morning,\nat breakfast, you shall entertain your mamma with an account of your\nvoyage.\"\nThe next morning, at breakfast, our happy domestic party met together,\nrefreshed, by undisturbed rest, the repose of love and peace.\nHenry related to his mamma all the particulars of their naval excursion\nthe day before, which he concluded by saying, that he should like very\nmuch to go to sea, when Mr. Willock mildly interrupted him--\"My dear\nHenry,\" said he, \"do not make your mamma uneasy by saying so. If it is\nproper and suitable to the views in life which we have for you, your\ninclination will be studied; and if it is not, I am sure that you have\ntoo much good sense, as well as love for your parents, to wish for any\nthing that they might disapprove.\"--Henry blushed a little, and said,\n\"Indeed, sir, I will never think of any thing that you or my mamma may\ndisapprove.\"--\"That is spoken like a very good and sensible boy,\"\nanswered Mr. Willock: \"but,\" said he, \"suppose that we return to the\nPassions of Le Brun, and see whether his faces will speak (for faces\noften do speak by strong expressions of the features) on the subject.\"\nHe opened the book, which lay on the table, and the first portrait which\npresented itself was\nDESIRE.\n[Illustration]\n\"Dear me! how sharp the man looks!\" said Henry.--\"Yes,\" cried Mr.\nWillock, \"you will observe that this passion brings the eyebrows close\ntogether, and forwards the eyes, which are more open than ordinary; the\neyeball is inflamed, and places itself in the middle of the eye; the\nnostrils rise up, and are contracted towards the eyes; the mouth half\nopens, and the spirits being in motion, give a glowing colour. _Desire_\nis most frequently unreasonable; it often pants after things which are\nimproper, or hurtful to itself. Just now, when you expressed such an\nardent wish to go to sea, your face had all the expression of\n_Desire_.--Now, my dear Henry, we should never desire any thing, without\ndue consideration of its value, or of the propriety of having it as we\nwish; for instance, you should have thought, 'It cannot matter much to\nme whether I spend my days on board of a ship, or on shore among my\nfriends; whether I am brought up to the law, or whether I go into the\narmy; each of these situations have their advantages and their honours;\nthey have, too, their labours and disappointments. I know that my\nparents would sooner study my inclinations than their own: but then they\ndo not decide from inclination; they are wiser, and have more experience\nthan me, and they judge coolly, and without _Desire_, what would be most\nfitting for me, according to all the circumstances of my education, the\nshew of my talents, and the fortune I may have to set out with in life.\nIt is the novelty of a sea life which gives it attraction; but novelty\nsoon ceases to engage, and decreases in value, the longer we make our\nvisit to it; and then we afterwards wish that we had attended to\nsomething better for us, or more adapted to our situation.'\n\"There are, however, many praiseworthy objects of _desire_, such as\n\"A _Desire_ to please God.\n\"A _Desire_ to improve in learning.\n\"A _Desire_ to excel in virtue or science, properly called emulation.\n\"The first of these ought to be the great object of our lives: the\nsecond will be a lasting delight and profit to us; it will always secure\nus a portion of respect in the world, and will stay by us, though by\nmisfortune we should be stripped of all, and left to work for our bread:\nthe third is a passion which makes the great man and the hero; it made\nsuch a statesman as Charles Fox, of whom you have heard speak, and such\na hero as Lord Nelson.\n\"With these desires in your breast, poverty will stand no chance of\nkeeping you under. The world, my dear children, is like a market-place,\nwhere many different persons bring their wares, their industry, and\ntheir trinkets for sale. Those who have the best articles, or who are\nthe best workmen, will find the readiest and most certain sale and\nprofit or employ; those who have more humble talents, or wares of a\nworse quality, are obliged to wait longer, and sell for less; and such\nas have only trinkets to offer, find customers only by chance, and are\nnever sure of a market. Last of all, the lazy beggar, who only comes\ninto the market-place in expectation of getting a subsistence from the\nmore industrious, as he has nothing to offer in exchange, meets little\nor no attention, and hears only the just reproof of 'Why don't you get\nsome work to do?'\n\"There are several objects of _Desire_ that must never be entertained,\nand which are very bad and wicked; among these are\n\"The _Desire_ of wealth, when unreasonable or unconscionable, called\nAvarice.\n\"The _Desire_ of obtaining any advantage of another unfairly, called in\nthe scripture, coveting our neighbours' goods.\n\"The _Desire_ of being great or ambitious.\n\"There are others, which are those forbidden by the Ten Commandments,\nand of which I need not speak.\n\"The _Desire_ of wealth, called Avarice, is a most extraordinary\npassion, as it defeats the very end which it wishes to produce, an\nenjoyment of the rational pleasures and comforts of life; for the miser\nlays up hoard upon hoard, and still remains unsatisfied; he punishes\nhimself continually; he submits to the derision, the reproaches, and\ncontempt of the world; he has no enjoyments, no friends; and, besides,\nhe suffers constant dread and apprehension of being robbed of his\nguineas: he suspects every body. Such a character we have in\n_The Story of Old Alvarus, the Miser._\n\"Alvarus was an old miser, who constantly kept his guineas in a bag,\nwhich he used to hide in the most secret place he could find in his\napartments.\n\"Alvarus had been so careful to lay by his store where no person would\nbe able to find it and rob him of it, that he _forgot_ where he had put\nit himself.\n\"Alvarus searched every hole and corner that he could think of, without\nsuccess: the bag was not to be found; but he knew that no one could have\ntaken it from him, for not a creature had entered the house. Alvarus\nfumed and fretted himself ill; he went to his bed alone and\ndisconsolate, for very few cared for Alvarus.\n\"At length it happened that some one knocked at the door of his hut;\nAlvarus could not rise to open it; but he called out, 'Whoever you are,\nlift up the latch and come in, for I am sick.' It was his little nephew\nNicholas, whose father and mother were poor industrious people, and who\nhad often asked Alvarus to spare them a trifle, to put them into some\nlittle way of business, to make their way in the world; but he had\nalways refused them: he would not part with a sixpence.\n\"The father and mother of Nicholas had, nevertheless, sent him to\ninquire after the health of his uncle: he was a fine little boy, with\nthe colour of the carnation upon his cheeks, and with a brave open\ncountenance.\n\"The old man surveyed him from head to foot. 'What, Nicholas,' cried he,\n'is it you? How are your father and mother? I am ill, Nicholas, very\nill.'\n\"Nicholas asked if he could do any thing for his uncle? Alvarus began to\nreflect, 'I might as well,' said he to himself, 'have no wealth, if I am\nto suffer illness without help or relief, and I shall perhaps die for\nwant of medical assistance; yet who can I trust to seek for this money?'\nHe looked again at Nicholas; he saw honesty in his face--'This boy,'\nsaid he, 'knows nothing of the world. I think that I need not be afraid\nto trust him. Nicholas, my dear Nicholas,' said he, 'I wish that you\nwould seek for an old bag, which you will find in some corner or other;\nit is heavy, but what is in it is not of _much use_ to any body, and you\nmust not look into it upon any account.' Nicholas answered in a very\nartless manner, that he would not look into it for the world, if his\nuncle forbid it. 'Well then,' said Alvarus, 'go and look all about, and\nin every corner, as I have occasion for it.'\n\"Nicholas, who was a very clever and persevering lad, searched place\nafter place, until at length, in a dark hole under the sink, he found\nthe bag, and carried it immediately to his uncle. Alvarus was quite\ndelighted, when he saw the bag unopened--'That is a good boy,' said he;\n'now then go for the doctor, and tell him to come to me, for that I am\nvery sick indeed.'\n\"Nicholas ran all the way for the doctor, and when he returned, it was\nbut reasonable to expect that old Alvarus would have given him a trifle\nof money; he however contented himself with giving him only thanks; and\nNicholas was going home when the doctor entered.\n\"The doctor felt the miser's pulse, and found him in a very bad way--\n'I am afraid it is too late,' said he, 'I should have been sent for\nbefore.' He moreover told Nicholas that his uncle could not be left.\nNicholas therefore promised to return, as soon as he had made his father\nand mother acquainted with the situation he had left him in; but the\nmiser absolutely forbid him to bring them with him.\n\"Alvarus grew worse; the doctor gave him medicines, but in vain; when he\nthought it proper to tell him, that there were no hopes of his recovery,\nand advised him to settle his affairs without delay.\n\"Alvarus was very much affected at this news--'What,' said he, 'have I\nbeen laying up hoard upon hoard only to leave it behind me? what\nenjoyment have I had? what delight has this world afforded me? I have\nbeen poor in the midst of riches, and have starved in abundance. I might\nhave been happy myself, and I might have made others happy; I have\nneglected the opportunity; and before I have tasted refreshment, I\nexpire on my journey.'\n\"The doctor asked the old miser again about his affairs--'If I die,'\nsaid he, 'I leave what little I have to this boy, my nephew Nicholas.'\nThe doctor took his leave, and Alvarus addressed his nephew as\nfollows:--'Nicholas,' said he, 'take care of this bag for me; I shall\nfall asleep presently, for I feel heavy; there is not any thing worth\nhaving in it; _it is full of rubbish_; nevertheless, some people would\nbe base enough to wish to take it from me.'\n\"Alvarus went into a sleep, from which he never awoke again--Nicholas\ncalled to him--he did not answer. Nicholas run for his father and\nmother--they arrived, but the miser was no more. Nicholas told them the\nstory of the bag, which they opened, and found full of guineas. The\ndoctor confirmed the story of Nicholas, and that the property was his\nright. The father and mother of Nicholas shed tears at the death of\nAlvarus; nevertheless they said, 'How good and wonderful is Providence!\nIt appeared only by chance that our son should happen to go on that day\nto inquire after his uncle, who had then mislaid his treasure.\nProvidence has put it in its proper channel. Let us bury Alvarus with\nrespect, and mourn not so much that he is dead, as that when living, he\nhad never enjoyed life.'\n\"Nicholas succeeded to the wealth of his uncle, which was improved by\nthe industry and care of his parents; and from being a poor lad,\nNicholas is now an opulent farmer.\"\n\"That old miser was a very foolish old man,\" said William, as soon as\nMr. Willock had concluded the story. \"Certainly he was,\" answered Mr.\nWillock; \"he might have made himself very comfortable, and yet have laid\nby sufficient to keep him far from the dangers of want in his old age;\nand that shows, my dear children, the difference between prudence or\neconomy, and avarice:--prudence allows all reasonable enjoyments, but no\nextravagance or waste; and as the articles of plain wholesome food,\nrefreshing drink, and neat decent cloathing, do not require any great\nsacrifice of money, and are proper for us, and as good management makes\nus as frugal as possible, we cannot be much the poorer for those\nreasonable indulgences; and all beyond, it is wise and necessary to lay\nby; out of which, we ought, nevertheless, to spare a portion, such as we\ncan afford; to the distrest. It is then that our prudent hours are blest\nby Providence, and the motive approved by the same Almighty who has\ntaught the ant to provide for winter; and indeed old age, my dear\nchildren, may properly be called the winter of life.\n\"We will now,\" said Mr. Willock, \"consider the nature of the _Desire_ by\nwhich men wish to obtain any thing unfairly, or what is called coveting\nour neighbours' goods.--There is not any _Desire_ that can be more base\nor wicked than this, and it leads to the greatest crimes; if ever you\nfeel it in your bosoms, which I trust you never will, check it, my dear\nchildren, as being base, mean, unfair, unjust, and beneath your natures;\nand be assured, that it is a _Desire_ which in the end will never have\nsuccess, as it is contrary to the commands of God, and below the honour\nand dignity of the human character. Your dear mamma can relate to you a\nvery pretty story of the ill-success of such a _desire_, as well as of\nthe folly of being too good-natured.\" Mrs. Willock, finding the eyes of\nall her little family immediately turned towards her, began as follows:\n_The Story of the Two Merchants and the Black Pebble._\n\"In the city of Peristan, which is a province of Cashmeer, in Hindostan,\nlived a merchant, named Baizeed; he was a very good young man, but was\nso generous and prodigal of his money, and so very good-natured, that\nany body might get it from him; and the patrimony he had received from\nhis father was almost spent. As Baizeed was walking one day through the\nstreets of Peristan, he met an old man, with a small bag in his hand,\nwho accosted him, and asked if he would choose to buy any pearls or\nprecious stones? Baizeed had the curiosity or _desire_ to look at them;\nand the old merchant seated himself under the portico of a house, where\nhe displayed his goods. Baizeed looked at them one by one; but his\nattention was chiefly taken up with a small black pebble, which had on\nit some marks of gold, resembling in form the rays of the sun. Baizeed\ninquired particularly about this stone, which the merchant told him was\nof considerable value, though it only appeared as a common black pebble;\nthat it was a talisman, invented by the magician Mahoud; and that in all\ncases of extremity or danger, it would give the owner the most faithful\ncounsel of the good genii. Baizeed, on this, laid the pebble down,\ngiving up all thoughts of purchasing it, as he supposed its price to be\ninfinitely out of his reach. \"I do not wish to inhance the value of the\npebble,\" said the old man; \"I only ask fifty gold mohurs for it.\"\nBaizeed assured him that he could not afford to give him half that money\nfor it, and was going away, when the old diamond merchant stopt\nhim--\"Well,\" said he to Baizeed, \"as you have taken such a mighty fancy\nto the pebble, you shall be welcome to have it on credit, and pay me\nwhen you may be able.\" Baizeed on this thanked the old man as politely\nas he could, and accepted the stone from his hands, when the old\nmerchant explained to him some characters which were on it, in the\nHindoo language, and formed the following sentence--'_The rays of\nwisdom._'\n\"Baizeed, on his return home, shewed the pebble to his wife Aseecha,\nand was very eager to invite all his friends to shew them also the\npurchase he had been so lucky as to make, and invited them to a feast\nfor that purpose. When Baizeed's friends were met together, one examined\nit carefully, another liked its curious appearance, and a third wished\nhim to make an immediate experiment of its virtues. Baizeed was not long\nwaiting an opportunity. One of his neighbours being engaged in a\nlawsuit, was very anxious to know what he should do in the affair, and\nintreated him to try the effect of the magic pebble.\n\"Baizeed took a small flint in his hand, and, upon striking it against\nthe stone, at the first blow, the liquid fire came forth from it, and\nrunning upon the ground, immediately formed the sentence of '_Truth_.'\n\"The counsel which the talisman gave was attended to by the neighbour of\nBaizeed, and by following which, he got well through his difficulty.\n\"Numerous were the applications Baizeed received from different persons\nto lend them the black pebble; and all his friends were so kind, and\nappeared so grateful, that he could not find it in his heart to refuse\nthem; but what was the most extraordinary was, that although Baizeed was\nthoroughly sensible of the virtues of the pebble, he scarcely ever made\nuse of it himself, but it was always at the service of others, without\nany return or recompence.\n\"In about three or four years after Baizeed had come into possession of\nthe pebble, what with neglecting his own affairs, and attending to the\nfrequent solicitations of others about theirs, Baizeed began to find\nhimself very much reduced in circumstances; and in addition to this\nfolly of attempting to oblige every body, he was naturally of a gay and\ncheerful disposition, and was constantly giving entertainments, for the\nsake of having the society of his friends.\n\"Among others who had the free use of the talisman, was a neighbour of\nBaizeed's, named Daoud, who had always been welcome to his house, and\nwho he had done every thing to serve; in short, Daoud had as much use of\nthe pebble as himself; he had it upon every occasion he wished, and\nalways smiled so graciously, and professed so much friendship to\nBaizeed, that it was impossible to refuse him.\n\"Baizeed's wife Aseecha loved her husband very much, and frequently\nentreated him to be more careful of the valuable treasure he had, and to\nturn the magic pebble to advantage; but unhappily he neglected her\ncounsel; and at length, what with the waste of time, and seeing company\nto show off the talisman, his situation became desperate; when he\nthought it best to call on his friend Daoud, to explain to him his\ncircumstances, and to consult what was best to be done, as he was afraid\nhis creditors would take the pebble from him. Daoud begged him not to\ndespond, and assured him that he would take care of the talisman, if he\nwas afraid of any mischief happening to him. Baizeed put the stone in\nhis hands, requiring him, in the most solemn manner, to make use of it\nfor his wife and family; offering him, at the same time, a reasonable\nshare of that valuable treasure for his trouble.\n\"Daoud promised to do according to the wishes of Baizeed, who retired to\na small village near the fountain of Shookroach, whose waters bestow\npeace, leaving Daoud in possession of the talisman.\n\"Baizeed waited many days patiently, in hopes of seeing his friend Daoud\nwith a supply of money, for his wife Aseecha was very distressed, and\nhis children had had nothing to live upon but a small bag of rice and a\nfew dried fishes, which were almost gone. Daoud, however, never came\nnear Baizeed; and presently he was informed that he had got into his\nhouse, and had made himself acquainted with all his friends and\ncreditors, and that he was turning the talisman to his own advantage\nsolely. Baizeed began now to blame his folly, for having intrusted the\nonly valuable he had left to so sordid a wretch.\n\"Baizeed went to Daoud, to complain of his ill treatment; but that\nwicked wretch insisted he owed him more money than the pebble was worth;\nand Baizeed was too poor to get redress.\n\"At length, when Baizeed had given himself up to despair, and was\nsitting at his door in a pensive attitude, he saw the old diamond\nmerchant who sold him the pebble approach. Baizeed was quite distressed\nwhat he should say to him; but thought, very properly, that the truth\nwas the best; he therefore told him the whole story of his imprudence;\n'Well,' cried the old man, 'you have suffered sufficiently for your\ngood-nature; though you have lost the talisman by your folly, the good\n[A]Bramah will not punish you too severely. Come with me, and we will go\ndisguised as two [B]Calenders to the house of Daoud.'\n[A] The Eastern name for God.\n[B] Wandering Mahometan monks.\n\"Baizeed prepared to follow the old man; and at length having procured\nthe dresses of Calenders, they set out on their journey, and arrived at\nthe house of Daoud, as he was seated at the head of his table, feasting\nwith the great men of Peristan. The Calenders, according to the custom\nin the East, were invited to take refreshment; and Baizeed seated\nhimself at the lower end of the table of his perfidious friend.\n\"After dinner, Daoud began to speak of the virtues of the talisman; and\nthe Viceroy of the Sultan Shahabeddeen, who was present, was desirous\nthat he should display its wonders before him. Daoud called for the\npebble, and struck it with the flint; but the liquid flame did not issue\nfrom it; he tried again and again; but it was all in vain. The Viceroy,\nwho considered that Daoud had imposed upon him, was highly incensed;\nand ordered his black eunuchs, who were in waiting, to inflict the\npunishment of the bowstring.--It was in vain that he supplicated; the\nViceroy commanded that he should die, unless he could, within ten\nminutes, produce the sentence of truth from the talisman. Daoud\nattempted once more, but all was fruitless, when the old man took up the\npebble, and striking it with the flint, the flame immediately issued,\nand formed a sentence on the ground--'_I am useless to the wicked._'\n\"On this, the Viceroy, who was the more enraged, demanded to know of\nDaoud the history of the talisman, and how he came by it? That wicked\nwretch, however, told a lie to excuse himself.\n\"The Viceroy was so dissatisfied with the answers of Daoud, that he\ndemanded of the old Calender that he should obtain again the sentence of\ntruth: The old man obeyed, when the talisman produced the words--'_The\nsaying of Daoud is not true; I belong to Baizeed._'\nBaizeed, at the desire of the old man, now threw off the dress of the\nCalender, and confronted the wicked Daoud, who being unable to say a\nword in his defence, was instantly strangled by the eunuchs.\n\"The Viceroy ordered the pebble to be restored to Baizeed, who returned\nhome, transported with joy at having found his precious talisman.\n\"As soon as Baizeed entered the door of his house, he endeavoured to\nobtain the sentence of wisdom from the magic pebble; but it only\nproduced the words--'_I am useless to the imprudent_.'\n\"Baizeed was again in anguish and despair, when the old man entered, and\ntold him that the virtue of the talisman would not return to it again\nuntil he had, by hard labour, rubbed the pebble so bright, that the rays\nwhich had disappeared should again become visible. Baizeed bore this\ndisappointment very patiently, and returned home to his wife Aseecha,\nwhen he set to work every day rubbing the pebble, but no rays appeared.\nAt length, after a little time, he began just to see a glimpse of them,\nand by persevering, they were once more restored. Baizeed now summoned\nhis friends to a feast, at which they appeared again very readily; but\nwhen they required the counsel of the talisman, Baizeed demanded from\nthem a recompence for the benefit they would receive; in consequence of\nwhich, he got several large sums of money; and having found the old man,\noffered to pay him the fifty gold mohurs, when the old merchant said, 'I\nam richly repaid by your being sensible of the value of the pebble. My\nson, the mighty Bramah is well pleased when he observes in his children\nan ingenuous heart, and kind disposition; but dangerous even is the love\nof our fellow creatures, if we are weak enough to yield to the sweet\nvoice of deceit. Baizeed was tried with the magic pebble, and he\nsquandered away its blessings. The wicked Daoud, whose imagination was\nat work to obtain the goods of Baizeed, was made the instrument for\npunishing thy weakness; but he was to become an example also, that vice\nnever prospers. The magic pebble lost its power in his hands, and the\nobject of his covetousness was the cause of his death.'\n\"As the old man spoke, Baizeed observed that rays of celestial flame\nsurrounded his head, and that his garment was changed into a robe of the\npurest white. The place was filled with the fragrance of myrrh, aloes,\nsandal-wood, the jessamine flower and the rose.\n\"Baizeed fell prostrate on his face; it was the good genius Zemrud, who\nhad appeared as the old merchant. 'Blessed,' said he, 'are the good, and\npowerful are those who trust in Bramah.' With these words the genius\ndisappeared, and Baizeed returned home to his faithful Aseecha,\nsatisfied of the goodness of Providence, and resolved never again to\nforfeit the blessings of the talisman.\"\n\"The _desire_ of being great, or what is called ambition, is laudable,\nas long as the means resorted to to satisfy it are just and fair, and it\nis then a blessing; but becomes a curse, the instant we have recourse to\nbase or improper means.--But,\" said Mr. Willock, \"let us see what is the\nnext picture. What have we here?\"\n\"It is a very pleasant face,\" said John.--\"It is,\" said Mr. Willock,\nJOY with TRANQUILLITY.\n[Illustration]\n\"You will observe here, that very little alteration is remarked in the\nface of those who feel within themselves the sweetness of _Joy_. The\nforehead is serene; the eyebrows without motion, elevated in the middle;\nthe eye pretty open, and with a laughing air; the eyeball lively and\nshining; the corners of the mouth turn up a little; the complexion\nlively; the cheeks and lips red.\n\"_Joy_ is a delightful sensation, and gives health to the body as well\nas to the mind; when we feel joyful, with what alacrity, what spirit, do\nwe move and act! It is _Joy_ that you taste of, when the time arrives\nfor you to return home from school, to see your friends in vacation.\nWhen _Joy_ is felt, the mind is occupied with every thing that is\npleasant; all care is for the time obliterated from your recollection;\nyou jump, and dance, and sing, and spring about like young fawns, from\nplace to place. But this is not _Joy with Tranquillity_, like that in\nthe picture. _Joy with Tranquillity_ is more lasting, and is less\nviolent. I will attempt to describe the passion to you by an example.\n_The Story of Matthieu and Gerrard, the two Fishermen, who each found a\ntreasure._\n\"Two fishermen, named Matthieu and Gerrard, who lived in a small village\nnear the Mediterranean, and who had each of them large families, and\nwere very poor, were out one day drawing their nets, when one of them,\nGerrard, called out to the other, that he had drawn ashore a small\ncasket, which was extremely heavy; and he begged the other to assist him\nto force it open, when he found it full of precious stones, carefully\ninclosed in cotton. The fisherman who had found the treasure, very\nfairly and justly told the other that he should go shares; and\noverjoyed, ran home directly to his wife, to tell her the good news. The\nother fisherman, who was older and more careful, staid to put his nets\nin order before he followed, and was very kindly doing the same office\nfor his friend, when he discovered another casket among the meshes of\nthe net, which his comrade had overlooked, full of the like treasure,\nand which he put in his pocket.\n\"When the old fisherman returned to the village, which was no great way\nfrom the sea-shore, he found the house of his comrade surrounded by\npeople. In short, poor Gerrard's rapture had occasioned him to tell\nevery creature he met of his good fortune, and they had followed him in\na mass. One gave him a piece of advice; another put in a claim for\nfavour; a third offered to get him a market for the diamonds of a\nfriend. In short, he was almost torn to pieces by the officious kindness\nof his neighbours; and in his perplexity, he sold his treasure for less\nthan half its value, to an old Jew, who, on hearing the news, had\nhastened all the way from Marseilles to the spot, to make a good\nbargain.\n\"The old fisherman said nothing about his luck until night, when he was\nat supper with his wife; and she being a prudent woman, though she felt\na great deal of joy that her dear children would be better cloathed and\nfed, yet it was _Joy with Tranquillity_. They neither of them suffered\ntheir good success to run away with their reason. It was therefore\ndetermined between themselves, that Matthieu should go the next day to\nMarseilles, where dwelt a respectable Armenian merchant, and get a fair\nprice from him for the precious stones he had had the luck to find.\n\"The next day, the old fisherman set out on his journey, without saying\na word to any body, and returned home laden with louis d'ors, in\naddition to the small sum which was the moiety of what the other\nfisherman had honestly shared with him.\n\"In a very few months it happened, that the younger fisherman, Gerrard,\nowing to his excess of joy, which made him insensible of what he was\nabout, and the folly of his young wife, who spent a great deal in dress,\nwhile he was giving, lending, and throwing away his money, was reduced\nat length to poverty, and had nothing left to do but to take to business\nagain.\n\"He was lamenting one morning not having sufficient to purchase nets,\nand was mending the old ones to go out a fishing, when his neighbour\nMatthieu came to the gate. 'I thought,' cried he, 'that you had left off\nfishing, and that you lived upon the interest of the money you got for\nyour pearls and diamonds; or, perhaps, you are going out for\npleasure.'--'Alas,' cried Gerrard, 'it is not so; I have given away and\nspent all that I had.'--'Well, but,' said he, 'those you have done\nservice to will never let you want a little money to purchase nets;\nthey have had plenty from you.'--'I have but little hopes of them,'\nanswered Gerrard.--'Well,' said the old fisherman, 'at any rate, give\nthem the trial; invite all these your neighbours and friends to a feast,\nand after they have regaled themselves, I will open the whole business\nof your necessities, and ask them to subscribe to put you into business\nagain.' Gerrard followed the advice of his neighbour, and a feast was\nprepared, at which every one took care to be present. After dinner was\nover, the old fisherman opened the business, and asked each of them to\nsubscribe a something; but they had all of them an excuse ready. 'Well,'\ncried he, 'in that case, I must do all by myself,' when he pulled out\ntwo large bags full of louis d'ors, which he opened before them, and\nplaced one of them before Gerrard. 'Now, sirs,' said Matthieu, turning\nto the guests, 'we will not trouble you any further; _we shall not want\nyour assistance to count them out this time_.'\n\"The guests departed one after another, not a little chagrined at this\nunexpected turn; and Matthieu explained to Gerrard that the money was\nhis right; that he had kept it for him, that it might not fall into such\nbad hands as his former treasure. All now was joy, but it was _Joy with\nTranquillity_; and Gerrard, delighted with the wisdom, as well as with\nthe honesty of his friend, begged him to keep it for him, and that he\nwould draw for what he might have occasion.\n\"Matthieu and Gerrard continued neighbours and friends; their little\nfortunes increased; and at length their children intermarried, to the\nsatisfaction of the old people, who, undisturbed by any excess of\npassion, felt only _Joy with tranquillity_.\"\n\"Oh dear! what a funny face!\" cried Henry, as Mr. Willock turned over\nthe leaf.\n\"It is, my dear,\" said he, \"the face of\nLAUGHTER.\n[Illustration]\n\"Laughter is produced by joy mixed with surprise, the eyebrows rise\ntowards the middle of the eye, and bend down towards the side of the\nnose. The eyes are almost shut, and sometimes appear wet, or shed\ntears, which make no alteration in the face. The mouth, half open, shews\nthe teeth; the corners of the mouth drawn back, cause a wrinkle in the\ncheeks, which appear so swelled as in some measure to hide the eyes; the\nnostrils are open, and all the face is of a red colour. Laughter is at\nall times ungraceful, therefore you will observe, that vulgar people are\nmost addicted to it: well-bred persons manage this passion better; they\nseldom do any thing more than smile. Yet at times, it will happen that\nsomething we meet with is so truly ridiculous or comical, that we cannot\nby any means help laughing. There are, however, some persons who are so\nmuch of idiots, that they will laugh at the most trifling thing in the\nworld; of this description were\n_The Family of the Gobblegruels._\n\"Lord Gobblegruel, who was very rich, had arrived at that title purely\nby having done some service to the government as a contractor. His\nlordship had but very few ideas beyond a common sum in arithmetic. My\nlady Gobblegruel was just as ignorant, only much more proud and\naffected, though, to tell the honest truth, she was originally his\nlordship's father's cook.\n\"There was a numerous family of them. There was his lordship, the right\nhonourable lady Gobblegruel, the honourable Master Thomas Gobblegruel,\nand the honourable Miss Boadicea Gobblegruel.\nYou will wonder, my dear children, that there should be such characters\nas these among persons of rank; and the truth is, that, generally\nspeaking, in this country, persons of rank are persons of education, of\ngood sense, and of elegant and refined manners; yet here and there, up\nstarts a peer without politeness, and a baron without brains.\n\"To proceed then--the honourable master Gobblegruel was what some coarse\npeople would have called a _natural_; at any rate, he most certainly was\na _natural curiosity_. Master Gobblegruel's whole pleasure and\nemployment was driving pigs: and to be sure, no salesman in Smithfield\nmarket understood pigs better; he could tell you whether a pig with a\ncurly tail was better than a pig who had not a curly tail, or than one\nthat had no tail at all; but what was a more excellent accomplishment in\nour little master was, that he could squeak as naturally as that animal;\nand which species of entertainment being according to the taste of the\nfamily, he was often called upon by the right honourable lady\nGobblegruel to perform for the amusement of the right honourable lord\nGobblegruel in the drawing room. (Henry could scarcely refrain from\nlaughing).\n\"Master Gobblegruel was not only one of the greatest idiots, but also\none of the greatest gluttons in the world; he was formed very much like\na pig himself--I mean one that was well fattened; for he was nearly as\nthick as he was long; his cheeks were so plump and round, that they\nalmost hid his eyes, which were very small; but master Gobblegruel had\nanother extraordinary accomplishment--he could perform Punch to the\nlife, which he used to do in the housekeeper's room, to great audiences\nof the servants, and with prodigious applause. It was really very\namusing to see the son of a nobleman with a short stick in his hand,\nknocking, as he pretended, his wife Joan on the head, squeaking _toote_,\n_toote_, _toote_, and nodding and winking exactly like his famed\noriginal.--(Henry could not resist _Laughter_ any longer).\n\"The honourable master Gobblegruel was so ungraceful at table, that he\ndisgusted every body; you might see him take up the bone of a fowl,\nwhich he would gnaw and suck with so much avidity, that the grease\nwould run down the sides of his mouth, into which he would also\nconstantly put his knife instead of his fork; and when he drank, you\nmight see the greater part of his face through the glass.\n\"One day in particular, master Gobblegruel made a more than commonly\nridiculous figure; he had got the end of a drumstick of a fowl in his\nmouth, which upon being reminded by some person present was vulgar, he\ntransfixed immediately between his teeth, sitting bolt upright, and\ngrinning like his honourable father's pug-dog, to the infinite amusement\nof all the servants. The young gentleman would not however part with the\nbone. (Henry burst into a fit of _Laughter_.)\n\"I must now,\" said Mr. Willock, \"for the benefit of the young ladies,\ndescribe the honourable Miss Boadicea Gobblegruel, who in shape and\nfigure was the counterpart of her honourable brother.\n\"Miss Boadicea never looked at any thing; she always stared; she was\nexcessively vulgar, and was ignorant, in spite of education. She was,\ntoo, always laughing; and when she did laugh, she might be heard from\nthe drawing-room into the kitchen; nor was there half a note difference\nbetween the laugh of Miss Boadicea and the laugh of the cook-maid. Miss\nBoadicea was nearly as coarse in her manners as her brother, but much\nmore ill-natured and satirical. Master Gobblegruel would not offend any\nbody, unless they spoke against pigs; and Boadicea had a constant\nantipathy to merit in distress, or meanness in apparel; and though she\nsometimes deigned to assist, it was always done with the features of\npity proceeding from contempt: but let us have done with this\ndisagreeable monster; I see, my dear Caroline, that you already despise\nher. Another laughing character calls our attention.--I will describe\nhim in the following story.\n_The History of Charles Banter._\n\"Charles was the son of a gentleman of very moderate circumstances, who\nhad, however, found means to send him to Eton College, where he\ndistinguished himself very early, not only by being the best scholar of\nhis age, but one of the best-natured boys. When Charles was _fag_, he\nwent through that service without a murmur; he was always as merry as a\ngrig. If his schoolfellows beat him, he only laughed all the time; in\nshort, Charles was what they called a fine fellow: but he had a very\ngreat fault, and that was an inclination to entertain himself\ncontinually with that disagreeable amusement of schoolboys, called\n_quizzing_; he used to quiz the master, quiz the mistress, quiz the\ninhabitants, and quiz the strangers. Charles, therefore, though he was\nadmired as a clever boy, was not loved, and indeed had many enemies; for\nthere are very few people who like to be laughed at. Charles Banter's\npropensity was often attended with disagreeable consequences, and was a\ngrand obstacle to his success in life. Charles was at home one vacation,\nwhen a distant relation, who happened to wear a wig, was on a visit to\nhis father.--The old gentleman took particular notice of Charles; and\nhaving no children of his own, had left him a very handsome fortune.\nCharles ought, you will say, to have had a little prudence, but he could\nnot resist the propensity to quiz. The wig was the object of his\namusement; and he contrived one day, before the old gentleman put it on,\nto slip into his room, and pepper and salt all the curls; so that when\nhe came down to dinner, he set the whole party at table sneezing. At\nlength the joke was discovered; and as nobody was present on whom the\nslightest suspicion of such an indecency could fall, except Charles, the\nquestion was put to him, and the colour in his face pleaded guilty; in\nshort, he confessed the joke; for Charles, to speak fairly of him,\ndisdained to tell a lie. His father, who was not a very sensible man,\nwas indiscreet enough to join in the laugh, and to take no farther\nnotice of the affair. It was not so with the old gentleman; he never\nvisited the same table afterwards, and to his will added the following\ncodicil:--'To master Charles Banter, for the seasoning of my wig, _five\nshillings_.'\n\"You will see by this event, my dear children, that it is your interest\nas well as duty, to pay respect to age; for old people can serve you by\ntheir experience, even if they have not money to leave you; you may fly\nto them for advice, and the attention you pay them is _never lost_. But\nthere is a still worse character, and that is him who enjoys mischief,\nand who takes a pleasure in cruelty; he laughs too, but his laugh is the\nsmile of malice. Such a wicked character was Tom Worry, who was the son\nof a gentleman, and who had begun very early to make war against the\npoor harmless animals and insects who came unfortunately in his way. To\ntorment and to destroy was his whole delight; and a poor innocent cat\nwas the particular object of his cruelty; and, what is very\nextraordinary, it was to the having hunted one of these poor animals\ninto a cellar, that he owed all the _scratches_ he afterwards received\nfrom ill-fortune; for while he was amusing himself in this way, he was\njoined by a _vulgar_ boy ten times more wicked than himself, and who\nexulted with him in the distress of poor puss: this boy ingratiated\nhimself into his favour, prevailed upon him to run away from his\nfriends, led him into a great many very serious scrapes, and was at\nlength his utter ruin.--Surely, my dear children, we need only to\nreflect for a moment on the nature of the pain we inflict, to turn from\nwanton cruelty: how should we like to be hunted into a corner, by\ncreatures stronger than ourselves, and pelted by them with stones and\ndirt? we should think it very hard usage. If any ill accident assails,\nhow altered are our features, how wretched, how distressed do we\nappear, what agony do our features express at the pain of a broken or\ndislocated limb! Let us see if Le Brun has described this\nsensation--yes, here it is.\nACUTE PAIN.\n[Illustration]\n\"See how the eyebrows approach each other, and rise towards the middle;\nthe eyeball is hid under the eyebrow; the nostrils rise, and make a\nwrinkle in the cheeks; the mouth half opens, and draws back; all the\nparts of the face are agitated, in proportion to the violence of the\npain.\n\"I think, my dear children, that I can tell you a story, which will, in\nits incidents, comprise several of the situations and passions which\nfollow, in this book of Le Brun. I had it from a French lady, and it is\ncalled\n_The Mother and her little Family._\n\"A scholar of the University of Basle, named Henry D'Orange, and who was\nthe only son of the rich Marquis D'Orange, was riding one day towards a\nsmall town, when, as he approached, he observed a great number of people\ngathered together, at the end of a narrow street. The scholar rode up to\nthem, to inquire into the cause of the tumult, when one of the persons,\nan honest shopkeeper, who happened to be standing on the step of his\ndoor, made answer, 'Ah, sir, a poor unhappy woman is the cause of all\nthis disturbance.'--'How so?' said the scholar.--'You don't know, sir,'\nreturned the honest merchant, 'how well this good creature deserves the\npity of the poor people who are her neighbours, and who would willingly\ngo to the greatest extremities to relieve her, did she not herself\nforbid it, and entreat them not to interfere with the course of\njustice.'--'I cannot yet comprehend you,' answered the young scholar;\n'what has happened to her?'--'Many misfortunes, sir, one after\nanother.--She is a widow; she has six children; she lost her husband\nafter he had been confined a year to his bed. I think, sir, that I see\nhim now; his eyebrows drawn together; the eye as if fixed on some\nobject; the nostrils raised, making a wrinkle in his worn cheeks; the\nmouth half opened and drawn back; and every part agitated in proportion\nto what he suffered.'\n\"Behold,\" cried Mr. Willock, \"the picture.\nSIMPLE BODILY PAIN.\n[Illustration]\n\"But to go on with the story--'So, sir,' continued the merchant, 'the\npoor young man died; and in about two months after that event, his widow\nwas delivered of her sixth child. These misfortunes were on the heels of\neach other; and the expences of interring her husband swallowed up the\nwhole of her little money. Her landlord, a man of a hard heart, and\ncruel disposition, would not give her time to pay a twelvemonth's rent,\nwhich was in arrear. It is only fifteen days since he told her, with\nthe most savage cruelty, that if she did not pay the money in a few\ndays, that he would seize her furniture, and turn her into the street.\nHe has kept his word; to-day the huissiers or bailiffs have surrounded\nthe house of this poor woman, and have taken every thing, even to the\ncradle of the poor innocent at her breast. The neighbours having found\nout what was going on, assembled together immediately, and would\nprobably have soon put an end to the power of these harpies of justice,\nif this good creature had not entreated them to desist. Ah, sir,'\ncontinued he, 'this is but a poor place; we are all distressed here, or\nshe should not want assistance.' The young stranger listened to the\nnarrative with great attention, and begged him to proceed. 'You may\njudge, sir, how much this amiable woman is beloved, and she deserves it\nall. In her better days, she never heard of distress without\nendeavouring to relieve it; if any one of her neighbours was sick, she\nwas always their nurse; and she attended to these duties without\nneglecting her aged father, who is still alive, though near an hundred\nyears of age, or forsaking the attention due to her little ones. During\nthe lifetime of her husband, who was a dealer in stuffs from Marseilles,\nall that she could save beyond what she thought superfluous to their\nsituation, she used to bestow in charity upon her poor neighbours.'\n\"Henry, who was so much affected that the tears ran from his eyes, now\ndismounted, and in an animated tone desired the shopkeeper to show him\nthe way to the dwelling of the poor woman. 'Conduct me,' said he, 'to\nthe house of this respectable widow, who deserves a palace instead of a\nprison, and who ought to find a protector in every friend of humanity.'\nSuch was the noble appearance of Henry, and the generous expression of\nhis countenance, that the crowd instantly made way for him to pass\nthrough to the dwelling of the widow.\n\"Henry presently arrived at the habitation of misery, and which had been\nbut a little time before the abode of conjugal felicity. He was struck\nwith astonishment at the scene which presented itself; he found the\ninteresting female, of whom he had heard so much, surrounded by her\nlittle ones, who were crying, while she was endeavouring to console and\ncomfort them with every mark of tenderness and affection, regardless of\nher own distress.\n\"Let us see, my dear children, if we can find the picture of this good\nmother. It is--it is the face of\nSADNESS.\n[Illustration]\n\"See her full of anxiety and sorrow, yet calm and resigned to the will\nof Heaven. Notice the dejection; the eyebrows rise towards the middle of\nthe forehead more than towards the cheeks; the eyeball appears full of\nperturbation; the white of the eye is turned yellow; the eyelids are\ndrawn down, and a little swelled; all about the eye is livid; the\nnostrils are drawn downwards; the mouth is half open, and the corners\nare drawn down; the head carelessly leaning on one of the shoulders; the\nface is of a lead colour; the lips pale.\n\"Who,\" my dear children, \"can view this amiable countenance, without\nfeeling interested for the object, a mother, and in sorrow--a mother in\nwant--a mother in despair.\n\"The poor dear woman seems to be without the most distant prospect of\nrelief; without the most remote chance of meeting with a friend; without\nmeans of extricating herself and her little ones from ruin; yet she\nought not to despair, for _Providence, when none appears, can find\nitself a way_.\n\"There were two of those unhappy beings in the world, whose profits and\nenjoyments arise out of the distresses of their fellow-creatures--two\nhuissiers, as they are called in France, or what we call sheriff's\nofficers; yet these people, my dear children, are necessary in the\ncommunity, to preserve property, and to cause us to act with justice to\neach other; and when their unpleasant office is performed with decency\nand mildness, they do not deserve disapprobation. It happened, however,\nthat the two officers who were in the poor widow's room were of that\ndescription who debase the very nature of man, by rapacity and cruelty,\nand who, hardened by constant scenes of misery, commit every possible\noutrage on the distressed and friendless.\n\"See them busily employed, taking an inventory of the little effects of\nthe poor widow, with an unfeeling composure, that disgraced even their\nprofession. Here is the portrait of one of them, full of officious\nconsequence and contempt for poverty. To the applications which are made\nto him by the poor widow for lenity, his hard inflexible features\npresent only the face of\nSCORN;\n[Illustration]\nand here are its lively and strong features. The forehead wrinkled; the\neyebrows knit; the side of it next the nose drawn down, and the other\nside rising very much; the eye is very open, and the eyeball is in the\nmiddle; the nostrils rise and draw towards the eyes, and make wrinkles\nin the cheeks; the mouth shuts, its sides sinking down, and the under\nlip is pushed out beyond the upper one. With what detestation do we view\nsuch a face as this!\n\"The scholar, mute with astonishment and terror, was some time before he\naddressed these harpies. He gazed first at the widow, whose interesting\ncountenance engaged his attention, then at the children about her, and\nthen on the officers--'How much, sir,' cried he to one of them who was\nwriting at a table, 'does the debt amount to?'--'I should like to know\nwhat business it is of yours,' answered the bailiff, in a surly tone,\nstill continuing to write, without deigning even to look at the person\nwho addressed him. 'You are mighty curious,' continued he; 'what\nbusiness is it of yours how much the woman owes? I suppose that you\nwont pay the money for her, will you?'\n\"The scholar's attention was now taken off by a heavy sigh, which he\nfound proceeded from the breast of an aged man, who was seated in an old\nelbow chair by the fireside. It was the poor widow's father, mourning\nfor her sorrows, and grieving for her distress; for as far as respected\nhimself, he had but little care. He was near eighty years of age. Here\nis the countenance of the poor old man; it is the face of\nWEEPING.\n[Illustration]\n\"The alterations that _Weeping_ causes are very strongly marked. The\neyebrows sink down towards the middle of the forehead; the eyes are\nalmost closed, wet and drawn down towards the cheeks; the nostrils\nswelled; the muscles and veins of the forehead appear; the mouth is\nshut, and the sides of it are drawn down, making wrinkles in the cheeks;\nthe under lip, pushed out, presses the upper one; the face is wrinkled\nand contracted; its colour is red, especially about the eyebrows, the\neyes, the nose, and the cheeks.\n\"Is it not a pity, my dear children, that the latter years of a good old\nman like this should be disturbed with grief--that an old man should\nweep? The young scholar thought so too, for he sighed at this scene of\naccumulated distress; but his attention was soon awakened to another\nobject. One of the officers (for they were determined to seize every\nthing in the room) took a little sleeping infant from its cradle, and\nlaid it rudely on the floor, snatching away at the same time the clothes\non which it had been laid.\n\"Henry was rouzed with indignation at this brutal conduct, and stood in\nneed of all his moderation to prevent his instantly giving the wretch\nthe chastisement he deserved; but he restrained his passion, and\ncontented himself with throwing his purse on the table, demanding again,\nin a lofty tone, the amount of the debt? The sight of the gold produced\nan instantaneous effect on the mind of the principal of the officers,\nand which discovered itself as promptly in his face; he replied in a\nmore civil tone, that ten louis was the amount of the sum demanded for\nthe rent and expences. Henry ordered him immediately to prepare a\nreceipt, which he did.\n\"When the money was paid, our young noble scholar exultingly _lifted the\nlittle infant from the floor, and replaced it in the cradle_.\n\"Henry stood a minute over the child, which smiled as if conscious of\nits protector's presence. Henry surveyed its features as it lay. Let us\nseek for his countenance at the time. Are not these, my dear children,\nhis features? is not this the delightful countenance, the beauteous face\nof\nCOMPASSION?\n[Illustration]\n\"The lively attention to the misfortunes of another, which is called\n_Compassion_, causes the eyebrows to sink towards the middle of the\nforehead; the eyeball to be fixed upon the object; the sides of the\nnostrils next the nose, to be a little elevated, making wrinkles in the\ncheeks; the mouth to be open; the upper lip to be lifted up, and thrust\nforward; the muscles, and all the parts of the face sinking down, and\nturning towards the object which cause the passion.\n\"Yes, this is indeed the portrait of the scholar looking at the infant\nin the cradle. What an assemblage of the noblest sentiments of the human\nmind produce _Compassion_--love, tenderness and care for the\nobject--self is for the time totally forgotten. How different, my dear\nchildren, is this face from that of the surly bailiff!\n\"The officers now took their leave, with each a servile bow, when the\npoor widow, overcome by the kindness and generosity of the young\nscholar, fell upon her knees, and invited her little children to do the\nlike, that they might thank God for having sent an angel to their\nsuccour; while the old man, who was sitting by the fireside, lifted up\nhis hands in a silent prayer to Heaven, and wept for joy.\n\"The young scholar embraced the mother and all her little ones, among\nwhom he generously distributed the remainder of the louis in his purse,\nand then took his leave, promising to see them again very soon.\n\"Henry mounted his horse amidst the acclamations of the people, who had\nsurrounded the house, and had heard of the way in which he had employed\nhis time. _Dieu vous benira_, 'God will bless you,' was reiterated from\nevery mouth.\n\"The young scholar kept his promise, for he often visited the cottage of\nthe poor widow, and represented her amiableness and situation in such\nlively colours to the marchioness his mother, that she took the whole\nfamily under her protection, placed them in a little way of business,\nand helped them until by their own industry they had made themselves\nindependent.\n\"This, my dear children, was true generosity. The object was worthy: the\ndonor had the means to make happy; none were injured by the gift; no\njust claims were left unpaid, and a poor family were made happy.\n\"This narrative will show you also, my dear children, the power and\ngoodness of the Almighty, who, by his Providence, ordered it so, that\nwhat appeared to the poor widow as her greatest misfortune should turn\nout to be the very means of affording her and her children a future\nprovision, and that much more ample than she could have expected. Thus,\nmy dear children, '_Providence, when none appears, can find itself a\nway._'\"\nMr. Willock had no sooner finished his story, than he had the pleasure\nto observe his young people occupied in very serious reflections on what\nthey had heard. \"My dear children,\" said he, \"I am very much pleased for\nthe attention you have paid, and for the interest you have taken in the\nmisfortunes of the good widow. I shall leave you to enjoy the thoughts\nof her good fortune, and of the change produced in her affairs by the\ngenerosity of the young scholar. To-morrow evening, I will tell you a\nstory of another kind, where I shall have to represent to you some of\nthe worst of the passions of the human mind, such as you will hate and\ndetest, when you see their ugliness and deformity.\"\nThe next evening Mr. Willock resumed his office of lecturer, and was\nfully attended by the young family.\n\"I am now,\" said he, \"going to tell you a story, in which the passions\nof horror, terror or fright, anger, hatred or jealousy, and despair,\nwill be represented; it is called\n_The Wicked Baron, and Nicholas the Honest Wood-cutter._\n\"In the South part of the forest of Dean, in Gloucestershire, there\nlived, many years ago, a poor wood-cutter, named Nicholas; he was not\nmore than thirty years of age, of a handsome figure, lusty, and strong.\nNicholas was rough and sturdy as an oak, but bent as tenderly to the\ntale of distress as the gourd to the wind; he was apt, it is true, to be\na little ill-tempered at times, and somewhat sour; besides being a\nlittle rude and unfashioned in his manners; but somehow or other, so\nfinely delineated were the characters of nature and truth in his mind,\nthat the outlines might be seen in his face, whenever distress or\nmisfortune claimed his protection.\n\"Nicholas had a wife named Gertrude, and she was naturally a good woman,\nthough she would fret and scold whenever they happened to be poor, which\nwas no uncommon case with them: they had nothing but hard labour to\ntrust to for support, and had a young boy to provide for; besides, it\nunfortunately happened for both of them, that Gertrude was the daughter\nof a once-wealthy farmer, but who had been ruined by a murrain among his\ncattle. Gertrude had therefore received a little better education than\nNicholas, who could, however, read and write, a great wonder in those\ndays, and which he owed, when a boy, to the kind instructions of a good\nold monk. Gertrude, who recollected her father's happy board, was\nrather out of temper with her situation, and so foolish, as to be\nconstantly wishing for riches, and pining after wealth, which was never\nlikely to come to her share.\n\"It happened one night, after Nicholas had returned home from work, and\nfinding Gertrude cross, that something like the following conversation\ntook place between them; but, my dear children, you must avoid this\nmanner of speaking, which is only used among poor country people.\n'My dear, how ill-tempered you are!' cried Nicholas.--'I may well be ill\ntempered,' replied Gertrude; 'this is the last meal we shall have this\nweek.'--'That is more than you know, my dear,' answered her husband.--'I\nam almost famished, I am,' cried Gertrude.--'Look at the poor cat, and\nmake yourself happy, my dear,' replied Nicholas.--'Well, there's your\nsupper,' cried Gertrude, taking a small piece of meat from the\npot.--'Supper do you call it,' answered Nicholas; 'why there's scarcely\nenough to bait a mouse-trap: but wont you take a bit, my dear?'--'I\nshant touch any of it,' answered Gertrude, peevishly.--'Well, for my\npart,' replied Nicholas, 'I'll say grace even for this morsel.'\n\"Nicholas said all he could to put his wife in a good humour, but was\nnot lucky enough to succeed. She took it into her head that he was\nbantering of her, and began to sob and cry, reproaching him with\nbringing her into poverty.--'But it serves me right,' cried she. 'I\nmight have married a rich yeoman, so I might, and have had plenty, that\nI might.'--'Shu, nonsense,' answered Nicholas. 'To throw myself away\nupon a chopper of wood,' cried she; 'and there too, we have had to bring\nup that idle boy, because, truly, you found him laid in the forest one\nnight.'--'Now don't say a word about that,' answered Nicholas, 'or I\nshall get as ill-tempered as yourself, out of mere good nature.'\n\"While the wood-cutter and his wife were scolding in this way, some one\nknocked loudly at the door, when after some more words about who should\nopen it, Nicholas went, and a stranger very elegantly dressed entered\nthe cottage. It was a tempest, and the night very dark.\n'Good people,' said the stranger, 'will you afford a traveller shelter\nfrom the storm?'--'Willingly, sir,' answered Nicholas.--'Very willingly,\nsir,' interrupted Gertrude; 'wont you be pleased to sit down, sir?'\n\"The stranger was the rich Norman Baron de la Braunch.--'Well,' cried\nhe, 'Nicholas, how does fortune use thee?'--'Roughly enough,\nsir.'--'Heaven knows,' replied Gertrude.--'Who told you to speak?'\ninterrupted Nicholas. 'My wife, sir, is always grumbling; she must,\nforsooth, be longing after riches; and though I don't remember, by the\ngoodness of Providence, that we have ever wanted a meal, yet she is\nalways talking about starving.'--'Ay, ay, nobody knows what I suffer, I\nam sure,' replied Gertrude; 'I might have married a rich yeoman, that I\nmight.'--'Come, come, good people,' cried the Baron, 'be better tempered\nwith each other: and do you think, good woman, that riches would make\nyou happy?'--'That they would, sir,' answered Gertrude; 'for rich folks\ncan eat and drink whatever they've a mind to, and can dress as they\nplease; and then they can feed ever so many poor people, and can make\never so many folks happy.'--'Ah, ah, so they might, wife,' answered\nNicholas, 'and yet not be happy themselves, after all.'--'Well now, I\ncan't see how that can be,' replied Gertrude. 'I am sure I should like\nhugely to be rich, and to have a castle, and forests, and deer of my\nown, and plenty of servants.'--'And you are quite certain that you would\nbe happy if you were rich?' repeated the Baron.--'Yes, sir,' cried\nGertrude; 'and I would never scold my poor Nicholas any more, for he is\nas good a creature as ever was in the world, though I was angry with him\njust now; and to say the truth, I do not believe that he could have got\nany more work to-day if he had tried ever so; but when one is poor, and\nthere is no meat in the pot, one is apt to be a little vexed and cross.'\n\"Nicholas wiped his eyes at this kind atonement of his wife Gertrude.\n\"The Baron went into a deep reverie--the storm was over--the Baron\narose, he pulled out a purse and put it into Gertrude's hand, and then\nwished them a good-night.--Nicholas offered to see him through the\nforest, but he declined the offer.\n\"The instant the Baron had left the cottage, Gertrude run to the lamp to\nexamine the purse; it was full of gold coin. 'Blessed St. Anthony,'\ncried she, 'what is this? all gold! Nicholas, look here; see what\nProvidence has done for us.'--'Ay, I told you so,' answered Nicholas,\n'and you are always grumbling.'--'Nay now, don't be cross, Nicholas,'\nsaid Gertrude, 'when we've had so much good luck; look at it, Nicholas,\n'tis all pure gold. I'll have a new dress, and, I'll go and wake poor\nHenry, and tell him that he shall have a new coat.'--'And what am I to\nhave?' cried Nicholas.--'You shall see us all clean and happy.'--'Thank\nye,' answered the honest wood-cutter, 'that's all I want.'--'And we\nwill have a good piece of meat in the pot to-morrow,' cried\nGertrude.--'And I am sure you wont sleep to night,' answered\nNicholas.--'That I shant,' said she: 'well, who knows what good luck is\nto follow?'--'Peace, Gertrude,' cried Nicholas, 'may not this money be a\ntemptation?'--'May it, Nicholas?'--'Who knows?' said Nicholas.--'If I\nthought so,' answered Gertrude, 'I would not touch it.'--'Come, come,'\ncried Nicholas, 'while it don't make us covetous after more, and lead us\nto do wrong, we shall have nothing to fear. For my part, I shall work\nthe same as ever; but don't grumble, Gertrude.'--'You shall never hear a\ncross word from me,' answered Gertrude.\n\"Thus did these poor cottagers end their discourse, and both sat down to\nsupper, pleased and happy; but they could neither of them rest at night\nfor thinking of their riches.\n\"Very different sentiments disturbed the repose of the Baron; he had\narrived at the height of his ambition; he was one of the richest knights\nin the kingdom; enjoyed a good fame, and had the favour of the king: yet\nhe was not happy; he was a miserable wretch; the honesty and dignity of\na good mind was wanting; he was restless and disturbed in the possession\nof wealth, and would almost have parted with the whole of it, again to\nhave been innocent.\n\"One day, about a twelvemonth after this time, Nicholas was at work in\nthe woods, with his boy Henry. A stranger had inquired for him at the\ncot; Gertrude had directed him to the place where Nicholas was felling\ntrees. On the stranger's approach, he heard a man scolding--'What,'\ncried he, 'do you think I am to keep you for nothing, you little lazy\nmonkey? why don't you get another withy, and bind up these faggots?'--'I\nam at work, as fast as I can,' answered the boy, 'but you are so cross.\nIf you are tired of keeping me, I'll leave you to-morrow, and seek for\nsupport elsewhere.'--'Leave me, that you shant,' cried Nicholas; 'I\nfound you in the forest one night, laid on the turf, a poor helpless\nbrat; humanity made me take you in; and though I am apt to be sour at\ntimes, I have enough of the same humanity left to prevent your ever\nbeing turned out.'--'You have, indeed, been very kind to me,' answered\nthe boy.'--'Well, shake hands, Henry,' said Nicholas, 'and think no more\nof what has past.'\n\"When the stranger entered the close, he addressed Nicholas--'Come,'\nsaid he, 'you must leave off and go with me.'--'Truly not I,' said\nNicholas, 'for I have not quite done.'--'No matter, thou must go to the\ncottage. I have good news to tell thee.'--'Nay, if that be the case,'\nsaid Nicholas, 'it is worth half a day's work; so here's pack\nup.'--Nicholas proceeded with the stranger, and the boy Henry followed.\n\"On their arrival at the cottage, Gertrude welcomed her husband home,\nand prepared a place for the stranger, who prefaced what he had to say\nwith some remarks on the extraordinary changes and vicissitudes of human\nlife; and then inquired if they remembered a stranger, of more than\ncommon appearance, who had visited them one stormy night, about a\ntwelvemonth before?\n\"Nicholas and Gertrude both answered him, and told him of the present\nthey had received from that person.\n'Now,' cried the stranger to Nicholas, 'I know that thou art truly the\nman whom I seek; prepare to go with me to the castle of La Braunch,\nthou, and thy wife and family.'--'Indeed, sir, you'll excuse me there,'\ncried Nicholas; 'I shall not stir out any more to-day.'--'Do not be so\nobstinate,' replied the stranger, 'for know, that he who gave you the\nmoney a twelvemonth since, was the Baron de la Braunch.--He is dead, and\nyou are heir to all his rich demesnes.'--'I don't rightly understand\nyou,' answered the wood-cutter.--'The castle, the lands, all his real\nand personal estate, is thine.'--'My dear, don't you understand the\ngentleman?' cried Gertrude.--'Not I, in good faith,' answered\nNicholas.--'Why, don't you know that you have come to be a rich man, and\nthat the rich Baron has left you all that he was worth in the\nworld?'--'It is true, indeed,' answered the stranger; 'I am witness to\nthe will. When the Baron was dying, he desired a scroll of parchment to\nbe brought out of his library: his order was instantly obeyed--\"This\nscroll,\" said he, fixing his eye steadily upon it, \"is my will. Thou\nwilt find,\" said he, \"in the forest of Dean, a solitary cottage,\ninhabited by a wood-cutter and his wife. The name of the wood-cutter is\nNicholas; the name of his wife is Gertrude. These people are poor; they\nwish for riches, and they _shall be_ rich; they shall be the heirs of\nthe Baron de la Braunch; who knows, perhaps to them riches may be a\nblessing.\"--The Baron affixed his seal to the parchment, and soon after\nexpired in the arms of father Benedict.\n'Well,' cried Nicholas, 'and what will become of me? What can I do with\nall these riches?'--'Do with them; leave that to me,' said Gertrude,\nquite overjoyed.--'I don't want to be put out of my way,' said\nNicholas.--Poor Gertrude, in the innocence of her heart, stopped the\nmouth of her husband--'Dear Nicholas, do not affront the gentleman; I am\nsure that I should like to be a lady very much; and to be sure I did\nthink that there was something very odd in the stranger's behaviour to\nus that night, and took it into my head that he would do something for\nus, though to be sure I did not think that he would die and leave us all\nhis wealth; but this gentleman would not say so if it was not true; so,\nNicholas, if you must be a rich man after all, why you must not mind a\nlittle trouble.'--'Well,' replied Nicholas, 'if it must be so, there's\nno help for it.'\n\"The stranger had provided a cloak, with a hat and a sword, with which\nhe accoutred the poor wood-cutter; and also a decent robe, which he\nthrew over the shoulders of Gertrude.\n\"Nicholas would not go without the boy Henry; so they shut up the\ncottage, and set out together. It was late when they arrived at the\ncastle; they were conducted to a room provided for them, by the\ndirection of the stranger, who was the Baron's esquire Hathbrand, when\nhaving caused one of the wardrobes of the Baron to be opened, he\nselected such of the plainest dresses as he thought would best become\nNicholas, Gertrude, and the young boy Henry. Gertrude was, however, very\ndesirous of being fine, and was also much pleased with the attention of\nRanetrude, the waiting-woman appointed to attend on her.\n\"Doric the old steward, Jonas the butler, and all the rest of the\nservants, were ordered to get themselves in readiness the next morning,\nto attend the reading of the Baron's will, and to receive their new\nmaster.\n\"The story was already spread abroad, that the Baron had left his\nimmense wealth to a poor wood-cutter; and numerous were the remarks and\nlow witticisms on the subject, from old Doric, Jonas, and the other\nservants, as they waited in the hall, among the numerous tenantry of the\nBaron, to hear the will read, and to receive their new lord.\n\"At length Nicholas and Gertrude, attended by Hathbrand the squire, and\nRanetrude, entered the hall.--Nicholas saluted the domestics and tenants\nwithout awkwardness, and stept forward without dismay.\n\"Hathbrand held the parchment in his hand; he spoke--My friends, peace\nbe with you all; I here produce the will of the late Baron de la\nBraunch. Attend--\"Know all men, that I the Baron de la Braunch, do give\nand bequeath to Nicholas le Blanc, of the forest of Dean, all the real\nand personal estate of which I now stand possessed, on condition that he\nvisits the third chamber in the western turret alone, there to unlock\nthe chest which contains the title-deeds, and that he never divulges the\nsecrets they will unfold.\" The third chamber in the western turret had\nnot been used for many years, as the eastern part of the castle had been\ninhabited by the Baron.\n\"Nicholas ascended the western turret alone, and after some difficulty\nopened the door of the third chamber, when he entered, and discovered in\na remote corner a large iron chest, the key of which was hanging near\nthe entrance. Nicholas attempted to open it; at length by an effort he\nsucceeded; he lifted up the lid, and took out a large scroll of\nparchment. Nicholas read--'_The title of the Baron de la Braunch to\nthese demesnes is murder!_'\n\"Nicholas let fall the scroll, but recovered it again; he run into the\ngallery, and then stood motionless.\n\"And now, my dear children,\" said Mr. Willock, \"let us find something\nlike the face of honest Nicholas, when he was reading how bad a title he\nhad to the riches bequeathed him. Here it is, expressive of his\nabhorrence of the crime, and of the object who left him his wealth. This\nis the face of\nHORROR.\n[Illustration]\n\"An object despised, says Le Brun, sometimes causes _Horror_; and then\nthe eyebrow knits, and sinks a great deal more; the eyeball placed at\nthe bottom of the eye, is half covered by the lower eyelid; the mouth is\nhalf open, but closer in the middle than the sides, which being drawn\nback, make wrinkles in the cheeks; the face grows pale, and the eyes\nbecome livid; the muscles and the veins are marked.\n\"But to continue--While Nicholas was gone to the western turret,\nrefreshment was prepared in the hall, and Gertrude and Henry waited\nanxiously for his return to partake of it with them. The honest old\nsteward and Jonas the butler had not been sparing of expence on the\noccasion: so that the entertainment was as superb as if the Baron had\nbeen alive. They had begun to like their new master, who was a bold\ngenerous fellow, and they were determined to show him all the respect\nand homage they could, notwithstanding he had been a wood-cutter.\n\"They were waiting in suspense for Nicholas; presently his steps were\nheard descending the stairs quickly. He entered in great\nagitation--'Gertrude,' was all that he could say; his face was the face\nof\nTERROR.\n[Illustration]\nas represented by Le Brun. The violence of this passion alters all the\nparts of the face; the eyebrows rise in the middle; its muscles are\nmarked, swelled, pressed one against the other, and sunk towards the\nnose, which draws up as well as the nostrils; the eyes are very open;\nthe upper eyelid is hid under the eyebrow; the white of the eye is\nencompassed with red; the eyeball fixes towards the lower part of the\neye; the lower part of the eyelid swells, and becomes livid; the muscles\nof the nose and cheeks swell, and these last terminate in a point\ntowards the sides of the nostrils; the mouth is very open, and its\ncorners very apparent; the muscles and veins of the neck are\nstretched; the hair stands an end; the colour of the face, that is, the\nend of the nose, the lips, the ears, and round the eyes, is pale and\nlivid. Such was the face of honest Nicholas. He fell into a chair, and\nlet drop the scroll.\n'Heavens! what ails my poor Nicholas?' cried Gertrude; 'speak, speak to\nme, Nicholas.'--'Let us to our cottage, Gertrude,' replied Nicholas,\n'let us to our cottage!'--'What ails you, my dear Nicholas?' said\nGertrude, feeling his hand. 'Oh dear, how cold!'--'Read, read!' said\nNicholas.\n\"Hathbrand took up the scroll, and read--'_Know, thou who longest after\nriches, that the title to these estates is murder_; the infant heir to\nthese demesnes was on Christmas night, now fourteen years since, left to\nperish in the forest of Dean.'\n'What is that?' cried Nicholas; 'read it again; as I live, the very\nnight I found our poor Henry.'--'The very night indeed,' repeated\nGertrude.--'Are you sure of this?' interrupted Hathbrand.--'Most\ncertain, sir,' replied Nicholas. 'I remember the night very well; it was\nbitter cold. Oh dear! oh dear! this is all Providence! this is all\nProvidence!'\n\"Nicholas embraced Henry: Gertrude embraced him also.\n\"Henry wept; he understood all that was said; he took the hand of\nNicholas--'Thou hast fed me,' said he, 'out of thy scanty pittance; thou\nmust not leave me, Nicholas. I have no friend that I know of, but my\ndear Nicholas.'\n\"Nicholas consented to remain in a cottage near the castle, but refused\nto be rich. Gertrude had no longer any desire to be rich.\n\"Hathbrand and the servants were delighted to find their young master so\nnoble and gallant a youth, and immediately did him homage.\n\"As they were speaking of these surprising events, father Benedict\nentered; he brought with him Hugo, a wretch whom the Baron, in his\nconfessions, had accused of being his accomplice, and who had left the\nchild to perish in the woods; he was strongly guarded, but denied the\ncharge; he bid defiance to the power of his accusers, and insisted that\nthe Baron had died in a state of insanity.\n\"Surely here are the features of this bravo, full of defiance and\nresentment; is it not the face of\nANGER?\n[Illustration]\n\"The effects of anger shew its nature; the eyes become red and inflamed;\nthe eyeball is staring and sparkling; the eyebrows are sometimes\nelevated, and sometimes sunk down equally; the forehead is very much\nwrinkled, with wrinkles between the eyes; the nostrils are open and\nenlarged; the lips pressing against one another; the under one rising\nover the upper one, leaves the corners of the mouth a little open,\nmaking a cruel and disdainful grin.\n\"The Baron had, however, confessed his own wickedness, and the cause of\nhis cruelty towards the infant. The facts were these. The Baron Hubert,\nwho was ordered to Palestine, left his wife lady Bertha, and his child\nEdward, under the protection of his friend, the Baron de la Braunch:\nlord Hubert was killed in the crusade, and his lady died soon after,\nleaving the infant under the guardianship of the Baron, who fearing that\none day the child would be likely to succeed to his father's\npossessions, it became hateful to him. The mind of the Baron was set\nupon the wealth of his deceased friend; he was constantly jealous and\ndisturbed at the sight of the infant; he had laid a plan to destroy\nit.--What a dreadful situation it must have been to have had a mind like\nhis! When once such wicked ideas are entertained, there is an end of\nall rest, of all enjoyment, and of all comfort. The face represents the\nstorm that agitates the breast. It is horrid even to look at it. How\ndoes Le Brun describe it?\"\nHATRED or JEALOUSY.\n[Illustration]\n\"This passion wrinkles the forehead; the eyebrows are sunk down and\nknit; the eyeball is half hid under the eyebrows, which turn towards the\nobject; it should appear full of fire, as well as the white of the eye\nand the eyelid; the nostrils open, more marked than ordinary, and drawn\nbackward, so as to make wrinkles on the cheeks; the mouth is so shut as\nto show the teeth, and very much sunk down; the muscles of the jaw\nappear sunk; the colour of the face is partly inflamed, and partly\nyellowish; the lips pale or livid.\n\"The infant was taken into the woods by Hugo, where it was left to\nperish; and the wicked Baron soon contrived to persuade the domestics\nthat the child had died of a fever; and had even a mock burial, the\nbetter to deceive them.\n\"But, my dear children,\" said Mr. Willock, \"if the former was the\ncountenance of the wicked Baron before he committed the crime, how did\nit appear now? instead of finding that he could enjoy his riches, his\nmind was full of horror and dismay; his anguish became extreme; his face\nappeared not only deformed but hideous; the forehead wrinkled from the\ntop to the bottom; the eyebrows bent down over the eyes, and pressing\none another on the sides of the nose; the eyes seemingly on fire, and\nfull of blood; the eyeball disturbed, and under the eyebrows, sparkling\nand unfixed; the eyelid swelled and livid; the nostrils large, open, and\nlifted up; the end of the nose sunk down; the muscles, leaders, and\nveins, swelled and stretched; the upper part of the cheeks large,\nmarked, and narrow towards the jaw; the mouth drawn backwards, more open\nat the sides than in the middle; the lower lip large and turned out, he\ngnashes his teeth, foams, bites his lips, which are pale, as is the rest\nof the face; the hair is strait, and stands an end; such was the picture\nof the wicked Baron, the picture of\nDESPAIR.\n\"What a dreary thing, my dear children, must be despair--afflicted by an\naccusing conscience, and bereft of hope! What would this wicked man have\ngiven, after he had parted with his ill-gotten wealth, to have found the\nchild alive! but that felicity was denied him living; he was to die in\naffliction.\n\"The wicked Hugo was taken to prison to await his punishments.--But let\nus turn to a more agreeable subject--the honest wood cutter, who could\nrefuse all the allurements of wealth, because it was ill-gotten; even\nhis wife Gertrude, who loved riches, disdained to enjoy them on such\nterms. What a lesson does this afford to us to be noble in mind, and to\nresist temptation! The good do not feel any of the violent passions;\nthey are moderate and temperate in all they do; they are undisturbed,\nand through all the changes of life may depend on that Providence, the\nrecollection of which occasioned the great and good Jonas Hanway; who\nfounded the Marine Society, to use the motto--'_Never Despair_.'\n\"Never, then, my dear children, suffer your young minds to long after\nriches, when they cannot be purchased by fair and honest means; for you\nmay rest assured that it is much better to prefer,\n    \"_The wise man's choice, by which you'll find,\n    No wealth is like a quiet mind_.\"\n_FINIS._\nPrinted by Lane, Darling, & Co. Leadenhall Street, London.\nBOOKS\nFOR THE\n_Instruction and Amusement of Youth_,\nSold by A. K. NEWMAN & CO. Leadenhall Street.\n_Bound in Red Leather, elegant Plates._\n  Chesterfield's (Lord) Advice to his Son                1  3\n  Gregory's Legacy to his Daughters                      1  3\n  Indian Cottage and Coffee-House of Surat               1  3\n_Elegant coloured Plates, sewed in Fancy Paper._\n  Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves                         1  6\n  Adventures of the Fortunate Woman                      1  6\n  Gulliver's Travels and Wonderful Adventures            1  6\n  Jack Daw \"at Home;\" or the Rout of the Birds\n    that were not invited by the Peacock                 1  6\n  Lion's Parliament, or the Beasts in Debate             1  6\n  Madame Grimalkin's Party, or the Cat's Concert         1  6\n  Sam and his Gun, with his wonderful Skill in\n  Seven Champions of Christendom                         1  6\n  Each of the above, with plain plates                   1  6\n  History of Tabby, a Favourite Cat, as related by\n  Herself to her Kittens, 3 coloured plates              1  6\n  Pomona's Frolic, or the Grand Jubilee of the Animated\n  The First Voyage of Columbus, 4 coloured plates        1  6\n  The Second and Third Voyages of Ditto, 4 ditto         0  6\nTranscriber's Notes:\nItalic text is denoted by _underscores_ and bold text by =equal signs=.\nObvious punctuation errors and minor printer errors repaired.\nEvery effort has been made to replicate this text as faithfully as\npossible, including obsolete and variant spellings and other\ninconsistencies.\nTable of Contents added by transcriber.\np20: Unintelligible marks and printing gap in the original book\nprecedes (Caroline began now to show some impatience)\np111: Unintelligible marks and printing gap in the original book\nprecedes (Boadicea had a constant antipathy)\nSome of the prices in the list of books at the back of the book were not\nclear in the original book, so a best guess has been made.", "source_dataset": "gutenberg", "source_dataset_detailed": "gutenberg -  The Juvenile Lavater; or, A Familiar Explanation of the Passions of Le Brun\n"},
{"source_document": "", "creation_year": 1796, "culture": " English\n", "content": "Produced by Charlene Taylor and the Online Distributed\nProofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was\nproduced from images generously made available by The\nInternet Archive)\n                       INCLUDING AN ACCOUNT OF THE\n                      AS LECTURED UPON BY HIS SON,\n                STARS TEACH AS WELL AS SHINE!    YOUNG.\n                OS HOMINI SUBLIME DEDIT; C\u0152LUMQUE TUERI\n                JUSSIT, ET ERECTOS AD SIDERA TOLLERE VULTUS.\n                         THE FOURTEENTH EDITION.\n            AND SOLD BY J. ROBSON AND W. CLARKE, BOND-STREET;\n                 AND G. KEARSLEY, FLEET-STREET, LONDON.\nAN\n_EPITOME of ASTRONOMY_;\nAS ILLUSTRATED BY THE\nE\u00eddouran\u00edon,\nOR\nTRANSPARENT ORRERY.\nThis elaborate Machine is 20 feet diameter: it stands vertical before\nthe spectators; and its globes are so large, that they are distinctly\nseen in the most distant part of a Theatre. Every Planet and Satellite\nseems suspended in space, without any support; performing its annual\nand diurnal revolutions without any apparent cause. It is certainly the\nnearest approach to the magnificent simplicity of nature, and to its just\nproportions, as to magnitude and motion, of any Orrery yet made: and\nbesides being a most brilliant and beautiful spectacle, conveys to the\nmind the most sublime instruction: rendering astronomical truths so plain\nand intelligible, that even those who have not so much as thought upon\nthe subject, may acquire clear ideas of the laws, motions, appearances,\neclipses, transits, influences, &c. of the planetary system.\nScene 1.\n_THE SUN AND EARTH_:\nWith the Zodiacal Constellations.\nAs information is the primary object of this lecture, it is thought more\nuseful to exhibit PARTS of the solar system, separately, before a grand\ndisplay was made of the whole. This scene therefore, opens with only the\nSun and the Earth. The Sun seems suspended in the middle of the system,\nand by spots on his face, is seen to turn round on his axis in 25\u00bc days;\nlight issues from his orb in all directions; in the blaze of which is\nsuspended the Earth, turning on its axis to produce day and night, and\nrevolving round the Sun to produce the seasons: its axis inclines 23\u00bd\ndegrees from a perpendicular to the plane of its orbit; and by that axis\nkeeping parallel to itself during this annual journey, the northern and\nsouthern hemispheres are alternately addressed to the Sun; shewing, when\nit is summer in one, it is winter in the other, and _vice vers\u00e2_. This\nscene so naturally exhibits the cause of day, night, twilight, summer\nand winter, spring and autumn, long and short days, &c. that a bare\ninspection of the Machine is sufficient to convey the clearest idea of\nthese ph\u00e6nomena.\nThe Earth in this scene ought to be unshackled with meridians or\nparallels of latitude:\u2014to be a free and independent ball, with land and\nwater represented as they would appear to a distant spectator looking at\nthe real Earth. But as globes are seldom seen without these appendages, a\nglobe of two feet in diameter, equipped with meridians and parallels of\nlatitude (being requisite for illustration) will perform a diurnal and\nannual motion round the Sun, and explain the above ph\u00e6nomena on so large\na scale, that their effects on the smallest island may be seen from the\nmost distant part of the theatre.\nThis scene is surrounded by transparent paintings of the twelve signs of\nthe Zodiac, shewing how the Sun, or rather the Earth, enters and passes\nthro\u2019 Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, &c.\nAuxiliary scenes accompany this, to shew the principles of planetary\nmotion; the formation of the constellations and their allegorical\nhistory; the oblate, yet nearly globular figure of the Earth; how ships\nand mountains appear at sea; with ships moving round a large globe of six\nfeet diameter, &c. proving that the Earth can contain inhabitants on all\nsides, &c.\nScene 2.\n_SUN, EARTH, AND MOON_:\nPHASES AND ECLIPSES.\nConsists of the Sun, the Earth, and the Moon. The object of this scene\nis to display the cause of the waxing and waning of the Moon, and of\nsolar and lunar eclipses: for this purpose the Earth perform its annual\nand diurnal motions, and projects a conical shadow opposite to the Sun\nduring its journey round him. The Moon borrows her light from the Sun;\nand which, in reflection to the Earth, is not more than one three hundred\nthousandth part so strong: and performing her rotation round the Earth,\nevery 29D. 12H. 44M. will sometimes shew us more and sometimes less of\nthe enlightened part of her body. Hence, when she is between the Earth\nand the Sun, her dark side is towards us, and we lose sight of her, and\ncall this part of her period the CHANGE; but as she revolves round the\nEarth from West to East (the same way the Earth turns on its axis) in a\nfew days we see her above the Sun in the West, and seeing a small part of\nher enlightened face, call the appearance the Horned, or NEW Moon: (for\nher dark side, receiving no reflection of light from any neighbouring\nbody, cannot be seen except in very clear weather). As she proceeds on\nher monthly journey, when the Sun sets in the West, we see her near our\nmeridian, and then she appears an HALF Moon, and we say she is at the\nfirst quarter; as she approaches the FULL, more of her enlightened side\nmay be seen, and she assumes an OVAL or GIBBOUS appearance. At the FULL\nshe is opposite to the Sun, when the inhabitants of the Earth look at her\nin the same direction as the rays of that luminary, and of course see\nthe whole of her enlightened face. In performing the other half of her\njourney, she wanes; and exposing less and less of her enlighted side to\nus, again disappears.\nThis scene receives also auxiliary illustration, before the grand scene\nopens: and in maps of the Moon during its exhibition, particularly one\nof five feet diameter, made from telescopes of the largest magnifying\npowers, and laid down with the most minute correctness, with maps of\nthe appearance of the Earth as seen from the Moon, indicating from this\nsimilarity, that they are worlds of nearly similar construction.\nIn the thirteen revolutions she will make while the Earth travels round\nthe Sun, it will evidently appear that the Earth is a Moon to her, but\nappearing thirteen times as large as the Moon to us; that she does not\nshine by her own light; that she has no diversity of seasons; that she\nkeeps the same side always turned towards the Earth, and therefore turns\non her axis every 29\u00bd days; that her surface is mountainous[1]; and that\nshe shines without setting, every second fortnight, on the arctic or\nantarctic parts of our globe, during winter: a very sublime and simple\nprovision for the otherwise long continued darkness that at opposite\nseasons of the year would invelope the polar regions of the Earth.\nIf the Moon moved in the same plane or level with the Earth, we should\nhave an eclipse every full and change; but as she travels 5\u00be degrees to\nthe North of it, and the same to the South of it, every lunation, she\nonly crosses the plane of the Earth\u2019s orbit in two places, which points\nof intersection (called the Moon\u2019s NODES) though in a trackless path,\nmove 19\u00be degrees towards the West every year, and therefore pass round\nthe Heavens in 18 years and 225 days; which is the golden number of our\ncalendar. Hence, when one of these nodes is between the Earth and the Sun\nat the change, the Moon\u2019s shadow is thrown on the Earth, and she eclipses\nthe Sun; and if she comes to the full when either node is opposite to the\nSun, she falls into the Earth\u2019s shadow, and loses for a short time her\nborrowed light: hence, as she mostly passes above or below the Earth\u2019s\nshadow, we have Eclipses very seldom. These ph\u00e6nomena are produced in the\nEidouranion as they are in nature, and perfectly evident on inspection.\nScene 3.\n_THEORY OF TIDES_, ILLUSTRATED.\nThis Scene also consists of the Sun, the Earth, and the Moon. But the\nintention is to shew how the Earth and Moon agitate each other round\ntheir common centre of gravity, causing two tides every 25 hours. It is\na circumstance truly astonishing, to see in calm weather, and under a\nserene sky, the violent agitation of the great fluid mass of the ocean,\nwhose waves roll against the shore with so grand impetuosity.\u2014This\nspectacle invites to reflection, and rouses a desire to penetrate\ninto its cause: hence the Earth\u2019s THREE-FOLD motion appears in this\nscene:\u2014that, on its axis, to produce day and night: that, round the\nSun, to produce the year and our seasons; and that, round the centre\nof gravity with the Moon, to produce spring and neap tides, by their\ncombined and opposite influences. The Moon is so near the Earth (240,000\nmiles at a medium) in comparison of the Sun (near 100 millions of miles)\nthat the Moon\u2019s attraction on the waters of the ocean and on the air of\nour atmosphere (for there are tides in both) is to that of the Sun as\nten is to three. So at the change of the Moon, the attraction of the Sun\nand Moon being in the same direction, a power of thirteen influences the\nsea, and we have SPRING tides; but at the quarters of the Moon, the two\nluminaries counteract the attractions of each other, so the Sun\u2019s power\nof three being taken from the Moon\u2019s of ten, leaves only seven operating\nupon the sea, and NEAP tides take place.\nA tumbler filled with water, may be whirled by a string vertically round\nthe head, without any danger of the water falling out of it. Those parts\nof the Earth that come successively OPPOSITE to the Moon, perform a much\nlarger circle round the centre of gravity, than the parts immediately\nUNDER the Moon: hence the waters opposite the Moon are THROWN OFF, as it\nwere, by their centrifugal motion, and rise above the common level, as\nwell as the waters exposed to the Moon\u2019s immediate attraction; thus two\ntides are produced in 25 hours, opposite to each other; and by the Earth\nturning through those protuberances, its waters rise and fall.\nThe Sun would produce two small, but similar tides, if the Earth had no\nMoon; therefore at the full of the Moon the Sun\u2019s centrifugal tide being\nreinforced by the Moon\u2019s attraction, and the Moon\u2019s centrifugal tide\nbeing also assisted by the Sun\u2019s attraction, spring tides take place at\nthe full, as well as at the change, of the Moon.\n    \u261e This Scene also receives collateral assistance, exhibiting\n    and explaining the setting of the tides in all the large oceans\n    and the principal seas of the Earth.\nScene 4.\n_THE SOLAR SYSTEM._\nThis displays the whole Copernican or Solar System, with every planet and\nsatellite in diurnal and annual motion! With awe and deference I offer\nthis daring but humble transcript of creation! Enough, if one idea can be\nadded, to the ingenuous mind, of the attributes and perfections of the\nDeity.\nThe SUN, a huge globe of fire (957,942 miles diameter, and consequently\na million times as large as our Earth, and intended to give light,\nheat, and vegetation, to seven primary and at least eighteen secondary\nworlds) is placed in the centre of the system; and by spots on his disk\nis discovered to turn on his axis in about 25 of our days. These spots\ncannot be permanently fixed, because they are frequently altering in\ntheir shape, situation, number, &c. tho\u2019 some have supposed they have\nseen small indentations on the edge of the Sun, as the spots have passed\nit, and conjectured that a fluid matter surrounded a dark nucleus, which\nsometimes becoming bare, might occasion the transient appearance and\ndisappearance of the spots.\nMERCURY is the first planet in the order of the system; about 3498\nmiles diameter: he moves round the Sun with the greatest velocity of\nany of the Planets familiar to our system (as being nearest the Sun) in\nabout 88 of our days; at the rate of 110,680 English miles every hour,\nbut the angle of his distance from the Sun, as seen by us, is so small,\nthat unless by the telescope, we can seldom discern him[2]; (and even\nthen an equatorial instrument to direct to its place, as indicated by\nthe Ephemeris, will be requisite;) and when we do, it is for so short a\ntime, and in twilight, that we can discover no spots on his face, and\ntherefore to this hour know nothing of the length of his days and nights:\nwe see him partially enlightened like the Moon, sometimes like a small\ncrescent, in other situations half enlightened, and sometimes gibbous or\noval, and are therefore certain he derives his light from the Sun, as she\ndoes: so that no doubt he is a fellow world, with inhabitants adapted to\nthe heat of his situation: altho\u2019 this heat is seven times as great as\nthat of the Earth. He is not much larger than the Moon. Our Earth, viewed\nfrom Mercury, must appear much larger and more luminous than any of the\nPlanets, except Venus, appears to us.\nVENUS is the next planet in the order of the system, and distinguished\nby her _superior brilliancy_, as the Sun\u2019s light is twice as great to\nthis planet as to the Earth; from this cause she is sometimes visible to\nthe naked eye in full day-light. She is about 70 millions of miles from\nthe Sun, or about twice the distance of Mercury; and like him, but much\nlonger and more conspicuously, appears under the different phases of the\nMoon. These, as we have said, are proofs that both planets borrow their\nlight from the Sun. The orbits of these planets (as well as those of the\nrest of the system) are inclined to the orbit of the Earth. Hence when\nVenus and Mercury are found in the nodes of their orbits between the\nEarth and Sun, they are transferred upon the Sun\u2019s face like small round\nblack spots, and which in fact are partial Eclipses of the Sun; these are\ncalled the TRANSITS of Mercury, or Venus.\nVenus is a little larger than the Earth, or 9360 miles diameter;\nand moves round the Sun in 224\u00bd of our days, at the rate of 80,955\nmiles every hour. From faint spots seen upon her surface, Mr. Shroeter\napprehends she revolves on her axis in 23 hours, 21 minutes; that her\nsurface is irregular like that of the Moon, and some of her mountains\nfour miles high. The atmosphere of Venus has been calculated to be 50\nmiles high: and the Sun would appear to the inhabitants of this planet\ntwice as large as to us. When Venus is to the west of the Sun, she is\na morning star; when to the east of him, an evening star: her orbit or\ntrack is included by the Earth\u2019s, and as both move the same way, she\nappears to be on one side of the Sun longer than the 224\u00bd days she is in\ngoing round him. The axis of Venus is said by some astronomers to incline\n75 degrees to the axis of her orbit: and therefore her seasons vary very\nfast, the Sun passing over more of her from pole to pole in one day, than\nover the Earth in a quarter of a year. Hence the heated places of this\nplanet have time to cool: which suggest to our ideas that provision has\nbeen made for inhabitants, that they might not suffer by their vicinity\nto the Sun; this circumstance also gives her two winters and two summers\nat her equator, and indicates her inhabited. The discovery lately made\nby Mr. Shroeter, of a light faintly extended beyond the bounds of direct\nsolar illumination, when she has her falcated appearance like the Moon\nnear to her change, strengthens this probability: as these are signs of\ntwilight, and of an atmosphere. This astronomer has also observed her\nto have considerable mountains; another character of a globe suited for\nhabitation.\nThe EARTH is the third planet in the order of the system: 8244 miles\ndiameter\u2014moves at the rate of 68,856 miles every hour, and hence\ncompletes its revolution in its orbit (the Ecliptic) in 365 days and \u00bc.\nThe MOON\u2019s diameter is 2183 miles; she moves with respect to the Earth\n2290 miles in her orbit every hour; and goes round the Earth from change\nto change in 29 days and a half. But having devoted so much of this tract\nto the ph\u00e6nomena of the Earth, as well as its satellite the Moon, we\nproceed to\nMARS, known in the heavens by his peculiarly red appearance, arising\nfrom a very thick and dense atmosphere. This Planet is next above the\nEarth, and hence has considerable less light from the Sun than we have;\nis much smaller than the Earth, or about 4470 miles diameter. He is near\n150 millions of miles from the Sun, and goes round him in something less\nthan two of our years, moving at the rate of 55,783 miles every hour. His\nday and night is rather longer than ours, or 24H. 39M. 22S. and uniform\nthroughout his year, so that his axis being perpendicular, he has no\nvariety of seasons. When we pass between the Sun and him he has a most\nfiery and alarming appearance, and is often mistaken for a Comet; but\nwhen we are on the opposite side of our orbit, he appears small, and\nscarcely to be distinguished from a fixed star.\nJUPITER, far the largest of our Planets, near 1300 times the size of\nthe Earth, or 93,333 miles diameter, is the next above Mars, at five\ntimes the distance from the Sun that we are; so that he enjoys but a\ntwenty-fifth part of the light, heat, and attraction of that luminary\nwe do.\u2014Though indeed of the light and heat he may still possess, we are\nnot so certain as of the degree of attraction: that being invariably\nproportioned to the distance; while these will be relative to the density\nand other circumstances of the atmosphere, and the aptness of the surface\nof the Planet to acquire and retain heat: after Venus he appears the most\nbrilliant Planet of the Universe. He is attended with four satellites\nthat revolve very regularly round him. The three first are eclipsed\nevery revolution, and every seventh day come in conjunction with him and\none another, as may be seen on the _Eidouranion_. Longitude, at land,\ncan be ascertained by the eclipses of Jupiter\u2019s satellites, as well as\nby a transit of Venus; and these would supercede the necessity of a\ntime-keeper, if they could be observed at sea; hence, in the Nautical\nAlmanack, these eclipses are very exactly calculated for the meridian\nof Greenwich, and answer very good geographical as well as nautical\npurposes. Jupiter is near twelve years in making his way round the Sun,\naltho\u2019 he moves at the rate of 30,193 miles every hour; he turns round\nhis axis in about ten of our hours, so that his days and nights are\nbut five hours each: and he has no variety of seasons; for his axis\nis perpendicular to the plane of his orbit. Turning so swiftly on his\naxis, his figure becomes more oblate than that of the Earth, being more\nthan 6000 miles longer in diameter from one side of his equator to the\nother, than from pole to pole, or in the proportion of 13 to 14.[3] This\nswiftness of his diurnal motion also draws his clouds and vapours into\nstreaks or lines over his equatorial parts, forming what are called\nJupiter\u2019s Belts. An eclipse of the Sun, by this great planet, would be a\nstriking object even to the unassisted sight as viewed from Saturn.\nSATURN, 85,782 miles in diameter or about 1000 times as large as the\nEarth, is still a more remote planet from the Sun, round which he\nrevolves in about 30 of our years, at the distance of 916 millions of\nmiles. He moves in his orbit at the rate of 22,298 miles every hour,\nand upon his axis in 10H. 16M. by this swift revolution on his axis his\nfigure becomes oblate in the proportion of 11 to 10, and his atmosphere\nand vapours are drawn like a quintuple belt of 3 darker parts and 2\nlighter upon his body. Saturn is attended by seven Satellites, the\noutermost has been long known to have a period of apparent augmentation\nand diminution, and hence probably to have a revolution on its axis, and\nbe composed of land and water.\nA large, broad, double, and luminous _ring_ of 200,157 miles diameter,\nsurrounds Saturn, at a distance from the planet equal to the breadth\nof the ring.\u2014This ring inclines about 30 degrees to the plane of\nthe ecliptic, and must appear like a great arch of light to the\ninhabitants of Saturn. It has a revolution every eleven hours on an axis\nperpendicular to its plane, and keeps parallel to itself at all times;\nhence it disappears twice every 30 years, when its edge is presented to\nus; the Sun shines for near 15 of our years together on the northern\nplane of the ring; and then leaving it, illumines the southern side for\nthe same period; so there is but one day and one night on each side of\nthe ring, but each will be of 15 years continuance without intermission.\nThe Sun\u2019s direct light being but about a 90th part so strong to Saturn\nas to the Earth, this ring is no doubt intended to increase it, by\nreflecting a very considerable portion upon the planet, which added to\nthat from his seven Satellites, must render him a very comfortable abode\nfor rational and brute inhabitants.\nThe GEORGIUM SIDUS, or Georgian Planet (so called by Dr. Herschell,\nits ingenious and indefatigable discoverer) makes the seventh in the\norder of the system; the other planets we have described have been\nknown as such to the highest antiquity, but from its extreme smallness,\nthis has escaped ascertainment till the year 1781, although it had been\nrecognized as a very minute star by several astronomers. It is near\ntwice Saturn\u2019s distance from the Sun, and will be near eighty-two years\nand six months in going round him; is of a pale colour, and much larger\nin its telescopic appearance than the fixed stars, being 100 times as\nlarge as the Earth, or 37,230 miles diameter, and, on a clear evening,\nis visible to the naked eye. The Dr. has discovered six satellites to\nthis planet, some of which are said to move retrograde. As familiarity\nis the principal design of this Treatise and Lecture, it may be useful\nto exhibit the distances of the planets from the Sun in the most concise\nform, and in numbers they will stand thus:\u2014if the distance from the Sun of\n    Mercury\u2014Venus\u2014Earth\u2014Mars\u2014Jupiter\u2014Saturn\u2014Georgium Sidus\nor, if a body projected from the Sun should continue to fly at the rate\nof 480 miles per hour, (which is about the swiftness of a cannon-ball),\nit could reach the orbit of Mercury in 9 years, Venus in 16 years, the\nEarth in 23 years, Mars in 34 years, Jupiter in 118 years, Saturn in 216\nyears, and the Georgium Sidus in 432 years.\nThese we consider as the regular bodies of our system; so regular,\nindeed, that every ph\u00e6nomenon respecting them is calculated for years\nbefore hand, and it is almost considered as a criminal error to be a\nminute of time wrong in the calculation. But we are sometimes visited by\nCOMETS, which may also be recognized as a part of our system: of these\nour knowledge is very imperfect. By supposing that the same Comet has\nappeared at equal intervals of time; by observing that, like the planets,\nthey describe equal areas in equal times; and by having three points in\nan ellipsis given to make out its eccentricity; from these data it was\nnatural for mathematicians to suppose they could calculate the return of\nall Comets that had been scientifically observed: but the actual return\neven of that conspicuous one expected by Dr. Halley, has been thought by\nsome not to be sufficiently ascertained: yet, on examining the balance\nof probability, as stated by Maupertius, Lalande, Messire and Martin,\nfor its re-appearance, probably this doubt will be greatly lessened, if\nnot removed. As new Comets are almost perpetually appearing, on which\ncalculation hitherto has been silent, there is reason to expect, in a\nproper period of time, an adequate number of observations to decide the\nquestion, whether in general they revolve at stated times, or traverse\nour system without probability of return. Perhaps Comets of each\ndescription time and observation may confirm to us. We know that Comets\naccompanied with tails come very near the Sun, and from all quarters\nof the Heavens! that the tails keep opposite to the Sun; consequently\nthey are only visible to us when seen obliquely to the Sun. Thus the\nComet of August, 1797, was observed to have little or no train during\nany part of its appearance; but a faint hazy light diffused round it;\nthese trains, like electrical and borealean light, do not refract the\nlight of the fixed stars, &c. The appearance of the Comet of 1682, is\ncopied in the _Eidouranion_. It descends from the top of the Machine;\nits train increasing in length and lustre till it arrives at the Sun,\ndiminishing as it ascends. Its orbit is so eccentric that the small part\nof it visible is not sensibly to be distinguished from the parabolic\ncurve; and in this representation it finally disappears in the roof of\nthe Theatre; it being impossible, if its return were ascertained, to\nrepresent the extent of such an orbit, and its motion in it, with any\ndegree of suitable proportion. The velocity of such of these as approach\nnearest to the Sun, particularly of the Comet of 1680, (whose appearance\nwas tremendous) exceeds any swiftness that falls within observation;\nexcept that of the rays of light; it being nearly 2000 times greater\nthan the swiftness of a cannon-ball, at the instant of its discharge;\nyet scarcely a thousandth part of the velocity of light passing from\nthe Sun[4]. This Comet approached to within 40,000 miles of the Sun\u2019s\nsurface, and was calculated to be heated 2000 times hotter than red hot\niron; a globe of iron the size of the Earth in this heat, would be 50,000\nyears in cooling. These amazing visiters, whom philosophy contemplates\nwith awe very different from that terror with which superstition had\nlong viewed them, moving in such amplitude of space, so numerous as they\nare, and so great as some of them, must have functions assigned to them\nproportionally important: either occasionally of terrific revolution;\nor more generally of recruiting the atmosphere of the planets in their\nsuccessive appulse to any of them, and supplying the diminution of the\nsolar fires. Perhaps too they are useful in preventing the central\ntendency of the planets to the Sun, from increasing more than in a\ncertain degree; so that the apparent disturbances, thus produced, will be\npart of the necessary order and harmony of the system.\nIt is probable (though their orbits are so much oblique in all\ndirections to those of the planets, that it can rarely happen) that\nComets may be instrumental to great shocks; either by direct collision,\nthe effect of which, considering the velocity and mass of some of them\ncannot be estimated, or by near approach: and of this latter a possible\nresult, and such as seems, in one instance at least, to have already\ntaken place, is noticed in the Remarks annexed to this account of the\n_Eidouranion_. But the philosophic observer will have this reflection\npresented to him from the ph\u00e6nomena of the Universe; that the apparently\ndisturbing and destructive powers are secondary and subservient; while\nthose of the preserving and meliorating kind are primary, continued, and\nuniversal. And those incidental causes of a melancholy and distressing\naspect, when resolved into their ultimate tendency and necessary effects,\nmanifest themselves, in so far as we can trace them, to be parts\nessential to the system of pure and perfect benevolence. Stability and\nduration are stamped on the Universe, and the imagination is lost in\nthe immensity of the prospects; and whether we turn to the past or to\nthe future, our conception vainly pants to grasp the idea of boundless\nEternity.\nBut when we launch in idea into infinite space, and contemplate\nthe systems without number that fill it; here indeed we have a subject\ntruly worthy of the DEITY! Whoever supposes the fixed stars placed in a\nconcave sphere, as they appear to us, must have a narrow and contracted\nidea of the SUPREME BEING; for one star appears large and another small,\nbecause one is immensely distant from us in comparison of another.\nThrough Dr. Herschell\u2019s large telescope many fixed stars appear double:\nthe Polar star is double; (but they are only stars at different distances\nfrom us appearing nearly in the same line) some appear like a topaz,\nothers azure, others red; all are round, and many as perfectly defined\nas a shilling is on black cloth. By telescopes we formerly could see\nthree times the number we can by the naked eye; and now, telescopes\nhaving received further improvement, in the most crouded part of the\nmilky way, 116,000 have passed before the instrument in a quarter of an\nhour. The Nebula of Andromeda must be composed of the united lustre of\nmany millions of stars. Agreeably to this, Dr. Herschell has noticed\nsingle nebulous stars surrounded with a faint equable whiteness; such as\na system of Planets viewed at that distance from us might be supposed\nto give: others he has seen, which have the appearance of yet unformed\nsystems. And there are, we may presume, points of view, in the immensity\nof the Universe, in which all the fixed stars, accessible to the eye\nor telescope from this station of ours, and all the inconceivable\nspace, through which they extend, vanish into a _nebula_, and almost an\nindiscernible point. Such is the order and greatness of that Empire,\nwhich these Discoveries, the farther they are pursued, must for ever\nmore and more present to our increasing admiration. Such the relation of\nparts so astonishingly remote! Such the unity of intelligence, power,\nand preserving goodness which pervades the whole! And why may not stars\nbe so remote, that their light may not have reached the Earth even since\nthe creation! We know that light takes more time in travelling from\nthe nearest stars to us, than we in making a West India voyage, (which\nis usually performed in six weeks) a sound would not arrive to us from\nthence in 50,000 years, nor a cannon-ball in a much longer time. The\nSun\u2019s light could not therefore reach the fixed stars, and be reflected\nback again with their lustre; of course they shine by their own light\u2014if\nso, they shine as our Sun, and consequently are Suns themselves.\u2014Now,\nas a principal of uniformity runs through the variety of nature, it is\nreasonable to conclude these Suns to be centres of systems like ours;\nand destined for the same noble purposes, viz. that of giving light,\nheat, and vegetation, to various worlds that revolve round them, but\nwhich are too remote for discovery, even with our best telescopes!\nThis idea is infinitely too great for the human mind; or indeed for\nthat of any created Being! For how inadequate must the utmost stretch\nof finite faculties be to represent infinity! The stars, disposed in\nconstellations, and surrounded by concentric circles, may perhaps assist\nthe imagination a little: The attempt in SCENE V. if not admired, we\nhope will be forgiven. But was it possible we could actually take our\nflight into infinite space, or be borne on the wings of lightning, to the\nmost distant fixed Star we can now see, even there, perhaps, we should\nfind ourselves on the confines of creation, and see as many stars before\nus as we left behind! For space has neither top nor bottom in it: it\nis a circle whose centre is every where, but whose circumference is no\nwhere! Even systems themselves may have revolutions round one another;\nand account for that difference of distance that we are constantly\nobserving to arise amongst the fixed stars; for new stars appear, rise\ninto magnitude, and then diminish and disappear, which would also be\naccounted for by supposing that our Sun himself is in progressive motion\ntowards some part of infinite space, and carrying his system of worlds\nalong with him. Stars of the _first_ magnitude, in Flamsted\u2019s time,\ndwindle into those of the _third_ or _fourth_, in our time. Some of\nthe stars change their magnitude periodically: as Algol, in Medusa\u2019s\nHead, which rises from the third magnitude to the second, in two days\nand twenty-one hours.\u2014Where such periodical disappearances are short,\nthey have been referred with probability to quick revolutions of such\nstars on their axis, with part of their disk opaque; or to the regular\nintervention of some very considerable Planet to intercept them from\nus. But re-appearances of this kind, after very long intervals, would\nindicate rather a revolution in a great orbit. By analogy we conclude,\nthat at a proper distance our Sun would dwindle into a fixed Star among\nthe rest, and his system of worlds disappear. Now as we see that almost\nevery particle of our globe swarms with life and animals, we cannot\nsuppose the other bodies of our system to be only intended as a faint\nspangle for mortals to gaze at; more especially as they are as well\ncalculated for inhabitants as ours, revolving as regularly round the same\nSun, and seeming to have every other convenience for rational and brute\ninhabitants[5]. But to carry this idea into infinite space; to recognize\nSuns and Systems, above us, below us, to the East, the West, the North,\nthe South; to consider each Sun as the centre of a system like ours, and\nevery world inhabited!\u2014In short, the astonished fancy turns round, and is\nentirely lost and sunk in the abyss of nature! Well might the Psalmist\nsay, that, \u201cThe heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament\nsheweth his handy work.\u201d Well might he express himself as overwhelmed\nwith the idea of the power and omnipresence of the Deity; since all our\ndiscoveries serve only to convince us, that a progress of inexpressible\nextent, continued through ages without number, would find us every where,\nas here, surrounded with his infinite energy, eternity, and immensity,\nfilled with his vital presence.\n[Illustration]\nFOOTNOTES\n[1] Her mountains by some have been calculated nine miles high; but\nDr. Herschell\u2019s telescopes, which magnify 6500 times, have reduced her\nhighest hills to about _two_ miles. Mr. Shroeter apprehends that the\nmountain _Leibnitz_ is not less than 25,000 feet high. The Craters of the\nMoon are from 4 to 15 miles diameter. He discovers some new spots on the\nMoon, and calculates her atmosphere to be 5376 feet high, an height so\ninconsiderable that it might escape our best telescopes or most minute\nobservations.\n[2] It is rather curious how the antients saw so much of him as that\nhis period was tolerably guessed, at least so far back as the days of\nCicero.\u2014_De Nat. Deor. II._ 20. They knew it to be less than the Earth\u2019s:\nwhich, though far from accurate, was a nearer calculation than could be\nthen expected. And this is the more remarkable if Cicero had it from\nPlato, and he from \u00c6gypt and Syria.\n[3] If the Earth turned round its axis in 84 minutes and 43 seconds,\nthe centrifugal _force_ would be equal to the power of gravity at the\nequator; and all bodies there would entirely lose their weight. If the\nEarth revolved quicker, they would all fly off and leave it.\n[4] The velocity of a cannon-ball is about eight miles per minute.\n    Of the Comet in its perihelion    14,600\n[5] Perhaps the inhabitants of one system may be destined successively\nto pass from planet to planet, and from systems to other systems. This\nwould answer, on an immense scale, to the analogy existing on Earth. It\nis stated as a conjecture with much energy and beauty in a late work.\nIllustrat. of Proph. T. II. p. 557, _Anno_ 1796.\nDISSERTATION\nON THE PROBABLE CAUSE OF THE\nDeluge.\nSo perfect are the laws by which this wonderful system is regulated, and\nso effectual that Self-physic which the Almighty has instituted through\nall his works, that if any seeming disorder happens in the system, there\nrequires no immediate interposition to prevent or cure the mischief: each\nbody carrying within itself the principles of preservation and cure; an\nargument of wisdom and foresight worthy of the Deity!\nThe Planet Jupiter was attracted out of his orbit by the enormous Comet\nwhich appeared in the year 1680. The Comet coming across the plane of\nhis track, had a temporary influence upon him; and it is observable, he\nhas not travelled by the same fixed stars since that period which he did\nbefore it; and no doubt but his usual motion was momentarily retarded,\nand the shape of his orbit altered. Now if Jupiter consists of land and\nwater (and by the spots seen on his face it is more than probable) it is\npossible he might experience a revolution something similar to our flood;\nfor that our flood was occasioned by the near approach of a Comet, is a\nmost natural supposition, and in no wise militates against the scriptural\ndoctrine of that event: it being as easy, and as consistent for the\nAlmighty, to render justice by a secondary cause, as by an immediate\ninterposition. Nor is his attribute of mercy arraigned by the promiscuous\ndestruction the deluge occasioned; for it is evident, by reasoning from\nhis works, that he governs the universe by \u201cgeneral, not by partial laws.\u201d\nThe vestiges of the Deluge are so remarkable, both on the surface and\nwithin the bowels of the Earth, that if examined without prejudice, they\nprove, I think, beyond a doubt, that awful revolution to have been the\nwork of a Comet. Not that the moisture of its tail drowned the World,\nas was unphilosophically suggested by Whiston; but if the attraction of\nthe Moon be capable of raising the water of the sea above its common\nlevel, what effects might not be supposed from the near approach of a\nbody perhaps many thousand times larger than the Moon? If a tide by such\nan attraction was raised three or four miles above the level of the Sea,\nthe Earth, by turning on its axis, would have that protuberance dragged\nover the land, and its surface would be plowed up into those inequalities\nwe call mountains; for that mountains are not of eternal duration, is\nevident from their growing less, even in the memory of man. For every\nthing tends to a level. Rains falling on mountains wash down their\nasperities; this matter bemuds the rivers, and banks out the sea; rocks\nthemselves yield up their fantastic forms to the effects of air, water,\nand heat; and land has been growing into the water ever since the Deluge.\nBut why should all assemblages of mountains be arranged like little\nridges of sand on the sea shore? Doubtless by having been produced by a\nsuperior tide, and left to dry by an unreturning sea. Almost all great\nranges of mountains run North and South; the Andes of the Cordelleras;\nthe mountains of the Moon in Africa; the Dophranes, Caucasus, Allegany,\n&c.\u2014the Alps and Pyrenees excepted.\nAs Comets visit our system in all directions, why might not that in\nquestion have its motion from North to South, and dragging the sea after\nit, determine the mountains to those points of the compass? Whence\ncome the shells and fish bones we meet with on the tops of the highest\nmountains? We have not discovered any power in nature disposed to work\nsuch quantities of them thro\u2019 the bowels of the Earth; and indeed\nimagination has not yet been so wild as to carry them thither: they are\nnot a fortuitous assemblage of atoms assuming such forms; not _lusus\nnatur\u00e6_, but _bona fide_, shells and fish bones, such as we meet with on\nthe sea shore! We find them also deep buried in the bowels of the ground,\nfar from the sea; we find them in rocks, and often converted into stone:\nnay, may not the fat of fish, joined with vegetable substances, form the\nbitumen of coal? We have experiments that warrant such a suggestion.\nNow if ever the Sea was dragged over the surface of the Earth by the\nattraction of a Comet, these effects must naturally follow.\nIn digging into the bowels of the Earth, we have still stronger evidence\nthat the flood was occasioned by the near approach of a Comet. It is well\nascertained, that the united attraction of every atom of the Earth forms\nthat Earth into a dense ball, and not any particular attraction in its\ncentre.\u2014All matter being therefore affected by this power in proportion\nto its density, one might conclude that the heaviest bodies would lie\ndeepest, and the lightest near the surface, but this is by no means the\ncase: Coal is lighter than stone; various minerals lie upon light earths,\n&c. evidently proving, that the general order of nature has at some time\nbeen disturbed, and the manner in which matter obeys the laws of gravity\ndisarranged. Hence the philosophic miner finds strata of various density\nin digging downwards; and in pursuing his vein of ore, finds these\nstrata broken and divided; nay, if he loses the vein, he can easily tell\nwhere to find it again, by the manner in which it broke off. In this he\nnever is mistaken: He sees, as it were, through many fathoms of Earth!\nevidently suggesting, that some revolution on the Earth has broken up its\nnaturally arranged strata, and introduced this \u201cregular confusion.\u201d\nThe various strata of the Earth seldom lie on one another horizontally:\nthey generally dip; and near the shore commonly incline towards the\nsea. On the South coast of England, the rocks incline Southerly; on the\nopposite coast of France they incline to the North. Is it not probable,\nthat at the Deluge, the horizontal stratum was broken between these\ncountries: and the ends falling lowest at the breach, formed the channel,\ninto which the sea flowed, when it lost the influence of the Comet,\nand again obeyed the power of gravity? Countries separated by narrow\nchannels, universally have their shores inclining towards the sea;\nshewing that the general geography was at that time altered.\nIt is true, we have an old doctrine revived, and supported by\nrespectable authority, that mountains were formed originally by those\neruptions we call volcanos. The votaries of this theory pronounce the\nhollows and cavities on the tops and sides of mountains, Craters, or\nthe cups of extinguished volcanos; and if the stone of the mountain\nbe of a bluish colour, then it is declared Lava; and the proof of a\nvolcano having existed there becomes incontrovertible! History, however,\naffords us very few instances of mountains so formed. Yet this doctrine\nseems to have received very just authority from the last scientific\ncircumnavigators. The rocks which surround the islands of the Pacific\nOcean, generally break off perpendicularly about a mile out at sea, which\nmakes their approach very difficult and dangerous; and as the stratum\nimmediately under the loam of the surface has an ashy, or lava-like\nappearance, the voyagers very naturally concluded, that the immense\nnumber of small islands which stud that extensive ocean, were the product\nof subaqueous eruptions. Still if I might be allowed to hazard an opinion\nagainst such respectable authority, I should rather apprehend that the\nPacific Ocean had been once a continent, and that at the Deluge, when\nthe Earth\u2019s surface was disarranged and broken up by the violent motion\nof the waters, the general body of it sunk beneath the level, or was\nwashed away to other parts, leaving only the more elevated and solid part\nremaining. For volcanos throw up matter piece-meal; islands, therefore,\nformed by them, would have a sloping, or gradually sinking shore: whereas\nthe islands of the Great South Sea are surrounded by perpendicular rocks,\nthat sink in that direction to an almost unfathomable depth in the sea.\nBesides, how can we account for that similarity of manners, customs,\ncolour, and even, language, among the inhabitants of islands so distant,\nthat no mode of navigation they practice could ever make them acquainted,\nor have any communication with one another? If these islands were thrown\nup from the bottom of the sea, their inhabitants would not be thrown up\nwith them, and all with the same custom and language. Now if this immense\npart of the globe was a continent before the Deluge, the inhabitants\nmight be alike; and if the elevated parts were above the subsiding\nwater, (a circumstance more than probable) inhabitants might be saved\nupon them, with every circumstance of similarity we find among them; for\nthat revolution is not of so remote a date, but remains of antediluvian\nmanners might exist at this time.\n    _Sic undique omni ratione concluditur, mente consilioque\n    divino omnia in hoc mundo ad salutem omnium conservationemque\n    administrari. Quo Spectaculo nihil potest admirabilius esse,\n    nihil pulchrius. Quid tam apertum, tamque perspicuum, c\u00f9m c\u0153lum\n    suspeximus, c\u00e6lestiaque contemplati sumus, qu\u00e0m aliquod esse\n    Numen pr\u00e6stantissim\u00e6 mentis, qua h\u00e6c regantur?_\n    CIC. DE NAT. DEOR.\n_Heads of Mr. Walker, sen.\u2019s_\nLectures,\nIN CONDUIT-STREET, HANOVER-SQUARE,\nRead every Monday, Wednesday, & Friday, during Winter,\nAT ONE,\n_On an Explanatory Apparatus_,\nThe most extensive and elegant.\nONE GUINEA THE COURSE.\n    I. On the general Properties of Matter, Magnetism, &c.\n    II. On the Laws of Motion, Mechanics, Machines of Agriculture,\n    Mills, Cranes, &c.\n    III. On the Principles of Chemistry.\n    IV. On Pneumatics, or the Weight and Spring of the Air, Musical\n    Vibrations, &c.\n    V. On the Gasses and new Discoveries in the Air.\n    VI. On the Hydrostatics, or the Motion and Pressure of Water,\n    Canals, Aqueducts, Machines, Ships, &c.\n    VII. On Electricity, its Laws, Effects, Circuits, Shocks, &c.\n    VIII. Ditto, negative and positive, Lightning, Thunder,\n    Galvanism, Medical Electricity, &c.\n    IX. On Optics, Laws of Light, Vision, Lenses, &c.\n    X. On the Figure and Motions of the Earth.\n    XI. On the Phases, Eclipses, &c. of the Moon, and on the Tides.\n    XII. On the Solar System in general, with the new Discoveries.\nThis Course may be read privately for 50 Guineas, or to General\nSubscription amounting to 70 Guineas, on application to Mess. Walker,\nsen. or jun.\nIpswich: printed by Burrell & Bransby.\nEnd of the Project Gutenberg EBook of An epitome of astronomy, with the new\ndiscoveries, by W. 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{"source_document": "", "creation_year": 1796, "culture": " English\n", "content": "Produced by Suzanne Shell, Sankar Viswanathan, and the\n  \"There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there\n  is neither male nor female, for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.\"\n                 COLLINS, PRINTER, 705 JAYNE STREET.\nMEMOIR, &C.\n    In the following Narrative of \"Old Elizabeth,\" which\n    was taken mainly from her own lips in her 97th year, her\n    simple language has been adhered to as strictly as was\n    consistent with perspicuity and propriety.\nI was born in Maryland in the year 1766. My parents were slaves. Both\nmy father and mother were religious people, and belonged to the\nMethodist Society. It was my father's practice to read in the Bible\naloud to his children every sabbath morning. At these seasons, when I\nwas but five years old, I often felt the overshadowing of the Lord's\nSpirit, without at all understanding what it meant; and these incomes\nand influences continued to attend me until I was eleven years old,\nparticularly when I was alone, by which I was preserved from doing\nanything that I thought was wrong.\nIn the eleventh year of my age, my master sent me to another farm,\nseveral miles from my parents, brothers, and sisters, which was a\ngreat trouble to me. At last I grew so lonely and sad I thought I\nshould die, if I did not see my mother. I asked the overseer if I\nmight go, but being positively denied, I concluded to go without his\nknowledge. When I reached home my mother was away. I set off and\nwalked twenty miles before I found her. I staid with her for several\ndays, and we returned together. Next day I was sent back to my new\nplace, which renewed my sorrow. At parting, my mother told me that I\nhad \"nobody in the wide world to look to but God.\" These words fell\nupon my heart with ponderous weight, and seemed to add to my grief. I\nwent back repeating as I went, \"none but God in the wide world.\" On\nreaching the farm, I found the overseer was displeased at me for going\nwithout his liberty. He tied me with a rope, and gave me some stripes\nof which I carried the marks for weeks.\nAfter this time, finding as my mother said, I had none in the world to\nlook to but God, I betook myself to prayer, and in every lonely place\nI found an altar. I mourned sore like a dove and chattered forth my\nsorrow, moaning in the corners of the field, and under the fences.\nI continued in this state for about six months, feeling as though my\nhead were waters, and I could do nothing but weep. I lost my appetite,\nand not being able to take enough food to sustain nature, I became so\nweak I had but little strength to work; still I was required to do all\nmy duty. One evening, after the duties of the day were ended, I\nthought I could not live over the night, so threw myself on a bench,\nexpecting to die, and without being prepared to meet my Maker; and my\nspirit cried within me, must I die in this state, and be banished from\nThy presence forever? I own I am a sinner in Thy sight, and not fit to\nlive where thou art. Still it was my fervent desire that the Lord\nwould pardon me. Just at this season, I saw with my spiritual eye, an\nawful gulf of misery. As I thought I was about to plunge into it, I\nheard a voice saying, \"rise up and pray,\" which strengthened me. I\nfell on my knees and prayed the best I could the Lord's prayer.\nKnowing no more to say, I halted, but continued on my knees. My spirit\nwas then _taught_ to pray, \"Lord, have mercy on me--Christ save me.\"\nImmediately there appeared a director, clothed in white raiment. I\nthought he took me by the hand and said, \"come with me.\" He led me\ndown a long journey to a fiery gulf, and left me standing upon the\nbrink of this awful pit. I began to scream for mercy, thinking I was\nabout to be plunged to the belly of hell, and believed I should sink\nto endless ruin. Although I prayed and wrestled with all my might, it\nseemed in vain. Still, I felt all the while that I was sustained by\nsome invisible power. At this solemn moment, I thought I saw a hand\nfrom which hung, as it were, a silver hair, and a voice told me that\nall the hope I had of being saved was no more than a hair; still,\npray, and it will be sufficient. I then renewed my struggle, crying\nfor mercy and salvation, until I found that every cry raised me higher\nand higher, and my head was quite above the fiery pillars. Then I\nthought I was permitted to look straight forward, and saw the Saviour\nstanding with His hand stretched out to receive me. An indescribably\nglorious light was _in_ Him, and He said, \"peace, peace, come unto\nme.\" At this moment I felt that my sins were forgiven me, and the time\nof my deliverance was at hand. I sprang forward and fell at his feet,\ngiving Him all the thanks and highest praises, crying, Thou hast\nredeemed me--Thou hast redeemed me to thyself. I felt filled with\nlight and love. At this moment I thought my former guide took me again\nby the hand and led me upward, till I came to the celestial world and\nto heaven's door, which I saw was open, and while I stood there, a\npower surrounded me which drew me in, and I saw millions of glorified\nspirits in white robes. After I had this view, I thought I heard a\nvoice saying, \"Art thou willing to be saved?\" I said, Yes Lord. Again\nI was asked, \"Art thou willing to be saved in my way?\" I stood\nspeechless until he asked me again, \"Art thou willing to be saved in\nmy way?\" Then I heard a whispering voice say, \"If thou art not saved\nin the Lord's way, thou canst not be saved at all;\" at which I\nexclaimed, \"Yes Lord, in thy own way.\" Immediately a light fell upon\nmy head, and I was filled with light, and I was shown the world lying\nin wickedness, and was told I must go there, and call the people to\nrepentance, for the day of the Lord was at hand; and this message was\nas a heavy yoke upon me, so that I wept bitterly at the thought of\nwhat I should have to pass through. While I wept, I heard a voice say,\n\"weep not, some will laugh at thee, some will scoff at thee, and the\ndogs will bark at thee, but while thou doest my will, I will be with\nthee to the ends of the earth.\"\nI was at this time not yet thirteen years old. The next day, when I\nhad come to myself, I felt like a new creature in Christ, and all my\ndesire was to see the Saviour.\nI lived in a place where there was no preaching, and no religious\ninstruction; but every day I went out amongst the hay-stacks, where\nthe presence of the Lord overshadowed me, and I was filled with\nsweetness and joy, and was as a vessel filled with holy oil. In this\nway I continued for about a year; many times while my hands were at my\nwork, my spirit was carried away to spiritual things. One day as I was\ngoing to my old place behind the hay-stacks to pray, I was assailed\nwith this language, \"Are you going there to weep and pray? what a\nfool! there are older professors than you are, and they do not take\nthat way to get to heaven; people whose sins are forgiven ought to be\njoyful and lively, and not be struggling and praying.\" With this I\nhalted and concluded I would not go, but do as other professors did,\nand so went off to play; but at this moment the light that was in me\nbecame darkened, and the peace and joy that I once had, departed from\nme.\nAbout this time I was moved back to the farm where my mother lived,\nand then sold to a stranger. Here I had deep sorrows and plungings,\nnot having experienced a return of that sweet evidence and light with\nwhich I had been favoured formerly; but by watching unto prayer, and\nwrestling mightily with the Lord, my peace gradually returned, and\nwith it a great exercise and weight upon my heart for the salvation of\nmy fellow-creatures; and I was often carried to distant lands and\nshown places where I should have to travel and deliver the Lord's\nmessage. Years afterwards, I found myself visiting those towns and\ncountries that I had seen in the light as I sat at home at my\nsewing,--places of which I had never heard.\nSome years from this time I was sold to a Presbyterian for a term of\nyears, as he did not think it right to hold slaves for life. Having\nserved him faithfully my time out, he gave me my liberty, which was\nabout the thirtieth year of my age.\nAs I now lived in a neighborhood where I could attend religious\nmeetings, occasionally I felt moved to speak a few words therein; but\nI shrank from it--so great was the cross to my nature.\nI did not speak much till I had reached my forty-second year, when it\nwas revealed to me that the message which had been given to me I had\nnot yet delivered, and the time had come. As I could read but little,\nI questioned within myself how it would be possible for me to deliver\nthe message, when I did not understand the Scriptures. Whereupon I was\nmoved to open a Bible that was near me, which I did, and my eyes fell\nupon this passage, \"Gird up thy loins now like a man, and answer thou\nme. Obey God rather than man,\" &c. Here I fell into a great exercise\nof spirit, and was plunged very low. I went from one religious\nprofessor to another, enquiring of them what ailed me; but of all\nthese I could find none who could throw any light upon such\nimpressions. They all told me there was nothing in Scripture that\nwould sanction such exercises. It was hard for men to travel, and what\nwould women do? These things greatly discouraged me, and shut up my\nway, and caused me to resist the Spirit. After going to all that were\naccounted pious, and receiving no help, I returned to the Lord,\nfeeling that I was nothing, and knew nothing, and wrestled and prayed\nto the Lord that He would fully reveal His will, and make the way\nplain.\nWhilst I thus struggled, there seemed a light from heaven to fall upon\nme, which banished all my desponding fears, and I was enabled to form\na new resolution to go on to prison and to death, if it might be my\nportion: and the Lord showed me that it was His will I should be\nresigned to die any death that might be my lot, in carrying his\nmessage, and be entirely crucified to the world, and sacrifice _all_\nto His glory that was then in my possession, which His witnesses, the\nholy Apostles, had done before me. It was then revealed to me that the\nLord had given me the evidence of a clean heart, in which I could\nrejoice day and night, and I walked and talked with God, and my soul\nwas illuminated with heavenly light, and I knew nothing but Jesus\nChrist, and him crucified.\nOne day, after these things, while I was at my work, the Spirit\ndirected me to go to a poor widow, and ask her if I might have a\nmeeting at her house, which was situated in one of the lowest and\nworst streets in Baltimore. With great joy she gave notice, and at the\ntime appointed I appeared there among a few coloured sisters. When\nthey had all prayed, they called upon me to close the meeting, and I\nfelt an impression that I must say a few words; and while I was\nspeaking, the house seemed filled with light; and when I was about to\nclose the meeting, and was kneeling, a man came in and stood till I\narose. It proved to be a watchman. The sisters became so frightened,\nthey all went away except the one who lived in the house, and an old\nwoman; they both appeared to be much frightened, fearing they should\nreceive some personal injury, or be put out of the house. A feeling of\nweakness came over me for a short time, but I soon grew warm and\ncourageous in the Spirit. The man then said to me, \"I was sent here to\nbreak up your meeting. Complaint has been made to me that the people\nround here cannot sleep for the racket.\" I replied, \"a good racket is\nbetter than a bad racket. How do they rest when the ungodly are\ndancing and fiddling till midnight? Why are not they molested by the\nwatchmen? and why should we be for praising God, our Maker? Are we\nworthy of greater punishment for praying to Him? and are we to be\nprohibited from doing so, that sinners may remain slumbering in their\nsins?\" While speaking these few words I grew warm with _heavenly_\nzeal, and laid my hand upon him and addressed him with gospel truth,\n\"how do sinners sleep in hell, after slumbering in their sins here,\nand crying, 'let me rest, let me rest,' while sporting on the very\nbrink of hell? Is the cause of God to be destroyed for this purpose?\"\nSpeaking several words more to this amount, he turned pale and\ntrembled, and begged my pardon, acknowledging that it was not his wish\nto interrupt us, and that he would never disturb a religious assembly\nagain. He then took leave of me in a comely manner and wished us\nsuccess. After he was gone, I turned to the old sisters who by this\ntime were quite cheered up. You see, said I, if the sisters had not\nfled, what a victory we might have had on the Lord's side; for the man\nseemed ready to give up under conviction. If it had not been for their\ncowardice, we might have all bowed in prayer, and a shout of victory\nhad been heard amongst us.\nOur meeting gave great offence, and we were forbid holding any more\nassemblies. Even the elders of our meeting joined with the wicked\npeople, and said such meetings must be stopped, and that woman\nquieted. But I was not afraid of any of them, and continued to go, and\nburnt with a zeal not my own. The old sisters were zealous sometimes,\nand at other times would sink under the cross. Thus they grew cold, at\nwhich I was much grieved. I proposed to them to ask the elders to send\na brother, which was concluded upon.\nWe went on for several years, and the Lord was with us with great\npower it proved, to the conversion of many souls, and we continued to\ngrow stronger.\nI felt at times that I must exercise in the ministry, but when I rose\nupon my feet I felt ashamed, and so I went under a cloud for some\ntime, and endeavoured to keep silence; but I could not quench the\nSpirit. I was rejected by the elders and rulers, as Christ was\nrejected by the Jews before me, and while others were excused in\ncrimes of the darkest dye, I was hunted down in every place where I\nappointed a meeting. Wading through many sorrows, I thought at times I\nmight as well be banished from this life, as to feel the Almighty\ndrawing me one way, and man another; so that I was tempted to cast\nmyself into the dock. But contemplating the length of eternity, and\nhow long my sufferings would be in that unchangeable world, compared\nwith this, if I endured a little longer, the Lord was pleased to\ndeliver me from this gloomy, melancholy state in his own time; though\nwhile this temptation lasted I roved up and down, and talked and\nprayed.\nI often felt that I was unfit to assemble with the congregation with\nwhom I had gathered, and had sometimes been made to rejoice in the\nLord. I felt that I was despised on account of this gracious calling,\nand was looked upon as a speckled bird by the ministers to whom I\nlooked for instruction, and to whom I resorted every opportunity for\nthe same; but when I would converse with them, some would cry out,\n\"You are an enthusiast;\" and others said, \"the Discipline did not\nallow of any such division of the work;\" until I began to think I\nsurely must be wrong. Under this reflection, I had another gloomy\ncloud to struggle through; but after awhile I felt much moved upon by\nthe Spirit of the Lord, and meeting with an aged sister, I found upon\nconversing with her that she could sympathize with me in this\nspiritual work. She was the first one I had met with, who could fully\nunderstand my exercises. She offered to open her house for a meeting,\nand run the risk of all the church would do to her for it. Many were\nafraid to open their houses in this way, lest they should be turned\nout of the church.\nI persevered, notwithstanding the opposition of those who were looked\nupon as higher and wiser. The meeting was appointed, and but few came.\nI felt much backwardness, and as though I could not pray, but a\npressure upon me to arise and express myself by way of exhortation.\nAfter hesitating for some time whether I would take up the cross or\nno, I arose, and after expressing a few words, the Spirit came upon me\nwith life, and a victory was gained over the power of darkness, and we\ncould rejoice together in His love.\nAs for myself, I was so full I hardly knew whether I was in the body,\nor out of the body--so great was my joy for the victory on the Lord's\nside. But the persecution against me increased, and a complaint was\ncarried forward, as was done formerly against Daniel, the servant of\nGod, and the elders came out with indignation for my holding meetings\ncontrary to discipline--being a woman.\nThus we see when the heart is not inspired, and the inward eye\nenlightened by the Spirit, we are incapable of discerning the mystery\nof God in these things. Individuals creep into the church that are\nunregenerate, and after they have been there awhile, they fancy that\nthey have got the grace of God, while they are destitute of it. They\nmay have a degree of light in their heads, but evil in their hearts;\nwhich makes them think they are qualified to be judges of the\nministry, and their conceit makes them very busy in matters of\nreligion, judging of the revelations that are given to others, while\nthey have received none themselves. Being thus mistaken, they are\ncalculated to make a great deal of confusion in the church, and clog\nthe true ministry.\nThese are they who eat their own bread, and wear their own apparel,\nhaving the form of godliness, but are destitute of the power.\nAgain I felt encouraged to attend another and another appointment. At\none of these meetings, some of the class-leaders were present, who\nwere constrained to cry out, \"Surely the Lord has _revealed_ these\nthings to her\" and asked one another if they ever heard the like? I\nlook upon man as a very selfish being, when placed in a religious\noffice, to presume to resist the work of the Almighty; because He\ndoes not work by man's authority. I did not faint under\ndiscouragement, but pressed on.\nUnder the contemplation of these things, I slept but little, being\nmuch engaged in receiving the revelations of the Divine will\nconcerning this work, and the mysterious call thereto.\nI felt very unworthy and small, notwithstanding the Lord had shown\nhimself with great power, insomuch that conjecturers and critics were\nconstrained to join in praise to his great name; for truly, we had\ntimes of refreshing from the presence of the Lord. At one of the\nmeetings, a vast number of the white inhabitants of the place, and\nmany coloured people, attended--many no doubt from curiosity to hear\nwhat the old coloured woman had to say. One, a great scripturian,\nfixed himself behind the door with pen and ink, in order to take down\nthe discourse in short-hand; but the Almighty Being anointed me with\nsuch a portion of his Spirit, that he cast away his paper and pen, and\nheard the discourse with patience, and was much affected, for the Lord\nwrought powerfully on his heart. After meeting, he came forward and\noffered me his hand with solemnity on his countenance, and handed me\nsomething to pay for my conveyance home.\nI returned, much strengthened by the Lord's power, to go on to the\nfulfilment of His work, although I was again pressed by the\nauthorities of the church to which I belonged, for imprudency; and so\nmuch condemned, that I was sorely tempted by the enemy to turn aside\ninto the wilderness. I was so embarrassed and encompassed, I wondered\nwithin myself whether all that were called to be mouth piece for the\nLord, suffered such deep wadings as I experienced.\nI now found I had to travel still more extensively in the work of the\nministry, and I applied to the Lord for direction. I was often\n_invited_ to go hither and thither, but felt that I must wait for the\ndictates of His Spirit.\nAt a meeting which I held in Maryland, I was led to speak from the\npassage, \"Woe to the rebellious city,\" &c. After the meeting, the\npeople came where I was, to take me before the squire; but the Lord\ndelivered me from their hands.\nI also held meetings in Virginia. The people there would not believe\nthat a coloured woman could preach. And moreover, as she had no\nlearning, they strove to imprison me because I spoke against slavery:\nand being brought up, they asked by what authority I spake? and if I\nhad been ordained? I answered, not by the commission of men's hands:\nif the Lord had ordained me, I needed nothing better.\nAs I travelled along through the land, I was led at different times to\nconverse with white men who were by profession ministers of the\ngospel. Many of them, up and down, confessed they did not believe in\nrevelation, which gave me to see that men were sent forth as ministers\nwithout Christ's authority. In a conversation with one of these, he\nsaid, \"You think you have these things by revelation, but there has\nbeen no such thing as revelation since Christ's ascension.\" I asked\nhim where the apostle John got his revelation while he was in the Isle\nof Patmos. With this, he rose up and left me, and I said in my spirit,\nget thee behind me Satan.\nI visited many remote places, where there were no meeting houses, and\nheld many glorious meetings, for the Lord poured out his Spirit in\nsweet effusions. I also travelled in Canada, and visited several\nsettlements of coloured people, and felt an open door amongst them.\nI may here remark, that while journeying through the different states\nof the Union, I met with many of the Quaker Friends, and visited them\nin their families. I received much kindness and sympathy, and no\nopposition from them, in the prosecution of my labours.\nOn one occasion, in a thinly settled part of the country, seeing a\nFriend's meeting house open, I went in; at the same time a Friend and\nhis little daughter followed me. We three composed the meeting. As we\nsat there in silence, I felt a remarkable overshadowing of the Divine\npresence, as much so as I ever experienced any where. Toward the\nclose, a few words seemed to be given me, which I expressed, and left\nthe place greatly refreshed in Spirit. From thence I went to Michigan,\nwhere I found a wide field of labour amongst my own colour. Here I\nremained four years. I established a school for coloured orphans,\nhaving always felt the great importance of the religious and moral\n_agri_culture of children, and the great need of it, especially\namongst the coloured people. Having white teachers, I met with much\nencouragement.\nMy eighty-seventh year had now arrived, when suffering from disease,\nand feeling released from travelling further in my good Master's\ncause, I came on to Philadelphia, where I have remained until this\ntime, which brings me to my ninety-seventh year. When I went forth, it\nwas without purse or scrip,--and I have come through great tribulation\nand temptation--not by any might of my own, for I feel that I am but\nas dust and ashes before my almighty Helper, who has, according to His\npromise, been with me and sustained me through all, and gives me now\nfirm faith that he will be with me to the end, and, in his own good\ntime, receive me into His everlasting rest.", "source_dataset": "gutenberg", "source_dataset_detailed": "gutenberg -  Memoir of Old Elizabeth, A Coloured Woman\n"},
{"created_timestamp": "07-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0002-0001", "content": "Title: Quincy July 12. Tuesday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Yesterday mow\u2019d all the Grass on Stony field Hill. To day ploughing for Hilling among the Corn over against the House. Brisler laying the foundation of the new Barn which is to be rais\u2019d tomorrow, at the East End of my Fathers barn. Puffer and Sullivan Lathrop ploughing among Potatoes in the lower Garden.\n       This Journal is commenced, to allure me into the habit of Writing again, long lost. This habit is easily lost but not easily regained. I have, in the Course of Life, lost it several times and regained it as often. So I will now. I can easily credit the Reports I have heard of Dr. Robertson the Scottish Historian, who is said to have lost the Habit of Writing for many Years: but he reacquired it, before his death, and produced his Inquiry into the Knowledge of the Ancients of India.\n       In the Course of my Walk, this morning to my new Barn, I met Major Miller, who offered to sell me his Cedar Swamp and Woodlot of 20 Acres, beyond Harmans, descended from his Grandfather and Father. His Price \u00a39 = 30 dollars per Acre. Part of it has never been cutt\u2014Part cutt 20 Years ago and grown up very thick. Billings came home before dinner, but did no Work.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0002-0002", "content": "Title: July 13. Wednesday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       My new Barn is to be raised this Afternoon, a Rod or two from my Fathers which he built when I was two or three Years old\u2014about 58 years ago, or 59.\n       Billings went out to hoe this morning but soon came in. Said he had sprained his Arm and could not work.\n       Billings soon went out towards Captn. Beales\u2019s. Puffer, one of my Workmen from Stoughton, came home late last night. Said Captn. Lindzee had call\u2019d him in and given him a Bottle of Brandy. By what Sympathy do these Tipplers discover one another?\n       This Day my new Barn was raised near the Spot where the old Barn stood which was taken down by my Father when he raised his new barn in 1737. The Frame is 50 by 30\u201313 foot Posts.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0002-0003", "content": "Title: July 14. 1796 Thursday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       The Wind N.W. after a fine rain. A firing of Cannon this morning in the Harbour. I arose by four O Clock and enjoyed the Charm of earliest Birds. Their Songs were never more various, universal, animating or delightful.\n       My Corn this Year, has been injured by two Species of Worms. One of the Size and Shape of a Catterpillar, but of a mouse Colour, lies at the root, eats off the Stalk and then proceeds to all the other Plants in the Hill, till he frequently kills them all. The other is long and slender as a needle, of a bright yellow Colour. He is found in the Center of the Stalk near the Ground where he eats it off, as the Hessian fly eats the Wheat. My Brother taught me, the Method of finding these Vermin, and destroying them. They lie commonly near the Surface.\n       I have been to see my Barn, which looks very stately and strong. Rode up to Braintree and saw where Trask has been trimming Red Cedars. He has not much more to do. He was not at Work. He has probably worked two days since I was there last.\n       It rains at 11. O Clock. The Barley is growing white for the Harvest. My Men are hilling the Corn over the Road. A soft fine rain, in a clock calm is falling as sweetly as I ever saw in April, May or June. It distills as gently as We can wish. Will beat down the grain as little as possible, refresh the Gardens and Pastures, revive the Corn, make the fruit grow rapidly, and lay the foundation of fine Rowen and After feed.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0002-0005", "content": "Title: July 16. 1796 Saturday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Paid off Puffer, for Eleven Days Works at a Dollar a Day. Trask and Stetson at work in the Garden. Sullivan and Bass gone for another Load of Red Cedar Posts. Billing over at Bass\u2019s in the Morning and going up in Town with Seth as usual.\n       Trask told me he had worked 20 days. This day in the Garden makes 21. Monday he is to cutt the Wood in the Swamp on Pens Hill. We got in two Loads the last of our English Hay, and bro\u2019t home a Load of Red Cedars.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0002-0007", "content": "Title: July 18 1796. Monday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Billings is at hoe. The Kitchen Folk say he is steady. A terrible drunken distracted Week he has made of the last. A Beast associating with the worst Beasts in the Neighborhood. Drunk with John Cope\u00adland, Seth Bass &c. Hurried as if possessed, like Robert the Coachman, or Turner the Stocking Weaver. Running to all the Shops and private Houses swilling Brandy, Wine and Cyder in quantities enough to destroy him. If the Ancients drank Wine as our People drink rum and Cyder it is no wonder We read of so many possessed with Devils.\n       Went up to Penns hill. Trask has the Rheumatism in his Arm and is unable to work. He told me that Rattlesnakes began to appear\u2014two on Saturday by Porters and Prays. One kill\u2019d. The other escaped. He told me too of another Event that vex\u2019d, provoked and allarm\u2019d me much more\u2014vizt, That my Horses were Yesterday in such a frenzy at the Church Door, that they frightened the Crowd of People, and frightened a Horse or the People in the Chaise so that they whipp\u2019d their Horse, till he ran over two Children. The children stooped down or fell down, so that the chaise went over them without hurting them. But it must have been almost a Miracle, that they were not kill\u2019d or wounded. I know not when my Indignation has been more excited, at the Coachman for his folly and Carelessness: and indeed at others of the Family for the Carriage going to Meeting at all. As Mrs. A. could not go the Coach ought not to have gone. The Coachman and Footman ought to have gone to Meeting\u2014and the Girls to have walk\u2019d. L. Smith has no Pretentions to ride in a Coach more than Nancy Adams or even Polly Howard. It is spoiling her Mind and her Reputation both, to indulge her Vanity in that Manner. I scolded at the Coachman first and afterwards at his Mistress, and I will scold again and again. It is my Duty. There is no greater Insolence or Tyranny, than sporting with Horses and Carriages among Crouds of People.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0002-0008", "content": "Title: July 19. 1796. Tuesday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       A plentifull Shower of Rain with Thunder and Lightning this Morning. Took a Tea spoonful of Bark in Spirit.\n       Billings steady: but deep in the horrors, gaping, stretching, groaning.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0002-0009", "content": "Title: July 20. 1796. Wednesday. Commencement.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Rode to the Swamp, at the Top of Penns hill. Trask is mowing the Bushes, cutting the Trees, and leaves only the White Oaks which he trims and prunes as high as he can reach. My design is to plough up a Corn field for Burrell, against next Year, in that Inclosure. Walked in the Afternoon over the Hills and across the fields and Meadows, up to the old Plain. The Corn there is as good as any I have seen, excepting two or three Spots. Brisler and Sullivan cutting Sleepers for the Barn. My beautiful Grove, so long preserved by my Father and my Uncle, proves to be all rotten. More than half the Trees We cutt are so defective as to be unfit for any Use but the fire. I shall save the White Oaks, and cutt the rest.\n       I was overtaken with the Rain, at the End of my Walks and returned home in it. Mrs. Tufts, Mrs. Norton, Mrs. Cranch and Mrs. Smith were here.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0002-0015", "content": "Title: July 26. 1796. Tuesday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Cloudy and begins to rain, the Wind at N.E. The Men gone up the Hill to rake the Barley.\n       In conformity to the fashion I drank this Morning and Yesterday Morning, about a Jill of Cyder. It seems to do me good, by diluting and dissolving the Phlegm or the Bile in the Stomach.\n       The Christian Religion is, above all the Religions that ever prevailed or existed in ancient or modern Times, The Religion of Wisdom, Virtue, Equity and Humanity, let the Blackguard Paine say what he will. It is Resignation to God\u2014it is Goodness itself to Man.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0002-0016", "content": "Title: July 27. 1796 Wednesday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Billings and Sullivan making and liming an heap of Manure. They compounded it, of Earth carted in from the Ground opposite the Garden where the Ha! Ha Wall is to be built, of Salt Hay and Seaweed trodden by the Cattle in the Yard, of Horse dung from the Stable, and of Cow dung left by the Cows, over all this Composition they now and then sprinkle a layer of Lime. Bass and Thomas hoeing Potatoes in the lower Garden.\n       I rode up to The Barn, which Mr. Pratt has almost shingled, and over to the Plain, but found My Tenants were at work in my Fathers old Swamp, which I could not reach without more trouble than I was willing to take.\n       Dr. Welsh came up, with two young Gentlemen from New York, Mr. John and Mr. Henry Cruger, the youngest of whom studies with my son Charles as a Lawyer, who gives him an excellent Character. They are journeying Eastward as far as Portland and return by Albany. The Eldest of them has lately return\u2019d from the East Indies.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0002-0017", "content": "Title: July 28. 1796. Thursday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Billings and Sullivan are gone to the Beech for a Load of Seaweed to put into their Hill of Compost. Bass and Thomas hoeing still in the lower Garden. James sick of a Surfeit of fruit.\n       I continue my practice of drinking a Jill of Cyder in the Morning and find no ill but some good Effect.\n       It is more than forty Years since I read Swifts Comparison of Dryden in his Translation of Virgil to The Lady in a Lobster. But untill this Day I never knew the meaning of it. To Day at Dinner seeing Lobsters at Table I enquired after the Lady, and Mrs. Brisler rose and went into the Kitchen to her Husband who sent in the little Lady herself in the Cradle in which she resides. She must be an old Lady\u2014she looks like Dr. Franklin, i.e. like an Egyptian Mummy. Swifts droll Genius must have been amused with such an Object. It is as proper a Subject or rather allusion or Illustration, for Humour and Satyr as can be imagined. A little old Woman in a spacious Habitation as the Cradle is would be a proper Emblem of a President in the new House at Philadelphia.\n       Billing and Sullivan brought up in the Morning a good Load of green Seaweed. Billing and Bass have been carting Dirt and liming the heap of Compost. Sullivan and Thomas threshing Barley at the little Barn. Billing and Bass brought up a second Load of Seaweed at night.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0002-0018", "content": "Title: July 29. 1796. Fryday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Hot after Thunder, Lightening and an Hours Rain. The two Lathrops threshing. Billing and Bass carting Earth. Lathrops threshing. Billing and Bass brought up a third Load of Seaweed. They go on making the Heap of Compost with Lime, Seaweed, Earth, Horse Dung, Hogs dung &c.\n       Still reading the Second Volume of Petrarchs Life.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0002-0019", "content": "Title: July 30th. Saturday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       All hands carting Earth and making Compost, i.e. 4 hands Billings, Bass and the two Lathrops. Billings is in his Element. Building Wall and making manure are his great delights, he says. He says he will cover all my Clover with green Seaweed. Drop part of a Load on the lower Part and carry the rest up the hill to the Barley Stubble. He will make a heap of Compost too upon the Top of the Hill to dung the Corn in the holes next Year upon the Piece which I propose to break up, and he will make an heap of Compost in the Spring with winter Dung to dung Corn beyond the Ditch. He will get a Scow load of Rockweed, and Scow loads of Seaweed and marsh mud. If he did not execute as well as plann, I should suppose this all Gasconade. But he is the most ingenious, the most laborious, the most resolute and the most indefatigable Man I ever employed.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0002-0020", "content": "Title: July 31. 1796. Sunday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       A fine N.W. Wind, pure Air, clear Sky, and bright Sun. Reading the second Volume of Petrarchs Life. This singular Character had very wild Notions of the Right of the City of Rome to a Republican Government and the Empire of the World. It is strange that his Infatuation for Rienzi did not expose him to more Resentment and greater Danger. In the Absence of the Pope at Avignon, and the People having no regular Check upon the Nobles, these fell into their usual Dissentions, and oppressed the People till they were ripe to be duped by any single Enthusiast, bold Adventurer, ambitious Usurper, or hypocritical Villain who should, with sufficient Imprudence, promise them Justice, Humanity Clemency and Liberty. One or all of these Characters belonged to Rienzi, who was finally murdered by the People whom he had deceived, and who had deceived him.\n       Tacitus appears to have been as great an Enthusiast as Petrarch for the Revival of the Republic, and universal Empire. He has exerted the Vengeance of History upon the Emperors, but has veiled the Conspiracies against them, and the incorrigible Corruption of the People, which probably provoked their most atrocious Cruelties. Tyranny can scarcely be practiced upon a virtuous and wise People.\n       Mr. Whitcomb preached and dined with me.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0002", "content": "Title: [July 1796]\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n      Quincy July 12. Tuesday.\n       Yesterday mow\u2019d all the Grass on Stony field Hill. To day ploughing for Hilling among the Corn over against the House. Brisler laying the foundation of the new Barn which is to be rais\u2019d tomorrow, at the East End of my Fathers barn. Puffer and Sullivan Lathrop ploughing among Potatoes in the lower Garden.\n       This Journal is commenced, to allure me into the habit of Writing again, long lost. This habit is easily lost but not easily regained. I have, in the Course of Life, lost it several times and regained it as often. So I will now. I can easily credit the Reports I have heard of Dr. Robertson the Scottish Historian, who is said to have lost the Habit of Writing for many Years: but he reacquired it, before his death, and produced his Inquiry into the Knowledge of the Ancients of India.\n       In the Course of my Walk, this morning to my new Barn, I met Major Miller, who offered to sell me his Cedar Swamp and Woodlot of 20 Acres, beyond Harmans, descended from his Grandfather and Father. His Price \u00a39 = 30 dollars per Acre. Part of it has never been cutt\u2014Part cutt 20 Years ago and grown up very thick. Billings came home before dinner, but did no Work.\n      July 13. Wednesday.\n       My new Barn is to be raised this Afternoon, a Rod or two from my Fathers which he built when I was two or three Years old\u2014about 58 years ago, or 59.\n       Billings went out to hoe this morning but soon came in. Said he had sprained his Arm and could not work.\n       Billings soon went out towards Captn. Beales\u2019s. Puffer, one of my Workmen from Stoughton, came home late last night. Said Captn. Lindzee had call\u2019d him in and given him a Bottle of Brandy. By what Sympathy do these Tipplers discover one another?\n       This Day my new Barn was raised near the Spot where the old Barn stood which was taken down by my Father when he raised his new barn in 1737. The Frame is 50 by 30\u201313 foot Posts.\n   Capt. Benjamin Beale had built a large house just to the west of JA\u2019s property in 1792 (HA2, MS Notes in Adams Papers Editorial Files). This house is still standing.\n   John Linzee, a former British naval officer who had married a niece of the Boston merchant John Rowe, resigned his commission in 1791 and settled in Milton (Rowe, Letters and DiaryLetters and Diary of John Rowe, Boston Merchant, 1759\u20131762, 1764\u20131779, ed. Anne Rowe Cunningham, Boston, 1903., p. 10\u201313 and passim).\n      July 14. 1796 Thursday.\n       The Wind N.W. after a fine rain. A firing of Cannon this morning in the Harbour. I arose by four O Clock and enjoyed the Charm of earliest Birds. Their Songs were never more various, universal, animating or delightful.\n       My Corn this Year, has been injured by two Species of Worms. One of the Size and Shape of a Catterpillar, but of a mouse Colour, lies at the root, eats off the Stalk and then proceeds to all the other Plants in the Hill, till he frequently kills them all. The other is long and slender as a needle, of a bright yellow Colour. He is found in the Center of the Stalk near the Ground where he eats it off, as the Hessian fly eats the Wheat. My Brother taught me, the Method of finding these Vermin, and destroying them. They lie commonly near the Surface.\n       I have been to see my Barn, which looks very stately and strong. Rode up to Braintree and saw where Trask has been trimming Red Cedars. He has not much more to do. He was not at Work. He has probably worked two days since I was there last.\n       It rains at 11. O Clock. The Barley is growing white for the Harvest. My Men are hilling the Corn over the Road. A soft fine rain, in a clock calm is falling as sweetly as I ever saw in April, May or June. It distills as gently as We can wish. Will beat down the grain as little as possible, refresh the Gardens and Pastures, revive the Corn, make the fruit grow rapidly, and lay the foundation of fine Rowen and After feed.\n      July 15. Fryday.\n       A very heavy Shower of Rain. Thunder in the morning. Billings still unable to work\u2014goes over towards Basses first, then up in Town with Seth.\n       Went with 3 hands, Puffer, Sullivan Lathrop and Mr. Bass, to Braintree and cutt between 40 and 50 Red Cedars and with a team of five Cattle brought home 22 of them at a Load. We have opened the Prospect so that the Meadows and Western Mountain may be distinctly seen.\n       Burrell had two hands employed in heaping up Manure in his Barn Yard. The Cattle have broken into his Corn field, through the Gap which We left unfinished in the great Wall, and eaten an hundred hills.\n       The new Barn is boarded on the Roof, and the underpinning is finished.\n      July 16. 1796 Saturday.\n       Paid off Puffer, for Eleven Days Works at a Dollar a Day. Trask and Stetson at work in the Garden. Sullivan and Bass gone for another Load of Red Cedar Posts. Billing over at Bass\u2019s in the Morning and going up in Town with Seth as usual.\n       Trask told me he had worked 20 days. This day in the Garden makes 21. Monday he is to cutt the Wood in the Swamp on Pens Hill. We got in two Loads the last of our English Hay, and bro\u2019t home a Load of Red Cedars.\n       Warm but clear. Billings at home but running down Cellar for Cyder.\n       We are to have a Mr. Hilliard.\n       Yesterday Dr. Tufts and Mr. Otis and Family dined with me. Otis was very full of Elections and had many Things to say about Pinckney and Henry, Jefferson and Burr. He says there was a Caucus at Philadelphia, that they agreed to run Jefferson and Burr\u2014that Butler was offended and left them. O. takes it for granted the P. will retire. Pickering has given out publickly that he will. Mrs. W. takes it for granted that he will. Collections, Packages and Removals of Cloaths and furniture of their own have been made. Anecdotes of Dandridge, and Mrs. W.s Negro Woman. Both disappeared\u2014never heard of\u2014 know not where they are. When the Electors are chosen the Declaration is to be made.\u2014Q. Is this Arrangement made that the Electors may make him the Compliment of an Election after a Nolo, and thus furnish an Apology for Accepting after all the Talk?\n       Mr. Otis confirms the Account of the nomination and Appointment of my Son to be Minister Plenipotentiary of the U.S. at the Court of Portugal. He also confirms the Adjournment of Congress to the Constitutional Day, 1. Monday in December. Mrs. W. is not to return to Philadelphia till November.\n       Mr. Hilliard of Cambridge preached for Us. He is the Son of our old Acquaintance Minister of Barnstable and afterwards at Cambridge. Mr. Quincy and Mr. Sullivan drank Tea with Us.\n   JA\u2019s informant on the political situation was Samuel Allyne Otis, secretary of the U.S. Senate, whose second wife, the former Mary Smith, was AA\u2019s first cousin (Appletons\u2019 Cyclo. Amer. Biog.James Grant Wilson and John Fiske, eds., Appletons\u2019 Cyclopaedia of American Biography, New York, 1887\u20131889; 6 vols., 4:607). The maneuvers by both Federalists and Republicans to obtain the succession to the Presidency were in some degree checked by Washington\u2019s silence concerning his own intentions until the publication of his advice to his countrymen, ever since known as his \u201cFarewell Address,\u201d in Claypoole\u2019s American Daily Advertiser, 19 Sept. 1796.\n   CFA omitted two sentences in the foregoing paragraph: (1) that beginning \u201cAnecdotes of Dandridge,\u201d and (2) JA\u2019s final query to himself. On the sudden disappearance of Bartholomew Dandridge, Mrs. Washington\u2019s nephew and one of the President\u2019s secretaries, see Washington, Writings, ed. FitzpatrickThe Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources, 1745\u20131799, ed. John C. Fitzpatrick, Washington, 1931\u20131944; 39 vols., 35:77\u201379, 135\u2013136, 159, 162. The reasons for it were less discreditable than gossip imputed.\n   JQA, who had been serving as minister resident of the United States at The Hague since 1794, was appointed, with the unanimous consent of the Senate, minister plenipotentiary to Portugal on 30 May 1796 (Commission in Adams Papers under that date; see also AA to JQA, 10 Aug. 1796, Adams Papers). But because of orders from Secretary of State Pickering to remain at The Hague until a replacement could be sent there, JQA never went to Lisbon; instead, he was commissioned in 1797 by his father, now President, to go to Berlin to negotiate a new commercial treaty with Prussia (Commission, 1 June 1797, in Adams Papers; see also Bemis, JQASamuel Flagg Bemis, John Quincy Adams, New York, 1949\u20131956; 2 vols. [Vol. 1:] John Quincy Adams and the Foundations of American Foreign Policy; [vol. 2:] John Quincy Adams and the Union., 1:88\u201390).\n       Billings is at hoe. The Kitchen Folk say he is steady. A terrible drunken distracted Week he has made of the last. A Beast associating with the worst Beasts in the Neighborhood. Drunk with John Cope\u00adland, Seth Bass &c. Hurried as if possessed, like Robert the Coachman, or Turner the Stocking Weaver. Running to all the Shops and private Houses swilling Brandy, Wine and Cyder in quantities enough to destroy him. If the Ancients drank Wine as our People drink rum and Cyder it is no wonder We read of so many possessed with Devils.\n       Went up to Penns hill. Trask has the Rheumatism in his Arm and is unable to work. He told me that Rattlesnakes began to appear\u2014two on Saturday by Porters and Prays. One kill\u2019d. The other escaped. He told me too of another Event that vex\u2019d, provoked and allarm\u2019d me much more\u2014vizt, That my Horses were Yesterday in such a frenzy at the Church Door, that they frightened the Crowd of People, and frightened a Horse or the People in the Chaise so that they whipp\u2019d their Horse, till he ran over two Children. The children stooped down or fell down, so that the chaise went over them without hurting them. But it must have been almost a Miracle, that they were not kill\u2019d or wounded. I know not when my Indignation has been more excited, at the Coachman for his folly and Carelessness: and indeed at others of the Family for the Carriage going to Meeting at all. As Mrs. A. could not go the Coach ought not to have gone. The Coachman and Footman ought to have gone to Meeting\u2014and the Girls to have walk\u2019d. L. Smith has no Pretentions to ride in a Coach more than Nancy Adams or even Polly Howard. It is spoiling her Mind and her Reputation both, to indulge her Vanity in that Manner. I scolded at the Coachman first and afterwards at his Mistress, and I will scold again and again. It is my Duty. There is no greater Insolence or Tyranny, than sporting with Horses and Carriages among Crouds of People.\n   Louisa Catharine Smith (1773?\u20131857), who never married, was the daughter of AA\u2019s errant brother William Smith of Lincoln; she lived for many years with the Adamses, serving as JA\u2019s amanuensis in his old age, and was generously remembered in the wills of both AA and JA (Quincy, First Church, MS Records, 6 June 1857; AA to JA, 3 Jan. 1784, Adams Papers; AA, New LettersNew Letters of Abigail Adams, 1788\u20131801, ed. Stewart Mitchell, Boston, 1947., passim). \u201cNancy\u201d was Ann (1773\u20131818), daughter of Peter Boylston Adams, JA\u2019s brother; in Jan. 1797 she married Josiah Bass of Quincy (Quincy, First Church, MS Records, 2 May 1773; A. N. Adams, Geneal. Hist, of Henry Adams of BraintreeAndrew N. Adams, A Genealogical History of Henry Adams, of Braintree, Mass., and His Descendants, Rutland, Vt., 1898., p. 408). Polly Howard has not been identified.\n       A plentifull Shower of Rain with Thunder and Lightning this Morning. Took a Tea spoonful of Bark in Spirit.\n       Billings steady: but deep in the horrors, gaping, stretching, groaning.\n      July 20. 1796. Wednesday. Commencement.\n       Rode to the Swamp, at the Top of Penns hill. Trask is mowing the Bushes, cutting the Trees, and leaves only the White Oaks which he trims and prunes as high as he can reach. My design is to plough up a Corn field for Burrell, against next Year, in that Inclosure. Walked in the Afternoon over the Hills and across the fields and Meadows, up to the old Plain. The Corn there is as good as any I have seen, excepting two or three Spots. Brisler and Sullivan cutting Sleepers for the Barn. My beautiful Grove, so long preserved by my Father and my Uncle, proves to be all rotten. More than half the Trees We cutt are so defective as to be unfit for any Use but the fire. I shall save the White Oaks, and cutt the rest.\n       I was overtaken with the Rain, at the End of my Walks and returned home in it. Mrs. Tufts, Mrs. Norton, Mrs. Cranch and Mrs. Smith were here.\n   AA\u2019s niece, the former Elizabeth Cranch (1763\u20131811); in 1789 she had married Rev. Jacob Norton, Harvard 1785, recently settled as minister of the First Church of Weymouth (Weymouth Hist. Soc., History of Weymouth, Massachusetts, Weymouth, 1923, 4:444\u2013445).\n      July 21. Thursday.\n       Sullivan Lathrop and Bass carting earth into the Yard from the Ground which is to be thrown into the High Way over against my House. The old Appletree, probably an hundred Years of Age is to fall.\n       Billings and Thomas Lathrop mowing in the Meadow.\n       Six hogsheads of Lime, 50 Gallons each were brought home Yesterday for Manure. I have it of Mr. Brackett, at 15s. the Hdd.\n       I am reading Dr. Watsons Apology for the Bible in Answer to T. Paines 2d Part of Age of Reason.\n       That Appletree, over the Way, to which the Beauty and Convenience of the Road has been sacrificed for an hundred Years, has now in its turn, with Apples enough upon it to make two Barrells of Cyder, fallen a Sacrifice to the Beauty and Convenience of the Road. It has been felled this morning, never to rise again and the Road is to be widened and enlarged. The Stump and Roots are to be dug out of the Ground and the Wall to be removed Back and made an Ha! Ha!\n       Billings had a mind to go upon Wall. I went with him from Place to Place, and could resolve on nothing. I then set him to split and mortise some Posts for the fence vs. Mrs. Veasie. We went up, carried the Posts but when We came there We found that the Wall was too heavy and Stones too large for two hands\u2014four at least were necessary. Billings was wild and We came to some Explanation. He must go off &c. Mrs. Adams paid him off, and then He thought he would not go. After long Conversations Billings came to a Sort of Agreement to stay a Year from this day, at \u00a345. He declared he would not drink Spirit nor Cyder for the whole Year. He reserved however twelve days for himself. We shall see tomorrow Morning how he behaves.\n      July 22. Fryday.\n       Billings sober and steady, persevering in his declaration that he will not drink, these 12 months. Paid Trask in full sixteen Dollars for 24 Days Works. He insisted on 4s. a Day. He has finished clearing the Swamp on Penns Hill this day.\n      July 23. 1796. Saturday.\n       Rode down to the Barley and Black grass at the Beach. The Barley is better than I hoped. The Clover has taken pretty well in general. Parts where the Tide has flowed are kill\u2019d. Weeds very thick round the Margin of the Salt Meadow, or rather Black grass meadow. Twitch Grass scattering and thin. Billings sober, composed as ever. Bass and Brisler mowing with him. James the Coachman, enjoying the Pleasures of a Sportsman, shooting marsh Birds instead of mowing.\n       I rode up to Burrells in Braintree to tell Sullivan and Thomas that they might stay with the Team till they had got in all Burrells Hay. Billings thinks there will be 30 Bushells of Barley at the Beach and 30 Bushells to an Acre on Stony field Hill.\n       Burrells Barn is already nearly full of English Hay and fresh. His Salt Hay, he must stack or stow it in his Barn floor. He has collected his Summer Dung into heaps in his Barn Yard, and has a good deal of it. He will have manure enough, from his Cows and young Cattle, to serve a good Cornfield next Year. His Hogs besides will make a good deal.\n       I have concluded to break up upon Penns Hill a good Corn field on each side of the new Wall, one for Burrell and one for French and Vinton. They may sled or cart the manure in the Winter, and that Land will produce Clover and Herds grass much better than the plain below. I am weary of wasting so much labour and manure upon that dry plain, which is scortched and burnt up in a dry Season.\n       Still reading Bishop Watsons Apology. Finished.\n       My Men mowed the Black Grass and Barley at the Beach, came home and split all the Red Cedars into Posts and morticed some of them. Sullivan morticed after having assisted Burrell to get in all his fresh Hay.\n       Began The Life of Petrarch by Susanna Dobson.\n       We are to have for a Preacher a Mr. Whitcomb.\n       Billings is still cool and steady.\n       In the 1st. Vol. of the Life of Petrarch page 52. it is said that Pope John the 22d believed that the Souls of the Just would not enjoy The Vision of God till after the Universal Judgment and the Resurrection of their Bodies. This Opinion is Priestleys and Price was much inclin\u2019d to it. This Popes imprudent Endeavours to establish this Doctrine, produced an Insurrection of the Cardinals and Court of Rome\u2014Decisions of the Doctors in Theology at Paris &c. and obliged the Pope to retract. Petrarch appears to have favoured his Opinion concerning The Vision of God.\n       Went to Church Forenoon and Afternoon, and heard Mr. Whitcomb of Bolton.\n       Dull Weather but no Rain. The Lathrops with the Team are going to the Swamp on Penns Hill for a Load of Wood that Trask has cutt.\n       Rode up to the Swamp on Penns hill. Sullivan and Bass loaded up a Cord of Wood and Sullivan drove it home. Bass staid and cutt down and cutt up an old Walnut, murdered: by the Women and Children for their Dye Potts, cutt down and cutt up an old Appletree and a Buttonwood Tree. When Sullivan returned he climbed and trimmed two large Buttonwoods. I then left Bass and Sullivan to load their Waggon with the Wood and came home to dinner.\n       Brisler, Billings, Thomas, James and Prince, after mowing the Barley on Stoney field Hill, were gone down to the Beech to rake and heap the Barley ready for Sullivan to bring home, after he shall have unloaded his Wood. The Weather is warm and clear. Sullivan came home, unloaded his Wood, went down to the Beech and brought up all the Black Grass and Barley at one Load, which was so heavy however that he could not ascend the Hill to the little Barn. Brisler, Bass and James raked upon Stony field hill.\n       Cloudy and begins to rain, the Wind at N.E. The Men gone up the Hill to rake the Barley.\n       In conformity to the fashion I drank this Morning and Yesterday Morning, about a Jill of Cyder. It seems to do me good, by diluting and dissolving the Phlegm or the Bile in the Stomach.\n       The Christian Religion is, above all the Religions that ever prevailed or existed in ancient or modern Times, The Religion of Wisdom, Virtue, Equity and Humanity, let the Blackguard Paine say what he will. It is Resignation to God\u2014it is Goodness itself to Man.\n      July 27. 1796 Wednesday.\n       Billings and Sullivan making and liming an heap of Manure. They compounded it, of Earth carted in from the Ground opposite the Garden where the Ha! Ha Wall is to be built, of Salt Hay and Seaweed trodden by the Cattle in the Yard, of Horse dung from the Stable, and of Cow dung left by the Cows, over all this Composition they now and then sprinkle a layer of Lime. Bass and Thomas hoeing Potatoes in the lower Garden.\n       I rode up to The Barn, which Mr. Pratt has almost shingled, and over to the Plain, but found My Tenants were at work in my Fathers old Swamp, which I could not reach without more trouble than I was willing to take.\n       Dr. Welsh came up, with two young Gentlemen from New York, Mr. John and Mr. Henry Cruger, the youngest of whom studies with my son Charles as a Lawyer, who gives him an excellent Character. They are journeying Eastward as far as Portland and return by Albany. The Eldest of them has lately return\u2019d from the East Indies.\n   Thomas Welsh (1752?\u20131831), Harvard 1772, a Boston physician, had in 1777 married Abigail Kent, AA\u2019s first cousin. He and his family maintained very close relations with the Adamses over two or three generations, and Welsh\u2019s successive residences served frequently as headquarters for members of the Adams family when they were in Boston. See a biographical sketch of Welsh in JQA, Life in a New England TownLife in a New England Town: 1787, 1788. Diary of John Quincy Adams, While a Student in the Office of Theophilus Parsons at Newburyport, Boston, 1903., p. 25, note, and another, which adds further details, in Walter L. Burrage, A History of the Massachusetts Medical Society ... 1781\u20131922, [Boston], 1923, p. 32\u201333.\n   CA had been graduated at Harvard in 1789. He then went to New York to live with his parents and was placed in Alexander Hamilton\u2019s law office; but when Hamilton was appointed secretary of the treasury later that year CA was transferred to the office of John Laurance, a Federalist congressman, later a U.S. senator from New York, and a large speculator in wild lands. Upon completing his legal training, CA opened an office of his own in Hanover Square, New York City. In Aug. 1795 he married Sarah, or Sally, Smith, sister of AA2\u2019s husband, WSS; two daughters were born of this marriage. For a time things went well with the family, and CA continued his frequent and affectionate correspondence with his father. But CA had, or developed, intemperate habits and died in his thirty-first year after a brief illness, 30 Nov. 1800, adding another bitter draft to that which his father was obliged to swallow at this very time by losing the election for a second term as President. (JA to Hamil\u00adton, 21 July 1789, and to John Laurance [\u201cLawrence\u201d], 19 Sept. 1789, letterbook copies, Adams Papers. CA to AA, 15 Aug., and to JA, 20 Aug. 1792, Adams Papers. AA to Mrs. Cranch, 8 Dec. 1800, MWA; AA, New LettersNew Letters of Abigail Adams, 1788\u20131801, ed. Stewart Mitchell, Boston, 1947., p. 261\u2013262. JA to F. A. Van der Kemp, 28 Dec. 1800, LbC, Adams Papers; JA, WorksThe Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a Life of the Author, ed. Charles Francis Adams, Boston, 1850\u20131856; 10 vols., 9:576\u2013577. N.Y. Geneal. and Biog. Record, 13:87 [April 1882]. Arthur J. Alexander, \u201cJudge John Laurance, Successful Investor in New York State Lands,\u201d New York History, 42:35\u201345 [Jan. 1944])\n      July 28. 1796. Thursday.\n       Billings and Sullivan are gone to the Beech for a Load of Seaweed to put into their Hill of Compost. Bass and Thomas hoeing still in the lower Garden. James sick of a Surfeit of fruit.\n       I continue my practice of drinking a Jill of Cyder in the Morning and find no ill but some good Effect.\n       It is more than forty Years since I read Swifts Comparison of Dryden in his Translation of Virgil to The Lady in a Lobster. But untill this Day I never knew the meaning of it. To Day at Dinner seeing Lobsters at Table I enquired after the Lady, and Mrs. Brisler rose and went into the Kitchen to her Husband who sent in the little Lady herself in the Cradle in which she resides. She must be an old Lady\u2014she looks like Dr. Franklin, i.e. like an Egyptian Mummy. Swifts droll Genius must have been amused with such an Object. It is as proper a Subject or rather allusion or Illustration, for Humour and Satyr as can be imagined. A little old Woman in a spacious Habitation as the Cradle is would be a proper Emblem of a President in the new House at Philadelphia.\n       Billing and Sullivan brought up in the Morning a good Load of green Seaweed. Billing and Bass have been carting Dirt and liming the heap of Compost. Sullivan and Thomas threshing Barley at the little Barn. Billing and Bass brought up a second Load of Seaweed at night.\n   See Swift\u2019s description of the encounter between Virgil and Dryden in The Battle of the Books (1710): Dryden\u2019s \u201chelmet was nine times too large for the head, which appeared situate far in the hinder part, even like the lady in a lobster, or like a mouse under a canopy of state, or like a shrivelled beau, from within the penthouse of a modern periwig.\u201d\n       Hot after Thunder, Lightening and an Hours Rain. The two Lathrops threshing. Billing and Bass carting Earth. Lathrops threshing. Billing and Bass brought up a third Load of Seaweed. They go on making the Heap of Compost with Lime, Seaweed, Earth, Horse Dung, Hogs dung &c.\n       Still reading the Second Volume of Petrarchs Life.\n      July 30th. Saturday.\n       All hands carting Earth and making Compost, i.e. 4 hands Billings, Bass and the two Lathrops. Billings is in his Element. Building Wall and making manure are his great delights, he says. He says he will cover all my Clover with green Seaweed. Drop part of a Load on the lower Part and carry the rest up the hill to the Barley Stubble. He will make a heap of Compost too upon the Top of the Hill to dung the Corn in the holes next Year upon the Piece which I propose to break up, and he will make an heap of Compost in the Spring with winter Dung to dung Corn beyond the Ditch. He will get a Scow load of Rockweed, and Scow loads of Seaweed and marsh mud. If he did not execute as well as plann, I should suppose this all Gasconade. But he is the most ingenious, the most laborious, the most resolute and the most indefatigable Man I ever employed.\n       A fine N.W. Wind, pure Air, clear Sky, and bright Sun. Reading the second Volume of Petrarchs Life. This singular Character had very wild Notions of the Right of the City of Rome to a Republican Government and the Empire of the World. It is strange that his Infatuation for Rienzi did not expose him to more Resentment and greater Danger. In the Absence of the Pope at Avignon, and the People having no regular Check upon the Nobles, these fell into their usual Dissentions, and oppressed the People till they were ripe to be duped by any single Enthusiast, bold Adventurer, ambitious Usurper, or hypocritical Villain who should, with sufficient Imprudence, promise them Justice, Humanity Clemency and Liberty. One or all of these Characters belonged to Rienzi, who was finally murdered by the People whom he had deceived, and who had deceived him.\n       Tacitus appears to have been as great an Enthusiast as Petrarch for the Revival of the Republic, and universal Empire. He has exerted the Vengeance of History upon the Emperors, but has veiled the Conspiracies against them, and the incorrigible Corruption of the People, which probably provoked their most atrocious Cruelties. Tyranny can scarcely be practiced upon a virtuous and wise People.\n       Mr. Whitcomb preached and dined with me.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0003-0002", "content": "Title: August 2. 1796 Tuesday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Wrote to Mr. Sullivan by Dr. Tufts an Answer to his Inquiries concerning Mitchels Map and St. Croix River.\n       My own Hands with Nathaniel Hayden only and my own oxen only, finished the great Wall upon Penn\u2019s Hill. Mr. Benjamin Shaw and his Wife, (Charity Smith,) drank Tea with Us. He is a Clerk in the Branch Bank at 600 dollars a Year, and She is opening an Accademy of young Ladies for Painting and Music. They live in his Mothers House, and she boards with them. I took a ride with him in his Chaise to the Top of Penns Hill. If innate Levity is curable, they may be happy. If a soft, sweet Voice, a musical Ear, and melodious Modulations, could feed the hungry and cloath the naked, how happy might some People be. She rattles about Independence and boasts of having earned fifty dollars last Month. But the Foible of the Race is rattle.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0003-0006", "content": "Title: August 6. 1796. Saturday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Billings and Bass off by Day for Seaweed. Twin oxen sent to be shod.\n       Omnium Rerum Domina, Virtus. Virtue is The Mistress of all Things. Virtue is The Master of all Things. Therefore a Nation that should never do wrong must necessarily govern the World. The Might of Virtue, The Power of Virtue is not a very common Topick, not so common as it should be.\n       Bass and Billings brought another Load of Seaweed in the Evening for the Swine. Sullivan Lothrop went home. Mrs. A. paid him 15 dollars. Mr. Flynt called at Evening. Tomorrow is the last Sunday of his Engagement at Milton. He then goes a Journey for 3 Weeks after which he returns. Mr. Whitcomb supplies Us in the mean time. Rode up to the burnt Swamp.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0003-0008", "content": "Title: August 8. 1796. Monday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Billing and Bass gone to mowing Salt Grass at the Beach Meadow. T. Lothrop unloading the Sea weed. No Negro but James, who shall be the last.\u2014Agreed with Mr. Reed of Abington to plough for me next Monday &c. Trask half a day mowing bushes.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0003-0010", "content": "Title: August 10. 1796 Wednesday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Billing and Bass collecting Compost. Brought up two Loads of Seaweed and carted several Loads of Earth from behind the Outhouse.\n       Mr. Howell of Rhode Island came up to see me and conversed the whole Evening concerning St. Croix and his Commission for settling that Boundary.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0003-0011", "content": "Title: August 11. 1796. Thursday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Mr. Howell lodged with Us and spent the whole Morning in Conversation concerning the Affairs of his Mission. He said by way of Episode that the President would resign, and that there was one Thing which would make R. Island unanimous in his Successor and that was the funding System. He said they wanted Hamilton for V.P.\u2014I was wholly silent.\n       Billing and Bass brought up a Load of Dulce and Eelgrass and are carting Earth from below the Outhouse. The Lothrops threshing.\n       Mr. Thomas Johnson, only son of Joshua Johnson of London, Consul, came to visit Us and spent the day and night with Us. I carried him to the Pinnacle of Penns Hill to show him the Prospect.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0003-0013", "content": "Title: August 13. 1796 Saturday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Three Load of Salt Hay Yesterday from the Beach Marsh. Got in 51 Bushells of Barley winnowed and raddled. Billing, Bass, Sullivan Lothrop and E. Belcher with Brisler poling off and carting Salt Hay. Tirrell and T. Lothrop threshing. Trask burning Bushes on Penns Hill.\n       Reading Tullys Offices. It is a Treatise on moral obligation. Our Word Obligation answers nearer and better than Duty, to Ciceros Word, officium.\n       Our Men have brought up 3 loads of Salt Hay and left a 4th. stacked upon the Ground. The Barley not all threshed. Prince return\u2019d from Boston.\n       Read much in Tullys Offices.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0003-0015", "content": "Title: August 15. 1796. Monday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       My Team met the Abington Team at the Bars, and plough\u2019d the Baulk between Burrells Corn and the great Wall, with the great Plough.\n       Ploughed on the North Side of the Wall from the Road to the rocky Vally with the small breaking up plough. Trask mowing Bushes and burning. At Night both Teams came home with both Ploughs.\n       Mrs. Adams went with Mrs. Otis to Situate and Plymouth.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0003-0016", "content": "Title: August 16. 1796. Tuesday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Mr. Reed and Mr. Gurney with Billings ploughing below the lower Garden with 9 Cattle, and the small breaking up plough. It took a long time to fix the Plough with a Wheel &c. In the Afternoon ploughed upon Stony field Hill.\n       Sullivan with one Yoke of oxen, the Steers and Mare gone to cart Salt Hay for my Tenants French and Vinton.\n       Tirrell and Thomas still threshing. James and Prince, idle as usual.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0003-0017", "content": "Title: August 17. 1796. Wednesday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Seven Yoke of Oxen and a Horse, Mr. Reed, Mr. Gurney, Mr. Billings, Mr. Brisler, Sullivan and Thomas Lothrop and black James, Seven hands ploughing with the great Plough in the Meadow below the lower Garden. Prince gone to Mill. The Weather dry, fair and cool. The Wind Easterly.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0003-0019", "content": "Title: August 19. 1769 [i.e. 1796]. Fryday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Ten Yoke of Oxen and twelve hands ploughing in the meadow. It is astonishing that such a Meadow should have lain so long in such a State. Brakes, Hassock Grass, Cramberry Vines, Poke or Skunk Cabbage, Button Bushes, alder Bushes, old Stumps and Roots, Rocks, Turtles, Eels, Frogs, were the Chief Things to be found in it. But I presume it may be made to produce Indian and English Grain, and English Grass, especially Herdsgrass in Abundance. At least the Beauty of the Meadow and the Sweetness of it and the Air over it will be improved. Brackets, Vintons and My Brothers oxen added to mine and those from Abington.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0003-0020", "content": "Title: August 20. 1796. Saturday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Bracket and Vinton left me. We procured Captn. Baxters Oxen and William Field Junr. and went on with Eight Yoke including my red Steers, and ploughed as well as ever.\n       Paid Reed \u00a311. 2s. in full for the Weeks Work of two Men, three Yoke of Oxen and a Horse.\n       The Men I allowed 6s. a day, tho I found them, being one Shilling more than the Agreement. The Oxen I allowed 7s. 6d. a Day, as they found them, which was according to Agreement. The Horse I allowed four shillings a Day for the Days he worked, or rather danced, which were three, and I allowed them one shilling a Day for his Keeping, when he was idle. Making in the whole \u00a311 2s: od.\n       They left a miserable Dogs Ear in the Meadow unploughed, which mortifies me. In other Respects I am satisfied. I allowed them however a very extravagant sum for keeping their Cattle, and a shilling a Man a Day more than they asked for their Labour.\n       Mrs. Adams returned with Mr. and Mrs. Otis and Miss Harriot about 9 O Clock at night.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0003-0022", "content": "Title: August 22. 1796 Monday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Mr. Otis and Family went to Boston. Mr. C. Storer and Mr. Storrow breakfasted.\n       Billings and Sullivan began the Wall against the Road opposite the Corner of the Garden.\n       Very hot but the Wind springs up. Unwell.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0003-0023", "content": "Title: August 23. 1796 Tuesday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       All hands and Tirrell, upon the Wall\u2014carting Stones and Earth &c. Went down to Mr. Quincys and up to our Tenants with Mrs. Adams. Unwell. Brisler and the two black Boys picking Apples.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0003-0025", "content": "Title: August 25. 1796. Thursday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Billings, Bass and the two Lothrops all this Week upon the Wall over the Way. They make about a Rod and a half a day. Captn. Beale began Yesterday to clear his Brook. So much for the Exemplary Influence of ploughing my Meadow.\n       The Benediction of Ulysses to The Pheacians, B. 13. 1. 60. \u201cSure fix\u2019d on Virtue may your nation stand and public Evil never touch the Land\u201d comprehends the Essence and Summary of Politicks. A Nation can stand on no other Basis, and standing on this it is founded on a Rock. Standing on any other Ground it will be washed away by the Rains or blown down by the Winds.\n       This Day has been intolerably hot. But about 9 O Clock in the Evening it began to rain with Thunder and Lightening and continued to rain very steadily for an hour or two.\n       My Men complained of the heat more than at any time, they accomplished never the less about a rod and an half of the Wall.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0003-0026", "content": "Title: August 26. 1796. Fryday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Cloudy. Wind. N.E. but not rainy. The shower last night has refreshed Us. The Corn, the Gardens, the Pastures, The After feed, the Fruit trees all feel it.\n       Sullivan gone for a Load of Seaweed. The other Men upon the Wall. In digging a Trench for the Wall We find Stones enough, in Addition to the old Wall to compleat the New one. Four hands with a Yoke of Oxen have done Six Rods in four days Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.\n       Brisler went Yesterday a plovering with a Party who killed about an hundred.\n       \u201dInflexible to preserve, virtuous to pursue, and intelligent to discern the true Interests of his Country.\u201d Flattering expressions of a Toast, the more remarkable as they originated in N. York.\u2014God grant they may never be belied, never disproved.\n       Mr. Sedgwick and Mr. Barrell came up to see me, and gives a sanguine Account of the future Elections of Senators and Representatives.\n       Sullivan brought up a Load of Seaweed for the Swine. Trask at Work the 3d day mowing Bushes in the old Plain.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0003-0027", "content": "Title: August 27. 1796. Saturday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Sullivan carting Seaweed, spread one Load among the red Loam in the Cavity in the Yard. Trask mowing Bushes in the meadow below the Garden. James cutting the Trees. Billings, Bass and Thomas, about the Wall. Brisler absent on Account of his sick Child.\n       The Wall, the Alterations of the Road, and the Carting of the Earth, Soil, Loam, Gravel and Stones, out of the Way, whether We spread them on the Meadow, lay them in heaps for Compost in the Yard, or deposit them in Parts of the Road where they may be wanted, will in the most frugal Course We can take consume much labour at a great Expence.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0004-0001", "content": "Title: September 1. 1796. Thursday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       The Summer is ended and the first day of Autumn commenced. The Morning is cold tho the Wind is West. To Work again on the high Ways. Billings out upon his Wall a little after Sunrise. Captn. Hall Surveyor of High Ways finished the Road between my Garden and new Wall.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0004-0002", "content": "Title: September 2. 1796. Fryday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       To work again on the high Ways. They have taxed me this Year between forty nine and fifty days Works on the Roads besides the other Farm in Quincy and the farm in Braintree. This is unjust, more than my Proportion, more than Mr. Black or Mr. Beale.\n       Stumbled over a Wheelbarrow in the dark and hurt my Shin.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0004-0003", "content": "Title: September 3. 1796. Saturday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Pursuing the Wall. Tirrell is here and We expect French with his Team. Some soft warm Showers in the night and this morning. French came not, because it rained.\n       Anniversary of Peace, which has lasted 13 Years.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0004-0005", "content": "Title: September 5. 1796. Monday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       The Anniversary of The Congress in 1774.\n       Sullivan brought a good Load of green Seaweed, with six Cattle, which We spread and limed upon the heap of Compost in the Meadow. Carted Earth from the Wall to the same heap. Tirrell here. Stetson opening the Brook three feet wider, Two feet on one Side and three feet on the other, at 9d. Pr. rod. Billings has never laid up more than a Rod and a half a day, of the Wall, till Yesterday when he thinks he laid up 28 feet.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0004-0007", "content": "Title: Sept. 7. 1796. Wednesday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Belcher, Bass and Sullivan gone to mow the Marsh and get out the Thatch at Penny ferry.\n       Billings laying Wall. Thomas, carting Earth. Stetson, widening the Brook to seven feet at 9d. Pr. Rod and a dinner. Brisler and James preparing, Yesterday and to day, the Cyder Mill, Press, and Casks.\n       Yesterday Jackson Field came to offer me Mount Arrarat at Three hundred Dollars. I could not agree. He fell to 275. I could not agree. He fell to 250 reserving the Right to work in Stone with one hand, for Life. I agreed at length to this extravagant Price and have drawn the Deed this Morning.\n       This Afternoon He came and took the Deed to execute and acknowledge.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0004-0008", "content": "Title: Septr. 8. 1796. Thursday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Sullivan gone for Seaweed. Bass and Thomas carting Manure from the Hill of Compost in the Yard. Billings and Prince laying Wall. Brisler and James picking Apples and making Cyder. Stetson widening the Brook.\n       I think to christen my Place by the Name of Peace field, in commemoration of the Peace which I assisted in making in 1783, of the thirteen Years Peace and Neutrality which I have contributed to preserve, and of the constant Peace and Tranquility which I have enjoyed in this Residence.\n       Carted 6 Loads of slimy Mud from the Brook to the heap of Compost.\n       Jackson Field brought me his Deed of Mount Arrarat executed by himself and his Wife and acknowledged before Major Miller. I received it, and gave him my Note for 250 dollars. I then gave him my Consent, without his asking it, to pasture his Cow as usual the Remainder of this Season, for which he expressed Gratitude, and en\u00adgaged to keep off Geese, Sheep, Hogs and Cattle. Received Letters from my Son at the Hague as late as 24. June.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0004-0010", "content": "Title: September 10. 1796. Saturday.\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n       Walked, with my Brother to Mount Arrarat, and find upon Inquiry that Jo. Arnold\u2019s Fence against the New Lane begins at the Road by the Nine mile Stone. My half is towards Neddy Curtis\u2019s Land lately Wm. Fields. The Western Half of the Fence against Josiah Bass, or in other Words that Part nearest to Neddy Curtis\u2019s is mine. Against Dr. Greenleaf my half is nearest to Josiah Bass\u2019s Land.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/01-03-02-0013-0004", "content": "Title: [September 1796]\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \n      September 1. 1796. Thursday.\n       The Summer is ended and the first day of Autumn commenced. The Morning is cold tho the Wind is West. To Work again on the high Ways. Billings out upon his Wall a little after Sunrise. Captn. Hall Surveyor of High Ways finished the Road between my Garden and new Wall.\n      September 2. 1796. Fryday.\n       To work again on the high Ways. They have taxed me this Year between forty nine and fifty days Works on the Roads besides the other Farm in Quincy and the farm in Braintree. This is unjust, more than my Proportion, more than Mr. Black or Mr. Beale.\n       Stumbled over a Wheelbarrow in the dark and hurt my Shin.\n   Moses Black, an Irishman who had acquired the house and farm formerly owned by Col. Edmund Quincy (the \u201cDorothy Q.\u201d house), and Squire Benjamin Beale were both at this time prominent in town affairs and among the largest property owners in Quincy. See the tax list for 1792, when Quincy was taken off from Braintree, in Pattee, Old Braintree and QuincyWilliam S. Pattee, A History of Old Braintree and Quincy, with a Sketch of Randolph and Holbrook, Quincy, 1878., p. 623 ff., and numerous references to both men in the same work.\n      September 3. 1796. Saturday.\n       Pursuing the Wall. Tirrell is here and We expect French with his Team. Some soft warm Showers in the night and this morning. French came not, because it rained.\n       Anniversary of Peace, which has lasted 13 Years.\n      September 4. 1796. Sunday.\n       Fair. No Clergyman to day.\n      September 5. 1796. Monday.\n       The Anniversary of The Congress in 1774.\n       Sullivan brought a good Load of green Seaweed, with six Cattle, which We spread and limed upon the heap of Compost in the Meadow. Carted Earth from the Wall to the same heap. Tirrell here. Stetson opening the Brook three feet wider, Two feet on one Side and three feet on the other, at 9d. Pr. rod. Billings has never laid up more than a Rod and a half a day, of the Wall, till Yesterday when he thinks he laid up 28 feet.\n       Walked up to Trask mowing Bushes.\n      Sept. 7. 1796. Wednesday.\n       Belcher, Bass and Sullivan gone to mow the Marsh and get out the Thatch at Penny ferry.\n       Billings laying Wall. Thomas, carting Earth. Stetson, widening the Brook to seven feet at 9d. Pr. Rod and a dinner. Brisler and James preparing, Yesterday and to day, the Cyder Mill, Press, and Casks.\n       Yesterday Jackson Field came to offer me Mount Arrarat at Three hundred Dollars. I could not agree. He fell to 275. I could not agree. He fell to 250 reserving the Right to work in Stone with one hand, for Life. I agreed at length to this extravagant Price and have drawn the Deed this Morning.\n       This Afternoon He came and took the Deed to execute and acknowledge.\n            \u201cIn 1823, ex-President John Adams was asked whether Judge Edmund Quincy of Braintree, went to Boston over Milton Hill? He replied, \u2019No, Judge Quincy would have thought it unsafe to venture as far inland as Milton Hill, for fear of the Indians; he was accustomed to go to Boston by the way of Penny\u2019s Ferry;\u2019\u2014a ferry so called because passengers paid a penny a piece to be rowed over the Neponset\u201d (Quincy Patriot, 25 Dec. 1875, as quoted in Pattee, Old Braintree and QuincyWilliam S. Pattee, A History of Old Braintree and Quincy, with a Sketch of Randolph and Holbrook, Quincy, 1878., p. 69, note).\n   Mount Ararat was part of the old Braintree North Commons (now in West Quincy), divided and sold as lots in 1765 under the management of a town committee of which JA was a member (Braintree Town RecordsSamuel A. Bates, ed., Records of the Town of Braintree, 1640 to 1793, Randolph, Mass., 1886., p.406\u2013407). On 9 June of the present year JA had acquired from Neddie Curtis 20 acres of this land, which was to prove valuable for its granite quarries, and he now acquired 20 more (information from Mr. Ezekiel S. Sargent, Quincy, Mass., in a letter to the editors from Mr. H. Hobart Holly, president of the Quincy Historical Society, 13 March 1960). In 1822 JA held still more granite-producing land in this neighborhood, and one of his gifts to the town toward building a new church and an academy comprised \u201cfifty four acres more or less, commonly known by the name of the Lane\u2019s Pasture, or the Mount Ararat Pasture, near the seat of the Hon. Thomas Greenleaf\u201d ([Quincy, Mass.,] Deeds and Other Documents ..., Cambridge, 1823, p. 3\u20135).\n      Septr. 8. 1796. Thursday.\n       Sullivan gone for Seaweed. Bass and Thomas carting Manure from the Hill of Compost in the Yard. Billings and Prince laying Wall. Brisler and James picking Apples and making Cyder. Stetson widening the Brook.\n       I think to christen my Place by the Name of Peace field, in commemoration of the Peace which I assisted in making in 1783, of the thirteen Years Peace and Neutrality which I have contributed to preserve, and of the constant Peace and Tranquility which I have enjoyed in this Residence.\n       Carted 6 Loads of slimy Mud from the Brook to the heap of Compost.\n       Jackson Field brought me his Deed of Mount Arrarat executed by himself and his Wife and acknowledged before Major Miller. I received it, and gave him my Note for 250 dollars. I then gave him my Consent, without his asking it, to pasture his Cow as usual the Remainder of this Season, for which he expressed Gratitude, and en\u00adgaged to keep off Geese, Sheep, Hogs and Cattle. Received Letters from my Son at the Hague as late as 24. June.\n   \u201cPeacefield\u201d (variously written) was the first of several names JA used for his Quincy homestead; they varied according to his mood. Following his unhappy return from Washington in March 1801, he headed his letters \u201cStony Field, Quincy,\u201d a name he drew from Stony Field Hill, the eminence that he owned and farmed across the road from his house and that later acquired the more elegant name Presidents Hill. After resuming his correspondence with Jefferson in 1812, JA whimsically adopted an Italianate name, \u201cMontezillo,\u201d which he cryptically explained to Richard Rush as follows: \u201cMr. Jefferson lives at Monticello the lofty Mountain. I live at Montezillo a little Hill\u201d (24 Nov. 1814, PHi:Gratz Coll.). This name persisted until JA\u2019s last years, though he used it irregularly, and occasionally varied it by employing the English form, \u201cLittle Hill.\u201d\n   At the end of May JQA had returned to The Hague after a stay of nearly seven months in London. He had gone there on what turned out to be a superfluous diplomatic errand, but in the course of his visit he had become engaged to Louisa Catherine Johnson; see his Diary, 11 Nov. 1795\u201331 May 1796; JQA to AA, 5 May 1796, Adams Papers; Bemis, JQASamuel Flagg Bemis, John Quincy Adams, New York, 1949\u20131956; 2 vols. [Vol. 1:] John Quincy Adams and the Foundations of American Foreign Policy; [vol. 2:] John Quincy Adams and the Union., 1:68\u201369. The letters JA mentions as receiving were doubtless those dated 6 and 24 June 1796, both in Adams Papers and both in large part printed in JQA\u2019s WritingsThe Writings of John Quincy Adams, ed. Worthington C. Ford, New York, 1913\u20131917; 7 vols., 1:490\u2013493. 497\u2013508.\n       Appearances of Rain.\n      September 10. 1796. Saturday.\n       Walked, with my Brother to Mount Arrarat, and find upon Inquiry that Jo. Arnold\u2019s Fence against the New Lane begins at the Road by the Nine mile Stone. My half is towards Neddy Curtis\u2019s Land lately Wm. Fields. The Western Half of the Fence against Josiah Bass, or in other Words that Part nearest to Neddy Curtis\u2019s is mine. Against Dr. Greenleaf my half is nearest to Josiah Bass\u2019s Land.\n   The tempo of electioneering increased rapidly after the publication of Washington\u2019s Farewell Address on 19 Sept., but JA stayed quietly on at Quincy for two months longer, pushing his program of farm improvements into severely cold weather. On 23 Nov. he left for Philadelphia, passing a day on the way with his daughter in East Chester and another with CA in New York (JA to AA, 27 Nov., 1 Dec, both in Adams Papers). He arrived in Philadelphia on 2 Dec., in ample time for the opening of the second session of the Fourth Congress three days later. The city was seething with politics on the eve of the voting by Presidential electors in the sixteen states, and so indeed was the country; but JA wrote much more calmly of the prospects of both himself and his rivals, not to mention the maneuvers of party understrappers and the libels of journalists, than AA could. \u201cI look upon the Event as the throw of a Die, a mere Chance, a miserable, meagre Tryumph to either Party,\u201d he told JQA in a letter of 5 Dec. (Adams Papers). What he meant was that, since the contest was bound to be very close, the new President, whoever he might be, would have so small a majority that he would \u201cbe very apt to stagger and stumble\u201d in discharging his duties (to AA, 7 Dec, Adams Papers). The result of the electors\u2019 balloting was not perfectly certain until late that month. By the 27th JA could write his wife: \u201c71 is the Ne plus ultra\u2014it is now certain that no Man can have more and but one so many\u201d; and though he did not yet know beyond all doubt whether Jefferson or Thomas Pinckney would be Vice-president he discussed with AA their imminent problems respecting \u201cHouse, Furniture, Equipage, Servants,\u201d and the like (Adams Papers). At length, on 8 Feb., as he was bound to do, he presided over a joint meeting of the two houses in which the votes were unsealed and counted, and announced the result as 71 votes for himself (one more than the necessary majority of 70), 68 for Jefferson, 59 for Pinckney, and the rest scattered among ten others, so that John Adams and Thomas Jefferson were elected President and Vicepresident respectively, to serve for four years beginning on 4 March 1797 (Annals of CongressThe Debates and Proceedings in the Congress of the United States [1789\u20131824], Washington, 1834\u20131856; 42 vols., 4th Cong., 2d sess., col. 2095\u20132098).\n   Four years later, on 11 Feb. 1801, Vice-president Jefferson found himself obliged to perform a similar duty and announced that Jefferson and Burr had each received 73 electoral votes, JA 65, Charles Cotesworth Pinckney 64, and John Jay 1 vote (sameThe Debates and Proceedings in the Congress of the United States [1789\u20131824], Washington, 1834\u20131856; 42 vols., 6th Cong., 2d sess., col. 743\u2013744). The tie vote for the two Democratic-Republican candidates led to complications, but JA was out of the running, and early on the day of his successor\u2019s inauguration he left the new seat of government in Washington, and public life, for good.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0055", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams Smith, 1 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Smith, Abigail Adams\n            Philadelphia, January 1, 1796.\n          I have several letters from your mother, who, I thank God, appears to be in good health.\n          Mr. Josiah Quincy is now in this town, and is bound to Savannah in Georgia; whether after the example of his father as a mere traveller to acquire information, or whether with some share of the spirit of his grandfather in pursuit of speculation, I know not. This young man is a rare instance of hereditary eloquence and ingenuity in the fourth generation. He comes into life with every advantage of family, fortune, and education, and I wish him all the success which such auguries naturally present to him in prospect. I yesterday, in the presence of half a dozen Senators, laughingly advised him to go to the President and Mrs. Washington, and ask their leave to make his addresses to Nelly Custis, or her sister, at Georgetown, in the course of his journey. The young gentleman blushed, and he may have left his heart in Boston; but I think him the first match in the United States.\n          I hope with you, that good sense will prevail over prejudice. But I despair of much tranquillity in this country, till France shall have established a good government. And although by the adoption of three branches they have made a great improvement on their former inanimate conceptions, yet they will find that their plural executive will be a fruitful source of division, faction, and civil war. In a few weeks the five directors will be divided into two parties, three against two. The three will be for decisive and vigorous measures, the two for wavering and feeble ones, under the names of moderation, republicanism, and liberty. The two will strengthen themselves\nby connections with numbers in the Council of Ancients, that of 500, and in the city, and among the people at large, till the two become more powerful than the three. The latter will be the victims. The essential emulation in the human heart will never permit the five to be long unanimous. Such is the lot of humanity.\n          Their elective judiciary, too, will be found an instrument of party, instead of a sanctuary of justice.\n          Your brother was empowered to go to England; but if not arrived by a certain day, the business was to be done by Mr. Dean. The despatches did not arrive in season, so that I suppose he will not go over.\n          I expected the pleasure of seeing Col. Smith at Christmas. My love to him, and to my grandchildren all. I am your / Affectionate father,", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0056", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 2 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia Jan. 2. 1796\n          The Weather here is as fine as it was the last Year. The Festival season of Christmas and the new Year, is enjoyed in Perfection by all, for what I know, but poor Cabot and me. He is as solitary and disconsolate as a lone Goose. He strives to keep up his Spirits and preserve his usual Gaiety but one plainly perceives it is all Exertion.\n          There are Letters to the secretary of State upon public affairs, from J. Q. A. as late as 5th. of october. I dont expect that he will go over to England at all. Upon the whole it will be as well that he should not.\n          Two Speculating Landjobbing Villains, in combination with Indian Traders at Detroit, will take up the House of Representatives half the Winter for what I know. I see no Necessity for all this Parade\u2014 They might have been sent to Prison at once for Contempt, during the session and ordered to be prosecuted by the Att. Gen.\n          our two Grandsons at New York have the Meazles and the Grandaughter is expected to have them. The season of the Year is as favourable As their age, and will be fortunate for them to have gone through this unavoidable Evil thus early in Life.\n          The H. of Reps in S.C. have behaved amiss\u2014but they did not dare to send their firebrand to the senate, and almost half their Number went out of the House.\n          The Vote is the meanest which has ever been passed. not one of the Mobs have been so sordid as to put the whole Treaty upon the single Point of Pay for the Negroes.\n          S.C. V. and Kentucky I believe will be the only States which will shew their Teeth and they can not bite.\n          Goodhue is almost discouraged or at least quite out of Patience. He says \u201cthe whole History of the Government has been one continued Labour to roll a stone up a steep hill. It is too fatiguing to be always on the Stretch\u2014and a Government that requires So much Pains to support it is not worth preserving.\u201d\n            It is indeed the Stone of Sysiphus.\n          Van berckel tells me that the new French Government is not agreeable to The Dutch\u2014 They are as yet too Jacobinical. He thinks the French Constitution will turn upon a Pivot, and come round at length to \u201cThe Defence of the C. of U.S.\u201d De L\u2019Etombe tells me that [\u201c]\u2018The Defence\u2019 has not only been laid down by Boissy D\u2019Anglass, as their future Model, but has been frequently quoted of late in the Convention by many other of the principal Members as their first Authority.\u201d\n          I wish they understood their Authority better or had more Fortitude, Consistency and Influence in adopting and establishing the genuine Principles of that Work.\n          I have often told you laughing, what may become a real Truth that \u201cI shall be the great Legislator of Nations and that Nations must learn of me or cutt one anothers throats.\u201d\n          This sounds like the Bombast of Mad Tom: Thus much is a Serious Truth that free Nations must all become followers of Zeno not of me, or wrangle & fight forever. I am but a Disciple of Zeno.\n          I dined on Thursday with Adet who called upon me for a Toast\u2014 I gave an happy Success to the new Government in France. The French Company seemed to relish it better than our Frenchified Americans\u2014\n          I am, and that is enough", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0057", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 3 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            my Dearest Friend\n          I will try to write tho it is with much difficulty I hold My pen, oweing to a very painfull Soar which gatherd at the Root of one of My nails on My Right Hand. it has been so painfull as to allarm me for several Days least it Must be opend to the Bone, and to deprive me of rest. it has begun to discharge, & tho yet painfull, is less so since. I have not been free from my old Rhuemactick complaints, tho, not confined with them to the House. We have had very moderate weather and our Farmers have improved it by getting out the mannure upon the meadow & spreading as Much as they could. they finishd this Day getting it out. we do not go on so rapidly as some, but we are very steady. I setled with Bass and paid him his 16 Dollors as was your agreement, and engaged him till the Eleventh of April for which I am to give him 22 Dollors\u2014 the Farm Boat is taken care of & the Roller the Wheels &c\n          our weatherwise Soothsayers have been as much out in their calculations as yet respecting the Severity of the Winter as the political prophesyers respecting the Stormy Sessions of congress, but I do not yet think the Scene opened I calculate however from a combination of circumstances, the Triumph of virtue and National Prosperity. I received Your Letters of the 16 17 & 21 with Randolphs poor Poor Story, three Months in Hatching, a dark Business at best.\n          the President whom Mr Randolph treats so very unhandsomely appears with more dignity for the tenderness he shews a Man Who can never be considerd in any other Light than the Fool of Party,\nthe weak unstable Politician, assumeing to himself an influence over the mind of a Man infinately his Superiour and reminding one of the frog in the Fable who tried to Swell to the size of the ox till he burst. Where there is vanity there Will be folly\u2014 Fauchet dispatches shew a pidling Genius he knew very little of the real Character of the people whom he described, and less of their politicks. no extensive views no comprehensive mind, but as the Rebublick of France can comprehend any thing and every thing, they may possibly make out a system in Fauchet Dispatch. tis beyond my comprehension many parts of it I own not withstanding Randolphs Precious confessions. I propose the old play of a Wonder, a Woman keeps a secreet should change its title, or Else let the Lords of the creation confess that Nature is equally weak in Male & Female. A Mason & a Randolph have taken of the Reproach from the Female Character. The answer of the Senate to the Presidents Speach I liked much. \u201cHe hath deserved worthyly of his Country, and hath so planted his honour in their Eyes, and his actions in their Hearts, that for their Tongues to have been silent, and not confess so much were a kind of ingratefull injury; to report otherways were a malice, that giving itself the lie would pluck reproof and rebuke from every ear that heard it\u201d Shakspear. my finger is so bundled up that my writing is rather worse than usual. you are so used to it that I suppose you can pick it out, and if you cannot, there will be no great loss. Shall I remind you of the New Year, and congratulate you that we are one Year nearer the End of our Journey? can it be a subject of congratulation, that our Years as Life declines, speed rapidly away,\n            [\u201c]And not a year, but pilfers as he goes\n            Some youthfull grace, that Age would gladly keep\n            A tooth or auburn Lock\u201d\n          But soloman tells us, that in a Multitude of years there is Wisdom, \u201cThat Life is Long, which answers Lifes great End.[\u201d] Whilst we can be serviceable to Mankind, and enjoy the blessing of Life, I believe we May rejoice that our Days are Lengthend out and unite in mutual congratulation upon revolving years.\n          I inclose a paper of Russels. Cato is as restless and as dissapointed, as factious and as turbulent in plimouth as the Cato of N york. Your Mother is as well as when you left home. she walkd here this week, and desires to be rememberd to you. I am ashamed to\nsend such a Scrawl, but I know you would be uneasy if you Did not hear once a week from / your affectionate", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0058", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 5 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia January 5. 1796\n          There is a dead calm in the political Atmosphere, which furnishes no Event worth relating. The House of Reps is wholly taken up with two worthless Agents of Corruption.\n          I have this day however heard News that is of some Importance. It must be kept a Secret wholly to yourself, One of the Ministry told me to day that the President was solemnly determined to serve no longer than the End of his present Period. He mentioned Such Circumstances of solemn Asseveration as left him no room to doubt. Mrs W. said one thing to me lately which seemed to imply as much. Others, Men of the first Weight, I find consider the Event as certain.\u2014 You know the Consequence of this, to me and to yourself. Either We must enter upon Ardours more trying than any ever yet experienced; or retire to Quincy Farmers for Life. I am at least as determined not to serve under Jefferson, as W. is not to serve at all.\nI will not be frightened out of the public service nor will I be disgraced in it.\n          You will say that he will be over persuaded\u2014 You know what Jemmy said of Elijah. \u201cHis poor soul would have no chance for salvation for he had sworn most bitterly.\u201d\n          The Weather is mild as last Winter\u2014 No snow No frost\u2014 Farmers may plough.\n          I received Yesterday your favour of the 27. Who Randolphs four mighty Men were, I know not. I am much mortified to reflect that I ever had any Opinion of that Creatures head or heart.\n          There are Letters from John as far as 5th of October in the office of state. His public Correspondence is still very punctual and quite Satisfactory.\n          Randolphs Intrigues to defeat the Treaty defeated him of the honour of going to England but I dont regret it. I am with the tenderest / Affection your", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0059", "content": "Title: Charles Adams to John Quincy Adams, 6 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, Charles\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n            My dear Brother\n            New York January 6th 1796\n          Your letter of the 15th September arrived yesterday I own I have not so much cause to complain of my brothers as they have of me. It is reported and generally beleived that our Present Chief will decline serving for another term. I have been informed from good authority that such are his intentions. It is to be hoped that he will not make the trial as I am confident The People of this Country will never accept his resignation. Should he be removed by death I am persuaded The People would fix upon the man to succeed him with much more composure than is generally imagined. It has been an idea industriously circulated that confusion and tumult will follow the decease of George Washington but I trust this government does not depend upon the life of any man. I do not agree in opinion with you that the successor of the present first magistrate will hold a situation so very uncomfortable and dangerous Americans begin to see through the schemes and machination of certain factious and turbulent men among them and to be ashamed of the influence they have had over their passions. They will therefore unite more firmly to support The Constitution and The men who administer it.\nThey feel that gross deception has been used in order to destroy their confidence in their Magistrates. The greatest enemy we have to contend with is foreign influence. You and I very well know how active it has been for a long while Yet certain facts are coming to light which open the eyes and rouse the indignation of our Countrymen The body of the People scorn to be directed by French art or British insolence May heaven preserve the honest sentiment. Nothing can exceed the abuse upon honest men and measures which has for these two years past been disgorged from our presses, but The scriblers have gone too far and their weapons are turned against themselves Hamilton has this day given the public his last number of The Defence of the treaty. It will make a valuable volume. I hope you have received the numbers I sent. You will have the rest by this oportunity and as soon as the whole is published in a volume I will transmit it to you. Randolphs Defence of his resignation may excite some curious reflections. The intercepted letter shows what we have to depend on\n          Our State Legislature commenced their session on the 4 inst and It gives me great satisfaction to find the three branches for the first time united in the support of Federal measures. I rejoice to see this State assuming her proper rank and throwing off the shackles of Clinton and his adherents This moment I have seen Mr Van Rensalaer who informs me he left you well in July He was taken and carried into Halifax where all his private letters were opened except one from Thos which he gave me Thus you see the British continue their civilities.\n          With sincere affection I am / your brother\n            Chas Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0060", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Abigail Adams, 6 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dear Mother.\n          I have the receipt of two Letters from you to acknowledge; the one bearing date September 15. and the other October 8. of the year which has just been added to the rolls of departed Time. For both these Letters please to accept my cordial thanks. As the principal subject of them relates to the Treaty, which brought me here, they are not susceptible of a lengthy answer from me.\u2014 The part which as you observe I have to act upon the occasion is indeed trivial enough, and I find myself with respect to Mr: Jay, something like the candlesnuffer to Garrick, in Peter Pindar.\n            \u201cThe Boards of Drury, you and I have trod.\u201d\n          But insignificant as my part in the business is, I have the most unequivocal symptoms, that it is gathering the rays of Envy from various quarters; they will centre upon your son with no common malignity, unless he be speedily removed to the less conspicuous station which he previously held.\u2014 It is a thing almost unaccountable to me, that sensible men, and above all that ambitious men should see with such sentiments, a situation which in my mind is at present both aukward and embarassing.\u2014 It seems to be a proverbial opinion, that to be an object of Envy, is a desirable and a pleasant thing.\u2014 But I have no such wish, and on the contrary desire to avoid it as much as possible. One of the most predominant ingredients in my composition is the love of ease, and I therefore dread the necessity of having to contend, even defensively, with ardent, eager, intriguing, or violent men. To all this however a Man must make up his mind in political existence as much as to sickness or death in natural life. It is a sort of trial, which I would fain escape or at least postpone.\n          The opinion expressed in the quotation of your letter, coming from a quarter so highly respectable, was as grateful to my feelings, as you could have expected; but let me once more repeat, my dear mother, that the energy, and warmth of approbation, which has been so liberally bestowed in all my late family letters from America, really alarm me. My father especially sometimes hardly remembers what a corrupter praise is. I expect indeed to have the other side of the question in the newspapers before long; but if my sins are there visited only upon myself, I shall be better proof against that.\n          I have now been here almost two months; in a character so differing from the common diplomatic course as to have produced various circumstances more or less ridiculous.\u2014 I believe that some of the good souls in administration here, have been led to think me a good sort of man; and as Sir Toby Belch says \u201cone that adores them.\u2014\u201d They have therefore, especially on my first arrival been liberal of their polite condescension, a species of treatment, which I have endeavoured to convince them that I did not deserve, and would not receive. That they have had the gift of pleasing me, is more than I will vouch for, and if they meant to shew me that I had possessed that of pleasing them, they have been very clumsy in the art of complimenting.\n          I wish I could find it in my heart to think better of them; because when a man means to shew civility, I do not love to meet it with contempt, or to suspect its motives. That I had a certain merit in their estimation, for political opinions which they attributed to me, I have every reason to believe. But I believe also that they imagined I should set an higher value upon their estimation, than I do: they supposed that I should be flattered by their notice, and in an enthusiasm of gratitude should perhaps be very compliant.\n          I hope to have no further occasion to discover either my compliance or my obstinacy to them. But they are not men with whom it is likely that I can ever readily agree. They are not more likely to agree with me, and I have abundance of reasons to suppose that I could do very little good here by negotiation. I am convinced that Mr: Jay did every thing, that was to be done; that he did so much, affords me a proof of the wisdom with which he conducted the business, that grows stronger the more I see.\u2014 But circumstances will do a great deal more than any negotiator. The pride of Britain itself must bend to the course of Events. The rigour of her system already begins to relax, and one year more of War to her, and of Peace to us, will be more favourable to our interest, and to the final establishment of our principles, than could possibly be, twenty years of negotiation or of War.\n          Since I sat down to this Letter, Scott has arrived, but I have yet received no Letters. Perhaps my friends chuse to wait untill they can write more pleasing intelligence. I am obliged to put up with here a scrap and there a scrap of information that I pick up from persons arriving from America, and it is not always such as may be depended on.\n          You may suppose that with the business I have on hand, the\nletters I am obliged to write and copy, without any assistance, and the usual portion of time that must be dedicated to forms and to civility, my leisure moments are not very numerous.\u2014 About once a week I frequent one of the Theatres, but find in general that representations of mere parade and shew, are so much preferr\u2019d to those of Sentiment, Passions, or Manners that I do not always meet with the entertainment which might be the most pleasing to myself.\u2014 The taste for painting continues to be as prevalent here as it has ever been. The splendid editions of Shakespear, and of Hume\u2019s History, now publishing, you have often heard of. The original paintings from which the plates destined to adorn these works are to be taken, are exhibited to the public in Galleries, called the Shakespear, and the Historic Gallery. I have seen them both, and was very highly gratified particularly with the first: The Collection is much more numerous, and in my opinion much superior in point of Execution, to the other. The introduction of elegant plates, seems to be more proper for compositions of imagination and fiction, than for the sober dignity of the Historian. Many of the Historic Pieces are by Opie, the friend and proteg\u00e9 of Peter Pindar; they have repeated to me the lesson of placing small dependence upon the applause of friendship however eminent.\u2014 Mr: Opie\u2019s performances are upon the whole below mediocrity.\n          The most indifferent things of the Shakespear Gallery, are those in which the Painters have endeavoured to follow the Poet into the worlds of his own creation. So long as they only copy, the imitation is beautiful; but when they attempt to manage such machines, as his Fairies, his Spirits and his Witches, they sink in helpless weakness under their weight. A Scene in the Midsummers Nights Dream, by one of the most eminent artists, instead of the fine frenzy of the Poet has given only the nauseous incoherencies of a sick man\u2019s dream; and the witches of Macbeth, by Reynolds himself are not entirely clear from the same observation.\u2014 But there is a Death of Cardinal Beaufort, by Reynolds, an Ophelia by West, a Richard and Mortimer and a Hubert and Arthur by Northcote, a Ghost of Hamlet by Fuseli, a Cassandra by Romney, and indeed many others the merit of which must be acknowledged and felt by every beholder whether ignorant or connoisseur; I have no pretensions to the latter character, but by judging merely from effect, I believe the simple taste of nature is not more easily pleased than the more accurate perception of science.\n          These are the only curiosities that I have visited in my present\nresidence here: excepting the Panorama; a species of exhibition remarkable only from its first impression, and the novelty of a singular optical illusion produced merely by a particular arrangement of admission and exclusion to light. The thing has been shewn in America by Mr: Savage, and its nature is probably well known to you.\n          My paper as usual brings me to a close, leaving me only room to request my remembrance, to all my good friends and relations at Quincy and Weymouth, and to assure you that I remain with customary duty and affection, your Son", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0061", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 7 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia Jany. 7. 1796\n          Inclosed is another Production of Porcupine, whose quils will Stick.\n            \u201cAnd Midas now neglected Stands\n            With Asses ears and dirty hands.[\u201d]\n          The President appears great in Randolphs Vindication throughout excepting that he wavered about Signing the Treaty which he ought not to have done one moment. Happy is the Country to be rid of Randolph: but where shall be found good Men and true to fill the offices of Government. There seems to be a Necessity of distributing the offices about the States in Some Proportion to their Numbers: but in the Southern Part of the Union false Politicks have Struck their roots so deep that it is very difficult to find Gentlemen who are willing to accept of public Trusts and at the same time capable of discharging them. The President offered the office of State to Seven Gentlemen who declined: to Mr Patterson, Mr King, Mr Henry of Virginia, Mr Charles Cotesworth Pinckney of S. C. and three others whose names I dont recollect. He has not been able to find any one to accept the War Office. The Expences of living at the Seat of Government are so exorbitant, so far beyond all Proportion to the salaries and the Sure Reward of Integrity in the discharge of public functions is such obloquy Contempt and Insult, that no Man of any feeling is willing to renounce his home, forsake his Property & Profession for the sake of removing to Philadelphia where he is almost sure of disgrace & Ruin. Where these Things will end I know not. In perfect Secrecy between you & me, I must tell you that I now believe the P. will retire. The Consequence to me is very Serious and I am not able as yet to see what my Duty will demand of me. I Shall take my Resolutions with cool deliberation, I shall watch the Course of Events with more critical Attention than I have done for sometime, and what Providence shall point out to be my Duty I shall pursue with Patience, and Decision. It is no light thing to resolve upon Retirement. My Country has claims\u2014my Children have claims and my own Character have claims upon me. But all These Claims forbid me to serve the Public in disgrace. Whatever any one may think I love my Country too well to shrink from Danger in her service provided I have a reasonable prospect of being\nable to serve her to her honour and Advantage. But if I have Reason to think that I have either a Want of Abilities or of public Confidence to such a degree as to be unable to support the Government in a higher Station, I ought to decline it\u2014 But in that Case, I ought not to serve in my present Place under another especially if that other should entertain sentiments so opposite to mine as to endanger the Peace of the Nation. It will be a dangerous Crisis in public affairs if the President and Vice President should be in opposite Boxes.\n          These Lumbrations must be confined to your own Bosom\u2014 But I think upon the whole the Probability is strong that I shall make a voluntary Retreat & spend the rest of my days in a very humble Style with you. of one Thing I am very sure\u2014 It would be to me the happiest Portion of my whole Life.\n          I am with unabatable Affection / Yours", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0062", "content": "Title: Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody to Abigail Adams, 9 January 1796\nFrom: Peabody, Elizabeth Smith Shaw\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dear Sister\u2014\n          It is indeed several weeks since I have written to you\u2014an eventful term to me\u2014multiplied with cares, which have prevented me from\npresenting my most cordial Thanks to my dear Sisters, for their kindness, & the maternal affection they have shewn my Daughter\u2014 I think I Justly estimated her genius & temper\u2014& my expectations were raised, that, when under your fostering hand she would greatly improve; & I am happy to find that she does honour to herself, & I hope no dishonour to you\u2014\n          You ask, why my marriage was not announced in the Paper? were this question asked of any one else but myself, I could say many things in the figurative way, but now shall only tell you, that my little Bark though built by a skillful hand, yet in its constituent parts, was very unfit for the rough billows upon which it was to be tossed in the voyage of Life, & had been so enfeebled, & battered by unforeseen, & sudden Storms as to be of too little consequence to be noticed by the world; which perhaps knew, that I had long ago, for many reasons, adopted the language of Mr Pope; & with much more sincerity (I believe) wished that I could \u201clive, & die unseen, unknown, steal from the world, & not a stone tell where I lie\u2014\u201d\n          It is a month my Sister since I quitted one State, I hope for a far better\u2014 Agreeable as Haverhill had been to me, yet as I had no part, nor inheritance there, I tarried till I really longed to be gone, that I might be at rest, & freed from a multiplicity of vexatious, unprofitable Cares\u2014 The events, & occurences which impeded my course, interupted that sweet serenity which I wished to maintain upon this solemn occasion, are too many for me to particularize Suffice it therefore to say, that everything took a contrary turn, all my plans were deranged\u2014& that had I lived in ancient days, I should have stood agast, & believed that all the Gods & Goddess had conspired against me, & had engaged the elements upon their side\u2014raging with more violence than that which dispersed the Grecian Fleet\u2014 What, or whether old Juno had any thing against me, I could not say\u2014 Whether she thought I had not asserted my rights in former times, or feared I should be now, more condescending than the dignity of her Sex, would admit, is hard for me to determine\u2014\n          I believe I told you, poor Cousin Betsy had been languishing for several weeks with a distressing pain in her side, & stomach, which the medicine could not reach, & was increasing upon her every day\u2014 The evening before our appointed marriage she was taken with fainting fits, & I really feared she would die before morning\u2014 She rested some, was not faint, but appeared with all the symptoms of a fever, unable to set up but a little while at a time\u2014 my Neighbour\u2019s Children sick with the Canker all round me, some really dead,\nothers dying\u2014 you know what a tender part a feeling heart takes upon such occasions\u2014 & my Abby I feared every day would share the fate of others\u2014 Mr Peabody had agreed to arange his affairs so as to come to Haverhill upon Tuesday\u2014desired a Team to be ready at the house wednesday for the Furniture, & Thursday a number of respectable Gentlemen were to wait upon us to Atkinson whose wives had beged the favour of Mr Peabody to roast a few Turkeys at his house, for our comfortable reception\u2014 so nothing could be done, but proceed\u2014\n          Perhaps you may remember the eighth of December was a dreadful stormy day\u2014 It was one of those Eras, which I hope I shall not wish to be blotted from my remembrance\u2014 The Storm increased with so much voilence that, circumstanced as I was, I really hoped Mr Peabody would be too superstitious to come, & be married in a Storm\u2014 It was late in the afternoon before he came\u2014 I told him I had been approbating his conduct, & supposed he had been too wise, or too whimsical to think of being married in a storm\u2014 I confess it was rather too cavalier treatment, cold, & wet as he was, but he looked up with so much good-humour & said \u201cIs it posible you can be in earnest, what if it does storm, is it not often a prelude to a calm sunshine?\u2014[\u201d] I was silent though at that moment, I thought I would have given the world not to have been the cheif actor, in this gloomy solemn scene\u2014 Betsy sick\u2014house wet\u2014neighbours disappointed, every thing wrong, & wearing a sad aspect\u2014 add to all this, just as we were standing up, a fire was cried, which proved to be our chimney\u2014 Good Lord (thought I,) what next?\u2014 this was not a vain ejaculation, I assure you\u2014but as some minds always rise in proportion to their exegencies, I thought it best, to call up all the magnanimity of which I was capable, & attend with proper composure to the duties, & solemn Obligations in which I was engaging\u2014 I cannot say, what passes in the mind of Others, but few have a more quick succession of Ideas than I had, or a greater weight (I hope) upon their minds.\n          My own affairs as administratrix unsettled, notwithstanding my repeated solicitations to the Parish for the purpose, conduced not a little to depress my spirits; & the accumalating expences occasioned by the necessity of my families being devided & leaving my dear sick Neice, rendered me almost one of the most pitiable Objects in nature, & very unfit for the duties before me.\u2014 How I bid farewell to my worthy Friends\u2014& to a place where I had very strong local attachments\u2014to a house endeared to me by the birth of my\nChildren\u2014& with what grace I received my new Parishoners, I must leave for others to say\u2014 But this I must acknowledge, that if I had not had one of the kindest of Friends, to have supported, & encouraged me, I must have sunk\u2014 And in Justice to his daughter, I must tell you, that she met me at the door with so much sweetness benevolence, & affectionate respect, as has left an indeliable impression upon my heart, that has bound me to her forever\u2014\n          When I left cousin Betsy I feared she would never be able to reach Atkinson, her symtoms were so consumtive, but the Dr said not fixed, that was some encouragment to me that she might recover, if she would but take proper care\u2014 I left Lydia, & Nancy Harrod with her, Mr Tucker lodged in the house, & Betsy Quincy, & myself took turns to stay with her till she got well enough for Mr Tucker to bring her here, which he did in a fortnight after I first came\u2014 She is far from being well now\u2014but here we all are, & my Friend looks supremely blest, in the power of making others happy\u2014\n          I thank you my dear Sister, for your kind, invitation to my Children to spend some time with you\u2014 I believe William will accept it, & go to Boston, before the vacation is out, if you can get him from your house to Cambridge\u2014 I know not where they can be better instructed than by your example, & your Library\u2014 Sometimes I think I will send Betsy to you, till the spring, & then I wish to have her go into this accademy\u2014 I think it will be for her advantage\u2014\n          I rejoice to hear that Mrs Tufts is on the recovery, I was destressed for her\u2014 I am sorry my Sister Cranchs family has been so sick, I would write if I had time\u2014moving &cc, has been fatiguing\u2014 you will be kind enough to let her see this Letter, she will want to hear from Me, & be assured my dear Sisters, that no place, time, or change will ever obliterate from my heart, the Love & Gratitude I feel for you, which glows in the breast of your affectionate Sister\n            Elizabeth Peabo[dy]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0063", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 10 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            my Dearest Friend\n          I received by the last post Your Letters of the following Dates 21 inclosing the post Note, 24 28 & 30th for all of which accept my\nthanks; we have been so unfortunate I presume as to lose Letters by a Melancholy ship wreck the last week. a vessel belonging to mr Lamb on Board of which was a Brother of Mr Lambs by whom I wrote to our sons, in comeing in last week, was in one of our winter gales & snow-storms cast away near salem. the captain Macky a Dutch Gentleman & 2 others were drown\u2019d. mr Lamb & one or two others were wash\u2019d on shore a live, but vessel cargo intirely lost. our Neighbours are in great anxiety for their Eldest son Benjamin whom they heard had saild ten week ago from Hamburgh, bound to N York. a vessel which saild with him, has been in more than a Month.\n          You observe in one of Your Letters that You wish to hear my observations upon Randolphs pamphlet. there does not appear to me any thing clear about it, or in it, but the Mans Duplicity weakness, Gullability and vanity. he represents the President as in leading strings, and between ourselves, I cannot but think, that he had gaind too great an assendency over the mind of the President, considering how very weak a Man he appears. You know my judgment of him in the very first Letter he wrote to Hammond after he was Secretary of State. You know my sintiments of his Predecessor and my Friendship for him, how loth I have been to see him a partizen of politicks I could not but abhor. Yet I think him incapable of betraying the honour interest and Dignity of the Government as this misirable Man has done. the President has been unfortunate in his States Men\u2014 I hope the office is more confidentially fill\u2019d now with respect to mr R\u2014\u2014s private Life I know nothing, but one general rule will hold good with respect to appointments to office, that a Man destitute of private virtue must want Principle, and the Man who wants principle cannot be actuated by pure Motives, nor can he possess so exalted an affection as a Rational and Disinterested Love of his Country. this has been so recently exemplified in the late Chief Justice, that no other instance need be quoted. the publick papers have mentiond almost every circumstance You related, and his insanity will sheild the Senate from, even Jacobinical censure. for his Friends I am sorry. it is a pitty that he was made so conspicuous in his Fall. As to the Virginians, they appear to be most of them Randolphs, and by their Numbers have too great a weight in the publick scale. I hope all culprits will be brought to punishment, and that our countrymen will know how to value and Appreciate the sterling coin, which has been Seven times tried, from the base Dross which only glitters without, but has no intrinsick value. Randell &\nWheaton will be throughly sifted I presume. I wish Genett Fauchet & his successors were equally ameniable to the same tribunal.\n          The complexion of the Senate is highly favourable. the House\u2014will have time to shew themselves\n          The constitution in France appears to be organizing. Seyes wisely declind belonging to the executive why it should be a subject of speculation to the Parissians, must be oweing to their want of penetration. the Executive will soon be crumbld into insignificance. Seyes had rather be one than five\u2014\n          I hope they will keep together untill a general Peace takes place, but I am sure they cannot be held by a Rope of sand.\n          I thank Mrs Washington for her kind invitation as well as for her frequent remembrance of me the high esteem and regard which I entertain for her would render such a visit peculiarly agreable to me, were all other circumstances favourable to it, but I never expect to go further than to Visit my Children;\n          I shall go to no expence that I can avoid. I Daily know that expences, I cannot say increase, but the value of Money diminishes\u2014 I was presented last week with a Tax Bill of a hundred & 87 Dollors 50 cents for the Small Town of Quincy. I shall however take the Liberty to pay my doctors Bill, and other necessary expences before I attend to what my Neighbours do not discharge in a Year after us. last week our people compleated Carting Manure upon Quincys medow 60 Loads that is cart bodys full. the Ground was so soft it would not admit of loading deeper & it is all spread copland says as well as if you had been here. he wants half a dozen more load to cover the whole which he hopes to get by & by\u2014\n          Mrs Brisler and Family were well yesterday She danced as nimbly as the youngest of them, the night before new year\n          Yours as ever\n            P S I believe you have become a favorite at court\u2014you dine so often.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0064", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 15 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n              my Dearest Friend\n            Thursday post did not bring me one Single Letter from you; tis true I had no reason to complain on the Score of inattention, as the week before I had four Letters but I suppose that I had Letters, and that the blundering Blockhead of a post, either left them in Town, or has carried them to Barnestable as he Did once before; We have got a new Post, one of your under bidders, who can not read the direction upon his papers: Such kind of people as want the Reigns of government. I had a Letter last week from Mrs smith informing me that her Children were sick with the Measels I hope to hear soon from her again. tis a very bad disorder\u2014\n            so poor Tom Paine is gone to See Whether there is any state besides the present. Heaven be praisd that he is gone there, instead of comeing to America.\n              \u201cIf plagues and Earthquakes break not heavens design\n              Why then a Paine or Jacobine?\u201d\n            he was an instrument of much Mischief. the Virginians are a very mad people. they will neither believe in the experience of those States which have been obliged to Change from a single Assembly, to a Balanced goverment, nor in the Host of departed Spirits who cry alloud to them from the Golgotha of their Allies. in every state they will find some as discontented and as Mischievous as themselves. I was told last week, that the reputed Cato of plimouth openly declares his dislike to the constitution, and Wants to have a Single assembly. when such Men as he, Men of experience, Men Who have borne a part in one revolution and Who call themselves Lovers of Liberty, profess pure and disinterested Principles, come forward & hold Such Sentiments what are we to think? can we suppose that they were ever Sincere? or shall we say with the Tenth Muse Guillotina\n              \u201cThese are the Men who fiercely burn\n              Your constitution to overturn\n              To blast the Sages of Your Choice\n              They weild the pen, and Ply the voice\u201d\n            The lines which describe the Plimouth Boys will never be forgiven. if their Malice was not impotent, they would raise a Rebellion. I feel both pity and contempt for them. as to Jonathan Pindars Dada Vice, I had a hearty laugh at it. The poor wretch, was at a misirable Shift, when he could find nothing to Ridicule but a poor cast Wig, which was a singularity in no other place than the Contracted Span of a few states whose climate is too Hot for the Heads of its inhabitants. I pray you would give Judge Cushing a Hint, for in the Minds of some of the Southern Gentry, his Wig will be a greater objection to his perferment, than all the Madness & folly, to say no worse, of a Rutledge\n            we have had an other ship Wreck, in the last week. Captain Barns in the ship Industery from London was cast away upon cape Ann & every soul on Board perish\u2019d. the captain chest & the Log Book was Wash\u2019d on shore by which the loss was discoverd. the Gale of wind blew only a few hours. we have not had one severe Snow Storm, yet more losses upon our coast than usual. I believe Captains grow more ventersome & dairing. if there were any Letters from our Sons they are all gone. I know not where to write to them. I long to hear of & from them.\n            Is the Treaty arrived as report says?\n            our Govenour makes his speach on twesday next so that I cannot send by this post. I have not got any Letters from you this week. I do not Doubt you have written, but the post office, or post has not Done its Duty. I write once a week, but have so little to entertain you with, that I feel sick of my Letter when I have written it. your Mother was here yesterday and is well for her. she sends her Love to you My Health has been better than the last winter. I Saw Mrs Brisler yesterday She went to Boston. she and Family were well. poor Arnold has been sick of a Plurisy fever & his Life despaired of for near a week. Polly watchd with him last night. he is rather better. We have not had any meeting for two sabbeths. Baxter Who is one of the Comittee says we have no occasion for preaching in the Winter. I hope he Does not imbibe the sentiment from his Minister. Remember to all inquiring Friends your affectionate", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0066", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 20 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n          This is one of my red Letter Days. It is the Anniversary of the Signature of the Declaration of an Armistice between The U.S. and G. Britain, in 1783.\u2014 There are Several of these Days in my Calandar, which I recollect as they pass in review, but which nobody else remembers. And indeed it is no otherwise worth my while to remember them than to render an Ejaculation of Gratitude to Providence for the Blessing.\n          We are wasting our Time in the most insipid manner waiting for the Treaty. Nothing of any Consequence will be done, till that arrives and is mauled and abused and then acquiessed in. For the Antis must be more numerous than I believe them and made of Sterner Stuff than I conceive, if they dare hazard the Surrender of the Posts and the Payment for Spoliations, by any Resolution of the House that shall render precarious the Execution of the Treaty on our Part.\n          I am as you Say quite a favourite\u2014 I am to dine to day again.\u2014 I am Heir Apparent you know and a Succession is soon to take Place. But whatever may be the Wish or the Judgment of the present Occupant, the French and the Demagagues intend I presume to set aside the succession Descent. all these hints must be Secrets\u2014it is not a subject of Conversation as yet\u2014 I have a pious and a philosophical Resignation to the Voice of the People in this Case which is the Voice of God. I have no very ardent desire to be the Butt of Party Malevolence. Having tasted of that Cup I found it bitter nauseous and unwholesome.\n          I hope Copland will find his Six Loads to compleat the Meadow\u2014 and take the first opportunity to cart or sled the Manure from the Yard at home up to the Top of stony field Hill. The first season that\nhappens fit for ploughing should be employed in cross ploughing the Ground at home over the Way.\n          The News of my Mothers Arm growing better, has given me great Pleasure\u2014 of the four Barrells of flour I have shipped to you, present one of them to my Mother from me with my Duty and Affection.\n          Tell my Brother I hope he has seen his Error and become a better friend of Peace and good Government, than he has been somewhat inclined to be since the Promulgation of the Treaty.\n          I am with Affections as ever / your\n            though I have alluded to your Letter of Jan. 10 I have not before expressly acknowledged the Rect of it.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0067", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 21 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            my Dearest Friend\n          a Memorable Day in the Annals of France; God forgive them, I would say. yet upon recuring to My Heart, I had a Doubt whether the petition was sincere the Scripture tells us that we must pray for our Enemies, but it does not say that we must pray, that they may not be punished according to their Deserts.\n          The post of this Day brought Me the Letters of two posts viz Yours of Jan\u2019ry 2d 5th 7th 8th & 12th The transcript from our Sons Letter, as well as his Letter gave me Sincere pleasure I hope you communicated it to the President. if he needed any further proof to convince him of the corrupt System, & of the agents employd to abuse and calumniate him, this Letter is a key to him. every thing there predicted has taken place exactly as foretold.\n          Some communications in your Letters are a source of much anxiety to me. My Ambition leads me not to be first in Rome, and the Event You request me to contemplate is of so serious a Nature that it requires much reflection & deliberation to determine upon it. there is not a beam of Light, nor a shadow of comfort or pleasure in the contemplation of the object. if personal considerations alone were to weigh, I should immediatly say retire with the Principle. I can only say that circumstances must Govern You. in a matter of such Momentous concern, I dare not influence You. I must Pray\nthat you may have Superiour Direction. as to holding the office of V P, there I will give my opinion. Resign retire. I would be Second under no Man but Washington.\n          At Length you have the speach of a poor weak old Man, Superanuated indeed and fearing a shadow. the Virgina resolutions had been sent him, and it seems he was in favour of them as far as he dared to avow them, and declares in his speach, [\u201c]that the Treaty is pregnant with evil that it controuls some of the powers specially vested in congress for the Security of the people, and he fears that it may restore to great Britain such an influence over the Government and people of this Country, as may not be consistant with the general Welfare.\u201d\n          How came the President of the united states and the 20 Senators not to make this discovery? Surely they would no more have ratified such a Treaty, than mr Jay have made it, if they had viewd it in this light.\n          I think he had better have left it, unnoticed than have come out in this manner, but it shews fully that the powers of his mind are unequal to enlarged views, and that he is under the influence of the Clubs\u2014 the Senate would not commit the Virginia Resolutions, and in the House 56 to 24 were against commiting them. I am told the house will be F\u0153derel.\n          I hope you will write to our sons by every opportunity, and send them all the intelligence You can\n          we have had a fine fall of snow which will enable our people to compleat getting home wood if it last. I have not read peter yet, because I sit down to write you immediatly. My finger is recovering, and My Health as usual. I hope we shall Soon get more Letters from abroad. I have my Eye upon Sieyes. I believe I construed his refusal to be one of the five, right. when we See the intrigues the Ambition the Envy the Malice and ingratitude of the World, who would not rather, retire and live unnoticed in a country Village, than stand the Broad Mark for all those arrows to be shot at placed upon a pinicle\n          but I have Done. upon My pillow I shall reflect fear and tremble, and pray that the President of the united states may long long continue to hold the Reigns of Government, and that his Valuable Life may be prolongd for that purpose. I am most affectionatly / Your", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0069", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Quincy Adams, 23 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          I came to Town yesterday, and find a vessel going to sail for England tomorrow, and I would not let the opportunity pass without writing You a few Lines. I have not received a line from You since the 31 of July. Your Father sent me by the last post from Philadelphia Your Letter no 12 dated the 30 of August which he received two Days before. that Letter further unfolds the Secreet Machinations of a party, who have been endeavouring to accomplish all that you have predicted. Randolphs detection has however baffeld their schemes, and laid open to the people the intrigues of a party, Which had gained too much influence even over Men of good minds and Hearts. it was not untill I read Randolphs Vindication, or as My Friend Mrs Powel of Philadelphia calls it, crimination; that I could give up the Man. I always supposed him weak & wavering, but I did not think him Treacherous. I send you his Book of which he has obtained a coppy Right. You will judge for yourself I send you Camillus as far as it is Printed in a pamphlet. if I was at home I could get the Newspapers containing the Numbers to 39 I think which I have not Sent you. by Scot you had to 24. Your Father, knowing how anxious I was to hear from you, made an extract from the last Dispatch of yours No 55 to the Secretary of State, Dated at the Hague october 15, in which you mention that it is Your intention to go to England between the 20 & 25th. I presume You are there at present, and if you are You will be happy in meeting Several of your old American Friend\u2019s You will learn from some of them the state of Politicks here. the Heat & Warmth which had been excited against the Treaty, made every one suppose that Congress would come together in no very plesent humour. the speach of the President, which as usual, was an excellent one was answerd by the senate, with affection & confidence the House was pretty federel. as yet no great warmth has taken place in either House. Your Father writes me that the Senate are as firm as a Rock, and the new Member Mr Walton from Gorgia is an accession to their Strength. the Virtuous Ten as they are Dub\u2019d hang together and you will see their Names in every antifederel motion. thus they were for erasing from the senate answer to the President Speach, that part, which expresst their undiminished confidence in him.\n          The state of New hampshire Pensilvana & Maryland by their Legislatures have exprest their approbation of the Treaty, and their unshaken confidence in the President. This state is now in session and poor old Samuell has made a decripid Speach, quite antifederel. tis said that it will be his political Death for the senate & House are very Federel as you will see by their answers, and by their rejecting the Mad Virginna Resolutions for altering the constitution\n          Fauchett intercepted Letter has been the Means of great good, and the Country is now more united and Federel than at any period for the last three years.\n          our Friends here in Town all desire to be rememberd to you. We had to Day at mr smiths one of the old Family meetings, of mr storers & Dr Welchs Family. You I dare say can picture to yourself the happy circle and sigh for the enjoyment. your Frind now Dr Clark was here. I heard to day from Washington that mr Cranch has a son. I had Letters to day from your sister her Family have been sick with the Measles, but are all recovering. our Friends at Quincy are well. your Grand Mother desires me never to forget her Love and her blessing to you.\n          Captain Barnard who goes a passenger in this Vessel will deliver this to you, with some newspapers he used to Do me kind offices in this way when I was in England. you will notice him if you see him\n          I have been careless in omitting to Number my Letters, but I have written you many times since I received a Line from you\n          The Miniatures are my delight. no present could have been so acceptable to me, and they are pronounced good likenesses by every one who sees them. I will write to my Dear Son Thomas if the Vessel should be delayd. if I cannot, Do you convey my blessing to him. Charles was well and very happy when I heard from him. his buisness increasing. I hope he will Do well. I think sometimes whilst I have Bread enough, I fear my children may want. Famine is a scourge with which Americans have never been afflicted. God Grant they never may\n          Present me kindly to mr & mrs Copley, and be assured of the tenderest affection of / Your Mother\n            Abigail Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0071", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 25 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, Thomas Boylston\n            My Dear Brother.\n          I believe there have been two or three opportunities of writing to the Hague since I received your favour of the 23d: ulto: which have escaped me. This circumstance is not to be attributed entirely to indolence or inattention on my part: in fact I have been very unwell, and for the last three weeks have scarcely taken a pen in hand. My previous correspondence from hence I think will bear no marks of laziness, Its quantity being equal to that of the busiest times when I had the benefit of your assistance.\n          My former letters will inform you that the articles in the\nnewspapers giving me a Commission to this Court were false. All the powers by virtue of which I acted here, are superseded by the return of Mr: Pinckney: but I have still to wait for a letter from America, which is hourly to be expected, and I hope to see you in a fortnight or three weeks from this time at furthest.\n          In the mean time the affairs mentioned in your letters may remain in statu quo.\u2014 The protracted impediments to the payment of the bill on Dallarde and Swan, are very unpleasant, and strike me as a little singular; but they certainly did not arise from any fault of ours.\n          I have procured the articles mentioned in your list, and will send them by the first convenient opportunity that shall offer, or bring them myself.\n          You have some newspapers herewith conformably to your request. The present is a time of stagnation in political concerns. The armistice on the Rhine has revived the hopes of Peace, which are rather fostered and encouraged by the ministerial partizans.\n          Our Accounts from America to the 20th: of December, promise rather fairer from the Session of Congress than has been expected by many. God in Heaven grant, that they may finally harmonize in the support of our National honour and Justice, from which our National Peace and Prosperity are inseparable.\n          Remember me to all our friends and particularly to M. Bielfeld.\n          Your affectionate brother", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0072", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 26 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            Philadelphia January 26. 1796\n          Yesterday I came to Senate as usual on a monday morning pleasing my Imagination and my heart with the hope and Expectation of a Letter from\u2014my dearest Friend. No Letter for The Vice President Says Mathers!\n          All Day in bad humour\u2014dirty Weather\u2014wet walking\u2014nothing good\u2014nothing right.\n          The poor Post Offices did not escape\u2014it was some blunder\u2014some carlessness of theirs\u2014in Philadelphia\u2014New York or Boston\n          Or Perhaps Mam is Sick\u2014Oh dear! Rhumatisms\u2014Oh dear! Fever & Ague! Thus peevishly fretfully and unphilosophically was Yesterday passed. Yet to devert it I read a Number of Books in Cowpers Homer and Smoaked I know not how many Segars.\n          I have had the Agreable Society of Josiah Quincy & Martin Lincoln, to assist in consoling me a little of late.\n          There is absolutely nothing to write public nor private but such as the above\u2014 Adieu", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0074", "content": "Title: Charles Adams to Abigail Adams, 31 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, Charles\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dear Mother\n          My Sister informs me that you have not lately heard from your sons in Holland and that you were anxious respecting them. I am happy to have it in my power to relieve your mind and to relate the cause of your not receiving intelligence from them. I have within these six weeks received a half a dozen letters from them some of a date as late as the 7th of October They are in good health and spirits. Some of my letters have come to hand eight months after date opened and with the Gentlemanly endorsment: \u201cOf No importance.\u201d Mr Rensalaer to whom I gave letters to my Brothers on his return from Holland was taken by The British and carried into Halifax he has explained to me the cause of my letters being opened. He brought with him many from my brothers they were all opened and kept except two one to Mrs Smith and one to me which by good fortune he had in his pocket book. He says The English let nothing pass that suits their convenience We have the happiness to see the spirit of good government once more prevail in our Legislature and that Hydra Democracy has received its last blow. Our State politics have changed with our Governor and we have a well grounded hope that they will remain permanent as by a late census the new Counties who are most Federal will be more equitably represented. Your kind present arrived after a long passage in good order You daughter joins with me in acknowledgments of your goodness. She intends writing soon I can say with truth that I have never repented of my choice and that my happiness with her equals all my expectations. I believe there are few people who after five month marriage can say as much.\u2014\n          Your affectionate son\n            Charles Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0075", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 31 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia January 31. & last 1796\n          I have a secret to Communicate to Your Prudence. The Defence by Camillus was written in Concert between Hamilton King and Jay. The Writings on the first ten Articles of the Treaty were written by Hamilton The rest by King, till they came to the question of the Constitutionality of the Treaty, which was discussed by Hamilton\u2014 Jay was to have written a concluding Peroration: but being always a little lazy and perhaps concluding upon the whole that it might be most politick to keep his Name out of it, and perhaps finding that the Work was already well done he neglected it. This I have from Kings own mouth.\u2014 It is to pass however for Hamiltons. All three consulted together upon most if not all the Pieces.\n          Another Piece of History of a very different kind. You knew Dr Redman, the Manager of the Assembly. The smiling the genteel the well bred\u2014the Gentleman like\u2014the I dont know what\u2014The Judge of some Court here\u2014 He went off this Morning in a stage in disgrace, to the southward\u2014 This he choose rather than open his Veins Pro more Roma novum.\u2014 Alass poor human nature! He has been slandered, with Imputations of something like what they call in London Ladys Pillage\u2014of a very gross kind however\u2014with so much success, that a voluntary Banishment is considered as a very humane & clement Punishment. I hate such subjects and therefore cannot and would not, if I could give you the details\u2014\n          I read forever, and am determined to sacrifice my Eyes like John Milton rather than give up the Amusement without which I should despair\n          If I did not with you consider the Universe as all one Family, I would never stay another day here.\n          I have read four thick Octavo Volumes of Tacitus translated by Murphy, One thick Volume of Homers Iliad translated by Cowper, besides a multitude of Pamphlets & Newspapers, since I have been here. I dont write enough. The Habit of Writing should not be lost as I loose it\u2014\n          Peter Pindar has it right\n            Search We the Spot which mental power contains?\n            Go where Man gets his living by his Brains.\n          If I had got my Living by my Brains for seven Years past I should have had more mental Power.\u2014 But Brains have not only been Useless but even hurtful and pernicious in my Course\u2014 Mine have been idle a long time\u2014till they are rusty.\u2014\n          Dr Bollman has given me an Account of his Intrigue to Liberate Fayette: for which I have heard a hint that he expects some office\u2014Entre nous\u2014But he will be disappointed\u2014 Fayettes disinterested unpaid services will cost Us very dear\u2014 Your son has already advanced to his Wife three hundred Guineas. Which I hope & suppose will be reimbursed to him.\n          Mischief always and Villany often lurks under Pretensions and Professions of service without Pay.\n          With affections which No time nor / Space will abate", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0076", "content": "Title: John Adams to Charles Adams, 31 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Charles\n            Philadelphia January 31. 1796\n          A fat Sleekheaded young Gentleman was here last Week or the Week before who told me he knew you, that you were well that you had a good share of Business: that your disposition was so amiable that People were fond of throwing Business into your hands &c\u2014 All\nthis was Musick in my Ears\u2014 I know not his name but am told he is a Limb of the Law in your City.\n          According to Peter Pindar Business is the best Life.\n            The Man to Titles and to Riches born\n            Amid the World of science how forlorn!\n            To Speak, to think, unable, mark his Air!\n            Heavens what an Ideot gape & Ideot stare!\n            Though Lord of millions, gilt with Titles o\u2019er\n            A Statue in a Library!\u2014no more!\n            Search We the Spot which mental Power contains!\n              Go where Man gets his living by his Brains.\n          As you, my son are under the Necessity of getting your Living and the Support of your Family by your Brains, you are in the fairest Way to obtain Mental Power, according to Peter and according to Truth.\n          Our Country affords a thousand Objects by which Profits and fortunes may be made, by a Mind that is awake and looks about it, by an Industry that is constant and a Prudence that is never off its guard.\n          I have had innumerable Opportunities in the Course of my Life, which the public Circumstances of the Country and the Delicacy of my Engagements in them have induced me to forego. I am now too old\u2014 But there is no Reason that my Children should starve them Selves because I have fasted. I hope, that never departing from Honour Integrity or Humanity they will however attend more to their private Interests than I have done.\n          I send you a little Volume, for which I was solicited to be a subscriber and am with / Love to Mrs Adams / your Affectionate\n            John Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0077", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 2 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia Feb. 2. 1796\n          I recd yesterday yours of 21. and 25 Jan. The Senate and House of Massachusetts without any flights or flashes in their Answer to the\nGovernors Spech have discovered a Gravity, Wisdom, Firmness and Dignity as much to their honour as it is to the Consolation of the Sober and impartial Part of the Community and the humiliation of all the corrupt and distracted.\n          I See daily So many affecting Proofs of the debilitating Power of Age, that I pity an old Man when he exposes himself. I had Yesterday a Sc\u00e6ne in my own Chamber, which moved the tender feelings of my heart for a Friend advanced in Years, not many however beyond my own. I feel bold and Strong myself, tho my hands shake but my Age admonishes me to have a Care.\n          It is devoutly to be wished that the Massachusetts had a Governor capable of diffusing his Thoughts over fifteen states and seeing their Dependences on each other as well as their Relations with foreign Nations. Mr Adams cannot. His Pride and Vanity are vastly more extensive than his Abilities. He always had a contracted Mind\u2014tho a subtle and a bold one. He never was over honest nor over candid. He will lie a little for his own Vanity and more for his Party, and as much as a Spartan for his notions of the public good.\n          Judge Cushing declines the Place of Chief Justice on Account of his Age and declining Health.\n          Let not my Communications worry thee. I am unchangeably determined to serve Under no other than Washington. Telemachus Says to the Suitors. 1. Odyssey. 490 &c\n            I am not averse\n            From Kingly cares if Jove appoint me Such.\n          I will not resist Jupiter\u2014 I will resign to his Will. If his Will is that that any other should be president I know his Will also is that I should be a Farmer\u2014for he has given me an understanding and a heart, which ought not and cannot and will not bow under Jefferson nor Jay nor Hamilton. It would be wicked in me. It would be countenancing Tyranny Corruption & Villany in the People.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0078", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 3 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            my Dearest Friend\n          Yours of Jan\u2019ry 20th reachd me the last post. there appears a universal pause. We do not get any thing from abroad, and the State Legislature are so federal that no warmth or altercation is to be heard or seen Congress are lying upon their oars, not hatching mischief I hope. the Chronical & Aurora join issue, and go on With their Mad rant, which is totally disregarded. the people have in general learnd how to estimate their contents\n          I believe a Subject which will excite all their feelings, is not thought of, or contemplated any more than if it could not happen. I Spent a week in Boston in the last Month, but did not hear a sugestion of the kind from any quarter but Knox; he came and sit down by me, and told me what you had before written me. I replied to him, that Such a report had prevaild the year before the last, & the last Year and I hoped it had as little foundation in Truth now as then. he said He believed nothing short of a storm which should Shake the constitution to its center, would alter the determination. I replied to him that it was a weighty and serious subject to the people, the concequences could not be foreseen, and I hoped the P\u2014\u2014t had not taken his determination unalterably as this past in a kind of a whisper. I changd the Subject as soon as I could. I askd no questions, nor intimated that the Subject had reach\u2019d me from any quarter, but as a former Rumour it is a subject which I tremble to think of. I am sure that it is a Momentous one, if Such is the determination. I should Suppose a suggestion of the kind would have been directly communicated to you.\n          the Government Stands firmer I believe for the shocks which it has received. the politicks of a foreign Nation are well understood in this State.\n          I had yesterday an application to me for the Quincy Farm, a son of Deacon Frenchs with his Brother in Law Bowditch. Your Brother Says they are both Smart Men. they proposed taking it jointly, if the terms were agreable. I told them as near as I could recollet and attended to some minuts you left. I have a person who talks of taking the Thayer Farm. they have it under consideration. Your directions to Copland will be attended to. We have Snow, and it is fine getting home the wood to what it is by carting. Copland & Joy are desirious of compleating that which they have nearly Done;\n          We are all well. Your Mothers arm is growing better Daily\n          There have been some cracks in the Brittle Ware at Boston. two pr cent pr Month for large Sums of Money, will require great gains to hold up long.\n          Mr Lamb as I Supposed had Letters from our sons which he put in his own trunk with a promise of delivering. they were all lost.\n          Remember me kindly to Mrs Washington & to Mrs Otis, and be assured / of the tenderest affection / of your\n            p s no mail to the Southard of N York this week so I Shall get no Letters. I suppose the ice in the north River the cause.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0079", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 6 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia Feb. 6. 1796\n          You Say you have no desire to be the first, and I cannot say that it is desirable: but according to all present appearances you will either be the first or among the last in another thirteen months. I would not distress myself to obtain the Priviledge of carrying an heavier Load than any of my fellow Labourers: but if the Fates destine one to attempt it it would be dastardly to Shrink if it were in ones Power. The Question ought to be whether the Forces of Nature are adequate at this age. They may possibly hold out one or two heats. I will not by any Pusillanimous Retreat throw this Country into the arms of a foreign Power, into a certain War and as certain Anarchy. If the People will do Such a Thing they shall have the undivided Glory of it.\n          Judge Cushing has been wavering, Sometimes he would and Sometimes he could not be C. J.\u2014 This will give the P. Some trouble. Mr Chace is a new Judge, but although a good 1774 Man his Character has a Mist about it of suspicion and Impunity which\ngives occasion to the Enemy to censure. He has been a warm Party Man, and has made many Ennemies. His Corpulency, which has increased very much Since I saw him last in England, is against his riding Circuits very long.\n          I find none of our old Men very popular. Whether it is that old Parties their Ennemies have made unfavourable Impressions or whether the Youth who are rising up are desirous of shoving them out of the Way: or whether they have too much Vanity and too many Prejudices and wrong Notions to see the public Good or whether all those Causes together have produced the Effect, I know not.\n          Mr Brisler says he has had but thirty Dollars since last May. You must write me how this account stands and I will pay him up in March.\n          No News from any Part of the World. All is stagnant Tranquility at present. I sent you a Porcupine by Mr Martin Lincoln. My Love & Duty as due", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0080", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams Smith, 6 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Smith, Abigail Adams\n            Dear Mrs. Smith:\n            Philadelphia, February 6, 1796.\n          I have received your kind letter of the first of this month. Mr. Langworthy appears to me, as he does to you, a man of information and good sense: how much of the projector and adventurer may be in him, time will discover; I know not his resources nor his connections. Searchers and diggers for mines have generally been as unsuccessful as inquirers after the philosopher\u2019s stone, a universal menstruum for converting all metals into gold. I have learned from him that Mr. John Cranch is a charming painter, but without much encouragement; which I always expected would be his destination. Dr. Bollman, too, has called on me, and with an extravagant character for knowledge and capacity, he appears to me to be an adventurer with still less judgment and solidity. A Franklin and a Bancroft sometimes succeed, after enterprises of a very wild and irregular kind; but an hundred fail and perish in their career, before they\nreach their object. I write these few free sentiments to you, confiding in your discretion, which I very well know.\n          Osgood, not the Milford parson, but the quandam member of Congress and the Navy Board, my old friend and correspondent, I am told is become a great student in the prophecies of Daniel and John, and that he has lately read Homer, (so have I,) and found out that it was written by King Solomon, and that under inspiration. He has written something and printed it; but whether he has published, or only keeps copies for his particular illuminated friends, I know not.\n          The world, my dear child, I think with you, is running wild, and quitting the substance to seize on a shadow. It is endeavouring to shake itself loose from every divine and moral tie, every restraint of law and government, every salutary bias of genuine discipline and virtuous education. If they could succeed, they would either wholly depopulate the earth, or at least restore the reign of savage and brutal barbarity. Oh my soul! come not thou into their secret!\n          There is a youth, I mean a young generation, coming up in America, which, I hope, will make good the ground of their predecessors. You, my dear daughter, will be responsible for a great share in the duty and opportunity of educating a rising family, from whom much will be expected.\n          I rejoice that my grandchildren are happily through the measles, and pray you to remember me to them, as well as to their father, and all friends.\n          I am, my dear child, / Affectionately your father,", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0081", "content": "Title: Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody to Abigail Adams, 6 February 1796\nFrom: Peabody, Elizabeth Smith Shaw\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dear Sister\n            Atkinson February 6th. 1796\n          The tender solicitude you have shewn for my health, demands the earliest return I can make\u2014& it is greatly to my satisfaction that I can inform you of my recovery, so as to be about the house again\u2014 I tried all in my power, not to have my indisposition noticed\u2014but I struggled in vain, for at last I was obliged to go to bed, & lie there for three days\u2014 I told William not to tell you how sick I was, but to say I had got cold\u2014 head-ach, & a cold you know are very accommodating, & will answer for any indisposition either of body, or mind\u2014 But I really did catch cold, last week, a thursday we had our wood brought, & I exerted myself a little too much at that time\u2014 I suppose I should have got along nicely if it had not been for my folly\u2014 \u201ccareless creature,\u201d I hear you say, now do not blame too much, because somebody who thinks they have a right gently to reprove, will fancy his hands strengthened, & look very grave, & say, I am sure you need not have done so\u2014 very true Sir, but I am not the first who have been wise too late\u2014\n          I received your two very kind letters the one to me, & the other to my Daughter last monday eve\u2014 Mr. Peabody found them at Mr. Duncan\u2019s, where we enquire of Rogers, or [Kindal?] for them, they come by him in the way of bundle for 4d, & if they go into the office 8 cents a single letter, 16 for a double, or under cover, & so on\u2014 But do not trouble yourself to pay Rogers, your Letters are cordials to my heart, & last monday saved me at lest half an ounce of Bark\u2014 I thank you my dear Sister, for your kindness, & the maternal affection you shew my Children\u2014 may they be more, & more worthy of your notice\u2014 They have failings, but I hope are not incorrigable\u2014 I wish them not to be so decided, so preremtory\u2014Youth should submit to years, & experience\u2014 It requires great discretion I find, to stand upon proper ground, & check the errors, the temerity of youth\u2014 I know of no persons better qualified for the purpose than my Sisters\u2014 The sweet Temper, & address with which some persons can reprove, would make an ingeneous mind doubly cautious, how they incurred, a second time their displeasure\u2014\n          Mr Shaw was excellent in governing youth\u2014 they loved & they feared him\u2014 That there should be a quick, ready observance & compliance to reasonable commands, & injunctions, was one of the fixed principles of his government\u2014 a wise Preceptor, or Parent will\nalways study the best interest of the Child, & I never love to see them reluctant, or hesitate when they have every reason in the world to suppose that a Parent scarcely wishes to live but for them\u2014 I do n[ot] make those observations because my Children are [more] refractory than others\u2014but I believe they are [ar]rived at the most critical age, & are as inexperienced as ever any were\u2014 They have got this great & important lesson to learn, that they know nothing know nothing how to estimate Characters; real worth nor what it is to live\u2014\n          Cousin Betsy leaves me tomorrow to spend a week, or two in Haverhill, & then she means to go to Boston, & Quincy, &cc\u2014 Mr Peabody says I lay no embargo upon any one, visit, & return as you find it agreeable\u2014suit yourself & be happy\u2014but I really fear they have no Idea of the priviledge they enjoy\u2014 It was said, William would not come, no\u2014I might depend upon it he was going to spend the whole vacation with you, but yet he was wise enough to come, & behaved with as much respect as it was possible, & has greatly endeared him", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0082", "content": "Title: Charles Adams to John Adams, 7 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, Charles\nTo: Adams, John\n          Our Legislature have been some time occupied in debating upon what are called The Virginia resolutions which you have doubtless seen and which have been so industriously forwarded to the different States for their concurrence though our good Sister has not been treated quite so cavalierly by New York as she was by Massachusetts yet I beleive they both concur in thinking her a very whimsical Old maid. Among the other objects which occupy the attention of our Statesmen the reduction of our penal code to a spirit of more mildness is one the most interesting to humanity. The Senate have passed a bill to abolish the punishment of death in all cases murder treason and burglary excepted. The House have also had under consideraton a bill for the gradual abolition of Slavery but it does not meet with much encouragement. I am not certain but it will be best to let the evil work its own remedy. individuals are daily\nliberating their Slaves but people do not like to be forced to be generous. The Quakers in this State formerly held slaves but they took it into their heads that it was wrong and set them universally at liberty. no sooner had they done this than they wanted to oblige their neighbours to do that by force which they had done voluntarily and the methods they take to attain their purpose are not always the most delicate. I have received several letters lately from Holland which have been opened and perused by The British. this is not very civil treatment but I have one consolation that they do not find many compliments paid them. Mrs Adams joins with me in the sentiments of respect with which I am your affectonate son\n            Charles Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0083", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 8 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia Feb. 8. 1796\n          It is monday, the Time to expect the Eastern mail other Men have Letters\u2014 I have none\u2014 humiliated and mortified and at the Same time irritated, I feel sometimes a disposition to abuse the Post offices, sometimes to make a rash Vow never to Spend another Winter seperated from my Small Family that remains to me, but never once harbour a Suspicion that Madam may have omitted to write.\n          Upon the whole however my health and Spirits have been better this Winter, than at any time Since I had the Ague, a Blessing which I attribute to the free Use of my horse the last summer. Health and Spirits & Leisure have revived my old Passion for Reading to such a degree as diverting me from my usual Exercise of Walking when I cannot ride, allarms me for the Continuance of my Health.\n          A gloomy Prospect moreover of four Months longer attendance upon Congress, aggravated by the Recollection that a few days later than this, the last Year, on the 19 of February I got my Release & Liberty, makes a great defalcation from my Philosophical Serenity.\n          While We are informed that you have Plenty of snow and fine sledding and slaying, We have Weather as mild as April and streets as dirty as march.\n          No further News of the Treaty or any Thing else from Europe\u2014 Business in Congress as languid as gaping & yawning as if Morpheus had poured out all his soporifecks upon the two Houses.\u2014 The Voice of Faction even is Scarcely heard. I suppose however when the Treaty comes he will lift up his Notes like a Trumpet.\n          General Wayne has returned and enjoyed his Tryumph Judge Chace is here with the rest\u2014 Mr. Lee the Attorney General a Brother of our Friend the late Member of the House and of the late Governor of Virginia, married to a Daughter of Richard Henry Lee is arrived with his Family\u2014so is Mr McHenry the Secretary at War. The offices are once more full.\n          But how differently filled, than when Jefferson Hamilton Jay &c were here\u2014 The present Incumbents not being much thought of or\nat least talked of for President Vice President, or substitute for both, the Public may be less disposed to fight for them or against them.\n          The first situation is the great Object of Contention\u2014the Center and main source of all Emulation as the learned Dr Adams teaches in all his Writings, and every Body believes him tho nobody will own it\u2014\n          My Letters to You must never be seen by any Body else\u2014and I ought here to caution you to be very careful and reserved in showing our sons Letters\u2014for thousands are watching for his halting, as well as mine & yours.\n          Mrs Green with her two Daughters are here and mourns in pathetic Accents that her Friend Mrs Adams is not here\u2014and so does", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0085", "content": "Title: John Adams to Charles Adams, 9 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Charles\n            Philadelphia Feb. 9. 1796\n          I recd this morning your favour of the 7th and am glad that your State have not too much Complaisance for the restless Projects of old Aunt Nell. The peevish fretful old Creature has got, to day, a worse Compliment from the senate of this State, than she recd even from the Massachusetts. They have not only rejected her vapoury humours but have proposed to her some other Amendments of the Constitution, which she will not relish. But as I have the Account of them only transiently from Mr Lewis, I will not attempt to give you an Account of them, but leave you to read them when they shall become public.\n          I have attended to day in the Supream Court an argument by Mr Marshall and Mr Campbell, of a great Question concerning the British debts which were paid into the Treasury of the state of Virginia before the Peace. These are able Lawyers and good Speakers.\n          Pray what are the Dates of your Letters from Holland? My latest from John is the 30 of septr.\u2014 We shall next hear of him from England.\n          Is Col Hamilton growing rich by his Profession? Does he shine at the Bar? Is he in great request among the Clients?\u2014 Who does he associate with him in Business? Does he Speculate in Lands or stocks like all the rest of the World\u2014or does he intend to drudge like me? and be a slave for forty Years for the honour of riding in Stage Coaches and living in noisy Taverns? while every Body about him is growing rich as well as riding in gay Coaches and building grand houses? Mr Neckar, in his Essay on the true Principles of Executive Power in great States. Vol. 1. p. 206 has a Passage which is worth quoting.\n          \u201cA Man who, like myself, has been Some Years placed in the Center of public affairs, who has been, one of the Axes round which the\nmotions of personal Interest perform their Circuit, is best able to judge from his own Experience of the Activity of those Interests and to perceive in what manner the human heart is influenced, irritated and Soothed by hope. Full often are the thoughts of Men employed upon their own personal Views when they affect most carelessly to neglect or most generously to sacrifice them. I grant that Individuals have for their days of parade a pompous and wonderworking Language; but I affirm that in their daily habits and their Secret Confessions, We find them always occupied either with the fortune they are pursuing, or the Eminence to which they aspire.\u201d Thus far Mr Neckar and I can add my Experience to his. There is a difference however\u2014 Some pursue their fortune and Elevation by fair and honourable Means, others by mean Craft, low Cunning wicked deceit, and vicious Courses of every sort.\u2014\n          The Popes Bull Quando quidem bonus Populus vult decipi, decipiatur, is practised by many of the most pretending Protestants, with as much Ardour as if they believed in his Holinesses Infallibility. Be honest Charles but be not their Dupe. I am, most affectionatel / your\n            John Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0090", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 15 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n          This Morning I have your favour of the 3d which raised my Spirits again after the mortification of passing the whole of last Week without one.\n          Benjamin has grown very dull\u2014No Abuse\u2014No lies no Terrors no Panicks no Rant\u2014in comparison of what he used to have\u2014\n          The Subject which you think will excite all their feelings is well known to every body in public Life, but is talked of by nobody: but in Confidence\u2014\n          I could name you however as good F\u0153deralists and as good Men as any, who think and say that he will retire and that they would, if they were he. And who would not? I declare upon my honour I would. After 20 Years of such Service, with Such Success, and with no Obligation to any one, I would retire before my Constitution failed, before my Memory failed before my Judgment failed\u2014before I should grow peevish & fretfull\u2014irresolute\u2014improvident\u2014 I would no longer put at hazard a Character so dearly earned at present so uncontaminated, but liable by the Weakness of Age to be impaired in a Moment.\n          He has in the most solemn manner Sworn, before many Witnesses at various times and on several occasions, and it is now by all who are in the Secret considered as irrevocable as the Laws of Meads & Persians. Your Comments to Knox were perfectly delicate and perfectly wise. You need not tremble to think of the subject.\u2014 In my Opinion there is no more danger in the Change than there would be in changing a Member of the senate and whoever lives to see it will own me to be a Prophet. If Jay or even Jefferson and one or the other it certainly will be, if the Succession should be passed over, should be the Man, the Government will go on as well as ever\u2014 Jefferson could not stir a step in any other system than that which is begun. Jay would not wish it. The Votes will run for three Persons\u2014two I have mentioned The third being the Heir apparent will not probably be wholly overlook\u2019d. If Jefferson & Jay are President & Vice President, as is not improbable, the other retires without Noise, or Cries or Tears to his farm\u2014 if either of those two are President and the other Vice President, he retires without Murmur or Complaint to his farm, forever.\u2014 if this other should be P. and Jefferson or Jay V. President, four Years more if Life lasts, of Residence in Philadelphia will be his and your Portion, after which We shall probably be desirous of imitating the Example of the present Pair: or if by reason of Strength and Fortitude Eight Years should be accomplished, that is the Utmost Limit of time that I will ever continue in public Life at any rate. Be of good Courage therefore and tremble not. I see nothing to appall me and I feel no ill forebodings or faint Misgivings. I have not the Smallest dread of private Life,\nnor of public\u2014 if private Life is to be my Portion my farm and my Pen shall employ the rest of my days.\n          The Money of the Country the Paper Money is the most unpleasant object I see\u2014 This must have a Remedy\u2014and I fear it will be reserved for me to stem the Torrent, a worse one than the Western Rebellion or the opposition to the Treaty.\n          This is all in Confidence and Affection", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0091", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 20 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            My Dearest Friend\n          Yours of the 6 8th and 10th came to me by the last Post. I too sometimes get dissapointed but I always lay the Charge to the post where I know it ought to fall, but not usually writing untill after thursday post arrives here. I have not the advantage of the office here unless I wait for the next Week, and a storm will sometimes, as last week, prevent my getting my letters to Town, but my conscience acquits me of Sins of omission. in that respect, I can seldom find more to say than one Letter contains. upon some subjects I think much more than I write. I think what is Duty, to others and what is Duty to ourselves. I contemplate unpleasent concequences to our Country if Your decision should be the same with the P\u2014\u2014s for as you observe, whatever may be the views and designs of Party, the chief of the Electors will do their Duty, or I know little of the Country in which I live. Shakspears says, [\u201c]some are born great, some atchive greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them\u201d You write me fully assured that the P is unalterably determind to retire. this is an event not yet contemplated by the people at large. We must be attentive to their feelings and to their voice. no Successor, can expect such support as the P. has had. the first Ministers have retired, and a Man without intrigue, without party Spirit, with an honest mind and a judicious Head, with an unspotted Character may be difficult to find as V P. this will still render the first Station more difficult. You know what is before You. the whips and Scorpions, the Thorns without Roses, the Dangers anxieties and weight of Empire.\n            And for the Day of trial is at hand\n            With the whole fortunes of a Mighty land\n            Are stakd on thee, and all their weal or woe\n            Must from thy good, or thy misconduct flow;\n            Have You Familiar with Your Nature grown\n            And are You Fairly to yourself made known?\n          and can You acquire influence sufficent as the Poet further describes\n            [\u201c]To still the voice of Discord in the land\n            To make weak Faction\u2019s discontented band\n            Detected, weak and Crumbling to decay\n            With hunger pinch\u2019d, on their own vitals prey;\n            Like brethren, in the self same intrests warm\u2019d\n            Like diff\u2019rent bodies, with one soul informd\n            To Make a Nation, Nobly raisd above\n            All meaner thoughts, grow up in common Love;\n            To give the Laws Due vigour, and to hold\n            That Sacred balance, temperate, Yet bold\n            With such an equal hand that those who fear\n            May yet approve, and own thy Justice clear;\n            To be a common Father, to Secure\n            The weak from voilence, from Pride the poor\n            To make fair plenty through the Land increase\n            Give Fame in War, and happiness in Peace\u201d\n          This is the bright and desireable light of the picture. this tho a hard and arduous Task, would be a flattering and a Glorious Reward, and Such a reward as all good Men will unite in giving to Washington, and such a Reward as I pray his Successor may Merrit and obtain. Should Providence allot the task to my Friend, but think not that I am alone anxious for the part he will be calld to act, tho by far the most important, I am anxious for the proper discharge of that Share which will devolve upon me. Whether I have patience prudence discretion sufficent to fill a station so unexceptionably as the Worthy Lady who now holds it, I fear I have not. as Second I have had the happiness of stearing clear of censure as far as I know. if the contemplation did not make me feel very Serious, I should say that I have been so used to a freedom of sentim[ent] that I know not how to place so many gaurds about me, as will be indispensable,\nto look at every word before I utter it, and to impose a silence upon my self, when I long to talk. here in this retired Village, I live beloved by My Neighbours, and as I assume no state, and practise no pagentry, unenvy\u2019d I sit calm and easy, mixing very little with the World.\n          You need not be apprehensive least I should shew your Letters or divulge what is committed to me. all rests within my own Breast. not the least lisp has escaped me to any one. for tho I love Sociabity, I never did or will betray a trust.\n          affectionatly Yours", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0093", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 21 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            My Deares Friend\n          I believe I must devote this page to the History of Farming. our people have carried up the Hill all the manure which they suppose will be necessary and which can be spaired from the corn ground. they have carried up Burrels quantity which will be necessary for the Land which is to be broke up upon pens Hill, and they are now getting Down the stones for the Wall on Quincys Medow. No crossing the mill pond this winter, nor has it been froze hard enough to get into a swamp. Captain Beals requests you would be So good as to send him 50 weight of clover seed with yours and Dr Tufts desires Brisler to get him one Hundred weight if it Does not exceed one shilling our currency pr pound.\n          My flower has arrived safe and Yesterday I got it, and Sent a Barrel to your Mother as you desired for which I know she will return you Many thanks tho I have not seen her since, I saw her Arm last week. there is not the appearence of a soar upon it. it is matter of surprize and proves the powerfull efficacy of carrots in such cases as the rose kind.\n          Burrel has taken the Braintree Farm the other is not yet Setled. Captain Beals has let his Farm here to the halves\u2014 Billings might be hired I Suppose if you thought he would answer for us. I know I could have him, but Do not know at What lay. I should suppose one good hand with Copland, for I suppose I must keep him Would be sufficient for this place\u2014 write me what you think\n          I wrote mr Brisler a statement of the account as it stood upon My Book, and as it appeard by receits. I mistook as he supposed I had.\n          I am very sorry that Judge Cushing has refused his appointment. Chace is not a Man from all I have heard, Who will make mr Jays place good\n            \u201cHow can a judge enforce that Law gainst some poor Elf\n            Which conscience tells him, he hath broke himself\u201d\n          the fountain of Justice should be as pure as Virgin innocence the Laws can neither be administerd or respected, if the Minister of them is not unspotted.\u2014\n          Camillus always appeard to me to have more than one hand engaged. there is a difference very apparent in the Numbers. is Camillus thought of or talkd of for V. P.\n          but I am running again into politicks When I did not design a word upon the Subject. I must therefore conclude\n          affectionatly Yours\u2014\n            Abigail Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0094", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 22 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            My Dearest Friend\n          Mr Quincy and Mr Copley made me a visit this afternoon. mr Copley arrived from England about 2 Months Since and is going to spend a year in America. he is the only son of our Friend. I believe you may recollect him. he talk of visiting Philadelphia. if he does I shall give him a Letter to you. mr Quincy seems much pleas\u2019d with his Tour, and Speaks with much gratitude of the kindness and attention he experienced from you, whilst he was unwell in Philadelphia. I fear he will be a looser by the late failures.\n          I saw a paragraph in Russels centinel of Yesterday which is a very lose and blind one. \u201cSummarhy of the Southern Mail arrived last Evening. Charles Adams esqr has arrived in Philadelphia, and is said to have been charged with the Treaty lately concluded with the Dey of Algiers, who has Sent as a present to the President of the united States an Elegant Gold Mounted Sword.\u201d no date, no place arrived from, mentiond I do not know, nor ever heard of any Charls Adams a broad I can not Suppose it Thomas. I do not know how he could come by the Treaty. The only conjecture I can Make is that possibly Such an instrument may have arrived at N York to the care of the Govenour, and that he may have Deputed Charles as the Bearer of it to Philadelphia\u2014 It is also said that the Treaty with Spain had arrived, and was sent on from Boston. if so, the Senate\nwill awake from their Slumber, and buisness will begin to be more interesting. Captain Beals as usual when he returns from court, comes in to see me, and tell me as well as he knows how the News and politicks of the Week. his News of last Evening was that the President had determined to resign. I askd him where he learnt such News he said he had Dined with Mr T Russel and heard it at his Table. I asked him who the company were. he said a Number of country Representitives. the intelligence was from mr Russel\n          I did not chuse to ask him what Was said upon the occasion. I only remarkd to him that such a Rumour had formerly prevail\u2019d;\n          I have written You several Letters the week past. I hope, as you appear to be so anxious about Letters, that you will get them in Due Season. I would not willingly dissapoint you. I have nothing very interesting to write. it can only be a solisitude to know that I am well for even the Farmers calender is at this Season comprised in a Line. I am sorry to inform you, that we have two Lambs\u2014poor Rogues the Season is too cold for them yet. our Men begin to grow very covetous about their English Hay, and do not like that James\u2019s Horses should spend so much of it. I suppose I shall be obliged to Buy some. Trask calld upon me for 8 Dollors which he said he was to have for clearing a swamp in Curtis\u2019s pasture, & I Supposd it was right, and I pay\u2019d him; no News yet from our Dear Sons. there is a vessel in from Roterdam which left it, Middle of December. she is at the Vineyard. no Letter or Paper from her yesterday. I do hope to hear.\n          Mr Quincy made Me very happy by telling me that you appeard to enjoy your Health very well this winter. I hope it may be continued to your / affectionate", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0095", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 27 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n          I dined Yesterday with Mr Madison. Mrs Madison is a fine Woman and her two sisters are equally so: one of them is married to George Washington one of the two Nephews of the President who were sometimes at our House. Mr Washington came and civilly enquired after your Health. These Ladies, whose Names were Pain, are of a Quaker Family once of North Carolina.\n          The Treaty with Spain is arrived and is according to our Wishes. The Algerine Treaty is horridly Costly. It is worse than the British: but will not be so fiercely opposed.\n          There is no Vessell here for Boston: I can not yet send any seeds.\n          The great Affair is as it was\u2014 I hear frequent Reflections which indicate that Jefferson, although in good hands he might do very well; yet in such hands as will hold him, he would endanger too much.\u2014 Some Persons of high Consequence have Spoken to me confidentially\u2014 But in general there is great delicacy on that head and I hold an entire reserve. The Question with me is between entire Ease and entire Disquietude. I will not fly from the latter nor will I court it. I can live as happily without a Carriage as Hamilton\n          Two great Political Questions have been agitated in the supream Court. one about Virginia Debts paid into the Treasury\u2014the other the Constitutionality of the Carriage Tax. Hamilton argued this last for three hours with his usual Splendor of Talents & Eloquence as they say. In the Course of his argument he said no Man was obliged to pay the Tax. This he knew by Experiment: for after having enjoyed the Pleasure of riding in his Carriage for six years he had been obliged to lay it down and was happy.\n          There is no hope of getting away till June. The House never went so slowly on.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0096", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, [28] February 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            my Dearest Friend\n          Thursday is My Red Letter Day. then I usually get your favours, and a package of papers. the last thursday was particularly so. I received yours of the 10 13 15 & 17th of Febry, and two Letters from our Dear Sons one dated Helveotsluice Novbr 7th from the Minister, the other of the 9th from the Hague. the wind had been contrary for near three weeks, and he poor fellow cooped up in a paltry Inn, and cut off as he says from all humane communication almost as intirely as if he had changed worlds but this he ought not to regreet as it saved him from the Dangers of the perilious Nov\u2019br Storm which proved fatal to so many poor Souls. a Letter from Thomas to J Quincy of a later Date 25 Novbr says he heard that his Brother arrived in London on the 10th. neither of their Letters are political, to avoid I presume the fate which Some others have met with, of being retaind when captured. possibly Letters may have gone on to you from mr Adams, for Thomas apology for writing only a short Letter, was, that his Brother for want of better Employment, had amused himself during his detention by writing and sending him to Coppy a great Number of Letters of no Moderate Length, which added to the buisness of a publick nature entrusted to his care, prevented him from writing to many of his Friend\u2019s. I do not know Whether I ought to Send you Johns Letter. it is in answer to one you wrote him, or rather to that part of it, in which you mentiond to him\nCharles Marriage & express a wish that at an early period \u201che might return home, and assume in like manner the cares and enjoy the felicities of a Family.\u201d he observes that tis a Maxim of Rochefoucaults, that We sometimes pass from Love to Ambition, but that we never return from Ambition to Love. if this Maxim is true, he Says, what respite is to be expected by one who has past from Love, not indeed to ambition, but at least to its concerns. he proceeds and much more fully than he ever before did, lays open what had been the state of his Heart, \u201cto Sacrifice the choice of the Heart, was all that prudene or Duty can require. it can not it will not receive from my own controul, or from any other, the imposition of a different choice. if it can choose again, its Election must be spontanious, without receiving any direction from the Will\u201d\n          I hope we shall Soon get Letters from him by way of England.\n          you will see by the Centinel that the Presidents Birth Day Was celebrated, with more than usual Festivity in Boston, and many other places. in the Toasts drank, they have for once done justice to the V P. it is a Toast that looks, I conceive to a future contemplated event.\n          I am glad that your mind appears so Well Setled for what ever may take place, but who in their Senses could suppose that you would continue to serve in your present station with any other than Washington. who could wish or desire it must be destitute of your feelings or mine. to be the private citizen would not mortify me, but there remains not a Man in America, whose publick Services entitle him to the office, What ever his own opinion or that of his Friends may be.\n            \u201cAll envy power in others, and complain\n            of that which they would perish to obtain\u201d\n          I am happy to learn that You enjoy Your Health so well. the Season is approaching When colds are prevelent. You are so subject to them that I daily expect You to complain. every Body far and near are Suffering with them. I have my Share, but hope it will not lay me up\u2014\n          ever your / affectionate", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0097", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 28 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            my Dearest Friend\n          You left directions that Mr Pratt was to cut the Trees upon the plane for Timber to build a Barn this he has Done and our Teams have Drawn it, but upon inquiry I found that there would not be half enough for the Building. I inquired of Dr Tufts what conversation You had with him upon the subject, and of Pratt what You had Said to him. the Dr recollected that You talkd of building an addition to the Barn of the Same Size but that you did not conclude upon any thing. Pratt said he was not engaged to cut any more. the Season Would have past before I could have received any answer So I thought it best to proceed & get the remainder from the Woods. I accordingly Sent Pratt & his hands to cutt the rest, and our Teams to get it home. they did very well the first Day, but the second comes a Thaw & put a stop at present to their getting it home. it is ready for the first opportunity which I do not yet despare of\u2014\n          The Manure upon the Hill which Was made last fall, I Suppose you mean for to be Spread upon the Grass ground where it lies. You propose to let all the Salt meddow except Penny ferry & seven or 10 acres which used to be brought here. Copeland requests that the Thatch bank may be let, but neither French or Bowditch seem to covet it joy complains sadly of his Hay, the Salt I mean, which he Says was not half made and is Rotten & Rusty. our people make a Similar complaint here at home, tho it is not so bad, but we are just upon Spring, tho there are three Months yet that the cattle want Hay. there is plenty but they Do not Eat it well.\n          If comfort consists in quietness I believe Dr Preistly may say that his old Age is the pleasentest part of his Life. if he come forward in America, and takes an active part, he May find that Malice Envy and Evil Speaking, are not confined to great Britain\u2014\n          We hear no more of Debates in Senate than if the Gallery was shut.\n          Tell Mrs Green that I know she will rejoice with me, that the fine Hair which she Solicited Genll Wane to leave her, was not as she prophesied Sacrificed to the Tome Hauk, but that it still remains to adorn the head of the Wearer now crowned with laurels.\n          present me kindly to mrs Washington and to all other Who express a regard for Your\n            P S\u2014 Mrs Brisler lost her Sister Baxter on Saturday", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0098", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Abigail Adams, 28 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dear Mother.\n          The last Letter I wrote you should have gone by the Galen, but from being postponed to the last moment, the opportunity was lost, and it will now be delivered to you, together with this by my friend Mr: Gardner who goes with Scott. He has also the goodness to take charge of the cloaks for yourself and Louisa, for which you wrote to my brother Thomas. As he remained at the Hague, I undertook the commission myself, and hope you will think I have acquitted myself of it to your satisfaction. I must not however pride myself much upon the subject, for I have given full proof upon another commission which came at the same time, of satin for Mrs: Welsh, that I am not always to be trusted in this way. The Doctor sent a small strip for a pattern, and I am perfectly ashamed to say that I have lost it\n          The cloaks were chosen by Mrs: Johnson, and by her second daughter, a very amiable young lady bearing the name of Louisa Catherine, which was one of my inducements for requesting her to select the cloak for her namesake. You will please to request of Louisa her acceptance of it as a token of my regard, and will permit me to present the other, as a mark of grateful affection to yourself.\n          I have received your letter by Mr: Coles, containing twenty coupons for which you wish to have new obligations taken. As I am in expectation of returning in a short time to the Hague I shall take them with me. I shall purchase you a watch agreeable to your request, but such an article requiring some time for trial before its merit can be ascertained I shall send it by some future opportunity.\n          From the newspapers which I send you will find that nothing very\nmaterial is now passing in Europe. The talk about negotiations for Peace continues, but it is too late in the season to expect an agreement without the trial of another campaign. Such at least is the probable appearance, though all the belligerent powers\n            \u201cHowe\u2019er they may affect the style of Gods\u201d\n          are exhausted beyond the possibility of much further endurance\n          The pamphlets of Louvet and Madame Roland. The life of Dumouriez and the apologetic account of Sieyes have been so long published, that possibly they may have reached you already. They contain many curious and interesting details upon the strange eventful history of the french Revolution, which has had so many desperate enemies, so many frantic friends, and so few impartial judges.\n          Every thing here is very quiet, although the scarcity of bread is constantly increasing. The winter has been mild beyond all example, which has been a great alleviation to those who would have suffered most from the scarcity, but apprehensions are entertained that its effect upon the following harvest, will be unfavourable.\n          Our latest Letters from America, give us upon the whole a more pleasing aspect of the state of affairs than we had apprehended. They encourage the hope that our Peace will yet be preserved, and this comprehends in itself the enjoyment of almost every blessing that a Nation can possess.\n          Mr: Randolph\u2019s pamphlet has been republished here, and a very curious thing it is. Among the thousand proofs that I meet with every day of the influence that party spirit has upon the moral sense I have considered it as one of the strongest, that there are Americans who avow themselves of opinion that his conduct amounted only to an indiscretion, and that he has been harshly treated.\n          While I am writing I receive the Boston Centinels to the 27th: of January. The speech of the Governor at the opening of the Session is almost as strange to me as Randolph\u2019s Vindication. Indeed the People of Massachusetts have great respect for persons, or they would hardly suffer a man depreciated to the delivery of such a speech to appear in the face of the World, as their chief Magistrate. The answers of the two Houses are a little more considerate, though the \u201cmost popular\u201d branch as his Excellency has it, cannot help a trifle of trimming as usual.\n          My latest letters from my brother Thomas were of January 27. He\nhas had a touch of his old rheumatic complaint but had got better, and writes in good spirits. I hope to see him again soon, but how soon I am yet unable to say.\n          Your ever affectionate Son", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0099", "content": "Title: Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody to Abigail Adams, 28 February 1796\nFrom: Peabody, Elizabeth Smith Shaw\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dear Sister\n          I am very sorry that I could not send Betsy Quincy with her Cousin, but my being unwell prevented my having her in readiness\u2014 Upon my own account I feel loth to part with her, but when I consider her advantage, & how much she improved in the last year,\nI think I should be doing her injustice, if I were not solicitous to place her again in a situation, where having gained five talents, she might gain five more; wishing that she might have her mind impressed with the necessity of striving to excell in Every thing that is worthy of praise\u2014in that kind of knowledge which may qualify her for useful life\u2014cultivating that modest condescending, sweet disposition which is the ornament of our Sex, & the only mean of making ourselves, or others happy. Betsy Quincy has enjoyed very good health since she came home, has not been troubled with alarming head-ach\u2019s\u2014 I suppose her ride home was of service to her\u2014but I fear as the Spring comes on, she will be unstrung again\u2014 my Children\u2019s fibres are all too relaxed\u2014 They partake too much of their Mothers feeble Constitution. When I think of my self, I am astonished that this feeble fabrick of mine should have continued to this day\u2014 I know not how it has been preserved\u2014it seems as if much firmer tenements must have fallen\u2014 After severe shocks I recruit, & hope to be useful Yet in Life, & enjoy my full portion of happiness, by endeavouring to make those arround me pleased, accommodating myself not only to the Family I am in, but to the Parish, learning of you to rise with dignity, & fall with ease\u2014with the grave to be serious, with the gay, to be cheerfull, kindly affectioned to all, evincing to the world a principle within, which like a pole Star guides & directs Every motion\u2014\n          I thank you for all your kindness to William, I hope he will be preserved from evil, & those temptations which await an inexperienced youth\u2014\n          I know you will be sorry to find Betsy still stoops downward. I have done everything in my power to persuade, & command, & flatter her, if possible into a more erect posture\u2014but all in vain\u2014 her bones will be closely knit soon, & her shape will be ruined\u2014 I have had more hard words upon this account than I ever thought I should have with a child\u2014 She is always displeased when I tell her she can, & ought to stand better\u2014 I had some serious talk with her upon the subject, & have told her, I should not say more, she might take her course\u2014 She might see me look distressed by her leaning, & standing, but I would not speak unless I forgot\u2014 Still my Sister I am loth to give her up. I wish you if possible my Sisters to devise some method to get her up\u2014 I know she can stand as strait as you, or I, & it is nothing but a trick\u2014 It seems as if my Children, had more singularities than others\u2014 I intend to keep a close watch upon\nAbby\u2014& in Mr Peabody I have an attentive Partner, who is one of the warmest advocates for female education, & will I doubt not, assist me in the education of this little cheerful creature\u2014 he loves her very much already\u2014 He thinks Betsy Quincy capable of making a fine woman, when her Judgment is properly matured\u2014that she still wants a steady hand, firm, & tender\u2014\n          You say you gave William leave to open my Letter, I believe we must be a little cautious\u2014 I forget particulars\u2014 I think it was not quite so bad as \u201cwhip the bearer\u201d\u2014though possibly he might find a check upon himself\u2014\n          I hope you will make Betsy useful to you, it will most assuredly give her pleasure, as well as to your affectionate / Sister\n            Elizabeth Peabody", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0100", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Quincy Adams, 29 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          Seven Months were nearly elapsed, from the Date of Your former Letter, to the receipt of yours on the 22 of this Month Which was of Nov\u2019br 7th; from Helvoetsluice. You from experience can judge, how acceptable it was to me. the very sight of a Letter exilirates my Spirits, and I tread back ten years in an instant.\n          I felt all you described from your Situation, and could trace you into the Same appartments which I had occupied on a former occasion, experiencing the same impatience and Disgust, but on the Ill of Wight. tho a Much pleasenter Spot, all my patience was exhausted by a three weeks detention, without Work, without Books. I never knew before the force of that expression, Ennui, for which I believe we have not any English word, but the thing itself I felt in all its force. Those Scenes have all past as a Dream; and Many others have rapidly Succeeded. I have now been Stationary for three years. Whether I am to remain so, or Whether a different portion is allotted for me, remains to be unfolded of one thing I am certain, that if Envy owes Me a grudge, now is her time to covet my portion of felicity, whilst I am in the peacefull enjoyment of Domestick\nquiet, free from the anxious cares & Solisitudes, Which are always attendant upon the Most elevated Stations\n            O Might Reflection, Folly\u2019s place Supply\n            Would she one moment use her pierceing Eye\n            Then might she learn what woe from Ruling springs\n            And learn to pitty, not to Envy xxxxx\u2014\n          it was Naturel my Dear son for you, to make the reflections you Did upon your Fathers wish, and at the Same time learning that Your Brother was united to the choice of his Heart. I do not wonder that it awakened the Dorment feelings of Your soul, and uncoverd the fire, which tho Smotherd, gleamd up again, upon the recollection of the Sacrifice You had made.\n          \u201cWhen Stern prudence quenchd the unwilling flame\u201d only virtuous Souls are capable of true attachments, and Sincere Friendships are more generally form\u2019d at an early age, when the Heart is tender Soft and unsuspicious, before we have been jostled by the tumults of Life, and put out of humour and conceit of the World or the paltry competitions of Ambition and avarice freeze up the generous current of the Soul, but it must be longer than I hope you will remain single, before you reach that frigid state. therefore Do not despair of one Day feeling a similar regard for a kindred soul Yet in reserve for You. That particular Providence which presides over all his creatures, had some demands upon You, and some call for the exercise of those tallents entrusted to you, which could be better performd in a single, than a Married state. a connection at that early period of your Life, would have embarressed You, and greatly frustrated your future usefulness. let the consciousness of having acted right console you. prehaps it Might be, encouraging a hope that prudence ought to surpress, if I was to Say that I believed the object of Your regard, will never connect herself whilst you remain Single. She may not appear to you in a few years with all those outward attractions which the Bloom of 18 gave her. Time will Dim the Lusture of the Eye, and wither the bloom of the face, tho it may perfect and mature those Mental attractions Which yeald a more permanant, and solid satisfaction, when the ardour of passion, setles into the more lasting union of Friendship or to express myself in the words, of the Lover, and the poet,\n            \u201cThe Damask roses blooming in her face\n            Alass too soon shall wither and decay,\n            And Natures hand that gave the glowing Grace\n            that very hand shall take it soon away;\n            Yet while he plants the wrinkles on her Brow\n            And plucks the flowing Auburn from her Head\n            Superiour Beauties shall old Time bestow\n            And give the Virtues in the Graces stead\u201d\n          Your Brother Charles writes me that he is very happy in his connection. Sally is an amiable virtuous Girl, with every disposition to make him a good wife and it will be his fault, if he is not in future what he now is. when I was in NYork I had much conversation with her, and tho I advised them to continue longer single, I did not wish to Shake their determination, to be for none other.\n          as this Letter Seem to be appropriated to Love, I will not contammiate it with politicks but conclude it with the wish of Dulcinea that I would Speak a good word for her. I read to her that part of Your Letter in which You speak so Well of her Swain. it lighted up her countanance and brightned it into a smile and a blush; after standing a moment or two contemplating upon it, she said it was very refreshing to her. she wonderd when You would come home. I believe he has not received a Letter I inclosed to you for him. you do not acknowledg the recept of any dated in sep\u2019br\n          I received a Letter from Thomas of the same date with Yours, but one of the 25 to Mr Quincy gave me the agreable intellegence of your safe arrival in London You will get many Letters from Your Friends if they arrive safe\n          The last Letter from you to your Father was dated in october and No 12\u2014\n          we have been a long time Without intellegence from abroad. The Treaty with Algiers was brought to N York by col John Smith from Lisbon, & Charles went express with it, and the Sword and other Presents to the President on the 10th of this Month. neither the British or spanish Treaty had arrived on the 20th. I came very nigh breaking my word without reflecting upon my promise on the other page, to avoid further Temptation I subscribe your / ever affectionate Mother\n            Abigail Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0101", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 1 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n          Yesterday the President sent his Carriage for me to go with the Family to the Theatre. The Rage and the Spoiled Child were the two Pieces. it rained and the House was not full. I thought I perceived a little Mortification. Mr George Washington & his fair Lady were with Us.\n          Yours of 21st gives me a Satisfactory Account of farming. I think I would engage Billings if I could\u2014 I must leave it to you to give him what you think fit.\n          There is no Vessell up for Boston and Seeds are very Scarce and uncommonly dear.\n          As to the Subject of yours of the 20th. I am quite at my Ease\u2014 I never felt less Aniety when any considerable Change lay before me. aut transit aut finit\u2014 I transmigrate or come to an End. The Question is between living at Phila. or at Quincy. between great Cares and Small Cares. I have looked into myself and See no meanness nor dishonesty there. I See Weakness enough. But no timidity. I have no concern on your Account but for your health. A Woman can be silent, when she will.\n          After all, Persuasion may overcome the Inclination of the Chief to retire\u2014 But if it should, it will Shorten his days I am convinced. His heart is set upon it, and the Turpitude of the Jacobins touches him more nearly than he owns in Words. All the Studied Efforts of the F\u0153ds, to counterballance Abuses by Compliments dont answer the End. I Suspect, but dont know, that Patrick Henry, Mr Jefferson, Mr Jay and Mr Hamilton will all be voted for. I ask no questions: but questions are forced upon me\u2014 I have had Some Conversations purposely Sought, in order as I believe indeed as I know, to\nconvince me, that the F\u0153ds had no thought of overleaping the Succession.\n          The only Question that labours in my Mind is whether I shall retire with my file Leader? I hate to live in Phila. in Summer and I hate still more to relinquish my farm\u2014 I hate Speeches, Messages Addresses & answers, Proclamations and such Affected, studied constrained Things\u2014 I hate Levees & Drawing Rooms\u2014 I hate to Speak to a 1000 People to whom I have nothing to Say\u2014 Yet all this I can do\u2014 But I am too old to continue more than one or at least most more than two heats, and that is scarcely time enough to form conduct & compleat any very useful system.\n          Electioneering enough We shall have\u2014the enclosed Scraps will shew Specimens.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0102", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 2 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            my Dearest Friend\n          Our Little Town of Quincy is become so rich that they can vote a Thousand Dollors to Build a School House, Yet cannot pay a Tax to their Minister which has been Due for more than two years. Your proportion of the Tax for the present Year including your part of the 300 for the School house is 187 Dollors 30 cents. the Braintree Tax I have not yet seen. both the collector & the School committe want the Tax. I promised Baxter that he Should have 50 Dollors of it provided he would make an exertion to get the rest for mr Wibird as he said he was determined to do by March meeting. our Neighbour Joseph Baxter is the collector. Captain Beals has really made a fine story out to the Town & prevaild upon them to vote & Tax for this Thousand Dollors to Build the School House. I should have supposed 500 might have answerd as well. it is to be Set upon the\nGreen by the meeting house, built 2 Storey high. the School House to be divided, part for Girls & part for Boys, over the whole a large Room for the Town to Do buisness in, or to be let as an Assembly Room. Quincy is to Rival Hingham. we shall have an accademy, and being so much nearer Boston Gentlemen & Ladies will prefer sending their children here. it will bring into Town a Mint of Money, & raise the value of estates in Town Six pr cent, and all this I have Done for the Town. at this very \u0153conomical time of Building I fancy the cash will come harder than the vote. the Timber is cut & Pratt has engaged to Build it.\n          Mr Wibird has not been out but once this winter, and then was not able to get in or out of the Carriage but with help. How can you says Yorick; captain shandy live comfortless and alone, without a Bosom to lean Your head upon\u2014or trust Your cares to? next to that, is being seperated half a Year at a Time. no Man even if he is sixty Years of age ought to live more than three Months at a Time from his Family, and our Country is a very hard hearted tyrannical nigardly Country. it has committed more Robberies upon me, and obliged me to more Sacrifices than any other woman in the Country and this I will mantain, against any one who will venture to come forward and dispute it with me. as there never can be a compensation for me, I must sit down with this consolation that it might have been worse.\n          we have a Young Gentleman Preaching for us by the Name of Fisk. upon the whole I like him better than any other we have had. in the first place he has an Excellnt countanance, in the 2d he is very social & much of a Gentleman, and in the 3d he is a very good preacher I do not however expect that we shall ever be so fortunate as to get all these qualifications united in a minister for Quincy\n          The Season is mild, the Snow is leaving us. I must think of attacking the canker worm\u2014if any such I find. Grain is rising fast. I am thankfull I am so well supplied with flower. I have not been able to purchase Rye under 9 Shillings pr Bushel. corn has got to seven I hear. if our places are out I hope we shall not have occasion to Buy. I must soon have an other hand. mr Bass\u2019s services are not worth much. the old Man has the Jaundice, and is weak and feeble. Copland has been so steady through the winter that I must keep him I presume provided he does not rise too high in his price. he knows so well every part of the Farm & the buisness, But with new hands I should be at a loss in your absence.\n          we have had for three Days last week a fog as thick as\nPhiladelphia, so it put me in mind of the old story, [Sprawls?] &c I hope to shake it of, for I am better of my cold, and the Bark I have had recourse to.\n          The last of Your Fathers sisters Dyed a fortnight since. I learnt it only from the Chronical for the Family never sent us any word, not even to your Mother who was here on saturday and desires to be rememberd to you With Parental affection. I bought the good Lady a winter Gown when I was in Town, with which she was much pleasd. it did me good to see how much, and I have it in Charge over & over again to thank You for the flower Sent. I think her Health better for the discharge she has had from her Arm\u2014\n          I am with the Sincerest Regard / ever your", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0103", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 3 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n          I recd this morning your favour of Feb. 22.\u2014the more agreable as it was not very confidently expected. I should be glad to see Mr Copley.\n          Charles brought the Treaty from Col. John Smith who brought it from Lisbon. I hope you will have Letters by the Vessell you mention from Rotterdam.\n          The Treaties with Spain & Algiers have been unanimously Sanctioned by senate and that with Britain is proclaimed. The House will try to make a little Noise.\n          Elsworth was this day nominated Chief Justice\u2014I see that at Boston & Cambridge &c the Birth Day was celebrated with great Splendor as it was here\u2014 The old song is verified as I always said it would be \u201cThe more he is envied the higher he\u2019l rise.\u201d Increase of abuse will produce an increase of Adulation.\n            What gave great Villiers to th\u2019 Assassins Knife\n            And fix\u2019d disease on Harleys closing Life?\n            What murder\u2019s Wentworth and what exil\u2019d Hyde\n            By Kings protected and to Kings ally\u2019d?\n            What but their Wish indulged in Courts to shine\n              And Power too great to keep or to resign?\n          The Power of the P. may be too great to keep or to resign. If it is, he may meet with the Fate of Harley.\n          It is, Somehow, Strangely, the Opinion of many and among those are some of his best Friends that he ought to retire. No one, that I have heard, has presum\u2019d to say he would not if he were in the P.s case.\u2014\n          He has now settled all Disputes with foreign Nations and may retire with undiminish\u2019d Glory.\n          I find the V. P. toasted at most of the Feasts and even Brown has announced Mr Adams\u2019s appearance at the Theatre with Pleasure. All this is as I, conjecture Electioneering. The other side will probably begin soon. And I shall regard it all with as much Apathy, as is in my nature.\u2014 I feel collected and unmoved. The Principle of the Conclave goes a great Way in many Elections. All Parties will frequently concurr in the Choice of the oldest Cardinal, because he cannot hold the Papal Chair long.\u2014 I am so old that they all know they can make me miserable enough to be glad to get out of it as soon as Washington if not in half the time.\n          June is the earliest Month that gives a hope to release me. I Suppose you must buy hay\u2014 You have not told me whether I am to expect a Colt. Am glad our Men are frugal of their English Hay.\n          I am most affectionately and / ardently, notwithstanding I have been / so so long your", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0104", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 5 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            my Dearest Friend\n          Thursday post brought me Yours of the 20th 23 & 24. we have had a good Season for buisness and our Teams have Stood Still a very few Days the whole winter. they have carted Me home all the Wood cut by vesey. they have carried all the manure up pens Hill designd for the corn. they have Sledded Some stones and they have carried up 36 loads of manure upon the Stoney Feild Hill. they have Drawn all the Timber home from the plain and some from the Woods, and by the help of a little Snow again tho a Small quantity. they are going this Day to get home Some more. our cattle have not fed on corn oats or Barley. be sure Copland has given them their share of English Hay, but all agree that the cattle look much better than they did last Year. I ought to have enumerated the manure carted & spread upon Quincy meddow. that Ground I have retaind for this place. as Soon as the Season will permit the Hill before the Door\nwill be cross plowd our people say the turnings are so short, that it will take more Time and is worse to plow than when first Done. So much for Farming\n          The Electionering Toast, You sent me, I answer by one equally good, from Ipswich [\u201c]3. John Adams. May his Virtues, Genius and knowledge long revolve, the first planet from our political Sun\u201d poor Sam\u2019ll got a Rap. \u201cSam\u2019ll Adams. May not the errors of Dotage disgrace that Life whose manhood was usefull to his Country.[\u201d] the Toast were all good and sentimental as were those of Newburry port. 2d was the V President and congress may the prosperity and happiness of the American people, still form their Eulogy. 8th. The Ancient Dominion\u2014May the State that gave Birth to a Washington never tarnish her Lusture by disorganizing measures. 9th The late Self-created Societies\u2014Peace to their manes. May no sacrilegious hand Disturb their ashes.\n          I thank you for mr Harpers address. a Friend had sent me one before, of the 1 Edition. I cannot say that the thought did not occur to me, that the letter of mr Jays would be attributed to the Motive asscribed. I believe it to be a fair and honest statement of his sentiments, written in plain Simple stile.\n          I yesterday received a Letter from Thomas of the 1 of December which I inclose to you. I think we may expect daily to hear from England I hope to get Letters from thence I shall send to Thomas by a vessel going to Amsterdam Peter P. & mr Harpers address. if you have all Camillus in a Pamphlet, be So good as to send Me one. We have only printed here 22 Numbers\n          I hope you will write our Dear Sons, particularly Thomas by any vessel going to Hamburgh or Holland as the communication is more difficult, to him than to England. return me his Letter when you have read it\n          I know Law. he will never See 45 again unless he lives to ninety. he will Do for a Virginna Girl, who would stand no chance, where Black are so plenty and Manners so licentious of Marrying one of her own States Men, without some progeny. I suppose they are not over Delicate in their feelings. I would not give up the Heavenly sinsations of a virtuous Love, even at this advanced period of Life, for all the wealth of all the Indias. my Children are much dearer to me than they could otherways have been, and much more deserving of my Regard. I do not like these Marriages of Jan\u2019ry & May, particularly, when Jan\u2019ry is batterd by passing inclement Seasons and\nconnected with profligate companions, even tho a Jointure was to be added in proportion to the Age of the Party, or the hundreds increased as the head was hoary, and the Frame enfeabled. there never can be with such a Disparity, a Durable union of Hearts. Age must blunt the fine feelings of the Soul, and the delicious harmony of according Hearts. Nature is opposed to it, or why has she placed at so great a Distance from each other the Torrid and the frigid Zones?\n          You must not tell the Good Lady all this Story. tell her that I hope the connextion will be productive of much Satisfaction to her, but that I say when I was young I liked a young Man much better for a companion than an old one. I cannot help feeling pained for my poor Lad who in his last Letter made so much of a confession of his past pangs and strugles; I think with Yorick, that [\u201c]Love is not a misfortune from a persuasion that a Mans Heart is ever the better for it\u201d\n          I must bid you adieu. My paper warns me to close, and to assure you of the Sincerest attachment / of Your", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0106", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 7 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia March 7. 1796\n          I have made the necessary Inquiry concerning Seeds And have found the Price so extravagant that I have concluded it imprudent to purchase any for Captn Beal, Dr Welsh Mr Dexter Dr Tufts or\nmyself. And I desire you to purchase or request Dr Tufts to purchase for me one hundred and twenty Pounds of Clover Seed. The Second Crop of Clover, from which alone they thresh the Seeds in Pensilvania, fell short the last Season in Such a manner, that there is little at Market and none under a Price so exorbitant that it would be folly to purchase it\u2014from 20 to 24 dollars a Bushell of about 60 pound Weight. The Traders have written to New England, and a great deal of trash will be imported here from thence: but We may as well purchase at home, as purchase our own seeds here and send them home.\n          My Health has been better this Winter than in any one since I had the Fever and Ague. This Happiness I attribute to the free Use of my Horse, the last Summer. But I begin to feel the Want of Exercise, and to fear that the Spring will incommode me. A dreary Prospect of three months more to be wasted here, in doing little or nothing, vexes me sore, but what cannot be cur\u2019d must be endur\u2019d.\n          I Sometimes think that I am labouring in vain and Spending my Life for nought, in a fruitless Endeavour to preserve a Union that being detested on both Sides cannot long last. But I shall persevere, as long as I can to do all I can to preserve a Compact which is useful and might be more so, if the Pride of Aristocracy, and its Malice against all Superiority did not Stand in its own Light as it always did and always will. Bodies of Gentlemen Act with as little Union and as little Wisdom as Bodies of Ladies or Bodies of Simplemen or Bodies of Mob. The Spark, whether it be in the flint or the Steel, never comes out but by Collision. indeed a Spark is a drop or Particle of melted, red hot iron. The Spark is in the Iron then but it can be Striken out only by the blows of the flynt. Let the Wisdom then be in the Gentlemen if you will\u2014it will never fly out\u2014it will never give light till it be Smitten by the flint, or the Mass. But why do I write Pedantical Lectures to you? because I have nothing else to say.\n          So farewell", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0107", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 9 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia March 9. 1796\n          I recd on Monday your two favours of 28. Feb. I am very glad you employed Pratt to cutt the Timber, for it is high time I had a Barn to shelter my Hay that the Cattle may not complain of it so much, as\nthey do this Year, with Justice. I shall build only the shell this Year\u2014Raise the Barn & Board & shingle it.\n          The limed Manure upon the Hill I mean to have Spread upon the Grass Ground where it lies.\n          I join Copland in his Request that the Thatch Bank may be let; to either French or Burrell.\n          Priestley preaches once on a Sunday to a crouded Congregation, on the Evidences of Religion and is much Admired.\n          I sent your Message to Mrs Green\n          Alass! Poor John! But his Father and his Mother too know what it is, to be cooped up in Taverns Waiting for Winds\u2014 Aye and the Boy too has had more Experience of it than a Million of old Men. Many a Week and many a Month as he been detained with me waiting for Winds & Waves & ships both political and Physical.\u2014 He has resources within to amuse and employ him.\n          I dont believe All the Points of Rochefaucaults Thought. Ambition and Love live together very well. a Man may be mad with both at once. Witness C\u00e6sar & Anthony with Cleopatra & many others.\n          If the Young Man really loves, I will not thwart him\u2014 I have been anxious lest my sons by early and indiscreet connections should embarrass themselves and Companions in Poverty Distress & Misery from which it would not be in my Power to relieve them. I have Seen Instances enough to Ruin from early Marriage. Azariah Faxon & sam Quincy were two among many.\n          The Birth Day has been celebrated very sufficiently. I have much doubt of the Propriety of these Celebrations. In Countries where Birth is respected and where Authority goes with it, there is congruity enough in such Feasts: But in Elective Governments the Question is more doubtful. Probably the Practice will not be continued after another Year.\n          In the Case you Suppose, Blair McClenican Swears with great Oaths before Giles and all of them that he will vote for no Jeffersons & no other Man, but his old Friend of 1775. But there is no Certainty of any Change more than there has been for six months. Every Body takes it for granted there will be\u2014 But my Opinion is it will kill the Resigner.\u2014\n          Affectionately", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0109", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 11 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia March 11. 1796\n          Why! this is very clever\u2014 Every Monday and every Thursday brings me regularly a Letter, which Softens the T\u00e6dium Vit\u00e6 The Ennui of Life, in this Wrangling disputacious Metropolis.\n          So! We are to have a Quincy Academy! With all my Heart\u2014I am willing to pay my Quota of the Expence. But Something more than a School House will be wanting for so desirable a Purpose.\n          Oh that I had a Bosom to lean my Head upon! But how dare you hint or Lisp a Word about Sixty Years of Age If I were near, I would soon convince you that I am not above forty.\u2014 I allow in full, all your Claim to Merit Sufferings and Sacrifices, and if it would not be ridiculed would set up mine as high, and vow that no Man in America not even W. has Suffered half so much, or done more. Thus you and I have equal Vanity and Vanity is as good a Pretension as any that prevails. Why says Johnson should not Truth be believed by a Man concerning himself, since the Mind loves truth. He would call it conscious Dignity and self Esteem. Candid Minds who admit the Truth will make the Excuse. But greater Numbers will deny the Truth and make it not only a folly but a Crime\u2014 therefore Let Us hold our Tongues.\n          The House of Representatives have fastened on the British Treaty with all their Teeth and all their Nails. Individuals will bite like savages, and tear like Lions. There will be a desperate Effort of a Party which seems to think and perhaps justly that their Power depends entirely on the Destruction of that Instrument.\n          The Business of the Country in many important Departments stands still and suffers for Want of attention, which is all Absorbed by the Debates on the Treaty and will continue to be so for several Weeks. Many Persons are very anxious, and forebode a Majority unfavourable, and the most pernicious and destructive Results. I cannot yet believe that they will be so desperate and unreasonable. If they should be, what is to come next I know not. it will be then evident that this Constitution cannot Stand.\n          I pray you to shew no Mercy to the Canker Worm. Engage another hand as soon as you please.\n          I hope you will take good Care of your Health, for the sake of your Husband your Children, your other Friends and I will add of your Country. there\u2019s Gallantry for you. As to the Country however, if the H. of R.s condemn the Treaty and defeat its operation, I see nothing but a Dissolution of Government and immediate War. President senate and House all dissolve, and an old Congress revives Debts are all cancelled Paper Money issued and forced into Circulation by the Bayonette and in short Heaven and Earth set at Defyance. I envy the tranquil Lives of a Cranch & a Tufts and an Unkle Norton\u2014yet I am merry enough. \u201cIse never lays any Thing to heart\u201d Said my Whistleing shoe make in Hanover street with 9 Children in one Room.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0110", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 12 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            my Dearest Friend\n          Yours of Febry 27. March 1st came to hand on Thursday. I regreet that Congress are like to Sit so long, for tho my Neighbours are Some of them pleasd to flatter My Vanity, by asscribing to me a knowledge of Farming. I have really very little pretentions to their enconiums. I find myself embarresed in the terms of leasing the Farms. I have endeavourd to abide as near as I could by Your\ndirections. With Burrel I meet with no difficulty, except a trial to get Team work. French appears a fair open honorable Man. he had brought with him a Brother in Law, a mr Bowditch of who I had a good Character. I enterd into the terms with them, and after adjusting some matters supposed we were quite agreed, when all at once French appears very much disconcerted, and Mortified, and tells me that Bowditch was discouraged from comeing on & had given up the Idea, that if he was capable of going through the whole by himself he would, but the expence of hireing help would take away all his Profits, but if I would not engage it for a few Days he would see if he could find some other partner. at the Time Sit, he came and brought an other Brother in Law, a Mr Vinton. I know you will not like the Name any more than I did. I told Mr French, that altho I knew his Father, mr Vinton was a stranger to me, but I trusted for his own Sake he would not take with him any person of whose honour and honesty he was not well satisfied with, and that I should consider him as the Principle. I have since Seen and conversed with them Several Times. I cannot say that I like vinton as well as I do French, which make Me wish more that you were here to judge for yourself. they are not willing to have any thing to Do with the bogg Meddow. I do not recollect that you left any direction respecting that. they will not be obliged to take the medow bought of Penniman. they do not like to be restricted with regard to the Team unless you will engage to employ it at all times when they can use it. I shall bind them to this, to work for you when ever call\u2019d upon, and for no other without your consent. the Steers which are to be broken they look upon as a trouble, particularly those which have neither been yoked or tied up. Deacon French says he has given the use of a pr. this Winter to get them broke\u2014\n          I have consented that they bring on a Horse. when I considerd that we should both want the Farm Horse at the same time, that one of ours would be useless this Summer, I thought you would have none at times for yourself and that I had better consent to their bringing one, than that you Should have to purchase. I shall do the best I can, but I know and fear you will not be satisfied;\n          our people at both places make bitter complaints of their Hay and say the cattle will not eat it I must purchase immediatly for the Horses.\n          You sit up your carriage when you enterd into office. I shall make no difficulty at laying it Down when you become a private citizen. altho I see My Neighbours on both sides enjoying them, it would be\nno enjoyment to me to continue an expence that I could not afford. I should wish\n            \u201cTo rise with Dignity, and fall with ease\u201d\n          and as I never placed my happiness in Equipage, I do not expect to have it greatly diminished by the want of it, any more than Col Hamilton whose ambition I dare say is not in the least diminished by the Sacrifice.\n          I inclosed you in my last a Letter from Thomas. I have just closed Letters to him by a vessel going to Amsterdam. I wrote to the Minister last week.\n          are we to expect any heat as the Spring approaches? I am glad the Treaties are all met together. they may serve to keep each other in countanance\n          adieu / Yours as ever\n            Abigail Adams\u2014", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0112", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 15 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia March 15. 1796\n          Your delicious Letter of the 5th. came to my hand Yesterday. Your beautiful and pathetic Reflections on the Match in our Presidential Family are such as I expected. It is to me, one of the most delightful Ideas that is treasured in my Mind, that my Children have no Brothers nor sisters of the half or quarter Blood. one such Consciousness would poison all the Happiness of my Life.\u2014\n\u201cRemembered Follies, Sting,\u201d and none could pierce my heart with such corrosive & deleterious Poison as this.\n          I am So disgusted with this kind of Life that I am Sometimes disposed to take rash Resolutions that I never will live another Winter out of my family. Pray what is become of your new Charriot? Is it possible to afford to have it built?\n          Is it not vexatious? have We not plagues enough? Must our own Friends conspire to torment Us? Is Imprudence and Turbulence so entailed upon Us, that Members of the wisest Bodies must conspire with their own Ennemies? Here is a Folly complained of in the House by Baldwin. The Georgia Speculation is in a fair Way to rid the World for what I know of some of the Hairbrains\u2014 But why should wise honest & independent Men run wild.?\n          Jackson has had a Rencontre, and Gun has sought one. The Bostonians have been the Dupes.\n          Sobrius esto. Be Sober. Be calm, Oh my heart and let your Temperance and moderation be known to all Men. But it requires a great command of ones Passions to be Serene amidst Such Indiscretions and Irregularties of wise Men when We have so much Extravagance of the Unwise and so much Malice of the wicked to contend with at the Same time.\n          I believe I told you that Thomas was become quite a Negotiator at the Hague, and his Brother in London. The latter however will return, I suppose to Holland upon the Return of Mr Pinckney to England.\n          Mr Gore and Mr short I conjecture will be appointed Commissioners to estimate depredations & Damages and perhaps J. Q. A may be named one of the two who are to be by Lot converted into a 3d. But all this must be Secret. I am trying your Capacity to keep secrets, you see.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0113", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 19 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia March 19. 1796\n          We have a Turn of Weather as cold as any We have had through the whole Winter. The Violence of the North West Wind which has thrown down Chimneys and blown off Roofs in this City, We suppose has prevented the Eastern Mail from crossing the North River and deprived me of my Thursdays Letter as yet. I hope it will come to day.\n          A Thousand and one Speeches have been made in the H. of Reps. upon the Motion for petitioning the P. for Papers. Twenty complete Demonstrations have been made of the Constitutionality of it, and twenty more of its Unconstitutionality. Ten of its Expediency and as many of its Inexpediency, five of its Utility and the same number of its Inutility. After all they will ask and receive\u2014and then lash and maul a while and then do the needful. I dined on the 17th with the friendly sons of st. Patrick and to day I dine with Rush. Judge Cushing departs this Morning and Mrs Cushing will call upon you. Elsworth embarks in a day or two for S. C. & Georgia. We have a Party Business from Kentucky: a Strange Complaint as Mr Marshall\u2014which oblige is Us to sit to day a saturday I regret this, because it is too exhausting to me to sit so constantly. My Task is pretty severe, especially in cold Weather.\u2014\n          This Wind will delay Intelligence from Europe for ten days or a fortnight.\n          Liancourt is going with Elsworth and Tallerand talks of embarking for Hambourgh.\n          Having no Horse and reading more & walking less than Usual I am solicitous about my health.\u2014\n          The Birds in Numbers and Vanity began to sing and the grass to grow green before this last Gripe of Queen Mab. The poor Birds have hard times now.\u2014\n          The two Miss Daltons have been here all Winter. I delivered Your Message to Mrs Green & General Wayne.\n          I cannot see a ray of Hope, before June\u2014 If the House should be frenzical We must sit till next March and leave it to the People to decide by choosing a new President senate & House, who will harmoniously go all lengths, call George a Tyrant to his face the English Nation Pyrates break the Treaty enter into an alliance offensive with France & go to War, with spirit, Consistency & Dignity.\n          But I believe the House will adopt the Language which says that the Just keep their Promisiss though they have made them to [this trust?] and that they must make the best of a bad bargain and come off thus as well as they can by abusing Jay President & senate and Treaty without pretending to annul it.\u2014\n          Hi! Ho! Oh Dear! I am most / tenderly", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0114", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 20 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            My Dearest Friend\n          I received Your kind favours of March 3. 5 7 & 9th by the Thursday post. we have as great a famine here of News as their is of Bread in Europe. the chief Topick of conversation is the Georgia Lands. their Present Legislature have displayd state Sovereignty in its fullest extent; our wise Men were never before so Bubbled. our Wealthyest citizens are taken in to a vast amount, Mr Russel Barrel Craggy, in short by what I hear, every Man of any considerable property far and near. What redress they can obtain, I know not, nor do I know sufficient of the Merrits or demerrits of the Subject to decide upon it. I hope however it will produce one good effect in stoping that Rage for speculation, which like an influenza has pervaded all ages and degrees of persons.\n          I yesterday received a Letter from our son in England of 24 Nov\u2019br by way N york. he foresaw his Letter would be opened, as it appeard by the total defaceing of the Initials of his Name, it had been. so he wrote no politicks of concequence. The whole Substance of European affairs amount only to this, [\u201c]That they are very Much exhausted, and very hungry. Peace is the great object of their wishes on all Sides.\u201d\n          The remainder of his Letters is taken up in relating to me the discovery lately made of some Manuscripts, being originals of the hand of Shakespear. amongst Several of trifling importance, there is a compleat fair coppy of King Lear, three or four Sheets, being part of an Hamlet, and an whole Tragedy heretofore unknown, intitled Vortigern & Rowena.\n          You know how passionately fond our Son has ever been of that great master of humane nature. he may truly be said to have inherited this from his parents. He observes that he had enough of the Catholic superstition about him to pay his Devotion to these\nvenerable relics. they were in possession of a private Gentleman by the Name of Ireland to whom he got introduced, and had an opportunity to see all, except the new play, which was purchased by the manager of Drurry lane Theater, Mr Sheridan for five hundred pounds, and is to appear upon that Stage the present Season. mr Ireland does not hessitate to affirm that the Vortigern will be rank\u2019d among the very best plays of the Author. among the loose papers, are a short Letter from Queen Elizabeth, commanding him to play before her on a certain Day, a Coppy of a Letter from him to Lord Southampton and his answer, a Deed from him or rather a will to a Man by the Name of Ireland, giving him several of his plays and a Sum of Money, in consideration of his having saved his Life from Drowing in the Thames, a Love Letter to Anna Hatherrewaye, with a lock of Hair, together with some fugitive peices, and several designs Drawn with a pen. all these are to make their appearence within a few Days. You my Dear Mother have long known My partiality for the Swan of Avon, and will not be surprizd at the interest I take in all his productions.\n          I may as well quit here or go on to transcribe his whole Letter, not a syllable of which is uninteresting. he complains of the craveing void of solitude even in the city of London. I can easily enter into his sensations, and most readily believe him. Solitude is every where, when you feel not any particular interest in any one & no one has an interest in you. \u201cI left he says, my Brother at the Hague, and I feel very sensibly the want of his company. while I had it, I could not consider myself as seperated from every object of my attachment.\u201d\n          Poor fellow I know he feels like a banishd Man, condemnd in foreign climes to Roam. he will feel mortifid too, if he should fail in the object of his embassy.\n          I both rejoicd and mournd at the Appointment of Mr Elsworth as chief Justice, but what the Senate lose, the Bench will acquire. I rejoice that they have obtaind a Man of a fair Fame distinguishd abilities and integrity. Ceasars wife ought not to be suspected. this will apply equally to that office.\n          We have had this week the most voilent snow storm which we have experienced for these two years when I thought spring was opening, as the Singing of Birds was come a heavy Equinoxial gale came on accompanied by rain frost and then Snow & cold. for 48 hours, it was very voilent I had begun tarring the Trees, and Copeland was going to plow the Hill. we are all aback, but the remainder\nof the Timber will be got home by tomorrow night. I must buy Hay as I wrote you but cannot get any under 5 pounds pr Ton. the snow prevented my having a load this week. the Dr tells me he could have bought Seed at a shilling Some time ago, but he finds it has risen very large orders having been received for the exportation of it. as soon as you conveniently can I should be glad you would Send me a post Note. the collector is very earnest to get his Rates the beginning of April. I Suppose the School house cannot go on there are so many Town orders that they cannot get any money into the treasury. in the Spring there are allways new arrangments to make, and we have not a whole Tool upon the place neither Spade Shovel hoe Sythe or any other thing but an ax\n          I hope We shall have no Sampsons this year.\n          I wish you would write Me of what Dimensions you mean to have the Barn & whether you would not make an L. of it. some advise to that as G. Gills Barn was if you recollect. they say it make a better yard. I shall make inquirys to find how I can get the Frame hued.\n          Yours as ever\n            Mrs Brislers Brother Baxter lost a Boy of 2 years old the week after his wife with the Throat Distemper which proves as mortal here as the yellow fever. we had 5 Deaths in a week.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0116", "content": "Title: Charles Adams to John Adams, 21 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, Charles\nTo: Adams, John\n          I am clearly of opinion with you that we stand in need of some magic equally powerful as the Lyre of Amphion to quell the rage of the political elements and yet I have my doubts whether the power of music or eloquence could instil sentiments of Justice or integrity into the minds of some of our Legislators. My dictionaire Historique tells me that Amphion was the son of Jupiter and Antiope that he played with such grace that the rocks followed him. that at the sound of his instrument the stones ranged themselves in perfect order and formed the walls of Thebes. Those who wish to give a reasonable interpretation to the absurdities of Paganism suppose he gained every heart by the power of his eloquence We have lately had occasion for this wonderful instrument to keep the people from revolting against themselves. We have seen a striking example of the rage to imitate Frenchmen We have been witnesses to an insult offered To our house of Assembly as gross as a Parisian mob could have given. I do not like these beginnings. It is true The Assembly\nacted with some spirit on the occasion but such examp[les] are too catching and I know of no puni[shment] too severe for such conduct towards a legislat[ive] assembly.\n          Mrs Adams and myself are well We keep ourselves very much at home as prudent people in our circumstances ought to do She is a good prudent affectionate wife. Mrs Smith and her family have been very much distressed. Mr de St Hilaire has turned out to be as errant a Chevalier D\u2019industrie as France ever produced and after swindling as many people as he possibly could and his greatest benefactor the most he attempted to run off but was taken by some of his Creditors at Poughkeepsie and confined in jail Amen. Such is the imprudence and folly of trusting and being the dupes to the acts and flattery of Strangers. I have known the vilain from the fourth day after his marriage but had I had the Lyre of Amphion I could not have persuaded that family that he was capable of a meaness.\n          with sincere affection I am y[our] / son\n            Chas Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0117", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 24 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, Thomas Boylston\n            My Dear Brother.\n          Mr: Clagett has this moment delivered me your favour of the 29th: ulto: and informs me that he goes again for Holland to-morrow morning. I have therefore only time to tell you that I am still waiting for that permission to return which I have been more than two months in hourly expectation of receiving. My detention here is doubly mortifying from the consideration that as my presence is wanted at the Hague; it is totally without any object here; and accordingly I have been for some time past as idle as a Prince.\u2014 This situation you will readily judge does not entirely suit my reason or my sense of right; but I derive one source of consolation from it: the relaxation and exemption from continual cares, together with much time spent in exercise, and the charms of a most attractive Society have produced an essential improvement of my health which I think is better than it has been at any time since I have been in Europe: so that I flatter myself with the hope that I shall be better prepared for future exertion by my present repose from it.\n          I had apprehended from your former letter that your rheumatic attack was more serious than you mentioned, and was extremely anxious to hear from you again. Although your letter confirms my fears it has partly relieved me by the assurance that you had nearly recovered.\n          I sent you about ten days ago the box of articles and the breeches which you had previously ordered. I now enclose you a few newspapers\n          My letters from Boston are as late as January 26. there are accounts here as late as Feby: 20. Our friends in general were well, and in pretty good Spirits. Political affairs had assumed a calmer and more rational aspect. Randolph by publishing what he calls a vindication of his resignation has heaped coals of fire upon his own head.\n          Crafts, Frazier and Gardner are all gone. The former to Charleston the two latter to Boston. There are yet a number of Americans here.\n          No news. The price of wheat is falling, and John is like to get off without absolutely starving this time.\n          Your affectionate brother", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0118", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 25 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            My Dearest Friend\n          I was sadly dissapointed to Day when James returnd from the Post office without one Single Letter the Newspapers to the 14th but not a Line. Post office or Post or Roads share the blame; I am more unfortunate than you when dissapointed, for you have two chances in a week, but I must wait untill Thursday returns before I can get any Letters, tho Saturdays post should bring them. I see by the Papers the old Leven at work The President knows what is Right, and they will not get any thing else from him. it is a snare to entangle him if they can. he will not be taken by surprize for he must have foreseen this.\n          The latest intelligence from France which is 26 of Jan\u2019ry wears some appearence of Peace, and the British King has equal need of Peace. the cessation of Arms between the French and Austerians has the same appearence. I hope at a time when other Powers are thirsting after quiet and repose, We shall not be driven into Hostilities by the rash and firery Tember of our Jacobines and that at a Period when they appeard to be divested of their Power, tho not of their inclination to hurt.\n          The Weather has been very unpropitious for any kind of Buisness for these 8 Days past the Snow came in abundance. it Drifted into Banks, and for two Years past we have not had so much at once. we have tar\u2019d but have not met with any canker worms. this Day the leases have been compleated and Sign\u2019d Braintree Farm is leased to Burrell Quincy to French and Vinton and on fryday they take possession. I have setled with Joy & payd him and his wife their last quarters wages, about half of which remaind Due to them upon our Settlement. I have purchased two loads of hay. Cleopatra will have an increase. I am much affraid I shall be obliged to purchase what I do not remember we ever Did a Load or two of salt Hay; whilst we\nhave many Tons of Salt, and fresh so Rotten, that the cattle will not touch it, our people Say it was not sufficiently Made and that it was stackd Wet. I Scold and insist upon their feeding with it, but the concequence will be that they will consume all the English. we have Six calves already. When My new Tennants come, I shall hear what they Say. the Sheep have eat near all the clover Hay at the little Barn. Copeland will have enough here but he has not any to part with, he says. we have had here our four Horses an equal number of oxen & half the Young stock beside the Sheep. Clover Seed may be had at 20 cents pr pound which is the lowest. the Dr has been on the lookout ever since you wrote me, but you was not early enough with your intelligence Mr Bracket will spair a hundred & 20 weight at that price. the Dr advises me to secure it as, it will be higher immediatly\n          I Shall be obliged to borrow of the Dr 30 pounds till I receive some from you. the collectors Dun me as from the first of March they are obliged to pay interest upon a part of what is not collected. I pay\u2019d 50 Dollors the beginning of March for mr Wibird.\n          adieu I am as ever most / affectionatly Your\n            Abigail Adams\u2014", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0119", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 25 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia March 25. 1796\n          on Wednesday I dined with Mr Russell the Friend of Dr Priestley and while We were at Table, in came large Packets of Letters and Newspapers from England. The Ladies at Table had Letters from their friends and the Sc\u00e6ne was so lively so much like what I had\noften felt that it put me into very good humour. The News was what you will see in Fennos Paper.\n          Yesterday I dined at the Presidents with Ministers of State and their Ladies foreign and Domestic. After dinner the Gentlemen drew off after the Ladies and left me alone with the President in close Conversation. He detained me there till Nine o Clock and was never more frank and open upon Politicks. I find his Opinions and sentiments are more exactly like mine than I ever knew before, respecting England and France and our American Parties. He gave me Intimations enough that his Reign would be very short. He repeated it three times at least, that this and that was of no Consequence to him personally, as he had but a very litle while to Stay in his present situation. This must be a confidential secret. I have hinted it to no one here.\n          The P. told me he had that day recd three or four Letters from his new Minister in London, one of them as late as 29 of December. Mr Pickering informs me, that Mr Adams modestly declined a Presentation at Court but it was insisted on by Lord Grenville: and accordingly he was presented to the King and I think the Queen and made his Harrangues and recd his answers. By the Papers I find that Mr Pinkney appeared at Court on the 28th. of January: after which I presume Mr Adams had nothing to do but return to Holland.\n          The Appearances of Peace are as yet but faint.\n          The H. of R.s have applied for Papers and the P. has their Request under Consideration. He is not at all pleased with this. a Motion is now before the H. made by Mr Harper that it be resolved that Provision be made to carry into Execution all the Treaties yet published. How long this will be debated I know not. There is danger that the Delay on our Part will occasion delays on the Part of Britain. but I hope not. Three of our Reps, Lyman Dearborne and Varnum voted against all New England except one I believe in Vermont. The Loss of Mr Ames and Mr Dexter has been much lamented. Varnum and Lyman and Dearborne are as inveterate as Giles, by all that I hear.\n          I have not yet seen my sons public Letters.\n          There is such Rancour of Party that the Prospect of a Change in Administration quite cures me of all Desire to have a share in it.\u2014 Repose and Poverty I say.\u2014 Yet I am not intimidated. Renegadoes and Adventurers from foreign Countries acquire such an influence among the People although there is no Attachment in their Nature\nto Us or our Country and there is every Reason to suspect the worst Influence over them: and sensible People are so fearful of provoking their Wrath and Impudence by exposing them that it is really disgusting to enter on any public stage. The People are so abused and deceived And there is so little Care or Pains taken to undeceive & disabuse them that the Consequences must be very disagreable.\n          I am with undiminished Attach / ment your Affectionate", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0122", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 29 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia March 29. 1796\n          On Monday I recd your favour of the 20th Nothing will damp the Rage for Speculation but a Peace which may break a few hundreds or thousands of speculators.\n          The Georgia Business is Impudence of uncommon hardness. The Rage of Party is there unrestrained by Policy or Delicacy.\n          Our sons Account of shakespears Relicks Fenno has printed without Names.\n          He must early learn to bear Mortifications. He will never have more to bear than his Father has borne. He is in a state of honourable Banishment. I wish he would come home, with leave, and have Courage enough to set down again in his office and go before Justices of the Peace & Quarter sessions in Defence of the Rights of Man, after marrying his Girl if she is still disengaged if he likes it.\u2014 Upon the whole however I think he had better stay another Year, which will make great Changes in this as well as other Countries.\n          The Appointment of the C. J. was a wise Measure.\u2014 My Mind is quite at ease on that subject\u2014\n          Buy as much Hay as you please\u2014 I was afraid you would be obliged to give more than five Pounds a load.\n          The Barn is to be forty five feet long or rather exactly of the Dimensions of my Fathers\u2014 I think it must be in a line with that\u2014if you make an Ell you cutt off all the Prospect. I shall only raise board & shingle it this year\u2014merely for a shelter to the Hay.\n          I send you a Post Note for 600 which I wish you to acknowledge by the first opportunity. My Expences are so enormous that I can send no more.\n          The House consume all their Time upon Party Politicks and all the Great Business of the Nation is suspended.\n          Mr Henry of Maryland exclaimed to me to day with great Pathos\u2014\u201cPensilvania has passed a Law to appoint Electors by a general or state Ticket\u2014 The Point will lay with Pensilvania\u2014 they are a wrong and We shall be defeated.\u201d Bingham answered \u201cOh No We shall have every Man\u201d\u2014 I held my Tongue and understood not a Word they said.\n          Henry poor Man had not taken laudanum enough to raise his spirits to the Key.\u2014\n          The Heart is deceitful and I do believe as well as suspect that I know not mine: But I really and soberly feel as if I should be better pleased that Henry my sincere friend should be defeated than that he should tryumph.\u2014\n          Torment and Philadelphia are in one scale\u2014Quiet and Quincy in the other. that is all the Difference\u2014 I feel myself as fixed as fate. Our statesmen have Letters from John which I have not seen: but which please entertain and interest them. I am my dearest friend / poor or sick, great or small yours / everlastingly", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0124", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 1 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            my Dearest Friend\n          I yesterday received Yours of March 19 & 23d inclosing the Letter from our son, compareing Such events as have taken place in Europe, with the Spirit, and Temper of the Parties in America, and the evident disposition of foreign Powers towards the united States. I believe our Son will prove to be possesst of the Spirit, calld Prophesy which it has been said, was the property of his Father. in other Words, I believe from the observation which have occurd to me, that he Will be found to have made a just estimate of men and measures. I observe his prudent caution in not nameing those of his Countrymen who differ from him in opinion, but from Your reflection I presume it must be M. if not P. as to Sieyes I have long had my eye upon him as the Cromwell of France. How little do our Countrymen understand humane Nature, & what Superlative Ignorance Do they discover of History, and of the politicks of Nations, when they talk of a Republicks having no Secreets. it is really a pitty Such Ignoramuses should be Sent into a Legislative assembly. as\nthere are always two sides to a question, I hope light will brake out in full Day upon the combattants, and that Right, and justice will be established.\n          We May Soon expect to hear from abroad. Scott was to Sail in Feb\u2019ry. I Suppose I must not ask how the 12 article is like to be Modified? or whether Success is probable?\n          I so frequently want advise, respecting our Home affairs that I wish you was here to Make Some of the arrangements, or that I had been more particular in attending to your plans. some of them must vary, oweing to the Letting the Farms. there are three Yoke of Young steers. two of them are quiet to the yoke, but one pr & the likelyest are wild never even been handled Dr Tufts wants a Yoke would you part with them? two more Yoke are comeing on to be made use of an other Year. is your plan to fat two Yoke this Year? I hope I shall be able to go on with some buisness which I would undertake, if I was sure I should have it Done right. I mean the Wall talkd of upon the Hill. I am weak very weak now. as soon as you enable me to be vallient I shall go on with spirit. I should live a short life upon credit.\n          Copland Says his time is out to Day for which he engaged to you; I say not till the 25th. Whether I shall hire him again is uncertain as I hear from your Brother that he talks of very high wages. I saw Billings to Day. he was engaged to Make a peice of Stone wall for capt Beal which he thinks will take him three weeks. he then says he will come if we can agree, but I could not find out what he intended to have. Your Brother Says our lands must lye without cultivation for Laboures are for having all the value of produe and money beside; I must keep Copeland for the present Month if he will stay. I shall have some talk with him in the course of the Week & see what his expectations are, but here are so few Labourers that we are obliged to give the highest price and not always for the first hands. shaw bears all the blame of Spoiling the Hay put into the Barns, by getting it in not Sufficiently Made\u2014\n          our Tennants are moving. the Day is Spring like and the Birds Sing. our Worthy Brother Cranch is laid up for this fortnight with his old Lung complaint, which will some Day prove too hard for him I hope he is getting better. Mother has got through the Month of March without being confined, and is comfortable.\n          Yours in Love and affection\n            Abigail Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0125", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 1 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia April 1. 1796\n          The Newspapers will inform you of our interminable Delays. The House have asked for Papers and the President has refused them, with Reasons and the House are about to record in their Journals their Reasons\u2014 meanwhile the Business is in suspence: and I have no clear Prospect when I shall go home.\n          It is the general opinion of those I converse with that after they have passed the Resolutions which they think will justify them to their Constituents, seven or Eight of the Majority will vote for the appropriations necessary to carry the Treaties into Execution.\n          Next Wednesday is assigned for the House to take the P.\u2019s Message into Consideration\u2014 two Massachusetts Members Leonard & Freeman are gone home and three are among the most inveterate of the Opposition Dearborne Varnum & Lyman. Our People are almost as inconsistent in returning Such Men as the Pensilvanians are in Returning Adventurers from Geneva, Britain & Ireland if the Constitution is to give Way under these contending Parties We shall see it before long. If the House persevere in refusing to vote the appropriations We shall sit here till next March for what I know and wait for the People, to determine the Question for Us. One good Effect of a persevering Opposition in the House would be that We should preserve the President for another four Years: for I presume He will have sufficient Spiriti to hold the Helm till he has steered the ship through this storm, unless the People should remove him which most certainly they will not.\n          I will Not sit here in summer in all Events\u2014 I would sooner resign my Office. I will leave Philadelphia by the Sixth or seventh of June\nat farthest. Other Gentlemen of the senate and House are frequently asking Leave of Absence: but my Attendance is perpetual and will if continued much longer disorder my Health, which hitherto has been very good. But I want my Horse my farm my long Wallks and more than all the Bosom of my friend\u2014\n          Poor Lear has lost his second Wife.\u2014\n          I want to talk Politicks with my Brother and to know how his Patriotic Pulse beat in these times.\n          Next Monday is your Election when I suppose there will be a Stir. Many Letters express a clear opinion that there will be a Change. This would be the strongest Proof of F\u0153deralism which Mass has ever given; because I suppose it will be from f\u0153deral Principles & Motives. But I expect no such Thing. I could fill a sheet with my Reasons but they would not be new to you.\n          The Weather is very pleasant but rather dry\u2014 I suppose you have Scarcely got rid of your snow.\n          I am anxious to hear whether the Throat Distemper has abated in Quincy\u2014 I thought the Physicians had become Masters of that Complaint. Duty to my Mother and / Love & Compts where due from your / ever Affectionate", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0126", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 4 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            my Dearest Friend\n          I see by the papers brought by last nights Mail that the Question on Livingstones Motion was carried by a great Magority. this May truly be calld a scramble after power. what is to come next? dare they touch the Treaty with unhallowd Hands? Giles seems all at once to have fallen in Love with Checks, and rings as many changes with them, as has been asscribed to the Author of the Defence. I have read his flimsy speach repleat with Sophistry, calculated to catch flies, but not a toil for Lions. I do not recollect being more pleasd with any speach than mr Bucks Simple, Manly, and convincing, \u201cplain Truth Dear Murry, needs no flowers of speach\u201d it is curious to see these Geniuss quoting as an Authority a Nation & Government, which on other occasions & from the opposite side, they would repobate in the severest terms. but what cannot Party Spirit effect. it can see single & Double, Proteus like assume all shapes, and forms. This said mr Giles, who appears to have some lose Ideas borrowd from a work which I presume he never studied, or he might have learnt from it, a true picture of himself and Party, and that the Love of power, like the Love of fame, how ever disguised by art, Glows more or less, and burns in every Heart that this tendency can never be eradicated, but ought to be so gaurded as not to prevail over the Laws, and in the Words of the Defence, [\u201c]putting the Executive power into the Hands of the people is bribing them to their own destruction. putting it into the Hands of their Representitives is Still worse as it gives more opportunity to conceal the Knavery\u201d\n          Tomorrow is our Election Day, and after scolding and abuseing the Old Man some, their Hearts relent towards him, and I am very certain from what I have read and what I have heard, all of which will serve rather than injure his cause, he will again be Reelected and I belive by a large proportion of the state. in the first place he lives in the Town of Boston. that has its Weight with their Pride and Ambition in the next place, they recollect his former Services his Age, and his Virtues. those take hold of their gratitude, and they know not how to bring his grey Hairs with sorrow to the Grave. there they have some merrit. they know there is not any other Man held up sufficiently popular to unite the people. these are the considerations of the Patriots. the Antis Support him, because they\nthink him a spoke in their Wheel. I own for Myself, whilst I pitty his infirmities, I should have been sorry to have had him dropt. there will be many Votes for sumner, and his Election will not be so full as the last year.\n          Tell mr Cabot that Mrs Cabot call\u2019d on me on her return from Hingham, that she was well and in good spirits. We compared Notes and mournd the absence of our Mates, more particularly as the Spring approaches, that I sent My Love to him by her, and she sent her Respects to you, which means just the same thing.\n          I have had a confinement for several Days Something of the prevailing Lung complaint. I hope it will prove Slight, and that I shall be out again soon. our cold March east Winds have been the cause of it. You will escape their voilence I hope.\n          present me affectionately to all Friends / Your\n            P s Mr Cranch is rather better.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0127", "content": "Title: John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 5 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n            Philadelphia April 5. 1796\n          I have this morning received your favours of Jan. 7 and February the first with the Newspapers for which I thank you\u2014 I recd some days ago a Letter with the Review and some other Papers. I thank you for all these Marks of your kind Attention. a few Lines from you\nare always acceptable as they are Information of your Health and Situation, but your long Letters are fraught with such Information and Such Wisdom as always afords me the highest Satisfaction. I have read your Public Dispatches and I know they have given great Satisfaction both to The Minister & President.\n          The House of Representatives have been making Difficulties about The Treaty: But they will probably in a few days do what is necessary to be done by them. I am not sorry that you are not a favourite at Court or with the People of England. I would never owe them Any Obligation and I hope my Children never will because I know that a cordial Kindness & Friendship will never exist in their Bosoms towards my our Country. Their Jealousy and Envy will eternally generate Hatred. Their Generals Admirals and Governers have no more discretion than peevish Boys in their Conversation concerning this Country and in their Behaviour towards our Citizens. I will never fail to do them Justice: but I know them full well.\n          Dont suffer their little Contemptible Passions and sordid Insolence to hurt your feelings.\n          our Family are all Well. I am my Dear son, with as much friendly Esteem and solid / Confidence as parental affection your / Father\n            John Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0128", "content": "Title: John Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 7 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Thomas Boylston\n            Philadelphia April 7. 1796\n          It is a long time Since I have recd a Letter from you and it is too long Since I have written to you.\n          I have read your Dispatches as Charg\u00e9 d\u2019affaires at the Hague with much Satisfaction: But I find the Secretary of the Treasury is anxious to hear from You on the subject of Affairs in Holland which have more immediate Relation to his Office.\n          The House of Representatives of U.S. are engaged in Disputes about their Powers and Authorities which have already consumed\nmuch time: but I hope they will now come to a Conclusion and resolve to do what depends upon them to carry the Treaty into Execution.\n          You have not lately given to me or your Mother any Intimation of your designs: whether you intend to remain in Europe or to return to America. Your Prospects in Europe are unknown to me: and while I should be very happy in your Company here I would not advise you to any Course against your Interest. if you see any Advantage in remaining where you are another that is a third year, greater than any to be expected from returning home I would not interfere in your Pursuits. Perhaps something may turn up in Europe or America in the Course of a few Months to make your Path more easy to see It is possible your Brother may be removed to some other situation, and in that Case you will of Course either be placed in his stead at the Hague or remain there as Charge Des Affairs or return home.\n          There may be some Changes in America which may make it proper for me to advise you before the End of another year to return home.\n          In America there are Opportunities opening constantly which a young Lawyer may take Advantage of provided he is attentive and industrious as I doubt not you are and would be.\n          Pray has \u201cThe Defence\u201d ever been translated into Dutch or German? if it has send me a Copy\u2014 I wish too you would send me one Copy of The French Translation of it.\u2014\n          The Dutch are trying over again after the French the Experiment of a Government of a single assembly. Nedham as great a Changling as he was, and as great a Villain, has had more honour done to his weak system than Sir Thomas More, Mr Harrington or even Plato.\u2014 It has cost many hundreds of thousands of Lives to cure France of their Idolatry to it. And I am afraid my good Friends the Dutch will have reason too to repent of it. Oh Franklin! Thy Rods will not in a thousand Years save half the Number of Lives that has been destroyed already in France by their inconsiderate Admiration of thy Attachment to Marchmont Nedhams Legislation.\n          The Rascall Nedham leading Franklin Turgot Condorcet and Rochefoucault by the Nose, and the French Nation blindly following them and the Dutch Nation bringing up the Rear is to be so astonishing a Picture, that no Miracle could have made me believe it, if I had not lived to see it.\n          our Family and Friends are all well. Adieu my Dear son\u2014 Go on in\nthe Ways of well doing and may the Blessing of Heaven follow you\u2014 so prays your / affectionate Father\n            John Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0131", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 13 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia April 13. 1796\n          I dined on Monday at the Presidents with young La Fayette and his Preceptor, Tutor or Friend, whatever they call him, whose Name is Frestel. I asked Them with Mr Lear to breakfast with me this Morning and they agreed to come: but last Evening Mr Lear came with a Message from The President, to ask my Opinion whether it would be adviseable for the young Gentleman, in the present Circumstances of his Father and Mother and whole Family and considering his own tender Years, to accept Invitations and mingle in Society?\u2014 Whether it would not too much interrupt his studies? The Youth and his Friend had proposed these Questions to the P. and asked his Advice, and expressed their own opinion that Retirement would be more adviseable and more desirable.\n          I Agreed in opinion with the P. and his Guests and as I had been the first who had invited them, at the P\u2019s request agreed to excuse them from accepting my Invitation that they might have it to say as a general Apology that they had accepted none.\n          There is a Resemblance of Father & Mother in the young Man\u2014 He is said to be Studious and discreet. I hope he will live to become as respectable and a more fortunate Man than his father.\n          You must have known him at five or six Years of Age as well as his sister Anastasia who is now with her Parents.\n          The Majority of The H. of R. appear to be resolute to do Nothing. In fact they have done nothing and Mr Giles boasts that he has a Majority of ten determined to do nothing, concerning the Treaty with England. For my own Part, I see nothing better than a Crisis working up, which is to determine whether the Constitution is to be brought to its End this Year, or last a few longer.\n          Not The Tavern at Cowes not the Tavern at Harwich or at Helvoet not the Taverns at Nantes L\u2019orient and Breast nor the Calms, Storms and contrary Winds of a long Voyage at sea, nothing but a Journey through Spain from Ferrol to Fonterrabbia is more tedious than the Operations of our Government under this Constitution.\n          I have recd yours of April 1.\u2014 You must get labour as reasonably as\nyou can\u2014 But I almost wish We had let our Homestead upon shares as well as the others.\u2014 Another Year I will\u2014if I dont stay at home to take Care of it.\n          My love to Brother Cranch\u2014 It is not his old Ashtma that afflicts him I hope. The Secretary of the Treasury had Letters Yesterday from Thomas only upon Business. I am / affectionately", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0132", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 16 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia April 16. 1796\n          The Doctor may have the Steers if he wishes to have them.\n          The People of the United States are about to be Stirred up in every quarter of the Union. The H. of R. are determined to go all Lengths. The Merchants of this City have had the most numerous Meeting that has been known for a long time and unanimously voted to Petition that The Faith The Honour and the Interest of the Nation may be preserved. They have appointed Committees to correspond with the Merchants in all the seaports. I expect that the Citizens will also be called together in the State House Yard and it is said that the Gentlemen will turn out: but the Event will be doubtfull. The State Parties will all be agitated and Party Spirit will be carried to the highest Pitch. It must be a national Determination, and if the nation solemnly determines upon War and Confusion they ought not to charge it to the Government. These critical Situations are familiar to me and I always feel calmest in the midst of them. A few Outlandish Men in the H. have taken the lead and Madison Giles and Baldwin are humble followers.\n          If the Voice of the Nation should be finally & decidedly in favour of the Treaty, there will be a mortified Party so bitter rancorous and\ndesperate, fomented by foreign Influence, in Opposition that the Government will be very much embarrassed, and the public service very uncomfortable.\n          When I take a Walk out of Town and see the young clover beautifully Starting I long to see my own\u2014 Pray how fares it?\u2014\n          I have always thought it injudicious to make any Attempt against the Governor, knowing as I do the habitual Attachment to him, as well as the difficulty of uniting People in another. The Countenance he gives to a very profligate Party is very pernicious to the Public but he is stimulated to it in Part by the opposition to him, and he would not do less out of office. The Constitution of our Government is callculated to create, excite and Support perpetual Parties in the States, mixing & crossing alternately with Parties in the federal Govt.\u2014 It will be a perpetual Confusion of Parties.\n          I fear We do not deserve all the Blessings We have within our Reach and that our Country must be deformed with Divisions, Contests Dissentions and civil Wars as well as others.\n          As the People of Rome Scrambled for Power against their senate: as the People of Athens Scrambled for more Power than was reserved to them by the Laws of solon as the People of Carthage Scrambled for Power against their senate as the People of England Scrambled for Power against the K. & Lords and set up Oliver as the People of France Scrambled for Power against every Majority and set up Robespierre so the H. of R. of the U.S. will Scramble for Power against the P. & Senate. And the frequency of popular Elections will corrupt all before them. May God of his infinite Mercy grant that some Remedy may be found before it be too late in the good sense of this People.\n          Mr Cabot desires me \u201cto present you his most profound Respects not daring to send by an Husband any more affectionate Regards\u201d.\u2014\n          I will venture to present you with my most affectionate Regards my earnest Wishes and longing desires to see you.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0133", "content": "Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to John Quincy Adams, 17 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, Thomas Boylston\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n            My dear Brother.\n          Your favor of the 13 ult. came to hand the 31st: and that of the 24th: on the 3d: curt:  I have to thank you kindly for your prompt execution of my Several Commissions, all the articles of which have been received. It is certainly an erroneous idea, which some of our American friends have expressed, that I am to be charged with a Commission rather than you. I have been long convinced of the contrary, & hereby renounce all pretension to such preference.\n          I have not written to you since the 29 Feby, but I enclosed a letter from the F. M, under cover to Mr: Johnson on the 12 ulto; Four days after I was seized with a billious remittant fever, which incapacitated me for nearly as many weeks from every kind of business. This, in addition to my previous attack from the Rheumatism, brought me very near my latter end. But I have conquered my enemy, and am now upon the mending hand. It is by no means a pleasant task to fill my letters with lamentations, and until I had the power to inform you of my convalescence, I would suffer no one to acquaint you with my illness. My greatest anxiety is now, to bring up, if possible, the time which has been thus lost by my repeated calamities, but I am so far distanced that I almost despair of effecting it.\n          I rejoice at the account given me of yourself. More than two months elapsed without my hearing a word of, or from, you, and during the heigth of my last disorder, nothing could persuade me, that you were not dead. I date the commencement of my recovery from the moment your letter of the 13th: came to hand. As a proof that I have not been without companions in misery, the physician who attended me, visited between 80 & 100 patients pr day for three successive weeks. Such is the history of the Hague taken from the Drs logbook.\n          But tell me a little, who among this most attractive Society has most \u201ccharms\u201d for you? Am I, or am I not to participate? This seems to be the question here. Resolve me it, I pray you, for I am partly curious to know. Shall I order the old house upon the Fleeweel\nBurgwaal to be fitted up, or shall I take a better one upon the Voorhout? Make my best respects to the family in general, & to Miss \u2014\u2014\u2014 in particular.\n          I have letters from the Tr: Dept: as late as 17th. Feby giving notice of remittances to a very considerable amount & acknowledging the receipt of your letters to No 12. They contain nothing further.\n          You have doubtless heard the fate of your dispatches, which went by the William Captn: Stoddard for Baltimore;\u2014 Only one letter for the State & one for the Tr. Dep. went by that conveyance, which is rather fortunate considering circumstances. A Bermudas Judge is governed & governs by his own laws.\n          The National Assembly decreed some time since that a Medal should be struck in commemoration of the event of their Organization, and further that each of the Foreign Ministers who attended the ceremony should be presented with one of them. You know my situation in case the decree is enforced, and though I have no doubt as to my conduct upon such an occasion, I have some apprehension lest a wrong construction should be applied to it. Let me know your opinion upon this head if you please.\n          Our Brother Charles sent us the Vindication accompanied with Peter Porcupine\u2019s observations upon it. I send you the letter, which came with them. As I have forsaken my correspondents, they have retorted, and nobody appears to be concerned about me. I can\u2019t help it.\n          One more Commission & I have done. Bring or send me a good tooth brush & two boxes of powder, whereby you will add to the numerous obligations already conferred upon your affectionate Brother\n            Thomas B Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0136", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 19 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia April 19. 1796\n          The Sensations of Ap. 19. 1775 and those of this Morning have some Resemblance to each other. a Prospect of foreign War and civil War in conjunction is not very pleasant. We are a poor divided Nation in the midst of all our Prosperity. The H. of R. after debating 3 Weeks about asking for Papers are now beginning another Discussion which may last as long on the Merits and Demerits of the Treaty.\n          If the H. refuse to make The Appropriations it is difficult to see how We can avoid War and it is not easier to find out, how We can preserve this Government from Dissolution. We must however coolly and patiently Study and Search for the Means and Resources which may be left to avoid War and support Government.\n          Mr Swift and Mr Goodhue have Spoken ably in favour of the Treaty: and Mr Ncholas and Mr Giles Spoke more moderately against it than was expected.\n          I had no Letter from you Yesterday\u2014 Brisler Says the Mail goes now 3 times a Week on Tuesdays thursdays & saturdays. I shall endeavour to write by each, tho it may be but a Line of Remembrance. I hope your Indisposition was not a grave one: but the omission of a Letter Yesterday gave me Some fears.\n          I cannot deny the Right of the H. to ask for Papers, nor to express their Opinions upon the Merits of a Treaty. My Ideas are very high of the Rights and Powers of the H. of R.\u2014 These Powers may be abused and in this instance there is great danger that they will be. Such a Combination of Party Motives as Debts, Jacobism Antifederalism & French Influence, seldom occurs to overaw the Members and lead them into Party Violence. But the Faith and Honour of the Nation are pledged, and tho the H. cannot approve they ought to feel themselves bound.\n          Some Persons still think the H. will comply\u2014 But there is an Inveteracy and Obstinacy on this occasion as I scarcely ever Saw.\n          The Pride of Madison, Giles, Baldwin, ill broking the Superiour Powers of the Senate, Emulating the Dignity and Lustre of Members of that Body, ardently Struggling to Rival an Elsworth a King &c These are feelings that our Lawgivers in framing our Constitution did not advert to.\u2014 The Elections of the two Houses by such different Bodies as the People & their Legislators, will always leave this difficulty in full force. The Leading Members of the House, such as Madison & Baldwin should have been e\u2019er now senators.\n          But I must not Speculate. I must come to / something more pleasing, Assurances of the / perpetual Affection of", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0137", "content": "Title: John Adams to Charles Adams, 20 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Charles\n            Philadelphia April 20. 1796\n          I recd. yesterday your favour of the 18 by the Post Mr Van Persyn, whom you mention as the Bearer I have neither Seen nor heard of. My Conclusion is that he is not yet come on. I should be very glad to See him and receive the Letters he brought for me. My Friendship for Mr Luzac will be motive enough to do him all the Service in my Power.\n          The Disposition of The H. of R. is very firm not to say Obstinate\u2014 Yet there are hopes and favourable Symptoms. Few Members have yet committed themselves and many may retreat\u2014but others may consistently enough Vote for the Appropriations who have voted for the call for Papers. But much, indeed all will depend upon the Exertions of the People out of Doors in Expressing their sense & Wishes.\n          Twenty nine Members, a Majority of the Majority are from two States Virginia & North Carolina, all moving as one Man, not a dissenting Voice among them, appearing as if all drawn by one Cord\u2014 Yet this is boasted of as expressing the sense of the People.\n          Some Persons think that a few will come over, a few take their Leave, and a Majority vote the Appropriations.\n          A Worthy Friend of mine from one of the States to the southward of this, who is better acquainted with the southern Members than I have the honour to be, tells me that many of them are ignorant illitterate and stupid to a great degree and led by Mr M. Mr G. and now by Mr Gal. &c\n          Bitterness against the Government seems to have been the Qualification chiefly sought for in the Candidates and Candour Talents and Integrity little regarded, in the last Elections.\n          Does your present Assembly meet in November or the newly elected one?\n          It is a Consolation that New York is coming to a better Temper and Way of thinking.\n          I had a Line with some Newspapers from your Brother in London of the 1. of Feb. My Love to Mrs Adams.\n          I Sympathize with the Family in the unpleasant Fate but more in the unworthy Conduct of the one you mentioned to me\u2014 Pray wt is become of him. I am / affectionately your\n            John Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0138", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 21 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n          This Day seven Years I first took my seat in Senate and I hope I shall not sit there seven Years longer. The H. continues constant\u2014some Conjecture that by one means or another they will comply after sometime: but I see no present appearance of it. I pray with you for the Prosperity of Zion but that is all I can do.\n          The Town of Boston is under a bad Influence in the Hands of unwise and I fear unupright Conductors.\n          The despicable story of st. Hillaire, I have learn\u2019d from Charles but the Event upon Smith I had not heard, It is the Decree of Fate that I should be connected by two Branches with a weak Family and I must make the best of it. Nothing can happen from it worse than my fears and long Expectations. I am determined it shall not plague me.\n          As to Copeland He knows that my Contract with him was for 8 Dollars a Month for the Year and I told him expressly I would give him no more.\n          If you can have Billings, I dont desire any other.\n          You may let even the Corn field to the Halves if you will. I will let out the home Place for the future all but the House & Gardens.\u2014 I am determined to reduce my Family at Quincy, and do nothing at farming but occasionally.\n          I am glad the Hill is cross ploughed\u2014 I expected it would be worse in the Spring than it was in the fall.\n          You must buy Hay if it is wanted: but there must have been Waste.\n          I shall fat two Yoke of oxen upon the Island, I shant keep more than one Yoke at home & a Yoke of steers\u2014perhaps.\n          You call your Letters a Jumble but they are my Delight and mine are not half as good as yours.\n          Our Constitution is coming to a Crisis\u2014 I calculated at its Commencement about ten years for its duration. The People will this summer have to determine whether it shall Survive its Eighth Year.\nThe H. of R. seem determined to dictate to the whole Govt and Virginia is equally desirous of dictating to the H. and thro the Ignorance, Weakness and Wickedness of Boston New York & Philadelphia she is but too successfull. I am / most tenderly yours", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0139", "content": "Title: John Adams to Charles Adams, 22 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Charles\n            Philadelphia April 22. 1796\n          I believe I never have acknowledged the Rect of your favour of March 21.\u2014 In Dexter and Ames We lost the Lyre of Aphion in our H. of R. and Jaring Discords have led Mydas astray ever since.\n          The Rout before us is very thorny and very rugged and very Steep and what is worse than all the End of it is far behind the Hill, out of our sight, and may be more dangerous and impracticable than any Part of it that We see.\n          There are too many of the Members from N. York Mass. and especially Pensilvania bent on desperate Courses.\n          There is no Way of reconciling Parties. The Constitution ought to have provided against such Cases as these and have given the President Power to dissolve the House and call a new Election. As it is, the Country may be ruined before the People can interpose and decide.\n          What is become of St. Hilaire? What has happened to Mr shaw? What to Col. Smith?\n          I send you a Post Note for 100 dollars but I know not how I can make out to pay my own Expences to the next Quarter. Write me as often as you can if it be only a Line. Let me know wn you receive this.\n            John Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0140", "content": "Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to John Quincy Adams, 23 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, Thomas Boylston\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n            Dear Brother.\n          On the 19th: inst: the packets entrusted by you to the care of Erving, were handed me by Mr: Skinner. The letter for Messrs: Willink was sent them the day following, at which time I made application for a Bill in your favor as desired. The enclosed letter for Messrs:\nJohn & Francis Baring & Co will be equally efficacious as a Bill; & the reason why this mode is prefered will readily strike you. I understand that the mere presentment of it will be sufficient, & I wish it may reach you seasonably.\n          In my last letter of the 17th: Currt: I acknowledged the receipt of all the Articles, which at different times you have had the goodness to procure for me. The Newspapers too, have, been a treat to some of my friends, & were chiefly valuable upon that account.\n          In case a fresh draft shall appear from Charles, I shall follow your directions respecting its acceptance. As your letter of authorisation to him is on board one of the vessels, which was so long detained, it is doubtful whether it has yet reached him. I enclosed you a letter from him by my last & I now forward a few lines which were recd: at the same time, but were not thought material. It is pleasing to hear of his success both from himself & others; some young men do better after marriage than before.\n          The letter, which you sent me from my Father, reminds me, that the second year of my absence from Country, friends & profession had commenced; it is now more than half expired, and as the original period of my residence in Europe was calculated in my own mind not to exceed two full years, it is a duty which I owe to you, to myself & our mutual friends, that my sentiments & determination upon the subject of my return to our native land, should be fully known. It has been long my wish to communicate them to you, and as it yet remains problematic, when you may be permitted to return here, I embrace this occasion of doing it, in preference to a longer delay for the sake of a personal interview.\n          The situation in which I have been placed for the last six months, must be regarded as entirely fortuitous; but during its continuance, which circumstances give me reason to expect may be longer than I shall be disposed to occupy it, I do not consider myself as the master of my own conduct, and unless you are directed to resume your station here, & thereby release me of course, I must necessarily ask it of the Government. Though the public letters received, seem to consider you as at present in this Country, the delay, which has already taken place in transmitting the orders for your return, added to other circumstances that might be named, may authorise a surmise, that particular reasons have caused this procrastination, and that a fresh requisition of your person & services may be in contemplation. In this idea I am not entirely singular, though it is confessed that the particular circumstances of the times have chiefly\ncontributed to inspire it. Should it be realized, and your mission to this Country either terminated, or your return protracted, it is very probable that a new Minister may in one case be appointed to succeed you, or in the other, that some new arrangement will commit the affairs of our Country to other hands than those in which they are at present, during your absence. This at least is my wish, for there surely can be no inducement for me to remain here, if you are removed. Independent of the considerations of a private & personal nature, a regard for the public interest would dictate my renunciation of a trust, which may materially suffer in my hands, either from want of experience or capacity to discharge the duties it may impose. With any one but yourself this language might seem like an affection of meekness & diffidence, but as you can best judge of its truth, you can best appreciate its sincerity.\n          Whatever advantages I may derive from a temporary residence in Europe, especially at this period, it is necessary also to consider those which are relinquished. I am anxious to fix the path of my future pursuits, from which no deviation will be admissible, and as it is my design to return to my profession, when I take leave of Europe, the next year will probably be more usefully employed in renewing my acquaintance with Cooke & Blackstone, than in reading Newspapers, and writing commentaries upon them. As to the benefit obtainable from any connections to be formed in this Country, if a period once existed when such a thing was successfully practised, I regard it as past, and the best Theatre for every species of enterprise, except the trade of an adventurer, seems to me to be our own Country. I know that the return to the Bar, if mine can justly be styled such, will be the commencement of an Ordeal by no means pleasant to encounter. I dread it, but will not shrink from it, both from a conviction of its necessity, & because I well know my Father\u2019s partiality to the idea of having only Lawyers among his Sons. How to avoid its being a return to dependance is what concerns me most. I had rather be a Clerk for life, than subject myself again to that condition. With this sentiment I left home, and it must hereafter guide my conduct.\n          It was my intention to embark in the Autumn for America, had your return here been certain, but as this event becomes more dubious I must be determined in my movements by the orders you may receive, though after this explanation of my views, which respect myself merely, you will have no small share in fixing my resolution, by the advice & counsel which your fraternal affection shall\ndictate upon a consideration of their propriety. That you will give it to me without reserve I am confident.\n          In my letter of the 17th: I mentioned my having enclosed you a letter from Mr: No\u00ebl, and as your\u2019s of the 6th: currt does not acknowledge its receipt I am fearful of its having miscarried. In the cover I wrote \u201cenclosed 12th: March.\u201d I now forward one from Mr: D\u2019Araujo; both contain nothing more I believe, than a request to bring with you some Books.\n          Will you be good enough to purchase for me a pocket Geographical Dictionary\u2014edition 1795. such are to be had doubtless.\n          I must finish as the post for Rotterdam will be off, without my Letter.\n          With unalterable affection, Your Brother\n            Thomas B. Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0142", "content": "Title: John Adams to Charles Adams, 24 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Charles\n          I have yours of the 22d. Mr Van Persyn I shall be glad to see whenever it Suits his convenience to come to Philadelphia.\n          I can Say little of favourable Symptoms. The Waggon is fast in the Mire, up to the Axletree and unable to move forwards or backwards. Whether the People will draw us out or not, and Whether\nWe shall advance or retreat I know not. The Passengers are unable to help themselves. The Cattle drawing up Hill are so exactly matched to the Load and those drawing down, that the Wheels stand still.\u2014 We are too suddenly and hastily proving what the World will reluctantly be convinced of, that Man kind in their most innocent Character and under the best Circumstances are unqualified to govern themselves.\n          There is throughout the World a popular Envy a vulgar malignity against all who are Superiour to them in Talents Virtues, Birth, Education, Wealth or any Thing else. To this Class of People Thirty Twenty Nine Reps. from V. and N. C. nine or ten of whom represent nothing but black Property are addressing themselves. They are joined by Renegadoes from Geneva, England, Ireland, by Debtors Antifederalists and French Tools\u2014All together are able to clogg the Wheels of Government. Numbers in N. York as well as Philadelphia & Boston will be against Weight, and Reps will always regard Number more than Weight.\n          I thank you for your kind Invitation to your house. I shall make your House my Home when I come to N. York, but when that will be I am unable to Say. I fear not before June\u2014and then I shall Stay but a night. My Affairs are Suffering at Quincy so much that I must be with them as soon as possible.\n          Let me know as soon as you can how your Elections go and whether Mr Burr is chosen into your Senate.\n          I am my Dear sir your Affectionate / Father\n            John Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0143", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Abigail Adams, 24 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My dear Mother.\n          You will find by the papers that I send with this letter, what you will perhaps know before the receipt of it; that is that the negotiations for Peace have stumbled at the threshold, and that a trial of one more year of War is to be endured by the contending Nations. The Notes of Mr: Wickham & Mr: Barthelemi are considered as decisive upon this point.\u2014 The scarcity of provisions has suddenly disappeared both in France and in this Country. Wheat and flour have fallen from excessive to very moderate prices. There are complaints here of a great scarcity of money, but it will find its relief in a new loan for seven millions and an half which is already made.\n          I send you likewise some late reviews which may give you the literary news, more valuable because more durable than those of a political nature.\u2014 The famous Shakespeare manuscripts about which I wrote you soon after my arrival here, are now generally considered as mere forgeries. The play of Vortigern was once performed, and fairly laughed off the stage.\n          I had not an opportunity to judge of it myself as I could not attend on the Evening of its first and only performance, but the opinion of all those who heard it appears to be unanimous, that it is not only an imposture but a very awkward and clumsy one.\u2014 Volumes have been written & published on the subject, and men of all sorts take now a pride in girding at the poor proprietor of the manuscripts.\n          I have no letters from my father dated later than December. None from you later than January, none from any of my friends in America of a more recent date. Still I flatter myself I have not been forgotten. I write so much and so often that I seldom get a correspondent of equal punctuality with myself.\u2014 From other Americans however, I collect the information of that Country, as late as the\nbeginning of March. It looks fair and promising. But our political tides ebb and flow with such rapidity and violence that I place not the most thorough reliance on the permanency of any favourable prospect.\n          I beg to be remembered affectionately to all friends, and remain your invariably faithful Son", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0145", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams Smith to John Quincy Adams, 27 April [1796]\nFrom: Smith, Abigail Adams\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n            My Dear Brother\n          I had the pleasure yesterday to receive your kind letter of the 23d of Febuary from London\u2014 we supposed that you had returnd to the Hague ere that period\u2014 the communication is so much more regular from England to this Country that we should hear more frequently from you from there than from Holland\u2014which is a sufficient inducement to me to desire that you should remain there\u2014\n          you receive I presume through other chanells every political\ninformation respecting our Country\u2014 I cannot however refrain from expressing my anxiety upon this subject\u2014 the present is a period in the affairs of our Country which must excite the apprehensions of every good Subject\u2014 the British Treaty is now under the Consideration of the House of representatives and there is a party and it is to be feared a Majority who have assumed to themselvs a Constitutional right of deciding upon its merits and adoption\u2014 there is an attempt to avoid making the necessary appropriations for carrying it into affect\u2014 at the Head of this Party is a Mr Edward Livingston of this City the Younger Brother of the Chancellor how it will terminate is as yet uncertain\u2014 it will prolong the session to a distant period\u2014 I fear we Shall have a turbulent year\u2014 the Ellections come on in the Spring and the parties will I expect run very high\u2014 the Democrats will use every indeavour to affect their purposes no exertion on their part will be omitted\u2014 what will be the result cannot as yet be conjectured\u2014 in this City we are like to experience much individual embarrassment from the extreme scarsity of money in Circulation\u2014from an apprehension of War; or some local establishments now in agitation every person who possesses money hold it up from an idea that War is the inevitable consequence of not fullfilling the Treaty upon our part I do not pretend to understand the merits of the Cause but of this I am well assertained that the depredations of the British upon our Commerce has very much embarrassed those who have been so unfortunate as to fall into their Hands\u2014 Colln S\u2014\u2014 has been particularly unfortunate his Ships have been taken his property detained merely from the Caprice or ill Humour of the Captors\u2014 but there is no use in enumerating evils which are irremidable the vicissitudes of Fortune have been a copious theme for Complaints since time has revolved\u2014 the greatest magnimnity Consists I beleive in submitting to them, without repining severe as the Conflict may be I shall indeavour to acquire this species of Philosophy\n          it is a pleasure to me to receive any proofs of the memembrace of friends I esteem\u2014 there are many persons in London\u2014of whom I hear with much Sattisfaction\u2014 I have lately had an opportunity of renewing an acquaintance with the Son of Mr & Mrs Copley\u2014who passed some time in New York on his Tour through the States he is an amiable pleasant young Man and has made many friends amongst us\u2014\n          I shall ever remember with gratitude the many kind attentions we\nreceived from Mr and Mrs Johnson and their family they are very amiable\u2014 we have been expecting to see them in this Country\u2014from the arangements they were making when we left them\u2014 I think they will find themselvs much at home in America\n          Mr Gore from Boston dined with us yesterday he has received an appointment which if the Treaty is fullfilled will carry him to England\u2014 he proposes to embark in June with his family\u2014 you will I am sure meet him with pleasure\u2014\n          our Brother is well as is our new Sister\u2014 they dined with us yesterday I hope that I shall hear from you more frequently than I have in times past it shall not be my fault Colln Smith and my Children desire to be rememberd to you beleive me that absence has not abated the sincere / affection of your Sister\n            remember me to Thomas I intended writing to him but the Ship sails sooner than I expected", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0146", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 28 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            my Dearest Friend\n          What ever the Majority of the House of Representitives may think of their conduct, and motives, the people, the Sovereign people will Support their constitution, and no stab has ever been more fatal to the Enemies of our Government than what they will now receive from the voice which cries from all New England. our Faith Shall be preserved, we will fullfill our engagements, we will not submit to an usurped authority, and it Must reach every state in the union. The Jacobins thought there Authority of Sufficient weight to\n            counteract, the merchants who were signing a petition to Congress. they insisted upon a Town meeting. they accordingly met at Funel Hall. they were two numerous, and adjournd to the old south. tis Said more than two thousand persons were collected. Jarvis made a motion that the President should be petitiond to deliver the papers. this was almost unanimously rejected. Jarvis Austin were the Speakers on one side Dr Warren coffin Jones & otis on the other. the Speah of the latter is much applauded, and is said to have been so pathetic as to Draw tears from the Audience. Dr Jarvis observed that personally this Subject concernd him very little as he found himself hastning to the World of Spirits. mr otis retorted upon him, that when he arrived there he hoped he would be Satisfied with the Government, of it when the Antis found how the pulse beat, they were for adjourning without taking the Question, \u201care you for petitioning that the Treaty may be carried into effect,[\u201d] but the call for the Question was so loud and vehement, that it was taken, and the Majority was as a humdred to one. in Newburry port only three Dissenting voices in short the Spirit is Spreading far and wide, and the Country Towns are assembling. the Nakedness of the Majority is pretty well understood, and in the House of Representitives is discoverd, and their conduct with respect to this Treaty has taken of the Scales from Many an Eye.\n          Whilst I see the desire of equity order and good Government, rising up to oppose War Anarchy and confusion, I feel ready to make every personal sacrifice in aid of the cause. I shall not therefore say one word, of when will you return? that I wish for it, You cannot Doubt but I wish more that your Health may not be injured by so long and close application. I also wish that a just speedy and happy termination may be the issue of this contest, and that the Government may stand firmer and Surer for having been thus assaild.\n          The Thoat Distemper rages again in Boston. poor Genll Knox has lost two of his youngest children in one Day with it two more lye sick\u2014\n          I went yesterday and spent the Day with mrs Cabot, and Sweet communion we had, tho neither She or I ralishd the Idea of next March, but this matter must come speedily to a close.\n          ever yours", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0147", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 28 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n          Our Coach is Still immoveable. The Anarchical Warriours are beat out of all their Entrechments by the Arguments of the Friends of Peace and order. But Party Spirit is blind and deaf. totally destitute of Candour\u2014unfeeling to every candid sentiment. The People are alarmed and Petitions are coming from all Quarters, mostly in favour of the Treaty. The Business will not be finished, if the first Vote should be against the Treaty in the House. The Senate must then take up the Subject and Send down a Bill for Appropriating Monies for the British Treaty which will occasion another Debate in the House.\n          I have no Letter from you this Week as yet.\n          Mr Madison looks worried to death. Pale, withered haggard\u2014 Livingston looks like Horror. They have brought themselves into great Embarrassments. Gallatin has been exposed and his Ignorance as well as his other Ridicules held up. It is intollerable that a Forreigner, Should act such a Part as he has done and yet go on. I am with, long habits of / Attachment your", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0148", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 30 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n          I am not surprized at your Anxiety expressed in your Letter of the 25th. which I recd Yesterday. The Conduct of certain Mules has been\nso gloomy and obstinate for five Months past as to threaten the most dangerous Effects.\n          The Proceedings of Boston N. York & Philadelphia now compared with their intemperate folly last July or August is a curious Specimen of Negotians with foreign Courts & Nations by the People at large in Town Meetings. Those Cities have disgraced themselves & their Leaders.\n          The House Yesterday in Committee voted to make the Appropriations\u2014 But in the House they will disgrace themselves again by Party Maneuvres, to day and by factious Preamples or preparatory Resolutions. Our Varnum who is as cross a Goat as any from Virginia not excepting Rutherford was out of the Way\u2014another Member Patten from Delaware was absent\u2014both will vote to day against the Resolution: so that the Business is still in suspence: and the Anxiety and Vigilance of the People ought not to relax\n          Mr Ames, the day before Yesterday in his feeble State, Scarcely able to stand upon his Legs and with much difficulty finding Breath to utter his Periods, made one of the best Speeches he ever produced to the most crouded Audience ever assembled\u2014 He was attended to with a silence and Interest never before known and he made an Impression that terrified the hardiest and will never be forgotten. Judge Iredel and I happened to sit together\u2014 our feelings beat in Unison\u2014 My God! how great he is says Iredel? He is delightful Said I\u2014 presently gracious God! says Iredel [\u201c]how great he has been\u201d? He has been noble, said I.\u2014 after some time Iredel breaks out Bless my stars I never heard any thing so great since I was born! It is divine Said I\u2014 and thus We went on with our Interjections not to say Tears till the End\u2014 Tears enough were shed\u2014not a dry Eye I believe in the House, except Some of the Scoundrels Jack Asses who had occasioned the Necessity of the oratory\u2014 These attempted to laugh\u2014but their Vissages grinn\u2019d horrible ghastly smiles\u2014 They smiled like Foulons son in Law when they made him kiss his Fathers dead and bleeding Head. Perhaps the Speech may not read as well\u2014 The situation of the Man excited Compassion and interested all Hearts in his favour. The Ladies wished his soul had a better Body.\n          We are told Harri. Otis excelled at Boston and displayed great oratorical Talents\n          I cannot give Encouragement nor entertain any hope of getting away before the fifth of June.\u2014 Unless the hard hearts should be softened.\n          The Heart of Pharaoh was judicially hardened and so are those of \u2014\u2014\u2014\n          Mass. has 3 of the worst\u2014two of whom are moral Characters, of a Levity altogether inconsistent with the Principles Practices Habits and Wishes of their Constituents I mean Lyman & Dearborne. Dissipation is their prevailing Virtue and all they have to boast. I wish their Constituents would institute an Inquiry into their Conduct. Varnum is an Obstinate fool. Entre nous all this.\n          I am, most tenderly", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0149", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 1 May 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            my Dearest Friend\n          I last Evening received Your favours of April 21, 23, 24 & 26th. I think an other week will discover the Sense of the people so fully, that the Representitives can no longer delay to perform their part. I have not on any occasion Seen so general and universal an allarm. The people have waited During a Months Debate with patience and temper, expecting that in the End, the House would comply, but as they see them grow hardned, and the period nearly at Hand, when Great Britain has stipulated to deliver the posts, a well grounded fear has pervaded throughout New England, which has roused the\nMerchant the Mechanick, the Farmer. a large Majority of each will be formd to call upon the House of Representitives, and to warn them not to prostrate the Faith and Honour of the Nation. the circular Letter which You will See in the centinal of yesterday, the 30th, has been Sent here, and tomorrow is our May Meeting, when it will I Suppose be laid before the Town. Captain Beal, brought up those for Quincy for Weymouth Braintree Randolph Stoughton Sharon, all of which he rode to, in one Day and deliverd himself. I wish his knowledge was equal to his zeal, for that is to be commended. Deacon Webb, enterd but coldly into the buisness. the Letter is addrest to the Select Men. there was a proposal that the papers should be read after Meeting to night, and tomorrow be Sign\u2019d. the Deacon thought that it would require a Month to inform the people, and he could not see what good it was to Do. he however said, that he would communicate the papers. he could not come to Meeting this forenoon. if he had he might have learnt his Duty from the pulpit. Defend thou the Walls of our Jeruselem, was the Subject, in discussing which Mr Flint took occasion to Draw a comparison between the Strong wall of a city, and the Government of a Nation, and the Duty of its inhabitants to defend and protect the one, as well as the other, particularly one so free so equal so just as that which was establishd over the happy people of America, where every Man was at perfect Liberty to worship his Maker agreable to the Dictates of his own conscience, and where the Laws equally protected the Lives Liberty and property of all, that it was the peculiar Duty of Such a people to Gaurd the Walls of their Jeruselem against foreign invasion, and Domestick Division, that it was not only a political, but a Religious Duty, it was a Duty which they owed to posterity, to transmit to them so fair an inheritence.\n          The people listned with great attention. what our popular Declaimers may Do tomorrow I know not, but I know they would generally do right, if there was one person capable of giving them proper information. mr Cranch is so feeble and unwell, that I do not think he will be able to attend, and then not being a native American he would not Speak upon this occasion, without some persons throwing out that he was an Englishman. mr Black tho meaning right, lies under a Similar difficulty. at this very critical period I wish to hear from You by every post. I do not like one thing which is thrown out as a Threat, I mean a Division of the States. We need only to turn to History to read our Fate should such an\nevent take place. \u201cwe must not forget the old Liberty Song, of Steady Boys, Steady, by uniting we Stand, by divideing we fall\u201d\n          I shall see Dr Tufts in the course of the week & report what You say. I have engaged Billings for four Months he comes tomorrow. I would longer but he did not incline. Copeland will Stick by because he knows that he can not Do so well. I told him to go & Do the best he could. I was willing. I would not complain, but if he Did Stay, he should not grumble. the Man I hired for one Month, I shall continue untill planting is over. this peice of Ground is very Hard to cultivate it has been harrowd, and now they will get on the manure, and Harrow it in some persons Say, that cross plowing was a Damage, but it is Done. the Season is exceeding Dry, as Dusty as Mid Summer, rather cold for this week past. if you think You shall not get Home till June, the 3d week in May, when the planting is compleated, I design to go & See my Sister a ride I believe will serve my Health. I shall be absent a week. My Sister is fearfull of comeing this way least She should be sick from the journey as she was last Year, and both mr Peabody and My sister request me earnestly to visit them. the clover Looks well, but wants rain.\n          I will pay mrs Brisler Ten Dollors. be so good as to tell Brisler he must not forget paper pens & wax, of which I have made liberal use this last five Months\u2014\n          adieu Most affectionatly Yours\n            Abigail Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0151", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 4 May 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            my Dearest Friend\n          The first sight which saluted my Eyes this Morning was a fine colt. the complexion however is More like the Father than the Mother. having wisht you Joy upon this happy event, I shall proceed from this Domestick occurence to an other less important, to viz, that Cosset likewise has three ospring of the Same age with Octavia. they date their Birth from a memorable event too, for the inhabitants of Quincy yesterday very generally Signd the Memorial. if the Select Men, the Fathers of the Town had first Signd, I believe there would not have been a Dissenting voice. Your Brother and Mr Black spoke in Town meeting, to explain the meaning and intent of the buisness. Webb, and Wilson Marsh were most in opposition, the latter of whom plead ignorance, & in his original way, Stammerd out, that he would not chuse to go even to heaven, in any bodys pocket, that he should chuse to See his way theither. Webb was Sure, that it would bring us again under the Dominion of great Britain, and he had frightned Several good people with that Idea. Some however told him that they must think for themselves. about 60 Signd the Memorial at the Meeting. it was moved to chuse a committe to assist the Select Men, who appeard a Dead weight. this was carried and Mr Black and Beal were chosen. every Select Man refused to Sign, because Webb would not. yesterday we had a training. captain Newcomb had some buisness with me in the morning. after it was finishd he askd me some questions pertinant enough. how it could happen that Such a Majority in the House should be opposed, to what others Said was so hurtfull to the Country, and whether I did not think it would Subject us to the power and Authority of great Britain? with regard to his first Question, I told him, in all large assemblies he was sensible there were some leading Members, and that in the House of Representitives those Members, some of whom were Foreigners, from various motives were antifeaderel, that with regard to his other question, he could have no reason, to think that President, & senate would do any thing, any more than the people to Subject the Country to a power, against which the President had fought, and so often risk\u2019d his Life, to\nobtain that independance which we now enjoy\u2019d. I read him a passage from a Letter of Yours in which You say, that it must be a National Determination and, that if the Nation determind upon war & confusion, You hoped they would not Charge it upon the Government. he seemd to be struck with this, and Said he was not for War\u2014 he Did not consider it in that light before, and that he would sign the memorial, which he did in the afternoon, and many of his company, so that last Evening, Captain Beal told me he had near a Hundred Subscribers\u2014 I observed to Newcomb that if the Treaty with Spain or Algiers was opposed in the Same Manner, that the people ought equally to petition that the Faith & Honour of the country might be preserved by carrying them into effect, that it was not the Country with whom the treaty was made, but the Lawfull power and Authority which the people had delegated to the President & Senate, was incroachd upon, and that the Merrits of the Treaty was not the Subject before them, but the Support of their Government. this Seemd to remove the fears he entertaind with respect to G B\u2014\n          at Weymouth, the Select Men requested mr Norton to read the papers after meeting, which he did, and the Dr explaind to them the design of the Memorial, upon which they Signd it without opposition. I have not heard from any other Towns. the people will generally be united. I avow a selfish motive, as well as a publick. I want to have the Buisness finishd, that My long absent Husband may / return to his ever affectionate\n            Abigail Adams\u2014", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0152", "content": "Title: John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 5 May 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          Mr Richard Cooke of Mary land will tell you all the News\u2014 I expect to sign the Bills this day which were all passed Yesterday for carrying into Exn. the Treaties with Great Britain Spain Algiers and the Indians\u2014 Yesterday seemed a Day of Universal and perpetual Peace foreign & domestic.\n          Tomorrow I go home\u2014 Congress will rise by the 20th. There is much Talk of the Resignation of the P. a Measure which I presume is resolved on. The Question it is said will lie bet. two Persons\nwhom you mentioned as the Competitors Six or seven Years ago. one of them will be wholly passive you may depend upon it and is very indifferent, really truly & sincerely not affectedly or hypocritically indifferent about the Result. He will not be frightened before nor after however the Decision may be.\n          our Friends are all well\u2014 Your Letters continue to give me great Pleasure\u2014 I thank you for the Books\n          your affectionate\n            John Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0153", "content": "Title: John Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 5 May 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Thomas Boylston\n            My Dear Thomas\n          I am extreamly sorry to hear that you have been ill of your old Complaint: but was somewhat consoled at the same time by hearing you were better. Exercise of Walking or riding will be your Life in Holland.\n          Our Affairs are assuming a face of good Humour which is very pleasant after so long a storm. We shall have Peace and good Govt for some Years I hope\u2014\n          I long to learn your Intentions about coming home or staying in Europe.\n          In a certain Event I might want you more than ever. I am yours / Affectionatly\n            John Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0154", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Abigail Adams, 5 May 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My dear Mother\n          I received a few days ago your favour of Feby: 29. which was doubly grateful to me, as it was the first letter I had received from America, for many weeks.\u2014 Since then I have also received a letter from Philadelphia, which determines my immediate return to the Hague, from whence I hope that the next letter I shall write you will be dated.\n          You will find in the papers enclosed all the news that are current.\nA very important and decisive victory has been gained by the french army in Italy, the details of which have not however yet been received here. But the naval preponderancy of this Country becomes more aggravated and indisputable every day, and every french frigate that ventures to appear in the channel is sure of being immediately captured.\n          Mr: Paine has written another pamphlet to which he has as usual given an eccentric title. It is \u201cthe decline and fall of the English system of finance.\u201d Like all the former writings of that political Harlequin, it contains some coarse wit, some shrewd remarks, some whimsical combinations, with a vanity still inflating, and which has already swolen him to such a size, that we are tempted to believe the experiment of the frog in the fable, may be sometimes successful.\u2014 I send one of this pamphlet by the present opportunity, and if you think it worth reading, it will amuse you.\n          Upon the whole I have pass\u2019d a pleasant Winter here; the greatest objection that I can make against London is too much society. However I have had, and shall have again at the Hague as much of retirement as will serve as relief to the dissipation of this place, and I find that the last agrees best with my health.\n          If the voice of fame is as busy as it usually is upon such occasions you will perhaps expect to be informed that I return not unaccompanied to Holland, and that the matrimonial propensity has been irresistible to me, as well as to others. But my dear Madam, the Grace of consideration, has not entirely forsaken our family, and upon the maturest reflection I have, though I own very reluctantly concluded that I must not yet take upon me the incumbrance of a family. My present sentiments indeed would answer the question I made in my letter from Helvoetsluys in a different manner from what I should have then inclined to: my affections have taken their direction, and if those with which they have been return\u2019d can stand the test of an absence which must be of indefinite duration, you may consider my choice as irrevocably fixed. I may further add that it is pledged, and for its final conclusion waits only upon the permission of Prudence.\u2014 She tells me that I must return to the Hague alone, and wait for more favourable or more permanent prospects; and although Passion has summoned many very plausible arguments to prove that the present is the only moment for decision, and that the delay will perhaps produce the loss of the object, it is all to no purpose. Prudence is inflexible, and I go from hence alone.\n          I have a letter from my brother at the Hague as late as the 28th: of last month. He has had a very severe attack of Rheumatism, which was afterwards followed by a still more violent bilious remittent fever; but he tells me that he has recovered all but his strength, and is daily gathering that. His last letter appears to be written in very good spirits, and he assures me that I need not make myself anxious on his account. I repeat this assurance with much pleasure to you, because I believe it to be really the case, and you will be glad to hear that he is out of danger; but I shall feel still easier when I shall have joined him myself.\n          Our accounts from Boston are to the 8th: and from New-York to the 5th: of April. The intelligence both public and private is unpleasant though not unexpected. The increasing prospect of a contest between the Executive, and the popular branch in the Government of the United States, is a very alarming one to my mind. I have indeed no doubt where the right of the question lies, but that the wrong should appear in such strength is subject of serious reflection. I have yet great confidence in the sober discretion of the American People, and hope that when the crisis, which I fear is inevitable comes, their wisdom will settle it coolly according to their true interests.\n          As to the private circumstances that have occurred at New-York, painful as it has been to hear of them, you know how long they had been expected by me, as well as by yourself and my father.\n          With my affectionate remembrance to all friends, accept the assurance of invariable duty and attachment from your son", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0155", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Charles Adams, 10 May 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, Charles\n            My dear Brother.\n          Your favour of January 6th: was received by our brother Thomas at the Hague, and by him forwarded a few days ago to me. He has been very ill during a great part of this last Winter; at first with an attack from his old Enemy the Rheumatism, and afterwards with a bilious intermittent fever, but by his last Letters he appears in a great measure to have recovered, and I hope by this time he has entirely so. I am in hopes of joining him again in the course of a few days, as I expect to take passage in the first neutral vessel that will go to Holland.\n          I do most fervently hope that the report of the President\u2019s intention to resign at the expiration of the present term of his appointment, is without foundation: for independent of that great weight of personal popularity, which has been essential to the support of the Government, and which it most assuredly will very much want in future, it is I think of the utmost importance that the same man should continue to preside untill the neutral policy of the United States shall be established immovably as a precedent and example for future times; and that cannot be untill the present war between France and Britain shall be terminated\n          It is now ascertained beyond a reasonable doubt that this war will be continued at least another campaign. If it should extend to one or two more still there would be nothing in the circumstances surprizing to sober and reflecting men. The danger to the United States, of being involved in it is rather increasing than diminishing, and I confess that I consider our present chief magistrate, as the only person who in that capacity can controul the current which would impel us into the center of the whirlpool.\n          The body of the people you tell me begin to see through the turbulent hypocrisy of factious men, and scorn to be governed by french art, or british insolence.\u2014 It is certainly a very pleasant thing to pay compliments to the body of the people, but as long as the favourite objects of their choice in the house of Representatives persevere in such a system of conduct as they have pursued for the last three years, and by that system acquire daily more of their confiden[ce.] I shall never pay them the compliment to say or to think that they understand their interest or know their friends.\n          Randolph indeed has been abandoned by most of his\naccomplices, and the friends of the Government seem to think it a mighty triumph to have detected, and exposed such a man as that. But his co-operators continue their career as if nothing had happened, and while the body of the people, are congratulating themselves upon their independent spirit which scorns to be directed by french art or british insolence, they may very possibly find themselves drawn into a ruinous and destructive War; and then they will look round and wonder how they got into it.\n          You think the successor of the chief magistrate will not hold a situation so very uncomfortable; but do you not see the inevitable tendency of things to an open breach between the house of Representatives and the other branches of Government? Do you not clearly perceive the propensity they have to swallow up the Senate and Executive in their own omnipotence, and are you not aware how much the character of the Constitution, and the temper of the body of the People favours that propensity? If you did not see it when you wrote me last, I believe you have reason, to know it before this, and I am very sure you will see enough of it before you are much older.\n          The news of Europe is not at this time very important. The campaign on the Rhine does not appear to have been opened as yet; but that in Italy has begun by a succession of splendid victories on the part of the French, which may terminate by a Peace with the king of Sardinia. The War has been for some time, not a War of Liberty or of Government, but a War of conquest for France and Britain. In that according to all appearances it will end. France will add more or less to its territory, and Britain to its colonies. France will become more preponderant than ever by land, and Britain by sea. The Nations as usual will have shed their blood and spent their treasures profusely, to extend the boundaries of one country and the commerce of another, and their posterity while they curse the follies and madness of these days, will bleed with equal prodigality for some other madness or folly of their own.\n          The extraordinary scarcity of provisions which was said to threaten all Europe with a famine, has every where suddenly disappeared, and all the articles of necessity are plentiful and cheap. The American speculations in flour and rice which have been carried to such immense extent in the course of the last Winter will occasion a violent concussion somewhere; for at this time the french will not pay and the English will not buy. I am afraid many of our merchants will suffer severely.\n          As to my private affairs I have not yet an answer from you, to my letter written at Helvoetsluys. I hope you did not draw while the Exchange was so very low as it has been in the winter.\u2014 I hope to write you before long from Holland, and in the mean time, with my best regards to your lady, remain your affectionate brother", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0156", "content": "Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to Joseph Pitcairn, 17 May 1796\nFrom: Adams, Thomas Boylston\nTo: Pitcairn, Joseph\n          Your favor of the 10th: currt: has just come to hand, and as I find a vacant moment, it cannot be better employed than in renewing my thanks for your kind attention to the Commission relative to my Books. I have requested Mr: Bourne to refund the Cash paid by you on my account, as the prospect of my seeing him before you, is perhaps greatest. In my letter of the 4th: instt: I gave you similar information, it has probably reached you ere this.\n          I have heard of the demand made by the Representatives for the Instructions & other documents relative to the negociation with Great Britain, & I am not a little curious to hear the results of a refusal. It is certainly a delicate point, and must try the strength of our Executive; I am not sure however that the trial was not necessary. We have reached a period in our Government, when it becomes important to settle principles, & to define with minuteness the limits of power & prerogative which must be attributed to the several branches of Administration. The Constitution is our Charter, and every deviation from it, from whatever quarter it may come should be checked with firmness, or there must soon be an end of\nfreedom among us. The popular branch in every Government where it exists is apt to encroach upon the powers, which are delegated to the Executive; they have a kind of self sufficiency or as the french say esprit du Corps, which makes them impatient under the exercise of functions in which they have no share, & if their spirit of usurpation be indulged in a single instance, the progress towards the assumption of sovereignty becomes rapid. We have hitherto had but few instances of this kind in our Country, but our Constitution I apprehend has not yet undergone its severest trials.\n          All accounts from America represent the state of our Commerce and Agriculture as florishing beyond example; from the high price of provisions especially of Grain, it may be feared that many of our young adventurers in the Commercial world will suffer. The European market will not bear them out in their extensive anticipations, added to the enormity of Seamen\u2019s wages. The comparative estimate of our exports, with those of Great Britain is certainly flattering, but it must be allowed that our 5 millions of inhabitants have ten times the extent of territory from whence to draw their supplies for the European market under its present circumstances. Our Imports too have generally kept pace with the exports pretty closely, so that the balance of clear gain may eventually be small.\n          My Brother may be expected over very soon, as he waits only the receipt of a letter from me. He has to be sure had the advantage of me, in his Winter excursion, but bad as Holland is in point of climate, I prefer a residence here before that of London. Sickness out of the scale & the loss of his Society, & I can say with truth I had no wish to be with him during his absence.\n          With sentiments of real esteem & friendship, I am Dr Sir / Your very humble servt:\n            Thomas B. Adams.\n            P. S. The Bearer Mr: David Dehone is a Countryman of ours from Charlston S. C. in whose favor I beg leave to solicit your civilities.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0157", "content": "Title: John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 19 May 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          After a tedious Session of Congress, rendered uncommonly disgusting by the obstinacy of a Party in the House of Representatives, I had an Opportunity of Signing a Bill for the appropriations necessary for the Treaties with Great Britain Spain Algiers and some Indians and then asked and obtained Leave of Absence\u2014 Here I am, so absorbed in the Embraces of my Family and my rural Amusements that I have already forgotten all the unpleasant Moments of the whole Winter.\n          I continue to receive from you, my dear son, all the Amusement and Information in your Letters and all the kind Presents of Newspapers and Pamphlets that the fondest Father can reasonably desire from a son. The Life of Dumourier and several other Things you have sent have obliged me very much and I wish you to continue to send me the most curious & important fresh Publications and charge the expence of their Purchase to my Account.\n          The Sense of the People in Boston N. York & Philadelphia has been ascertained in a very remarkable manner, upon the Treaty. Their Decisions this Spring are diametrically opposite to those of last Summer. Popular Inconsistency has had a Striking Illustration. Surely Newspapers are not the Vehicles, nor Townmeetings the Theatres of Negotiations between Nations.\n          I believe I have recd all your Letters to the Middle of February. I suspect by your last Letter to your Mamma that some Family or other afforded the means of making your Winter in London tollerable at least.\n          Madam De Freir\u00e9 the Portuguese Ambassadress at Philadelphia told me \u201cYour son will form some Attachment or other in Europe\u201d\u2014 I sighed and assented to the Probability of it\u2014 But I wished in my heart that it might have been in America\u2014 But I have not a Word to say You are now of an Age to judge for yourself.\u2014 And whether you return and choose here, or whether you choose elsewhere, Your deliberate Choice shall be mine.\n          It is a long time since I have any Letter from Thomas.\n          The News Papers will give you Politicks better than I can\u2014 Indeed I cannot bear to think on them enough to write about them.\n          Boston has got an amazing f\u0153deral Representation.\u2014 Our\nElections come on this fall and I hope for a better House and as good a senate. Who will be President or V. P. I know not.\u2014\n          I hope your Kindness in Writing to me will not be damped by my Negligence in return\n          I am with a tender Affection your Father\n            John Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0158", "content": "Title: John Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 19 May 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Thomas Boylston\n            My Dear Thomas\n          It is a long time Since I have recd any Letter from you, and the Report that you have had a Return of your Rheumatism has allarmed me\u2014 We heard that you were better but should be glad to know the Particulars.\n          I am once more happy at home, and my Farm, by the help of a fine rainy season shines very bright.\u2014 I Should be glad to be informed, of your Plans and Views\u2014 Whether You mean to return or to stay in Europe.\u2014 I cannot Advise you because you know better than I the Prospects you have.\u2014\n          America is the rising Country of the World and Talents Genius and Eloquence are breaking out with a Splendor that will soon rival the ancient & modern Europe\u2014 It is my opinion the best Theatre on the Globe for the formation of a Man is in this Country, at present.\u2014 But you may have means and Schemes that I am unacquainted with.\n          I know the Delicacy of your Situation, but I am anxious to know the operation of the new systems of Government in France as well as Holland.\n          Boston has gone through a Revolution as great as Either\u2014 They were mad last July\u2014 They are now sober\u2014 They have petitioned by a vast Majority for the Execution of the Treaty with great Britain and they have left out their Jacobinical Representatives and chosen F\u0153deral Men!\n          I am with a tender Affection / Your Father\n            John Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0159", "content": "Title: Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody to Abigail Adams, 19 May 1796\nFrom: Peabody, Elizabeth Smith Shaw\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dear Sister\u2014\n          I rejoice that the important question in Congress has terminated so happily, & that the Vice president has again returned in safety to his dear expecting Family. Warring passions often agitate the human mind. When Mr Peabody returned, last Tuesday Evening from Newbury & brought me the Papers, announceing the arrival of the Vice president at his seat, I participated in your happy meeting, & present Felicity, but sorrow would shade my brow, as I knew it would dissappoint us of the long desired visit, from my much loved Sisters. I wished I had not prevented your coming before, I wished (forgive me, my good Brother) that your happiness had been deferred, & your return had been one week later.\u2014 Self will prevail in these degenerate days\u2014 I claim not those almost angelic degrees of virtue patriotism, & disinterestedness to which he has arrived\u2014 I feel at an humble distance in everything\u2014 Yet we wish he would do us the honour of a visit, will he not be so good as to accompany you here\u2014 I know it is not so agreeable upon the account of company as at Haverhill\u2014 There is a mile of the road bad, but not half so rough as it is to weymouth\u2014 We go to each others houses, spend an afternoon, & return by dark\u2014 General Peabody lives half mile from us, I often wish he lived nearer\u2014 he is a sensible man\u2014something singular\u2014but very hospitable & generous\u2014 He seeks the real interest of the Town, but they are so jealous of him, that they will hardly accept of the lest benefit from him\u2014 He has founded an accademy here, but many will not send their Children, either through envy, or fear, lest there should be some lurking evil\u2014 The General esteems Mr Peabody, & has been vastly polite, & generous to us since I came here\u2014 Upon hearing I expected you, he presented us with a quarter of a march Lamb, weighing eight pound a quarter\u2014 we roasted it, but alas! fine as it was, it lost its flavour, by your not partaking of a part\u2014\n          I did not send for Betsy Quincy before, because she w[as] (poor Girl) to stay till my Vendue was over\u2014 That was last week, & this I expected you\u2014 I should now be glad of her return, as soon as you can convenien[tly] send her\u2014 I can find no private conveyance, so she had better come in the Stage\u2014 There is a dancing School to be opened here in about a week, perhaps I shall think it best to send\nher\u2014 Mr Du Cary, a very agreeable french Gentlemen will have a School here, & at Haverhill\u2014keeping two days in a week\u2014 I dispair of making Betsy upright, yet I wish to give her every advantage of education that I can possibly obtain\u2014\n          With ten thousand thanks for yours, & my Brothers kindness, I am your affectionate Sister\n            Elizabeth Peabody\n            Mr Peabody desires me to present his respects\u2014 Be so kind as to give my love to my Neices\u2014 I feel perfectly ashamed that I have not written to your Children\u2014 I have a thousand avocations This is a world of hurry, & bustle & perplexity, but I hope I shall get rid of some of my care\u2014\n            I hope Cousin Betsys health is perfectly restored dear Girl, I love her exceedingly\u2014 I fear she will never be happy till she is well settled in a family way\u2014 I would have her come home to me, when ever she pleases\u2014", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0160", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Quincy Adams, 20 May 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          I have to acknowledge the receipt of Several Letters from You Since Your arrival in London, the first Novbr 24th Janry 6th Febry 23, and Yesterday I received Yours of March 20th, for all of which, accept my Thanks, and believe that they are to me a most Valuable Deposit. The desire You express, that no warmer encomium may be bestowed upon You; than a bare approbation, may restrain my pen, but cannot suppress my feelings.\n          Mr Gardner arrived after a short passage, and very kindly came the next Day after, and deliverd all the Letters papers and Books, which were committed to him. I was as much rejoiced to see him,\nas the woman was, who saw the Man, who had seen the King. I felt an interest in him, because I knew him to be your particular Friend, and acquaintance.\n          The Cloaks came safe to Hand. mr Gardner paid particular attention to them. I am much pleasd with mine, and so is Louissa with hers, for which she requests You to accept her Thanks: the Young Lady who undertook the commission, shews that she inherits the taste of Elegance which her Mamma is conspicuous for. present my compliments to Both, and thank them for me, and tell them that mr T B Johnson was very well last week, when I received a very polite card from him, in reply to an invitation which I had sent him, to dine with me on a particular Day.\n          The Cloak which You sent to Louissa as a present I shall not object to her receiving as a present, but I must request You to Charge the one you sent to me, to the account I directed. at the same time the intention of the Donor, is gratefully received. I will thank You for any Books particularly interesting. Those which You sent me of citizenes\u2019s Roland contain many curious annecdotes. there is through the whole a display of vanity, perfectly Characteristick of her Nation. no other, but a French woman, could have written so. poor Roland stands in the back ground, however brilliant a woman tallents may be, she ought never to shine at the expence of her Husband. Government of States and Kingdoms, tho God knows badly enough managed, I am willing Should be solely administerd by the Lords of the Creation, nor would I object, that a salique Law should universally prevail. I shall only contend for Domestick Government, and think that best administerd by the Female.\n          I have not written to You since Feb\u2019ry I have had such a surfeit of politicks, so contrary to My mind that it was painfull to detail them. the Majority in Congress assaild the Treaty with all the malice and Rancour of Party Spirit, and with a determined inveteracy strove to destroy it. 8 or 9 weeks were spent in this poor buisness untill the people took the allarm, and in the course of a few weeks the table of Congress was coverd with petitions from all parts of the union requesting them to make the necessary appropriations, to carry the Treaty into effect, that the Faith, and honour of the United States might be preserved. even those who did not like the Treaty, united in this wish considering the Faith of the Nation pledged. The triumph of the Friends of Government in Boston, was such as to astonish the Anarchists for a Town meeting was call\u2019d by them, to\noppose a memorial from the Merchants in favour of the Treaty, when behold, they were outvoted by an hundred to one, altho with their utmost exertions, During the ferment last summer, they could get only a few Towns in the country to join them in opposition. now the people have with one voice call\u2019d upon the Representives to fullfill the Treaty. on no occasion since the commencment of the Government has there been such an allarm. the voice was, we will support the Government, we will not have war. even the little village of Quincy presented more than an hundred petitioners.\n          Mr. Ames, tho in so low and weak a state, as not to have been able to speak once through the Session, was determined to devote his Life to the cause, and 2 Days before the vote was taken in Congress, rose and made, as is universally agreed, one of the ablest and most eloquent speaches ever deliverd in that House, to the most crouded Audience. scarcly able to support himself he interested all hearts in his favour, and left an impression waterd with the Tears of his audience, tho not washed out, for it sunk too Deep. Scarcly were they restraind by the Rules of the House, from bursting forth what their full Hearts felt. yet during the Time he was speaking near two Hours, Your Father who was present, and from whom I received the account, says that the most perfect Silence reignd the Buz of a fly, might have been heard, such was the attention given.\n          Dr Preistly too was present, and declared that tho he had heard a Chatham, and the first orators in G B, he never heard a speach which exceeded this or a superiour Orator. perhaps the Speach may not read with So much interest. the feelings of the people were wrought up to a crisiss, and eloquence then is irresistable. even Giles said, he forgot on which Side of the Question he was, and the Genevian, pronounced him the only Orator in the House. I will send You the speach it is to be printed in a pamphlet as soon as I can obtain it.\n          From the close of Your Letter March 20th, I suspect that you were not so profound a proficient, in the Maxim of Horace and Pope, as you flatterd Yourself. Some Fair one has shewn You its sophistry, and taught you to admire! Youth and Beauty have penetrated through your fancied apathy, and You find yourself warmed by one and invigorated by the other; as you tell me that the enthusiasm of Youth has subsided, I will presume that reason and judgment have taken its place. I would hope for the Love I bear My Country, that the Syren, is at least half Blood. let me see, I think if I remember right,\nshe has classick Locks as Virgill stiles them, Heavenly blew Eyes and plays Musick delightfully\u2014\n          is Maria? has she no claims?\n          our Friends here are well. Your aged Grandmother is very infirm, but always sensible to warm and strong family attachments. she enters with me into the Joy and pleasure of hearing from her Grandsons. she bids me send you her blessing. Your Sister I had a Letter from last week. she was well. her little Amelia just getting well of the Small pox. Charles was well, and like soon to be a Father. I have not heard directly from Thomas Since December I regreet your leaving London on that account, that I shall so seldom hear from You. an other Year will make Changes in America, some perhaps the concequences of which are not foreseen. I allways hope they may not be unauspicious to the best interests of our Country they fill My Mind with much anxiety. You may not be at a loss to Devine the reason.\n          I am My Dear Son most tenderly / Your ever affectionate Mother\n            Abigail Adams.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0161", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Quincy Adams, 25 May 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          I came into Town Yesterday with your Father, and was surprizd to find mr Gore upon the point of Sailing for England. I had lookt for\nhim at Quincy before he went, but being himself Hurried and having but just returnd from Philadelphia, he had not Time to come out. Mrs Gore accompanies him. mr Tudor is also Passenger in the same vessel with many others from this place.\n          It will be needless to say any thing to you upon politicks as mr Gore can give You every information on that head, both as they Regard our National affairs, & of this particular State. Boston appears desirous of making ample attonement for its past folly and Rashness. the Representation of this Town you will learn is quite federal. Codman otis and your old Friend Cooper are of the Number.\n          I wrote you a Day or two since by a vessel which saild last week. since the Date of that I have to acknowledge the Receit of yours March 30th\n          accept My thanks for the papers, and Books. O what a Tragedy!\n          by the repeated hints in Your Letters I am persuaded to believe \u2026 I will Speak out if you will not. it is one of the Miss Johnstones who has become Your Flame. have I not guest right? yet not a Lisp from any one but your self have I heard. You have Years sufficient to judge for yourself, and whom you call yours Shall be mine also. only weigh well. consider maturely of the most important action of Your Life.\n          our Friends in Town are all well. Your Father will write You soon. many vessels are up for England. I shall write to Thomas by a vessel going to Hamburgh. mr Gore will no Doubt hint to You, an event contemplated. Should it take place, and an other event also, You will have less reason to expect promotion than you now have. your reasons for being Satisfied with your situation at the Hague, and giving that mission a preference to others more elevated, are such as bespeak the man of Modesty, possesst of a high sense of what is Due to others.\n          My Love to Thomas. poor fellow how my Heart acks for his Sufferings. I hope he did not lose the use of his Limbs. I have not had a line from him since early in December\n          your Brother & Sister were well when last I heard from them.\n          our Boston Friends desire to be rememberd to you. Mary Carter is married to a mr Cutts of Portsmouth, and Mary storer to a mr Johnstone of N York\u2014\n          I received a Letter from your Aunt Peabody. she writes in good Spirits, has a kind affectionate Husband, begs to be rememberd to you and your Brother, and thanks You most sincerely for your kindness to William. he conducts with much prudence and will get\nthrough colledge with the kind assistance of his Friends, the Friends of his Mother. his Fathers relations have never concernd themselves about him. adieu Young Johnstone was well yesterday. I shall see him to Day yours affectionately", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0163", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson, 2 June 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Johnson, Louisa Catherine\n          You remember I was ordered peremptorily to be at Gravesend on Saturday morning by ten or eleven o\u2019clock at the latest, though it was impossible for me to procure the necessary order to embark, and of course impossible for me to leave London before twelve. To reconcile the two circumstances was not within my competency, and indeed I think it might be given as no easy task to an abler man. I had besides left so many things undone by the common spirit of procrastination that upon the short notice I received, it would have required not simply the alertness but even the magical powers of an Harlequin to have expedited one quarter part of them so as to be perfectly punctual to the moment of my summons.\u2014 As I had however one very good reason to believe my Dutch Skipper would not willingly come away and leave me behind, I set myself about performing my indispensables in the morning so as to step into a Chaise the instant that my order from the Duke of Portland\u2019s office should be delivered me. Among my indispensables I will own to you, was about an hour devoted to a last sitting to Mr: Hull. He has I think as good a likeness as has yet been taken of that original, and you I think will like it better than the large portrait because it is not so much flattered. As soon as it is finished, he will send or carry it to your Pappa, who will doubtless know that it is destined for you. Accept it as a token of an affection which will cease only with the last pulse of the heart of him whose image it is, and may it often meet your eye, with one half the delight which at this instant he derives from a look at the precious corresponding pledge of your regard, which now lies on the table before him.\n          Upon a second call at the Duke\u2019s Office, the order for permission to embark was ready, and within ten minutes after, I entered the Post Chaise, half anxious to arrive at Gravesend in time for my opportunity, and half fretting, at the consciousness of an involuntary wish that I might be too late. On arriving at Gravesend at four o\u2019clock I found the vessel, after waiting for me three or four hours had just sailed, but as she was not far advanced, I took a boat immediately, and overtook her about seven miles below.\u2014 Our passage was boisterous but not unpleasant and on Tuesday at a similar hour to that on which I had embarked, I landed at Rotterdam.\n          In this Country you know, one of the common modes of travelling is in boats drawn by horses upon the canals. These boats follow one another regularly every hour or two from each town to the next. I felt impatient on my arrival, to meet my brother as soon as possible, and therefore immediately took a place in the boat that was coming from Rotterdam.\u2014 I had been seated in it but a few minutes, when I was joined by Mr: Bourne, who was just returning from Paris, as I was returning from London, and who was quite surprized to meet me there, the circumstance being equally unexpected to me.\n          On the same evening we reached this place, and one of my first enquiries was whether there was any vessel going soon to England. I found there was one waiting only for a wind, and I take advantage of the opportunity to give you this history of my voyage.\u2014 You will perhaps think I might have spared myself the trouble, but if I can draw from my own feelings any inference of yours it will not be altogether devoid of interest. I am indeed desirous to hear from you, and I am sure a detail of the minutest and most trivial circumstances in which you have any concern would give me pleasure. Six days have elapsed since I last enjoyed the happiness of seeing you, and in every hour of the time there have been many days.\u2014 My Philosophy\u2014I have called that very often to my aid, but it sometimes refuses to come at my call. The tediousness of absence in spite of every consolation will sometimes be irksome, but independent of that sensation, there is something pleasing and grateful in the remembrance of a distant friend.\u2014 On my return here I find myself in the midst of business enough, but it will take me some time before I shall be able to bend myself properly to it. My imagination cannot help flying from the flat realities around me to the scenes which have been recently familiar to me, which however highly prized while they were enjoyed, are still more valued now that they are past. I see you sitting on the Sopha with the table before you, working at a Vandyke, and Caroline at the other end with her silken network pinn\u2019d before her, while Nancy calls the very soul of harmony from the forte-piano. I place myself between you, I run a file of spangles upon a needle; I urge you, though without success to produce the long-expected Harp, or to give the graces of your voice to the shepherds charming \u201cpipe upon the mountain.\u201d From thence we pass to the opposite room, where the humorous additions to the Dictionary from one Sister, and the unfill\u2019d outlines of imprecation from another, delight and charm though they cannot inspire the\ninflexible dulness of gravity, at your Mamma\u2019s left hand; and at length when the hour of midnight sounded from the unrelenting monitor of the moments past, in spite of reluctance commands my departure, then is the moment for the illusion to vanish, and leave me to that solitude which the pencil of Fancy herself can no longer colour.\n          Since my return, I find myself confirmed in the determination to make the remainder of my stay here as short as possible, for I am more firmly convinced that my residence here in my present situation will become insupportable, and the change which alone could reconcile me to it, is still impracticable consistent with the prudential principles which however unpalatable, I must not abandon. I shall take the earliest opportunity of writing to my friends in America, and if I can procure any prospect that will enable me to indulge the wishes of my heart, I shall cheerfully resign a career of public life which can offer nothing satisfactory to Ambition, and which forbids the possession of that private happiness, the first object of my hopes and which you only can confer.\n          Remember me with respect and gratitude to your Mamma, and with kind attachment to all your lovely sisters. Tell Nancy that the Rosary and the new Sonatas yet vibrate upon the ears of Mr: Quiz, and Caroline, that he would with rapture hear once more her deep ton\u2019d execrations for the sake of making up all again by a shake of her hand. To yourself, Louisa, say in his behalf every thing that can give you the most pleasing and unmingled gratification, and be assured that however warm and eloquent the language may be it will fall far, far short of the feelings which fill the breast of your ever faithful and affectionate friend\n            John Q. Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0164", "content": "Title: Charles Adams to John Adams, 4 June 1796\nFrom: Adams, Charles\nTo: Adams, John\n          The canvass of the votes for Senators for this district and for Members of Assembly to Represent the City of New York was finished yesterday by the Statement I send you herewith you will perceive that the politics of this State have begun to run in a vigorous stream in the proper channel. Mr Burr is by this time pretty well convinced that his popularity is much less than he had fondly imagined. All is well. Those who are most acquainted with the sentiments of the people at large predict a federal Representation in both houses of six to one. We already see the benefit of our last census.\u2014\n          I met Mr King yesterday he informs me that my brother was nominated by the President as Minister Plenipotentiary to Portugal. There is a report in circulation in this City that Genet is again appointed Minister from France to The United States and that he has instructions to demand ten thousand men to aid the French in the West Indies. such is the report a few days will determine the truth or falshood of it.\n          If true we are again plunged into a dilemma. The Minister cannot be received unless we chuse to be a mark for the finger of scorn to point at. There is at present no necessity to comment upon a circumstance as yet unveiled. You friends here are all in good health Mrs Adams joins me in the sentiments of respectful affection to my mother and your self with which I am your son\n            Charles Adams.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0165", "content": "Title: John Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 9 June 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Thomas Boylston\n            My dear Thomas\n          It was no longer ago than Yesterday that I received your kind Letter of the 14. of December last, which arrived, after a long Passage, I Suppose, at Baltimore, and came from thence by the Post which carried them to Cape Cod and then returned them to Quincy. We have been anxious on your Account as We had recd no Letter except your Letter of Introduction to Mr De Persyn, and We heard you had been Sick, by a return of your Rhumatism.\n          Your Conduct in your new Situation will I doubt not do you honour. I have read Some of your Dispatches with Pleasure and have Reason to believe they have given Satisfaction at Head Quarters. If there is any Thing in which your Brothers Dispatches and yours have been deficient it is in not writting often enough to The Secretary of The Treasury on the Subject of the Loans of Money. This is the most important Branch of your Duties at the Hague, at present as many of the operations of Government may depend upon it.\n          Your Brother has had a long Residence in England, but We suppose is returned before this. His Conduct in England has been prudent and cautious, and has given no Uneasiness as I believe to his Employers. He has not been very miserable in London I Suspect: but I hope he has been wise.\n          The Treaty with G. B. has exhibited a Ph\u00e6nomenon\u2014It has shewn an Example of Democratical Negotiation with foreign Nations. It has shewn that you may as well commit to Safety, Peace and Prosperity of a Nation to the Winds as to Town Meeting and Newspaper Negotiation, or in other Words to what is called the Public Voice and the public opinion. The Public Voice at last, however, having the President and Senate to guide it has decidedly declared in their favour and the mighty Nothing is no longer talked of.\n          I agree with you, in all the Sentiments in your Letter, which discovers a degree of Information and a maturity of Judgment, as well as an Accuracy and Elegance of Style, which comforts a Fathers Heart and cherishes his most flattering Hopes. Even the Hand Writing is a kind of Model.\n          I thank you for the Pamphlet, which however is but a mercenary Production of some Rascal bribed to abuse Washington and America.\n          Mr De Persyn could not be persuaded to Stay but a day or two in Philadelphia. He had engaged to go into the Interiour of the State of N. York I suppose to look out for a Sc\u00e6ne of Action.\n          The Friendship of Professor Luzac, who is one of the most learned and ingenious of Men, as well as amiable virtuous and friendly in private Life, richly deserves your assiduous Cultivation.\n          I rejoice with Mr Dumas with all my Heart in his Tryumph. His Learning, Experience and Readiness in Languages may be Useful to you on many Occasions. But you will of Course be upon your Guard against his Prejudices. His Attachments to France and His Hatred to the Stadtholder and his friends are too ardent, to be always implicitly confided in by American Ministers.\n          Your Brother and You, I hope are not loosing your Time: but your Letters to me, published in our Newspapers in the form of Speeches in Congress or in a state Legislature would give you more fame than all your Diplomatic Labours. Foreign Embassies, however honourable, have a tendency to alienate a Man from his Country and his Country from him. Mr Otis and Mr Cooper have come forward in Elections, and have got the Start of your Brother who certainly stood before them in the public Opinion. However I believe either of them would be glad to change Places with him.\n          I am not acquainted with your Views, Prospects or Designs and cannot venture to advise you. But unless you can make some Advantage for yourself, by your Residence in Europe I cannot advise you to prolong it many Years. All I can Say with confidence is, that whenever you shall find it for your Interest or Convenience to return, you will be received with / Kindness and Joy by your affectionate Father\n            John Adams\n            Cujacius is arrived at N. York: but I have not seen it.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0166", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Charles Adams, 9 June 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, Charles\n            My dear Brother\n          I returned here ten days ago from England and have this day received your letter of April 24.th: brought by Mr: Rutgers. He is at Amsterdam, and when he comes this way it will give me much pleasure to see him.\n          It gives me the most heartfelt satisfaction to be informed of the prosperous situation in which you are placed; of your present happiness, and future pleasing prospects, and you will not doubt of having my warmest wishes, that your fairest hopes may be realized and exceeded. The pointed contrast in which you have so forcibly and so justly stated my present situation, is felt with peculiar poignancy, at a moment when I have very recently been compelled to make a painful sacrifice of my personal wishes and feelings to the duties of my station and its indigence. I wish not to dwell upon this subject, for as long as it is within my option, to quit the office that I hold, I have no right to complain of any hardships or inconveniences annexed to its possession, I shall probably before long take my determination accordingly. My patriotism is not very deeply concerned in the case. The station of Minister Resident at the Hague may be held, and its functions performed by hundreds of others as well as by me, and in remaining here at the expence of my domestic comforts I have not even the consolation to think that my Country will reap any benefit from my privations. But as a Minister Resident and at the same time a married man, I cannot possibly support expences of absolute necessity upon my present allowance. I have therefore postponed an event, which I most anxiously wish, until I can get fairly rid of the burden of official rank.\u2014 In the course of another year I hope to make such arrangements, as will enable me to return home and follow your good example.\n          In retiring from the service of the public, I shall of course abandon the subsistence it affords, and must determine upon some particular exertion of my Industry to procure a substitute for it; and the object requires the greater attention as my views will not be confined simply to my own support, but must be extended to that of a family. I shall return in all probability to my old profession, and endeavor to wear off as soon as possible the rust of disuse. But whether I shall again fix myself at Boston or attempt a settlement in a Southern State, remains for my future consideration. I have some\nreason for inclining at present towards the latter of these purposes, but as the occasion does not require precipitation, I shall come to my final conclusion at my liesure.\n          You have complimented me in very high terms upon the opinion entertained of my official correspondence, and I need not say that it gives me sincere pleasure to hear that it has met with approbation. In my opinion it is entitled to little more than the merit of good intentions, and my own conscience has invariably borne me ample testimony of them.\n          The apparent determination of the House of Representatives in Congress to refuse the execution of the British treaty, was known in England before my departure. It produced the effect intended by those who carried it through, that is, alienation, disgust and resentment among those people in England, who are the least unfriendly to us. It will produce doubtless another effect intended, and for which I believe the particular time was chosen for the Resolutions; I mean it will prevent the delivery of the forts. I am much mistaken if the measures that had taken place, just before the date of your letter, were not concerted expressly to answer this purpose.\n          That a dissolution of the Union would be the consequence of a war with Britain, I think is very probable, but the dissolution of the union is perhaps rather a subject of hope than of fear to those who are hurrying the Nation to its disgrace and calamity. If there be a frenchman who governs and conducts the party that now commands a majority, you may rest assured that neither he, nor those from whom he receives his impulse, have dispositions at all favourable to the American Union.\n          My sentiments I confess are widely different. All my hopes of national felicity and glory, have invariably been founded upon the continuance of the Union. I have cherished these hopes with so much fondness, they have so long been incorporated into my ideas of public concern, that I cannot abandon them without a pang, as keen as that of a dissolving soul and body. Much as I must disapprove of the general tenor of Southern politics, I would rather even yield to their unreasonable pretensions and suffer much for their wrongs, than break the chain that binds us alltogether. For there is no one article of my political creed more clearly demonstrated to my mind than this; that we shall proceed with gigantic strides to honour and consideration and National greatness, if the union is preserved, but that if it is once broken, we shall soon divide into a parcel of petty tribes at perpetual war with one another, swayed by rival European\npowers, whose policy will agree perfectly in the system of keeping us at variance with one another, and who will at the same time govern and despise the party they may respectively protect.\n          The state of American politics is far from being pleasant, but in comparison with those of Europe they are still promising. The french have indeed performed an uncommonly splendid campaign in Italy, whose princes throughout its whole extent are prostrate at the feet of the Republican Directory. Never was success more complete and unqualified than has hitherto attended them, and the Armies on the Rhine it is said are impatient to imitate their example. The armistice, which has subsisted these five months terminated on the first of this month. The hostilities have already been renewed and some slight actions have occurred already, which may be considered as the prelude of more important struggles. The french are said to be in great force upon the Rhine, and the Austrians have lately been obliged to weaken themselves to recruit the shattered remains of the Imperial force in Italy.\n          The commanders in chief of the last campaign on both sides have been removed, and the future Battles will be fought by Generals, who have yet a reputation to make.\n          In this Country the people are waiting with as much patience as the National character can bestow, to see how they are eventually to be disposed of by the contending parties. A National Assembly has been in session these three months, the principal object of which is the formation of a new Constitution for the Batavian people. They will if I conjecture right produce a very close imitation of the French example. Federalism is very much out of favour with them; nothing but one and indivisible can suit them.\n          In England the new parliament is to assemble in July. The Minister will have as large majorities to sanction his measures as he has had hitherto. He will probably not make peace even if the Emperor should. Proud in the sentiment of his superior naval force, he will set France at defiance, and contend the remainder of the day with her alone. The french on their part will point all their vengeance against Great Britain, and although far from being so terrible to an Island as to the powers on the continent acessible to the March of an Army, they will certainly be formidable foes even upon the Sea. The appearance of a speedy peace between the two Nations is far from being so probable as it was four months ago, though secret negotiations for the purpose may still be on foot.\n          A conspiracy against the french Government and Constitution\nwith the famous Drouet, at its head, has been discovered and defeated within these few weeks. The fluctuation between Jacobins and royalists still continues, and all that can very distinctly be ascertained is, that the present Government will not be much longer lived than its predecessors.\n          With my affectionate regards to Mrs: Adams, and our Sister Smith, I remain your brother.\n            P. S. I shall at any time be ready for your bill authorized by my letter of Novr. 4 last. I suppose that before this the course of exchange has risen above par. It is no wonder that bills were so low, for nearly 300,000 \u00a3 sterling have lately been protested in London, drawn by one company, upon a single speculation. When will our Countrymen learn to grasp at less, and embrace more?\n            I enclose you a short extract, which I think very curious from the uncommon force of its application to our own public affairs, at the present moment. I wish our political leaders would condescend to learn a little wisdom from the experience of others.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0167", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 10 June 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, Thomas Boylston\n            my Dear Thomas\n          A Neighbour of ours Captain Richard Beal is going this week to sail for England, and I do not know a more direct conveyance to you. the Communication between America and Holland is not half so frequent, as with England.\n          The last Letter which I had the pleasure to receive from you, was dated the 1 of December. Your Father has received two from you of a latter Date, but none Since December. From England I have had Letters to the 30 of March one in which your Brother informs me, that you had been exorcised with a Rhumatick complaint. I hope it did not amount to so severe and painfull a sickness as you experienced in Philadelphia. What a pang does it give to the Heart of an affectionate Mother, who knows too, by frequent experience how distressing the disorder is, to think of a Dear child labouring with pain & Sickness in a foreign Country, destitute of that fostering care and Maternal Solisitute, which would strive to raise the Drooping Head, and lift the pained Limb, and by every kind attention alleviate the languid hour. I hope you found Friends, kind and tender Friends, and that you did not experience what I have felt for you. I hope You will have Some less painfull inheritance than this to recollect your Parentage by, for I sufferd much previous to your Birth from this complaint, communicated it to you, and that without being myself relieved from it. it will always remain with us. you must obtain the best advise, and Gaurd yourself as well as you can, by care and precaution.\n          Our Friends here are all well. Quincy dinned with me on Sunday last, and kindly inquired after you. You will learn soon that mr King of the Senate is appointed Minister Plenipo to Saint James col Humphries to Spain, and mr C Gore of Boston commissoner on the part of the united states to adjust the claims on their part with Great Britain agreable to the Treaty. Mr Gore and Lady Saild a fortnight Since. mr Tudor is gone with them, in order to travell, an object he has long had at Heart. his curiosity will Doubtless lead him to visit Holland. if he should I am Sure both your Brother and you, will be disposed to shew him every attention not only as a Countryman, but from his own merrit, from Friendship and affection. I have ever entertaind a regard and attachment towards all those Gentlemen, who once formd a part of my Family, and who received their Education to the Law, from Your Father, but for none, who are now living, more than for mr Tudor.\n          The New Appointments will do honour to our Country, and what they lose in one Department they will gain in an other. these Gentleman are all personally known to you, but more so to your Brother. he will receive much pleasure and satisfaction from a free communication with them, and will find them bringing with them Sentiments more according with his own, and juster Ideas of Men & measures, than Some others of his Countrymen.\n          The Great Question respecting appropriations to carry the Treaty with Great Britain into Effect has finally been determined, after exciting the feelings and passions of the Nation, untill the people were about to rise \u201con Mass\u201d quietly however, and constitutionally by petitioning their Representitives to make the appropriations, that the Faith and honour of their Country might not be stained. they were going from all parts of the union, not however from any partial Love or Affection for G Britain, but for our National honour\n          The Debates in Congress were long and the Majority whilst it continued so, discoverd a Rancour, and very unbecomeing bitterness. for a long time they flatterd themselves that the people were with them. You never have on any occasion seen so general an anxiety, during this warmth of the publick Mind. two Days before the vote was taken, Mr Ames whose Health has been so much on the Decline, as to oblige him to Silence During the whole session was finally compeld by the importance of the Subject, to hazard his Life: in a Manly Eloquent speach, which did honour both to his Head and his Heart, it was Heard with Silent attention, by a most crouded Audience. it flowed like a stream fed by an abundent\nspring, and produced the effect which Lord Bolingbrooke says true Eloquence Does. it gives a Nobler superiority than power which every Dunce may use, or fraud that every Knave may employ. it contrasted with peculiar advantage with some of the Sophistical Harangues which Spouted forth like frothy water on some Gaudy Day, from some of the prateing Members of the opposition. Ames, like Lord Chatham in his last speach, by his particular situation interested all Hearts in his favour. they lookt upon him, as a Man Sacrificeing his last Breath, in support of the honour Faith and dignity of his Country. So great was the power of his plain and Manly eloquence & Pathos, that he melted his audience into Tears, and no American can read the speach without feeling the passions it was designd to move, and the Spirit it was designd to raise. \u201ceven Giles confessd, that whilst he was listning to it he forgot the Side he had espoused & the cause he had advocated\u201d\n          I presume your Brother has returnd to the Hague. it is the Station he has appeard to be best pleasd with. I wish he may not have Staid too long in England, for the Peac of his Mind and the tranquility of his Heart. from some hints in his last Letters, Cupid has now bent his Bow, nor misd his aim.\n            But who is free from Love?\n            All space he actuates like Almighty Jove!\n            He haunts us waking, haunts us in our dreams\n            With vigorous flight bursts through the cottage window\n            If we seek Shelter from his persecution\n            in the remotest corner of a Forest\n            We there elude not his persuit, for there\n            \u201cWith Eagle wing he overtakes his Prey\u201d\n          I hope however my Dear Thomas you will be proof against his Shafts untill you return to your Native Land, and then chuse a wife whose habits tastes & sentiments are calculated for the Meridian of your own Country. may your choice be productive of happiness to yourself, and then it cannot fail to give pleasure to your ever affectionate / Mother", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0168", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson, 17 June 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Johnson, Louisa Catherine\n          I have just received from my good friend Hall, a Letter of the 8th: instt: which is precious to me not only as it comes from him, but because it gives me the information that you were well. He delights in giving pleasure to his friends, and he knows very well how to do it; for his letter speaks of you, as you deserve, and that could not fail of giving the highest gratification to me.\n          The violent storm that blew two days after that of my departure from London, had occasioned as he mentions some anxiety on my account. You had your share of it I readily believe, but I hope and trust you exercised and discovered the species of Fortitude, of which we have often conversed: not precisely what you mean by Philosophy, but a certain strength of mind, which improves and adorns even female sensibility without diminishing its force.\n          I know not to what philosophy I can reconcile, what I certainly cannot deny, an involuntary satisfaction which I felt upon being informed that my friends were anxious on my account. As I know that anxiety is an uneasy sentiment I ought to wish that it had not been felt by those I love, and especially that I had not been the cause; but it is a proof of regard, and a selfish feeling is gratified with the proof, without perhaps weighing sufficiently the uneasiness. I am\nwilling to believe too that the pleasure anticipated from the news of my safety, and the idea of your anxiety being relieved by it had a great share in forming my pleasant sensations, and I am sure that the greatest part of my pleasure arose from hearing that you, and all the family were so recently well.\n          I had in fact just got into a harbour where the vessel could lay safely at Anchor when that little hurricane came on; and although I could not get on shore, I could with the same degree of security hear the winds whistle and the tempests roar, as if I had been on the firmest ground. The rage of the winds had therefore no other operation upon me, than to keep me one day longer upon my voyage, and I hope that before this time you have received my letter announcing my arrival here three days after I left London.\n          Mr: Hull told me that he would deliver the miniature, in a fortnight at latest after the time when I came away. If he has been as good as his word you have it ere now. I have a curiosity to know whether it meets your approbation. The likeness cannot I think be mistaken. Mr: Hull in his Execution wants a little assistance from the Graces, but in this instance, that deficiency, became a capital qualification.\n          I am at this moment looking at Mr: Birch\u2019s young lady, and using all my little eloquence to sollicit a smile from her countenance. It has indeed become one of my favourite occupations. Hitherto she continues inexorable, and seems to tell me, that she knows her power and is sure to please me let her look how she will. So I shall resign the hope of a perpetual smile from the image, and comfort myself with the hope of an occasional one from the original.\n          Farewell. Remember me with respect and affection to your Pappa and Mamma, and to your Sisters.\u2014 I live yet in hope of hearing soon from you directly, and remain ever faithfully your\u2019s", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0169", "content": "Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to John Adams, 24 June 1796\nFrom: Adams, Thomas Boylston\nTo: Adams, John\n          Upon my file of unacknowledged letters, I find three from you, the last of which is of the 7th: April and came to hand on the 21st: instt. The other two are of the 19 September and 13 December of the past year; and were received at a time when the state of my health rendered both mental and bodily exertion almost impossible to me. From the beginning of the last winter until very late in the Spring this painful situation continued, and excepting an intermission of two or three weeks, which proved to be only a transition from one violent disorder to another, I was rendered incapable of paying attention to every sort of business. My public correspondence was dropped and the casual business incident to my station was necessarily postponed, so that when I began to recover my health and to examine the calls upon my immediate attention, they were found too multiplied even to admit a thought of answering my private correspondents.\n          I had completed only a part of my labor, when the return of my Brother from England relieved me from my post. His dexterity in the dispatch of business has already made up my deficiency, and enables me to renew my private intercourse with my friends, from whom I fear so long negligence has too much estranged me.\n          It is to you Sir, and my Mother that I owe an apology, not dictated by formality but inspired by the most lively regret, that my calamity should be increased by the reflection, that the cause of my inattention towards you might bear an interpretation very different from the reality. I trust however that parental indulgence, however it may have been put to the test, will be satisfied with the assurance that my apparent apostacy from filial love and attachment, did not arise from voluntary omission.\n          Having paid this tribute to my feelings, with which my mind has labored for some time past, I shall only add a promise to repair by frequent communications in future the breach which so reproachingly stares me in the face.\n          I have accounted to the Secretary of State for the interruption of my correspondence with his Department. I know not that the public service has suffered in consequence of it, but the interesting period in this Country\u2019s affairs, which occurred during my illness, made\nme anxious to transmit the earliest intelligence of events preparatory and subsequent to the change of Government which was effecting here. To that point I bent my efforts, and my two letters towards the last of february, were written with a hand nearly unnerved by the Rheumatism, and very soon after I was obliged to cease writing altogether. I was able nevertheless to assist at the ceremony of the dissolution of the States General and the organization of the National Assembly. It was a spectacle in which I must confess I took no small share of interest, and the manner in which it was conducted gave me a very favorable opinion of Dutch decorum. The enthusiastic fervor, which has been so remarkable, for producing movements of violence & tumult, in french popular assemblies, is not an appendage of the Batavian character, and though on this occasion, a little excentricity might have been excusable, the consecration of the National Assembly was conducted with a solemnity equal to that which prevails in a new England Meeting house at the ordination of a Minister. A few sallies of applause, which were indulged by the attendant spectators, were checked at once by an open appeal to order, which has never since been infringed.\n          Your letter of April 7th: observes that you had read my dispatches as Charg\u00e9 d\u2019affaires, with much satisfaction. I appreciate this commendation, or as my Brother styles it, approval, at its true value, but without affectation I may be permitted to add a wish, that they had been more worthy of your perusal and of the Officer to whom they were addressed. If they have justified the opinion, which induced the Government to leave the charge of the affairs of the United States here, in my hands, during the absence of my brother, it is all that I can hope, and more than I had permitted myself to anticipate from them.\n          Previous to my illness, I had written only two letters to the Treasury Department; the vessels on board of which they were sent were delayed, nearly three months after their intended departure, by accidents, which happened to them after having put to Sea, & which obliged their return into port. The arrival of one of them is however announced in the American papers, but I presume it must have been after the date of your letter.\n          The affairs of that Department were in such a train at the date of my last letter, as not to demand very frequent communications. I should nevertheless have continued to write, if I had been able, but I hope what I did write, will exculpate me from the charge of absolute neglect.\n          Vessels going from this Country to the United States are so frequently captured by the British, that letters meet unusual delay in reaching their destination, if they are not actually retained as lawful prize. The contraband information however, contained in mine, will be found comparatively small. The Island itself furnishes the largest supply of materials for the manufacture of that article; and if I mistake not, no small portion of it has been thence exported.\n          Several of your last letters remind me, that the period of my absence, as originally fixed before my departure from America, is nearly expired. This circumstance has not escaped my attention, and an explanation of my future views would have been given you at an earlier day, had my resolution been finally taken upon the subject of my return: It is only since the return of my Brother from England, that I have come to a determination in this respect, and I shall communicate it to you with more confidence, as it has the sanction of his counsel and approbation.\n          While my brother was yet in London, and waiting for permission to return to this place, it occurred to me, that the delay which those orders experienced in reaching him, could not be altogether attributable to accident; Mr: Pinckney had arrived at London in January, and his return of course left my Brother without a further object for his stay; but as he did not feel himself at liberty to depart thence unless specially authorised to that effect, it was not an unnatural conclusion at the expiration of three months suspense, that the intention of the Government with respect to him was not to direct his return to the Hague. Some other path might also have been marked out for the employment of his services, in which case another person would have probably been appointed to the station he held here. In the interval, I might have been continued as Charg\u00e9 d\u2019affaires, to be released upon the arrival of a new Minister.\n          Under the impression that some such arrangement as this was in comtemplation, I wrote to my brother towards the last of April, and exposed to him fully the conduct, which I had resolved to pursue in case of its being realized. I could not but consider my appointment as Charg\u00e9 d\u2019affaires during his absence, as having been altogether fortuitous, and however flattering to myself the confidence, which conferred it upon me, I was persuaded that a proper regard to the public service would not suffer the Office of Minister to be long vacant; if however my brother had not returned, nor any person had been appointed in his stead, my resolution was already formed to ask my dismission as soon as possible, both upon motives of a\npersonal and private nature, as also upon a conviction, that I should thereby best acquit myself of a public responsibility, which I felt to be much above my powers.\n          The necessity of making this request is now done away by my brother\u2019s return, and it may be unnecessary to add, that should he again be removed, within the term which I purpose to remain in Europe, that circumstances will of course determine me to abridge it. As I embarked with him upon his mission here, I shall consider the event which terminates that, as an effectual discharge of every obligation to continue here, and my inclination will certainly not frustrate my intention to return home.\n          It appears to be the design of my Brother to remain here one year longer, & then to adopt any course which he shall deem most expedient for his future pursuit. He thinks that this period may be profitably employed both by himself and me in our relative situations, and though the business of a Secretary is somewhat of a drudgery, it may not be altogether without its use. In this sentiment I concur, and having familiarized myself with its functions, it has become less irksome to me than it was at the commencement. The benefit of my Brother\u2019s Society is not among the least to be derived from a continuance with him, and though in other respects there are very few inducements for residing here, I am willing to suspend my departure for some months longer, not however exceeding the space of another year.\n          Professional pursuits have necessisarily undergone an interruption, since my absence, greater than I could have wished, and of course it will take some time to renew my acquaintance after my return, so as to resume a station at the Bar. My purpose of doing this, has encountered no obstacles to its execution from any prospects that have hitherto presented themselves to my mind in Europe; indeed it has rather been confirmed by a conviction, that the chance of an improvement of that condition is not to be looked for here. When nearly half of the people of this Country are looking towards ours as a contemplated refuge from the oppression under which they are groaning, and the term of whose continuance is not readily foreseen, it may be well imagined that a native American is not in a situation to form projects of advantageous intercourse with any people so well as his own Countrymen. I shall return with this impression, not a littled strengthened, from having seen Europe at this time.\n          The critical period in American politics is not yet past, although\nsome of the means which our enemies, external & internal have employed to disturb our tranquility have proved hitherto unsuccessful. \u201cA bloody and shameless democracy\u201d is still at work among us, and its champions are wonderfully dextrous at expedient. I fear that their opponents in general have not sufficient foresight to contend successfully with them. It is some consolation to me that I have not been obliged to hear the roaring of the storm during its greatest violence; before my return I hope it will have in a degree subsided.\n          I am with unalterable respect & attachment, Dear Sir, / your Son\n            Thomas B Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0172", "content": "Title: Louisa Catherine Johnson to John Quincy Adams, 4 July 1796\nFrom: Johnson, Louisa Catherine\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          So totally incapacitated do I feel myself for writing were it not through fear of giving you pain I certainly shou\u2019d indulge my avowed aversion to it and decline the task but judging of your feelings by my own think it incumbent on me to avail myself of every opportunity of testifying my affectionate esteem for you I yesterday received yours of the 17 instant in which you desire my opinion of your Picture I approve the likeness tho\u2019 the complexion is much too dark and the figure altogether too large I have lately been introduced to a Mr. & Mrs: Gore of Boston who say they shou\u2019d never have known it but I cannot allow them to be such competent judges as myself who finds the original too deeply engraven on my heart to admit of a mistake in the likeness Oh Philosophy where art thou\nnow without thy aid my present sensations will carry me beyond myself and far exceed the limits of my Paper. I will therefore quit this subject.\u2014 I am told it is very probable your Father will be the next President shou\u2019d that be the case I shall with sincere pleasure offer you my congratulations. You know my friend I am not ambitious of any thing but your affection and in that my wishes are unbounded\n          Mama and Sisters unite in best wishes for your health and happiness for my own I leave you to imagine\u2014\n            Louisa Catherine Johnson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0173", "content": "Title: Joshua Johnson to John Quincy Adams, 5 July 1796\nFrom: Johnson, Joshua\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          Your favor of the 2d of last Month never came to hand until the 27th. in course I could not but entertain fears that some accident had befallen you or that something was the cause of your silence, the receit of this removed those fears & give us much pleasure in finding you were safe & well\u2014 Since you left us Mr. Gore one of the Commissionrs for the adjustment of Captured property has arrived, from him I understand that the conduct of the Majority of Congress is highly approved by the People at large & that all opposition is now likely to dwindle away, altho I am not an advocate for giving the Executive two much Power yet a sufficiency should be placed in their hands to compel the refractory to adhear to the Laws of the Country\u2014 It is said here with confidence that the President retires in March, his successor is not determined on tho the choice will fall either on your Father or Mr. Jefferson\u2014 I have recved several Letters from Mr. Bourne since his return from Paris in which he expresses his doubts whether he shall be able to leave Europe this Year or not, if he finds so many difficulties in winding up his affairs what must mine be, it is true that I have bent my attention to that end for some Years back & thought that I had nearly accomplished my wishes, but do what I will their is eternally something or other turning up which prevents my departure,\u2014\n          I will with pleasure inform Mr. Hall of all direct opportunities offering to Holland, he Supped with us last Night & I informed him of this & requested his Packetts in time\n          I have taken a lodgeing at Clapham & the greater part of the Family is their, indeed I have only Mrs. Johnson, Nancy & Carolina at home, they were all very well last Night & Joined with those at home in Affections Compliments to you\u2014 Under cover you will find Seven letters for yourself & one for your Brother to whom you will deliver it with my Compliments\u2014 I am still tormentd with my Indian Chief she goes down I hope this Day, after She is away I shall have more leasure & you shall hear frequently from my. Dear Sir / Your assurd Friend\n            Joshua Johnson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0174", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson, 9 July 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Johnson, Louisa Catherine\n          I have just received your letter of the 28th: of last month, and though I have not yet read it more than ten or fifteen times, I take the very first moment I have, to reply. I judge of your sentiments from my own, and conclude, that I shall run no risk of writing too often.\u2014 Perhaps in this I am mistaken. Perhaps with your aversion to writing, and the ILL-NATURE that the very thought of it inspires, the trouble of answering a letter is more than sufficient to counterbalance the pleasure of receiving it.\u2014 But the aversion, and the ill-nature are both things that deserve so little indulgence, that I shall not consult them at-all. On the contrary I shall continue to write as often as possible, and as out of mere civility you cannot avoid writing a particular answer to every letter, I hope you will soon totally conquer the aversion, forget altogether the ill nature, and on the contrary take a pleasure in writing to your friend, corresponding if not equal to that which he feels in writing to you.\u2014 It is possible indeed that for some time you will claim the privilege of making your letters short, and I shall have to comfort myself with the reflection that a little is better than none. But the disposition will not last\nlong, and when the habit of writing is once formed you will find it impossible to sit down and write without giving me at least the sheet-full. Instead of being compelled to write you will take a delight in it: instead of being dissatisfied with yourself and every body, you will find your spirits cheering at every line you commit to the paper, and after it is full, the strings of the Harp, will yield a softer sound, a clearer tone and nicer taste will warble from the voice, and every body around you will share a smile more than usually kind and cheerful.\u2014 If you think this description promises too much, only try the experiment with a determination to succeed, and I will warrant its final success.\n          I speak with the more confidence, because I am now more convinced than ever that your aversion is unreasonable.\u2014 Indeed aversion is not its proper name. The real cause is unquestionably \u2026 no. I will not say what it is. The mildest appellation that can be given to it would contain a censure, which my heart refuses to believe, and my pen to write. The only fault I can find with your letter is its shortness. Instead of wishing you had not answered me, I only wish you had answered three times as much; but even for what you did write I thank you over and over again. It is not destitute of elegance, but it has what is a thousand times more precious to me, the assurance of your constant affection.\n          You were afraid of looking at my picture, lest you should meet with a frown.\u2014 As I was obliged to leave it unfinished, I can hardly tell how it looks, but Mr: Hull promised me that it should be very pleasant; which I strongly recommended. If it partakes of the feelings of its original, I am sure it will be ashamed to frown upon you, or upon your sister Nancy. If it were to undertake to express my affection for you, or my regard for her, I readily believe indeed that in that case, it would find the sentiments altogether unspeakable. They are beyond the reach of any expression that can be given to the pencil the pen or the tongue.\n          The unpleasantness of my situation gives you satisfaction.\u2014 After having told you in my last Letter, that I had been pleased to hear that you had suffered anxiety on my account, I cannot with a good grace complain that there is more selfishness than kindness in your wishes that I may find it intolerable. It would be far from that if it did not necessarily separate me from you; and as long as this necessity continues, no situation whatever can be agreeable to me. No stimulus will be necessary to hasten our meeting, further than that of my own impatience, and as I can never be happy far from you, it\nis a consolation to have the assurance that you partake the same sentiment.\n          You will not suppose that after the Society that I enjoyed while in London, I could take much delight in any that I could find here, even if it were more extensive and more brilliant than it is. I see very little of it accordingly. But I feel no other tediousness than that of being absent from you. I endeavour to make up in application to my proper business and the studies to which my situation directs me, for the pleasures of which I am deprived.\u2014 I have indeed, I speak it to my shame and confusion degenerated again to my old barbarism in the Article of dress.\u2014 I believe the taylor and the dancing-master must give me up, as a man of whom nothing can be made.\n          While I was writing this last sentence, a packet was brought me, containing your letter of the 4th: instt:\u2014your aversion to writing again!\u2014but I will say no more on that subject.\u2014 This second letter is even more charming than the former one \u2026 I am sure if you will only have the resolution to practice a little, you will form a really elegant style. I am no friend to hereditary honours, but am a great partizan for hereditary virtues and talents. With such an example of epistolary writing as you have in your Mamma, it would be unpardonable altogether, in you not to write with elegance; and with your understanding, it would be entirely owing to yourself if you should not.\n          I am happy to hear you have been introduced to Mr: & Mrs: Gore, for whom I entertain a great friendship and respect.\u2014 Perhaps the reason of their not discovering a likeness in the Picture may be attributed to an alteration in my looks since they saw me. I believe your judgment on this article may be deemed rather more accurate than theirs.\n          You tell me you are not ambitious, but will offer me your congratulations, if my father should be placed at the head of the American Government. Indeed my friend that is an high station, but I have no Ambition to see him placed in it. For like all other high stations it is planted with thorns and surrounded with dangers. Besides, the more conspicuous he becomes in the world, the more incumbent it will be upon me to prove myself not unworthy to be his son: I have already an heavy burthen on that account to bear, and do not wish to see it encreased. For myself I am not ambitious of rank, but it is impossible to be indifferent on the point of reputation.\n          I must not be unworthy of my father or of my Country. That Country is not esteemed at its true value by the English People. But even there the qualities which are destined to make the American\nNation one of the first upon Earth, will produce their effect in time. I will never lose any of the character which will distinguish the Nation, and as far as may ever be in my power I will strive to promote it. I speak to you with entire confidence because whatever my conduct or my fate may be your interests, are now united to mine, to be separated only by Death.\n          I received under the same cover with your letter, one from my mother dated May 20th: from which the following is an extract. \u201cThe Cloaks came safe to hand. Mr: Gardner paid particular attention to them. I am much pleased with mine, and so is Louisa with hers. The young Lady who undertook the commission, shews that she inherits the taste of Elegance which her Mamma is conspicuous for. Present my compliments to both, and thank them for me, and tell them that Mr: T. B. Johnson was very well last week, when I received a very polite card from him, in reply to an invitation which I had sent him to dine with me on a particular day.\u201d\n          You have no aversion to reading letters, I know, but perhaps the length of this will put your Patience to the test. I will only add my affectionate remembrance to your Mamma and Sisters, with every Sentiment of the tenderest attachment to yourself, from your ever faithful friend", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0175", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Quincy Adams, 11 July 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          This is the Aniversary of the Birth which of that Day when as the poet expresses it,\n            [\u201c]To Me a Son was given\n            Such as in fondness, Parents ask of Heaven.\u201d\n          We have in commemoration of it Drank the Health of the American Minister at the Hague nor did we forget to Breathe a fervent petition to Heaven for a perfect restoration of the Health of his equally beloved Brother. I am Maternal Heart of is pained &\ndistresst to hear of the repeated Sickness of my Dear Thomas. I long yet almost fear to receive a Letter. the climate I apprehend is unfavourable to his constitution. he must return Home. When You take to yourself this Lady, whom you still leave in the clouds to me You will not have occasion for your Brothers Society as you have Done you give Me Hints only. Yes you plainly tell Me in your Last letter May 12, that you are bethrothd, but you leave me to the wide Feild of conjecture, where to fix.\n          My own imagination has carried Me to the Family of Mr Johnson. as I have before related to You, I approve of the Young Ladys discretition in sending You to the Hague without her. you should learn to accumulate some solid property before You take upon you the charge of a Family. You are certainly old enough. Your Father was marrid nine Days Younger than you now are, but the Scene before him was a very different one from that which presents itself to you. the Drama opend an arduous strugle at the Bar for the Support of a Family were all his expectations. as he rose soon to Eminence in that profession, I have not a Doubt that if he had continued it for half the term of years which Since have been solely devoted to the publick service, his Property would have been three times what it now is; but the commencement of the Revolution call\u2019d him to the counsels of his Country. the drama opend, and the important parts in which he has been calld to act, are all known to You, but to no other Man of your Age. Military Services make a greater eclat in the world, but no citizen has deserved better of his Country than he to whom\u2014 She has given him her confidence she has given him her Honours, but she has not given him wealth believing perhaps with Petrarch, that [\u201c]Virtue has not a greater Enemy than Wealth.\u201d the inheritance of his Children must be his virtues of Much greater estimation to them than the mines of Mexico or peru without them.\n          You all My Dear Sons are placed in a conspicuous view, with minds and faculties capable of rising to Eminence. Virtuously Educated, well Principald, you must endeavour", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0176", "content": "Title: Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody to Abigail Adams, 23 July 1796\nFrom: Peabody, Elizabeth Smith Shaw\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dear Sister\u2014\n          Your kind invitations would have induced Mr Peabody to have visited you at Quincy had it not now been in the midst of making hay, & the expectation he has of finding his Son in Boston, & taking him home with him in the Chaise\u2014 He thinks it will be making a toil of what he should esteem a pleasure, for he could not get back with any comfort a commencement week\u2014 If I am well we hope to make you a visit in the Fall, our Boarders term will then be out, & several of them will leave us\u2014 It is not convenient, nor expedient to leave a very large Family you well know, I did not intend to have had one again\u2014but they are so solicitous to come into this family that it is hard denying them\u2014 Mr Peabody is so much the patron of this accademy, that he will take boarders I fear to his prejudice\u2014 He has no house, nor maid extraordinary to hire, if he had he could not board them so low\u2014 When I feel tired of the work, I compose myself, with thinking we must all do something for a living, that we were not born for ourselves, that the accademy is of real utillity, & that my Family had all rather toil, than spin\u2014though I think Betsy had better learn, & to cook, & do all kinds of business\u2014 Our knowledge of house hold affairs never injured us\u2014 I know it is pleasanter to set & sew, than to bustle in the cares of a family\u2014but what would become of yours if you were not to rise out of your chair only at meal times\u2014or what would become of our Children if they did not have our constant care, & attention\u2014\n          We have got two very pretty young Ladies\u2014from Exeter, Judge Peabody\u2019s & Mr Deans daughter\u2014they are company for Betsy Quincy, They go to the accademy, & to dancing\u2014 William I fear will not be able to reap much advantage from a dancing master\u2014 He must endeavour to derive all he can from observation of those who are esteemed the easiest, & most polite in their manners\u2014 I have written to him respecting his hand writing. I think he is too careless It is a very necessary & useful accomplishment.\u2014 Youth should always covet the best gifts, & strive to excell\u2014\n          I hope William will behave well\u2014there are so many temptations to lead the thoughtless & unwary astray, that I tremble for him\u2014many a lovely youth has been ruined\u2014 But all are not safe at maturer years\u2014 His Cousin J. S. conduct is too attrocious to admit of an\nexcuse. I do not wonder that milton says, when Sin was introduced, into the world, that all nature gave a groan\u2014 What havock does it make\u2014\n            \u201cO! Virtue peace is all thy own\u201d\n          I intended to have written to Sister Cranch & Cousin Betsy but I have not time\u2014 We have no boy, & I am obliged to keep about house. Lydia is not very strong & Miss Polly is gone a great deal, & Betsy must go to School, for I do not mean to cheat her of her learning\u2014 It discourages them if they are absent\u2014\n          Betsy desires her uncle, & you would accept of her duty & most grateful acknowledgments for all your kindness\u2014 Full of the same sentiments of gratitude, I subscribe myself your affectionate / Sister\n            Elizabeth Peabody.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0177", "content": "Title: Louisa Catherine Johnson to John Quincy Adams, 24 July 1796\nFrom: Johnson, Louisa Catherine\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          How shall I express my impatient anxiety at not hearing from you, five tedious weeks have elapsed without a line to say you are well or that I still retain a place in your remembrance\u2014 I learn continually the arrival of the Mails, consiquently am alarmed at your silence\u2014 Absence I have often heard is dangerous, were I to judge solely from\nmy own feelings I should say that little was to be feared, conscious that it strengthens rather than weakens real affection. Alas at this moment I feel an aching void which only a letter from you can remove\u2014 You have frequently endeavoured to teach me fortitude, I knew not then how much I should need it and find though I listened to the Teacher I lost the lessons\u2014 Would you were here now I think I should be more attentive, yet I sincerely hope never to see you again with a probability of parting I could now say much but must suppress my thoughts\u2014\n          Pray let me hear from you as often as possible, in the interim and during life Believe me / Yours Affectionately\n            Louisa Catherine Johnson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0180", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Abigail Adams Smith, 31 July 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Smith, Abigail Adams\n            My dear Sister.\n          I received a few days ago your letter of April 27th: which was forwarded to me from London. My stay there was much longer than I had expected when I went from this place. I returned here about two months ago.\n          The time when you wrote was indeed a critical moment in the state of our political affairs. I was before I came from England witness to the effect produced there by the resolutions past in the House of Representatives in Congress, and which led to an expectation that a resolve to violate the treaty by a refusal to provide for its execution would soon follow; nor am I at all surprised that the general opinion in America was that such a resolve would have produced a war between the two Countries. I have no doubt myself but it would; not perhaps an immediate declaration; but the western posts would have been kept, no indemnity for past depredations would have been procured, and much greater and more extensive ones would have ensued; in the irritated state of the public mind in America, there is no doubt but that such circumstances would very soon have\nproduced a war, in which our commerce must have shared the fate experienced now by that of France and Holland, and in which we should not have had like France an opportunity to console ourselves for the total ruin and annihilation of our trade by the splendor of victory and conquest by land. We should have lost the blessings of peace, without being compensated by the trophies of war.\n          But soon after you wrote, the resolve of the house to make the necessary appropriations made a total alteration in the aspect of our affairs. It restored that confidence in the good faith of the United States, which had been very much suspended for a number of months past; it induced a general expectation that we should preserve our Neutral policy through the whole war, and revived the credit, which had in some degree been affected by the previous occurrences since the last summer.\n          I am very sorry to learn that Coll: Smith has suffered so much in his property as you mention by the depredations of the British. Their conduct has indeed been such in many instances as makes it difficult to restrain our resentment within the bounds of discretion. When we suffer injustice we can seldom prevail upon ourselves to reflect that the misfortune proceeded from the inevitable nature of things, and those who enjoy the benefits of Neutrality in a time of Maritime war, cannot be indemnified for the particular and individual losses, either by the general prosperity of the Country or by the consideration that partial depredations have universally been inseparable, from a state of things, which while it encreases and extends the pacific trade of neutrality, necessarily subjects it to the examination of the armed vessels of both parties.\u2014I sincerely hope however, that you will have no vicissitude of fortune to regret; though I do not imagine that in your opinion the happiness of our lives depends upon splendid wealth, yet I am fully sensible that it is painful to reduce the scale of enjoyments to which we have been accustomed.\n          I had the pleasure of seeing frequently while I was in England your friend Mrs: Copley and her family. Her son has I suppose already returned or soon will from America. The whole family of Mr: Johnson always speak of you in the most friendly and affectionate terms. They have been these two or three years preparing to go to America, but have not yet been able to get away from England, they still expect to go this Summer or the next, but I am still doubtful whether they will not wait yet another year. The ladies are not so good sailors as you are.\n          Our brother Thomas is well, though while I was absent, he had a very severe seasoning to the climate of this Country.\n          Remember me kindly to the Coll: and your children, and believe me to be with the sincerest affection your brother.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0181", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson, 6 August 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Johnson, Louisa Catherine\n          I have just received my lovely friend, your letters of the 24th: and 25th: of last month. I perceive by the former that my long letter of the 9th: had not reached you. I have hitherto written by vessels going directly from this Country to England, supposing that would be the shortest conveyance; but I believe after all the packet from Hamburg is the safest. I will in future write you by that way too. I readily believe your impatience to hear from me, for I have felt all the force of the same sentiment myself.\u2014 But never suffer an idea for a moment to enter your mind, that it is possible absence can erase your remembrance from my heart or weaken the affection it feels for you\u2014No, my best friend; to you it is devoted; from you all its hopes of domestic happiness in this life are derived, and while it laments the absence to which we are at this moment condemned, it hopes it will not continue long, and rejoyces in the flattering anticipation that you will soon partake of all its pleasures, and alleviate all its cares.\n          I am persuaded it will give you pleasure to know, that your letter of the 25th: was the first to announce me the new appointment with which I am honoured by the Government of the United States. Among many which came together, from my father, from my mother, from the American Secretary of State, from several other friends, In short from all whom I most love and revere on Earth, yours was of course the first to draw my attention and perusal, so that the official Letter itself giving me notice of the appointment, only confirmed the information which your\u2019s had given me already.\n          I have just received my lovely friend, your letters of the 24th: and 25th: of last month. I perceive by the former that my long letter of the 9th: had not reached you. I have hitherto written by vessels going directly from this Country to England, supposing that would be the shortest conveyance; but I believe after all the packet from Hamburg is the safest. I will in future write you by that way too. I readily believe your impatience to hear from me, for I have felt all the force of the same sentiment myself.\u2014 But never suffer an idea for a moment to enter your mind, that it is possible absence can erase your remembrance from my heart or weaken the affection it feels for you\u2014 No, my best friend; to you it is devoted; from you all its hopes of domestic happiness in this life are derived, and while it laments the absence to which we are at this moment condemned, it hopes it will not continue long, and rejoyces in the flattering anticipation that you will soon partake of all its pleasures, and alleviate all its cares.\n          I am persuaded it will give you pleasure to know, that your letter of the 25th: was the first to announce me the new appointment with which I am honoured by the Government of the United States. Among many which came together, from my father, from my mother, from the American Secretary of State, from several other friends, in short from all whom I most love and revere on Earth, yours was of course the first to draw my attention and perusal, so that the official Letter itself giving me notice of the appointment, only confirmed the information which your\u2019s had given me already.\n          I shall write you soon again, but in order to ensure the conveyance by which I send this letter, I have only time to tell you now, that with the notice of my new destination, I am ordered to remain here in my present character, untill I shall receive further advices.\nCertain circumstances make it probable that I shall not be directed to proceed on the new mission for several months to come, and I know not what my orders may be as to the course I am to take. At present I know not of any thing that will prevent me from taking London in my way; and as little as I like that place, I shall anxiously wish to see it once more for the sake of taking you as the companion for the remainder of the Journey or Voyage, and of my life.\u2014 I shall inform you as soon as possible, if my Instructions permit me to come to you, as I most ardently hope, and am inclined to believe they will, though it is probable as I observed before that I shall be still detained here untill the Winter or perhaps the Spring ensuing.\n          I mention these circumstances to you in the most perfect and exclusive confidence.\u2014 Some People say the Ladies cannot keep secrets; but I am convinced the observation does not apply to you.\u2014 You will be sensible that when I communicate to you particulars of orders from my Government, I am justified only by the full conviction that it is for you alone that the information can be intended.\n          Farewell my ever dear and amiable friend. I shall soon write you more at length: in the mean time remember me affectionately to your Pappa and Mamma, and Sisters, and be assured of the unceasing and unabating attachment of your friend.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0184", "content": "Title: Charles Adams to Abigail Adams, 8 August 1796\nFrom: Adams, Charles\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My dear Mother\n          This morning about one o\u2019clock My Sally presented me with a charming daughter They are both remarkably well I must insist on your naming the Child which will perhaps be christened at Quincy\n          Yours with the sincerest affection\n            NB. My Respects to my father\u2014", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0185", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Quincy Adams, 10 August 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n            Quincy August 10th 1796\n          Since the date of my last July 11th I have received an Authentic account of Your appointment as Minister Plenipo. to the Court of Portugal. it was the last nomination which the President made, before the rising of Congress, and took place after your Father came home, without its ever being hinted to him. the appointment was agreed to as mr otis informs me, unanimously by the Senate. this is an additional proof of the confidence which Your Country reposes in You; and of the approbation of the President, who has thus honourd, and promoted You.\n          You will feel it a new incentive to discharge with fidelity the important trusts committed to You and to continue to deserve well of Your Country. I suppose mr King carried out Your commission and instructions.\n          The engagements You made in London will lead You no Doubt to go theither, on Your Way to Portugal this new appointment my Dear Son has filld my Mind with a thousand anxieties on Your account. Will the Parents of the Young Lady think it adviseable for their Daughter, at so early an Age, without any knowledge or experience of the World, to be introduced into the Manners Luxeries dissapations and amusements of a foreign Court,? placed in an elevated Station, with examples before her Eyes of a Stile of living altogether incompatable with her future views and prospects in America? She has no Doubt been reard and Fosterd under the Eyes of kind and indulgent Parents, who have given her a Virtuous Education, taught her to Love the Domestic virtues, and at the Same time accomplishd her in Musick Dancing French &c I conceive the Young Lady to be accomplishd both in Mind and person not unfit to grace a Court, but the Question is thus accomplishd: is there not great Danger of her contracting such inclinations, and habits as to endanger her Youth and inexperience, as to unfit her for the discharge\nof those Domestic Duties, which cement the union of Hearts, and give it its Sweetest pleasures.\n          You know upon what an unstable foundation all the honours and promotion, in our Country rests. You know how inaddequate the allowence to an American Minister is, when compared with those of other Countries, of the same Rank, and You know, what Your prospects are when you return to America. if you were to bring Me Home a Daughter, she would be comeing to the Land of her Fathers Nativity, and would probably form no higher expectations than you might find the means of gratifying. She would assimilate herself to our Manners to our customs and our habits, which she would find so similar to those in which it is probable she has been Educated, that the Change might not be painfull to her. but who can answer for her after having been introduced into the dissipations of a foreign Court?\n          You have seen sufficient of the world to think soberly of these things, and to say with Ulysses\n            In pomps or Joys, the palace or the Grot\n            My Countrys Image never was forgot\n          and o may you add\n            \u201cMy absent Parents rose before my sight\n            And distant lay Contentment and delight\u201d\n          What the Changes may be in this Country at the approaching Election is more than I am able say one thing I can say with certainty, that you can neither hope or expect to find at the Head of the Government any Man who will do so much to promote you, as the President of the United States has Done. I sometimes think that your early promotion is in Some measure oweing to that Idea, as well as a desire to reward those abilities which have distinguishd Your late Mission\u2014\n          our Country appears all tranquility. Providence is loading the Earth with Bounties a more plentifull Season was never known. may our Hearts be filled with Gratitude. we have Health in our borders, and peace in our dwellings.\n          I inclose You a scrip of the last weeks Paper that you may see, the Treaty is like to be complied with by the British so far as respects the Evacuation of the Forts.\n          I heard from N York a fortnight Since. they were all well. Charles expected Dayly to be a Father\n          Not a line of a later Date from my Dear Thomas than 1 of last December. my Heart sinks like a stone when I think of him, poor Dear soul, so sick, so far from Home. your last letter of May 12 informd me that you heard from him 28 April. this was a consolation to your anxious and ever affectionate / Mother", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0186", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson, 13 August 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Johnson, Louisa Catherine\n          I hope my amiable friend has before this received my letters of the 9th: of last month, and of the 6th of the present; and that all her doubts, if doubts she really had, whether she still retained all her Empire over my affections have vanished into thin air. Though there was a letter which must have reached her very shortly after the impatient anxiety which she expresses in her letter of July 24th: it is possible that I might have indulged yet more frequently than I have, the inclination which I always feel to converse with her, but for the repeated hints of her aversion to writing contained in her preceding letters.\u2014 Yes! let me freely own, that I have more than once sat myself down to my table, and taken up the pen to give you my sentiments \u201cwarm from the soul and faithful to its fires.\u201d But the reflection has occurred, that you hated writing, and that even the assurance of my constant attachment might lose its charm in the painful sensation of an obligation to return an answer. So that I was consulting your pleasure even when I sacrificed that of writing to you. But indeed for my satisfaction the oftener we write the better for nothing can exceed the delight that a letter from you gives me, so long as we are absent from each other, and if it were really a painful task for me to write to others it would be an enjoyment to write to you.\n          I have mentioned to you in my last Letter that I expect to remain\nhere some months longer; perhaps till the next spring; but of all the sorts of gratification that I can derive from my new destination the most delicious is, that it gives me the hope of terminating sooner than I could otherwise have expected the vile embarassments which made our separation absolutely necessary.\u2014 It is the promise of decent support and Independence for us both that I value, and if you find it necessary to suppress some of the little attachments to splendor that lurk at your heart, perhaps imperceptibly to yourself, at least we can both console ourselves with the reflection that the deductions from present pomp will all be added to the securities of future comfort.\n          My orders to remove may possibly come suddenly, and earlier than I now expect them. I shall have no other inducement to take the way of England, but that of meeting you. I shall hope therefore that it will not require a long time for your preparations to bear me company. I must not stay an hour longer than will be necessary.\n          Let me again my dear friend recommend to you to fortify your mind for circumstances inevitably attached to our connection. The hardships of traveling, by sea or by land are formidable to you, in the delicate life to which you have always been accustomed. Yet you must be prepared to undergo them.\u2014 The modes of life, the manners and customs of the people where you may have occasion to reside, will be entirely different from those which you have been used to: perhaps many of them will appear unpleasant to you. For your own happiness, endeavour to acquire the faculty not merely of acquiescence, in unavoidable inconveniences, but even of a cheerful conformity to things which must be endured, and above all establish as an invariable rule for your conversation, to express no general or national reflections.\u2014 You will forgive me for this intimation. I have often experienced, and in many different countries that nothing is more natural, and nothing more offensive than reflections applying to nations or numerous classes of people; and I know your heart is so good that I would not have the misconception of any thing said by you ever give dissatisfaction to any one.\n          I understand that you have been during part of the Summer at Clapham, and I am persuaded, you have employed your time to advantage. It would give me pleasure to have from you a detail of every thing interesting to yourself in your situation.\u2014 Write to me with perfect confidence, as I have given you the example. Your progress upon the Harp I am persuaded is great, and as you are in the habit of reflecting, I have no doubt you will not be inattentive to the\nqualities, the exercise of which will be necessary or useful in the prospects, which I ardently hope will soon be realized.\n          Do not think I am sitting myself up for a Mentor, but give me your advice and opinions with equal freedom in return. Remember me affectionately to all the family, and be assured of the invariable and inexpressible attachment of your friend.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0188", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Abigail Adams, 16 August 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My dear Mother:\n          I have still to thank you for a very few lines addressed to myself, and for about half of a long Letter to my brother dated June 10.\u2014 The quotation expressive of the universal power of Love was pleasant, and the recommendation to my brother to fix his choice upon a person of manners habits and sentiments such as are likely to be found only in our own Country is judicious.\u2014 I have already given you my sentiments and explained to you my conduct on this score. If upon the whole I have done wrong, I shall be the principal sufferer.\u2014 But I must say, that if I had accepted the designation of any judgment upon Earth, or of any Sentiment but my own, I am sure I should have been unhappy; and if I had waited until all the requisites, I will not say of my father\u2019s, but even of my own opinion, could have been combined, I should have been certainly doomed to perpetual celibacy.\u2014 The matrimonial union you know is always professedly for better for worse, and to expect or require that the principle of making it altogether for better should be pursued inflexibly, would be not only to discover some deficiency of knowledge of human nature, but to mistake the essential character of the institution.\u2014 Prudence is a sorry match-maker.\u2014 She has been so rigorous in her councils to me, that I became quite weary of them, and would not allow even her claim of exercising a negative.\u2014 In discussing the question with me, she owned that upon the important articles of the person, the manners, the mind, and as far as she could discern, the heart, she had not a word of objection to make.\u2014 She muttered some question about the fortune, which I told her I\nwas unable to answer, and would not take the trouble to enquire.\u2014 But at the Country and the habits of life necessarily formed by it, she made her great stand.\u2014 The first was irremediable; but I had many things to say in mitigation of the second.\u2014 Prudence would not hear me, and I returned the compliment.\u2014 But the essential point being settled, she returned immediately and presided at the deliberation upon the point of time. She prescribed a temporary separation and was obeyed: she forbad even any express limitation of the time during which it was to continue, but said its termination must depend upon her alone.\u2014 We sighed, but we paid unqualified submission and parted.\u2014 Since then an Event has occurred upon which Prudence has suggested to me, that she proposes soon to remove her prohibition, and rather to recommend at once, what she could not prevent\n          To be poetical is a privilege of Lovers, and to be allegorical a privilege of Poetry. When the sordid iron of oeconomical arrangements, is mingled with the pure gold of a lover\u2019s passion, the meanness of the mixture needs to be disguised in description by some ornament of language or of Fancy. You will understand what I mean to say, and I hope you will not disapprove my intentions.\n          Your letter observes that all was calm and tranquil at the time of its date. I very much doubt whether the case will be the same, when you shall receive this.\n            \u201cOh! place and greatness, millions of false eyes\n            Are fix\u2019d upon thee! volumes of report\n            Run with their false and most contrarious quests\n            Upon thy doings! thousand \u2019scapes of wit\n            Make thee the father of their idle dream,\n            And rack thee in their fancies.\u201d\u2014\n          But that is not all. In my opinion a time of severe trial is again approaching for our Country, and every example which even the American People have given within these few years of indulging their momentary Passions has led me to consider them as more and more dangerous to their permanent welfare. To be in the centre of the stream when the tornado rises in its greatest fury, may gratify some sensations; but to unambitious minds like mine, it is very far from being desirable.\n          In my father\u2019s last Letter he observes that the fame of my friends Otis and Cooper, will spread faster than mine. That a Mission abroad is but an ostracism; but that I may enjoy it if I like it.\u2014 I do\nrather imagine, though I speak it with proper deference, that when this was written, my father was altogether unacquainted, with a new destination, to which I was however then designated, and which has been notified to me in terms which it would not become me to repeat, but which have made a deep impression upon my heart and mind. The destination, I have accepted, and shall therefore be still continued some time longer in the diplomatic career.\u2014 My fame will not spread upon the bold and rapid wing on which my fathers inclination would guide its flight\u2014 The Ostracism will still discard my person and my reputation from the centre of all my Ambition, which is my Country; but it will not discard my services, which I may be permitted to hope will be [use]ful services.\u2014 \u201cThere is room enough in the world for both of us\u201d\u2014 I was taught [this max]im, very early in life, and hope that I shall never abandon it either in my conduct [or in my feelin]gs.\u2014 But if the spreading fame of any man on Earth could give me a pang, which I think it cannot, it would assuredly not be that of my friends Cooper and Otis, whose weight and influence will contribute to the promotion of a good cause, and whom I am much more disposed to consider as fellow-labourers than as rivals. I suppose my father knows well the natural indolence of my disposition, and the unaspiring character of my temper. He thinks there is danger of its degenerating into absolute sloth and negligence, and proposes perhaps to stimulate my Industry, by instigating my emulation. I am ever grateful for these as for all the innumerable other proofs of his kindness and affection; if I have in my composition a spark of any valuable quality, I am indebted to his care for the breath that has kept it alive, and I hope to make such an use of it, as shall prove that it was not bestowed in vain; but I may express to you the sincere opinion that a career of fame, and yet more a career of ambition may commence with a progress too rapid in a Country where the latter has constitutional boundaries, which I never can be desirous to overpass or to see removed, and where the former is subject to so many variations and revolutions of popular opinion.\n          I have observed to you that from the internal evidence of my father\u2019s last Letter, I conclude that he did not even suspect the new appointment which was already conferred upon me. You will not attribute it to any thing like filial ingratitude if I add that this idea gives me singular pleasure. I can support very well the thought of being indebted much for my advancement to his merits, but I could not bear that of attributing it to his agency.\u2014 Louis the 14th: was one\nday expressing his astonishment, at the stupidity of a certain Ambassador at his Court\u2014\u201cDepend upon it, Sire,\u201d said the Count de Grammont to him, \u201che must be the relation of some Minister.\u201d\u2014 I have no desire to be the object of application for a similar reflection.\n          Our friend Mr: Luzac, who I am sorry to say is no longer Professor Luzac, is publishing a collection consisting of the Orations which he delivered on entering upon the functions of his Professorship, and on the expiration of his administration as Rector Magnificus, or Principal of the University at Leyden, together with some curious and scientific dissertations. He has dedicated the whole to my father in an elegant Latin Epistle which is to appear at the head of [the wor]k. This is the public mark of his respect which he has intimated in a lett[er to my father]. He has desired me to forward a copy of the book for my father and one for the American Academy, as soon as the collection shall be completed, which I shall accordingly do.\n          The news of the day may be comprized in the general information that the french armies in Italy and in Germany are universally triumphant and that a Peace between France and all Germany, unless perhaps it be the Emperor as head of the house of Austria, may be very soon expected.\u2014 They denounce nothing less than Death and Destruction against G. Britain, and are making tremendous preparations for a deadly conflict with her alone. All this apparatus however may be followed by something to be called Peace, before the next Summer. You will see in the papers there has been an attempt to dispatch the french pretender by assassination.\u2014 Who now would wish to be one of the Bourbons?\n          My brother is well, and will doubtless write you soon himself.\u2014 Whitcomb is recovering from his fever and ague.\u2014 Love and duty to all friends, especially to my honoured Grand-Mother.\u2014 Continue to write me under cover to Mr: Johnson at London, or directly here.\u2014\n          Your dutiful Son", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0190", "content": "Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to Abigail Adams, 27 August 1796\nFrom: Adams, Thomas Boylston\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My dear Mother.\n          In discharge of my promise to write you a letter, which has been given you in two covers enclosing letters from my brother, I commence before the expiration of a second month since the date of my last, by an acknowledgment of your favor of June 10th: which came to hand on the 6th: currt: together with several other\u2019s for JQA.\n          If to the countless instances of your affection and tenderness, another had been wanting to complete the measure of my gratitude, that other may be found in the more than sympathetic style with which you notice the report which had reached you of my illness. If any thing is calculated to stamp an indelible impression upon the memory and the heart, it is preeminently those services we receive from the hand of a parent a more remote relation or a friend, upon the bed of sickness. It has been my lot in life successively to appreciate the value of all these characters by the most painful experiments to myself, and the kind offices which are thus recorded in the tablets of my memory, were as honorable to the bestowers as they were grateful to the receiver. The infirmities which were ingrafted with my system previous to my birth, can never be reproached to the authors of my existence, and in the recollection of my parentage, if I can justly appropriate to myself the inheritance of but a small portion of their merit and their virtues, I shall esteem myself more than compensated by the possession of the latter, for all the painful hours which I have hitherto suffered or may hereafter experience from the former. From my last visitation I have perfectly recovered, and at this moment I am worth more in weight than I ever was at any former period; I am even growing corpulent, and am seriously threatened with the necessity of wearing a straight waistcoat, which would be a very heinous offence against fashion; but as in this climate I cannot count upon a permanence of my present habit, I shall save myself the expence & my taylor the mortification\nof altering old cloaths, for the sake of more fashionable disproportions, out of all reasonable shape. Holland is a most convenient place, for getting rid of an old wardrobe. So says Tilly.\n          I am indebted to you my dear Mother, for several sketches of our domestic affairs which have given me alternate pleasure and pain; but which in my returns to you I have not particularly noticed. What a striking illustration of the absurd instability of popular opinion is exhibited in the progress of the six months opposition to the British Treaty, and the six weeks repentance by way of atonement for it! Can it be the love of contention for its own sake, which induces men to espouse a quarrel which is directed against the success of an object, that they really wish may succeed? Or is it a kind of torpid listlesness which makes men dumb as advocates of a good cause and inactive spectators of such as seek to ruin it; suffering opposition to assume a consistency & a shape which nearly baffles all attempts to defeat it when it has reached the very borders of success? Such in several instances has been the operation of momentous concerns, in which individuals and the public were alike interested. To what hair-breadth escapes, the existing peace, honor and prosperity of our Country, must be attributed! A majority in our Representative council well disposed to put them all at stake for the paltry pretext of an alledged usurpation of prerogative in the other branches of the Government. In the list of yea\u2019s & nays upon the question of appropriations, I remark a strange inversion of names, in the two columns. For example, when I find the name of Gregg, a member of the Pennsylvania seat, upon the yea-side, my astonishment is great; but, that courage and independence enough should be found among the Virginia Representation, to produce one affirmative vote, exceeds all the extravagant examples that have ever been recorded as the effects of credulity. On the other hand, when the names of three Massachusetts men strike my eye on the Nayside, I lament their apostacy, at the same time that I sincerely rejoyce at the public record of their shameful subserviency. At a future day I believe it will be a useful instrument in the hands of a less dependent rival, and will operate as a positive pretention to the confidence of their Constituents. A Varnum in exchange for a Dexter!\u2014 I fain would hope that this rape upon public judgment will not be durable.\n          The call for papers relative to the Negotiation, which was made by the house of Representatives, previous to the appropriation law, and the fact of the Presidents refusal to answer the call by a\ncompliance, were first communicated to me by Mr: Marshal the husband of my old flame Miss M\u2014\u2014. Without waiting like a cautious politician, or a reserved Diplomate to sound the opinion of my informer, I very aristocratically exclaimed, perhaps presumptuously, \u201cthe President has done right.\u201d \u201cLet the House refuse the supplies if they please, the responsibility rests with them, for all consequences that may result from witholding them. I doubt whether they will have the courage to meet them.\u201d The abruptness of this declaration, would hardly admit a subsequent recantation, even had I been disposed to make any. But I must own that for some time after, when the numbers were compared, of pro\u2019s & cons, my conjectures as to the issue of that struggle for prerogative wavered between hope and apprehension. Happily victory has declared herself in favor of Constitutional privilege, as I pray she may always do, from whatever quarter the invasion may arise.\n          We have the Newyork Herald as late as the 25th: of June, and have searched them all over to find some account of the evacuation of the Posts, but scarcely a word is said upon the subject. This obstinate silence upon an event so considerable as that, is construed by us into favorable symptoms; it is at least productive of a negative confidence that no real obstruction has been thrown in the way of a seasonable delivery. The publication of several authentic letters, which we find in these papers, has served to elucidate many plots in the french system as it respects our Country, which before were but dimly seen, and that only through the fallacious and often erroneous medium of combining facts and occurrences which have no apparent affinity or connection. We perceive, that the share, which the Western Insurrection had in the vast plan of intrigue, hatched in the Committee of public safety at Paris in the days of Brissot, and exported in the vessel of which Genet was supercargo, landed in the southernmost extremity of our Continent, and there hawked about to obtain champions for an expedition against Florida under a french Commission, is at this day no mystery in the U. S.\n          We peceive that the negotiation for exchanging with Spain that portion of the Island of St Domingo, which was ceded by that power as the price of a peace with France, for Florida, is well known among you, and should that negotiation be successful, it is not difficult to discover what use will be made of a footing upon our territory. That there are secret agents and abettors of this scheme in different parts of Europe, who call themselves American citizens, there can be no doubt. Col Fulton lately came over from the seat of\nGovernment with voluminous dispatches for the Minister of the United States at Paris, from private correspondents. For a result of all these things we must look to time.\n          The french order to their Commanders of armed vessels, to capture neutral, alias, american vessels charged with enemy\u2019s property, was issued it seems in the West Indies, long e\u2019er it was made public in Europe. Why, if it be not expressly pointed against American navigation, was it first divulged in the West Indies, where all our commerce must pass & repass? I long to hear in what light the orders are viewed by our people.\n          In my last letter, I gave you some intimation of my intentions respecting my return home, and placed the probability of my remaining here, another year, upon the contingency of my Brothers permanence at this place. A destination more honorable to himself, better proportioned to his talents, if not more useful to the public service, is since assigned him. He is ordered however to hold his present station until further notice, and when the period of his removal shall be ascertained, we shall probably take leave of the Hague together, though in opposite directions. If my present plan meet no obstacles of a prudential or other nature, to its execution, I shall make a short excursion by way of winding up my European tour, and embark in one of the first Spring vessels for my native land, where I hope once more to embrace with ardor, proportioned to the affection I feel, all my friends, and first and foremost my beloved parents, whom I entreat to believe me with love and duty, their son.\n            Thomas B Adams.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0191", "content": "Title: Louisa Catherine Johnson to John Quincy Adams, 28 August 1796\nFrom: Johnson, Louisa Catherine\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n            Clapham August 28th 96\n          How shall I answer my dear friends last charming letter where find words adequate to the pleasure I experienced at reading it the idea of your returning almost compensates for the pain I felt at parting\u2014 Yet shall I confess fears arise which never presented themselves before. When I reflect upon the part in life I shall have to act with the little I have seen of the world my conscious deficiency appears manifest and I already think I see you blush for my awkwardness but I know the generosity of your disposition and am convinced you will forgive and encourage me by your kindness to mend\u2014\n          You ask me how I spend my time I wish my friend you had touched on any other subject for I must candidly confess I have profited little by my retirement but it is yourself who are the cause by (shall I say it) intruding too often on my thoughts\u2014 Permit me to beg you will let me know some time previous to your departure as\nPapa & Mama wish for all possible time to prepare themselves for the seperation and hope it will not be very sudden\u2014\n          Alas I feel this the only drawback to my felicity but I must not always expect cloudless skies I acknowledge my lot has been cast in a fair graine and on this ought to acquire a little of your philosophy that Heaven may hasten the time when we shall meet and propitious winds blow you safely to England where you will find a harbour is the sincere prayer of your unalterable friend\n            Louisa C. Johnson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0192", "content": "Title: Charles Adams to Abigail Adams, 11 September 1796\nFrom: Adams, Charles\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My dear Mother\n          Your favor of the 6th instant came to hand yesterday. I can give you no certain information respecting Col Smiths affairs He has a vast property in his hands but is very much embarrased for want of money to make his regular payments as they become due Whether on the winding up he will have anything left is what I believe neither he or anyone else knows. He acted on a very large scale and whatever he may think you and I know he is not a Robert Morris.\n          Mrs Adams had a short return of the ague but is now very well the child also grows finely and is very healthy I have thought that it might be pleasing to my father and would be a tribute of respect to my venerable grandmother to name our little girl Susanah Boylston which shall be her name if you and my father concur with me in sentiment. It would give me great pleasure and would contribute much to the health and satisfaction of Mrs Adams to pass a few weeks with you but we shall be prevented by prudential reasons. Such is the State of affairs in this City at present European speculations have turned so little to the advantage of many engaged in them that Lawyers are in great demand An absence of one week might deprive me of more business than at another time I should get in three months and as the City is in general remarkably healthy We must postpone our visit this fall. I had letters from both my brothers last week dated the 10th of June Thomas has been very ill of a bilious fever which confined him near four months he has recovered and writes in high spirits The Minister seems also to be\nindisposed though I am inclined to think his malady is not dangerous being seated about the region of the heart. He returned from England the latter end of May. I do not know what to make of a conversation I had with Mr King soon after his appointment to England. I met him in the Street He said he supposed I had heard of my brothers appointment I told him I had not, he then informed me that he was appointed Minister Plenipotentiary to Portugal and remarked that though it was more out of the center of information yet he hoped as it was an honorable promotion he would accept it. Since this conversation I have heard nothing about the appointment. My father appears not to know of it and I am quit puzled I should think Mr King would not have made such a declaration unless he had very good ground for it and it appears strange if it is the case that nobody else seems to know anything about the business.\n          I forgot to mention to my father that I had his Cujacius in my posesion they are in ten volumes in folio I had to appraise them at the Custom House which I did at ten pounds supposing that to be about the original cost the duty on them I think amounted to about one guinea. Mrs Adams joins me in presenting our respects to my father and yourself.\n          Your affectionate son\n            Chas Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0193", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson, 12 September 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Johnson, Louisa Catherine\n            The Hague September 12. 1796.\n          I have received, my amiable friend, your letters of the 19th: and 28th: of last month, and am properly grateful for the readiness with which you consent to accompany my rambling destinies. The sacrifice which you will be obliged to make in quitting your paternal roof, is so great, that it gives me not a little anxiety. To give you a substitute for it, I cannot expect. That you should ever have reason to regret it is an idea of which even the possibility is painful.\u2014 Suffer me therefore to beg you once more not to place in too fair a light the prospects which present themselves to you. [Look a]t them often on their dark side. Be assured that they offer many aspects\nwhich are [far fro]m being promising. I wish you to reflect thoroughly upon them all, because I think you will be better prepared for those evils and inconveniences some of which are inevitable, and all of which are possible.\n          The aukwardness of novelty which you dread in the new scene of life into which you are to enter is in my mind a very little object indeed.\u2014 But when you speak of my blushing for your aukwardness I think you must have meant to rally me a little. The parade of dignity annexed to rank, is a thing for which I have no sort of respect, and I need not tell you how far I am from possessing a particle of it myself.\u2014\n          I confess that the station in which I have to move, is one of my greatest causes of regret.\u2014 You think me ambitious, and will therefore perhaps suspect the sincerity of this declaration\u2014 But it is perfectly true.\u2014 I never had a wish to be placed so high in the world at so early period of my life.\u2014 The station itself is temporary. I cannot if I would, hold it long. I would not if I could.\u2014 I must therefore always be ready at an hour\u2019s warning, to return to that of private life and no fortune.\u2014 For that variety you too must be prepared in connecting yourself with me, and in order to be well prepared for it, consider rank itself as an object of no consequence since it must so soon be resigned.\n          I shall certainly inform you of my departure as soon as I shall be able to fix upon it myself. But at present I have very little hopes of meeting you before the Spring.\u2014 I do not apprehend being delayed longer than that; but I am not at my own disposal, and must wait with a Patience, which I find it very difficult on this occasion to command, for the pleasure of my Masters.\u2014 When I receive my orders it will take me some time to settle my affairs here before I can remove, especially as I expect then to part from my brother who proposes to return to America.\n          You have profited little you say in your retirement, but I believe yo[u do no]t give yourself so good a report as you deserve. I have no doubt but that y[ou will] every where rapidly improve, as you know so well the value of time.\n          Adieu my lovely friend, I remain with the most faithful affection, yours.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0194", "content": "Title: William Cranch to John Quincy Adams, 16 September 1796\nFrom: Cranch, William\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n            My dear friend\n          The want of opportunity, and leisure, has a long time prevented me from writing you. The ship Mary Peggy, from Georgetown for Amsterdam has moved down & now lies in the stream opposite my house, waiting for the wind & tide. I have tried for a fortnight past to get a moment\u2019s leisure to write you, but Messrs. Morris & Nicholson are now here and their business together with the settlement & payment of the accounts for ten large brick houses which I have built for Mr. Morris since 25th. June last, has occupied every moment of my time. I never knew what full Employment was \u2019till I came to this City.\u2014\n          I know nothing of Politics.\u2014 It is said & believed that the President will resign.\u2014 The two principal Candidates are the present Vice President & Mr. Jefferson.\u2014 It is thought that the district to which I belong will vote for the former, and I am led to hope that Virginia will also have a Majority in favr. of the same Candidate, notwithstanding his unpardonable Crime in repeating the odious word \u201cWell-born\u201d in his book upon Government.\u2014 I have often fell into Company where the Character of this Patriot has been the subject of Conversation, and the only aspertion which democratic violence could suggest was that he used the word \u201cwell-born.\u201d The noise about the treaty has nearly subsided, and in the jacobin papers the only cant words are \u201cBritish Amity,\u201d & \u201cexclusive Patriots.\u201d\u2014\n          I had a letter from my Mother of the 7th. Inst. in which she says your father is well & your Mother (whose health has not been good for some time past) is getting better. Our other friends are well. My Brother Norton is like to be starved out of his parish, & will probably have to seek a living elsewhere.\u2014\n          This City is an object which undoubtedly attracts the attention of many People in Europe, and you may wish to know it\u2019s present situation & future prospects.\u2014 It contains about 100 hansome brick houses the greatest part of which are yet unfinished & of course uninhabited. The price of Lots has been nearly stationary for 18 Months past\u2014the average may be stated at 10 Cents per square foot by retail.\u2014 There are also about 100 decent wooden dwelling houses occupied by tradesmen.\u2014 These houses are scatter\u2019d about over the whole face of the City and there is yet but little appearance of a\ntown.\u2014 The Congress has authorised a loan for the finishing the public buildings, of $300,000\u2014on the Credit of which the Capitol has progressed considerably this season, and one wing of it (which is large enough to accommodate the Congress) will be cover\u2019d by the end of 1797.\u2014 The Presidents house is nearly ready to receive the Roof.\u2014 The Navigation of the Patowmack is also in great forwardness, and the locks at the great falls will probably be completed in the Course of the next year.\u2014 The rise of the property here has been in some instances 2400 per Cent since 1793.\u2014but in general it has not been so great. It is, however, clear in my opinion that any one who will purchase property here & can afford to keep it 4 or 5 years will make immense profit.\u2014 So much for City of Washington.\u2014\n          My own time has been most completely occupied, but my health & that of all my family has been perfectly good ever since I have been here. We have not had one hour\u2019s sickness.\u2014 I have in family Mr. Eliot & his sister Betsy\u2014Doctr. May from Boston & four servants.\u2014 My Nancy is everything I could wish or hope for, as a Wife & friend.\u2014 We have not once had the least difference of sentiment, and neither satiety nor disgust have follow\u2019d from 18 months enjoyment. We have a boy about 9 months old, who is perfect in his limbs & shape, who is as robust a child as I ever saw\u2014is tight & fat, his joints well Knit, & is a full blooded Yankee, begotten on the Banks of Merrimack, in Nature\u2019s fullest Glee. He has a Countenance full of jolly smiles\u2014his mothers forehead & Eyes, a nose compounded of the two & a mouth a little resembling his father when he smiles.\u2014 He is often passionate but very seldom cries.\u2014 Excuse the father for saying so much of a [\u2026] in whom you can have no other Interest tha[n that h]e belongs to me.\u2014\n          I intend to write a line to my dear friend your brother, but if I should not have time, please tell him I would have written. I have tried much to get some good tobacco for him, but altho\u2019 we live in the midst of a tobacco Country, no one will take the pains to manufacture it.\u2014 I have requested a friend of mine to send to Petersburgh in Virginia, (where only the good tobacco can be had) for a Keg, but it has not arrived yet, & the ship is now sailing.\n          With every wish for your happiness & that of / your amiable Brother, believe me most / sincerely & affectionately your friend", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0196", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 25 September 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, Thomas Boylston\n            my Dear Thomas\n          Your Letter of June the 29th was as refreshing to me as cold water to a thirsty Soul. the very superscription gave a flow to my spirits which I had not experienced for many Months before. be assured not one unkind thought ever enterd my mind at not hearing from you. it was anxious Solisitude for Your Health, painfull suspence at what might be the cause of Your long silence. Your Brother had informd me from England, that you had been sick, and the Nature of your Complaints. Maternal affection felt the pains, heightned by the Idea of Distance, a foreign Land, destitute of Fraternal aid, and those alleviations which Soothe the Heart, and mitigate the Sufferings. Not a Bosom as Sterns Says to Uncle Toby, to rest Your Head upon, nor a Heart to repose Your Sorrows to. poor Fellow, if after commisiration and pity, could assuage even the pain of recollection, be assured You would find an ample fund, sufficient to allay them all, in the sympathetic Heart of Your Mother, who has herself experienced much ill Health through the Summer. I would recommend to You to try the Waters of Bath. they are said to be Soverign in those complaints to which you are Subject. Your Brothers New appointment will determine You to return Home next spring I presume. I should however recommend to you to visit France before that period. See for yourself a very extradonary People, whose\nfuture Destiny no Eye can penetrate, nor am I sufficently versd in the Prophesys, with Pater West, to rejoice in this Revolution which has consignd so many Innocent Victims to the World of Spirits, immolated so many fellow Creatures, to Mad ambition, and a thirst of Domination and conquest which now mark every step of their progress. Heaven grant that we may not be Scorched by their Flames. even at this Distance we feel the Heat of them.\n          The die is cast! All America is or ought to be in mourning The President of the united states refuses again to be considerd as a canditate for that office. He has addrest the people of the united states. read and Judge for yourself. is it not repleat with profound wisdom? how enlarged and comprehensive his views? How wise and judicious his advise? and, his warnings? with a modesty, I could almost say, peculiar to himself, with a Heart and mind Duly imprest with Religious Sentiments and an affectionate attachment to his Countrymen, he resigns the important trusts Committed to him, coverd with Glory and Crownd with Laurels, which will place him in the Archives of Time with the first of Heroes and the greatest of Benefactors to Mankind.\n          The present period is to the people of America a solemn pause! an Epoch in their Annals Big with the Fate of America.\n          Heaven Guide and direct them.\n          Before your Letter of June reachd me I felt so anxious for you, that I requested your Father to write to the Secretary of state, and inquire of him if any Letter had reachd him of a later Date. he was kind enough to reply and make some extracts from them, and at the close of his Letter, he says \u201cthe intelligence with which the Letters of your Youngest Son have been written, shew that the affairs of the united States in the Netherlands might very well be intrusted to his direction,[\u201d] but he adds, I do not know what are the Presidents intentions.\n          I quote this passage to shew you that your Letters have given satisfaction. the President has not left to a successor the promotion of Your Brother. I find by the Secretary of States Letter, that he was to remain in Holland untill further orders. when he receives them, I presume he will go to England and take his companion, who I hope will prove to him all he wants, and all he wishes, who will Do him good and not evil all the Days of her Life. I have felt a little anxious least I should have hurt his feelings in some sentiments exprest to him in a Letter, soon after I heard of his appointment, but he must\nasscribe them to the real cause an anxious Solicitude for his welfare\u2014\n          adieu my Dear son. may you be safely returnd to Your Native land, and to the Arms of / your affectionate Mother\n            Abigail Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0197", "content": "Title: Joshua Johnson to John Quincy Adams, 30 September 1796\nFrom: Johnson, Joshua\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          Your favor of the 13th came to hand on the 26th. by which I find that you had not determined on the time of your departure or the Rout you should persue, tho you say you should prefer that by way of England if you are permitted & a Passage in a Neutral Vessell could be obtaind to carry you to your destination; I donot know the propriutory or Impropiutory of your comeing this way, therefore I will not venture an opinion on the case, but should you fix on this rout you need not be under any apprehentions of meeting with Neutral Vessells to convey you when you want to go as many are continually going back & forward. It is true, I do know the motive of your wishing to come this way & I should not act candid if I was not to tell you, that I wish it & that before the Month of March as I find it absolutely necessary for me to quit this for Amica either in that\nMonth or early in April! for unless I go to Amica soon I may loose every thing that I have been labouring for during my life & leave my Family unprovided for & even unprotected, on meeting I can explain more to you & you will also have an opportunity to confer & make such arrangements as may tend to your future happiness & relieve me from a doubt whether my Child is to go with me or not\n          I had receved previous to your letter, an Official communication from Mr. King, that the Directory of France, had come to the determination not to molest our Flag, I wish this Country would act with the same moderation; but they cannot help every now & then takeing some of our Vessells.\u2014\n          By the latest Accounts from Amica we find that the opinion of the People is altered. it is now generally beleived that the President will be reelected & that he will serve the Office, it will be productive of one good & which is the prevention of a struggle for the Seat.\u2014 Dr. Nichol & Mr. Anstic are the Commissions appointed on the part of this Governmt to Settle the claims for our Captured property, the Commissions have advrtized to meet on the 10th. of next Month to do business & they tell me that they have hopes of finishing the whole in Eighteen Months, I much wish they may but I have my doubts\u2014 I am now looking out for an opportunity to send you the Books Mr. Hall left with me and as soon as I can meet with one they shall be forwarded\u2014\n          Mr. Bourne had wrote me that he had determined on postponeing his Visit to Amrica this Year & informed me of his Intentions to carry on Business at Amsterdam, I have a very high respect for this Gentleman & when I get fixt in Amrica shall do my best endeavors to serve him\u2014\n          It is with much pleasure that I can inform you that Mrs. Johnson & all the Ladies are well, they Join in Affectionate Compliments to you; with every Sentiment of regard I am / Dear Sir / Your Affecte. Freind\n            Joshua Johnson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0198", "content": "Title: Louisa Catherine Johnson to John Quincy Adams, 30 September 1796\nFrom: Johnson, Louisa Catherine\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          After waiting with extreme anxiety I recieved my friend your very short letter of the 12th Inst which afforded me both pleasure and pain: it has realized an apprehension I had lately entertained, I knew not why of your having erroneously supposed me dazzled with what you stile rank. Permit to say that having always been taught to consider domestic happiness alone permanent I am and sincerely hoped to have remained a stranger to pomp.\n          I have hitherto from a point of delicacy declined mentioning your public situation at least my opinion of it lest you might have considered it as offering the guidance of my weak judgement and next that you might not in any degree have been biassed through your much valued esteem for me. Yet have I frequently wished to persuade you to relinquish every station that detained you from your friends and Country.\n          True my Sex is esteemed fond of parade so that you may probably be inclined to doubt the truth of this assersion if such are your sentiments allow me however anxiously to await your return to America where I shall be happy to prove that you and not your rank engross my every wish.\n          Now suffer me to offer you my most affectionate thanks for your candor in indulging me with an opportunity of an eclaicissement so requisite to our mutual happiness.\n          Respecting the dangers incident to my Voyage many of which you wish me to suppose inevitable, many more as possible you advise me to weigh well the matter which I am to do by contemplating the dark side (pleasing admonition) however I have availed myself of it and painted the scene gloomy as possible. but with you at the head find every idea of danger vanish.\n          Be assured I shall always be ready to return with you to private life and no fortune nor shall I need a previous preparation to induce me to consider rank itself an object of no consequence\n          Convinced of your affection and in the constant hope of soon hearing from you I with pleasure subscribe myself your tenderly attached\n            Louisa C. Johnson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0201", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Charles Adams, 25 October 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, Charles\n            My dear Brother\n            The Hague October 25th: 1796\n          I have received your letter of September 7th: with the account current, which as you observe, though not altogethe mercantile in point of form is fully intelligible and satisfactory.\n          As I shall as soon as it is in my power authorise you to make another draught on my account, I shall remind you of two directions\ncontained in my former letters and from which it is my wish that you will in no case depart. It is to make no draught at a discount but rather to draw at times when an advantage may be made of your bills. The other is, on no account whatever to incur an illegal risk, or aim at an illegal profit in the employment of my money. As to the first point, where there is a great fluctuation in the course of Exchange, common prudence must dictate to those who are under no restraint of time to chose that which offers a fair and just benefit, and avoid that when the transaction must involve a loss. The other objection arising from a conscientious regard to the laws is obvious. I shall of course be the more gratified in proportion as my property is productive, and have no objection to any rational risk for a proportionable profit; but I prefer infinitely the small benefit of legal interest, if a choice must be made between that, and any gain whatever that is obnoxious to the laws.\n          I have also received your favour of August 11. by Captain Spring, and congratulate you upon the birth of your Daughter. I will not say that I envy your happiness, because I shall always rejoyce at your prosperity. But what a sorry figure politics and celibacy and the perpetual cold bath of a Dutch atmosphere, make in comparison with learned Council a wife and daughter, and new-York with real air to breath, instead of a rarefied Canal. As to warm weather, if any faith is to be placed in augury, I shall at no very distant period be favored with at least as much of it as you have. Whether I shall get into as warm a birth must be left for time to determine.\n          I am obliged to you for the papers which you still send us once in a while and for the short letters, which you do write me\u2014 As for the long letters, which you intend to write me, the file of which is already considerable, and accumulating every two or three months, I believe I may as well thank you for them too, for if I reserve my acknowledgements untill I receive them, I fear you will never be rewarded for them according to their merits.\n          We have seen the Presidents address to the people of the United States in a Boston Centinel of Septr: 24th: Its wisdom and spirit and parental solicitude, are worthy of his character; but I do most sincerely and deeply regret his determination to retire.\n          The newspapers, which are constantly sent you, will give you accurate intelligence from this part of the world. I suppose you generally receive them late, but the position of the Country makes it impossible to transmit them earlier. You will find that the French\narmies began the campaign with prodigious force, and penetrated very far into Germany, but have been driven back to the Rhine for the present. They will perhaps renew the attempt the next year.\n          Lord Malmsbury has arrived at Paris as English Ambassador to negotiate a peace. The people both of France and England most ardently wish for peace. The Governments on one side or the other, probably on both think it not yet time. Projects of Conquest are indulged on both parties, and the adherence to them, will it is likely prevail more powerfully than the distress of nations groaning & bleeding under the burden of a war, for which conquest is now the only remaining pretext. Another year of contest is still expected. I trust our Country will have the wisdom to preserve its peace. The treaty with Britain has effectually given us the Posts; the Commission for settling the capture cases is now sitting in London and will have a probably advantageous and favourable termination. These are permanent, substantial, undeniable benefits. They will remain when the clamours and riots of faction shall only be remembered as a stain and become a reproach in the mouth of faction itself. I hope however these will not be forgotten. Let them serve as indications of designs, which were happily defeated, and the memorial of the past may operate as a guard against the preparations of the future.\n          Remember me affectionately to your lady, and be assured of the invariable sentiments of your brother.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0202", "content": "Title: John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 28 October 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          I have this Morning, filed in order your Letters and have now in one bundle before me from No. 6 to No. 23 inclusively and will take care they shall not be again Seperated.\n          The Western Posts are all delivered, and the Commissions in a good Way.\u2014 Mr King and Mr Gore in England and I hope Mr Pinkney in France, will be your Friends bothe Personally and Politically.\n          You are destined to Portugal and will take with you, I presume an\nhelp meet, and may God grant you and her a double Portion of his choicest Blessings\n          I am Still delighted with your Facts, your Opinions, your Principles and your Feelings. I believe them just.\n          Electioneering goes on, with as little Bitterness as can be expected, but exactly as you would anticipate.\n          If the President should direct you to charge your Brother with our affairs, I hope he will Stay at the Hague till he hears farther from me.\n          I do not approve of your Projects of quitting the Diplomatic Career at present; much less of your Thoughts of settling in the Southern States.\n          You need not be anxious about the Succession to The Presidency, for whoever shall be chosen I dare answer for it, he will not disgust you, either by promoting others over you, or by any other ill treatment. No Man who has been mentioned or thought of, but has a just Value for your Merits. Even if your Father should be the Person he will not so far affect a Disinterest as to injure you. If Jefferson if Henry if Jay, Hamilton or Pinckney, should be elected your Honour and Promotion will be in no hazard\n          But you know, I do not allow myself to write you upon Public Affairs at present. I hope to be a better Correspondent, e\u2019er long,\u2014 I am always / with a tender Affection your\n            John Adams\n            I have sent by this ship a Packet for Mr Tegelaar of Amsterdam containing his new Certificates. I shall wish to know if he has recd them", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0203", "content": "Title: Louisa Catherine Johnson to John Quincy Adams, 1 November 1796\nFrom: Johnson, Louisa Catherine\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          How my much loved friend Shall I atone. for the uneasiness my last letter caused you\u2014 Could my picture at the moment I read those lines so descriptive of your affectionate pain have proved a true index of my soul it would I am persuaded in your gentle bosom\nhave procured my peace\u2014 Allow me to say I saw in yours, or thought I saw an inexpressible something that did not do justice to the sincerity of my affection, and anxious to eradicate every suspicion of being too much elated with your situation, induced me to be thus explicit, but a truce with explanations we are I trust equally convinced and I am certain mutually satisfied\u2014\n          You have spoken peace and Oh may it prove our constant attendant\u2014 May distrust with all its baneful tribe be far, far from our hearts\u2014 At this moment look at my picture and if it expresses the feelings of the original, it greatly exceeds what my pen is capable of\u2014 You will ere this I flatter myself have recieved your dispatches, and may they be propitious to my happiness, for be assured my friend whatever declarations I make relative to our longer separation, though voluntary they are no less painful sacrifices, for be assured the world itself without you will ever be an aching void to your", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0205", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Quincy Adams, 11 November 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          I have to acknowledg the receipt of two kind Letters from You Since I wrote You last, No 21 from the Hague June 30. and No 22 July 25. for both of them accept my Cordial Thanks. Letters from either of my sons, give me a flow of spirits for a week, and a Durable gratification in the perusal of them, as they contain judicious reflections and observations which would do honour to the most experienced Statesmen, not only in the partial mind of a fond Parent, but are so esteemed by disinterested judges.\n          Before this reaches You, the Solemn News of the Presidents declaration to retire from the publick service together with his Excellent address to the people, will no Doubt be communicated to you by some earlier opportunity. Words cannot do justice to this last Legacy. Where shall we look What Page of History can shew us a Character like Washingtons\n            \u201cWho has made fair Plenty through the Land increase\n            Given Fame in War, and happiness in Peace\u201d\n          God Almighty bless him in this world and the next.\n          You quite mistook my meaning, when I observed to You, \u201cThat if two Events Should take place, You must not expect promotion.[\u201d] by the first I meant the Resignation of the President. the other was, that his successor might be one who would feel a Delicacy on account of your Personal Connection with him. but the President has not left this Subject to embarress his Successor, should he be the person contemplated, and whilst I consider it as the reward of Merrit I feel myself indebted to his Paternal care.\n            \u201cIf to me Sons are given\n            Such as in fondness, parents ask of Heaven\u201d\n          I rejoice that they are found worthy of the Confidence of their Country, and hope that they will ever prove Some of its firmest pillars and Supporters.\n          I wrote to you upon My first hearing of your appointment to Portugal, and in My Zeal for your Welfare, I fear I might mix more warmth of expression, than on maturer reflection I ought to have Done. What ever I wrote was well intended. my fear arose from the Youth and inexperience of the Lady with whom you was about to connect yourself, least she should contract Tastes and Sentiments altogether Anti American, least the Stile and Manners of a court Should make too Deep an impression upon a Youthfull Mind, to realish the Republican Manners of an American\n          Your experience will I hope gaurd you against those evils, and impress them upon her mind. I think you ought not to go to Portugal alone. Your Brother means to return to us. You whose chief delight is in Domestick Life, must feel yourself in a Desert without a companion. as you have fixd, and I trust wisely, I advise you to marry the Lady before you go to Portugal. Give my Love to her and tell her I consider her already as my Daughter, and as she made England delightfull to you, I hope she will, every other Country.\n          As your return to America will be postponed, I shall not say any thing upon the intimation you gave of setling at the Southard. The Lady it is who is to forsake Father and Mother, and follow the fortunes of her Husband, but this must be the Subject of a future Letter.\n          I inclose to you a News paper all the Arts of the Jacobins are in practise at the approaching Election, united with the Pride of the old Dominion and foreign influence. you will see in the paper which I have inclosed to Thomas, Adets Letter. You will mark the period at which it appears the people are not insensible to this movement. the News papers inform us that the most active measures are taking by the Democratic Societies to ensure success to their Candidate, by circulating Hand Bill containing libels on mr Adams. Gate post, Doors of Houses & posts are coverd through the Country, a right Gallic measure. Men are hired to ride through the Country with Bags of these Hand Bills. I do not however learn that they contain any thing but to represent him as attach\u2019d to Monarchy to Tittles &c that he is Enemical to the Rights of the people, all of which these very engines of Mischief know to be false.\n          they have Dropt all Candidates but the Vice President & mr\nJefferson, who on the other side has his Principles and pratises throughly Desected. inclosed is a paper which will give you some Idea of the subject, but who the writer is, is unknown both to your Father and to me.\n          You will readily suppose that a fiery ordeal is prepareing.\n          Our Friends here are all well and desired to be affectionatly rememberd to you. I am my Dear Son your / Ever affectionate Mother", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0207", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson, 12 November 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Johnson, Louisa Catherine\n            The Hague November 12. 1796.\n          I received by the last Post, two Letters from your Pappa, my amiable friend, and looked in vain for a line from you. Not a syllable even to tell me you were well. I found indeed from your Pappa\u2019s Letters that you had not at their date received my last, and therefore upon the rigour of etiquette, you were not obliged to write. I shall not complain, and attribute your silence rather to your usual aversion to writing, than to any remains of the temper which I was sorry to observe in your last Letter.\n          This Circumstance however, painful in itself, was rendered still more so by its concurrence with the tenor of my letters from America received at the same time. They lengthen the prospect of my detention here, and deprive me almost entirely of the hopes I had so fondly indulged of meeting you before your Pappa\u2019s return to America. The protraction of the time during which we must still be separated from each other, is a severe disappointment, and at present I have only to comfort myself with the hope that it will not be of long continuance. The residence of any part of Europe possesses very few attractions to my mind. A continual impulse directs my inclinations towards my own Country, and when you shall be there, it will be the center of all my affections; I shall therefore have the settled determination to shorten my continuance in Europe as much as possible, and upon the first moment when I shall be able consistently with my duty to my Country, to you and to my own affairs, I shall seize it with eagerness to share with you an humble but a contented lot.\n          When a course of Events occurs which disappoints our wishes, it is a consolation to consider the circumstances in our lot which tend to alleviate the pain of disappointment.\u2014 I endeavour therefore to comfort myself with the consideration that although we must still delay the moment of our destined union it will eventually be formed in a situation which will require no subsequent sacrifices. That it will not expose us to form habits of attachment to the empty\nbaubles of a life connected with Courts. That you will in the interval become acquainted with the manners and habits of the People among whom the residue of your life is to be past, and will habituate yourself to them in such a manner, as not to remember with regret the idle unsubstantial pageantry of Europe. You will therefore find it easier to acquiesce and make yourself happy under the unambitious and unpretending style of life, which will be necessarily the lot of the companion to a Man, not gifted by Fortune, and determined to live Independent.\u2014 This consolation of Reason cannot indeed satisfy the Heart, but it contributes to silence its complaints.\n          Without you, I am indeed fully sensible that all society will be insipid to me; I go but little into it here, and purposely avoid the public assemblies, balls and other parties where I should certainly find less satisfaction than I do alone with my books and the remembrance of you. To reading I have since my return here devoted more of time than ever. Indeed almost the whole that I have at my own disposal.\u2014 As my inclination leads me to believe that there is an heaviness of absence, to you too, I persuade myself that you also employ your leisure in acquiring the ornaments of an elegant mind, and I yet flatter myself with the hope that you will surmount altogether your aversion to writing, and prove by a frequent and interesting correspondence, that your own well adapted efforts have happily seconded the excellence of your natural understanding. Thus we shall both beguile in a great measure the tediousness of inevitable absence, by the consciousness of its rendering us continually more worthy of each other.\n          Adieu my lovely friend. I remain with invariable affection your / tenderest friend.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0208", "content": "Title: Mercy Otis Warren to Abigail Adams, 13 November 1796\nFrom: Warren, Mercy Otis\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n          I return my dear madam miss Williams letters with Lovuts memoirs\u2014 am much obliged & hope have not detained them too long\u2014\n          am sorry to hear by Your late short billet that You do not enjoy perfect health\u2014\n          was the stage driver under any mistake when he told me you Contemplated a passage to Plimouth in the stage ere long\u2014 I hope he was not: as such a Circumstance would be exceedingly gratifying to Your friends here\u2014\n          I did promise myself the pleasure of passing one evening at lest before the seting in of winter\u2014but begin now to doubt whither it will be in my power\u2014\n          Mr Warren unites in respectful Compliments to the vice president and to Yourself: with Your assured / frend & Humble servant\n            Mercy Warren\n            my daughter sets by and desires her most respectful regards as would the lovely little Marcia otis was she awake", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0210", "content": "Title: Charles Adams to Abigail Adams, 16 November 1796\nFrom: Adams, Charles\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My dear Mama\n          I have received your two last letters that by Mr Bracket accompanied by the presents you were so kind to make us. The fruit though\nit had a very long passage is very fine there not being more than thirty unsound pairs in the whole barrel the cheese is also remarkably good and I think would deceive the most experienced Englishman\u2014\n          The anxiety respecting the event of the election is very great not that they suppose that Mr Jefferson will stand any chance for President but The Federal party are apprehensive that the Eastern States by voting unanimously for Pinckney; should South Carolina split between the two candidates for the Presidency, may give a majority when no one intended it should be had. such are the apprehensions which must be excited at every election while that unfortunate part of our Constitution remains.\n          The friends of Mr Jefferson deal much in declamation and extravagant calculations they count six votes East of New York towit four from Massachusetts two from New Hampshire one half from Maryland the whole from Virginia Kentucky Tenessee Pennsylvania North Carolina South Carolina and Georgia by which said hopeful calculation wants nothing but accuracy to secure them their object. Mr Gerry say they will certainly give his vote for Jefferson. He must be very much changed if he does not say I! They were highly delighted when they hear Govr Adams was candidate for Elector No one said they can stand against him they were rubbing their hands and counting his vote as sure when lo!! the Boston Centinel arrived yesterday and baffled all their hopes. I sent the letter of my Eldelst Brother to the Governor I shall probably hear his remarks on it as I dine there today This I will say of it that it contains more sense than all the logic of all the Jacobins in the world Heaven preserve us from French influence and the tender mercies of their fraternal embraces is the sincere prayer of your affectionate son\n            Mrs Adams and your little Susan are both very well", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0212", "content": "Title: Louisa Catherine Johnson to John Quincy Adams, 25 November 1796\nFrom: Johnson, Louisa Catherine\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          I have within the last sad hour recieved your affectionate though painful letter of the 12 which caused me more uneasiness than I am capable of expressing; indeed I know not how I shall answer it\u2014 Ah my beloved friend how shall I acquire fortitude to bear my present disappointment\u2014 You have it is true kindly endeavoured to heal the wound so reluctantly given, but in vain each endearing line instead\nof mitigating the anguish of my mind tends but to probe it more deeply\u2014 But why do I so cruelly add to your affliction; forgive me my friend, I will try to conquer unavailing sorrow, and if possible prevail on reason to usurp her right, which though unable fully to satisfy the heart will I trust contribute to silence its complaints\u2014\n          Willingly would I acquiesce in every thing you recommend yet am I inclined to believe even you in this instance find theory easier than practice\u2014\n          In a former letter you recommended me to be prepared for a sudden departure\u2014with what pleasure did I immediately set about the delightful employment, and had completed it to the most minute article\u2014 But a truce with complaints\u2014\n          Write me again soon and be assured that I have already surmounted every aversion to writing and hope to prove by a frequent and interested correspondence the invariable affection of,\n            Louisa C. Johnson\u2014", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0213", "content": "Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to John Adams, 26 November 1796\nFrom: Adams, Thomas Boylston\nTo: Adams, John\n              The Hague 26th: November 1796.\n            Two days since I had the pleasure to receive your kind favors of the 9th: June and 8th: of August, which came by the way of England with one of the 16th: August from my mother. I find by these, that my letter\u2019s to you and my mother of the last of June, had not then been received, but they must have come to hand soon after, as I have an answer to a letter, which I wrote my brother at NewYork, and which went by the same vessel that carried yours. It seems to me, that a singular fatality attends the passage of my letters, for they are usually three of four months in reaching their destination, and the acknowledgments of them, nearly as long in return. It gives me pain that the solicitude of my parents on account of my health, should have been so long continued, because I am persuaded that their apprehensions must have increased and magnified in proportion to the length of time which elapsed after my illness was known until the assurance of my recovery was received. I will not undertake to express the gratitude I feel for their tender sympathy; it serves to enhance the value of such friends in my esteem, and if I know my own heart, the impression it has made can never be\neffaced. Such affection can only be recompensed by the constant endeavors of the object upon whom it is bestowed to merit its continuance.\n            Your letters have a further claim to my thanks, by the style of partiality which prevails in them, when you notice my communications. I can only hope that the judgment which pronounces upon their merit may not inspire the author, with notions too favorable to his own productions. Without proper deductions however, this might possibly be the case; but my innate veneration for that judgment, suggests the share of allowance which must be made, when it is exercised in a cause to which myself am party.\n            It seldom happens that I can begin and finish a letter of my own at one sitting; official business often intervenes and supercedes of course all attention to private exercises. This will partly account for the interval which has elapsed since the first date of this letter, in addition to which I have passed nearly a week at Amsterdam with my Brother where his business called him, and where he still is.\n            On our way to Amsterdam we spent a few hours with Mr: Luzac at Leyden, who received us with great kindness & hospitality. We found him occupied with his usual labor as Superintendant of the Gazette, which comes from the press of his Brother, and which amidst all the variety of changes & revolutions, that have agitated Europe for seven years past, still preserves its character for accuracy & authenticity, and maintains its rank as the most classical periodical production of the present century.\u2014 In a former letter I mentioned to you the harsh treatment, which Mr: L\u2014\u2014 had received from the late States of Holland, at the instigation of the French Directory. It was true as I stated, that he was prohibited from having any share in the management of the Gazette, during the exercise of his Professorship in the University, but after that Office was taken from him, he was at liberty to resume the humbler, though perhaps not less useful task of an Editor.\n            The conversation, which we had with Mr: L\u2014\u2014 was unrestrained, and to me it was instructive. I admired his fluency and the accuracy of his expression, which had it been employed in delivering a lecture to his pupils, could not have required a greater precision of style. He spoke much of America, enquired the state of our affairs, and seemed to take much interest in the details of our Government, which he has not hesitated to tell the public very lately, he considers\nto be the best modeled & most wisely administred of all the establishments or civil associations known at this day. It will not be difficult for you to conceive, why this eulogium should appear at this particular conjuncture, nor will it surprise you to hear that to numbers in France and this Country such an encomium is peculiarly obnoxious. To such as esteem unity and indivisibility to be the first requisites of a prefect Government, a recommendation of the American system is little less than Treason, or at lowest an high misdemeanor contra maiestatem populi. To such however whose opinions of Federalism are not of the present day\u2019s growth, who have not been terrified or disgusted at the name, notwithstanding the hard & opprobrious terms which have been lavished upon it, to such as are free to think and will think freely, the Constitution under which our Country is now governed, is still held in repute. This class of people is more numerous than is generally supposed, especially in this Country. It is not possible for men to renounce their habits of thought and action, with the same facility as they would put off an old garment, but the doctrine of Revolution and the Apostles who preach it are far from recognizing the existence of any such difficulty. To them every thing is possible that power & force can effect, and it imports them little, by what title such a power is held.\n            It may be noticed as a proof of the attachment, which still prevails in this Country towards a confederate Republic, that a majority of the Constitutional Committee, were in favor of retaining that form, in preference to that of unity, which is so powerfully recommended by their Allies the French, and the Constitution was thus reported. It was made a question during several days in the National Assembly, whether the plan reported was worthy of being deliberated upon, or discussed before that body. The members from the province of Holland were unanimously opposed to it, but their numbers did not equal the remainder, who voted in its favor, and accordingly it was decided to be a subject of deliberation. But a pretext was soon raised for appointing a new Committee of ten persons, to prepare a kind of Supplimentary plan, which is to make some arrangements with regard to the finances of the Country, which are said not to be sufficiently provided for in the first. But a short time is allowed to this Committee for the accomplishment of their labor, and the Constitution is to be held in advice until that shall be completed.\n            It affords the highest satisfaction to learn from your letters, that public affairs have assumed an appearance of durable tranquility\nand a more rational complexion than they had previously borne. All eyes in Europe are turned upon the new-world; To most of the Governments on this side of the water, our\u2019s is an object of equal admiration & envy. If to the wisdom and uprightness which have characterised the administration of our affairs hitherto, should be added an unshaken perseverance in the same system, we shall gradually confirm the operation of the former of these passions, but without diminishing the latter. Should we commit errors therefore, it is easy to predict the degree of satisfaction which numbers would derive from them.\n            The address of the President of the United States to the people of America has been read with avidity here. Many of its sentiments are [too] deeply founded in truth & too forcibly applicable in this Country to be relished; but it has made great impression upon the minds of many people, and will not be less celebrated wherever it is known than was the address of General Washington to the American Army. I enclose to you several of the last Leyden Gazettes, which contain the current news, and in which you will observe a faithful translation of the address; you will not be at a loss to conjecture, at whose instigation it is published. Several Paris papers have given a partial & mutilated sketch of it, which renders more important its appearance in a true shape. As I am in the habit of sending the Gazettes to my Brother at Newyork, I must beg that after you have done with them, you will take the trouble to transmit them to him.\n            Please Sir, to present me kindly to all my Philadelphia friends, and chiefest to my Master Ingersoll, and believe me to be with perfect attachment & respect / Your Son\n              Thomas B Adams.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0214", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 27 November 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            my Dearest Friend\n            Quincy Novbr 27 1796 Sunday Eve\n          Winter has caught you on the Road I presume, for a colder Day than this we seldom have in Jan\u2019ry You will want to hear how the Farming goes on. the Letters inclosed which I received last evening have put it all out of my Head, and almost put out My Eyes to read. no other than the printed Duplicate has come to Hand. I send you both yours and mine, both of which are important at this time when the plots are unfolding. they are a clue to all the whole System of Electionering under foreign influence which in a greater or less degree pervades every state in the union. they will afford but Sorry comfort to You whether destined to publick or Private Life. if to Private, \u201cO! Save my Country Heaven\u201d if we are to receive a President from the French Nation, what is to be our Fate?. to accept the Presidency with Such an opposition, & to know that one is rushing upon the thick bosses of the Bucklar requires the firmest mind and the greatest intripidity. Heaven direct all for the best\n          you will See by the Centinal that poor samuel has no opinion of his own. the House and Senate have however been firm. inclosed is a curious extract from the Washington Gazzett taken from a paper calld the new world.\n          I presume the Fate of America will be decided by the time I get a Letter from You. we are told here that under the Jeffersonian ticket the voters distinguishd themselves by wearing the National cockade. can they have become so openly Dairing and bold? I saw Burks paper calld the Star. it ought to be termd the Chronical Rival, a Hireling wretch, in French pay I Doubt not, a whineing & canting because the French Minister has suspended his functions Our sons Letter is a key to the whole buisness. I have worn out my Eyes to Day in coppying it;\n          The Wall progresses, and the Barn yard has not been neglected.\nthe rails are all brought home and I am reflecting that there is no small probability that you may spend the next Summer at Home. I hope Peace Feild will not suffer a French invasion. I am not however terified. I say Gods will be Done, and hope we are not yet given up to destruction.\n          adieu let Me hear often from you. you know how anxious I am at the events passing before me. poor Johns pride was a little touchd that you should name cooper as a rival in Fame. where will you find a Man of his Age of his Prudence judgment discernment and abilities?\n          My best my Sincerely affectionate Regards to the President and Mrs Washington if any people on earth are to be envyd they are the ones: not for what they have been in power and Authority, but for their transit.\n          once more adieu / ever ever yours", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0216", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Quincy Adams, 28 November 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          William Shaw came from Boston last Evening to keep Sabbeth with me and brought me your Letter of August 16. 1796 which came by way of N York, and one for your Father of 13th. he Sat out for Philadelphia on the 23 of this Month. I forwarded it to him this morning. it was the Duplicate which first came to hand, and tho it almost put out my Eyes to read it, I did, and made a coppy of it before I Sent it on. the contents appeard of so much importance that I thought it might safely be communicated to some persons in confidence for most assuredly your intelligence is well founded. the baneful influence of French principles has infected every part of the union in a greater or less degree. As the Time approachd for the choice of Electors the opperations began. in the first instance a blind order of the Directory for seazing Neutral vessels & treating them as the English had Done was publishd, as a Vague report. then followd a Letter of mr Kings in which it was said that he applid to\nmr Munroe upon the Subject and that he assurd him no such order had been issued the week before the choice of Electors came on and immediatly after Adets return to Philadelphia, his Letter appeard in the Paper Adet came on to Boston in the Month of october. Burr came about the same Time and was constantly closseted with Jarvis Honestus & Eustis and the plan was laid by Burr it is said of putting up G Adams as an Elector. the result you know doubt will learn before this reaches you Your Friend otis was chosen as Rep by a Great Majority, and col Daws as an Elector. not more than half the Electors were Chosen by the people, but to their honour be it told, no antifeaderal Man was even voted for by them except in the instance of Adams. you will see how misarable the old Man is led by the Party in his speach to the two Houses he just barely tells them that they were calld together for the purpose of Chusing Electors not a word of the Presidents Resignation not one solitary word of approbation upon the administration of that Great and good Man Both Houses in their answer are full in their approbation & in their expressions of Love and respect towards him. the House voted to have the Presidents address inserted in their journals so have N York. The Senate & House passt an act empowering the Electors, in case any one by Death or sickness should be prevented attending, then the Electors to ballot for an Elector. the Bill was sent to the G. he signd it, and it past into a Law, but some of his Prime Ministers I suppose told him he had Done wrong, and lost the last Chance he had of preventing a full vote of the State. he was prevaild upon to go and erase his Name from the act. every undue influence has been practised in this Election. The Bribes and intrigues of a Foreign Nation to gains an assendency over our Executive, have much earlier than your Father was aware of proved the truth of his assertions, when he observes in his Defence, That there is a natural and unchangeable inconvenience in all Popular Elections. There are always competitions, and the candidates have often Merrits nearly equal. The Virtuous and independent electors are often divided: this Naturally causes too much attention to the most Profligate and unprincipled, who will sell or give a way their votes for other considerations than Wisdom and Virtue, so that he who has deepest purse or the fewest Scruples about useing it will generally prevail. What would have been our Situation if we had been governd by a Single assembly? When Balanced as our Government is, the progress of corruption is gaining Such ground, that I fear America will never go\nthrough an other Election without Blood shed. we have had a paper War for six weeks past, and if the Candidates had not themselves been intirely passive, Rage and Voilence would have thrown the whole Country into a Flame. you will see by the canvass for Electors in Pensilvana that the State have been nearly equally divided between two Candidates. before I close this Letter it is probable the result of Several of the States will be known. at no period has our National interest been in a more Dangerous, or difficult situation than the present. the Struggles of party and faction run very high. Your Letter to your Father discovers fully all the opperations which are daily unfolding, themselves, and they hold up Dangers and Terrors enough to appall any Man, who has not been accustomed to consider Life & property & what is still Dearer Reputation & Character a Sacrifice Due to His Country\n          \u201cFear takes no hold of me, and makes no approaches to Me that I perceive, and if my Country makes just claims upon me I will be, as I ever have been prompt to share Fates & Fortunes with her\u201d\n          This is the language of Your Father, in a Letter of 27th just received, from him, after as he says the reading of Adets Note. if he adds, I have lookd with any accuracy into the Hearts of my Fellow Citizens, The French will find as the English have found That Feelings May be stirred which they never expected to find there. Since the Discovery of Fauchetts Letter and Randolphs treachery, the people are more on their Gaurd, and watchfull of the Agents of that Nation.\n          And now My Dear Son I quit the Feild of politicks to talk to you of your private Concerns. I am not So contracted in my sentiments as to imagine that you may not have found a kindred Soul out of your own Country. assimilate it to your own, borrow from it all those qualities of energy & activity which may require a stimulous in Your composition, and impart to hers firmness and fortitude which are qualities Youth is least likely to possess and which it is probable her connection with you in the publick Character you sustain she will have more than an ordinary call for, when we take into view her early Seperation from her Parents & country, in concequence of her connextion. tell her that Your Mother has for 30 years been tried worn and innured to Seperations which have torn every fiber of her Heart, under circumstances the most perilious to those She held most Dear. She has been supported through them\n          May you render each other mutually happy and after having Served Your Country with honour and Reputation a broad, may you be\nrewarded with peace & tranquility on Your return to your Native Land and enjoy the confidence You have already merritted.\n          When your Father wrote you, the Letter of June 10th the circumstance of your appointment was altogether unknown to him, for he has ever Done by his Children as by himself. he never askd or solisited of any Man Vote or office for himself or them. What ever he has possessd of honours or offices have been the free will Gift of his Country\n          Your Friend otis is brought forward as a Representitive to Congress. he very deservedly shares the confidence of his constituents. his conduct on all those occasions wherein he has been calld to act, has been Manly firm & consistant. you justly observe that he may be considerd as a fellow Labourer with you in the Good cause. as to Cooper it is not very likly that he will ever rise higher than a Representitive of the Town of Boston I presume, the Meaning of your Father was, that the Services of a foreign Minister were very little known and attended to by the Country in general. those only in the administration of Government knew his Merrits or Demerrits, particularly in times of tranquility, and according to the old adage out of Sight, out of Mind. as it personaly respects You, Your Services have been Duly appreciated, and I rejoice much more in your promotion by the Father of His Country than if you had received it from any other Hand. it must however enhance the value, to know that the Senate were unanimous.\n          by a Letter this moment received from your Father at N york\u2014He says mr Jay and I met last Evening on our anniversary 30th Novbr & were very happy together\n          He observes The French Minister is fullfilling your Sons Predictions, with astonishing exactness but it appears to me that Adet has shewn the Cloven foot so fare that all Eyes must decern it. The Partizens and Ignorant Jacobins boldly say as a threat, if the vice President is made President France will go to War with us! Heavens shall any Nation thus dictate to independant America! What would they say should Britain hold this Language? Here I am again in the midst of politicks when I meant to have quitted them\n          Your Father writes that Your sister and Family were well. they are gone to live at West Chester. Charles increases in buisness and in reputation. His Sally makes him a prudent & good wife they have a Daughter whom out of respect to your venerable Grandmother they have calld Sussanna Boylstone. the Good old Lady always inquires most tenderly after you & Thomas and yesterday past the Day with\nme & gave me in Charge to transmit her Blessing to you both and to tell you that She Sincerely wisht you & yours all Prosperity and happiness\n          I have one request to make you if this reaches you before you leave England. desire Louissa to Set for her Miniature. let it be of the same size with that which you sent me of yours, & send it me with her Hair upon the reverse. in return if I can find a good Artist I will send Her your Fathers and mine. present me respectfully to Mr & Mrs Johnson, and tell Louissa she must write to her and your affectionate Mother", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0220", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 4 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia December 4. 1796\n          After Spending a Day and a Night at East Chester with our Children there and another at Newyork with our Children there I came to this City on Fryday night after a cold ride of 80 miles from Elizabeth Town. There are great Complaints of Want of Water for grinding, for Cattle and for Families through the whole Country.\n          Yesterday I dined with the President in Company with John Watts the King of the Cherokees with a large Number of his Chiefs and their Wives\u2014among the rest the Widow and Children of Hanging Maw a famous Friend of ours who was basely murdered by Some White People. The President dined four Setts of Indians on four several Days the last Week.\n          The French Manoeuvres have gained the Votes of Pensilvania and how many others is unknown. The Election will be a meagre one and I shall not envy it.\n          I shewed the Letters of Mr J. Q. A. to the President who told me that Things appeared to him exactly as they did to his Minister. To Day he has Sent me a Letter to him from Mr T. Paine dated at Paris 20 of September 1795 which he Said was the most insulting Letter he ever recd.\n          Paine accuses the President of Connivance at his Imprisonment in France thinks he ought to have interposed in his behalf and reclaim\u2019d him.\n          \u201cI ought not to have Suspected you of Treachery, but I must continue to think you treacherous, till you give me cause to think otherwise. I am Sure you would have found yourself more at your Ease,\nif you had acted by me as you ought, for whether your Desertion of me was intended to gratify the English Government, or to let me fall into Destruction in France, that you might exclaim the louder against the French Revolution, or whether you hoped by my Extinction to meet with less opposition in mounting up the American Government, either of these will involve you in Reproach you will not easily shake off.\u201d These are his Words.\n          I am told that Mr Pride of Virginia who had the Duel with Mr Carpenter in England went over to France and has return\u2019d to America and brought Packetts and Letters for Mr Jefferson Mr Madison, Mr Giles & Mr Bache, as well as for the Sec. of State.\n          Mr Paines long threatned Pamphlet against the President it is Supposed is Arrived and Mr Bache is to publish it, in the form of a Letter to George Washington. It is even Said that a Patent is to be obtained for the exclusive Priviledge of publishing it.\n          Whether the French Directory have only been drawn in, to favour the Election of a Favourite, or whether in their Trances and Deliriums of Victory they think to terrify America, or whether in their Sallies they may not venture on Hostilities time will discover. Americans must, be cool and Steady if they can. Some of our People may be cured or their extravagant Love, and shaken in their unlimited Confidence. The French Character whether under Monarchical or Republican Government is not the most equitable, nor the least assuring of all Nations. The Fire, Impetuosity, and Vehemence of their Temperament is apt to be violent, immoderate and extravagant. The Passions are always outragious. A Frenchman in Love, must shoot himself or succeed\u2014 A Frenchman in Anger must shed the Blood of his Object, and so of the rest.\n          I hope We shall make two Houses tomorrow.\n          My Duty to my Mother and Love to all", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0221", "content": "Title: John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 5 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n            Philadelphia Decr. 5. 1796\n          As I came through New York, where I found your Sister and your Brother and their families in good health I recd your Letter No. 24. and upon my arrival here, presented it to The President together with the preceeding Numbers to 19 inclusively. I dined with him on Saturday when he returned me the Letters, with an Eulogium. He Said that \u201cThings appeared to him exactly as they do to your son\u201d\n          Your Intelligence is good, and your Prophesies ominous if not infallible. The Plott has opened here with a Note of a Volume from Mr Adet. I Shall make few Observations upon this. But I believe my Countrymen will assert and maintain their Independence. We are not generally intimidated, although it is said that a considerable Body of Quakers were Panick Struck at the Election and abandoned their Colours. The Laurells acquired by this System of Terror, are a Majority of from 20 to 100 Votes in favr of a certain Ticket, made up of the lowest dreggs of the Mob of Philadelphia and the Inhabitants of the Insurgent Western Counties of Pensilvania, against the almost unanimous suffrages of the great farming Counties of York & Lancaster. The Day after tomorrow is the great Election. I look upon the Event as the throw of a Die, a mere Chance, a miserable meagre Tryumph to either Party.\n          If Mr Jefferson is chosen he cannot depart from the system of Washington which is the system of all that is respectable in this\nCountry. I hope the Directory of France will not in a fit of Exultation & Temerity push matters to extremes. if they do they will excite Feelings in this People, which they suspect not. Mr Adets Note has proved an Antidote to the violence of their Passion to many of the most ardent Lovers of France. It will cool Us. it is a febrifuge. an AntiSeptick. it will arrest the rapid progress to Corruption in many.\n          It is our Sincere and universal desire to live on Terms of Harmony and Friendship with The French. If We do not it will not be our fault. But We are not afraid of France. All the Ships she can command or hire, cannot send an Army here that would not Soon decay. I dont love to think a moment of such a Case\u2014 But if they force Us to think of it, our Imaginations must range. Do you my son, reflect on the Consequences of a War forced upon Us by France. as it respects Spain, Portugal Holland Italy Germany All Europe, England her Commerce Navy &c. One Consequence I will mention\u2014 There will be Tories to fly to France, as there were Tories to fly to England\u2014 she will Scarcely compensate them at the Expence of Millions. French Tories will not be venerated in the World much more than the English Tories have been.\n          I shall answer my dear Thomas\u2019s Letter as soon as I can.\n          I am &c with great Esteem as well as / a tender Affection\n            John Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0222", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson, 5 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Johnson, Louisa Catherine\n              Amsterdam December 5. 1796.\n            I have just now received, my dearest friend, your letter of the 15th: of last month, since which I hope you have before now received two from me; and would to Heaven, they could have been such as would have been more conformable to our mutual inclinations, or that I could now give you tidings more agreeable for me to communicate or for you to receive.\u2014 Instead of which a Letter from America, which has this morning come to me, and dated on the 28th: of September, still enjoins upon me to remain [here and] makes it probable that I shall not remove, at least for several months to come. [. . . .] America, that I must hope for the completion of that union which we both [. . . .] wish, and I confidently hope that a greater distance and a longer time of separation, than we had contemplated, will have no more effect upon your affection, than I am sure it will upon mine.\u2014 Let us consider it as one of those counterchecks in the affairs of life, which happen to all, which all must endure whether they will or not, and in which acquiescence is at once a necessity and a consolation.\u2014 Be assured at the same time, my lovely friend, that no length of time nor of space, can have access to the heart of the man you love, to weaken his attachment to you.\n            I have hitherto given you with freedom and sincerity my sentiments, with regard to our common interests and concerns. I have never believed that you would take in ill part what was so well intended, and what I should be so happy to receive in return from you. Between you and me, Louisa, an intercourse of advice and reflection founded upon a mutual unsuspecting confidence is not merely proper; it is in my mind a reciprocal duty. Your assurance therefore that you value the observations I have made gives me the most heart-felt satisfaction, and be assured that I shall always highly value yours.\n            I have been absent about a week from the Hague, on a visit to this place, and expect to return to-morrow. Wherever I go, your\nimage keeps me constant company, and every where, I feel the same vacancy for want of the reality. I never was much delighted with what are called the pleasures of Society, but at present they have less attractions for me than ever: I participate in them therefore only so far as I find it absolutely necessary, and make myself as often as possible a solitude, to enjoy at least, undisturbed the remembrance of you.\n            I have lately seen here Mr: Calhoun, the Gentleman with the fine teeth, whom I met at your house last Winter, when your friend Mr: Maury was there. Mr: Calhoun has since then been to America, and has very lately returned. He is going in a few days to London, where he will no doubt have the happiness to see you.\u2014 It seems to me that every person with whom I have been in company when you were present, derives from thence a sort of merit, in my eyes when I meet him now. There is a kind of reflected cha[rm over ev]ery object that naturally brings your recollection to the mind. I remember still [. . . .] pleasure I saw two or three months ago, my old friend, Mr: Foster, on this account among [. . . .] suppose you have seen him since his return to England.\u2014 How is your good friend and mine, Coll: Trumbull?\u2014 I suppose you will smile at seeing his name here.\u2014 He would smile too if he knew how I once, as Yorick says thought him a Turk or a Jew\u2014Curs\u2019d him by my Gods\u2014Wish\u2019d him at the D\u2014\u2014 innocent as he was of all I feared; but his Peace with me has long been made, and is in no danger of being ever interrupted again.\n            The Weather is shivering cold, and the wind reminds me of the times when we used to walk round or across the park: this brings me to the remembrance of our rides there, and this again to Caroline. Why to her particularly, you say?\u2014 She will know, if her memory is as good as her Spirits. I am thinking of making up a little collection of fine large-sounding guttural Dutch adjurations for her use, to improve upon her English stock. I cannot promise so good a store of puns for Nancy.\u2014 Your Dutch language is good for nothing at a pun. Two senses to the same word would be a kind of prodigality, and if you should hear it talk\u2019d you would think one is more than enough.\n            I finish my letter at the Hague, where I returned yesterday through a number of snow-storms. We have already had more Winter than there was in the whole course of the last Season.\u2014 Remember me\naffectionately to your Mamma and Sisters, and believe me to be, invariably your\u2019s", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0223", "content": "Title: Louisa Catherine Johnson to John Quincy Adams, 6 December 1796\nFrom: Johnson, Louisa Catherine\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          Agreable to my promise of the 29th of writing to my beloved friend once a week I now contrary to etiquette enter upon the pleasant occupation\u2014\n          Surely you will acknowledge\u2014when I tell you you are indebted to me four letters I have amply compensated for my former omission\u2014 I have vainly expected to hear from you but the winds are unfavorable in a word every thing seems to conspire\u2014 I will only say to teach me patience\n          There are I find two Mails due Oh may they prove auspicious to my wishes in bringing me letters\u2014\n          I will not mention the subject which has caused our mutual uneasiness lest it give you pain\u2014 I have promised to exert fortitude and will endeavour to fulfill that promise reason tells me I shall at least acquire resignation if not happiness\u2014\n          Never my beloved friend let my weakness lessen your affection for\nme but write to me constantly and if possible teach my rebellious heart gently to acquiesce without murmering\u2014 Adieu think of me often and believe me with unalterable affection yours\n            Louisa C Johnson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0224", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 7 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            Quincy December 7th 1796\n            \u201cThe Morning lours, the Dawns oer cast\n            And heavily in clouds brings on the Day\n            Big with the fate of Liberty, and Man\u201d\n          on the desicions of this Day, hangs perhaps the Destiny of America, and May those into whose hands the Sacred Deposit is committed be guided and directed by that Wisdom which is from above, and the result prove the prosperity Peace and happiness of our Country. this is My most fervent Wish & petition to Heaven, totally divested of every personal feeling and sentiment.\n          I have twice written to you previous to this Day Which compleats a fortnight since You left me, and in all which Time I have not heard a word from You. I hope tomorrows post will bring me a Letter. We have had one continued turn of cold and dry weather, untill last Evening when the wind blew a Gale from the Southard & brought on rain. to Day it is very Stormy with snow hail & rain.\n          I Sent on our sons Letters in My first Letter. I want to know who is meant by the Pennsilvana Speculator the Intimate Friend of Munroe.? Who was Secretary to the abolition Society in Philadelphia? be so good as to send me the Secretary answer to Adet as Soon as publishd, and every Pamphlet You meet with, worth communicating to your ever affectionate", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0225", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 7 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia Decr 7. 1796\n          I have recd your Letter of the cold Sunday on which I wrote you one from Stratford. In N. York Charles gave me the original Letter, the Duplicate of which you transmitted me. I communicated it to the P. with five preceeding Numbers. After reading them The P. was pleased to say that \u201cMr Adams\u2019s Intelligence was very good, and his Penetration and foresight very great. At least Things appeared to him in Europe exactly as they did to himself here.\u201d He communicated to me T. Paines impudent Letter.\n          This is the very Day the which.\u2014 I laugh at myself twenty times a Day, for my feelings, and meditations & Speculations in which I find myself engaged. Vanity Suffers. cold feelings of Unpopularity. Humble reflections. Mortifications\u2014Humiliation.\u2014 Plans of future Life. Economy. retrenching of Expences. Farming. Return to the Bar. drawing Writs, arguing Causes. taking Clerks. Humiliations of my Country under foreign Bribes. Measures to counteract them. All this miserable Nonsense will come & go like evil into the Thoughts of Gods or Men, approved or unapproved.\n          Cousin Smith is Said to have written Phocian and Murray the Pieces from Maryland. The Election is a Lott at this hour and if my Reason were to dictate I should wish to be left out. A. P. with half the Continent upon his Back besides all France & England old Tories and all Jacobins to carry will have a devilish Load. He will be very apt to Stagger & stumble\n          If the Southern states are as unanimous as the Northern are supposed to be I shall be left out. But it is Said there will be 3 in Virginia & one in N. Carolina against Jefferson. In Pensilvania the Rebells in the West and the corupt Mob of Philadelphia aided by frightened Quakers gave a Majority of from 20 to 100, against the great Agricultural Counties of Lancaster York & Cuberland.\n          It really Seems to me as if I wished to be left out. Let me See! do I know my own heart? I am not Sure. However all that I seem to dread, is a foolish, mortifying, humiliating, uncomfortable Residence here, for two tedious months after I shall be known to be Shimmed, as my Wallmen Speak.\n          I can pronounce Thomas Jefferson to be chosen P. of U. S. with firmness & a good grace. that I dont fear.\u2014 But here alone abed, by my fireside nobody to Speak to, poreing upon my Disgrace and future Prospects\u2014this is Ugly. The 16 of Feb. will soon come and then I take my Leave, forever. Then for Frugality and Independence.\u2014 Poverty and Patriotism. Love and a Carrot bed.\n          Duty to My Mother & Love to all\n            The Federalists are all very confident however of a small Majority. I say and believe that small Majority worse than none. & wish there could have been a large Majority any other Way.\n            dont show this stuff.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0226", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 8 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia Decr 8 1796\n          Inclosed are Some Signal Accomplishments of Prophecies.\n          Be cool and discreet in your Communications of them.\n          No Such Person as Jasper Dwight is known to either of the Senators of Vermont. The Signature is thought to be fictitious.\n          I have no Letter from you later than the Sunday after my Departure.\n          Major Butler has indeed resign\u2019d.\n          They kept back Paines Letter Several Weeks, presuming no doubt that it would not promote their Election. It appeared for the first, this morning.\n          I think, of all Paines Productions it is the weakest and at the Sametime the most malicious.\u2014 The Man appears to me to be mad\u2014not drunk\u2014 He has the Vanity of the Lunatick who believed himself to be Jupiter the Father of Gods & Men.\n          There is a Dr Edwards here\u2014a Relation of Mr Burr & Pierpoint Edwards who has lately return\u2019d from Paris.\u2014 Perhaps he may be the Pensilvanian of whom you read.\n          I can Say nothing of Election. I have recd to Day the Votes of New Jersey but know not for whom they are, as they are under Seal.\n            The Feelings of Friendship excite a Curiosity to know how McKean will vote. By that I shall guess how Gov. Adams would have voted.\n            But I have Seen Friendships of S. Quincy Jona Sewall, Daniel Leonard\u2014Gen. Brattle\u2014Treasurer Grey and fifty others go away like a vapour before political Winds\u2014and a constant Succession of Others go the same Way from that time to this, that I cannot depend upon any Judgment I can form from any Feelings of my own. No private Friendship would induce me to Spare a wrong Political Character. But McKean & Adams can never believe the Lies that are told. If they could vote against me it must be because they think I should not be Supple enough to the French.\u2014 I have known the Time when both of them would have been as Stiff as myself.\n            I feel myself in a very happy temper of Mind\u2014 Perfectly willing to be released from the Post of Danger but determined if call\u2019d to it, to brave it, if its horrors were ten times thicker than they are. I have but few Years of Life left and they cannot be better bestowed, than\nupon that Independence of my Country in Defence of which that Life has ever been in Jeopardy.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0227", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 9 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Quincy December 9th 1796\n          Captain Beal who is always attentive to the post office for me in your absence, brought Me on the Evening of the Seventh your Letter written at Stratford Novbr 27th, which is the only line which has yet reachd me; I fear you sufferd from the cold on the journey, for it has been unusually so, for the Season. the continuence of it, has frozen the Ground very deep. I fear we shall not be able to have our Hill ploughd this Winter. our people get Seaweed and wood. Vesey will remain with me only untill the last of Feb\u2019ry. mr Bass is gone to capt Beals for Six Months. very fortunately there was an opening for him there, Tim having left them.\n          I am of your mind, that prices must fall Genll Lincoln who dinned with Me with his Daughter Polly otis Lincoln last Saturday, on their return from Boston, told me he had not heard such a cry for money,\namongst the merchants for a long time, that he thought there must be some failures. He mentiond having lately made a purchase in Hingham accidently at a vendue, of a House Barns out houses &c said he had no thoughts of its being Struck off to him, but that it would prevent his building, which he was about to Do for his Daughter in Law who was with him\u2014 the House & place he purchased was the one next to that of Dr Herseys & was formerly own\u2019d by the Drs Brother, a Double House lately put in good repair with two Barns one quite new & an excellent Garden full of fruit Trees with Eleven acres of Land for four Hundred & 50 pounds. he observed that he could not build the House for that Money.\n          The Electors all arrived in Boston the Day before the Election and met, in the Eve their great difficulty was respecting a Vice President. they could not agree untill near Evening on the 7th you will see they were unanimous for President, 13. for Princkny 2 for Gov Johnstone of N C, 1 for Mr Elsworth. I am very glad that they were all in season, as it removes one Source of clamour, & the G\u2014\u2014r might as well have let his Name have stood, as recorded his own imbecility by erasing it. we are told that the votes of Vermont will not be legal. we had the Same report respecting Georgia. I cannot believe untill I see it that the old Chief Justice will give his vote against you. I yesterday had the Washington paper of Novbr 16th there is a peice in it, dated Virginna addrest to the Electors of that state. it is a recital of the services you have been rendering Your Country for 30 years back. it is written with a warmth a zeal and an affectionate remembrance of them, beyond any other publication which I have seen.\n          Beals says that Adets Note Does not make any great impression in Boston, that it is considerd as a mere Electionering Scheme. there is however mischief enough in it. I believe this as critical a juncture as any our Country has seen. John Bull will have enough to Do, to take care of his own Calves. he may make Love to us, but we know what value to place upon it. we understand matchs of convenience as well as Adets Chrocodile tricks. with England the questions\n            To Be, or not to Be?\n          is a very Solemn one, and Parson West will be looking for the completition of the Prophesy according to his interpretation. If a very Serious allam, had not taken place, a Mission of so much pomp would never have been addrest to the Directory.\n          I have not yet, a Letter from N york. I hope you will give me some\ninfomation respecting mrs smith and Family as I have not had a line from her for a long time.\n          Mrs Brisler and Family were well yesterday.\n          Yours as ever\n            Abigail Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0228", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 12 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia Decr. 12. 1796\n          I have just recd your favr. of the 4th. I wrote you from stratford New York and from Philadelphia.\n          Adets Note has had some Effect Pensilvania and prov\u2019d a Terror to some Quakers and that is all the ill Effect it has had. Even the southern States appear to resent it.\n          If Col Hamiltons personal Dislike of Jefferson does not obtain too much Influence with Massachusetts Electors, neither Jefferson will be President nor Pinckney V. P. of U.S.\u2014\n          I am not enough of an Englishman nor little enough of a French Man for some People. These would be very willing that Pinckney should come in, Chief. But they will be disappointed.\n          The Letter you Sent me has been read by many and is admired by all. it is impossible it should be otherwise. Hichbourn held the Same Language here.\n          I find nobody here intimidated. Those who wish to Say they are dare not. There is a grand Spirit in the Senate.\n          Giles Says \u201cthe Point is settled.\u2014 The V. P. will be President. He is undoubtedly chosen. The old Man will make a good President too. (theres for you). But We shall have to check him a little now and then. that will be all.\u201d\n          Thus Mr Giles.\n          I am just now come from pronouncing a most affectionate Address of the senate to the President in Answer to his Speech. I felt so much that I was afraid I should cry betray a Weakness. but I did not. I thought I was very firm & cool\u2014 But the senators say that I pronounced it in so affecting a manner that I made them cry.\u2014 The Tears did certainly trickle. The President himself was affected more tenderly than ever I saw him in my Life in pronouncing his Reply.\n          The southern Gentlemen with whom I have conversed, have expressed more Affection for me than they ever did before since 1774. They certainly wish Adams elected rather than Pinckney. perhaps it is because Hamilton and Jay are said to be for Pinckney.\n          I had rather hazard my little Venture in the ship to the Pilotage of Jefferson, than that of Pinckney, or Burr.\n          My old Friend Mc.Kean, had so often expressed his Friendship and Confidence in me, that his Conduct is much censured and ridiculed.\n          Nothing affects me so much as to see McKean, Whitehill, Osgood and even Sam Adams and such Men sett up in opposition to me. It gives such a Specimen of Party Spirit as is very disgusting, very shocking.\n          I am most tenderly yours\n            I remember the time, however, when the Friendship of Sam. Quincy, Jona. sewall Daniel Leonard, Col Brattle & Treasurer Gray and twenty others went away from me in Consequence of political systems & Party Spirit.\n            I remember too an hundred other Instances during the Revolution and Since of declared Friendships giving Way before Jealousy, Envy and Competition or Rather Rivalry that these Things do not shock me as they would have done when I had less Experience.\n            The Inveteracy of Party Spirit is however indeed alarming at present.\n            There have been Man\u0153uvres and Combinations in this Election that would Surprize you. I may one day or other develope them to you.\n            There is an active Spirit, in the Union, who will fill it with his\nPoliticks wherever he is. He must be attended to and not Suffered to do too much.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0230", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 18 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia Decr 18. 1796\n          I went Yesterday at 12 O Clock to the Presbyterian Meeting House in Market Street to hear Dr Rush pronounce an elegant and pathetic Elogium on Mr Rittenhouse the late President of the\nPhilosophical society. He made him out to be a good Man and a great Astronomer & Philosopher. This I agree and if he had not betrayed Jacobinical Weaknesses I should have liked him very well.\n          Dr Euwing is Sick & melancholly. has lost his Wifes fortune by trusting Speculators and has had recourse to imprudent means to raise his Spirits as they Say. He has done preaching for the present at least.\n          It is now Said, but I have not made the Calculations, to be made certain that neither Mr Pinckney nor Mr Jefferson can be President: consequently my Troubles are not far off. Strong in the Confidence of my own Honesty, and favoured by the Appearance of tolerable health and the feeling of Some Strength, I perceive no Consternation at the Prospect.\n          There have not been wanting Insinuations to make me believe that Hamilton and Jay have insidiously intrigued to give Pinckney a Sly slide over my head, and the southern Men Swear, if they had suspected this I should have had all their Votes. I do believe that both of them had rather Pinckney should come in P. than Jefferson be either P. or V. P.\u2014 one of them might believe he should have more Influence with Pinckney than with me\u2014 Both of them might think, that if I was out of the Way, one or other of them might have a better Chance to come in at next Election into one or the other Office. Both of them may have designs or desires of closer Connections with England than I should approve. But whatever cause for these Surmises may exist, they shall make no Impression on my Friendship for those Characters. I believe their Motives were what they recd for publick Good. Jay at least had probably no active share in the Business. H. certainly had.\n          But I think it is now evident that the Southern States have had all these Contingencies in Contemplation and that they preferred me, in either office to Pinckney or Burr, and I am more indebted to the southern states for this Election than to Massachusetts, thirteen of whose Votes were determined I presume by Hamiltons Letters to Higginson, if not to Cabot, and who certainly were willing to sacrifice me, rather than that Jefferson should come in V. P.\n          The common Saying here is that it is an Interposition of Providence that has saved me, defeated Pinckney, and disappointed the English Party as well as the French. The French however are deceived,\u2014I am more their Friend than they are aware of.\u2014\n          I am much mistaken if I do not remove many Prejudices both at home & abroad before the fourth of March. There are manly Ways\nof correcting Errors, that all Men dont perceive. These are confidential Communications from your ever affectionate", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0231", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 19 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia Decr 19. 1796. Monday\n          I have this morning yours of the 9th. Am glad you have mine from Stratford: you will receive others in Succession.\n          I am not much chagrined at the disappointment of ploughing the Hill. The Spring will do. The more Seaweed is procured the better. I need not exhort you to get Wood. I am Glad Mr Bass is provided for. I wish you to expend as little as possible in Labour except for Seaweed and Sledding Stones across the Mill Pond if there should be opportunity, and for a fence against Jona. Bass.\n          The general Delusion of Speculation has involved the great Chiefs. McClenichan is in Trouble his son Stewart left nothing Mr Morris Mr Nicholson Mr Wilson Mr Greenleaf Mr Barclay & many others are talked of as in Such distress as to Spread a general Consternation among the Merchants. I can never enough deplore the Delerium of plunging into Schemes of such vast magnitude and complication, living in Such Pomp and Such Expence upon Property of others\u2014giving Charities, making feasts, Signing Subscriptions, blazing away with Furniture Equipage &c and then discovering that all this is Credit, and that Multitudes of honest People must be involved in distress in Consequence of it. I saw enough at East Chester\u2014 But I had long expected it. Where is the moral Principle?\nwhere is the Modesty? of rolling in Luxury upon the Property of others? I fear that Dishonesty will appear as well as Distress. That large Sums in Trust, will be found misapplied. Trusts violated and prostituted. Give me Poverty give me Death rather than the Sting of remorse for violated Confidence.\n          The Writers in the Chronicle, take great Pains to impute this Stagnation to the Government\u2014But with great Injustice.\u2014 I fear it has arisen from a Defect of the Constitution, in not giving to Congress the exclusive Power of erecting and regulating Banks and limiting even their Power to a moderate sum: But I am cautious and fearful of explaining myself on this Subject.\n          The Bank of Pensilvania has Spread an Alarm. I hope that all others will take Warning.\n          I see that Hamilton is the Object of Chronicle wrath. But Hamilton did not establish the state Banks, and they have had their ful share in the Imprudence and the Mischief.\n          Mr Bloodworth of N. Carolina Said to me this morning he could now congratulate me on the Certainty of my Election as President: But I make no Calculations, as far as I see it is still possible that Pinckney may be P.\u2014 Jefferson I think cannot. The Vermont votes are Safe enough. They are not liable to the objection apprehended.\n          The Alarm which was Spread in Philadelphia & Pensilvania by Adets Note has Subsided. You will see that Congress is not intimidated. Though a Party in the H. is still too Strong. It is cruel that Mass. shd. increase this Party. Bill Lyman went all Lengths. Gen. Dearbourne & Coll Varnum Stop\u2019d short.\n          Mr A\u2019s Letters are in high Reputation. I heard one of the Cabinet Say that Mr A\u2019s Correspondence was the most Satisfactory of any of the Ministers abroad.\u2014 Many have read them and all admire them.\n          But the Sc\u00e6ne which appears to have been played at the House and in the Suite of a foreign Minister at Paris is a Serious Thing\u2014 If our Ambassadors are to harbour the Destroyers of Religion and Government, where are We?\n          If our Ambassadors abroad will not frown on Abuses of their Employers who will. Examples must and will be made.\u2014\n          I am, my dearest Friend, your ever affectionate", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0234", "content": "Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to Abigail Adams, 21 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, Thomas Boylston\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n              My dear Mother.\n            Towards the close of last month I had the pleasure to receive your kind letter of August 16th:. I have been so much occupied since then, that it has been impossible for me to thank you sooner for the agreeable domestic intelligence it contains. I am led to suppose however that at the time it was written, your own health was considerably impaired, especially when you tell me, that at \u201cthis distance I have a sympathetic suffering with you.\u201d in addition to which a letter of September 18 from our Cousin Cranch has confirmed that conjecture, at the same time he informed us that you were upon the recovery. All your letters to me since you heard of my illness, as well as those from my Father, are full of such tenderness and affection that I know not how to express my gratitude, or repay that kindness by words alone, which at this distance are the only means in my power to testify the feelings of my heart. But my parents, I trust, do not require a verbal assurance of my attachment; motives, stronger than duty or mere natural ties, bind me to them, and command every endearing sentiment of my mind. That I may meet them ere long in my native land, never ceases to be the most interesting anticipation which my fancy forms, and that health may attend the prolongation of their lives is the most fervent of my wishes.\n            With regard to myself it is with pleasure I assure you, that my health has been very good for the most part since my recovery. A few infirmities still lurk about me, but I am in hopes to keep them in due subjection by a careful attention to my cloathing and exercise. If I could afford to keep a horse, I certainly should from a persuasion that riding is the best adapted exercise for my habit, but my finances do not admit such an expence, and I endeavor to make my own legs serve me instead of those of another animal.\n            There is an English article of manufacture, which I believe is of recent date, called Fleecy-hosiery, which is strongly recommend to\npeople afflicted with Rheumatic complaints, and which from experience I can affirm to possess qualities of protection from this disorder superior to any thing of the kind yet known. It is manufactured in all the different pieces of underdress or overdress, from the night-cap for the head to socks for the feet. It is doubtless to be had at this time with you, and I would recommend an experiment of it to you, persuaded that you will be benefited by the use of it. The celebrated philanthropist Dr: Buchan, who is in such repute with the ladies especially, for making them the physicians of their families, was one of the first persons of the faculty to point out the excellence and utility of this manufacture and has written a scientific letter to the inventor in praise of it. It was his pamphlet which was put into my hands last winter while I was suffering severely from the rhumatism that first resolved me to try it, and I have not found that he overrates its merit.\n            The desire which your letters and those of my father have so frequently expressed for my return home, it is my intention to gratify in the course of a few months. It seems probable, at present, that my brother will continue here through the Spring, and though in that case I must leave him before the expiration of his mission here I shall probably prolong my stay somewhat beyond the period which I had meditated for my departure hence. A person to succeed my Brother here will doubtless soon be appointed, and he will most likely arrive here before we quit. Who this successor will be I am unable to conjecture, but I sincerely hope it may be some man of respectable talents, but above all of a firm & decided character. To deal properly with these people, to maintain the harmony between the two Countries and at the same time to yield nothing to them but strict justice, the Minister of the United States at the Hague ought to possess those qualities. The mission is one of the most delicate that we have at present, and it becomes daily more & more so. I say delicate, because there is no knowing how soon the French Directory may order the Government of this Country to break of all communication with the United States until they shall redress the wrongs of which the French Republic has reason to complain. This mode of proceeding has of late become so fashionable, that it ought not to surprize the most friendly Nation of the Globe, to find itself without ceremony ranked among the number of those upon which the french Directory is disposed to cast a frown of disapprobation. Through what medium must the Executive of France judge of the character of the American people, if they imagine that incivility and\nharsh treatment will gain their affections? Such a policy is surely not founded upon accurate knowledge of the human temper. But they expect to terrify us into a subserviency to their sovereign will. This being their object, I am not for my single self averse to an experiment of that nature, for I firmly believe that the success of it will be of a description to convince them of its rashness. But experience is evidently not the guide of the French Directory; had it been, they would have learnt a lesson of wisdom from the result of a similar trial upon Portugal and Sweden. A french opposition paper which I meet with some times, contained a few days ago a paragraph of which the following is a translation. \u201cIt is affirmed that the Directory seems little disposed to receive Mr: Pinckney the new Ambassador of the United States of America, and that, because his Government is connected in commerce with England. As whatever is too ridiculous does not merit belief, we contradict this news. None but fools require that their friends should be the enemies of their enemies\u2014 Moreover the whole world has not yet consented to divide itself between France and England.\u201d The opinion expressed in this extract is very generally prevalent, but it appears not to be that of the Directory.\n            Our Anarchists have I presume already received their cue, and the whole doctrine of rewards & punishments has doubtless been rung in the ears of Government, with as much emphasis as it is chimed by the french Minister to the Batavian National Assembly. What a mercenary friendship is that of the french Government at this time!\n            You doubtless see the letters of my brother to my Father soon after they are received, and as he gives all the political intelligence of importance, it is unnecessary for me to repeat it to you.\n            I have lately received letters from my Brother at New York and from W Cranch in which the new married men most egregiously tantalise their single relations, by the flattering colors in which they draw the portrait of their family conditions. One would think that there was no ingredient but enjoyment in the cup of Matrimony, if their estimates are accurate. Bitter or sweet, our family hitherto seem well inclined to taste of it sooner or later. Suppose that I should resolve to perform a prodigy of self denial by shunning the chains of wedlock. It is a tremendous undertaking, but stranger things have happened. I make no promises however. I remember\ncopying a letter from the Minister to you, about this time last year, written at Helvoetsluys, wherein the said person very nearly abjures a family connection, and three months after what was the fate of that lamentation? This is not the first instance of a revolution, of which a female was the principal cause, and it will not be the last, if I have any skill in Augury. It is doubtful whether the final arrangement of the Ministers family matters will be made in Europe, but if not I think he will stay but a short time at the Court of her most faithful Majesty. But I am meddling with other people\u2019s affairs too officiously; you have already a full account from the party concerned.\n            The present is a gay winter at the Hague\u2014Balls\u2014Concerts, Drawing rooms &ca: in abundance. People have thrown aside somewhat of their buckram, and seem to be convinced that melancholy is not the best remedy of itself.\n            Remember me affectionately to all friends round the Blue Hills, and at the expiration of the year 1796 let me express the unfeigned wish of my heart, that the new one may bring with it to one and all the fullest measure of felicity and content.\n            Believe me with love & duty, Your Son\n              Thomas B Adams.\n              I wrote to my Father but a few day since.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0236", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 25 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            my Dearest Friend\n            Quincy December 25 1796\n          Was it ever colder in this Country. the glasses have fallen much below 0, tho a bright sunshine on fryday and saturday. many people froze their feet hands and Ears. I really compasionate you that you must Sleep alone. not one Day here since the 23 of Novbr in which it has thaw\u2019d so as to Drop from the houses. the snow is very level and near a foot deep. our people are getting wood home. Billings has made a New Sled, and if the weather holds we shall sled some stones. water very Scarce. we are threatned with a very hard and cold Winter. we have no preaching to Day. if we had the weather is too cold for Me to venture abroad. I have read G Mifflins Speach. it is more Complimentary than I expected to the President, and is not destitute of patriotick sentiments as it respects our Country. he probably thought an atonement necessary for the part Pennsilvanna had taken in the late Election. Abraham ventured not so far as to limit his Number to one Righteous Man, when he plead for the city. I would hope however that both Virginna & Pennssilvana have a much larger Number. the Hungry Patriots, we are informd have run beyond the bounds of their credit. I do not compasionate them. their fall will serve as Warnings to others, & eventually benifit the publick. the numerous Banks I hope will be diminishd, and a more rational system, than these immense speculations, these Phantom Nabobs, will Succeed to them, upon more solid and durable foundations. the President in his speach and the Senate in their reply notice the inadequate compensation of publick officers. I am informd that in the Houses answer, the first Draught of which was sent on last week as agreed to in committe, that no notice was taken of that part of the speach. it is an evil of no small Magnitude, and will in the event prove dishonorable to our Country as well as Dangerous.\n            [\u201c]Dovoid of decent show,\n            How soon does power to trampled Weakness grow?\n            How soon base minds the feeble judge deride\n            And beggar\u2019d rulers quake at Wealthy Pride?\u201d\n          We have so many restless Spirits in the union that I am at a loss to know who in Particular you allude to. Pains pamphlet can do no\nHurt. I most sincerely wish it circulated it is so opposite to the Voice of the Nation, so low & Vilely abusive that neither he or Jaspir can do any other service, than open the Eyes of the Blind. I am at a loss for the politicks of Virginna, unless they intended that Burr should not be V P. I had no Idea but that those who voted for Jefferson, would vote also for Burr in that state. it was quite a surprize giving 14 to S A. their policy was however weak, and their judgments wholy warped by Faction our News papers declare the Election, and have hopes of an additional Number of votes. Yet no person mentions the station, but as a post of difficulty and Danger. I could sincerely Join with Dr Clark and say in the words of Moses, when looking to the Mount, If thou o Lord go not up with us, carry us not up theither.\n          I have not any Letter from you of a later date than the 12th I should be glad of a post Note, at the New Year. My Blacksmith & Coach Mender &c call to settle for the Year. I should have been glad to have taken up Genll Lincolns Note, before he goes on to Philadelphia\n          The minority in the House of Reps is small. they ought to Blush if they had any generous feelings they would. is there one of them all whose Character if Weighd by the hand of Justice, and Virtue honour & probity were put in the Scale, would not its opposite fly up & kick the Beam?\n          consistant in wrong measures, poor Reptiles, censure is Your Due, and that from the pen & Heart / of Your affectionate", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0237", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 27 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My Dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia Decr 27. 1796\n          I recd yours of the 14 on Fryday: but had no Letter on Monday.\n          According to present appearances, Jefferson will be Daddy Vice, and between you and me I expect you will soon See a more ample Provision made for him, that he may live in Style\u2014and not be obliged to lodge at Taverns and ride in Stage Coaches. I See plainly enough that when your Washingtons and Adams\u2019s are Stowed away our dear Country will have a gay Government. I cannot help these injudicious Extreams into which People will run, nor these invidious Partialities.\n          The Rumours of Peculation and Want of Probity as well as want of Fidelity to Trusts are allarming & afflicting. My Old Friends Mifflin, McKean Ewing, exhibit despicable and detestible Phenomena for Governors Judges & Heads of Colledges, as their Conduct is represented daily in public Companies. I know nothing more.\u2014 McKean indeed is only charged with a little too much Madeira and Infidelity to Friendship and political Principle.\n          Whatever the French may Say without stammering or with Swaggering, the American People will not be frightened by them.\n          Swan came to visit me, as well as Tenche Coxe. What a Puppy this last? He left his Card. I was at home when the other came and had a Conversation with him civilly enough.\u2014\n          The Prospect before me, opens many Questions and Inquiries concerning House, Furniture, Equipage, Servants and many other Things which will give me trouble and occupation enough and the more because you will not be here\u2014 Luckily for you\u2014 I should tremble for your health if you had all the Visits and Ceremonies to go through and all the Preparations to make.\n          71 is the Ne plus ultra\u2014it is now certain that no Man can have more and but one so many\u2014 if no irregularity appears to set aside Votes 71 will carry the Point. I know of no irregularity. The suggested one of Vermont appears without foundation. I am affectionately", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0238", "content": "Title: Charles Adams to John Adams, 28 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, Charles\nTo: Adams, John\n            New York December 28 1796\n          Your kind letter of the last week I have received. Your ideas respecting a young man\u2019s having a Record of a regular education in the Law I think are perfectly right with regard to my Young friend Malcom his age will not permit his taking an examination until near fifteen months after he leaves my office which will be in June next His uncle Mr Joshua Sands is his guardian and has since my first acquaintance with him been such a friend as is not to be ranked among the many It has been Mr Sands object to give my pupil as good an education as this State can afford knowing that the fortune left to him is such that he will not be obliged to toil through the drugery of the law for a maintainance he had proposed to send him for a year or two to Europe and if possible to procure him the place of Secretary to Mr King. I wish not to say too much of the merits of my el\u00e9ve but it would be wrong to conceal the gratitude I owe not only to him as one of the most attentive students I ever knew but to\nhis family and connections who have invariably endeavored to promote my interest and wellfare\n          The multiplicity of Banks and unlimited Speculations have caused the most deplorable scarcity of money The calculation of money now due to our Merchants from England and France is enormous. The failure of payment of petty debts creates a distress that can hardly be conceived I can give you a specimen which I know is not singular I had the other day many outstanding debts in the way of my business to the amount of about two hundred and fifty dollars and those due from perhaps sixty different people I wanted to collect them and spent two days in the business and obtain[ed] but eight dollars. The complaint is universal [\u2026.] man whose word would pass for fifty thousand dollars tells you he cannot command twenty at the moment. Tom Paines pamphlet I have read I shall make no comments but give the Motto I think the American People will give to it\n            \u201cHic Jacet Thomas Paine\u201d\n          My dear Mother has this day sent me a pamphlet containing a sett of papers under the signature of Aurelius, they are well intended though the author does not discover a knowlege of the minutia of business Infinitely more might have been said: Whatever confidence you may place in me shall be sacred and on this declaration I would inquire what if any has ever been the coolness between Hamilton and yourself. I have been informed and that by a person although he will lie could not have hoped to escape detection in this instance That Hamilton had declared in his presence in the Chancellors, Brockholst Livingstons, and Troups that his most earnest and sincere wish was that Pinkney might be elected President. If So \u201cThere\u2019s something rotten in the State of Denmark\u201d My dear Mrs Adams and her little one who if she could speak would join us send to you the compliments of the season and that my fathers conduct may during his life be admired by the virtuous is the ardent wish and the assured hope of his / Affectionate son\n            Chas Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0239", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Charles Adams, 29 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, Charles\n            My dear Brother\n            The Hague December 29. 1796\n          It is a long time since I have had the pleasure to receive any letter from you. I suppose you spend so much time in dandling your offspring that you have none left to think of Collaterals. But what makes me most impatient is that you do not send us even the Newspapers until they are six months old. Here have arrived since the beginning of the Summer twenty or thirty vessels from New York direct & I have two or three lines from you just to tell me that you will soon write me more fully. Here are other people have New York papers to the last of October, and I have them to some time in August. So much for Scolding.\n          At present I enclose you a couple of letters, which I recommend to your particular care. I know not whether there is a regular Post from New York to Quebec, but if not I dare say you will easily find an opportunity to forward the letter destined there by a private and safe opportunity.\n          As to business I hope to hear from you soon.\u2014 If you should meet with a good opportunity to employ advantageously a couple of thousand dollars more for me, draw upon me for that sum. But remember I say advantageously. That is at something considerably beyond mere legal interest, without however any thing illegal, which I always understand to be expressly forbidden in the use of my money. Take an advantageous time for the course of exchange, but in this particular you may accommodate more or less according to the benefit with which you place the proceeds. Do not be in a hurry to draw, but do not let slip any good chance. The terms as between you and me are understood to be as heretofore. As it is possible that before you find occasion to draw, I may be removed from this place, you will direct the payee of your bills to apply to Messrs: W & J Willink at Amsterdam, in case of my absence, and they will take care to discharge your draft.\n          You will write me however without waiting to hear of my departure from hence, and do not forget a statement of accounts between you and me at the close of every year. If I were not afraid you would think me Mentorial, I should recommend to you to keep the accounts regular and in a mercantile manner, because between order\nand confusion, caeteris paribus, the former is upon the whole preferable.\n          I could write you a letter a week long, upon the politics of America and Europe; but I believe it would not do much good; I remember you wrote me some time ago, that the People (or as the Boston Honestus always prints it, THE PEOPLE) of America scorned to be Governed by french art or british insolence, but as this is a time of Revolutions & variations, I am curious to see how they will conduct themselves between french insolence and british art. The experiment is making, and I hope our countrymen will prove under it that they are not to be frightened, any more than they are to be intrigued into political dependence upon any European power.\n          France and Britain will not make peace yet. France and Austria may, but it is not very probable they will. Another year of war threatens the world. Another year of wisdom, caution, perseverance and firmness, is necessary to keep our Country out of it. Heaven grant that they may be successfully exerted. For if we are once entangled in this war, we are irretrievably tacked to the destinies of Europe, and must be made the perpetual tools and victims of every struggle that avarice or ambition may stir up in this hemisphere. We must fight to give the Netherlands to France, or Gibraltar to Spain, to change a Popedom into a Republic or a federalism into an indivisibility. If we escape this time, we shall have an example and a precedent for futurity and the blessings of peace will be secured to us by the benefits of experience. There will probably never arise a quarrel in Europe upon a question calculated so strongly to interest our feelings as that with which the present war began, but there never can be one with which we have less concern, than that upon which it is now continued. It is no longer a contest between despotism and liberty, since France is in alliance offensive and defensive with Spain, and upon terms of close intimacy with Prussia. It is no longer a contest for the Conquest of France since a general peace is offered them for a mutual restoration of Conquests, and they continue the war for the sake of retaining them.\n          You will get the news from the papers. Remember me with affection to my Sisters and be assured of the invariable tenderness of / your Brother", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0240", "content": "Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 30 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Adams, Abigail\n            My dearest Friend\n            Philadelphia Decr 30 1796\n          The Prospect that opens upon me presents Troubles enough of every kind.\u2014 I have made Some Inquiry concerning Horses and Carriages, and find that a common Chariot of the plainest Sort cannot be had under Twelve hundred Dollars, and if you go to a little more ornament and Elegance you must give fifteen hundred. The President has a Pair of Horses to sell, one 9 the other 10 Years old for which he asks a thousand Dollars. And there is no Probability of procuring a decent Span for less than Six hundred dollars.\n          House Rent, another indispensable Article will be extravagantly high.\u2014 The Plenty of Paper, has unsettled every Thing. Nothing has a Price. Every one asks and every one cheats as much as he can, I think.\n          I wish I knew what would be asked for a Chariot in Boston.\n          The President Says he must sell Something to enable him to clear out. When a Man is about retiring from Public Life and sees nothing but a Ploughshare between him and the Grave, he naturally thinks most upon that. When Charles the fifth resigned his Empire and crown, he went to building his Coffin\u2014 When I contemplated a Retirement I meditated the Purchase of Mrs Veseys Farm and thought of building a Tomb on my own Ground adjoining to the burying Yard.\n          The President is now engaged in his Speculations upon a Vault which he intends to build for himself, not to Sleep but to lie down in.\n          So you See, my little head is made like two great heads and I have ambitiously placed myself between them.\n          Mrs Blodget, who I dare say is more desirous that you should be Presidante than that I should be Presidant, Says She is afraid President Washington will not live long. I should be afraid too, if I had not confidence in his Farm and his Horse.\n          He must be a fool, I think who dies of Chagrin, when he has a fine farm and a Narragansett Mare that Paces, trots and canters. but I dont know but all Men are such fools.\n          I think a Man had better wear than rust.\n          The Boyish Language of the Emissaries from Monroes Academy is not confined to Boston Market.\u2014 Captn. Barney is holding the Same Cant.\n          John Adams must be an intrepid to encounter the open Assaults of France and the Secret Plotts of England, in concert with all his treacherous Friends and open Enemies in his own Country. Yet I assure you he never felt more Serene in his Life. Yours most tenderly", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0242", "content": "Title: Louisa Catherine Johnson to John Quincy Adams, 30 December 1796\nFrom: Johnson, Louisa Catherine\nTo: Adams, John Quincy\n          I have recieved your letters which afforded me infinite pleasure as they assured me you were well and in good spirits\u2014\n          You tell me you are to remain at the Hague, and that you hope a greater distance, and longer time of seperation than we had contemplated, will have no effect upon my affection\u2014 I am almost angry when I read that part of your letter, as it implies a sort of doubt which I am sure I cannot have merited. no my beloved friend e\u2019re my affection ceases I shall cease to breathe\u2014\n          I will endeavor to answer yours of the 21st of Novb, which I confess did not please me, as it too plainly evinced how little credit you give to what I said upon the same subject in a former letter. I again repeat it. our seperation is fortunate, as it will be the means of preventing my forming any ambitious views and keeping me in the station to which I have been accustomed, indeed I am very fearful I should not have been sufficiently convinced of the honors acquired,\nhad our union taken place before you went to Portugal\u2014 Do not be offended, for I must write as I feel and I value too much your good opinion to risk the loosing of it. but had flattered myself I had fully satisfied you relative to my prefering domestic felicity to the alloy of ambition or parade\u2014\n          I am apprehensive upon reflection that all your fears proceed from my conduct before you quitted England\u2014 perhaps I appeared too anxious to go with you, but your Louisa was so little guided by reason, and so much by the impulse of the moment, that she thought not of impropriety untill too late. as it is I would give worlds to recall the past, but it cannot be and I must be more cautious\u2014\n          I am well convinced and was before you left us that you could not take me with you, therefore do not tax you with insensibility, but as I have very little natural philosophy I must copy yours, and say, \u201cas long as we cannot command events, we must necessarily learn to acquiesce in them, and the more carefully we prepare for them, the more easily we content ourselves under them\u2014[\u201d]\n          People tell me I am much altered, I believe I am and sometimes am inclined to think that when we meet you will cease to love me, as I really am not the Louisa you were acquainted with\u2014 I am so miserably dull, stupid, and cross, that I have gained the appellation of the Nun, yet I have ceased to repine, and find that though it may not be possible totally to eradicate the thorn of disappointment, prudence may nevertheless prevent its growing to any height\u2014\n          I am sorry to understand from mr. Colhoun, that your Brother is soon to return to America. had you been enabled to leave Holland I should not have regreted it so much, as I would have endeavored by becoming your companion, to alleviate the regret occasioned by the loss of his society\u2014\n          Mr. C. on his arrival paid us a visit. he turned to Nancy and told her, he had seen her best friend, left him in very good health and supposed she had given up all idea of going to America. I could not help smiling at the mistake\u2014\n          Coll. Trumbull is a great man therefore we do not see him often\u2014 Poor Mr. Alexander is universally allowed to be quite insane\u2014 I have never ceased to lament my folly and ill nature, and really am ashamed to hear his name. I hope long before this you have destroyed those ridiculous lines, I am sure they do no credit to the writers heart\u2014 I have not seen Mr: Foster since his return\u2014\n          Adieu my beloved friend that heaven may grant you every\nblessing, is the sincere and constant prayer, of [your] / Truely affectio[nate]\n            Louisa C J[ohnson]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0243", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 31 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Adams, John\n            my Dearest Friend\n          I received by the last post, Your Letters of the 14th. 16th 18th & 19th. The frequent and repeated fires in the various capitals of Savanna Baltimore and N york are really shocking, but renderd vastly more allarming from the opinion that they are the effect of design, and not accident. I fear America will be the harbour and assilum of the Dissolute and abandoned of the Nations of Europe, unless more vigilence is adopted with respect to foreigners. I have had many congratulatory compliments in the Week past upon the supposed certainty of your Election. they have not however been unmixd with the alloy which every person sees the station is subject to. Some of the Jacobins in Boston I was told, declared they were glad you were Elected, for now they knew they should be governd by Principles, and not Names. they say H would be the President, and P. the puppet. with respect to mr Jay You know that I believe him an upright honest Man, not given to intrigue, and incapable of Deserting an\nold and long tried Friend, a Man of Honour a Man of Principle a Man of Religion. You may recollect, that I have often said to you, H\u2014\u2014n is a Man ambitious as Julius Ceasar, a subtle intriguer. his abilities would make him Dangerous if he was to espouse a wrong side. his thirst for Fame is insatiable. I have ever kept My Eye upon him. he has obtaind a great influence over some of the most worthy and amiable of our acquaintance whom I could name. He has allways busied himself in the Election of V P. as you well know.\n          I received a Letter from an old Friend and correspondent this week who writes thus,\n          \u201cThe Election of our friend I hope is sure the only adverse chance is that which favours Mr Pinckney, and if he has the North Carolina votes I think he will be Elected there being every reason to suppose that the other four southern and western states will give him their support. I was more apprehensive of Danger from this quarter than from any other, and before we proceeded to vote, the matter was fully discussed, so that if by her own votes Massachusetts should bring into the Chair a south Carolinian, of respectable Character it is true, but with little or no experience in the Domestic politicks of the union, and exclude a citizen of her own, whose experience station and qualifications, give him the highest pretensions to the office, she will have acted with her Eyes open, and must blame herself for her impolicy.\n          The fact is as I am informd from high Authority in N York, that a plan was there laid by a quondum secretary to bring in mr Pinkney, and that it was confidentially extended thro the continent. that Letter was put into the N york post office on the 30 Novbr, and was deliverd to me at our post office on the 14th instead of the 7th of when it was undoubtedly in Boston. had I then received it I should have enforced the Argument for reducing the votes for mr Pinckney, and explaind the motives of some of the Electors who were for giving him a full vote. one of these confessed that he had been conferring with a Senator, and some Members of the House of Rep\u2019s of Congress from this state, through whose instrumantality, this plan was undoubtedly communicated. I confess the conduct of that elector was to me Enigmatical untill I received the Letter.\u201d E. G.\n          you may judge from the Statement here made, that the high Authority was aware of the snare, and exerted himself to ward of the blow. H. is as much suspected here as he is with you, and for the Reasons given by the Jacobins. they say H.  knows you will\nnot be governd. I am ready to think that Enmity to Jefferson was the prevailing Motive. Jefferson I hope will succeed. I believe the Government would be more conciliated, and the bitterness of Party allayd the former Friendship which subsisted between you would tend to harmonize, and Moderation coolness and temperance would reconcile the present jaring interests to concord this is my hope, and I do not Despair of seeing it effected you know my Friendship for that Gentleman has lived through his faults and his errors, to which I have not been blind but most sincerely regreeted them. the whole Election has been a jugal, in which You have been an inactive Spectator. the Bostonians Pretend to be very Angry with the South Carolians. Massachusetts however seems to have been a Dupe.\n          my Letters are confidential. I wish you would burn those which might be injurious if by any accident exposed.\n          I inclose to you an extract of a Letter From Thomas to his Friend J Q, dated october 9th by a vessel from Amsterdam. I had not any Letters\n          Weather yet very cold adieu, and a good Night for it is Bed Time, so Dream / of your", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0244", "content": "Title: Abigail Adams to Elbridge Gerry, 31 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, Abigail\nTo: Gerry, Elbridge\n          Your obliging favour of December 28th, I received by the Hand of Dr. Welch. I thank you Sir, for your Congratulations, which receive their value from the Sincerity with which I believe them fraught. The elevated station in which the Suffrages of our Country have placed our Friend, is encompassed with so Many Dangers and difficulties, that it appears to Me a slipery Precipice, surrounded on all sides, with Rocks Shoals and quicksand.\n          There is not any Man, in whom again, can be united, such an assemblage of fortunate circumstances, to combine all Hearts in his favour, and every voice in unison, as has been the Singular Lot of the President of the United States. yet even he, with the full tide of favour, and affection, has tasted the bitter Cup of Calumny and abuse, an imported Cup, a foreign Mixture, a poison so subtle as to have infected even Native American. What must a successor expect who has near half the Country opposed to his Election? as well as all the Friends of the Rival Candidates mortified at their Defeat.\n          You Sir, have been too long conversant in publick Life, and full well know, \u201cthe pangs and Heart acks\u201d to which it is subject, not personally to mix commisiration, with Your Congratulations\n          At my Time of Life, the desire and wish to shine in publick Life is wholy extinguishd.\n          Retirement to (Peace Feild, the Name which Mr. Adams has given to his Farm) is much more eligible to me, particularly as my Health has Severely Sufferd by my residence at Philadelphia. But personally I shall consider myself as the Small Dust of the balance, when compared to the interests of a Nation. To preserve Peace, to support order, and continue to the Country that system of Government under which it has become prosperous and happy, the sacrifice of an individual Life, important only to its near connextions, ought not to be taken into consideration.\n          I fully agree with you in sentiment as it respects the Election of Mr Jefferson. I have long known him, and entertain for him a personal Friendship, and tho I cannot accord with him in Some of his politicks, I do not believe him culpable to the extent he has been\nrepresented. placed at the Head of the Senate, I trust his conduct will be wise and pruden[t, and] hope it will be a means of softning the animosity of Party, and of cementing & strengthining the bond of union.\n          There never was any publick, or Private, animosity between Mr Adams & mr Jefferson. upon the subject of Pains Rights of Man, there was a dissagreement in sentiment. Mr Jefferson \u201cdoes not look quite thro the Deeds of Men\u201d Time has fully disclosed whose opinion was well founded.\n          The Gentleman you alluded to as an active Agent in the Election, has no Doubt his views and designs. there are some Characters, more supple, than others, more easily wrought upon, more accommodating, more complying Such a person might be considerd as the ostensible Engine which a Master Hand could work. To what other motive can be asscribed the Machiavelian policy of placeing at the Head of the Government a Gentleman not particularly distinguishd for any important Services to his Country, and scarcly heard of beyond the state which gave him Birth, untill sent upon a publick Embassy.\n            \u201cCoruption wins not more than honesty\u201d\n          I feel Sir when addressing you the confidence of an old Friend, and that an apology is unnecessary for the freedom of communication.\n          Be pleased to present My compliments to mrs Gerry. it would give Me pleasure to receive a Friendly visit from her and from you. I am Dear sir with sentiments / of Respect and Esteem / Your Friend and Humble Servant\n            Abigail Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/04-11-02-0245", "content": "Title: John Quincy Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson, 31 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Johnson, Louisa Catherine\n            The Hague December 31. 1796.\n          Since my Letter of the 20th: I have not enjoyed the pleasure of receiving any from my friend, but I do not forget the mutual engagement of writing every week, and I cannot close the year in a better or more agreeable manner than in conversing with her\u2014 There are some particulars in your Letters of Novr: 29. and Decr: 6. which require a reply from me, which time did not allow me to give in my last.\u2014 You request me not to resign any situation on your account contrary to the wishes of my friends and family.\u2014 But it is neither my intention nor the wish of my friends and family that I should hold for a permanency any situation whatever in Europe. America is my Country; there all my hopes and all my intentions centre, and I know not of any misfortune that could befal myself personally, which I should consider as more severe than that of being condemned to a constant residence in any part of Europe. The inclinations of my friends are perfectly coincident with my own, and they have more than once intimated to me a wish to have me return home as speedily as possible. This is my own settled determination which I shall effect whenever my duty to the public, and to your interest will permit it. Nor will I disguise to the friend of my heart, that one of the consolations which I derive from reflection upon the necessity we are under of postponing our union, is that a different Event might have contributed to reconcile me to a European residence, and to lengthen it beyond the period assigned by my own duties, my own interests as well as those of the public.\n          Your anxiety least the application which is at present my diversion and employment should affect my health deserves my gratitude, as I behold in it an unquestionable token of your affection.\u2014 It will make me more anxious than perhaps I might otherwise be, to preserve that kind of temperance the want of which is the most excusable.\u2014 Yes; I will often retire from my books to the other delight of my heart, to the remembrance of you, as the only compensation for abstaining from a pardonable excess.\n          I do not however apprehend that the health can be affected materially by any ordinary degree of application, and I must not discard\nthe remembrance that it is the labour to which my life is destined, and which I therefore must not relinquish; that to abandon myself to habits of indolence for the sake of a robuster health, would be to sacrifice a jewel for a pebble, and prove in the end equally degrading to my character and ruinous to my affairs.\n          You will perhaps think that I have become very suddenly so rigorous in the estimation of my time, and will remember the time when I was much more indulgent to myself. I readily confess it, but former negligence only increases the necessity for future attention.\u2014 For a long interval of idleness my reason accepts the apology of my heart, but at the same time points out the necessity of repairing by present and future industry the losses of that period.\u2014 Do not therefore my lovely friend discourage me from the continuance of those pursuits which are suitable to my character and confer upon it its only value; and make yourself perfectly easy with regard to my health, with the assurance that I shall be particularly cautious to avoid any degree of application that will be likely to affect it.\n          I mentioned in my last Letter the grounds upon which our union before my own return to America will be impossible, and my opinion that it would not be advisable to propose to your father to come to this Country, in order to embark from hence for America. You may be perfectly sure that your intimations to me on this subject will be held by me in that special confidence which you recommend. Indeed I consider everything that passes between you and me concerning our mutual views and interests, in this light of intimate and exclusive confidence. I write and read every thing of this nature with the idea constantly impressed upon my mind, and persuade myself that you do the same.\n          Farewell, my best Friend: I am in hourly Hopes of your Letters, and remain with / constant affection, ever your\u2019s", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1714", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 1 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, John\nMy Dear Sir.\nLondon January 1. 1796.\nI wrote you so copiously, a few days since, that I can embrace the present opportunity only to offer the tribute of my duty and affection on the commencement of the new year, and to enclose a few papers and a review which may perhaps afford an hour of amusement.\nNo news of importance has transpired since the date of my last Letter. The communication between the Continent and this island is at present interrupted more than usual from the inclemency of the Season, and from an Embargo, which it is said has been extended to all the Ports in France. It is certain at least that there have been during the last ten or twelve days no arrivals from thence.\nOur accounts from America are as late as the beginning of December. We expect therefore by the first arrivals to hear of the meeting of Congress. There is so much depending upon the event of their proceedings, that we are waiting with anxious impatience to hear what they will be.\nI remain with every affectionate and grateful Sentiment, your Son\nJohn Q. Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1715", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 7 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, John\nMy Dear Sir\nLondon January 7. 1796.\nI have a few papers to send you, and cannot omit the occasion to say a few words, though I have but very few to say.\nOur own affairs are at a stand. Mr: Pinckney will be here in the course of this week, and I have not chosen to do any thing conclusive before his return.\u2014I believe there are people here, who like Publicola much better than they think of its reputed author. You have long known, that a real republican, will never be a favourite at a Court. It must be a very extraordinary accident, that can give him favour even with the people.\nThe present is a moment of political stagnation. The intercourse from France is restored; but no very important information has come from thence of late. The forced loan, is collecting with unexpected facility, and in general an uncommon degree of tranquility prevails.\nThe long expected battle on the Rhine, is yet expected. Nothing material had happened there on the 18th: of last month.\u2014you will observe in the papers that Trincomale is taken.\u2014Lo! another proof of commercial ambition. The Spices of Ceylon are worth engrossing.\u2014Poor Holland. Oh! Had she but known how to be neutral.\nThe prospects of Peace, in which I have never placed much faith have vanished almost entirely. Another campaign is to be tried. I can hardly think it will go beyond that.\nYour affectionate Son.\nJohn Q. Adams.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1716", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Samuel Meredith, 8 January 1796\nFrom: Meredith, Samuel\nTo: Adams, John\nSir\nTreasury of the United States January 8th. 1796\nMy Specie Account for the quarter ending the 30th: September 1795 having passed the Offices permit me, through you, to lay it before the Honorable the Senate, and to assure you that / I am Sir / Your very humble servant\n            Saml Meredith Treas.\n              of the United States", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1718", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 16 January 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Adams, John\nState of the Fortifications of the United States.War Office, January 16th, 1796.\nPortland, in the District of Maine.\u2014The works consist of a fort, a citadel, a battery for ten pieces of cannon, an artillery store, a guard house, an air furnace for heating shot, and a covered way from the fort to the battery.\nThe works are substantially executed, excepting the covered way; to complete this, the earth on the spot being of a bad quality, with the necessary supports of stones and sods, is estimated at four hundred dollars. Levelling the earth round the works, fencing the land pertaining to them, a pump for the well, painting the wood work, and rendering the whole perfectly complete, the estimate is four hundred and seventy-one dollars, in the whole eight hundred and seventy-one dollars.\nPortsmouth, New Hampshire.\u2014The works consist of a fort, a citadel, an artillery store, and a reverberatory furnace. These are all completed, excepting a little carpenters\u2019 work, suspended to let the wood season, and which may cost about fifty dollars. But a small and unforeseen expense must be incurred, for a drain to carry the water from the magazine, and may cost one hundred dollars.\nGloucester, (Cape Ann.)\u2014The works consist of a battery and a citadel. These are completed. But to enclose the fort, towards the town, the cost is estimated at one thousand four hundred dollars. This, however, may be postponed till circumstances require it to be done.\nSalem.\u2014The works, consisting of a fort and citadel, have been erected.\nA gate remains to be made, and some repairs to the walls.\nMarblehead.\u2014A battery and a citadel have been erected. Any other works may be suspended until circumstances shall change.\nNewport, in Rhode Island.\u2014For the defence of this harbor there have been erected, on Goat Island, a fort, a citadel, and an air furnace. The excellency and importance of this harbor, in time of war, recommend a further expenditure, to render the defence complete. To finish the fort, erect an artillery store, and make a covered way round it, as in a regular fortification, the expense is estimated at about six thousand dollars.\nThere have also been erected a citadel on Tammany Hill, back of the town of Newport, for the protection of its inhabitants, and a battery and guard house, at Howland\u2019s Ferry, at the northern end of the island; to keep open a communication with the main, in case of an invasion. But, to secure effectually this communication, a citadel should be erected on Butts\u2019 Hill, that position commanding Howland\u2019s Ferry and Bristol Ferry. The cost of it is estimated at eighteen hundred dollars.\nNew London.\u2014The works consist of a fort and a citadel, on the Groton side of the harbor, and a fort, a citadel, and an air furnace, on the New London side. They remain incomplete. Under present circumstances, a small expenditure may be proper, merely to preserve what has been done.\nNew York.\u2014Governor\u2019s Island has been fortified with a fort made of earth, and two batteries under its protection, partly lined with brick masonry, two air furnaces, a large powder magazine, and a barrack for the garrison; the whole completed.\nPhiladelphia.\u2014 A large pier, as the foundation for a battery, on a sand bar, opposite Mud Island, to make a cross fire, has been completed. A fort, on Mud Island, is about half done, and a citadel has been erected to complete the fort, and on a plan much more circumscribed than was at first projected. The expense is estimated at fifteen thousand dollars.\nWilmington, in the Delaware State.\u2014Nothing has been done. The project of erecting a fort there has been abandoned as useless.\nBaltimore.\u2014A battery and barracks have been constructed, and some guns are mounted.\nAnnapolis.\u2014Some progress had been made in the construction of a fort and battery, and a barrack has been erected. But an examination of the works by an engineer, other than the one first employed, produced an unfavorable report of the plan of the works; and, under actual circumstances, induced a reliquishment of them.\nA similar report as to the plan and situation of the work at\nAlexandria, induced a like reliquishment.\nNorfolk.\u2014Two forts, intended to cross their fire, are erected on the opposite sides of the harbor. The one on the Norfolk side, with barracks and a powder magazine, is completed. The other, Fort Nelson, on the Portsmouth side, is very far advanced, and a powder magazine has been erected. The principal work remaining to be done is the opening of seven embrasures, completing one ditch of three hundred and sixty feet long, cutting another eleven hundred feet long, completing the glacis, and removing the earth from within side of the fort, where it is two feet and an half too high. The expense of doing this, and completing the fortification, may be estimated at five thousand dollars.\nOcracoke, in North Carolina.\u2014The defence proposed was, to erect a fort on Beacon Island. The foundation was laid in 1794. The situation is so far removed (about ninety miles) from any inhabitants, and so exposes any works to injuries from storms, that nothing but an impending or actual war would seem to authorize the construction of a fort there, and furnishing it with a proper garrison.\nWilmington, in North Carolina.\u2014The battery, on the whole front of the fort, has been completed, and a barrack and powder magazine have been erected.\nGeorgetown, South Carolina.\u2014A battery was begun, and materials collected, when the work was suspended, the owner of the land previously desiring to ascertain the terms on which it was to be occupied, for the fortification and for the road of communication with it. The unhealthiness of the situation and other circumstances authorize an abandonment of the work until war, actual or impending, shall require it to be resumed.\nCharleston, South Carolina.\u2014The work planned for Sullivan\u2019s Island, of which the foundation only was laid, in 1794, being on a scale supposed too extensive for the funds destined to this service, was directed to be left as it was. For the same reason, a new work, proposed by the engineer, on a point on the opposite side of the harbor from Fort Johnston, was not attempted. A battery has been erected in the town, by the mechanics.\nThere remained only Fort Johnston, on which directions were given to make such repairs as would preserve the works already constructed, and render them serviceable. The engineer omitted the work.\nThe officer in command at the fort has undertaken to make the necessary repairs of the works and barracks, and his intelligence and experience leave no room to doubt but these will be done.\nSavannah, in Georgia.\u2014The work consists of a battery, at present destined only for six guns, made of timber filled with earth, and enclosed behind with pickets, with a guard house for the garrison, which were in train to be completed early the last autumn.\nSt. Mary\u2019s, in Georgia.\u2014The work consists of a battery made of timbers filled with earth, and enclosed with pickets. By the personal report of the superintendent it must have been completed.\nGeneral Remark.\u2014The few ports of the highest importance to the commerce of the United States, in situations to demand, for their security, fortifications of such kind and extent as cannot suddenly be erected, prudence may require to have fortified, in time of peace, and with durable materials.\nTIMOTHY PICKERING.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1719", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Thomas Lee Shippen, 18 January 1796\nFrom: Shippen, Thomas Lee\nTo: Adams, John\nPrune St. No. 10. Jany 18. 1796\u2014\nMr: Thomas Lee Shippen presents his most respectful compliments to the Vice President, and is very sorry that he cannot immediately comply with the request contained in his note of yesterday. As soon as Mr: S. can either go into the Country where all his books are at present, or send a servant there who can be trusted in his library, the Vice President may be assured Mr: S. will not Fail to return a book which was so kindly lent and which has been so long by shameful neglect in his possession.\nMr. S. would have answered the Vice President\u2019s note yesterday but his health was so bad as to keep him almost all day in his bed. He is rather better this morning, and cannot help indulging a hope that he shall have the pleasure very soon of seeing the Vice President at his rooms, as the same causes continue to prevent his going out to see any body which have so long unmerciifully confined him.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1720", "content": "Title: To John Adams from William Stephens Smith, 21 January 1796\nFrom: Smith, William Stephens\nTo: Adams, John\nDear Sir.\nNew York Jany. 21st. 1796.\nI take the liberty of introducing to your acquaintance the Bearer of this, Mr. Wm: Langworthy, Author of a much approved work entitled \"an Attempt to promote the Commercial interest of Great Britain,\u201d a Copy of which, I believe he presented you with he is a Gent. of Science and abilities, who has been invited to this Country, as a proper theatre for the exercise of his talents and who lately arrived in this City with his family\u2014disgusted with the scenes in the old world, he seeks tranquility in the new, and proposes to make our Country the place of his future residence\u2014He was the intimate friend and Companion of Mr. Cranch in England & I believe is some how related to the family\u2014he is ambitious of paying his respects to the President, to whom he wishes to present his Book. Both yourself & The President will find him a Gent. of extensive information, & whose talents may probably be used to great national advantage, will you do me the favour of permitting him to accompany you to the Levee, and presenting him to The President, or if he should be admitted to a private interview, I think The President will not consider the time misspent\u2014The Children are all getting well over the measles & Mrs: Smith enjoys her usual good health, & Joins me in sincere wishes for your health & Happiness. I am Dr. Sir / Your most Obdt. Servt.\nW: S: Smith", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1721", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Thomas Welsh, 25 January 1796\nFrom: Welsh, Thomas\nTo: Adams, John\nDear Sir\nBoston Jany 25. 1796\nI do not take the Chronicle, but as it contains the Answer of the two Houses to the Governors speech I thought I would enclose it to you. Mr. Sprague was the Chairman of the Committee and would have red it but  leave of Absence it devolved on Dr Jarvis to read it. The Governor made a very submissive, short and extemporaneous reply \"that he did mean to be understood to intend to dictate to the House upon the subject of the Treaty and that he only spoke in his private Capacity.\" upon the whole the Governor appears to have lost his Reason, his Health and almost his public Influence. I am Sr. with respect your Humble St.\nThomas Welsh", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1723", "content": "Title: From John Adams to John Jay, 31 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Jay, John\nDear Sir\nPhiladelphia January 31. 1796\nDr D\u2019Ivernois continues to send Us his Speculations, which I value the more for giving me an opportunity to congratulate you, on the Durability and impenetrability of the Anvil, while so many hammers are wearing themselves out by their strokes upon it. The Treaty is not arrived and Congress will do nothing with spirit till they have vented themselves upon that. But all their Hammers will be as brittle as the multitude which we have already seen fly to pieces.\nI envy you the society of your Family and nothing else? If I did not consider the whole universe as one Family, I Should envy you still more. I am, dear Sir / very sincerely and faithfully / yours\nJohn Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1724", "content": "Title: From John Adams to Thomas Jefferson, 31 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhiladelphia January 31. 1796\nI have received from our old Acquaintance D\u2019Ivernois the inclosed volume for you in the course of the last Week.\nI consider all Reasoning upon French affairs of little moment. The Fates must determine hereafter as they have done heretofore. Reasoning has been all lost\u2014Passion, Prejudice, Interest, Necessity has governed and will govern; and a Century must roll away before any permanent and quiet system will be established. An Amelioration of human affairs I hope and believe will be the Result, but you and I must look down from the Battlements of Heaven if We ever have the Pleasure of seeing it.\nThe Treaty is not arrived and Congress seems averse to engage in Business with spirit till that is considered.\nI envy you the society of your Family but another year and one Month may make me the object of Envy. Mean time / I am, with Esteem & Affection / your\nJohn Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1725", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 1 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, John\nMy Dear Sir\nLondon February 1. 1796.\nMr: Pinckney has returned, and of course my business here ceases. I am yet waiting however for orders enabling me to return to the Hague. I expect them with a little impatience, having many reasons to wish myself away from hence.\nThe newspapers sent herewith contain intelligence of two important Events. The armistice concluded between the french and Austrian armies on the Rhine; and the return into Port of the famous West India expedition. It remains as yet uncertain whether the former is a presage of speedy pacification, or a mere agreement to take a breathing spell during the extremity of the Season. As a neutral Nation deeply interested in the fate of the West Indies, we I think may consider the failure of the formidable apparatus of this Country, as a favourable Event. While Britain weakens by War, and America strengthens by Peace, every true American must feel a double satisfaction.\nI am with the most grateful affection, your Son.\nJ. Q. Adams.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1726", "content": "Title: From John Adams to Thomas Welsh, 2 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Welsh, Thomas\nMy Dear Sir\nPhiladelphia Feb. 2. 1796\nI thank you for your favour of the 25th Ult. and its Contents.\nA Governor of a State in a Solemn Speech to both Houses, at the opening of a session, expressing a private Opinion only of a Treaty and that in the most rude insulting and unmeasured Language is such a Complication of Imbecility Hypocricy and Superannuation, As I never heard of.\nI pray that my Country may take from me all temptation to remain in Office after the App before the Approach of Dotage shall take from me the Capacity of doing any thing but Mischief to the Public and dishonour to my Character.\nWhatever Tenderness of Friendship I may feel for a Gadsden a Rutledge a Dickinson, a Warren or an Adams, with all of whom I have acted on the Public Stage in earlier Life, I am Stunned and astonished at their Vanity Presumption and Ignorance\u2014I cannot but ascribe it to the Imbecility of and decrepitude of Age.\nIn their Solitudes, unable to read, to converse or to think, destitute of all the Information which Government possesses do they think to dictate and to domineer, like Pedagogues over School boys!\nI wish you would write me oftener and more in detail.\u2014\nI am very happy to find that my Friend Dr Eustis has acquitted himself like a good Citizen and a wise and Upright Man upon this occasion. His first Thoughts and feelings on the Treaty I can easily account for, without the Smallest Imputation on his Motives Conduct or Character. His Ultimate Determination to leave the Thing where the Constitution has placed it does honour to his Head and Heart.\nI wrote you about your and Mr Codmens Clover Seed and wait your Answer. My Regards where due\nJohn Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1727", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Jay, 2 February 1796\nFrom: Jay, John\nTo: Adams, John\nDear Sir\nN York 2 Feb. 1796\nI was this morning favored with your obliging Letter of the 31 ult.\u2014D\u2019Ivernois is very industrious.\u2014I hear no more of his plan of transplanting the University of Geneva into the united States. He is a sensible diligent man, and I suspect that his Correspondence with Mr Gallatin has done no Harm\u2014\nIt gives me pleasure to find that in your opinion no great mischief will be done by the combustable Materials in Congress\u2014If like Doctr. Youngs Squib, they only \"burn hiss and bounce, waste paper, stink and die\" all will be well. The Tide has changed, and begins to run strong\u2014I hope it will be observed and used, or as they say in Massachusetts, improved.\u2014\nTo be with my Family is a Comfort, and yet I have too much to do with public affairs to be comfortable\u2014You can retire from the Senate to your Country Seat, and pass six months of Otium cum Dignitate\u2014We have both had busy lives, and I apprehend that in the Fluctuation of human affairs, I am not to expect to enjoy the Tranquility and Repose which all wish for, but which few find until they pass to that Country where the weary rest from their Labors\u2014and where parties and Politics have no admittance. I suspect that young nations like young people are apt to burn their Fingers; and that we have yet much wisdom to learn, and to pay for\u2014I think I see in this Country the Seeds of Trouble; and that our political machines will in more Senses than one get out of order.\u2014But be these things as they may, I believe it to be wise to do all the Good we can, and to enjoy all the Good we meet with\u2014\nThat you may always meet with a liberal Share of it, is the wish of / Dear Sir / your affte. Friend & Servnt\nJohn Jay", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1728", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 2 February 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Adams, John\nSir\nWar-Office Feby. 2d. 1796\nThe Senate were pleased, on the 22d. of December, to direct a statement to be laid before them of the military force actually employed against the insurgents in the four Western Counties of Pennsylvania, and an account of the expenditures in that expedition.\nI have now the honour to inform the Senate, that the expenditures were of various kinds, none of which, except merely for the pay of the militia, fall under the cognizance of the Secretary for the department of war: and that the dispersion of the militia to their homes before their pay could be delivered to them, has prevented complete settlements to this day; although it is near a year since an agent in each of the four states whence the militia was drawn, has been employed in paying & settling with them. Under these circumstances it is impossible to make the statements required. The supplies in the quartermaster\u2019s department and of provisions were furnished immediately by the department of the treasury. Arrearages in all the parts of this service remain to be settled and paid.\nI have the honour to be / with the highest respect / Sir your most obt. Servant\nTimothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1729", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Samuel Meredith, 5 February 1796\nFrom: Meredith, Samuel\nTo: Adams, John\nSir\nTreasury of the United States February 5th: 1796\nMy Account of Receipts and Expenditures in the War Department for the quarter ending the 31st. of Decemr. last, having passed the Offices, permit me through you to lay it before the Honorable the Senate.\u2014\nMy Treasury account of the same date is now ready for Settlement. When compleated, I shall take the earliest Opportunity of laying it also before you.\nI am sir / Your very humble Servant\nSaml Meredith Treas of the United States", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1730", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Jabez Bingham, 6 February 1796\nFrom: Bingham, Jabez\nTo: Adams, John\nSir\nRiding Feb\u2019y 6th. 1796\nhave you heard any thing from your Son John\u2014and shall I be the barrer of Agreeable, or disagreeable News\u2014if I tell you he is alive, and in good Helth, (my Story must be my Appollogy for writing this letter), some time in April 1793, I was  at the Natchees, on the Missicippia\u2014and one Afternoon, while I lay in the Harber, your Son came on board, and soon let me know he was from New England, and that his Name was Adams\u2014this led me to Inquire more perticular, and he told me his Father was the Vice President of the United States. he also told me of many things, that hapned to him in Early life and mentioned so many characters in and about Boston that I know, to be fact that he convinced me he had been there and I had no doubt but he had told me the Truth\u2014his appearence was very genteel and an open frankness appeared in his conversation, much superier to any I had seen in that Country\u2014when he related to me his faults and the consiquences that Insued, the big Tear freequentley burst from the sweling Eye, and I was obliged to acompany him\u2014I did not inquire into the perticular causes of his Emigration, nor did he tell me, but ondly hinted that it was an affair of Love\u2014in the evening I invited him up to a Tavern, to take a glass of wine. he seem\u2019d at first to be at a stand and paused some time, I guised at his difficulty, and offered him my Prasse, he hissitated no longer, but accompanied me In, \u201cwe had scarse drank one glass\u201d when Capt. Cabe a Spanish officer came in, and in a very Imperious Maner bid him be gone & out of the room, your Son tryed to reason with him, but in vain, the Landlord also joind with the Captain, and he was turnd out of Doors\u2014this gave me much uneasiness and I inquired the reason of their treatment of Mr: Adams. they said he was a Vagobond; and had no right to Gentlemen company, for he never had any Money, nor never paid any thing, I told them I had Invited him in, and knew the Character of his Family which, I told them, and by my Intercession he was Invited in, but the affair had put and end to the conviveolty of the evening, I desired him to caul in the Morning on Board but he did not come towards Noon I saw him and ask\u2019d his liberty to go and see you his Father, when I arrived at Philedelphia But this he wholly dene\u2019d me and beged I would never mention his Name in New England\u2014after this the Landlord (one John Ardon) told me he was an Impostor and he did not beleave his Name was Adams\u201d thise two Circomstances made me suspect I had been Imposed upon, but yet I alwas felt for him for he had much won my Heart, and sundry times I have been on the point of writing to your Excellency, and what finally determined me to do it, was\u2014that the said John Ardon came to Bedston four weaks Ago, and I inquired after your son, he told me he was about thier yet and could not get away for he ow\u2019d above five Hundred pounds, and they never would let him come away till he paid all off\u2014and yesterday I hapned to light upon one Briant Whooper a young man from Boston, now at Herrisburg, and he told me that your Son was gone off and that you all thought him Dead\u2014Thise reasons have Indused me to give you this Information, contrary to your Sons wishes\u2014if I have given you any satisfaction, I am amply paid, and O! how should I rejoice to hear he is returnd to a Father that will receive him with open Arms; I beleave he would come if he could\u2014and can I say, or do, anything to save him from Distruction will it be of any sirvice for me to plead in his behalf No your own Great Good since can, best Wch you Thot to do\u2014I live near Bedston Old Fourt, am now on my way to New Hampsheire, but Shall return in two months and Intend a Voiyge down the River next season and should be happy in Executing your Commands, one line given to Coll Wm. Wallace who is a member of the House of Representatives will come safe to me\u2014\nPray Great Sir Pardon me if I have done wrong\u2014I am with affection / for your Charactor,  and for you Son / your unknown / Humble Sert\nJabez Bingham", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1731", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 10 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, John\nMy Dear Sir.\nLondon February 10. 1796\nMr: Hall arrived a few days ago, and delivered to me a few days ago your favours of Novr: 17. and Decr: 12. The first acknowledges the receipt of my N. 11. July 27. But I feel somewhat concerned lest my next number to that, written very soon after it may have miscarried, as it should regularly have reached you before the date of your last.\nMr. Randolph\u2019s pamphlet had arrived before Mr. Hall, but I had seen only some extracts from it which were and yet are dealt out in some of the daily papers here. I think he rolls the stone of Sisyphus with a more impetuous recoil than I ever witnessed before. I confess I should never have thought that even the deliverence of guilt could publish such a production, and imagine it would injure the reputation of the President, or defend that of the writer.\u2014In my last numbered Letter to you, I mentioned an opinion that the party in France would perhaps return to the courting system, and I am almost tempted to believe that they advised this publication by way of atonement. For it seems to me impossible that the production should have been given to the world but by the agency of a person inveterate even to rancour against Mr: Randolph, and disposed to raise the character of the President, higher if possible than its former elevation.\nBut the publication to the world of confidential opinions and sentiments entertained by the President with respect to the European parties and Governments, will produce in a degree the effect for which they were it was calculated. They will produce some mischief. The sensation here upon seeing a proclamation to all the world that the President has been inimical to England and the friend of the french cause, is very perceptible and very strong. It will not only corroborate and confirm that deep rooted malignity towards us which governs the cabinet but it alienates and irritates the part of the Nation who are well disposed towards us.\nThey have however so much at present upon their hands that they will not quarrel with us. But no small use will be made of this pamphlet, by the Ministers of this Country. I have reason to suppose that it has given them great satisfaction: for their purposes concur so thoroughly with those of Mr: Randolph that they seize with delight every thing that contributes to promote them. It is one of those singularities which seem reserved exclusively for the complication of political intrigues, that the views of our french party and those of the Hawkesbury enclave here are exactly the same, and accordingly they are continually playing into each other\u2019s hands. They wish to perpetuate the variances between the United States and Britain, and ardently catch at every thing that has a tendency to that end.\nUpon this subject I think it necessary to give you my opinion explicitly. The cabinet here have of late affected a great regard for the Government of the United States. In this particular too they have coincided with our most virulent anarchists, and have taken all possible pains to countenance and give credit to their assertions that the American administration were upon terms of great harmony with that of Britain. The truth is that the American Government and those who are at the head of its administration have not upon Earth more rancorous enemies than the springs which move the Executive machine of this Country. They know perfectly well that the strength as well as the prosperity of the United States depend upon the efficiency of the Government, and above all things they dread the proof which any continued course of tranquility would afford that it is a good practical Government. In short every one of their feelings individual and national is hostile to us, and the policy of Vergennes & Montmorin to prevent our acquiring a consistency, which would make us really formidable is here envenomed by the recollection of former defeat and disappointment.\nBetween the United States and Great-Britain no cordiality can exist. I do not think it is on our part to be desired. But Peace may, and I hope will continue, notwithstanding all the conspiracies that have been formed against it in America and in Europe.\nBefore this time I presume you will have received my letters since I left the Hague which will shew that I did not flinch on the subject of my orders to come here and . The result of my coming has hitherto been even more unpleasant personally speaking than I had anticipated; but I have made no sacrifice of my duty or of my Country\u2019s Interests: my conduct here has been fully detailed in my dispatches. If it shall meet the approbation of the Government all my wishes will be satisfied: but most assuredly it will not suit the views of any partizans either of France or Britain. I never can and never will deviate from my own sense of duty to please either\nBut since the return of Mr: Pinckney I have had nothing to do here, though my orders do not permit me to return to Holland, without waiting for further instructions. I have hitherto been tolerably patient; but can hardly answer how much longer I shall be so.\nI enclose the newspapers and remain in all duty & affection your Son\nJohn Q. Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1732", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Thomas Welsh, 15 February 1796\nFrom: Welsh, Thomas\nTo: Adams, John\nMy Dear Sir,\nBoston Feby 15th. 1796.\nYour Favors of Jany 23 and the second Instant I have received.\nI have requested, Mr Joseph Cooledge to take charge of this Letter who with his Friend Mr Saml: Parkman will be in Philadelphia who are probably both known to you being both Gentlemen of extensive Business here and with whom I have the Pleasure of an Acquaintance of long standing.\nIn your Letter of 23d Ulto you appeared uncertain whether it was 50lb of Grass Seed I intended for Dr Dexter and myself or 50lb for each; I meant only 50lb for both which if you be pleased to order at a proper time I shall thank you.\nYou will have heard before this reaches you that Dr Jarvis after having caused a Motion to be made to be made in the House of Representatives to take up the Virginia Resolves which he supported with all his Faculties, was seized at his own House after Dinner with an apoplectic Fit. I have not seen him but I am told that  he appeared for several Days after much deranged in his Mind but he has recovered so far as to begin to talk politics again and says that the Question which was determined by a large Majority against Mr Fisk would not have gone as it did had he been in the House however he will not be able to attend again this Session.\nI am glad Dr: Eustis voted as he did but he has still a strange kink in his Head about the Contradiction between the two Articles in the Constitution. The one committing to Congress Power to regulate Trade and that to The President and Senate to make Treaties and altho he would not make the Motion I believe if it was made he would encourage an Article Alteration in the Constitution in this particular making it necessary to lay all Treaties before the House of Representatives of the United States for Ratification. I have endeavoured to convince him of his Error but I think without Effect.\nYou will see by our Papers that Mr Sumner is proposed as a Candidate for Governor he is a Man well respected in the Commonwealth how this will suit the various Expectants I know not.\nI am Sir with great Respect your Humble St.\nThomas Welsh", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1735", "content": "Title: From John Adams to Thomas Welsh, 27 February 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Welsh, Thomas\nDr Sir\nPhiladelphia Feb. 27. 1796\nI have just recd your favour of the 15, by Mr Coolidge and Mr Parkman.\nThere has been no Vessell up far as Boston a long time. When there is I will endeavour to Send your fifty Pounds of Clover Seed, with my own, if I can get any. It is said it will be very dear.\nIt is to be lamented that a Man of Such popular Talent and such an ardent Spirit as Dr Jarvis, should be always disposed to Seize every Opening and Opportunity to Attack, embarrass and enfeeble the national Government: but the People are so well fixed in opposite Principles that he will meet with nothing but Disappointment and Vexation till he probably falls a sacrifice to his imprudent Zeal and intemperate Exertions. His Constitution is not made for Such a Career.\nThe People will never concur with Dr Eustis in his Project of Submitting Treaties to an House of Representatives. They would sooner take away from the Senate the Power of Advising & consenting. Nothing but the precarious footing of an Elective Executive, indeed the Admission of the Senate into this Business, which all the World knows ought to be confined to a very cool Cabinet. The Senate are an outwork in our Constitution to defend the Executive from popular Clamours, which are always apt to be excited by Treaties. But the House of Representatives would not only be overawed by such Clamours but contribute to excite & foment them.\nThere is an Instability in human Understanding that is enough to alarm every Man who wishes for a Government upon which the People can depend for the Protection of their Rights. There are so few who will ever take the trouble to get an Insight into the Subject, and So few of these who can remember their own Principles & Opinions for Six Months together, that it seems as if one must despair of ever seeing Wisdom prevail. The People of America however have hitherto given good hopes: but it will cost so much trouble to overcome Sudden heats and popular Errors which will be constantly excited and propagated, that the best Men will be discouraged and give Way to Hyppocrites Bothers and Villains.\nThe Man who expects by destroying this Constitution to get one more popular is a fool. So sure as this is undermined it will be succeeded by a stronger. There is nothing about which Men of Sense Sometimes make wilder Judgments, than they do about the Sense of the People. Adams and Jarvis believed the British Treaty to be unpopular\u2014Both most grossly deceived.\nI Suppose the Expectants would rather wish to continue the old Cardinal, than to have a young Pope to exclude their hopes for many Years: It is deeply to be lamented however that a Governor of Massachusetts and especially Sam Adams should shew himself so bad a Citizen of U.S. New York is an Example which shews the Importance of having good Governors. I write you freely in Confidence and haste and am &c\nJohn Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1737", "content": "Title: From Richard Claiborne to John Adams, 29 February 1796\nFrom: Claiborne, Richard\nTo: Adams, John,United States Senate\n\t\t\t\tTo the President and Members of the Senate of the United States\n\t\t\t\tThe Memorial of Richard Claiborne Respectfully ShewethThat Your memorialist conceiving that very great benefit will result to the United States by encouraging the introduction of the useful arts from abroad\u2014and perceiving, that, according to the present patent Law, inventions or discoveries, are confined to Citizens of the United States only\u2014Your memorialist respectfully prays that Congress will pass a Law, granting to Original prourors of Inventions, being Americans, such encouragement, protection, or privilege, as to them shall seem wise and reasonable\u2014And Your memorialist as in duty bound will ever pray\n\t\t\t\t\tRd. Claiborne", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1738", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Henry Marchant, 1 March 1796\nFrom: Marchant, Henry\nTo: Adams, John\nVery dear Sir\nNewport March 1st. 1796\nI have been indebted to you, ever since, nearly the Close of the last Session of Congress. When you are near Boston, I cannot with equal Convenience get a Letter to you.\u2014Surprising have been the Incidents which have turned up since then. The Disorganizers, like Crows and Vultures have had plenty of Food, to fill their insatiable Stomachs with;\u2014and they have disgorged their abominable Maws in every Quarter of the United States.\u2014The horrid stench threatened to suffocate the whole Body.\u2014Our Constitution, Government, Peace and Happiness seemed for a Time to shake and totter amidst the Storm of Insurgency. But Thanks to the Wisdom and Firmness of Our Leaders,\u2014The good Sense of the people upon Reflection, and above all, the Interposition of that kind Providence which has so often marvelously appeared for the Salvation of Our Country;\u2014Confusion and Disgrace\u2014have again covered the Enemies of Peace and Order, and sunk them below Contempt.\u2014The People seem to be aware of the Misery they have escaped; and I hope will learn the Neccessity of more Confidence in those of their own Choice, and appreciate their Virtues by a Contrast of the diabolical Spirit of those who had well nigh involved Our Country in Ruin.\u2014\nI flatter myself Sir, that the present Sessions will disappoint all Parties,\u2014and do less Evil than was feared by some, and more good than was hoped for by others.\u2014\nBut for the seeming Neccessity which the Resolutions of Virginia threw the other States into, Our State would not have seen a Propriety of expressing Their Sense of the Conduct of Government:\u2014As it was, We too, have given Our Opinion:\u2014And as I always told you, when we had once adopted the Constitution, We should prove ourselves as federal, or more so, than any State in the Union.\u2014We had a little Flash in this Town,\u2014It was too despicable to be noticed even by ourselves, it vanished like smoke.\nI do feel unhappy however at the amazing Speculations which seem to overrun the Country. This with the multiplicity of Banks have introduced Extravagancies and a fall of Money ruinous to the steady industrious Man, distressful to Widows and Orphans; and upon all Officers of Government.\u2014This last Circumstance, will tend more than any Thing, to drive good Men out, and introduce those who, void of Principle, will find other means of Supporting themselves than their slender Salaries. While the Merchant and the Farmer, the Mechanic and even the common Labourer can hold up Sides with each other, they have not the Will or the Justice to raise the Emolluments of the Servants of the Publick to any kind of Comparison with their own.\u2014Has it not been found difficult to fill up the Supreme Court? and will it not grow more so, while such Speculations are abroad, and Money runs down so rapidly?\u2014\nWhat my dear Sir are your Ideas of the State of Europe; and the Prospects of Peace?\u2014\nI wish to know how your State of Health has been of late, as sometime past you mentioned some discouraging Circumstances. I have not of late enjoyed my own as formerly, but in all Circumstances I am / Your ever obliged / and sincere Friend\nHenry MarchantP:S: Pray present my dutiful respects to the President.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1739", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Fran\u00e7ois D\u2019Ivernois, 6 March 1796\nFrom: D\u2019Ivernois, Fran\u00e7ois\nTo: Adams, John\n\t\t\t\t\tMonsieur\n\t\t\t\t\tLondres ce 6 Mars 1796.\n\t\t\t\tJ\u2019apprens dans ce moment que Mr Vausse de souche, Colon de st Domingue part \u00e0 l\u2019instant pour Gravesende en me faisant offrir de se charger de ce que j\u2019aurais \u00e0 lui remettre pour l\u2019am\u00e8rique. J\u2019ai bien du regret de n\u2019avoir point le tems de r\u00e9pondre \u00e0 votre lettre si int\u00e9ressante du 11 D\u00e9cembre, mais en attendant que j\u2019aye cet avantage, je profite au moins de cette occasion pour vous remercier de toutes les choses obligeantes que vous voulez bien me dire & pour vous faire passez un volume qui contient l\u2019examen de la nouvelle Constitution Fran\u00e7aise & la suite de l\u2019histoire des delapidations D\u00e9mocratiques. Je joins quelques exemplaires de cette brochure in 4e que je vous prierai de distribuer \u00e0 ceux de vos amis qui pourraient en entre curieux. J\u2019aurai l\u2019honneur de vous \u00e9crire incessamment en vous envoyant la traduction Anglaise de cet \u00e9crit sur les finances, traduction dans la quelle j\u2019en ai continu\u00e9 l\u2019histoire jusqu\u2019au 1er MarsJe suis avec respect / Monsieur / Votre tres humble / & tres ob\u00e9issant serviteur\n\t\t\t\t\tF d\u2019Ivernois\n\t\t\t\t\tPs. Je re\u00e7ois en ce moment la brochure Anglaise dont je viens de vous faire mention & j\u2019en joins ici 5  exemplaires.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1740", "content": "Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Sr., 9 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Sr.\nSir,\nUnited States, In Senate March the 9th. 1796\u2014\nThe Senate of the United States have requested me to notify your Honor, that the Seat of the Honorable Oliver Ellsworth in the Senate, is vacated by his acceptance of the Office of Chief Justice of the United States; as is stated in the Journals of Senate; an authenticated copy whereof, I have directed to be made out, and herewith transmit for your information, and for that of the Legislature of the State of Connecticut.\nWith great and sincere esteem, / I have the honor to be, / Sir, Your Honor\u2019s / most obedient and most hble. Servt.\n John Adams\n              Vice President of the United States \n              and President of the Senate", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1741", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 14 March 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nTo: Adams, John\nSir\nTreasury Department\nMarch 14th. 1796\nIn obedience to the resolution of the Senate of the 23d of December 1795; I have the honour to transmit herewith a Return of the Exports of the United States for the Year ending September 30th. 1795.\u2014\nI have the honour to be / With perfect respect / Sir / Your Obedient Servant\nOliv. Wolcott Jr.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1742", "content": "Title: From Catherine Greene to John Adams, 14 March 1796\nFrom: Greene, Catherine\nTo: Adams, John,United States Senate\n\t\t\t\t\tTo the Honorable the President and the Honorable the Members of the Senate of the United States.\n\t\t\t\tThe Memorial of Catherine Green, widow of Major General Green respectfully sheweth That in the month of March 1795 Messrs: Harris and Blackford, Merchants of Great Britain, obtained a final decree of the Court of Equity in Charleston against the heirs of General Green for a sum amounting to more than seven thousand pounds sterling, as surety for the House of Hunter, Banks & Co: the same being a part, and the residue of demands the nature of which has been submitted to the consideration of Your honorable House in a former session at which time the suit with Messrs Harris & Blackford was pending.With sensible pain Your Memorialist feels herself compelled to call once more on the Legislature of the United States. The duty she owes to her Children and to the memory of General Green will, with enlightened men, plead her apology.The distresses of the Southern Army, particularly for the last two years of the war, are so well known to many of the Members of both houses as scarcely to need detailing.General Green awake to the interests of the States and to the sufferings of brave men who were fighting under his command, felt himself reduced to the painful situation of either disbanding the Army with the command of which he was entrusted, or risking his private fortune to prevent the only man who would undertake to furnish the Army with rations, from sinking. Relying on the justice of his Country he hesitated not in the choice of difficulties. He made himself responsible for large sums in order to secure the necessary supplies for the Army. Scarce had he rested from the toils of war and returned to the enjoyment of domestic life when he was called on, as will appear by the documents accompanying this memorial, for the payment of considerable sums of money, for which he made himself responsible from no motive but Public Good. Encountering these painful demands and suits but a short time he was called hence: having by his zeal for the interests of his Country involved his Widow and Children in a series of difficulties and distress against which they are no longer able to bear up. The decision of the Court of Equity in Charleston subjects the little property kept together by rigid \u0153conomy and private friendships, to be torn from the Children of a Man who can be charged with no imprudence, but an excessive ardour in promoting the interests of his Country. Incompetent to the Fullfilment of the decree of the Court. Unable to contend with the difficulties it involves the family of General Green in, where can; where ought they to look for support but to that Country for whose service these difficulties are incurred.Ample testimonies can be adduced to satisfy Your honorable House that the debt, which General Green made himself liable for, was not for private purposes, but for public good. Under this firm persuasion the Widow and Children repose Themselves on the justice of Congress to exempt them from the demand of Messrs Harris &c. by making provision for payment of the same.And they will as in duty bound ever pray.\n\t\t\t\t\tCatherine Greene", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1743", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Thomas Peacock, 15 March 1796\nFrom: Peacock, Thomas\nTo: Adams, John\nSir/\nNew York March 15. 1796\nMy arrival from England in this City is of a recent date, and agreeable to desire, I embrace the earliest opportunity of presenting the most respectful Compliments of my Brother-in-Law; Mr. Thicknesse, Son of the late Governor Thicknesse of St. Catharines Hermitage Bath, whom with his family I expect by May next\u2014His intention is to purchase an eligible estate and spend the remainder of his days in this land of Freedom and Liberty;\u2014Fortune has not been so profuse in her favors to me, so that I think myself happy in fillng an humble station in the Custom House under the worthy veteran Genl. Lamb far as my Station will allow I am, and it my sincere desire to, become more serviceable to Community and as I am now young I would that my usefulness and rising years may be reciprocal &c. I am unknown to the General and my present Salarty is very low, permit me therefore, to solicit your Kind patronage, which will, be ever gratefully acknowledged, and every effort made to merit the same by Sir, / Your most obedt Servant\nThomas Peacock\nP.S. If you honor me with an answer, You will please to direct for me at the Custom House\u2014New York", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1744", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 20 March 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, John\nMy Dear Sir.\nLondon March 20th. 1796.\nIn the situation which has already detained me here between four and five months, and from which I am waiting with anxiety not unmingled with impatience to be relieved, I have very few opportunities to obtain any intelligence of importance other than what is contained in the daily newspapers, one complete sett of which I have regularly forwarded to you by every opportunity that has been known to me since I have been in England. There has indeed for the last three months been very little to tell. The Severity of the Season naturally produced an interval of repose from the military operations, and although much has been said by both the parties at War, about pacific negotiations, it is extremely doubtful whether either of them has been seriously inclined to give them effect.\nThe People indeed every where ardently sigh for Peace. Every where they perceive that they have been made the victims of their own Passions and follies; they are every where becoming more and more convinced that the struggle which they are still obliged to maintain although its original object has completely failed on both sides, can only be destructive to them and they would gladly bury in oblivion the abstracted madness which created such a fanatical agitation of their brains about three years ago. But in all the Governments of Europe new and old, the People are considered as an instrument not as the object of political calculations. Their interests their feelings and their wishes are not the ultimate point of contemplation but only a power over which the controul of the superintendent is more or less efficacious according to the progress of Events. The ruling powers therefore here and in France, finding the spirits of their combatants much exhausted, encourage them with hopes of Peace, and at the same time are taking infinite pains to continue the War, and to shift each upon the other the odium of that continuance.\nAt the opening of the present session of Parliament, the royal speech prepared the way for a sort of acknowledgment of the new French Government, without which no pretence of negotiation could have been raised and supported. Soon after a message from the king, formally declared that he would meet any disposition to negotiate on the part of France. Upon a debate which recently took place Mr: Pitt declared that measures were taking which might lead to a negotiation, and even at this day reports of actually pending arrangements are industriously circulated and kept up by the ministerial influence. On the other hand a Message from the Executive Directory of France to the Legislative body some time since expressly said that the Enemies, or rather that Enemies of France had spoken of Peace, and the same message professed a very cordial desire to terminate the War.\nAll this on both sides appears to be mere profession without sincerity. If the parties were really inclined to Peace their pretensions as to the conditions of it, are too widely distant for them to meet without a further struggle. But the Governments both of France and Britain dread the consequences of Peace to themselves The armies of France are such formidable and unwieldy machines that the persons in power are very unwilling to take them from that employment which removes their attention from home, while in this Country the Monarchy and Aristocracy view with horror the prospect of a Republican establishment so near to themselves.\nThe last pamphlet of Burke, which I lately sent you discovers this temper in its natural colours, and another, professedly written upon the subject and entitled thoughts upon the prospect of a regicide Peace, is announced for publication within a short period. Their object is probably to make a further experiment at fanaticising the public mind, or at least to revive the flame which has long been drooping and of late has been ready to expire. It is contending yet for ground which the Ministers no longer dare openly to avow, but which their ostensible declarations rather disclaim.\nAt the same time the preparations for another campaign have been made by both parties with a degree of exertion and energy which has very little resemblance to the relaxation that would indicate a probability of Peace. The monies here have been raised, and the West Indian expedition is conducted with a perseverance equal to the numerous disasters which the armament has hitherto encountered. The french Directory on their side have applied all the force of two very vigorous measures, the requisition of men and the forced loan, to the strengthening of their armies on the Rhine, and from the present appearance they are determined to make a decisive effort in that quarter. The imperial and Austrian preparations there are likewise mentioned as very powerful, but the commander in chief Clerfayes has been removed from his station at the moment of victory, and as if the allies never could learn to appreciate at its value the worth of Royal Generals, an Imperial Archduke is to be substituted instead of a good officer.\u2014Another Archduke it is said to is to command the Austrian forces in Italy, and if any anticipation of consequences can be formed from the uniform experience of the War hitherto, the success of the campaign will be in inverse proportion to the rank of the opposed leaders.\nUpon the whole another campaign seems to be inevitable, and there is some reason to expect that it will be more vigorous and decisive than that of the last year. It is however impossible to say that the war will terminate with this. The question between France and Austria, seems indeed reduced to a simple point which is, the possession of the Netherlands, and it is rather probable that one more campaign will produce Events to settle that. But, as between France and Britain neither of which can be in danger by invasion from the other, there is no adequate motive for finishing their quarrel so long as either of them can command men for action, and money for supplies; nor is there any thing that can induce an expectation of failure in either of these.\nThe french paper has indeed met with the fate to which from the moment of its first creation it was destined. It is now gone much out of circulation, and passes but partially at a rate of nearly three hundred for one. But the use of specie is again returning and it appears from the experiment of the forced loan that the Government can yet command effective money. Their requisitions for men, whatever discontents they may excite are equally efficacious, and they have in particular disincumbered the capital of a numerous body of young men who had become very troublesome and even dangerous to the ruling party.\nIn this Country the pecuniary resources seem to thrive by consumption. There are great complaints of a want of money, but the stocks maintain their prices even at the critical moments of calls for payments of the new loan. The increase of the national debt is perhaps a real object of desire to the Government because it naturally strengthens them; and whatever sums they want the only difficulty they meet with is to decide by whom they shall be supplied. By the regulations which they have recently established, and by the distresses which the War itself occasions they are enabled also to recruit their navy and their army at home as much as they can desire, and however the general mass of the People might may be disposed to complain there is little reason to doubt of the continuance of their submission.\nThese circumstances are not indicative of a speedy pacification. But as the sentiments and wants of whole Nations must at all times have a certain influence upon the operations of their Governments the strong and unequivocal propensity to Peace which every where prevails may possibly accelerate that Event notwithstanding it will be adverse to the Policy and Interest of those who govern on both sides.\nI enclose by this opportunity a couple of pamphlets upon the present State of the finances of this Nation. They reminded me of Voltaire\u2019s tale of Jean qui pleure et Jean qui rit; but some interesting information may be collected from both.\nMy last Letters from you are of Decr: 12. and came by Mr: Hall. I feel an extreme anxiety to hear from you, as well as from the Department of State, since my arrival and conduct here have been made known there. Accounts from Philadelphia are in this town to the 15th: of February. The appearance of a more moderate and harmonious general disposition than had been apprehended are pleasing in the highest degree, and I fervently pray that no future fuel for the flame of faction so may be preparing by concert in America and Europe. But \u2014I shall write you soon again.\nYour ever affectionate and grateful Son\nJohn Q. Adams.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1745", "content": "Title: To John Adams from James McHenry, 22 March 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Adams, John\nSir.\nWar Department 22d. March 1796.\nI have the honour to transmit you herewith a statement of the claims four Invalid Pension Applicants, which were forwarded to this office by the Judge of the District Court for the District of Virginia.\nThe evidences to support these claims have been taken after the expiration of the \"Act to regulate the claims to Invalid Pensions.\"\nI submit them to Congress together with copies of two letters from the District Judge which accompanied them.\nI am with great respect / Sir / your obedient Servant\nJames McHenrySecy. of war", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1746", "content": "Title: To John Adams from George Washington, 23 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Adams, John\nDear Sir,\nWednesday Morning 23d. March\u20141796\nI thank you for giving me the perusal of the enclosed.\u2014The details are interesting.\u2014The Picture is well drawn;\u2014and it is to be feared, too well founded in facts.\u2014With very sincere esteem and regard / I am Your Obedt & / Affecte.\nGo: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1747", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Oliver Wolcott, Sr., 28 March 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver, Sr.\nTo: Adams, John\nSir.\nLitchfield March 28th. 1796\nI have been honoured with your exceellencys letter of the 8th. instant, together with an Order of the Senate, directing that information be given to the Executive of this Stat, that the Honourable Oliver Ellsworth has been Appointed to, and that he has accepted the Office of Chief Justice of the United States, and consequently that. his that Seat, as Senator has become Vacated\u2014\nThe information Sir, which you have communicated, will be laid before the Legislature of this State, at their Session in may next, when they will probably supply the Vacancy\u2014\nWith Sentiments of the most real esteem / and respect\u2014I have the honour to be, / Your Exceellency\u2019s / most obedient, humble Servant\nOliver Wolcott", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1748", "content": "Title: From Sc., Citizens of Georgetown to John Adams, 1 April 1796\nFrom: Georgetown, Sc., Citizens of\nTo: Adams, John,United States Senate\n\t\t\t\t\tTo the Honorable the President and Members of the Senate of the United States\n\t\t\t\t\tFebruary 29th 1796\nThe Petition of the Inhabitants of Georgetown South Carolina and its vicinityHumbly shewethThat your Petitioners suffer much inconvenience for the want of a Post between this place and Charleston; until the late alteration of the Route of the Post, your Petitioners always enjoyed the benefit of a speedy and regular communication with their Fellow Citizens of Charleston, but agreeably to the present mode of conveyance, their Letters, Newspapers &c: go a circuitous route of 260 Miles which subjects your Petitioners to great delay and disappointment in their business.Your Petitioners therefore request of your Honorable House to take the premises into consideration and grant them a Post to go once a Week between Georgetown and Charleston; and your Petitioners as in duty bound shall ever pray\u2014\n\t\t\t\t\tGeo HeriotP. TrapierJohn O. Heriot[32 Additional Signatures]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1750", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 4 April 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nTo: Adams, John\nSir\nTreasury Department April 4th: 1796\u2014\nI have the honour to transmit herewith a Letter from the Comptroller of the Treasury dated the Second instant, with the Abstract required by the fourth section of the Act entitled \u201cAn Act relative to the Compensations of certain Officers employed in the Collection of the duties of Import and Tonnage\u201d passed February 14th. 1795.\u2014\nI have the honour to be / With perfect respect / Sir, / Your Obedient Servant \nOliv. Wolcott Jr.Secy of the Treasy", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1751", "content": "Title: From John Adams to Thomas Jefferson, 6 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhiladelphia April 6. 1796\nSince my Receipt of your favour of the 28 of February I have call\u2019d on the Auditor and had some Conversation with him and with The Secretary of The Treasury and with The Secretary of State upon the Subject of Accounts and they think that some Regulation may be made by Congress which will reach the Cases without any formal Memorial on our Part and indeed without mentioning Names. The Secretary of The Treasury has it under Consideration: But if they finally determine that they cannot accomplish the object without our Interposition I will join you with all my Heart in an application to Congress.\nD\u2019Ivernois is industrious and clever, but he is in Pay Pension or Employment of some kind or other under Mr Pitt, and Some of his late Publications have tang of the Cask from whence he draws his Wine. It is good to read all those Party Pamphlets and believe in none of them.\nThis is indeed as you say the Age of Experiments in Government. One Tryal has  been fairly made in America and France, of Nedhams perfect Commonwealth, and at length given up. Holland is trying it again and if Britain should have a Revolution she will try it too. An hundred thousand Dutchmen guillotined or beknifed will convince Holland as soon as five hundred thousand Frenchmen and Women have convinced France. How many Hecatombs must be Slaughtered to convince John Bull I cannot calculate.\nThe Plural Executive in France is a new Attempt borrowed from a conceit of De Mably in his phosthumous Dialogue with Lord Stanhope. The Danger of Corruption and Intrigue in Elections is rather multiplied five fold, than diminished by this. and Jealousy, Emulation and Division among them are inevitable.\nCorruption in Elections has heretofore destroyed all Elective Governments. What Regulations or Precautions may be devised to prevent it in future, I am content with you to leave to Posterity to consider. You and I shall go to the Kingdom of the just or at least shall be released from the Republick of the Unjust, with Hearts pure and hands clean of all Corruption in Elections: so much I firmly believe. Those who shall introduce the foul Fiend on the Stage, after We are gone must exorcise him as they can.\nWith great Esteem and regard I am, Sir your most obedient\nJohn Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1753", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 14 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, John\nMy dear Sir\nLondon April 14. 1796\nYou will see by the official papers published in the \"Times\" of the 11th: instt: which I enclose to you by this opportunity that the Government of this Country have at length thought proper to communicate to the other Governments of Europe, and to publish to the world the result of their late steps towards a negotiation with France.\u2014The notes of Mr: Wickham and of Mr: Barthelemi, may serve as a comment upon my letter to you of March 20. (N:18) The policy which I then stated as guiding the hostile parties (for it is the same policy on both sides) is in my mind proved to complete demonstration by these papers.\nThe news from France Paris that have been received here, reach down to the 7th: of this month. The Executive Directory had not then published, nor communicated to the legislative body this correspondence. Its first publication by the British Executive, in so formal a manner, evidently shews that they are of opinion it will have an operation upon the public mind in Europe, favourable to them.\nIt must indeed have been a step somewhat mortifying to them, after the style of pretension with which they commenced and have hitherto conducted the War, to make the first proposals for negotiation and to have them treated with such disdain. As to the public opinion, it will doubtless in this as in other cases assume its complexion, from the success of the War, but I think some advantage will be derived, especially from the present temper of the European People, by this simple offer to negotiate.\nAware of the power which the general disposition towards Peace, has acquired, and continues daily to acquire, the answer on the part of the Directory, openly imputes insincerity to the overtures of Britain, and professes not only an ardent desire for Peace, but even hints a disposition to accommodate liberally, not only the commercial and political interests that may come in question, and even the concerns of a territory which without any violence of construction may be considered as comprehending the Dutch Republic.\nBut at the same time they refuse the proposal to send ministers to a congress for a general pacification, and refuse to point out any other mode in which they will concur for that purpose.\u2014A general congress they say, would be an endless negotiation, and the proposal to suggest any other mode, is too vague to be serious. In giving these reasons the Directory certainly could not intend Peace themselves.\nI have no access to the secret councils either of France or Britain, nor do I know whether under the mask of all these public papers, a more serious but informal negotiation is still going on, or whether the documents published here, are connected with others that do not appear. Perhaps some public notice will be taken by the Directory of this publication, and an explanation of the transaction from them will perhaps give it a different colour: But bating the possibilities that are contained in those two sources, the certainty of another campaign is fixed. What the result of that will be it would be idle to conjecture. But if it should be similar to that of the last, that is a great waste of exertion and resource without any material advantage gained, on either side, the parties will perhaps be disposed to make something more than a barren demonstration of pacific intentions, at the close of the Season now opening.\nBut although the Minister of this Government will reconcile the Nation to another year of war; yet the symptoms of an ardent desire for Peace, which the present occasion produces, must have a considerable effect upon his policy. He is sensible doubtless that the tendency of this War must be to weaken the Nation, however it may strengthen the Government, and although his operations meet with no impediment from the regular opposition in Parliament, the external force arrayed against him becomes more formidable in proportion to the continuance of the war.\nApril 26.\nSince the above was written a supplementary loan of seven millions and an half has been contracted by the british Minister, and voted by Parliament. The prospect of a further extension of the War, is encreasing. The french Directory have as yet   taken no notice of the published correspondence between Barthelemi and Wickham. The campaign on the Rhine is not yet opened, but is announced as to be expected from day to day.\nThe most recent public news from the continent speak of a War between Russia, and Sweden on one side, and with the Turks on the other as inevitable. This intelligence is very questionable, as it is hitherto founded only upon public rumour; but if it be true, there can be no doubt but it is the consequence of the french system of policy, upon which I wrote you in my last Letters. That the views of this policy involve also the Peace of the United States, I firmly believe, and although the latest accounts from America have a shew of calmness beyond what could have been expected, I am yet not without anxiety for the result of intrigues which are conducted with so much perseverance and so little shame, as those of France and the french party in America.\nThe last letters that I have received from you, were brought by Mr. Hall, and are dated in December. I have been waiting with anxious expectation more than three months for other Letters from the Department of State. How much longer I shall remain without them I cannot conjecture; but in the interval I am kept useless here, without being authorized to return to my proper station.\nI remain your ever affectionate Son\nJohn Q. Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1754", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 17 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, John\nMy Dear Sir.\nLondon April 17. 1796.\nMr: Robert Bird, the bearer of this letter, is a respectable merchant of this place, a brother of the Gentleman with whom you had the pleasure of an acquaintance some years since, at New-York. He proposes making a tour in the United States, during the ensuing Season, and I am happy to have this opportunity of introducing him to your acquaintance, and recommending him to your attentions.\nI am, very affectionately, your Son\nJohn Q. Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1755", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 18 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, John\nMy dear Sir.\nLondon April 18. 1796.\nThe bearer of this letter, is Mr: Henry Rigal, who has been recommended to me as a gentleman of great respectability; he has heretofore held an office in the Service of the Elector of Bavaria, but from the present unsettled state of his Country, and a predilection in favour of America, he has determined to remove with his family and settle in some part of the United States, to whom I am well assured he will thus give the accession of a very valuable citizen.\nIt is possible that upon his arrival he may have occasion for advise or information, relative to the pursuit of his purpose, which it may be in your power to give or procure; I am happy therefore in introducing him to your acquaintance, and in requesting in his behalf the benefit of any such services.\nI am with the greatest respect & affection, my dear Sir, your faithful Son\nJohn Q. Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1757", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Thomas Welsh, 25 April 1796\nFrom: Welsh, Thomas\nTo: Adams, John\nDear Sir\nBoston April 25th. 1796.\nYour Favor of 7th Inst \u2019till this moment I have not had convenient Opertunity to answer but do it now with great satisfaction as it will inform you of a very important Triumph gained in a Town meeting called by Jarvis Austin and about 18 other Leaders to induce a Vote of Disapprobation of a Memorial signed by about 13,00 Merchants Tradesmen Mechanics and others Inhabitants of The Town of Boston. Dr Jarvis and Mr Morton with Austin exerted their respective Powers of Uterance to impress the Town against the Subject Matter of the Memorial but it was in vain for after a full hearing of all their Declaration the Vote obtained to adopt the Memorial in a Meeting perhaps the fullest that was ever held since the Peace with a few only in the negative.\nI hope these Measures with others now persuing by other Towns will have an effect in procuring the cooperation of The House of Representatives in the fulfilment of The Treaty.\nI am Sir with great Respect Your Humble. Sr\nThomas Welsh", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1758", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Charles Lee, 26 April 1796\nFrom: Lee, Charles\nTo: Adams, John\nSir,\nPhiladelphia, April 26, 1796.\nI have the honor to transmit to Congress a report in pursuance of their resolution of the 3d of March, 1795, respecting the title to the land situate in the south western parts of the United States, claimed by certain companies in that resolution described under a law of the state of Georgia, passed the 7th day of January in the year 1794. It is accompanied with all the charters, treaties, and other documents relative to the subject which it has been in my power to procure except the most modern treaties to which I have taken leave to refer. However imperfect it may be deemed, I have yet supposed it better to obey without delay the order of Congress, in the best manner in my power, than to suffer the session to pass without a communication of some kind. With the most perfect respect, I am Sir, / Your most obedient servant. \nCharles Lee,Attorney General of the United States.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1760", "content": "Title: To John Adams from William Smith, 2 May 1796\nFrom: Smith, William\nTo: Adams, John\nMonday 2 May 1796\nW Smith of N.H returns the enclosed letters with his respectful Compliments to the Vice-President\u2014Mr Ames & M S have derived pleasure & improvement from the perusal\nThey conceive that if the contents were generally known they would produce favorable impression in the public sentiments.\u2014", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1761", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Samuel Allyne Otis, 6 May 1796\nFrom: Otis, Samuel Allyne\nTo: Adams, John\nSir\nPhilada May 6t 1796\nAgreeable to promise I do myself the honor to inform you that the Senate have elected Mr Levermor Pres pro tem. 13 out of 19.\nIn regard to accommodating you the next winter I have not yet made my own arrangements. I have some expectation of removing from the house I now possess; Yet I know not to what house I shall remove. Add to this the difficulty of engaging & retaining good servants, makes it almost impracticable to arrange ones family to our wishes.\nWith our best remembrances to Mr Adams & friends /  I am /  Very respectfully /  Your most humble Sert\nSam A. Otis", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1763", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Caleb Strong, 10 May 1796\nFrom: Strong, Caleb\nTo: Adams, John\nDear Sir\nPhiladelphia May 10th. 1796\nI arrived at this place the Evening before you left it and found when I came into the Senate that our first Business was to choose a President pro Tempore\u2014we chose Mr. Livermore\u2014\nYesterday the Senate advised the President to ratify the explanatory Article which had been sent them while you was here, and this morning I have been preparing to return homeward by the Thursday Stage when behold Mr. Langdon has made his appearance with whom you may remember I paired off, he too complains that he was sent for and how long we should stay here is uncertain\u2014The doorkeeper has handed to me the inclosed Letter to be returned to you\u2014\nBe kind enough to present my Respects to Mrs. Adams & believe me to continue with sincere Respect & Attachment / your obed. & Hble. Servt.\nCaleb Strong", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1764", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 12 May 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, John\nMy dear Sir.\nLondon May 12. 1796.\nIn addition to the letters and Packets which I have already sent by the present conveyance, I now enclose the newspapers up to this day. This contains intelligence of very considerable importance, which proves that the king of Sardinia has been compelled to enter into negotiations for Peace with the French Republic, and to surrender two strong fortresses as a preliminary to obtain a suspension of hostilities. The accounts of an insurrection in Corsica appear also to be well founded.\nParliament is about to adjourn, and it is expected its dissolution will follow immediately. The Minister has yet lost none of his ground as you will see by the divisions on the most recent motions from the opposition in both houses. The general opinion is that the new Parliament will be equally subservient.\nI am yet waiting for the opportunity of a neutral conveyance to return to the Hague. I hope to get away in a few days.\u2014\nMy last Letters from you are dated in December, and, were brought by Mr: Hall.\nYour dutiful & affectionate Son,\nJohn Q. Adams.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1765", "content": "Title: To John Adams from LeRay de Chaumont, 19 May 1796\nFrom: Chaumont, LeRay de\nTo: Adams, John\n\t\t\t\tThe Bearer of this is my most intimate friend Mr Robineau de Bougon & the friend of my whole family. This worthy Gentleman has always enjoyed the esteem et respect of every one who knew him, he was one of the warmest friend the american Revolution had, et being nearly connected With the late Count de Vergennes he has been able to be usefull to that cause which he had always much at heart. Full of confidence in its success he joinded my father as early as 1777 to lend a sum somewhat considerable to the United States. However by some mis understanding the agent did Complicate this simple bussiness in such a manner that the true owners are not yet in possession of their dues, & now it is become an object of importance to Mr Bougon who by the chances of the french Revolution has experienced the loss of his fortune, by the destruction of two Capital Estates, one near Nants by the Vendeens & the other in Hispaniola by the same cause, a civil war.That Mr. Bougon may met in the United States a kind & welcome reception which he deserves so well is my most ardent wish; et to attend this I cannot do better than to recommend him Strongly tou you, Sir, & whatever you will do in my favor to contribute to the success of his visit et to render his Stay agreable in America will be warmly felt with a due Sense of gratitude by me / I am with Regard / Sir / Your most obedient / & humble Servant\n\t\t\t\t\tLeRay", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1766", "content": "Title: From William Cocke to John Adams, 21 May 1796\nFrom: Cocke, William\nTo: Adams, John,United States Senate\n\t\t\t\tThe Honourable The President and Senate of the United States of America\n\t\t\t\t\tPhiladela. May 21 1796\n\t\t\t\tHaving had the honour of being legally and Constitutionally Elected to Represent the State of Tennessee, in the Senate of the United States, My Duty compels me to claim for that State, the right of being admitted into the Union with the Original States in an equal footing in all respects Whatever, and to notify you, that should any doubts remain, or subsist as to the legality, or expediency of such admission, It is as well my Duty as inclination to remove such Doubts, for which purpose I should gladly be heard on the Floor of the Senate immediately, or at such time as you may please to appoint, when I flatter myself I shall be able to bring forward such Sufficient proof in Support of the rights claimed by the Good People of the State of Tennessee as will be conclusive and entirely Satisfactory to every Member of your Respectable Body.I am / with respect / Your Obt. Servt.\n\t\t\t\t\tWm Cocke", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1767", "content": "Title: From William Blount to John Adams, 23 May 1796\nFrom: Blount, William,Cocke, William\nTo: Adams, John,United States Senate\n\t\t\t\t\tMr. President and Gentlemen of the Senate of the United States,\n\t\t\t\t\tPhiladelphia, Monday, May 23d. 1796.\n\t\t\t\tWe have the Honor to inform you that we are within the walls of your Chamber, ready to produce, to you papers to prove, that we have been duly and legally elected Senators to represent the State of Tennessee in your Body\u2014and that State having a right to be represented in the Congress of the United States, on an equal footing with the original States; in all respects whatever, our Duty compels us to demand that we be now admited to our Seats.\u2014\n\t\t\t\t\tWm. BlountWm Cocke", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1768", "content": "Title: To John Adams from William Tudor, Sr., 27 May 1796\nFrom: Tudor, William, Sr.\nTo: Adams, John\nDear Sir\nBoston 27 May 1796\nI have to regret that I was out of Town the Morning that you called upon me. At the Time Doctor Welsh acquainted me with it he added that you had returned to Braintree, or I should have endeavoured immediately to have seen you, to have thanked you for so kind a Visit, as well as for those many Acts of Friendship from which, in early Life, I derived so much advantage. The Voyage and subsequent Tour I propose making have always been interesting & desirable Objects. As Life properly consists only in the Multiplication of our Ideas, & as I can better at this Period leave my Family than at any future Day, I think myself excusable in gratifying a favourite, & at my Time of Life I presume not a useless Wish. But I cannot leave my Country without rejoicing in its present Prospects in so great a Degree attributable to the Firmness and Providence of the efficient individual Members of our Government. Anxious as I must ever feel for its Prosperity I should dread the Resignation of our fortunate & glorious President, if I did not with ardent Satisfaction anticipate that the good Sense of my Countrymen, & the guardian Genius of America, will place in his Seat the Man among her Citizens who long, energetic and successful Labours coequal in the Cabinet with those of the immortal Washington in the Field of our Revolutions merit & I hope will meet their Supreme Reward.\nBut whether at the Head of the american Nation you shall be destined to dignify her Councils, or direct the Energy of her measures, or aloof from the Turbulence of Politicks, and beyond the Reach of the Malignancy of Party you retire to Philosophic life, may you long live to enjoy the Prosperity of our common Country annually increasing.\nAdieu! my dear Sir, and be assured that I shall ever retain sentiments of Respect & gratitude under a deep impression of which I remain / your obliged Friend & / most faithfull hble Servant\nWm. Tudor", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1769", "content": "Title: From Hannibal Dobbyn to John Adams, 28 May 1796\nFrom: Dobbyn, Hannibal\nTo: Adams, John,United States Senate\n\t\t\t\t\tTo the Honorable the President and Senate of the United States.\n\t\t\t\tThe Memorial of Hannibal William Dobbyn humbly shewethThat Memorialist came to America in the year one thousand seven hundred and eighty nine; to purchase a Tract of Land in the Western Territory of the United States for a Number of respectable Families from Ireland & for himself; that your Memorialist upon his arrival presented a Petition to Congress to be permitted to buy said Lands, which Petition was refered to a Committee, who reported in favour of said Petition; the Secretary of the Treasury not thinking it expedient to open the Sale of the Western Lands, on account of the Indian Title not being at that Time extinguished, Your Memorialist was prevented from compleating said purchase, and has remained in America ever since the Year one thousand seven hundred and eighty nine in daily expectation of confirming it, at a very considerable expence and loss of Time; Your Memorialist having immediately acquainted those Families  who most ardently wished to emigrate to America, that the Committee had reported in favour of their being permitted to purchase Lands, they were induced to sell their property in Ireland; many of whom have been driven to great distress by being so long prevented from acquiring said lands, & by being compelled to live on their Capital, they are so far reduced, as to be totally unable to give the price which Congress has fixed on for them\u2014Your Memorialist therefore humbly prays that Your Honourable House will take the Subject in Your Consideration, and permit him to purchase Lands in the Western Country at the same price at which they were when he presented his former Petition, or at the moderate rate, which You in Your Wisdom shall think proper\n\t\t\t\t\tHannibal William Dobbyn", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1770", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 31 May 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Adams, John\nSir\nDepartment of State May 31. 1796.\nI have the honor to enclose a report on the memorial and petition of William Somarfall & son & John Price, merchants of Charleston, South Carolina, yesterday referred to me by the Senate; and to be with perfect respect, / Sir, / Your most obedient servant \nTimothy PickeringSecy. of State", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1771", "content": "Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 1 June 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nDear Sir\nQuincy June 1. 1796\nAccording to an intimation I gave you at Philadelphia before I left it, I had now the Honour to request the favour of you to Send me a Quarters Salary, in a Post Note for Twelve hundred and fifty Dollars, and I hereby Authorize you to discharge the Warrant neccessary for that Purpose as fully as I could do, if I were Present.\nThe Political World in this Quarter of it, is as Still and calm as a Dutch Canal. We have not yet heard of the Rising of Congress. If any Thing very curious Should turn up, I Should be much obliged to you, for a Line now and then. I am much pleased with the Appointments of Mr King and Mr Humphreys. I Shall have more confidence in future in Representations from abroad.\nWith great Regard and Sincere friendship / I am dear Sir, your most obdt\nJohn Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1772", "content": "Title: From John Adams to Fran\u00e7ois Adriaan Van der Kemp, 3 June 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Van der Kemp, Fran\u00e7ois Adriaan\nDear Sir\nQuincy June 3, 1796\nThe Reverend Dr Belknap and Dr Morse being upon a Journey into your Neighbourhood I have been desirous that they Should have an Opportunity of Seeing you, and that you Should have an Opportunity of Seeing them. They are     clergy men of great Fame and what  better of great Merit. I have not  add any Thing more,  assurances of unva esteem  humble sert\nJohn Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1773", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 6 June 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, John\nMy dear Sir.\nThe Hague June 6. 1796.\nAt length I have been released from a situation, equally remote from all public utility and all personal satisfaction. After a detention which I could not avoid, but which was at least unnecessary, of several months I left London on the 28th: of last month, and arrived here on the 31st: The People there were in the midst of the Saturnalian electioneering holidays. The writs issued for the New Parliament are made returnable on the 12th: of July. The changes will not be numerous and the majorities of the Minister will be as great as they have been hitherto. Such at least was the general opinion, which was confirmed by the elections that had been made previous to my departure.\nThe account of the resolution of the House of Representatives of the United States, relative to the British Treaty, passed on the 17th: of April, had arrived a few days before I came away. It was brought by the Arab, a sloop of War dispatched from New York, expressly for the purpose, and which had a passage of only twenty-three days. The Resolution was considered as the natural precursor of a final decision, not to pass the laws necessary to carry the Treaty into effect on the part of the United States, and the sensation which the intelligence produced was even greater than I should have expected. I confess it made me doubly desirous to quit a country, where the malevolence that is so common against America was exulting in the triumph with which it pointed to the event, as a proof of our Executive imbecility, or of our Legislative perfidy. It was difficult to refute both the alternatives, and I retired with pleasure from the humiliating task of palliating what I felt myself altogether incapable to justify.\nTo all the Americans in England that I met with after the news of this Resolution, it was quite unexpected, as their accounts from home had uniformly led them to the hope or fear of a different event. But I cannot say the case was thus with me, and in my letter of April 4. (N: 19.) which I hope has reached you before this, you will find at full length the opinion that I then held upon the subject. As a party manoeuvre the proceedings to which the House have given their sanction were well conducted, and indeed it would be blindness indeed not to perceive that the operations of that party are conducted with a skill and perseverance, an harmony and consistency which the friends of the Government seldom discover.\u2014That all the weight of french influence was exerted on that occasion is unquestionable. The delivery of the forts was a thing too much dreaded by them to be suffered without a struggle. That event would have been the death blow to all their hopes of engaging the United States in the War and they well knew it was inevitable, if the Treaty did not first meet with non-compliance on our part.\u2014Under the present circumstances the forts will assuredly not be delivered, and the party who have succeeded in preventing it will make them again the watch-word of their war-whoop. You may depend upon it as a certain fact that the french policy of the present day, is determined upon involving us yet in the War. From the complexion of the present House of Representatives I have strong apprehensions that they will succeed: if they do we shall not be found despicable enemies, but what will become of our National Government? what will become of our federal union? I am unwilling to look the prospect in the face.\nIf the late proceedings of the house were to be considered merely as the flashes of anger and resentment against the British Government, whatever my opinion of their wisdom might be, I should concur with my whole soul in the motives, and should have comparatively but trifling apprehensions of the consequences. But the wound is evidently deeper: the symptoms indicate an infallible struggle between the popular and Executive branches of our Government. In such a struggle what will become of the Executive? especially if it should get incumbered with such a distressing War, as they are endeavouring to excite\u2014In my opinion it must inevitably fall.\nThe system of french government in America is not changed as far as I can discover. But an alteration of measures has certainly taken place. The bullying Embassy which I mentioned in my N: 19: as being in contemplation is now said to be laid aside, and even Mr: Pain\u2019s threatened pamphlet has not yet appeared. He has only published a piece upon the English finances, which I sent you from London, and which in his own opinion amply revenges all the injuries and insults which the United States and France have received from Great Britain for the last four years.\u2014What the present views of the American Representation in France are, I am unable to say but the final object of the french system is still to involve us in War, and to new model our Executive.\nI have already written you my ideas as to the purposes of France to raise a combination of all the maritime Powers against Great Britain. It does not however appear probable at present that she will succeed. The difference between Russia and Sweden appears to have been settled by the unconditional submission of the latter, and the Swedish Ambassador at Paris is recalled. The Court of Denmark though stimulated no less than the United States by France, and though provoked by still greater injuries and aggressions by Britain remains in such check by the latter on one side and the Empress on the other that it will not abandon its neutrality at the risk of a contest with them. Spain though upon very indifferent terms with the British Court equally dreads their superior maritime power and if the Italian States under the pressure of the moment should acquiesce in such commercial stipulations as France may subscribe, it they will only repeat the experience of this Country which by land and sea has alternately been made the victim of the two great rival powers.\nThe campaign of Italy commenced and finished in the course of a month has been as brilliant in its operations and as splendid in its success to the french armies, as any of those of the preceding years in other quarters. It has terminated in a Peace with the King of Sardinia, upon the terms dictated by the Directory, and has opened the whole extent of Italy to their arms.\u2014The armistice upon the Rhine was by Notice from the Austrian General to cease on the first of this month and the intelligence of the renewal of hostilities is expected from day to day. The french armies there are said to be in very great force, and as they will probably act principally on the defensive, the imperial forces are not like to make any great impression during this campaign. It is generally supposed that by the close of the Season the Emperor will be so far exhausted as to subscribe even to the sacrifice of the Netherlands for the sake of Peace. From the style of the ministerial Papers in England, it is evident that the Government is beginning to prepare the public mind for that event and for the continuation of the War only between them and France.\nYou will see in the public papers an account of an obscure conspiracy to destroy the present French Constitution, and to massacre the legislative and Executive bodies. At the head of it is said to have been Droust the famous Post Master who stopped the late king in his flight at Varennes; who was afterwards a member of the Convention; was one of his deputies delivered by Dumourier at the time of his defection, to the Austrian General; and was recently returned from thence as one of the persons given in Exchange for the daughter of Louis the 16th. The object of the plot was to restore the reign of the Jacobin faction, and the Constitution of 1793. But there are many persons who think that the Directory have very much exaggerated the facts in order to strengthen themselves by giving an alarm to the People.\nIn this Country a National Assembly representing the whole Republic has since my absence taken the place of the States General, and has now been more than three months in Session. They have appointed from among themselves a Committee to form a Constitution. The members of this Committee while employed upon the work do not retain their seats in the Assembly. It is supposed that the federal union will be abandoned altogether and that the future Republic will be one and indivisible. The organization will resemble that of France. The theory of Government is not like to derive any very useful new discovery from the Batavian Revolution, and they will scarcely venture to abandon in any material article the example of their allies and patrons. The Man whose character was the most strongly marked of any one that has borne a part in the recent events, Mr: Paulus, is dead, nor is it yet seen upon whom his mantle has descended.\u2014But I have been so long absent that I have almost lost the chain of political occurrences here, and since my return I have not yet had time to resume it.\nI have no letters from you since those that Mr: Hall brought me. My own correspondence from England was more frequent than it had previously been. But I have so few correspondents that even acknowledge the receipt of my letters, that I cannot expect constant returns from you, who have so good reasons for not writing.\nI remain in duty and affection, your Son\nJohn Q. Adams.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1775", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Barnabas Bidwell, 20 June 1796\nFrom: Bidwell, Barnabas\nTo: Adams, John\nSir,\nStockbridge, June 20th 1796\nIn behalf of the Connecticut Susquehannah Company, I take the liberty of addressing to you an enquiry relative to one point of their Title to land lying west of New York, within the limits of their Charter, and covered also by the Charter to Sr. William Penn.\nI need not mention that their claim rests upon three foundations, viz. the earliest royal grants, the earliest valid Indian Deed, and the earliest actual occupancy. Their grants from the Crown are contained in the original Charter to the great Plymouth Council, the Assignments deduced down from said Company, through the Earl of Warwick, Sr. Jay &c &the Confirmatory Charter of Charles 2nd. dated in 1662. These all extend westward, it is conceived, to the South Sea. In addition to the express words of the Charters, there are collateral proofs of their extent. The Congress at Albany in 1754, declared that \"The Ancient Colonies of the Massachusetts Bay & Connecticut are were by their Charters respective Charters made to extend to the said South Sea.\" The acceptance of the Cessions from Massachusetts & Connecticut, by the Congress, under the articles of Confederation, are considered as tacit acknowledgments of the western extent of those Charters. You have understood that in negotiating the Peace of 1783 our Ministers urged these Charters, as well as that of Virginia, as an argument for ceding or rather confirming to the United States, the lands westward as far as the Mississippi, the western boundary of the former British dominions; that the British Ministers acknowledged that extent of the grants contained in the Charters; and that it was upon that principle solely, or chiefly that the Western Territory was obtained. If these were the facts, we conceive they furnish additional proof of our construction of the Connecticut Charter, to wit, that it extends westward of the State of New York, whereas the Pennsylvania Claimamants confine it to the eastern side of that State:\nAs you, Sir, acted a principal part in that memorable negotiation, the knowledge of the whole is doubtless in your possession. Such information upon these points, as may be proper to be communicated, I have the honour to request. Whether the negociation was conducted by letter or personal conferences or both; whether the negotiators kept journals of the arguments urged by them; whether, if such documents remain, extracts relative to our purpose would be parted, with liberty to make public use of them, are questions respectfully submitted.\nThe magnitude of the subject, the immense property depending upon the determination, & my duty to the Connecticut Company, as one of their Council; are my apologies for the trouble of this application. Being an entire stranger, I make it with diffidence; but I hope it will be excused. An answer by the mail, as soon as more important occupations will permit, will confer a peculiar obligation upon a numerous class of citizens, who are interested in the event of the question.\nWith sentiments of veneration & the warmest wishes for the prosperity of that Government, which you have so largely contributed to form, to cement, to enlighten & direct, I have the honour to be, Sir, your most obedient humble servant\nBarnabas Bidwell", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1776", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 24 June 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, John\nMy Dear Sir.\nThe Hague June 24. 1796.\nA few days ago, I received your favour of April 5. which acknowledges the receipt of three little scraps from me, merely accompanying the newspapers, and some pamphlets. Your letter speaks of my long ones, but as it does not particularly notice the receipt of any that I wrote from England, I am still a little apprehensive on their account. As my long Letters to you have all been regularly numbered from the time of my arrival in Europe to the present, if any number should be missing you will immediately perceive it. The numbers from 14 to 20. were written in England, and are altogether distinct from the few lines which I generally sent with the newspapers.\u2014I mention these circumstances, because I have yet no intimation from America, that any of my letters from London relative to public affairs have been received, and know not therefore how many of them may have miscarried.\nIf the accounts received here are well founded, the House of Representatives have at last, past the Laws necessary to execute on our part the Treaty with Britain, though by a very small majority. There will therefore now be left no pretext for refusing or delaying any longer the delivery of the forts, and I believe that it will be, or rather that it has been done. If there should be any further cavilling and quibbling on this subject, I think our Government may conclude that all hope or expectation of amicable adjustment are vain, and hope they will pursue such a line of conduct as will either curb an insolence altogether insupportable, or bring to the test the importance of our national friendship.\nThe American Citizens partial to the french interest, that I meet occasionally, and the french political characters with whom I have an opportunity to converse, all foretell, with a confidence, which would alarm if its motive were not discernible, and which even as it is deserves attention, that the forts will not be delivered up according to the Treaty, and some of them undertake particularly to specify the fort of Niagara, which they say will certainly be withheld. This confident foresight however is one of the party manoeuvres. They hoped that the House of Representatives would make such a stand against the Treaty as at least to leave its efficacy in suspense untill after the period designated for the surrender of the Posts. They had no doubt but that in that case the British Government would at least delay the delivery while a question on our side remained, and they were desirous to secure the benefit of a future pretension that the delay on the part of the British, proceeded not from the obstacles raised by us, but from a deliberate and perfidious intention, to make a sport of the most solemn obligations.\u2014This policy has so long been evident to me that I thought the party in our national Representative body would endeavour only to delay the resolve for passing the necessary laws, and would not venture out point-blank against their enactment at all.\u2014\nAs to the good faith of the British Government, I have just the same opinion of it, that I have of their friendly disposition towards the United States, or of their commercial generosity; they are all upon a level, and Heaven forefend that our only dependance for their performance of stipulations should ever rest upon either. But I cannot see what pretext they can now raise to varnish a further delay, and although the influential party among them would rejoyce at an opportunity to go to War with us, they dare not do it without some plausible reason to stimulate the animosity of their own People.\nI feel therefore almost as confident that the Posts will be delivered up, as my french friends are, or appear to be that they will not. I have been obscurely sounded both directly and indirectly, by the french Minister here, to discover my opinion upon this Article, since my return from England, but have not thought it consistent with my duty to gratify his curiosity.\nBut if they should not, upon whatever pretence the denial may be grounded, it will certainly become an important object with our Government to take measures of preparation for a state of hostility, which will in that case I think be unavoidable, and which will scarce be worth attempting any longer to avoid.\nOur only vulnerable part will be our commerce: but that will for a certain period of time be very much exposed, and while the contest continues must expect to be totally suspended, in our own vessels at least. This last part of the evil will admit of no preventive remedy; it must follow from the incontestable superior naval power of Britain, and is proved sufficiently by the present experience of this Republic, as well as France, neither of which have I think an ounce of merchandize a float under their own flags, for any trade but that of coasting; which is likewise very insecure.\nWhether the Government will have the means of providing a shelter for any part of the navigation that will be in danger of immediate capture, I am not able to conjecture. But there are some observations which occur so frequently to my mind, that I cannot avoid mentioning them. If they can be of no service, at least they will do no harm.\nIt has been you know, the policy of Great Britain for more than a hundred years past, whenever she was determined to go to War with any other Nation, to begin hostilities without giving any previous notice, to continue her depredations as long as the patience of her adverse party would bear a continuance of pacific negotiation, and to amuse with one expedient and another; until the defenceless navigation of the complaining power, has been ruined, at least as much as depended upon her: You know likewise that France has by dear experience been so clearly convinced that this is the permanent british system, that in the last War and the present she has taken special care to be beforehand in the attack. From the general disposition of the British Government and Nation towards the United States, and more especially from their conduct towards us during the present War, we may be assured that she will invariably follow the same principles in her differences with us. The orders of Council of the 6th: of November 1793. are alone a sufficient proof of their dispositions, and indeed when the Nature of the british power is considered, the conclusion is inevitable, that the course cannot possibly be otherwise.\nLet us take it therefore for granted that such will be the maxims of the cabinet, and let us suppose that the intention to make an application of them to America should exist. It is apparent that the more the American commerce is extended the more it will inevitably suffer from this species of preliminary plunder. These facts being so clear make the very magnitude of the commerce into which our neutrality has led our countrymen, a subject of alarm.\u2014I, appears evident to me that at this moment our People are over-trading; that a larger portion of the capital of the Country is employed in commerce and navigation, than it can support, and that we shall suffer for it either during the War, by getting involved in it, or at the Peace by the exclusions which will naturally follow from the regulations of the powers now belligerent.\nI am apprehensive that this over-trading will continue and have a tendency to increase still further the longer the War shall last without our participating in it. Should this be the case, we shall be continually more exposed to injury, the further we advance, and continually offer to the rapacity of the british navy a fairer object of plunder.\nWe have no naval power of our own, and from the general temper of our People, I suspect that they will never submit to the expence without which it can neither be created nor maintained, untill a bitter experience shall teach them that in the present state of the world, and with such a Nation as Britain existing, the expence of a respectable naval power is the price, which must be paid for a secure commerce, by every other.\nI know not whether our Government is in possession of any means that can restrain the boundless avidity of our commercial speculators, who seem in many instances to think that a power which cannot exact obedience, is however competent to give protection. They will therefore venture upon the wildest commercial schemes, and when they have brought them into trouble curse the Government for not helping them out. It is a fact which the popular Passions would refuse to hear, but which I firmly believe, that the stipulations in the British Treaty which have abandoned for the present the power of protecting Enemies\u2019 property in neutral vessels, will have an operation very favourable to the United States, by checking that excessive extraordinary trade, which must be stopp\u2019d entirely upon the return of Peace. The present state of our Commerce may be compared to a boiling fluid, which unless properly guarded, swells and overflows, but upon subsiding leaves the vessel emptied in part of its contents.\nI sometimes think that you will judge from the complection of my letters, that my imagination is apt to raise phantoms and then tremble before them: that my opinions have too strong a tincture of timidity for the boldness necessary to a political character.\u2014And I freely confess that the neutrality of the United States throughout the present War untill its final termination is in my mind an object of such inestimable value, and involves so deeply the welfare not of the present age only, but of all posterity that I may perhaps be inclined to see through a magnifying medium every thing that can have a tendency to defeat it. It is certain that France and this Country too, are ardently desirous to engage us in the War. The principal inducements which have heretofore contributed to make France acquiesce in our neutrality have recently been removed. They were, the debt which we owed them, and their dependence upon us for provisions. Their present plenty, and the prospect of an abundant Harvest make them confident of producing sufficient for their own subsistence, and that part of the debt that remained undischarged has been sold to a private company. On the other hand France has a fair hope of making an advantageous and honourable Peace with Austria, her only remaining formidable continental enemy, and she expects to be soon left to contend with Britain alone whose relative situation is so advantageous that there is no prospect of her consenting to a Peace, such as the french Government think themselves obliged to require. For it is to be remarked that the situation of Britain relative to France is similar to that of France relative to the continental powers. The Dutch Colonies both of East and West Indies are falling one after another into the hands of the British. And unless France can procure some other resource besides her maritime exertions, her own possessions will meet the same fate. That resource I have more than once mentioned to you in my former letters. It is to distress the british commerce by uniting all the maritime powers in War against her, or rather by provoking them all to quarrel with her. This system was pursued with Sweden, and was on the point of succeeding, when the Empress of Russia interfered in her usual style by prescribing the most humiliating conditions, to which after some blustering Sweden was compelled to submit. The Ambassador your old acquaintance de Stael is therefore removed from Paris, and the french policy may be considered as entirely defeated at present in Sweden. The same terror of Russia controuls the Danish Cabinet, which appears inflexibly determined upon the preservation of neutrality, though they are no less indignant than ourselves at the depredations and insolence of the British. It was but the other day, that they cut out a french or Dutch vessel, from the Port of Bergen. The french Government complained in an high tone, but the final answer they received was that they had been and should be protected as far as the Danish Government was able, but if they expected their vessels to be safe, they must direct them to anchor only in the Ports that are well fortified, and of strength beyond an insult. Hamburg has also resisted the french operations which would have involved their City with the Emperor. But as France had a vast number of their vessels in her Ports she has dealt not so ceremoniously with them, but embargoed them all, and now insists upon a large sum as a price of accommodation.\u2014In Spain the french views have a better prospect of success. The differences between that Government and the British encrease and the harmony of the former with the French Republic is likewise augmenting.\u2014The success of the Italian campaign has laid the Princes of that Country at the feet of the Directory, who prescribe to them all their own terms of Peace. It is said, and with the greatest appearance of probability that they will required of the king of Sardinia, the Duke of Modena, the Pope, and the king of Naples, as indispensable terms such stipulations as will exclude the British from all their Dominions. Tuscany is indeed a neutral power, but will be so much at the mercy of the French, that the Government will no doubt be very much under their influence. As to their respect for neutral rights, they may be inferred from what the commander in chief Buonaparte writes recently to the Directory. He has taken possession of Verona in the Venetian territory; and of course a neutral city. But it seems the french Pretender not long since had resided there, and Buonaparte says that if he had not been gone before his arrival, he would have set fire to the city, for having the insolence to think itself the capital of the french Empire.\nIt is not improbable therefore that they will be able to shut the whole Italian market against the British Navigation, and if so it will become very difficult for the British to retain Corsica, or to maintain their Commerce in the black sea. The french therefore have a fair prospect of excluding their enemy from the benefit of trade with all Europe, excepting only the Baltic, and it is the power of Russia which alone will hinder them from obtaining the same advantage there.\u2014If in addition to this they can equally deprive her of all the immense advantages of the American Market, they think, and with great appearance of reason, that the british commerce must decline so as to occasion a deficiency of revenue, a loss of credit, perhaps a deficiency of national payments, and such a general distress and clamour for Peace, as will bring the haughtiness of Britain down to the modesty even of a pacification at the expence of many sacrifices; or perhaps they flatter themselves with the still more pleasing hope of seeing their inveterate and deadly rival, a completely ruined Nation.\nIt is not to be doubted therefore, but that France will use all the influence in her power to produce a War between the United States and Britain.\u2014What her influence is at all times, and what her talents at exerting it, are perfectly well known to you. But there is one cause operating at present which gives unusual weight to her influence, and of which few people among us I believe are aware.\u2014The public opinion in America concerning European affairs is in a considerable degree formed from the representations of the Americans, arriving occasionally from Europe, or writing from some part of it to their Friends. But it so happens that nine tenths of the Americans both in France and England have powerful motives both of feeling and of interest to bias their judgments: to make them favourable to the french cause and adverse to the british. The motives of feeling arise not only from the popularity, which the ideas of a struggle for Liberty has given to the french, but from the difference of treatment that the our countrymen experience in the two Countries. In the general treatment of strangers the french manners are captivating, the English are repulsive. In the particular sentiments towards Americans which give the tone to the behaviour of individuals, those of France are amicable and attractive, those of England always cold and distant, generally insolent and overbearing, and not unfrequently contemptuous and malignant.\u2014It is impossible for any American having the common feelings of a Man, to be conversant with the two Nations, without contracting an instinctive propensity of good-will towards the former, and of malevolence or at least of resentment towards the latter. The motives of interest have the same tendency. Great numbers of the Americans in France have debts due to them from the french Government. Almost all have speculated either in the purchase of confiscated estates or of Assignats, or in some other manner, upon revolutionary ground. It is not necessary to reason at any great length, in order to shew that the private interest of all such persons is concerned in the success of France through the war, and in her attainment of an advantageous Peace. On the other hand the Americans in England are almost universally indebted more or less to the British merchants, and they generally believe that a War between the United States and Britain would serve as a spunge for their debts, or at least relieve them from payment as long as it should last, and leave them in the meantime possessed of the capital upon which the debts arose. There are some Americans and they are among the number of those whose abilities give their statements and representations the greatest weight who have all these motives operating upon them at once; who are at the same time debtors to British Merchants, creditors to the french Government and speculators in all the french revolutionary funds, all to an immense amount.\u2014These persons as creditors of the french Government, if not in any other capacity have access to many members of the Legislative and Executive bodies. With all their incentives of feeling and of interest, they are not only stimulated to wish well to France, but may be sensible that they cannot ingratiate themselves better than by contributing to the furtherance of the french views, and the conclusion of the whole matter is that the whole weight and influence of such people in America, is far from being friendly to the Peace of the United States. It is easy to conceive how much energy this kind of combination may have acquired, by a regular intercourse, and concerted operations with the principal partizans for War, in the United States; as the force of such a concert would be but the more efficacious for being secret.\nThere is nothing therefore but a Peace between France and Britain that can extricate us from the danger of being sooner or later involved in the quarrel. But at the same time it is evident that the state of affairs at present makes it more than ever the interest of the british Government to avoid a rupture with us. The longer the war continues the more that interest will encrease, from the double cause of their constant weakening, and our continually growing strength. These circumstances will not be overlooked I trust by the American Government, nor by whatever negotiator shall finish the business relative to the late Treaty. That subject will be of extreme delicacy; for on the one hand it will offer abundant occasions to try seriously the degree of pliability of which the british cabinet is capable, and on the other there will be some danger of straining that string too far. By the full effect that is now given to the Treaty on our part, the advantage of Justice appears to be altogether on our side, and if we must eventually try the temper of our swords that circumstance will at least afford a great consolation.\nFrom some of the facts upon which these observations are founded, there may be drawn an inference that in all times of maritime War, the closest possible attention is to be paid by the American Minister in England to the proceedings of the privy Council. It is upon orders proceeding from them that all the captures by the King\u2019s ships and privateers, are founded, and when the object of the Government is to negotiate and plunder at the same time, as long as the patience of those whom they injure may last, these orders are kept as secret as possible. It should therefore I think be a standing instruction to our Minister at that Court, whenever they are at War, to use all the endeavours in his power to obtain information of the secret orders of Council to the commanders of armed vessels. I know not how far it could at any time be effected, but I am fully perswaded that the day will come, when such information if procured at the time when the orders are resolved on, will prove of the utmost utility to the protection of our own commercial property.\nI remain with every dutiful and affectionate sentiment, your son\nJohn Q. Adams.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1777", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Archibald Maclaine, 26 June 1796\nFrom: Maclaine, Archibald\nTo: Adams, John\nHonoured and Worthy Sir!\nHague June 26. 1796\nI seize with avidity the opportunity presented to me by the Bearer of recalling to your remembrance a man, who has been constantly nourishing, these nine years past, the pleasing feelings of esteem and attachment which accompany his daily remembrance of you and who will ever retain a deep and grateful impression of the kind marks of attention with which you honoured him during your residence at the Hague. Indeed, Sir, I think of you every day, both as a man and a statesman with the highest veneration,\u2014and I peruse your learned labours with new pleasure in these calamitous times, which exhibit terrible and afflicting proofs of the truth of your doctrine.\u2014But alas! what can doctrine or science do, when virtue and principle have, (astrea\u2013like!) returned to heaven, and left, for a time, the affairs of our continent (with the wise but awful permission of Providence) to the fury and frenzy of the greatest of all tyrants\u2014the passions of men?\nI do not pretend to inform you of the situation of affairs here, as you must derive much better instruction, on that head, than I can give, from the worthy American minister here, who cannot apply to his Diplomatick Situation the words of David, when he said the lines are fallen to me in pleasant places.\u2014I will only say that the state of this country for three years past cost me my health, and temporal happiness,\u2014because I loved the country, received many marks of friendship and esteem from its inhabitants, and enjoyed in their society: during a long series of years, great satisfaction and comfort.\u2014All that is now blasted,\u2014and I have at last resolved to pass the Channel, please God, in the course of this month and set myself down at Bath, for the few remaining days of my chequer\u2019d life.\nWill you, honored Sir, add to former marks of your goodness to me one more, in favour of the bearer of this letter, Mr. John Bikker, a young man of merit, of one of the best families in Amsterdam, whose father, was in the Government there and left a large fortune to his children. I don\u2019t mean, that he should obtain from your goodness and condescension any thing farther than the honour of making you his bow and the precious advantage of your good advice, to enable him to travel with profit thro\u2019 the American Provinces,\u2014where he will see true liberty. He goes there to get out of the reach of its Counterfeit here, and its infernal antipode elsewhere.\nI am sure you will pardon the freedom I take of refreshing your remembrance of your old Parish Priest and asking an audience for Mr. Bikker.\u2014I have a secret persuasion that I shall obtain your indulgence when I consider the Sentiments of veneration and affection which are constantly assisting you across the Atlantic and with which I shall be, dum spiritus hos reget artus / Honored Sir! / your most respectfully affectionate / and devoted servant\nA. MaClaine\nP:S: I was chosen some years ago a member of the Boston Academy, & received my Diploma with a letter from Eliphalet Pearson; whose venerable Pronomen gave a solemn Old-Testament-Test to my Literary Promotion. I was and will always be proud of this honourable distinction, but not knowing how it could find out an obscure man at such a vast distance, my first thoughts were and still continue to be, that I owed it to your recommendation. I however wrote a Letter of humble thanks to the academy, addressed to the Gentleman above-mentioned, and accompanied with a Theologico-Philosophical Dissertation;\u2014which I hope was received, tho\u2019 at that time the means of correspondence were not so easy as they have been since.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1778", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Rutherford, 28 June 1796\nFrom: Rutherford, John\nTo: Adams, John\nDear Sir\nTranquillity 28th June 1796\nI put the outline of the report on manures which you were so kind as to send me into the hands of Mr Boardley, while he was reading it he made notes on several parts of it and has transcribed them for me, as they may be of service in preparing general observations on the report in the manner proposed by the author I take the liberty to transmit them to you.\nI am enjoying a delightful calm, after the ferment of last winter, and as we are all of one mind here, I have not heard a dispute on politics since I left Francis\u2019s\nWith the greatest respect and esteem I am Dear Sir /  your most obedient / humble Servant\nJohn Rutherford", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1779", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Thompson, 12 July 1796\nFrom: Thompson, Benjamin\nTo: Adams, John\nSir /\nLondon\u201412th: July 1796.\nDesirous of contributing efficaciously to the advancement of a Branch of Science which has long employed my Attention, and which appears to me to be of the highest Importance to Mankind, and wishing at the same time to leave a lasting Testimony of my respect for the American Academy of Arts and Sciences,\u2014I take the liberty to request that the Academy would do me the Honor to accept of Five Thousand Dollars Three per Cent stock in the Funds of the United States of North America, which stock I have actually purchased, and which I beg leave to transfer to the Fellows of the Academy, to the end that the Interest of the same may be by them, and by their successors, received from Time to Time, for ever, and the Amount of the same applied and given once every Second Year as a premium to the Author of the most Important Discovery or useful Improvement which shall be made and published by printing, or in any way made Known to the Public, in any part of the Continent of America, or in any of the American Islands, during the preceeding two years, on Heat or on Light, the preference always being given to such Discoveries as shall in the Opinion of the Academy tend most to promote the good of Mankind.\u2014\nWith regard to the formallities to be observed by the Academy in their Decisions upon the Comparative Merits of those Discoveries which in the Opinion of the Academy may intitle their Authors to be Considered as Competitors for the biennial Premium, the Academy will be pleased to adopt such Regulations as they in their Wisdom may judge to be proper and necessary\u2014But in regard to the Form in which this premium is conferred, I take the liberty to Request that it may always be given in two Medals, struck in the same dye, the one of Gold and the other of Silver, and of such Dimensions that both of them together may be just equal in intrinsic value to the Amount of the Interest of the aforesaid Five Thousand Dollars stock during two Years;\u2014that is to say, that they may together be of the Value of Three hundred Dollars.\u2014\nThe Academy will be pleased to order such Device or inscription to be Engraved on the Dye they shall cause to be prepared for striking these Medals, as they may judge proper.\u2014\nIf during any term of two Years, reckoning from the last adjudication, or from the last period for the adjudication of this premium by the Academy, no new Discovery or Improvement should be made in any part of America, relative to either of the Subjects in Question,  (Heat or Light,) which, in the opinion of the Academy, shall be of sufficient Importance to deserve this premium, in that case, it is my desire that the premium may not be given, but that the Value of it may be reserved and being laid out in the Purchase of Additional stock in the American Funds may be employed to Augment the Capital of this premium, and that the Interest of the Sums by which the Capital may from time to time be so augmented may regularly be given in Money with the two Medals and as an addition to the Original Premium, at each succeeding adjudication of it.\u2014And it is farther my Particular request that those Additions to the Value of the Premium arising from its occasional Non-adjudications may be suffered to increase without limitation\u2014\nWith the highest respect for the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the most Earnest Wishes for their success in their labours for the good of Mankind\u2014I have the Honor to be with much Esteem and Regard,\u2014 / Sir / Your most Obedient / Humble Servant\nRumford", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1781", "content": "Title: To John Adams from James Sullivan, 30 July 1796\nFrom: Sullivan, James\nTo: Adams, John\nSir\nBoston July 30th 1796\nUpon contemplating the subject of settleing the eastern boundary of the untied States, and attending to of expression in the treaty of 1795, that the commissioners shall decide what river was intended by the commissioners at Paris in 1783, as the Saint Croix; I am of opinion that it is necessary to establish the facts, that Mitchells map was, as an authority before the commissioners, and that the river thereon marked as the boundary of of the Massachusetts, was by them intended as the Saint Croix. For their purposes I think it will be necessary to obtain the evidence of these facts from the Commissioners themselves. I have therefore, since I had the honor of an interview with you, forwarded a letter to Governor Jay, requesting him to give me in writing, inform of an affidavit, or otherwise, as shall be most agreeable to him, and most conducive to the national interest, his recollection on this subject. I have the honor to make the same request to you, knowing that you are my best judge of the propriety, as well as of the necessity of such a measure, and that you will readily do Whatever may be properly done in this exigency. Perhaps one fact is very important, that it was not intended by the Treaty of 1783 to give any new boundary to the east side of Massachusetts.\nI am with the greatest / respect your most / humble Servant\nJa Sullivan", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1783", "content": "Title: From John Adams to James Sullivan, 2 August 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Sullivan, James\nSir\nQuincy August 2. 1796\nI received; last Evening the Letter you did me the honour to write me, the 30th of July, and am ready to give you all the Information in my power\nMitchel\u2019s Maps was the only one, which the Ministers Plenipotentiary of The United States and The Minister Plenipotentiary of great Britain made use of in their Conferences and Discussions relative to the Boundaries of the United States, in their Negotiation of the Peace of 1783 and of the Provisional Articles of the 30th of November 1782. Upon that Maps and that only were these Boundaries delineated: and the River marked on that Map, with the Name of St. Croix, was the River agreed upon as the Eastern Boundary of the State of Massachusettes and of the United States. It was not intended by either Party to give any new Boundary to the East Side of Massachusetts; but the real Eastern Boundary of the Province of Massachusetts Bay, according to the Charter of William and Mary was intended to be the Eastern Boundary of the United States. To the forgoing Facts I am ready to attest in any manner that may be judged neccessary: and if Mr Jay should transmit you an Affidavit I shall be very willing to do the same. But I can scarsely think it neccessary because I cannot believe that any of these Facts will be denied or questioned\u2014\nThe decease of Mr Oswald is unfortunate because I am well assured he would have avowed all these Facts with the utmost frankness and Candor. Mr Whiteford the Secretary to his Commission I am confident will readily admit them all. Mr William Franklin the Secretary to the American Commission knows them. Dr Franklin before his Death transmitted to the then Secretary of State Mr Jefferson as I was informed by him a full State of this affair according to this Reccollection, a Document which probably Col. Pickering has transmitted to you\u2014if not it may be usefull for you to obtain it from his office. Lord St Helens formerly Mr Fitzherbert might or might not be informed by Mr oswald at the time. If he was I have confidence enough in his Lordships Honour and Candour to believe that he will confirm all that I have Said. Benjamin Vaughan Esq might or might not be informed. if he was, either by Mr oswald or Mr Whiteford or any of the American Ministers his Testimony cannot but corrobrate the Account I have given.\nWishing you a pleasant Voyage and Safe return / I have the Honour to be, Sir, your most / Obedient\nJohn Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1785", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Thomas Pinckney, 6 August 1796\nFrom: Pinckney, Thomas\nTo: Adams, John\nSir:\nLondon 6th August 1796\nI have the honor of forwarding herewith two parcels addressed to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences at Cambridge & a letter addressed to yourself as President of that Society, which were committed to my charge by Count Rumford.\nA duplicate of the letter and one other parcel are sent by a different conveyance.With my best wishes for the prosperity of that valuable institution & for your own health & happiness, I remain Sir, your most respectful / & obedient Servant\nThomas Pinckney", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1786", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 13 August 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, John\nMy dear Sir\nThe Hague August. 13. 1796\nA few days ago, I received from England, together, your favours of March 25., May 5., and June 10. The two first were brought to London and forwarded from thence by Mr. Cook, whom as recommended by you, I shall be happy to see either here or in England, if his or my peregrinations should at any time bring us within reach of each other. At the same time I received with several other letters one from the Secretary of State dated June 11. one day later than the last from you. But various circumstances induce me to believe the purport of its contents were then unknown to you, and even unexpected. You will perhaps think them rationally sufficient to induce a submission to the ostracism a little longer.\nYour indifference concerning the event of a possible future competition; the determination to be altogether passive, and the intrepedity with which the prospects of either decision are contemplated I readily believe; and rejoice in believing them, because I have no doubt but that the transaction will call for the exercise of all those qualities in an eminent degree. Besides the innumerable sources of opposition, all native Americans, and the principles of which are so fully unfolded in your great political work, you will expect all the art and intrigue of France, and all its weight and influence concerted with the american adverse party, in formal array displayed against you. Their talents at political manoeuvre, are well known and appreciated by you. The range of their means comprehending everything that can be atchieved, and limited by no scruple of general morality is understood. The popularity of their pretexts, the terror of their brilliant success in War, and the natural disposition among men of cringing before the insolence of victory, are duly estimated. You will also be prepared I presume for an opposition equally malignant, though more concealed, and perhaps during the first period altogether inactive, from the rival influence of G. Britain nor are you unaware of the dangers to which the station at the helm will be exposed at the most tempestuous political season that the world perhaps ever witnessed, when the elements of civil Society are rapidly and inevitably returning to Chaos in Europe and at a moment when the fame of the predecessor has heaped to such accumulation the burden of the successor\u2019s tasks. All, I am well convinced has been maturely weighed. It remains for me as a Man, as an American, and as your Son, only to say, quod felix, faustumque sit!\nSince I wrote you last many important events have occurred serving to unfold the views of the french Government, and they all tend to confirm the certainty of that system of policy which has made the subject of many of my former letters to you, and which I have hinted with more caution in some of my letters to the Secretary of State, because I have felt myself more at liberty to indulge in conjecture in a private correspondence, than when official responsibility is attached to the accuracy of opinions The french armies upon the Rhine have been not much less successful than that of Italy had been before The campaign is not yet terminated, but the Duke of Wirtemberg and the Margrave of Baden have purchased a cessation of hostilities and with many other of the German Princes are negotiating their separate Peace The king of Prussia on his side is encroaching upon the imperial dominions and has taken quiet possession of the City of Nurenberg. The Empire is to be dissolved entirely and the House of Austria reduced to the hereditary possessions. A new Empire or confederation is to be formed at the head of which the king of Prussia, in alliance with France is to be placed, and perhaps the Duke of Brunswick retreat from Champagne in 1792 may be cleared of some part of the obscurity with which it has been surrounded, by the arrangements which are on the point of being put into effect. These arrangements are of the greatest importance to the political system of Europe, and will perhaps give the final blow to that balance which the first division of Poland invaded An entirely new order of political combinations formed, for all Europe, and there is every prospect at present that it will be effected.\nThe french Government has formally assumed for a principle of their negotiations that G. Britain shall not interfere in any of the continental arrangements. They are preparing for the expected event of a struggle with her alone, and pursue the system of taking the markets of the world from her commerce with a degree of ardour uncontrouled by any regard for other nations or for their own stipulations. They have seriously determined to produce a Revolution of Government in Great Britain, and as they have very powerful means of Execution they flatter themselves with the hope of success The plan appears to me very extravagant, but in the present State of Europe, it is impossible to predict what its Event will be. Probably they will grow sick of their revolutionary scheme, and settle at length in a Peace in which both parties will take breath to begin again a War more furious even than the present.\nThey have proceeded in their purposes to obtain possession of the Coast of Italy. The property belonging to their Enemies, which they found at Leghorn, they have taken under the pretext of considering it as property captured at Sea. They have not yet absolutely taken similar possession of Genoa, but they are endeavouring to pick a quarrel with the Government of that Republic, and already threaten them in their usual tone.\nThe british fleet in the mediterranean has blockaded Leghorn, and they have in their turn taken possession of Porte Ferrajo in the island of Elba, which they say they hold merely to prevent the french from taking it in order to direct from thence an expedition against Corsica. A number of privateers have been fitted out from Corsica to intercept the french commerce in the mediterranean, who are said to have taken some neutral vessels bound to Leghorn.\u2014This circumstance has furnished the french Government with an occasion to bring forward another instrument of their new system of which I have no doubt but you will hear much in America.\nThe political agents of France, with all the neutral Governments, are directed to address to them with Energy, the voice of their own Interest, and after telling them that they are upon the point of being made the victims of English Ambition, to declare: \u201cthat the french Government are informed, the English have issued new positive orders to their commanders of armed vessels to seize all cargoes destin\u00e9s aux Francois, in neutral vessels; and that the commanders of the Squadrons and Privateers of the Republic are ordered to treat the vessels of the neutral Nations, in the same manner as their Governments shall suffer the English to treat them.\" This is to be stated as an act of reprizal against the British, and is to be seasoned with proper encomiums of upon the honour and generosity of  France and upon her profound respect for the Laws of Nations, the only tie and security of civilized life, as well as  with proper sallies against the perfidy, and Machiavelian policy of Britain\u2014In connection with this may be mentioned that Mr Adet, is to be recalled, and Mangourit, the former noted Consul at Charleston appointed to succeed him. Mangourit is now Secretary to the french legation in Spain. You have doubtless heard that it has been in contemplation between France and Spain to exchange the part of Saint Domingo, ceded to the former by the late Treaty of Peace, for Louisiana, upon our Continent\u2014There is at present in Paris one if not more of the South Carolinians who accepted the Commissions of Genet, and drew upon themselves the animadversions of the S. Carolina legislature. He has made himself very conspicuous among the Americans, by every species of censure upon the President, and the Government of the United States. He has probably too much encouragement for such conduct and conversation, which by means of him and of other similar characters is so industriously spread among the Americans in Paris, as to make the french naturally conclude it must be the general public opinion in America. Several facts are here mentioned together, and you will probably be aware that they are not grouped altogether at random. Their connection will perhaps be much better understood by you, than it is comprehended by me. Our Country must be upon its guard. I must add however that I am informed it is probable another person may be appointed instead of Mangourit.\nMr. Pain is said to be yet writing his pamphlet against the President of the United States, and his administration, but he does not now live in the house of Mr. Monroe. He has retired to Surenne a village near Paris.\u2014There was much threatening of this pamphlet, and of this new mission, last Winter, but the latter measure was suspended by the french Government, perhaps to give our House of Representatives an opportunity to refuse their concurrence for the Execution of our Treaty with Britain\u2014At present, the threat at least of both the measures is revived. The pamphlet war against the character of the President was begun under the auspices of the french Government, the last Summer. If it is now to be renewed it will be still under their auspices, but they may perhaps discover that his personal feelings and fortunes are as inaccessible to their attacks, as his fame But as panegyric and calumny are equally among their means, and they are perfectly indifferent which of them it is they employ, the choice is decided by circumstances only, and they will at an hour\u2019s warning be prepared to erect a statue to him whom they find they cannot ruin\nBut measures and not men is their maxim, and their only means of destroying a system, is by attacking the person upon whom they suppose its support to depend. It may therefore be expected that the french Government  and their pamphleteers will from the same batteries only change the direction of their Artillery. The object will remain the same to force us out of our neutrality, to deprive us at least of all connection with Britain, and to alter our Constitution to such a form, as shall give them a more certain and effectual influence over our national Executive.\nThe energetic mode in which they purpose to shew the neutral Governments their own Interests, and this appointment of Mangourit indicates that they mean to resume the system of terror, in their external relations, and if I judge from the letters I receive from some of their adherents, they imagine that these new measures will throw the American Government into such a profound consternation that they will think themselves fortunate to obtain forgiveness by unqualified submission. They tell me of the rage of the french Government at our Treaty with Britain, of their inflexible determination to resent it by some determined act, of their raising their tone as they advance in victory of the dreadful consequences to be apprehended from their resentments, and which nothing under Heaven can avert, unless it be peradventure the extreme prudence of Mr. Monroe, in whom they have very great confidence It is from native Americans that I receive under hand and seal this language fit for the remorse of a worm of the dust, in the presence of offended omnipotence; from a man particularly, from Pennsylvania, a deep speculator in the french revolutionary funds, and a confidential friend of Mr. Monroe, together with Hichborn, whose conversation was of exactly the same complection more than a twelve month ago.\nThe Drawcansir style of these letters would divert you, if you should see them, because the intention with which they were written would be discerned by you at once. They profess to be confidential communications, but are so far from really possessing that character, that while they are all foaming with the froth of french indignation, they studiously conceal the measures which the Directory had determined to pursue, and which must have been known to the writer, at the time when he wrote. Neither the orders to make enemy\u2019s property in neutral vessels, nor the recall of Adet, nor the appointment of Mangourit were hinted to me from by him. My intelligence comes from other quarters.\nIf they really mean to confiscate only enemy\u2019s property found in neutral vessels, that indeed will be an act violent and unjust enough considering it as a direct and positive violation of the stipulation in our Treaty; yet considering that our vessels will be like to have but little property to carry belonging to their enemies, and also that they cannot keep many armed vessels in any sea, to infest our trade, owing to the naval superior force of their antagonist I think they will not injure us much by this. If its eventual issue should be such as to controul in some degree the overflowings of our commercial enterprize, a benefit may result from it, as it will weaken the shock of a diminished trade, that must await us at the termination of a War, when all the parties now contending will encourage as much as the possible their domestic navigation by the exclusion of that of strangers But from the very vague manner in which the orders intimated to have been issued, are expressed, they may design to extend the practice of depredation much further than the British ever have. They probably do not intend to treat us as the British have done this Season, at least in these European Seas, for they have not as I hear captured a single vessel for months past; though they have had an undisputed command of the Seas, and board almost every neutral vessel that floats upon them, they let them all pass, and there are numbers of Americans arriving now every day in the ports of this Republic as well as in those of France.\nIf the admiralty Courts of France are to condemn all the property various found on board neutral vessels, destin\u00e9s aux ennemis de la Republique Francaise, and this expression is to be understood in all the latitude of which it is susceptible, it will be a treatment much more injurious than ever we have experienced from the British, as it will assume the principle of intercepting all our navigation whatsoever destined to the Ports of the nations at enmity with France But I cannot believe this to be the intention. The manner in which the orders are executed will soon discover the design. I only give you conjectures, which with other circumstances perceptible to you, though unknown to me may have a tendency to prepare you for the explosion of the mine that is working.\nI am unwilling to believe that the french Government has been taught to found the support of their influence in the United States upon a wretched distinction between the policy and interest of one part of the Union in opposition to those of another; or that they have been induced to suppose they could gratify and promote its agricultural by distressing its commercial power. I sometimes imagine that this recent order is rather meant as a false attack, to avert the attention of our Government from another more formidable which they keep in reserve. It has indeed been hinted that they  had thought of stopping their payment to those of our Citizens to whom they are indebted, untill our Government shall have reclaimed the property taken from our vessels belonging to the inhabitants of St. Domingo\u2014That they will catch at any pretext to stop their payments is very probable, since they have in many instances already stopped them without any pretext at all, except that of their own necessity. They have so many of the beasts with great bellies, which must be fed, that plenteous as their plunder has been during the present campaign, their finances have become more and more irretrievable from day to day. But as this measure has been formally announced, I question much whether it will be employed.\nIt is proper however that you should be aware, that to all appearance they have seriously resumed the plan of revolutionizing the whole world, so openly professed by the Brissotins party in 1792, though at present they think proper totally to deny such a design. I have reason to believe however that they are fomenting stirring up the leas of democracy among their friends the Danes, and even in the dominions of their intended dear Prussian ally. In the states of all the German Princes they are indefatigable, and are working upon materials, which require scarce any thing but the accidental spark to kindle a flame as devouring as that of France. The Directory have persisted  in their refusal to receive the Baron de Rehausen, as charg\u00e9 des affaires from Sweden and have ordered him to leave Paris They have further ordered their charg\u00e9 des affaires in Sweden to leave Stockholm, after assuring the Swedish Nation of the friendship of the french Republic. There are some obscure symptoms, indicating their disposition at the present juncture to inflame a political odium against the Government of Venice; and in Geneva there has been it is said a new Insurrection in which the People deposed all their magistrates and requested the french Resident provisionally to supply their places\nIn the midst of all these revolutionary projects, the Directory, is not itself without internal enemies equally disposed to overturn them and their constitution. It has been openly avowed as the object of the conspiracy at the head of which were Drouet and Baboeuf. The trial of those persons is not yet completed. At the annual municipal elections, they were attended with tumult and massacre at Marseilles, at Aix and several other places in the Southern Departments. At Paris, the Directory were so apprehensive of similar consequences that they found it expedient to address a proclamation to the People warning them against the designs of the terrorists; and the renewal of one third of the legislative councils at this moment is a period of particular anxiety to them. The rebellion in the Vendee appears to be finally quelled entirely, and the inhabitants are all disarmed. Paris is yet nearly in the same State, and has besides an army of sixty thousand men to secure its tranquility close at its gates\u2014The Government itself is said not to be united. Sieyes is opposed to their prevailing system, or at least preparing to abandon them in case of need. Their Minister of foreign affairs, if not involved more or less in the affair of Drouet, favours at least the terrorist party as much as he can. It is intimated, that he keeps secret agents in foreign Countries to act as spies upon the public acknowledged Ministers appointed by the Directory. One of the Ministers from the Republic in France, and the Minister of Geneva, have been removed, owing to some kind of connection with the intrigue of Drouet. The General Buonaparte in Italy, is said to pay them but little respect, and rumours with regard to him have circulated, which the Directory have thought it necessary positively to contradict. They employ for the same pamphleteering engines, to fix themselves that they use to unseat every other Government, and while with one hand they are endeavouring to tear up every root of confidence in settled establishments, with the other they are imploring for themselves the confidence of their own people, and of foreign nations without being able to obtain it.\nFrom repeated intimations which have been made to me by the Danish Legation here, with which I have been upon very friendly terms, from my first acquaintance with the Minister and the Secretary, I find that the Government of Denmark, would be pleased to have an exchange of Ministers between the United States and them. They doubtless expect the compliment of receiving the first, as the eldest party, but if they were sure of a return, I know not but they would overlook the mere point of sending first. It has been hinted to me that while the United States have Ministers with almost all the commercial Powers in Europe, it looks something like an unpleasant distinction to see them omit sending one to that which commands the passage of the Sound, and with which the United States have already a considerable direct commerce. I have never mentioned these circumstances before for two reasons. The first, because I had no inclination to promote the multiplication of the American foreign Missions unnecessarily; and the second, because I thought it might tend to raise a suspicion of a personal motive on my part, founded upon the desire to enlarge our diplomatic field. Under my present destination the latter cannot influence me, and I pretend not to judge of the necessity, or propriety of the measure. I only state a fact and an argument as it has been presented to me by persons who certainly did not use them without authority.\nYour dutiful Son\nP.S. Our old friend Dumas, died suddenly on the 11th. instt:", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1788", "content": "Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 29 August 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nDear Sir\nQuincy August 29. 1796\nMy Wants are So numerous and my means of Supplying them So moderate, that I am obliged to ask the favour of you, to direct a Post note to be Sent me for a Quarters Salary, as Soon after the fourth of September as possible. Mr Meredith at your Desire was So good as to Send me a Note for the last Quarter in good Season. We have the most tranquil Summer and most plentiful Season I ever knew.\nWith great and Sincere Esteem I am / your faithful and obliged\nJohn Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1789", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Fran\u00e7ois Adriaan Van der Kemp, 1 September 1796\nFrom: Van der Kemp, Fran\u00e7ois Adriaan\nTo: Adams, John\nSir!\nKemp-mik Oneida Lake 1 Sept. 1796.\nThough I was not fortunate enough to See Dr Belknap and Morse, as you Excellenc\u00ff kindly intended, there they went not so far to the western as the place of m\u00ff abode. the first of these Gentleman favour\u2019d me with an Letter, and included yours of Jan. 3th. How retired my way of living ma\u00ff be, to which I am obliged as wel as inclined, I Should have rejoiced\u2014at becoming acquainted with Such estimable characters, as your Excell: condescended to recommend to me.\nConsiderable events have taken place in Europe Since my last\u2014and I am ver\u00ff doubtful, if these shall not be Succeeded by others\u2014perhaps no less astonishing, than what had been blending the e\u00ffes of our modern dayl\u00ff Politicians. France made one bold Step\u2014but time alone will prove, it was a Step towards a gradual perfection\u2014or that She\u2014being entirely wearied\u2014changed alone her posture and outward appearance\u2014the Same Seeds of fermentation destroying Secretly the most noble vital parts. for the benefit of mankind we ma\u00ff wish that the first ma\u00ff be true, but, if we consult with past ages and the dominant national Character, then yet, with the warmest wishes for their prosperit\u00ff, we ma\u00ff doubt at the happ\u00ff issue of their Arduous Struggle. Perhaps Sir! I have alread\u00ff been too long removed of the Scene of action, to appreciate the real value of men and things\u2014and it will not be a deadly Sin in an inhabitant of the Western words\u2014if he is a Little more or less mistaken in his guessings about the Political evenements of the continent. But, Should it not be possible, that by his new constitution a School was opened for new divisions and that it was only intended by the few, to throw a veil over their true intention, and cover a plan\u2014not yet organised\u2014alone in embr\u00ffo?\nI know your Excell. wil rather excuse m\u00ff ravings in Politics, than if I could commit the Same blunders in morals, but I cannot yet discover the contradiction. Wh\u00ff different members of the Director\u00ff\u2014of different Sentiments\u2014principles and vices\u2014may not allure a considerable number among the Ancients and five hundred in their opinions and divide So the whole Communalty in a Duum- or Triumverate\u2014neither it Seems to me an absurdit\u00ff among a nation\u2014So warm\u2014So Sensible So electric\u2014that one of the Director\u00ff\u2014a man of Superior talents\u2014a Guise by example\u2014after having captivated the mob b\u00ff Some happ\u00ff or Splendid atchievements, favoured b\u00ff the circumstances of time, ma\u00ff get Such an ascendent in the council of the ancients\u2014orand 500\u2014or Self alone in the latter assembl\u00ff\u2014that this Bod\u00ff\u2014was\u2014with\u2014or against its will\u2014obliged by an intoxicated Populace to wrap a civic crown\u2014easy changed with a diadem\u2014around the head of this Dis-intrested Patriot\u2014The Victories of this nation, in the mean time Shall eternise her name in the Annals of Libert\u00ff, and the battle of Lodi will afford a fresh proof, that the Valours of the best-disciplend troops fals too Short by the undaunted intrepidity of her Votaries\u2014Your Excellenc\u00ff shall expect that I am not Silent with regard to the Dutch\u2014but what Shall I Sa\u00ff\u2014in knowing Scarce yet, where to Set m\u00ff foot; to look quietly around, to distinguish the objects and appreciate them\u2014If the Dutch People has preserved more of a National Character\u2014and Patriotism, than I believed in the years\u2014from 81-87\u2014If the\u00ff can become Superior to part\u00ff-prejudices\u2014and make a generous Sacrifice of the private Interests of provinces\u2014Cities in each of them\u2014of individuals\u2014If the majorit\u00ff\u2014as wel as the pars potior\u2014are united\u2014without any Controul from abroad\u2014if they are Sure, that France nevel will\u2014(Selvs not if b\u00ff this trifle\u2014They could obtain the utmost of her wishes\u2014betra\u00ff the Dutch to England and Prussia\u2014just as She betray\u2019d them in 87\u2014and if the Dutch then can agree to adopt a good constitution, and return to the good faith\u2014industr\u00ff\u2014and frugal life of their Ancestors, then the Descendents of the Vanquishers of Philip will be again by their virtues the astonishment of their contemporaries of Posterity\u2014But, Sir! there is yet So much wanting to compleat this collection of ifs\u2014that I am yet ver\u00ff anxious about the issue. It Seems to me, as of the Principal Leading men were of the Old Aristocratical faction\u2014they are, the best\u2014the ablest\u2014and most desinterested Some of the Democratical party of that time, equal to the former in abilities and dis-intrested views\u2014are again in the minorit\u00ff\u2014It is not to be feared again\u2014if the virtuous of both parties can not be reconciled together\u2014that both will be overpowered b\u00ff a , Lurking in the darkness\u2014and adsisted\u2014in the prop  b\u00ff the vicious\u2014profligate and unprincipled maj\u2014I hope, that I Soon ma\u00ff sited by your Excellency as a false Prophet\u2014though I never wish to return again in that once beloved Countr\u00ff\u2014though the most Scanty circumstances may be my Share\u2014trough the rest of my days\u2014in the lonely woods\u2014I am, and Shall remain a wel-wisher of the Dutch, and would rejoice, if they became a free, independent People, and formed them Selves a Constitution what ensured them peace and prosperit\u00ff\u2014\nFavour me with the continuance of your remembrance\u2014permit me, to recommend my whole family to your Excell. obliging attention, and allow me to remain with Sentiments of the highest consideration and esteem / Sir! / Your Excell: obliged and / most humble St.\nFr Adr vanderkemp", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1790", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 5 September 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Adams, John\nDear Sir,\nPhilada. Sept. 5. 1796\nI have just received your letter of the 29th. ulto. enquiring about your son Thos. B. Adams at the Hague. On the day of the date of your letter I recd. one from him dated the 28th. of May, from which be pleased to receive the following extract, containing all the information I can give in answer to your enquiries, excepting that the latest letter from your eldest son is dated the 22d. of June in which he says nothing of his brother; whence you may hope that he had recovered his health.\nExtract from T.B.A.\u2019s letter of May 28th. 96.\n\"For the interruption which has taken place in my correspondence since the commencement of March, I can only offer as an apology, the derangement in my health, occasioned by repeated attacks with disorders incident to this climate. The season, indeed, has been more than usually unhealthy and the multiciplicity of diseases through the Spring is attributed to the remarkable mildness of the winter.\"\nOn the same 29th. of August I recd the letter of June 22d. from your son J.Q.A. with others dated the 4th 11th & 16th of the same month. In that of June 4th. he says \"On the 28th. ulto. I left London, and came over in a small Prussian vessel to Rotterdam. On the 30th I arrived at this place.\" In the same letter he says, \"my brother has regularly supplied, as far as the state of his health has permitted, the information which in England I could not transmit, nor obtain, of the general progress of affairs in this country.\"\nI hope by the same conveyance which brought me these letters, you will have received some that may dispel all your apprehensions.\nYou will wonder that your son  J.Q.A. should have remained so long in London: His letter of June 22d accounts for it: he wanted money to enable him to leave London: the ten thousand dollars given here to Mr. Randolph on the 14th. of Augt. 1795, were destined to defray the expences of your son\u2019s mission to London. After his resignation, as soon as he returned from his journey to Rhode Island, I sent the chief Clerk to enquire what had been done with that money. He assured the Clerk that he had remitted every dollar; and that he would send him the letters which accompanied the remittance. The letters have not been sent to this office; nor has any banker or foreign correspondent ever advised me of the receipt of any part of the 10,000$ and your son\u2019s letter now convinces me that Mr. R. never made the remittance.\u2014On the 21st. of May Mr. Pinckney received from me a remittance of \u00a35000. sterling, out of which your son was supplied.\nAfter your eldest son\u2019s appointment for Purtugal, there was some difficulty in providing a successor at the Hague, & it was not  thought improper to leave the place vacant. It was also judged best that Colo. Humphreys should close the Algerine business before he should leave Portugal. Letters were therefore sent to both, informing of their new appointments, but desiring them to remain where they were for further advice. The Algerine business is unhappily yet in suspense; and no further advice has been transmitted to either in respect to their future proceeding. As soon as any thing shall be decided, I will do myself the pleasure to inform you. The intelligence with which the letters of your younger son have been written, show that the affairs of the U. States in the Netherlands might very well be committed to his direction: but I do not know what are the President\u2019s intentions on the subject.\nWith sincere respect /  I am dear Sir /  your obt. sert.\nT. Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1791", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Eliphalet Pearson, 7 September 1796\nFrom: Pearson, Eliphalet\nTo: Adams, John\nSir,\nCambridge 7 Sepr. 1796\nI am directed by the American Acady. of Arts & Sciences to return you their thanks for your late present of a vol. entitled, \"Outlines of the 15th. chapter of the proposed general report from the board of agriculture, on the subject of manures, by Robert Somerville\". With every sentiment of respect & gratitude, due to an eminently distinguished public benefactor, permit me to subscribe myself, / Sir, / Your most obliged, /  And very humble servant,\nEliphalet Pearson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1794", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Fran\u00e7ois Adriaan Van der Kemp, 10 October 1796\nFrom: Van der Kemp, Fran\u00e7ois Adriaan\nTo: Adams, John\nSir!\nKempwick 10 Oct. 1796.\nWashington\u2019s resignation, which crowns that excellent man with glory, opens the career for my worthy and much respected friend, to bestow new obligations upon his Country-men, if they are wise enough to take hold of this favourable opportunity. Can your Excell\u2014without compromitting  yourself procure your old friend a place among the Electors in this State\u2014you know upon to whom he Shall pa\u00ff the tribute, which every American owes to your meritorious Character.\nPermit me to assure you, that / I am / with the highest veneration / your Excell: most ob. St. / and obliged frend:\nFr. Adr. van der kemp", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1795", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Browne Cutting, 18 October 1796\nFrom: Cutting, John Browne\nTo: Adams, John\nDear Sir,\nBoston 18 Octr. 1796\nI regret that urgent business hinders me from making yourself and Mrs Adams a visit at Braintree prior to my return to Philadelphia. It was a pleasure I had reckond upon and the rather as my friend H.G. Otis had promised to accompany me in his carriage. As it is very possible I may be absent during the next Session of Congress in Philadelphia\u2014and considering you Sir, in the double capacity of an high officer of the United States and as an old and true Friend of mine; I take the liberty of inclosing a statement that I hope will at least satisfy you that I have behaved like an honourable and honest man\u2014in a transaction which has been much misunderstood and misrepresented. It is printed\u2014merely to save the expence of copying; for private perusal not for publication. May every blessing attend you and your Family!\nYour respectful & affectionate / Friend and Sert\nJohn B. Cutting", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1796", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Judith Sargent Stevens Murray, 1 November 1796\nFrom: Murray, Judith Sargent Stevens\nTo: Adams, John\nSir\nBoston Franklin Place November 1st 1796\nStimulated by the same ambitious views which first impelled me to become a Scribbler, I am solicitous to attain the highest emenance of that summit, which, with many an anxious effort, my unwearied footsteps have long sought to ascend\u2014Hence proceeds my application to that Luminary whose refulgent beams hath brightened with transcindent lustre; this younger world, and whose unborrowed rays can communicate a value too, and throw a light over, beings the most Opaque.\nYes sir, I would give celebrity to my essays, by your name, and I solicit your patronage, not only as a Subscriber to my proposals, but, penetrated with the highest idea of your character and your virtues, I earnestly request permission to dedicate the volumes which I contemplate to you! \u201cPresumptious woman! Upon what undue liberties doth thy unwarrentable pride precipitate thee!\" Once I should have subscribed to the propriety of this exclamation. Previous to my introduction to you, and the accomplished Lady, whose kindred mind seems so  fitly associated with yours, the idea of  my own inferiority, while anticipating the intended visit, covered my face with blushes, and I was ready to accuse my Companion of an unauthorized temerity, but we entered your hospitable mansion, you smiled benignantly upon us, and grateful admiration absorbed every lesser consideration \u2014Yes, timidity became prostrate, and I felt that I could confide in your benevolence; as much a I venerated those rare qualifications which will unquestionably convey your illustrious name, and services to the latest posterity.\nIf my intended publication obtains your sanction\u2014I shall have attained a high degree of elevation. My hopes will be new plumed, and, thus soothed, and flattered I shall spread the boldest pinions.\nI enclose you, Sir, my proposals\u2014If you return the paper with your signature, and accede to my wishes relative to the dedication\u2014you will confer a very important obligation\u2014but if the grant of either, or both of these petitions, is inconvenient for you, or inconsistent\u2014with your views, I however take the liberty to request, you will have the condescending goodness to favor me with an answer\u2014as all the pirturbation, consequent upon suspense, will be the Companion of my bosom untill I am honored by your determination.\nPermit me to offer to your amiable Lady my most respectful regards.\nI have, Sir, the honor to be, with all possible respect, esteem, and veneration /  your most obedient humble servant\nJ. Sargent Murray", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1797", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Josiah, III Quincy, 1 November 1796\nFrom: Quincy, Josiah, III\nTo: Adams, John\nSir\u2014\nBoston. 1st. Nov. 1796\u2014\nThe last time I had the honor of being at your house your lady intimated to me, it would be agreeable to you, to peruse the enclosed paper for a few subsequent weeks. I then promised her I would transmit mine, as it was of no use to me. But it escaped my memory until this moment. I now take the liberty to comply with her request. When you find me a subscriber to this paper, I hope you will not consider me, as a patron of its principles, or attribute it to any low search for popularity among its dirty sources. In Justice to myself you will allow me to say that very different, &, I trust, laudable motives, are my inducements; although I dare not presume so far upon your patience, particularly to mention them\u2014With very great respect / I am, Sir, your most obedt. / and humble Servt.\nJosiah Quincy", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1798", "content": "Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Lincoln, 7 November 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Lincoln, Benjamin\nDear sir\nQuincy Novr. 7. 1796\nI was in hopes to have troubled you no more in this Way: but am disappointed. If you can oblige me, I shall transmit the Sum to you, as soon as I get to Philadelphia.\nI am with Usual Esteem and / Love, yours\nJohn Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1799", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Fran\u00e7ois Adriaan Van der Kemp, 10 November 1796\nFrom: Van der Kemp, Fran\u00e7ois Adriaan\nTo: Adams, John\nSir!\nKempwick 10 Nov. 1796.\nI hasten to send your Excellenc\u00ff another letter from m\u00ff solitar\u00ff mansion. before the united American Electors have called you to occupy the chair of their President. It would have been a pleasant satisfaction if I could have contributed to it my part. it seems this must not so be, but you know my heart. Once\u2014in my life\u2014I begged of a man in place the favor, to be classed among the electors that I might deserve well once more of a countr\u00ff what I believed me obliged to defend with my pen, before I enjoy\u2019d her favours; and to encourage their negotiations for mone\u00ff\u2014but\u2014early spent perhaps in this\u2014plays her part; and knowing, that I could not be lost for John Adams\u2014or principally of a wel-moulded government Providence dictated perhaps to cast the die for another, who might be got over by such an allurement I shall be certainly satisfied to be left home, if there is made choice of an Elector, as warmly adicted to you\u2014to our Interests I mean, and more influential by his collegues.\nAmusing me Self\u2014these long evenings, of pervoleurig again the works of that Great Prussian King, whom\u2019s merits receive a new lustre from the vices of his base successor. I was struck, that he consider\u2019d the idea of a French Republic\u2014supposed as possible by the late Helvetius de Paradoxe et folie complette oeuvr.  xi\u2014p. 326\u2014and perhaps if he was this moment alive\u2014he would yet defend his Sentiment, and answer to the objected established constitution waxt.\u2014till the last act of this tragical farce is concluded. Or think you, that his politics would have changed so fast as Condorcet\u2019s? I can not help of transcribing few lines from one of his letter to the Prussian King of 11 Ma\u00ff 1785 \u201cle bonheur des Peuples depend plus des lumieres de ceux qui les gouvernent, que de la forme de constitutions Politiques, et que plus ses formes sont compliqu\u00e9es, plus elles approchent de la Democratie, moins elles conviennent aux nations ou le commun des Citoyens manque d\u2019instruction, ou de temps, pour s\u2019occuper des affaires Publiques\u2014. qu\u2019enfin il y\u2019a plus d\u2019esperance dans une Monarchie que dans une R\u00e9publique, de voir la destruction des abus s\u2019operer avec prompitude et d\u2019une maniere tranquille (oeuvr. xii. 324) Should Condorcet, Roche\u2013foucauld and man\u00ff yet this moment have believed that one Assembl\u00ff would afford the safest opportunity of restoring Royalty as a unb\u2013limited Monarch\u00ff?\nI did see no European accounts since Jordan\u2019s repeal before Prince Charles\u2014but my opinion with regard French Politicks and the stability of their actual form of Government is not yet shaked no more\u2014than my hopes encrease for the permanent deliverance of the batavians from the yoke of their late Stadholder\u2014to their Resident I appl\u00ff, what Willem Burgand\u00ff, alias, Prince of Orange answer\u2019d Count Salm\u2014asking the Stadhoulder how his Alma viva\u2014(the Count came with this kind of surtout for the first time on the Parade) did please his Highness. Il vous sied parfaitement bien\u2014il se trame a tout vent.\nI was not\u2014to return to the wel\u2013fighting French armies, surprised at all at Jordan\u2019s check, and expect more severe blows from that Quarter in proportion the French armies leave the plains, and penetrate in the mountains and woods of Moravia and Bohemia\u2014full of defiles, where the Austrians\u2014by their superior knowledge of the local situation shall prepossess them of the best entrenched camps\u2014and crush the Separated bodies\u2014if I am not mistaken, uncertain if you have King Fred\u2019s works\u2014I shall\u2014there all what respects America\u2014merits your notice\u2014how triffling it may be\u2014and few triffles escaped Fred\u2019ks pen. transcribe few lines more from them.\nIn a letter to Alembert 17 March 1777. he says\u2014 si les Anglois, animes des fureurs du Dieu Mars, ont la fievre chaude, il n\u2019y a pas d\u2019apparence que L\u2019epidemie franchisse les mers, pour se communiquer au Continent; Leur guinees l\u2019ont fait passer a quelques Principi di Germania besognosi di scudi. Sans doute cela s\u2019arretera la, et la guerre de L\u2019Amerique sera pour les Europ\u00e9ens  ce qu\u2019etoient pour les Anciens Romains les Combats des Gladiateurs (oeuvr. xii p. 25.)In a letter to Volatire 18 Juin 1776\u2014which ought to have been placed first \u201cVous me faites trop d\u2019honneur (parlant de Landgrave de Hesse) de m\u2019attribuer son education: S\u2019il etoit sorti de mon ecole, il ne se feroit pas fait Catholique, et n\u2019auroit pas vendu ses sujets aux Anglois, comme on vend du betail, pour les faire egorger\u2014La passion d\u2019un interet sordide est L\u2019unique cause de cette demarche. Je plains ces pauvres Hessois, qui termineront aussi malheureusement, qu\u2019inutilement leur carriere en amerique (oeuv. xiii. 391) sur ce que D\u2019alembert demandoit ce que S.M. pensoit de la Conduite Politique et militiare des Anglois, et de manoeuvres de Washington\u201d oeuv. xii. 83\nthe king answer\u2019d him 13 aug. 1777. \u201cqu\u2019ils ont pech\u00e9 contre la bonne foi en ne tenant pas leur Colonies Le Pacte, tel qu\u2019ils l\u2019avoient fait avec elles; en declarant mal adroitement, et contre les regles de la prudence, la guerre a un des leur membres, dont il ne pourroit resulter que de mal pour eux; parce qu\u2019ils ont ignor\u00e9 stupidement la force de ces Colonies, et se sont imagin\u00e9s, que le General Gage les pourroit soumettre avec 5 ou 6000 hommes, qu\u2019il commandoit; qu\u2019ils ont pris des troupes a leur solde, sans avoir song\u00e9 aux vaisseaux, qui devoient les transporter en Amerique; qu\u2019ils ont achet\u00e9 sur le march\u00e9 de Londres les provisions et vivres pour cette armee, qui devoit combattre en Pensylvanie, enfin il n\u2019y a que des fautes a reprocher a ces Insulaires. Pourquoi ont ils separ\u00e9 a la distance de trois cent mille le corps, que Carleton commandoit, et celui a la tete duquel est maintenant Bourgo\u00ffne? comment ces corps pouvoient ils dans cet eloignement se porter des secours mutuels, falloit il encore dans une telle situation se brouiller, de gaiete du coeur avec les Russes, indisposer les Hollandois par leur insolente arrogance, et multiplier le nombre de leur ennemis par leur mauvaise conduite? au reste, je commence de vous delcarer, que les voiles epais, qui cachent L\u2019avenir, les derobent si bien a mes yeux qu\u2019a ceux des autres; mais si je voulois, a L\u2019exemple de Ciceron, prevoir ce que certaines circonstances semblent annoncer, je pourrois peut-etre hasarder de dire, qu\u2019il paroit que les Colonies se rendront independantes, parce que cette campagne ne les ecrasera pas, que le Gouvernement des Gott\u2013dams aura de la peine a fouiller dans les bourses des Particuliers pour fournir a la campagne prochaine, qu\u2019entre ceci et le printemps prochain la guerre sera declar\u00e9 entre La France et L\u2019angleterre\u2014Voil\u00e0 des reves &.\u2014he answers not a word with respect to Washington\u2014Il (5 oct. 1777) faudroit en faire prendre au Parlement D\u2019angleterre (il parle d\u2019un remede contre les morsures d\u2019un chien enrag\u00e9, car il semble que quelque chien enrag\u00e9 la mordu. Ces gens se conduisent comme des insenses\u2014vous aurez surement la guerre avec les Gott\u2013dams. Ces colonies viendront independantes. xii. 94/95Pardon me, if I abuse of your time: It is the ensemble, what is found in Fred: works concerning America, can it be, procure me the perusal of Davila\u2019s discourses, and Danima\u2019s Revolutions of Greece and Italy. translated\u2014of original\u2014I shall return them with thanks.Allow me one question more\u2014Is there not an incongruity in the Signatures of the acts of Congres\u2014by the Vice\u2013President and President of the Senate? It is a double titulature\u2014both Significant\u2014but the last, as it seems, the only proper\u2014in the Legislative relation\u2014the forst the title of denomination by Excellence, of the second magistrate of the union\u2014favor me with the continuance of your remembrance\u2014then I am with the highest consideration / your Excellency\u2019s devoted Srt. \nV. D. Kemp", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1800", "content": "Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Thompson, 11 November 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Thompson, Benjamin\nSir\nQuincy near Boston November. 11th. 1796\u2014\nI have received the Letter you did me the Honour to write me from London, the twelfth of July, from the Hand of our mutual Friend, Dr. Walter with a Volume of your Essays, which I have read with great Pleasure. They are the Result of no less fertility of genious than benevolence of Heart.\nI have also received the Volume which you desired might be presented to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, With the Profile of the Author and the Letter in which you request the Academy to accept of Five Thousand Dollars in three Per Cent Stock to be supplied to particular Purposes.\nAll these I laid before the Academy on Wednesday of this Week; They were received with great sensibility for the favor and their Secretary Mr. Pearson was directed to transmit you their Resolution expressing their Thanks, As no Stock was enclosed in those Letters and Paketts it was Suposed that your waited to hear from the Academy, before you transmitted it and the Secretary will Send you an Account of the Mode of transfering Stock which it was Supposed might not have come to your knowledge.\u2014\nI beg you to accept of my Thanks for the elegant Present of a Volume of your Essays to me; and to add my gratitude to that of the Accademy for your generous Proposal of a Donation to that Corperation.\nI wish you every Success in your Career of doing good to Mankind and have the Honour to be with great Esteem for your Character your Countryman and most humble Servant\u2014\nJohn Adams\u2014", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1801", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Samuel Allyne Otis, 16 November 1796\nFrom: Otis, Samuel Allyne\nTo: Adams, John\nSir\nPhilada Novr 16th 1796\nAfter our agreeable journey we arrived here in the midst of Election, and by lies, abuse & bribery the disorganizers will carry their tickets thro the State. This I supposed with the efforts of Massachusetts Jacobins would have given Jefferson the vote\u2014But old Samuels defeat which I think but a prelude to his overthrow, has revived my hopes. The No of Votes 138, 70 makes a Majority\u2014\nI count on N H.6  up51Mass16  N. Jersey 7Vermont4  Delaware 3R Island4  Virginia3  some say 5Connet9  S Carolina4N Y12Kentucky151N Carolina  2Maryland5  some say 676This gives 6 votes to spare, and which tis not supposeable Jefferson can obtain. I presume further that these 76 contain 7/8ths the honesty & property, and 4/5ths of the good sense of the Nation\u2014\nBen Beach informs us that the functions of the French Minister cease from this time. This altho Beach says it may be true. Perhaps tis only a prelude to a new appointment, or an attempt to bully us into a quarrell, or preparatory to hostilities. Every thing has been done by our patriots to embroil us with France, and they can by no means be charged with remissness if they do not succeed. I hope & pray however for the peace of our Jerusalem\u2014\nThe President US is in Town with Mrs Washington. They made kind enquiries after you and Mrs Adams, & appear to contemplate retirement with pleasure. After such a scene of anxiety & labour and at their time of life I dont wonder at it.\nyour friends hope you will be here early in the Session as it will inevitably be a short one\u2014The town is quite healthy, altho the weather is mild, & the drought sharp beyond any thing known at any season of the year.\nMrs. Otis & Miss Harriet join in respects to yourself & lady.\nI have the honor to be / Sir / Your most obedent / humble Sert \nSam A. Otis", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1803", "content": "Title: From John Adams to John Trumbull, 25 November 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Trumbull, John\nFryday Evening. Nov. 25, 1796\nMr John Adams asks the favour of Mr Trumbulls Company for an hour this Evening at Mr David Bulls. Mr A. would not ask Such a favour on such a Snowy night, but would wait on Mr Trumbull at his house, if he was not much chilled with the cold and much fatigud with a Journey all day", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1804", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 25 November 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, John\nMy Dear Sir.\nThe Hague November 25. 1796.\nI received yesterday your favour of August 7. The first time I have had the pleasure of a letter from you since the same date. I have also to acknowledge an unusual interval since my last to you was written. I shall not plead in excuse that a very considerable American correspondence, which I find myself obliged to furnish altogether on my part, with few returns of any kind, and those few containing little more than acknowledgments of my letters having been received, becomes gradually more burthensome, and that I postpone insensibly from day to day the writing of those which can admit of postponement. However justly I might make this apology, I am sensible it would not be sufficient. Continual attention to many inattentive correspondents is possible;  it is therefore a duty; and of all my inofficial correspondents it is most inexcusable that I should have occasion for an apology to you. I shall endeavour to avoid the same fault in future.\nThe observations which you have suggested in a concern particularly personal and domestic to myself, are received with gratitude, and will be remembered with perseverance. I hope you will always have reason to be convinced that the accounts in my family will be correct, and my resolutions decisive. It is not yet ascertained whether I must wait, untill my own return to America, to make my final family arrangements, though I shall freely confess that if so, it will be much against my own inclination and intentions.\nThe inconveniences of a foreign mission, which have been mentioned in several of your late Letters, are certainly great. I was not insensible of them when I left my Country. There is another greater than all the rest of which I am equally sensible. It is that of losing the prospects of a profession, and of being displaced from one\u2019s proper station in Society. A premature elevation renders a subsequent descent inevitable. All my prospects in America, are that I shall have the advantage of reflecting upon what I have been.\u2014There is however one article of my Philosophy which I do not apprehend will soon abandon me. It is an indifference to the pursuits of Ambition and Fame, which even your solicitude for me does not altogether remove. I sought not the station which I now hold. I sought not my late errand to England, nor the new appointment to Portugal with which I have been honoured.\u2014Did I ever even wish for them?\u2014not for the English business I think you will readily believe\u2014No\u2014nor for either of the others\u2014When this service shall be sufficiently discharged, I can retire perfectly contented to my books and to silent obscurity; but to the tedious drudgery of the bar, to an Office without Clients; or to invidious labour, and its wretched pittance of retribution, while my juniors during my absence will have not only gained upon me all my advancement, but left me far behind them, to tug again at the Oar, while they enjoy the favours of the gale and stream at once; I will not pretend that I shall readily acquiesce in such a course as that. The first and most strenuous of my endeavours will be to preserve my independence entire. Rather than surrender or impair that I shall submit to any thing, not dishonest or dishonourable: but that preserved, I shall indulge my own inclinations, and adopt a mode of life which will allow me leisure for my favourite pursuits, and literary studies.\u2014Such is at present my hope. If I can return to leisure, I am determined that it shall not be to idleness. But the Americans have in Europe a sad reputation on the article of literature, and I shall purpose to render a service to my Country by devoting to it, the remainder of my life.\nIn one of your late Letters, you enquire whether in my peregrinations I can find nothing for the University at Cambridge or for the Academy. I do not mean to be forgetful of either, especially the former to which I am personally indebted for much valuable instruction.\u2014Perhaps I might have been more in haste to offer a tribute of my regard and veneration to these Institutions but for a profound aversion in my mind against ambitious donations, and begging Presents. If you will answer for it, that in case I should find something for those Institutions, they will not consider it as a solicitation of their favours, and that they will not confer them upon me, I shall be the more ready to indulge my inclination of shewing the respect for them which I really feel.\u2014You will perhaps think there is too much of pride in the composition of these scruples, but having before me your example of literary honours acquired not by the little artifices of courting notice, but by strong and substantial merits commanding it, I am more disposed to follow that example than depart from it for the sake of an academical degree or fellowship.\nBefore this Letter reaches you the elections for President and Vice-President will be completed, and it will doubtless decide as to your continuance in the Public Service. The President\u2019s address to the People of the United States, of September 17, arrived here some time since; I imagine it will be translated and published in the Papers of the Country. There are perhaps some characters here who do not perfectly relish it: the observations upon the absurdity of having any favourite foreign Nation are applicable to other Countries, as well as to the United States. Their justice is pointedly felt here, and several persons have mentioned to me the address in terms of the highest satisfaction.\u2014But the foreign Nation here is something more than a favourite, and it requires a degree of courage by no means to universal even to profess any sentiments of Independence.\u2014Upon which subject you may judge from the following anecdote. Some days before the Constitution now before the National Assembly was reported by the Committee, I was witness to a Conversation which took place concerning it, between the french Minister Plenipotentiary whose name is No\u00ebl, and several Members of the Assembly and of the Diplomatic Committee; all declared themselves very anxious and curious to know what it would be. No\u00ebl at length said he had heard that it would not establish the principle of Unity, and indivisibility. That there would only be nine departments instead of nine Provinces. That in his opinion that would be a great and pernicious departure from the example which France had shewn them, in totally dissolving every principle of federalism; and for his part that he could not approve such an heterogeneous system. He was proceeding to give me further tokens of his dissatisfaction in the same tone, when a Member of the Assembly and Committee, one of the most noted and influential Men in the present Government, interrupts him with a smile. \u201c\u201dDiable! comme vous y all\u00e9z!\u201d\u2014No\u00ebl then checking himself says, \u201cau reste,\u201d what I say is only the opinion of the Citizen No\u00ebl, as to the Minister, to be sure he will find everything that you choose to do, excellent.\u2014Remember it was only the Citizen No\u00ebl that was speaking and not the Minister.\u2014\u201cSans doute\u201d\u2014replied the honest Dutchman \u201cautrement vous sentez bien que je me tairois.\u201d\u2014The subject of conversation was then changed.\u2014But afterwards, since the Constitution has been reported, the member who so candidly confessed that the voice of the french minister would silence him of course, found his tongue to declare that the Constitution is fundamentally bad, not fit even to be made a subject of deliberation, a monster, a federalism, just so far contrary to the rights of men and citizens as it varies from the glorious precedent of France.\nThe Constitution is not yet published, nor have the Assembly determined as yet whether they will debate it at all. This decision is to be made to morrow. I will write you more about it in the course of a few days. At present I can only say that it abandons in a great measure but without sacrificing entirely the federal principle. The Legislature is to be in two branches. The Executive in a council of State consisting of seven members. The council of State, to have a qualified negative upon the laws, adopted from our Constitution. In my next I shall also enter more largely upon the political state of European affairs in general. The campaign must soon close, and leave the parties nearly where they were when it began. There will be during the Winter much Negotiation, from which the only ground I have to think it possible that a general pacification will ensue, is that every body says it will not.\nI remain your dutiful and affectionate Son\nJohn Q. Adams.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1805", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Jeremy Belknap, 1 December 1796\nFrom: Belknap, Jeremy\nTo: Adams, John\nMy dear Sir\nBoston Decr 1 1796\nI beg your acceptance of one of these volumes & that you would give the other to the President with the most respectful Compliments of the author\nYr most obedt Servt\nJeremy Belknap", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1806", "content": "Title: From John Adams to Fran\u00e7ois Adriaan Van der Kemp, 6 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Van der Kemp, Fran\u00e7ois Adriaan\nSir\n6 December 1796\nI have recd your favour of the 10. of Nov. and thank you for the quotations from the Posthumous Works of the late K. of Prussia. The Quotations from Condorcet are Proofs of Insincerity or Inconsistency but the latter may be easily expected from a Person who writes upon a subject he knows nothing of.\nI am able unfortunately to give you some Extracts of letters concerning a Man of more Sense, more Learning better principles and more benevolent dispositions than Condorcet who is now under Difficulties I fear, I mean your Friend Luzac. My Son John Quincy Adams writes to this Mother \"our Friend Luzac, who I am Sorry to Say is no longer Professor Luzac, is publishing a Collection consisting of the orations which he delivered on entering upon the functions of his Professorship, and on the Expiration of his Administration as Rector magnificus, or Principal of the University of Leyden together with some various and Scientific Dissertations. He had dedicated the whole to my Father in an elegant Latin Epistle which is to appear at the head of the Work.\"\nMy Son Thomas Boylston Adams writes me \"At the time the National Assembly commenced its career, Several new periodical publications appeared. Two of them were a printed in the French Language, and the Prospectus of each promised that the future Numbers Should furnish regular details of the Proceedings in the national Council, and even proclaimed themselves as the occasional vehicles of political disquisitions, adapted to the temper of the times. Energetic appeals to Patriotism for Patronage, which almost every number contained, Soon discovered Symptoms of abortion, and Shortly after, the undertakers of these Publications were obliged to declare, in the bitterness and Pangs of their labour that Such was the dearth of public spirit, it would not pay even the expences of the midwife. For your Amusement I send you the first and last words of one of those papers; it commenced under the Auspices of the French Minister here and lived nearly Seven weeks; another which bore the Title of \u2019Monteur Batave\u2019 Survived but a Short time longer and it is remarkable that both, just before their death, Snarled horrible at poor Luzac, because his Paper still went on in the old style. This is a Slight Specimin of the public apathy and Indifference about political Discussions. An anecdote which proves Something more is the Dismission of Mr J. Luzac from his Professorship in the university and with a Prohibition Subjoined against his Superintendance of the Leyden Gazette\u201dApril 19. 1797Sir I had written the above to you: but was interrupted and have left the letter I was copying. I have within a few days received your favour of the 4 of March, and I thank you for your kind Congratulations", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1807", "content": "Title: From John Adams to George Washington, 12 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, John,United States Senate\nTo: Washington, George\n12 December 1796\nWe thank you, sir, for your faithful and detailed exposure of the existing situation of our country; and we sincerely join in sentiments of gratitude to an overruling Providence for the distinguished share of public prosperity and private happiness which the People of the United States so peculiarly enjoy.\nWe are fully sensible of the advantages that have resulted from the adoption of measures (which you have successfully carried into effect) to preserve peace, cultivate friendship, and promote civilization, amongst the Indian tribes on the western frontiers: feelings of humanity, and the most solid political interests, equally encourage the continuance of this system.\nWe observe, with pleasure, that the delivery of the military posts, lately occupied by the British forces, within the territory of the United States, was made with cordiality and promptitude, as soon as circumstances would admit; and that the other provisions our treaties with Great Britain and Spain, that were objects of eventual arrangement, are about being carried into effect, with entire harmony and good faith.\nThe unfortunate but unavoidable difficulties that opposed a timely compliance with the terms of the Algerine treaty, are much to be lamented; as they may occasion a temporary suspension of the advantages to be derived from a solid peace with that Power, and a perfect security from its predatory warfare; at the same time, the lively impressions that affected the public mind on the redemption of our captive fellow-citizens, afford the most laudable incentive to our exertions to remove the remaining obstacles.\nWe perfectly coincide with you in opinion, that the importance of our commerce demands a naval force for its protection against foreign insult and depredation, and our solicitude to attain that object will be always proportionate to its magnitude.\nThe necessity of accelerating the establishment of certain useful manufactures, by the intervention of legislative aid and protection, and the encouragement due to agriculture by the creation of Boards, (composed of intelligent individuals) to patronize this primary pursuit of society, are subjects which will readily engage our most serious attention.\nA national university may be converted to the most useful purposes: the science of legislation being so essentially dependent on the endowments of the mind, the public interests must receive effectual aid from the general diffusion of knowledge; and the United States will assume a more dignified station among the nations of the earth, by the successful cultivation of the higher branches of literature.\nA military academy may be likewise rendered equally important. To aid and direct the physical force of the nation, by cherishing a military spirit, enforcing a proper sense of discipline, and inculcating a scientific system of tactics, is consonant to the soundest maxims of public policy. Connected with, and supported by, such an establishment, a well regulated militia, constituting the natural defence of the country, would prove the most effectual, as well as economical, preservative of peace.\nWe cannot but consider, with serious apprehensions, the inadequate compensations of the public officers, especially of those in the more important stations. It is not only a violation of the spirit of a public contract, but is an evil so extensive in its operation, and so destructive in its consequences, that we trust it will receive the most pointed legislative attention.\nWe sincerely lament, that, whilst the conduct of the United States has been uniformly impressed with the character of equity, moderation, and love of peace, in the maintenance of all their foreign relationships, our trade should be so harassed by the cruisers and agents of the republic of France, throughout the extensive departments of the West Indies.\nWhilst we are confident that no cause of complaint exists that could authorize an interruption of our tranquillity, or disengage that republic from the bonds of amity, cemented by the faith of treaties, we cannot but express our deepest regrets that official communications have been made to you, indicating a more serious disturbance of our commerce. Although we cherish the expectation that a sense of justice, and a consideration of our mutual interest, will moderate their councils, we are not unmindful of the situation in which events may place us, nor unprepared to adopt that system of conduct, which, compatible with the dignity of a respectable nation, necessity may compel us to pursue.\nWe cordially acquiesce in the reflection, that the United States, under the operation of the Federal Government, have experienced a most rapid aggrandizement and prosperity, as well political as commercial.\nWhilst contemplating the causes that produce this auspicious result, we must acknowledge the excellence of the constitutional system, and the wisdom of the legislative provisions; but we should be deficient in gratitude and justice, did we not attribute a great portion of these advantages to the virtue, firmness, and talents, of your administration; which have been conspicuously displayed in the most trying times, and on the most critical occasions. It is, therefore, with the sincerest regret that we now receive an official notification of your intentions to retire from the public employments of your country.\nWhen we review the various scenes of your public life, so long and so successfully devoted to the most arduous services, civil and military, as well during the struggles of the American Revolution, as the convulsive periods of a recent date, we cannot look forward to your retirement without our warmest affections and most anxious regards accompanying you, and without mingling with our fellow-citizens at large in the sincerest wishes for your personal happiness that sensibility and attachment can express.\nThe most effectual consolation that can offer for the loss we are about to sustain, arises from the animating reflection that the influence of your example will extend to your successors, and the United States thus continue to enjoy an able, upright, and energetic administration. \nJohn Adams,Vice President of the United States and President of the Senate.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1810", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 17 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, John\nMy Dear Sir\nThe Hague December 17. 1796.\nIn my last Letter I purposed giving you an account of the measures which have been taken upon the Constitution produced after seven months labour by the Committee appointed to draw it up. But after mentioning the frowns which had been cast upon it while yet in embryo, by the citizen No\u00ebl, it would be perhaps superfluous now to relate how soon after its birth it has been overlaid.\u2014The principal object for which the National Assembly was called, was professedly to make a constitution to be presented to the People. A Committee of 21 members therefore was selected from the whole body, a few days after they first met, who from that time until the 10th: of November have been solely, and exclusively occupied upon that work, and have never attended the ordinary deliberations of the Assembly. But at the moment when  of the Committee was made, and before it was read, one of the members made his protest against it, and declared his determination to oppose it in every stage, because it was not founded upon a Principle of unlimited Unity and Indivisibility. It would have been doubtless at once rejected, but for a provision in the Constitution of the Assembly, which directed that if they should reject the plan which should be proposed by the Committee of 21, the same Committee, together with ten more members should draw up another plan, and that both should be presented to the People for their consideration. To defeat the provision of this Article, the Assembly first voted that they accepted the reported plan as the ground-work of their debates, but immediately after decreed that they would debate nothing but what should be founded upon the Indivisibility of the whole Republic, and appointed two new Committees, the one to consolidate the finances and debts of the several Provinces, and the other to make alterations in the Constitution reported conformable to the degree of Indivisibility, authorizing them if they should think proper, to throw aside altogether the plan before them and draw up another entirely different from it. The Committee of 21. therefore has been the mountain to bring forth a mouse. Their work is already treated with every sort of contempt, and the expectations of the public are all renewed to see what the next Committee will report.\u2014I have sent to the Secretary of State a couple of copies of the plan which made such a luckless entry into the world, but as it has been in fact so speedily dismissed from it, I have not thought it worth while to send or make a translation of it.\nAs to the public news current in Europe, the transactions on the field as they are detailed by the contending parties, fill all the columns of every Newspaper you see, and I have found by my experience for two years, that my letters cannot reach you in Season to give early intelligence. The campaign upon the Rhine will doubtless very soon close; two french armies of seventy, or eighty thousand men penetrated very deep into Germany in the course of the Summer, but they have been driven back to the point from which they started and one of them has been in a great measure destroyed by the operation. I have heretofore informed you that the project contemplated by the french was the junction of the three armies, to march in concert towards Vienna; there was a period at which it appeared probable this Quixotic plan would be realized, but it has eventually been totally defeated, and with such heavy losses on the part of the french, that of their own accord they have sent an Ambassador to Vienna, to negotiate a separate Peace with the Emperor, while at the same time Lord Malmesbury has been sent to treat for a general Peace with them.\u2014Their great object is to make a separate Peace with each of their adversaries and as they hope to remain with Britain alone in the end, they think it will be possible for them then to give her such a deadly blow, as will reduce her to a situation as deplorable as their own.\nThey keep all their negotiations secret except that with Britain, but from the time of Lord Malmesbury\u2019s arrival at Paris they have immediately published all the official Papers that have past between him and the Minister for foreign affairs De la Croix. The first Notes of the Letter were so insulting, that an universal opinion every where prevailed that they were determined at all Events to break up the negotiation. However the late papers have grown more moderate, although the same object is yet pursued. The public opinion was so strongly pronounced condemning their mode of proceeding that they have found it necessary to change it. They have now formally acceded to the principle for the Negotiation proposed by the British Government, and the specific offers will soon make their appearance unless they should conclude to treat seriously; in which case, I presume they will immediately retire from that publicity which they have affected to give  to this negotiation, while they conduct with all possible secrecy all the others of a similar kind.\nIt does not appear probable that they have any thing to offer to the Emperor, which can compensate him at once for the cession of the Netherlands, and for the abandonment of his alliance with G. Britain. They have indeed placed much dependence upon their Italian conquests, and are making a Shew in terrorem, of establishing a cispadane and a transpadane Republic, in Lombardy and in the papal Territories. If Mantua should fall into their hands, which at present appears probable and which has indeed already been prematurely announced, they will have a firm footing in Italy, where their possession hitherto has been precarious and where they have maintained themselves by immense sacrifices of Men. In this case the Emperor may be more readily inclined to accept advantageousz terms of Peace, which they will offer him, and leave Britain to fight the remainder of her battles herself.\nThe Portuguese Minister who had been here from the time of my arrival, is likewise now at Paris endeavouring to negotiate a Peace with for his Government. He has been gone from hence about two months. He meets with similar difficulties to those of the English negotiator, and the Directory still insist upon the exclusion of the British from the ports of Portugal. This has been peremptorily refused, and it is therefore most probable that Portugal, will not succeed in obtaining a Peace, unless in conjunction with G. Britain. They are at present threatened with an invasion by Spain, for having furnished to that power at the commencement of the War, the auxiliary troops which had been stipulated by Treaty.\nGreat dependence had been placed both in France and here upon a scarcity of money, and commercial distress which existed during some time in the Summer and Autumn in England. An order of the British Council, authorized the payment of interests from their funds, in this Country in the Netherlands and in Italy. It authorized also a free exportation from England to the same Countries in neutral vessels.\u2014Such importations were immediately prohibited here, with such an appearance of exultation that you would have imagined it was the final blow, they were giving to the british commercial power and opulence. The same prohibition was with equal pomposity decreed by the french Legislature.\u2014But food and cloathing is not supplied by a prohibition, the trade which existed even before the British order of Council authorized it has been continued in spite of all the trammels of the french and Batavian Assemblies; and indeed the former have in effect repealed their prohibition by postponing for several months the date at which it is to commence, and the latter have formally repealed theirs so far as to admit all West-India produce. The rest must be introduced by connivance or contraband.\nThere are many People here anxious to know the Event of the Presidential elections, in America, and who either feel or affect an alarm least under a change of administration the United States will become involved in a War with G. Britain. They tremble for the price of their American Stocks. I have taken all the pains I could to maintain and spread the opinion, that however the elections may turn, there is not the least danger that the United States will deviate from their neutral system of policy, or engage in War with any European Power whatever.\u2014I firmly believe this to be the fact, and  the prevalence of the opinion here is essential to the credit of our funds.\nI am with duty and affection, your Son\nJohn Q. Adams.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1811", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 19 December 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Adams, John\nSir\nDepartment of State, Decr. 19th. 1796.\nBy the direction of the President of the United States, I have the honor to inclose a report of the Director of the Mint, suggesting the expediency of some alterations in its establishment, to render it less expensive to the public, and more accommodating to depositors. The report is accompanied with statements of the gold, silver, and copper coins issued from the mint from its commencement to the 24th. of the last month; accounts of the gold and silver bullion which has been deposited; and an account of wastage and a deficit in the silver coinage, which requires an appropriation of two thousand eight hundred and twenty dollars and seventy one cents, to reimburse depositors.\nI am, with great respect, / Sir, / your most obedt. Servant\nTimothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1813", "content": "Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 24 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Adams, John\nNo 27.My Dear Sir.\nThe Hague December 24. 1796.\nThe french Directory have refused to receive Mr: Pinckney as Minister from the United States, and have taken a resolution, that all communication between them and the American Government shall be suspended untill the wrongs of which the French Republic has a right to complain, shall be repaired. The motives alledged for this proceeding are said to be that the Treaty between the United States and Great\u2013Britain, annuls that with France, and that as they have recalled their Minister from the United States, they do not judge it advisable to receive one from thence. Their personal regard for Mr: Monroe seems to have effected hitherto an exception in his favour.\nAfter the recall of Mr. Adet, and the various other circumstances which have occurred in the course of the last Summer, this circumstance is not surprizing. The real motives upon which it is founded, and the designs which it is meant to answer, are well understood by you. Among of many others the advantage of an alternative either to influence the Elections for the next Presidency, or to furnish a material embarassment to the new Administration, is perhaps not the least weighty. If at the time when this Letter shall reach you, the public affairs of the United States should be of any concern to you, besides that of an individual citizen, you will evidently perceive that a concert, which might be termed an alliance has taken place between the present french Government, and the most virulent internal enemies to that of the United States: to defeat the object of this connection which is no less than a Revolution in the Constitution of our Nation, and an abandonment of our engagements with another power, will require all the wisdom and firmness of which our federal executive is susceptible, as well as the support of the People. Of the former I have no doubt, and uniform experience has given me a confidence in the latter, which I hope will not be disappointed.\nThe newspapers which I send you with this letter will shew  what a representation of the internal state of France, the Directory themselves have presented to the Legislative Assemblies. The wretchedness of the Nation may possibly be exaggerated in this paper, because its apparent object is to elicit from the Legislature some new expedient to raise money for the further support of the War. But with every allowance for such exaggerations, it is certain that the situation of that Country is deplorable in the highest degree, and the People in every part of it pant for Peace. The weariness of the War has also reached their armies which have suffered excessively in the course of the last campaign, and which they find it at present extremely difficult to support.\nThe french Minister of Finance has called together a commercial deputation from several of the Cities to devise the means of reviving their commerce, or more probably of raising new funds. He has proposed to them the establishment of a Bank, to be made altogether independent of the Government, and a third paper money bottomed upon the confiscated property, and to be denominated cedules hypothecaires. Neither of these proposals was received with much favour and the assembly have expressed as their decided opinion, that a speedy and honourable Peace, must be the necessary preliminary to any practicable attempt whatever for the restoration of the commerce and finances of the Nation.\nMeanwhile, the Negotiation of Lord Malmesbury still continues. The tone of the first official papers from the Minister De la Croix spread an opinion almost universal that the Directory were determined to break it off. But at the same time an universal cry arose against them, and sounded so loudly in their ears, that they have evidently softened and moderated their language. It is said also that they have consented to conduct the negotiation in future with the same secrecy which they have observed in their diplomatic dealings with the other coalesced powers. These things are all considered as indications that a serious attempt for Peace will be made, and the publicity which they have purposely given to their Statement of the distressing condition of the Nation contributes to strengthen the opinion.\nThe Empress of Russia died suddenly on the 17th: of November: of an apoplectic stroke, as it is pretended.\u2014Suspicion however is not silent on this occasion. The french consider it as an Event very favourable to them. She was to have signed on the 19th: a new Treaty with Great Britain. Whether it was signed by her successor is variously reported.\u2014He certainly made no change in the administration of the Russian foreign Department.\nI have mentioned that one of the motives of the french Directory in their late proceeding is to influence the American Election, or to embarrass the new Administration. There is an opinion propagated with great zeal and industry in every part of the Europe, that the Union and Prosperity of the United States are dependent altogether upon the personal character, merits and popularity of the present President, and that the moment he shall retire from the government we shall fall into irreconcileable dissensions which will soon be followed by a separation of the Northern from the Southern States. In England and France, perhaps among some people in this Country, these ideas are not simple opinions; they have ripened into hopes. For whatever affections our Countrymen may indulge in their hearts for this or that European Nation, they may assure themselves that they are to all objects of fear and envy. The prosperity of the American People has become a reproach to the rulers of Europe whether monarchical or Republican, and prosperity generates envy among Nations no less than among individuals. A paragraph has appeared  in one of the late English news-papers purporting to be founded on a letter from New\u2013York written in October and announcing that troubles and confusions were expected to take place upon the approaching Election for President. That the solitary advice of the present President\u2019s address to the People did not appear to have made any impression upon them: that in every State there was some particular favourite, but no Union, no public Spirit, and that the division of the States would be the probable consequence of these symptoms. This account has been repeated in one of the Gazette\u2019s here and coming just at the same time with the hostile declaration of the French Directory has gratified or alarmed all those who from sentiment or interest take any notice of our affairs. It has produced an effect upon the stocks, though I have endeavoured as far as I have been able to counteract the impression. I have indeed no Letters from which I can form any opinion whatever upon the State of our public affairs, and all my authentic intelligence is generally six weeks or two months, older than that which is current among the merchants.\nThe military operations upon the Rhine have not been very important since the retreat of the two French Armies. An Armistice has already partially taken place, and will no doubt be extended the whole length of that River. Mantua is now abandoned to its fate and is like very soon to be taken. The Season must very soon compel a suspension of hostilities, which it is hoped will not again be renewed.\nThere is a maritime expedition in preparation from France, the direction of which is not known, but supposed to be, a descent in Ireland. There are said to be at Brest 15 ships of the Line and seven frigates, on board of which are embarked 15000 men, with arms, artillery &c for 50,000. They are said to have a concert with the malcontents in Ireland and expect to be joined by them upon their landing. There is another embarkation at Dunkirk destined as it is supposed to join that from Brest. The troops employed appear to be very much dissatisfied with the service. The admiral Villaret Joyeuse, and almost all the commanding Officers have been displaced and others appointed in their stead. The marine Minister is gone to Brest to  pacify an insurrection which has taken place on board the fleet, and reconcile the troops to the expedition. Hoche has the command in chief.\nI have informed you heretofore how cavalierly the Constitution lately produced here has been treated, and the appointment of a new Committee to draw up another. There was an inconsistency in the two decrees of the National Assembly, the first, accepting the plan proposed as a ground-work for deliberation, and the second pass\u2019d six days afterwards and setting it altogether aside, at which some people have had the weakness to be surprized. But in order to remove all doubts not only of the cause but of the manner whereby the alteration was effected, two members of the Assembly have published an address to the Batavian People, declaring that they were the persons who brought it to pass. That when they found a Constitution brought to light infected with the venom of federalism and calculated only to call back the Stadholder and slavery, that this Constitution was favoured by a great majority of the Assembly, and that their hapless Country was upon the point of receiving the coup de grace, they united themselves with a very small number of friends to Liberty, and the next moment stepped into a Carriage, went to Paris, and deposited their well-grounded apprehensions in the bosom of the french Government. The consequences they add, are apparent; federalism finds its six months labour fruitless, the haters of liberty spite of the thousand masks under which they strive to conceal their detested faces will be crushed, and Netherland will be free.\u2014Such is the mode of debating Constitutions here.\nI am, Dear Sir, in constant duty and affection, your Son\nJohn Q. Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1814", "content": "Title: To John Adams from Thomas Jefferson, 28 December 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Adams, John\nDear Sir\nMonticello Dec. 28. 1796\nThe public and the public papers have been much occupied lately, in placing us in point of opposition to each other. I trust with confidence that less of it has been felt by ourselves personally. In the retired canton where I am, I learn little of what is passing: pamphlets I see never: papers but a few; and the fewer the happier. Our latest intelligence from Philadelphia at present is of the 16th. inst. but tho\u2019 at that date your election to the first magistracy seems not to have been known as a fact, yet with me it has never been doubted. I knew it impossible you should lose a vote North of the Deleware, & even if that of Pennsylvania should be against you in the mass, yet that you would get enough South of that to place your succession out of danger. I have never one single moment expected a different issue, and though I know I shall not be believed, yet it is not the less true that I have never wished it. My neighbors, as my compurgators, could aver that fact, because they see my occupations and my attachment to them. Indeed it is possible that you may be cheated of your succession by a trick worthy of the subtlety of your arch-friend of New York, who has been able to make of your real friends tools to defeat their & your just wishes. Most probably he will be disappointed as to you; & my inclinations place me out of his reach. I leave to others the sublime delights of riding in the storm, better pleased with sound sleep and a warm birth below, with the society of neighbors, friends and fellow laborers of the earth, than of spies & sycophants. No one then will congratulate you with purer disinterestedness than myself. The share indeed which I may have had in the late vote, I shall still value highly, as an evidence of the share I have in the esteem of my fellow citizens. but while, in this point of view, a few votes more or less would be little sensible, the difference in the effect of a few more would be very sensible and oppressive to me. I have no ambition to govern men. It is a painful and thankless office. Since the day too on which you signed the treaty of Paris our horizon was never so overcast. I devoutly wish you may be able to shun for us this war by which our agriculture, commerce and credit will be destroyed. If you are, the glory will be all your own; that your administration may be filled with glory, & happiness to yourself and advantage to us is the sincere wish of one who though, in the course of our voyage through life, various little incidents have happened or been contrived to separate us, retains still for you the solid esteem of the moments when we were working for our independence, and sentiments of respect & affectionate attachment\nTh: Jefferson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Adams/99-02-02-1816", "content": "Title: John Adams, Deposition regarding Mitchell\u2019s Map, 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: \nDeposition of President Adams\u2014In answer to Interrogatories by the Agent on the part of the United States he deposed, \u201cthat Mitchell\u2019s Map was the only Map or Plan which was used by the Commissioners at their public Conferences, tho\u2019 other Maps were occasionally consulted by the American Commissioners at their Lodgings; the British Commissioners at first claimed to Piscataqua River, then to Kennebeck, then to Penobscot, and Length agreed to St: Croix as marked on Mitchell\u2019s Map\u2014one of the American Ministers at first proposed the River St: Johns as marked on Mitchell\u2019s Map, but his Colleagues observing, that as Saint Croix was the River mentioned in the Charter of Massachusett\u2019s Bay they could not justify insisting on Saint Johns as an Ultimatum, he agreed with them to adhere to the Charter of Massachusett\u2019s Bay\u201d\u2014but in Answer to the following Interrogatory by the Commissioners, for the Sake of Explanation, \u201cWhether it was understood, intended, or agreed, between the British and American Commissioners that the River Saint Croix, as marked on Mitchell\u2019s Map should so be the Boundary as to preclude all Enquiry respecting any Error or Mistake in the said Map in designating the River Saint Croix; or whether there was any, and if so what, Understanding, Intent, or Agreement between the Commissioners relative to the Case of Error or Mistake in this respect in the said Map?\u201d\u2014he further deposed, \u201cthat the Case of such supposed Error or Mistake was not suggested, and consequently there was no Understanding, Intent, or Agreement expressed respecting it.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0001", "content": "Title: Petition of Merchants and Masters of Vessels Trading from the City of Albany to the City of New York, [1\u201319 January 1796]\nFrom: Merchants and Masters of Vessels Trading from the City of Albany to the City of New York\nTo: Congress\n[New York, January 1\u201319, 1796]\nTo the Congress of the United States\nThe Memorial & Petition of the Subscribers respectfully sheweth\nThat Your Memorialists are Owners or Masters or both of coasting vessels employed ordinarily and exclusively in transporting articles between the Cities of New York and Albany.\nThat by a late Act of Congress constituting the City of Hudson a Port of Entry the Port of Albany has been annexed to it as part of the same district and consequently severed from the District of New York.\nThat this arrangement subjects Your Memorialists to all the regulations of Vessels trading between different districts and to a variety of embarrassments and expences, in carrying on their business, very prejudicial to it, to which they were not before subject and which as they humbly apprehend can tend in no wise to the security or advantage of the United States their Revenue or Trade.\nThat while your Memorialists are disposed to see with pleasure any arrangement which accommodates their fellow Citizens of Hudson, they must unavoidably feel regret, if it must necessarily be at their expence\u2014and if no expedient can be devised by which the evil to them can be remedied.\nFor though from Geographical position their annexation to Hudson may appear most natural; yet no connection can be more unnatural, when considered with reference to the Commercial relations of the two places. New York is at once the Market as well for the produce carried from Albany as for the supply to Albany & the Country connected with it of all the foreign and other articles of which they stand in need.\nIf it can appear expedient to Congress to reannex the port of Albany to the District of New York the inconvenie\u27e8nce\u27e9 under which Your Memorialists suffer will be removed\u2014their business will return to its former situation\u2014The City of Hudson will retain the convenience of being a port of Entry\u2014all parties will be accommodated and no detriment as they with great deference conceive will ensue to the U States. In such an arrangement it will be of course necessary that the intermediate Waters should be common to the two Districts.\nWith this view Yr. Memoria[li]sts respectfully submit their case to the favourable consideration of Congress & pray that an Act may be passed accordingly.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0002", "content": "Title: The Defence No. XXXVI, [2 January 1796]\nFrom: \u201cCamillus\u201d,Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: \n[New York, January 2, 1796]\nIt is now time to fulfil my promise of an examination of the constitutionality of the Treaty. Of all the objections which have been contrived against this instrument, those relating to this point are the most futile. If there be a political problem capable of complete demonstration, the constitutionality of the Treaty in all its parts is of this sort. It is even difficult to believe that any man in either House of Congress who values his reputation for discernment or sincerity will publicly hazard it by a serious attempt to controvert the position.\nIt is nevertheless too much a fashion with some politicians, when hard pressed on the expediency of a measure to entrench themselves behind objections to its constitutionality. Aware that there is naturally in the public mind a jealous sensibility to objections of that nature, which may predispose against a thing otherwise acceptable if even a doubt in this respect can be raised, they have been too forward to take advantage of this propensity without weighing the real mischief of the example. For, however it may serve a temporary purpose, its ultimate tendency is, by accustoming the people to observe that alarms of this kind are repeated with levity and without cause, to prepare them for distrusting the cry of danger, when it may be real. Yet the imprudence has been such, that there has scarcely been an important public question which has not involved more or less of this species of controversy.\nIn the present case, the motives of those, who may incline to defeat the Treaty are unusually strong for creating if possible a doubt concerning its constitutionality. The Treaty having been ratified on both sides, the Dilemma plainly is between a violation of the constitution by the Treaty and a violation of the constitution by obstructing the execution of the Treaty.\nThe VI Article of the Constitution of the U States declares that \u201cthat Constitution and the laws of the U States made in pursuance thereof, and all Treaties made or which shall be made under the authority of the U States, shall be the Supreme law of the land, any thing in the constitution or laws of any State to the contrary notwithstanding.\u201d A law of the land till revoked or annulled by the competent authority is binding not less on each branch or department of the Government than on each Individual of the Society. Each house of Congress collectively as well as the members of it separately are under a constitutional obligation to observe the injunctions of a preexisting law and to give it effect. If they act otherwise they infringe the constitution; the theory of which knows in such case no discretion on their part. To resort to first principles for their justification in assuming such a discretion is to go out of the constitution for an authority which they cannot find in it\u2014it is to usurp the original character of the people themselves\u2014it is in principle to prostrate the Government.\nThe cases must be very extraordinary that can excuse so violent an assumption of discretion. They must be of a kind, to authorise a revolution in government; for every resort to original principles in derogation from the established constitution partakes of this character.\nRecalling to view, that all but the first ten articles of the Treaty are liable to expire at the termination of two years after the present War; if the objection to it in point of constitutionality cannot be supported, let me ask who is the man hardy enough to maintain that the instrument is of such a nature as to justify a revolution in Government?\nIf this can be answered in the affirmative, adieu to all the securities which nations expect to deri\u27e8ve\u27e9 from Constitutions of Government. They become mere bubbles subject to be blown away by every breath of party. The precedent would be a fatal one. Our Government from being fixed and limited would become revolutionary and arbitrary. All the provisions, which our Constitution with so much solemnity ordains \u201cfor forming a more perfect union, establishing justice, insuring domestic tranquillity, providing for the common defence, promoting the general welfare and securing the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our Posterity\u201d, evaporate and disappear.\nEqually will this be the case if the rage of party spirit can meditate, if the momentary ascendancy of party in a particular branch of the Govt. can effect and if the people can be so deceived as to tolerate, that the pretence of a violation of the constitution shall be made the instrument of its actual violation.\nThis, however, cannot be. There are already convincing indications, on the very subject before us, that the good sense of the people will triumph over prejudice and the arts of party, that they will finally decide according to their true interest and that any transient or partial superiority which may exist, if abused for the purpose of infracting the constitution, will consign the perpetrators of the infraction to ruin and disgrace. But alas what consolation would there be in the ruin of a party for the ruin of the Constitution!\nIt is time to enter upon the momentous discussion. The question shall be examined under the four following views: 1 in relation to the theory of the constitution 2 in relation to the manner in which it was understood by the convention who framed it & by the people who adopted it 3 in relation to the practice upon a similar power in the Confederation 4 in relation to the practice under our present constitution prior to the Treaty with G B. In all these relations the constitutionality of that Treaty can be vindicated beyond the possibility of a serious doubt.\nI \u2003 As to the theory of the Constitution. The constitution of the U States distributes its powers into three Departments\u2014Legislative\u2014Executive Judiciary. The 1. Article defines the structure and specifies various powers of the Legislative Department. The second article establishes the organisation and powers of the Executive Department. The third article does the same with regard to the Judiciary Department. The 4 & 5 & the 6 article, which is the last, are a miscellany of particular provisions.\nThe 1st article declares that \u201call legislative powers granted by the Constitution shall be vested in a Congress of the U States which shall consist of a senate & House of Representatives.\u201d\nThe 2d article, which organises and regulates the Executive Department, declares that \u201cthe Executive Power shall be vested in a President of the U States of America\u201d and, proceeding to detail particular authorities of the Executive, it declares that \u201cThe President shall have power, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, To Make Treaties, provided two thirds of the Senators present concur.\u201d There is in no part of the Constitution an explanation of this power to make Treaties, any definition of its objects or delineation of its bounds. The only other provision in the constitution respecting it is in the 6th article, which provides, as already noticed, that all Treaties made or which shall be made under the authority of the UStates shall be the supreme law of the land; and this, notwithstanding any thing in the constitution or laws of any state to the contrary.\nIt was impossible for words more comprehensive to be used than those which grant the power to make treaties. They are such as would naturally be employed to confer a plenipotentiary authority. A power \u201cto make Treaties,\u201d granted in these indefinite terms, extends to all kinds of treaties and with all the latitude which such a power under any form of Government can possess. The power \u201cto make,\u201d implies a power to act authoritatively and conclusively; independent of the after clause which expressly places treaties among the Supreme Laws of the land. The thing to be made is a Treaty; With regard to the objects of the Treaty, there being no specification, there is of course a charte blanche. The general proposition must therefore be that whatever is a proper subject of compact between Nation & Nation may be embraced by a Treaty between the President of the U States, with the advice and consent of the Senate, and the correspondent Organ of a foreign state.\nThe authority being general it comprises of course whatever cannot be shewn to be, necessarily, an exception to it.\nThe only constitutional exception to the power of making Treaties is that it shall not change the constitution; which results from this fundamental maxim that a delegated authority cannot rightfully transcend the constituting act unless so expressly authorised by the constituting Power. A treaty for example cannot transfer the legislative power to the Executive Department nor the power of this last Department to the Judiciary; in other words it can not stipulate that the President and not Congress shall make laws for the U States; that the Judges and not the President shall command the national forces &c.\nAgain there is also a natural exception to the power of making treaties, as there is to every other delegated power; which respects abuses of authority in palpable and extreme cases. On natural principles, a Treaty which should manifestly betray or sacrifice primary interests of the State would be null. But this presents a question foreign from that of the modification or distribution of constitutional powers. It applies to the case of the pernicious exercise of a power, where there is legal competency. Thus the power of Treaty, though extending to the right of making alliances offensive and defensive, may yet be exercised in making an alliance so obviously repugnant to the safety of the State as to justify the non observance of the Contract.\nBeyond these exceptions to the Power, none occurs that can be supported.\nThose which have been insisted upon towards invalidating the Treaty with Great Britain are not even plausible. They amount to this, that a treaty can establish nothing between the U States and a foreign nation which it is the province of the legislative authority to regulate in reference to the U States alone. It cannot for instance establish a particular rule of commercial intercourse between the U States & G Britain because it is provided in the constitution, that Congress shall \u201chave power to regulate commerce with foreign nations.\u201d This is equivalent to affirming that all the objects upon which the legislative power may act in relation to our own Country are excepted out of the power to make Treaties.\nTwo obvious considerations refute this doctrine. One that the power to make Treaties and the power to make laws are different things, operating by different means, upon different subjects, the other, that the construction resulting from such a doctrine would defeat the power to make Treaties; while its opposite reconciles this power with the power of making laws.\nThe power to make laws is \u201cthe power of pronouncing authoritatively the will of the Nation as to all persons and things over which it has jurisdiction\u201d; or it may be defined to be \u201cthe power of prescribing rules binding upon all persons and things over which the nation has jurisdiction.\u201d It acts compulsively upon all persons, whether foreigners or Citizens, and upon all things, within its territory, and it acts in like manner upon its own citizens and their property without its territory in certain cases and under certain limitations. But it can have no obligatory action whatsoever upon a foreign nation or any person or thing within the jurisdiction of such foreign Nation.\nThe power of Treaty on the other hand is the power by agreement, convention or compact to establish rules binding upon two or more nations their respective citizens and property. The rule established derives its reciprocal obligation from promise, from the faith which the contracting parties pledge to each other, not from the power of either to prescribe a rule for the other. Tis not here the will of a Superior that commands, tis the consent of two independent parties that contract.\nThe means which the power of legislation employs are laws which it enacts, or rules which it enjoins, the subject upon which it acts is the Nation of whom it is, the persons and property within the jurisdiction of that Nation. The means, which the Power of Treaty employs, are contracts with other nations, who may or may not enter into them, the subject upon which it acts is the nations contracting and those persons and things of each to which the contract relates. Though a Treaty may effect what a law can, yet a law cannot effect what a Treaty may. These discriminations are obvious and decisive; and however the operation of a Treaty may in some things resemble that of a law no two ideas are more distinct than that of legislating and that of contracting.\nIt follows that there is no ground for the inference pretended to be drawn, that the legislative powers of Congress are excepted out of the power of making Treaties. It is the province of the latter to do what the former cannot do. Congress (to pursue still the case of regulating Trade) may regulate by law our own Trade and that which foreigners come to carry on with us, but they cannot regulate the Trade which we may go to carry on in foreign countries, they can give to us no rights no privileges there. This must depend on the will and regulation of those countries; and consequently it is the province of the power of Treaty to establish the rule of commercial intercourse between foreign nations and the U States. The Legislature may regulate our own Trade but Treaty only can regulate the mutual Trade between our own and another Country.\nThe constitution accordingly considers the Power of Treaty as different from that of Legislation. This is proved in two ways \u2003 1 \u2003 that while the Constitution declares that all the legislative powers which it grants shall be vested in Congress, it vests the power of making Treaties in The President with consent of the Senate \u2003 2 \u2003 that the same article by which it is declared that the Executive Power shall be vested in a President and in which sundry executive powers are detailed, gives the Power to make Treaties to the President with the auxiliary agency of the Senate. Thus the power of making Treaties is placed in the class of Executive authorities; while the force of law is annexed to its results. This agrees with the distribution commonly made by theoretical write[r]s\u2014though perhaps the power of Treaty from its peculiar nature ought to form a class by itself.\nWhen it is said that Congress shall have power to regulate Commerce with foreign nations this has reference to the distribution of the general legislative power of regulating Trade between the National and the particular Governments, and serves merely to distinguish the right of regulating our external Trade as far as it can be done by law, which is vested in Congress, from that of regulating the trade of a state within itself which is left to each state.\nThis will the better appear from the intire Clause\u2014\u201cThe Congress shall have power to regulate Commerce with foreign Nations and among the several States and with the Indian Tribes\u201d which is the same as if it had been said \u201cThe whole power of regulating trade by law shall reside in Congress, except as to the Trade within a State, the power to regulate which shall remain with such state.\u201d But it is clearly foreign to that mutual regulation of Trade between the U States and other nations which from the necessity of mutual consent can only be performed by Treaty. Tis indeed an absurdity to say that the power of regulating Trade by law is incompatible with the power of regulating it by Treaty; since the former can by no means do what the latter can alone accomplish. Consequently tis an absurdity to say that the legislative power of regulating trade is an exception to the power of making Treaties.\nLaws are the acts of legislation of a particular Nation for itself. Treaties are the acts of the legislation of several nations for themselves jointly & reciprocally. The Legislative power of one State cannot reach the cases which depend on the joint legislation of two or more States. For this, resort must be had to the pactitious power or the power of Treaty. This is another attitude of the subject displaying the fallacy of the proposition that the legislative powers of Congress are exceptions to or limitations of The Power of The President, with the aid of the Senate, to make Treaties.\nCamillus", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0003", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Duer, 2 January 179[6]\nFrom: Duer, William\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nNew York, January 2, 179[6.] \u201cWill you pardon me, my dear Sir, in requesting of you if you can make it Convenient, a second Loan of Fifty Dollars in the Course Ten Days. I shall be able to return it to you, and first Fifty you was kind Enough lend me.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0004", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jonathan Dayton, 4 January 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Dayton, Jonathan\n[New York, January 4, 1796. On January 15, 1796, Dayton wrote to Hamilton: \u201cYour letter of the 4th is before me.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0005", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jedidiah Morse, [4 January 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Morse, Jedidiah\n[New York, January 4, 1796]\nSir\nYou will confer a favour upon me by permitting me to render you the little service which may be in my power on the present occasion & without compensation. Be assured it will give real pleasure & let that be my recompence.\nMr. Kent & I have conferred on your affair. It is necessary for us to see the book in question in order to a safe opinion. Can one be had?\nWith respect & esteem \u2003 Sir \u2003 Your obed serv\nA HamiltonJany. 4. 1795", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0006", "content": "Title: The Defence No. XXXVII, [6 January 1796]\nFrom: \u201cCamillus\u201d,Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: \n[New York, January 6, 1796]\nIt shall now be shewn, that the objections to the Treaty founded on its pretended interference with the powers of Congress tend to render the Power of making Treaties in a very great degree if not altogether nominal. This will be best seen by an enumeration of the cases of pretended interference.\nI \u2003 The power of Congress to lay taxes is said to be impaired by those stipulations which prevent the laying of duties on particular articles, which also prevent the laying of higher or other duties on British commodities than on the commodities of other countries and which restrict the power of increasing the difference of duties on British Tonnage and on goods imported in British Bottoms.\nII \u2003 The power of Congress to regulate Trade is said to be impaired by the same restrictions respecting duties, inasmuch as they are intended & operate as regulations of Trade\u2014by the stipulations against prohibitions in certain cases and in general by all the rights privileges immunities, and restrictions in Trade which are contained in the Treaty, all which are so many regulations of commerce, which are said to encroach upon the legislative authority.\nIII \u2003 The power of Congress to establish a uniform rule of naturalization is said to be interfered with by those provisions of the Treaty which secure to the settlers within the precints of the British Posts the right of becoming citizens of the U States, and those which in certain cases remove the disability of alienism as to property.\nIV \u2003 The power of Congress \u201cto define and punish piracies and felonies committed on the high seas and offences against the law of Nations\u201d is said to be contravened by those parts of the Treaty which declare that certain acts shall be deemed piracy which constitute certain other things offences & stipulate the reciprocal punishment of them by each.\nV \u2003 It is also said that the constitution is violated in relation to that provision which declares that \u201cno money shall be drawn from the Treasury but in consequence of appropriations made by law\u201d\u2014by those parts of the Treaty which stipulate compensations to certain Commissioners and indemnifications to G Britain in certain cases to be adjusted and pronounced by the commissioners, and generally by all those parts which may involve an expenditure of money.\n[VI] \u2003 The constitution is said to be violated in that part which requires the establishment of Officers of the U States by law\u2014by those stipulations of the Treaty which without the intervention of law provide for the appointment of Commissioners.\n[VII] \u2003 The Constitution is said to be violated in that part, which empowers Congress to dispose of and make all needful rules and regulations respecting the territory or other property of the U States, by those provisions of the Treaty which respect the adjustment boundary in the cases of the Rivers St Croix & Mississippi.\n[Lastly,] \u2003 The Constitution is said to be violated in its provisions concerning the Judiciary Department by those parts of the Treaty which contemplate the confiding to the determination of Commissioners certain questions between the two Nations.\nA careful inspection of the Treaty with these objections in view will discover that of the 28 articles which compose it at least seventeenth are involved in the charge of unconstitutionality and these seventeen comprise all the provisions which adjust past controversies or establish rules of Commercial Intercourse between the Parties. The other eleven, whch are the 1st 10th 17th 18th 19th 20th 22d. 23d and 24, except the first, are made up of provisions which have reference to War; the first merely declaring that there shall be peace between the parties. And it is a question even with respect to all of these, except the 1st & 10th, whether they also are not implicated in the charge; inasmuch as some of their dispositions have commercial relations. Is not this alone sufficient to bring under strong suspicion the validity of the principles which impeach the constitutionality of the instrument?\nIt must have been observed, that the argument in the last number is applicable to all the legislative powers of Congress, as well as to that of regulating trade which was selected by way of illustration, the ground of it being common to all. Indeed the instance of the regulation of Trade is that which is most favourable to the opposite doctrine\u2014since foreign nations are named in the clause; the true intent of which however has been explained.\nThe same reasoning too would extend the power of Treaties to those objects which are consigned to the legislation of individual states; but here the constitution has announced its meaning in express terms, by declaring that the treaties which have been and shall be made under the authority of the U States shall be the supreme law of the land any thing in the constitution or laws of any state to the contrary notwithstanding. This manifestly recognises the supremacy of the power of treaties over the laws of particular states and goes even a step farther.\nThe obvious reason for this special provision in regard to the laws of individual states is that there might otherwise have been room for question whether a Treaty of the Union could embrace objects the internal regulation of which belonged to the separate authorities of the States. But with regard to the U States there was no room for a similar question. The power of Treaty could not but be supposed commensurate with all those objects to which the legislative power of the Union extended.\nIt is a question among some theoretical Writers\u2014whether a Treaty can repeal preexisting laws? This question must always be answered by the particular form of Government of each Nation. In our constitution, which gives ipso facto the force of law to Treaties, making them equally with the Acts of Congress, the supreme law of the land, a Treaty must necessarily repeal an antecedent law contrary to it; according to the legal maxim that \u201cleges posteriores priores contrarias abrogant\u201d\n   Posterior laws abrogate those which are prior to them if contradictory.\nBut even in those forms of government in which there may be room for such a question, it is not understood that a Treaty containing stipulations which require the repeal of antecedent laws is on that account unconstitutional and null. The true meaning is that the antecedent laws are not ipso facto abrogated by the Treaty. But the Legislature is nevertheless bound in good faith under the general limitation stated in another place to lend its authority to remove obstacles which previous laws might oppose to the fair execution of a Treaty.\nOne instance of the inconsistency prevailing in the arguments against the Treaty negotiated by Mr. Jay [is] observable on this point. To get rid of the infractions of our Treaty of peace with G Britain by certain laws of particular States, it is strenuously maintained that Treaties controul the laws of states. To impeach the constitutionality of the Treaty under consideration it is objected that in some points it interferes with the objects of state-legislation. The express provision of the constitution in this particular quoted above has not been sufficient to check the rage for objection.\nThe absurdity of the alleged interferences will fully appear by shewing how they would operate upon the several kinds of Treaties usual among nations. These may be classed under three principal heads \u2003 1 \u2003 Treaties of Commerce \u2003 2 \u2003 Treaties of Alliance \u2003 3 \u2003 Treaties of Peace.\nTreaties of Commerce are of course excluded, for every Treaty of Commerce is a system of rules devised to regulate and govern the Trade between Contracting Nations; invading directly the exclusive power of regulating Trade which is attributed to Congress.\nTreaties of Alliance whether defensive or offensive are equally excluded, and this on two grounds\u20141 \u2003 because it is their immediate object to define a case or cases in which one nation shall take part with another in war, contrary, in the sense of the objection, to that clause of the constitution which gives to Congress the power of declaring war, and 2 \u2003 because the succours stipulated in whatever shape they may be must involve an expenditure of money\u2014not to say that it is common to stipulate succours in money either in the first instance or by way of alternative. It will be pertinent to observe incidentally in this place, that even the humane and laudable provision in the XXII article, which all have approved, is within the spirit of the objection; for the effect of this is to restrain the power and discretion of Congress to grant reprisals till there has been an unsuccessful demand of Justice.\n3 \u2003 Treaties of peace are also excluded or at the least are so narrowed as to be in the greatest number of cases impracticable. The most common conditions of these Treaties are restitutions or cessions of territory on one side or on the other, frequently on both sides, regulations of boundary, restitutions & confirmations of property\u2014pecuniary indemnifications for injuries or expences. It will probably not be easy to find a precedent of a Treaty of Peace which does not contain one or more of these provisions as the basis of the cessation of hostilities, and they are all of them naturally to be looked for in an agreement which is to put an end to the state of War between conflicting nations. Yet they are all precluded by the objections which have been enumerated\u2014pecuniary indemnifications, by that which respects the appropriation of money; restitutions or cessions of territory or property, regulations of boundary, by that which respects the right of Congress to dispose of and make all needful rules and regulations concerning the territory and property of the U States. It is to be observed likewise that cessions of territory are almost always accompanied with stipulations in favour of those who inhabit the ceded territory securing personal privileges and private rights of property; neither of which could be acceded to on the principle of that objection, which relates to the power of naturalization; for this power has reference to two species of rights, those of privilege and those of property. An act allowing a foreigner to hold real estate is so far an act of naturalization; since it is one of the consequences of alienism not to be able to hold real estate.\nIt follows that if the objections which are taken to the Treaty on the point of constitutionality are valid, The President with the advice and consent of the senate, can make neither a Treaty of Commerce nor Alliance, and rarely, if at all, a Treaty of Peace. It is probable that on a minute analysis, there is scarcely any species of treaty which would not clash, in some particular, with the principle of those objections; and thus, as was before observed, the power to make treaties granted in such comprehensive and indefinite terms and guarded with so much precaution would become essentially nugatory.\nThis is so obviously against the principles of sound construction, it at the same time exposes the Government to so much impotence in one great branch of political power, in opposition to a main intent of the Constitution\u2014and it tends so directly to frustrate one principal object of the institution of a General Government\u2014the convenient management of our external concerns\u2014that it cannot but be rejected by every discerning man who will examine and pronounce with sincerity.\nIt is against the principles of sound construction; because these teach us that every instrument is so to be interpreted, that all the parts may if possible consist with each other and have effect. But the construction which is combated would cause the legislative power to destroy the power of making Treaties. Moreover, If the power of the Executive Department be inadequate to the making of the several kinds of Treaties which have been mentioned, there is then no power in the Government to make them; for there is not a syllable in the constitution which authorises either the Legislative or Judiciary Department to make a Treaty with a foreign Nation. And our Constitution would then exhibit the ridiculous spectacle of a Government without a power to make Treaties with foreign nations: a result as inadmissible as it is absurd, since in fact our Constitution grants the power of making Treaties in the most explicit and ample Terms to the President with the advice and consent of the Senate.\nOn the contrary, all difficulty is avoided by distinguishing the provinces of the two powers according to ideas which have been always familiar to us and which were never exposed to any question till the Treaty with G Britain gave exercise to the subtilties of party-spirit.\nBy confining the power to make laws within its proper sphere & restricting its action to the establishment of rules for our own nation and those foreigners who come within our jurisdiction, and by assigning to the power of Treaty the office of concerting those rules of mutual intercourse and connection between us and foreign nations which require their consent as well as our own; allowing to it the latitude necessary for this purpose, a harmonious agreement is preserved between the different powers of the Government\u2014that to make laws and that to make treaties between the authority of the Legislative & the authority of the Executive department.\nHence Though Congress by the Constitution have power to lay taxes, yet a Treaty may restrain the exercise of it in particular cases: for a Nation like an individual may abrige its moral power by agreement and the organ charged with the legislative power of a nation may be restrained in its operation by the agreements of the Organ of its F\u0153derative Power or power to contract. Let it be remembered that the Nation is the Constituent; & that the Executive within its sphere is no less the organ of its will than the Legislature.\nThough Congress are empowered to make regulations of Trade; yet they are not exclusively so empowered, but regulations of Trade may also be made by Treaty, and where other nations are to be bound by them must be made by Treaty.\nThough Congress are authorised to establish a uniform rule of naturalization, yet this contemplates only the ordinary cases of internal administration. In particular & extraordinary cases, those in which the pretensions of a foregin Government are to be managed\u2014a Treaty may also confer the rights and privileges of Citizens. Thus the absolute cession and plenary dominion of a province or district possessed by our arms in War may be accepted by the Treaty of Peace on the condition that its inhabitants shall in their persons and property enjoy the privileges of citizens.\nThe same reasoning applies to all the other instances of supposed infraction of the legislative authority; with regard to piracies and offences against the laws of Nations; with regard to expenditures of money; with regard to the appointment of officers; with regard to the judiciary tribunals; with regard to the disposal and regulation of national territory & property. In all these cases the power to make laws and the power to make treaties are concurrent and coordinate. The latter and not the former must act where the cooperation of other Nations is requisite.\nAs to what respects the Commissioners agreed to be appointed, they are not in a strict sense Officers. They are arbitrators between the two Countries. Though in the Constitutions, both of the U States and of most of the Individual states, a particular mode of appointing officers is designated, yet in practice it has not been deemed a violation of the provision to appoint Commissioners or special Agents for special purposes in a different mode.\nAs to the provision, which restricts the issuing of money from the Treasury to cases of appropriation by law, and which from its intrinsic nature may be considered as applicable to the exercise of every power of the Government, it is in no sort touched by the Treaty. The constant practice of the Government, the cause of an expenditure or the contract which incurs it, is a distinct thing from the appropriation for satisfying it. Thus the salary of a public officer is fixed by one law, the appropriation for its payment by another. So, the Treaty only stipulates what may be a cause of Expenditure. An appropriation by law will still be requisite for actual payment.\nAs to the disposal & regulation of the territory and property of the U States, this will be naturally understood of dispositions and regulations purely domestic and where the title is not disputed by a foreign power. Where there are interfering claims of foreign powers, as neither will acknowlege the right of the other to decide, Treaty must directly or indirectly adjust the dispute.\nSo far then is it from being true that the Power of Treaty can extend to nothing upon which, in relation to ourselves, the Legislative Power may act\u2014that it may rather be laid down as a general rule that a Treaty may do between different Nations whatever the legislative Power of each may do with regard to itself. The exceptions to this rule are to be deduced from the unfitness & inconvenience of its application to particular cases and are of the nature of abuses of a general principle.\nIn considering the power of Legislation, in its relations to the Power of Treaty, instead of saying that the objects of the former are excepted out of the latter, it will be more correct, indeed it will be intirely correct to invert the rule and to say that the Power of Treaty is the power of making exceptions in particular cases to the power of Legislation. The stipulations of Treaty are in good faith restraints upon the exercise of the last mentioned power. Where there is no Treaty it is completely free to act. Where there is a Treaty, it is still free to act in all the cases not specially excepted by the Treaty. Thus Congress is free to regulate Trade with a foreign nation with whom we have no Treaty of Commerce in such manner as they judge for the interest of the U States, and they are also free so to regulate it with a foreign nation with whom we have a Treaty, in all the points which that Treaty does not specifically except. There is always therefore great latitude for the exercise of the legislative power of regulating Trade with foreign Nations notwithstanding any Treaties of Commerce which may be formed.\nThe effect of a Treaty to impose restraints upon the legislative power may in some degree be exemplified by the case of the compacts which the legislative Power itself makes, as with regard to the Public Debt. Its own compacts are in good faith exceptions to its power of action. Treaties with foreign powers for obvious reasons are much stronger exceptions.\nCamillus", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0007", "content": "Title: The Defence No. XXXVIII, [9 January 1796]\nFrom: \u201cCamillus\u201d,Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: \n[New York, January 9, 1796]\nThe manner in which the power of Treaty as it exists in the Constitution was understood by the Convention, in framing it, and by the people in adopting it, is the point next to be considered.\nAs to the sense of the Convention, the secrecy with which their deliberations were conducted does not permit any formal proof of the opinions and views which prevailed in digesting the power of Treaty. But from the best opportunity of knowing the fact, I aver, that it was understood by all to be the intent of the provision to give to that power the most ample latitude to render it competent to all the stipulations, which the exigencies of National Affairs might require\u2014competent to the making of Treaties of Alliance, Treaties of Commerce, Treaties of Peace and every other species of Convention usual among nations and competent in the course of its exercise to controul & bind the legislative power of Congress. And it was emphatically for this reason that it was so carefully guarded; the cooperation of two thirds of the Senate with the President being required to make a Treaty. I appeal for this with confidence to every member of the Convention\u2014particularly to those in the two houses of Congress. Two of these, are in the House of Representatives, Mr. Madison & Mr. Baldwin. It is expected by the adversaries of the Treaty that these Gentlemen will in their places obstruct its execution. However this may be, I feel a confidence that neither of them will deny the assertion I have made. To suppose them capable of such a denial were to suppose them utterly regardless of truth.\nBut though direct proof of the views of the Convention on the point cannot be produced\u2014yet we are not wholly without proof on this head. Three Members of the Convention dissented from the Constitution, Mr. Mason, Mr. Gerry & Mr. Randolph. Among the reasons for his dissent published by Mr. Mason, we find this clause \u201cBy declaring all Treaties supreme laws of the land, the Executive and the Senate have, in many cases, an exclusive power of legislation, which might have been avoided by proper distinctions with respect to Treaties, and requiring the assent of the House of Representatives where it could be done with safety.\u201d This shews the great extent of the power in the conception of Mr. Mason\u2014that in many cases it amounted to an exclusive power of legislation; nor did he object to the extent, but only desired that it should have been further guarded, by certain distinctions and by requiring in certain cases the assent of the House of Representatives.\nAmong the objections to the constitution addressed by Mr Gerry to the legislature of Massachusettes we find one to have been \u201cthat Treaties of the highest importance might be formed by the President with the advice of two thirds of a quorum of the Senate.\u201d This shews his idea of the magnitude of the power; and impliedly admitting as well as Mr Mason the propriety of this, he seems only to have desired that the concurrence of the senate should have embraced two thirds of the whole body instead of two thirds of a quorum. But how small and how insignificant would the power of Treaty be, according to the doctrine lately advanced with regard to its constitutional limit?\nAs to the sense of the Community, in the adoption of the Constitution this can only be ascertained from two sources, the writings for and against the Constitution and the debates in the several state Conventions.\nI possess not at this moment materials for an investigation which would enable me to present the evidence they afford. But I refer to them, with confidence, for proof of the fact, that the organisation of the power of Treaty in the Constitution was attacked and defended, with an admission on both sides of its being of the character which I have assigned to it. Its great extent & importance\u2014its effect to controul by its stipulations the legislative authority were mutually taken for granted\u2014and, upon this basis, it was insisted by way of objection\u2014that there were not adequate guards for the safe exercise of so vast a power\u2014that there ought to have been reservations of certain rights, a better disposition of the power to impeach, and a participation, general or special, of the House of Representatives. The reply to these objections, acknowleging the delicacy and magnitude of the power, was directed to shew that its organisation was a proper one and that it was sufficiently guarded.\n   F\u0153deralist Vol II No XLII has these passages \u201cthe power to make treaties and to receive and send ambassadors speak their own propriety. Both of them are comprised in the articles of confederation with the difference only that the former is disembarrassed by the plan of the convention of an exception by which treaties might be substantially frustrated by regulations of the states.\u201d This plainly alludes to the proviso which has been cited and commented upon. \u201cIt is true that when treaties of commerce stipulate for the appointment of articles the admission of foreign consuls may fall within the power of making commercial treaties\u201d and in No. LXIV are these passages \u201cthe power of making treaties is an important one, especially as it relates to War Peace and commerce; and it should not be delegated but in such a mode and with such precautions as will afford the highest security that it will be exercised by men the best qualified for the purpose and in the manner most condusive to the public good.\u201d \u201cThere are few who will not admit that the affair of Trade and Navigation should be regulated by a system cautiously formed and steadily pursued and that both our treaties and our laws should correspond with and be made to promote it.\u201d \u201cSome are displeased with it (that is the power of treaty) not on account of any errors or defects in it, but because as the treaties when made are to have the force of laws they should be made only by men invested with legislative authority\u201d\u2014\u201cothers though content that treaties should be made in the mode proposed are averse to their being the supreme laws of the land.\u201d\n   It is generally understood that two persons were concerned in the writings of these papers who from having been members of the convention had a good opportunity of knowing its views\u2014and were under no temptation at that time, in this particular, to misrepresent them.\n   In the Address and reasons of dissent of the Minority of the convention of Pennsylvania to their constituents they state that they had suggested the following proposition among others for an amendment to the constitution \u201cThat no treaty which shall be directly opposed to the existing laws of the United States in Congress assembled shall be valid until such laws shall be repealed or made conformable to such treaty.\u201d This shews that it was understood that the power of treaty in the constitution extended to abrogating even pr[e]existing laws of the United States which was thought exception[a]ble; while no objection was made to the idea of its controuling future exercises of the legislative power. The same address states in another place that the President and Senate \u201cmay form Treaties with foreign Nations that may controul and abrogate the constitution and laws of the several states.\u201d\n   In the 2d volume of the debates of the convention of Virginia which is the only part I possess\u2014there are many passages that shew the great extent of the power of treaty in the opinion of the speakers on both sides. As quotation would be tedious I will content myself with refering to the papers where they will be found (viz) 91, 99, 131, 137, 143, 147, 150, 186. It will in particular appear that while the opposers of the constitution denied the power of the house of Representatives to break in upon or controul the power of treaties, the friends of the constitution did not affirm the contrary but merely contended that the House of Representatives might check by its influence the President and Senate on the subject of treaties.\nThe manner of exercising a similar power under the Confederation shall now be examined.\nTo judge of the similarity of the provision it will be useful to quote the terms in which it is made. They are these \u201cThe U States in Congress assembled shall have the sole and exclusive right & power of entering into Treaties and Alliances, provided that no Treaty of Commerce shall be made whereby the legislative power of the respective states shall be restrained from imposing such imposts and duties on foreigners as their own people are subjected to or from prohibiting the importation or exportation of any species of commodities whatsoever.\u201d (Article IX)\nIt will not be disputed that the words \u201cTreaties and alliances\u201d are of equivalent import and of no greater force than the single word Treaties. An alliance is only a species of Treaty, a particular of a general. And the power of \u201centering into Treaties,\u201d which terms confer the authority under which the former Government acted, will not be pretended to be stronger than the power \u201cto make Treaties,\u201d which are the terms constituting the authority under which the present Government acts. It follows that the power respecting treaties under the former and that under the present Governt. are similar.\nBut though similar, that under the present Government is more comprehensive; for it is divested of the restriction in the proviso cited above\u2014and is fortified by the express declaration that its acts shall be valid notwithstanding the constitution or laws of any state. This is evidence, (as was the fact) of a disposition in the Convention to disembarrass and reinforce the power of making Treaties.\nIt ought not to pass unnoticed, that an important argument results from the proviso which accompanies the power granted by the Confederation as to the natural extent of this power. The declaration, that no Treaty of Commerce shall be made restraining the legislative power of a state from &c [imposing such duties and imposts on foreigners as their own people are subject to, or from prohibiting the importation or exportation of any species of commodities whatsoever] is an admission 1 that the general power of entering into Treaties includes that of making Treaties of Commerce, and 2 that without the limitation in the proviso, a Treaty of Commerce might have been made which would restrain the legislative authority of the State in the points interdicted by that proviso.\nLet it not be said that the proviso by implication granted the power to make Treaties of Commerce; for besides that this is inconsistent with the more obvious meaning of the clause\u2014the first article of the Confederation leaves to the States individually every power not expressly delegated to the U States in Congress assembled. The power of Congress therefore to make a Treaty of Commerce and every other Treaty they did make\u2014must be vindicated on the ground that the express grant of power to enter into Treaties & alliances is a general, which necessarily includes as particulars, the various treaties they have made & the various stipulations of those Treaties.\nUnder this power thus granted & defined, the alliance with France was contracted; guaranteeing in the case of a defensive War her West India possessions, and when the casus f\u0153deris occurs obliging the U States to make War for the defence of those possessions and consequently to incur the expences of War.\nUnder the same power, Treaties of Commerce were made with France, the U Netherlands, Sweden and Prussia. Besides that every Treaty of Commerce is necessarily a regulation of Commerce between the parties\u2014it has been shewn in the antecedent comparison of those Treaties with the one lately negotiated, that they produce the specific effects of restraining the legislative power from imposing higher or other duties on the articles of those nations than on the like articles of other nations and from extending prohibitions to them which shall not equally extend to other nations the most favoured; and thus abrige the exercise of the legislative power to tax, and the exercise of the legislative power to regulate Trade. These Treaties likewise define & establish the same case of piracy which is defined in the Treaty with G Britain. Moreover the Treaty with France as has been elsewhere shewn with regard to rights of property naturalizes the whole French Nation.\nThe Consular Convention with France, negotiated likewise under the same power grants to the Consuls of that Country various authorities and jurisdictions, some of the judicial nature, which are actual transfers to them of portions of the internal jurisdiction and ordinary judiciary power of the Country the exercise of which our Government is bound to aid with its whole strength. It also grants exemptions to French Consuls from certain kinds of taxes & to them and French Citizens from all personal services; all which are very delicate interferences with our internal police and ordinary jurisdiction.\nUnder the same Power the Treaty with Morrocco was formed, which besides various other regulations relative to War and several relative to Trade, contains the rule that neither party shall make War, without a previous demand of reparation, in restraint of the general discretionary power of Congress to declare war.\nUnder the same power, the Treaty of Peace with Great Britain was made. This treaty contains the establishment of a boundary line between the parties which, in part, is arbitrary and could not have been predicated upon precise antecedent right. It prohibits the future confiscation of the property of adherents to G Britain, declares that no person shall on account of the part he took in the war suffer any future loss or damage in his person liberty or property and provides for the release of such persons from confinement & the discontinuance of prosecutions against them. It is difficult to conceive a higher act of controul both of the legislative & judiciary authority than by this article. These provisions are analogous in principle to those stipulations which in the [second and ninth] articles of the Treaty under examination have given occasion to a constitutional objection.\nUnder the same power, various Treaties with Indians inhabiting the Territory of the U States have been made establishing arbitrary lines of boundary with them; which determine the right of soil on the one side and on the other. Some of these Treaties proceed on the principle of the U States having conquered the Indian Country and profess to make gratuitous concessions to them of the lands which are left to their occupation. There is, also, a feature of importance common to these Treaties, which is the withdrawing of the protection of the U States from those of their Citizens who intrude on Indian lands leaving them to be punished at the pleasure of the Indians.\nHence it appears, that except as to the stipulation for appointing Commissioners, the Treaties made under the confederation contain all the features identically or by analogy which are topics of Constitutional objection to the Treaty before us. They restrain in certain instances the legislative power to lay taxes. They make numerous and equivalent regulations of Trade\u2014they confer the benefits of naturalization as to property. They define cases of piracy\u2014They create causes of Expenditure. They direct and modify the power of war. They erect within the country tribunals unknown to our Constitutions & laws in cases to which they are competent, whereas the Treaty with G B only provides for the appointment of arbitrators in cases to which our Tribunals & laws are incompetent. And They make dispositions concerning the Territory & property of the U States.\nIt is true, that some of the Treaties made under the former Government, though subsequent to the proposing of the articles of Confederation to the States, were prior to the final adoption of these Articles; but still it is presumeable that the Treaties were negotiated with an eye to the powers of the pending National Compact. Those with Great Britain Sweden Prussia & Morrocco & the convention with France were posterior to the completion of that Compact.\nIt may perhaps be argued that a more extensive construction of the power of Treaty in the confederation than in our present constitution was countenanced by the Union in the same body of legislative powers, with the power of Treaty. But this argument can have no force when it is considered that the principal legislative powers with regard to the objects embraced by the Treaties of Congress were not vested in that body but remained with the individual states. Such are the power of specific taxation, the power of regulating Trade, the power of naturalization &c.\nIf in theory, the objects of legislative power are excepted out of the power of Treaty, this must have been equally, at least, the case with the legislative powers of the state Governments, as with those of the U States. Indeed the argument was much stronger for the exception, where distinct Governments were the depositories of the legislative power than where the same Government was the depository of that power and of the power of Treaty. Nothing but the intrinsic force of the power of Treaty could have enabled it to penetrate the separate spheres of the State Governments. The practice under the confederation, for so many years acquiesced in by all the states is therefore a conclusive illustration of the Power of Treaty and an irresistible refutation of the novel and preposterous doctrine which impeaches the Constitutionality of that lately negotiated. If the natural import of the terms used in the Constitution were less clear and decisive, than they are, that practice is a commentary upon them and fixes their sense. For the sense, in which certain terms were practiced upon a prior Constitution of Government, must be presumed to have been intended in using the like terms in a subsequent Constitution of Government for the same Nation.\nAccordingly, the practice under the present Govt. before the late Treaty has corresponded with that sense.\nOur treaties with several Indian Nations regulate and change the boundaries between them & the U States\u2014and in addition to compensations in Gross they stipulate the payment of certain specific & pepetual annuities. Thus a Treaty in August 1790 with the Creeks (Article 4th) promises them the yearly sum of One thousand five hundred Dollars. And similar features are found in subsequent Treaties with the Six Nations, the Cherookees and the North Western Indians. This last has just been ratified by the unanimous voice of the Senate. It stipulates an annuity of 9500 Dollars, and relinquishes to the Indians a large tract of land which they had by preceding treaties ceded to the U States.\nHence we find that our former Treaties under the present Government as well as one subsequent to that under consideration contradict the doctrine set up against its constitutionality\u2014in the important particulars of making dispositions concerning the Territory and property of the U States\u2014and binding them to raise and pay money. These Treaties have not only been made by the President and ratified by the Senate, without any impeachment of their constitutionality but the House of Representatives has heretofore concurred and without objection in carrying them into effect by the requisite appropriation of money.\nThe consular convention with France stands in a peculiar predicament. It was negotiated under the former government, and ratified under the present; and so may be regarded as a treaty of both governments, illustrative of the extent of the power of Treaty in both. The delicate and even the extraordinary nature of the provisions it contains have been adverted to. Though all reflecting men have thought ill of the propriety of some of them, as inconveniently breaking in upon our interior administration, legislative, executive and judiciary; only acquiesing in them from the difficulty of getting rid of stipulations entered into by our public agents under competent powers, yet no question has been heard about their constitutionality. And Congress have by law assisted their execution by making our judicial tribunals and the public force of the country auxiliary to the decrees of the foreign tribunals which they authorize within our territory.\nIf it should be said, that our constitution by making all former treaties and engagements as obligatory upon the United States under that constitution, as they were under the confederation, rendered the ratification of the convention a matter of necessity\u2014the answer is that either the engagements which it contracted were already conclusive or they were not\u2014if the former, there was no need of a ratification, of the latter, there was no absolute obligation to it. And in every supposition, a ratification by the President with the consent of the Senate could have been predicated only upon the power given in the present constitution in relation to treaties; and to have any validity must have been within the limit of that power.\nBut it has been heretofore seen that the inference from this instrument is no less strong, if referred to the power under the confederation, than if referred to the power under the present Constitution.\nHow happens it that all these Invasions of the Constitution if they were such were never discovered, and that the departments of the Government & all parties in the public councils should have cooperated in giving them a sanction. Does it not prove that All were convinced that the power of Treaty applied in our exterior relations to objects which in the ordinary course of internal administration & in reference to ourselves were of the cognizance of the legislative power? and particularly that the former was competent to bind the latter in the delicate points of raising and appropriating money? If competent to this, what legislative power can be more sacred, more out its reach?\nLet me now ask (and a very solemn question it is, especially for those who are bound by oath to support the Constitution)\u2014Has it not been demonstrated that the provisions in the Treaty are justified by the true & manifest interpretation of the Constitution sanctioned by the practice upon a similar power under the Confederation, and by the practice in other instances under the present government?\nIf this has been demonstrated, what shall we think of the candor & sincerity of the objections which have been erected on the basis of a contrary supposition? Do they not unequivocally prove that the adversaries of the Treaty have been resolved to discredit it by every artifice they could invent? That they have not had truth for their guide & consequently are very unfit guides for the public Opinion, very unsafe guardians of the public weal?\nIt is really painful & disgusting to observe sophisms so miserable as those which question the constitutionality of the Treaty retailed to an enlightened people and insisted upon with so much seeming fervency & earnestness. It is impossible not to bestow on sensible men who act this part\u2014the imputation of hypochrisy. The absurdity of the doctrine is too glaring to permit even Charity itself to suppose it sincere. If it were possible to imagine that a majority in any branch of our Government could betray the Constitution and trifle with the Nation so far as to adopt and act upon such a doctrine\u2014it would be time to despair of the Republic.\nThere would be no security at home, no respectability abroad. Our Constitutional Charter would become a dead letter & The Organ of our Government for foreign Affairs would be treated with derision whenever he should hereafter talk of negotiation or Treaty. May the Great Ruler of Nations avert from our Country so greivous a calamity!\n   It is very probable that a Treaty with Algiers is now on its way to the U States which may be expected to contain similar stipulations with that with Morocco. This Treaty which will have cost the U States no trifling sum & will [be] of very great value to our Trade must fall equally on the doctrine which I oppose.\nCamillus", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0008", "content": "Title: Certificate on Robert Lenox, [11 January 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: \n[New York, January 11, 1796]\nI certify, that I have an impression on my memory as strong as a circumstance so remote, and of such a nature admits, of my having towards the close of our late war with Great Britain, understood from some of the officers charged on the part of the United States, with the affair of prisoners and from officers of our army, who had been prisoners with the British, that Robert Lenox, now of this city, merchant, then having some connections with some of the British commissaries\u2019 of prisoners, had repeatedly manifested a kind and accommodating disposition towards our prisoners; an impression, which upon our regaining possession of New York, and my becoming acquainted with Mr. Lenox, induced me to shew him marks of cordiality and esteem.\nAlexander Hamilton.New York, Jan. 11, 1796.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0009", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Heth, 11 January 1796\nFrom: Heth, William\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nVirginia 11th January 1796\nMy dear Sir\nI should have written to you long since, but from some doubts that a packet to you might excite curiosity, in your Post Office, not knowing of what kidney, your post-master & his clerks may be.\nCapt Stratton who now takes charge of this, promises to deliver it in person, and tho it is without Signature, you will be at no loss to guess from whom it comes, as it serves to enclose the piece mentioned to you last Winter, written by \u2014\u2014 you know who. Had it been forwarded to you when in Office, even Coll Hamilton, might for a moment have attributed it to views, & motives, by which the Author is incapable of being actuated. But admit that he then had motives for flattering you, he can have none now, and therefore he does not blush to say, that he loves you as a private friend; admires you as an able & most faithful public servant; and venerates you as a Man of most superior talents.\nA single line from you, informing of the same recd of this, will be very pleasing. The author will send you some other things lately written by him in the same stile.\nDo you expect to be in Phila in the course of the Winter, or ensuing spring? I asked the Question, because public-business may oblige me there and I should be pleased to meet with you.\nMention me most respectfully to Mrs. Hamilton, and believe me to be most\nfaithfully & affectionately \u2003 Yrs\nColl A HamiltonNew-Yorke", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0010", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Patterson, 12 January 1796\nFrom: Patterson, John\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nLansingburgh [New York] January 12, 1796. \u201cA Journey to Kinderhook on particular business prevented my receiving the pleasure of your letter untill my return two days ago.\u2026 I enclose this to my oldest son who will wait upon you with it and receive your commands for his Brother John. Having said so much I must beg to add a few words more as to your intended Pupil.\u2026 I must request you will please to order Indentures to be drawn and he will forward them to me to perfect and at the same time send you my Bond for the money.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0011", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Angelica Church, 13 January 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Church, Angelica\n[New York, January 13, 1796. On February 19, 1796, Angelica Church wrote to Hamilton: \u201cYour letters of January the 13th are received.\u201d Letters not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0012", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jonathan Dayton, 15 January 1796\nFrom: Dayton, Jonathan\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhiladelphia, January 15, 1796. \u201cYour letter of the 4th is before me.\u2026 There cannot, I presume, exist a doubt as to my right to a portion of the Certificates alluded to in your letter.\u2026 Mr Stevens the elder declared before his death to my father that he would transfer them to me.\u2026 The short Interrogatory respecting our political prospect with which you conclude your letter, cannot be answered in a few words. Our session has hitherto been remarkably tranquil, but we can have no security that it will continue so, much longer. That Instrument, the cause of so much pleasure to some & of displeasure to others, that Compact which has already drawn forth so many pens & occasioned so much warmth\u2014The treaty (as ratified) has for some time past been impatiently expected, and will, when it arrives & is laid before the House, produce, or I err exceedingly, agitations, collisions & oppositions, the extent of which cannot be foreseen or calculated.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0013", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Morris, 15 January 1796\nFrom: Morris, Robert\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nAlexander Hamilton Esqre\nPhila 15 Janry 1796\nDear Sir\nI wrote to you on the 16 Novr & on the 18th Decemr. You have not acknowledged the receipt of either of those letters, but as they were sent by Post I must suppose they got to your hand. Should that be the Case and any part of the Contents are not satisfactory, explain yourself freely, for I am entirely disposed to act in conformity with your desires in the business depending between us. I expect soon to hear of Mr. Marshalls Arrival in London & perhaps Mr Church and he may adjust the business for us.\nI am very Sincerely Dr Sir \u2003 Yours\nRM", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0016", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [19 January 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n[New York, January 19, 1796]\nSir\nThe Bearer of this letter is Doctor Bolman whom you have heared of as having made an attempt for the relief of the Marquis la Fayette which very nearly succeeded. The circumstances of this affair, as stated by Doctor Bolman & Mr. Huger, son of B Huger of St Carolina deceased, who assisted, do real credit to the prudence management and enterprise of the Doctor and shew that he is a man of sense and energy.\nHe appears to have been induced to think that he attempted a service which would strongly recommend him to the favour of this Country; in which idea I have reason to believe that Mr Pinckney among others encouraged him\u2014and as a consequence of it he hopes for some civil employment under our Government. His expectations of what he may begin with are not high\u2014it being principally his object to obtain some present provision in a way which may lead him, if he discovers talents to something better. He appears to be a man of education\u2014speaks several languages converses sensibly is of polite manners & I dare say has the materials of future advancement.\nI have not left him unapprised of the difficulties in his way, but he concludes to go to Philadelphia to ascertain what is or is not possible, relying at least on a kind reception from you.\nHe brought me letters from Mr & Mrs Church which speak handsomely of him. I believe they had a chief agency in promoting his undertaking\nAt his request I give him this letter to you.\nWith respectful & Affecte Attachment \u2003 I have the honor to be \u2003 Sir \u2003 Your very Obed ser\nA HamiltonJany 19. 1796\nP.S. The Doctor is a German\nThe President of The UStates", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0017", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Maturin Livingston, [20 January 1796]\nFrom: Livingston, Maturin\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[New York, January 20, 1796]\nSir\nI this moment received your note of the 18th instant, and do not hesitate to give it an immediate answer. It is so long since the conversation alluded to in it took place, (and in which many of the company joined) that I can not now charge my memory with all that then passed. I well remember however generally, that the procedure of the town meeting at New York on the subject of the treaty, and what succeeded it relative to yourself Commodore Nicholson and me, occupied a considerable part of that conversation. The Manner in which the altercation between yourself and me was introduced, I have been informed has been related to you by Mr B Livingston. The relation must remove every impression of my having introduced the subject, nor have I any recollection of commenting upon it in the way you have been informed.\nI am Sir \u2003 Your Humble Servt.\nMaturin LivingstonJany 20th 1796\nAlexander Hamilton Esqr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0018", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Maturin Livingston, [21 January 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Livingston, Maturin\n[New York, January 21, 1796]\nSir\nIt is not my wish to cavil nor can I as a reasonable man have any desire to pursue the question between us further than a due regard to my own delicacy may demand. But having weighed maturely the contents of your letter of yesterday I am obliged to think that it is not sufficiently explicit. The course of your own ideas and conduct hitherto must afford you a consciousness whether on the occasion alluded to there could have been an intention on your part to throw at me the imputation menti\u27e8oned\u27e9 in my first letter, and if there was any situation which may prevent a recollec\u27e8tion\u27e9 of what passed, it is still in your power at this time to satisfy what is due to delicacy by a disavowal of the exceptionable sentiment.\nI am Sir \u2003 Your humble ser,\nM Livingston Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0019", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Th\u00e9ophile Cazenove, 22 January 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Cazenove, Th\u00e9ophile\nNew York, January 22, 1796. \u201cUpon Sounding the members of the Legislature, I find that great difficulties will attend a bill so formed as to confirm absolutely & without limitation, existing titles, notwithstanding the alienisation of those who may have acquired Lands\u2014But that a proposition to confirm them, upon the condition of a transfer, within a term of 15 a 20 years, to Citizens, or of the acquirers becoming Citizens within that term, is listened to with more favour. If you think this will answer the purpose of your friends I will thank you to let me Know it as soon as may be.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0020", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Robert Morris, 22 January 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Morris, Robert\n[New York, January 22, 1796. On February 10, 1796, Morris wrote to Hamilton: \u201cI was preparing to answer your favour of the 22d ulto.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0021", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, 22 January 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Pinckney, Charles Cotesworth\nNew York January 22. 1796\nDear Sir\nGive me leave to recommend to your civilities Mr. Winstanly the bearer of this an English Gentleman who came to this City some years. After former generosity and carelessness of temper disposes of a little fortune, he has assumed the business of Landscape Painting and in pursuance of his plan visits your County, which also he is desirous through curiosity of seeing before he goes to Europe. He appears to have a warm passion for his present pursuit, in which he may be said to be self taught\u2014and what is more to his purpose, talent. With good opportunities I dare say he will arrive at eminence. In introducing him to you I give him a proof of my regard. With esteem & attachment\nI am Sir  Your obed serv\nA HamiltonJan 22. 1796\nCharles C. Pinckney Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0022", "content": "Title: Certificate on John Hanson by Anthony L. Bleecker, Peter S. Curentius, Alexander Hamilton, John Lamb, and Hercules Mulligan, [24 January 1796]\nFrom: Bleecker, Anthony L.,Curentius, Peter S.,Hamilton, Alexander,Lamb, John,Mulligan, Hercules\nTo: \n[New York, January 24, 1796]\nWe the Subscribers do certify that we were acquainted with Capt John Hanson deceased in his life time, and at an early period of the Revolution of the United States, and have satisfactory grounds to believe that he was firmly attached to the cause of the Revolution and to the liberties of this Country. We also certify, that we particularly recollect as eye Witnesses his conduct on a certain Evening in the year MDCLXXVI, when cannon were removed from the battery in the City under the fire of a British Man of War, on which occasion the said Capt Hanson was distinguished by his activity in forwarding the Removal. \nNew York January 24. 1796.\nA Hamilton\nJohn Lamb\nPeter S. Curtenius\nHercules Mulligan\nAnthony L. Bleecker", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0023", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jonathan Burrall, [25 January 1796]\nFrom: Burrall, Jonathan\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[New York, January 25, 1796]\nDr Sir,\nOur practice is to demand payment of Notes which fall due on the 4th. July, the day before, as in case of Sundays and Christmas days. This practice has prevailed in this Office and at the New York Bank from their first establishment.\nYours respectfully\nJon: BurrallJany 25th 1796.\nAlexr. Hamilton Esqr.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0024", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Th\u00e9ophile Cazenove, 25 January 1796\nFrom: Cazenove, Th\u00e9ophile\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhiladelphia, January 25, 1796. Acknowledges receipt of Hamilton\u2019s letter of January 22, 1796. Discusses legislation necessary for the ownership of land in New York State by aliens.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0025", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Charles Wilkes, [25 January 1796]\nFrom: Wilkes, Charles\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[New York] Monday Noon [January 25, 1796]\nSir\nIt has been the constant practice of the Bank, to demand payment on the 3d of July, for all notes which become payable on the 4th\u2014that day being, by the regulations of the Bank, a holiday.\nI am with great respect \u2003 Your obet Servt\nChas Wilkes\nAlexr Hamilton Esqe.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0026", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Rufus King, [29 January 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: King, Rufus\n[New York, January 29, 1796]\nMy Dear Sir\nIf the News Papers till truth it would appear that Massachusettes has anticipated New York. But it is intended by our friends in the Legislature to give some pointed discountenance to the propositions. It was expected that it would have been done to day, but by the divergings of some men who seek popularity with both sides, they have gotten into an unnecessary debate upon the propositions in detail, which will lose time; but in the result a handsome majority will do right.\nLaurance is hurt, & as far as I see not without some reason from particular circumstances, at being left out of the Direction of the Bank. It will be balm to his feelings to be put into the direction of the Office here & I believe it will be an improvement of the Direction to do it. I wish you would endeavour to bring it about. Speak to Bayard of our City and to Wharton of Philadelphia. This is a suggestion of my own for Laurance rather rides a high horse upon the occasion.\nYrs. truly\nA Hamilton\nRuffus King Esqr.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0027", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas FitzSimons, 4 February 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: FitzSimons, Thomas\n[New York, February 4, 1796. Hamilton endorsed a letter from FitzSimons dated December 17, 1795: \u201cAnsr. Feby. 4 179[6] agreeing & naming Mr. Lewis\u2014Referees to decide as Judges in Chancellory Law & Fact.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0028", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Morris, 10 February 1796\nFrom: Morris, Robert\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nAlexr Hamilton EsqrNew York\nPhilada. Feby 10. 1796\nDr Sir\nI was preparing to answer your favor of the 22d ulto when I was informed that you are to be here on the 17th of this month which I am very glad of as it will give me the Oppy of adjusting the business personally & I hope to your Satisfaction.\nI am most truly \u2003 Yrs\nRM", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0029", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 13 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhila. 13th. Feby. 1796\nMy dear Sir,\nIn the moment I was closing & dispatching my letters to the Post Office, I learnt from the Attorney General of the U.S. that you would be here on the 17th. My mind being continually uneasy on Acct. of Young Fayette, I cannot but wish (if this letter should reach you in time, and no reasons stronger than what have occurred against it) that you would request him, and his Tuter, to come on to this place on a visit; without avowing, or making a mystery of the object\u2014Leaving the rest to some after decision. In haste. Yours always & most\nAffectionately\nGo: Washington\nColo Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0030", "content": "Title: Draft on the Bank of the United States, [18 February 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: \n[Philadelphia, February 18, 1796]\nCashier of The Bank of The United StatesDollars 46\nPay to Mr. Bicknel or bearer Forty six Dollars\nPhiladelphia Feb. 18. 1796Alexander Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0031", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Angelica Church, [19 February 1796]\nFrom: Church, Angelica\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[London, February 19, 1796]\nMy dear Brother\nYour letters of January the 13th are received but no plan of the lot, and no description of the house. I am sensible how much I trouble I give you, but you will have the goodness to excuse it, when you know that it proceeded from a persuasion that I was asking from one who promised me his love and attention if I returned to America; If friendship is only a name, for what do I exchange ease and taste, by going to the New World, where politics excludes all society, and agreeable intercourse, where all that is not given to Fame seems to be regretted and forgotten. My Love to Betsey I do not write by this Ship but will by Monday.\nI believe Mr. Marshall has made no progress in settling the affairs of your Honorable friend.\nAdieu my dear and naughty Brother, it will be impossible for me to Charter a Vessel for how can I bring out furniture when I do not know the number of rooms my house contains. What an agreeable amiable fellow, has Jay\u2019s Little treaty turned into a defender of what he never would himself have deigned to submit to. Voila mon sentiment, changes le si vous veules.\nAdieu", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0032", "content": "Title: Opinion on the Claim of Oliver Pollock, [27 February 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: \n[Philadelphia, February 27, 1796]\nAt the request of Mr. Pollock I certify that I have a distinct recollection that in the course of conversations with him, respecting his pecuniary claims on the United States, he expressed the idea of his having further claims on the United States beyond those admitted and liquidated; and that I have also some recollection, but indistinct and imperfect, that when a warrant came to be issued for the balance due to him, he objected to the wording of it, as amounting to a declaration that the sum to be paid was to be in full of all demands; and that in consequence of his representation, either words were added to the first warrant, or a new one was made out, altered in conformity to the within copy, that is to say, so as to import in the warrant a full satisfaction for claims liquidated and credited only.\nAlexander Hamilton,February 27, 1796.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0034", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Jay, 4 March 1796\nFrom: Jay, John\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nNew York 4th. March 1796.\nSir\nIn pursuance of a concurrent Resolution of the two Houses of the Legislature of the third and fourth instant I desire You as a Counsellor at Law to defend in behalf of this State a certain Suit brought against Lewis Cornwall by or in behalf of Alexander Colden for the Recovery of a Farm sold to the said Lewis by the Commissioners of Forfeitures for the Southern District.\nYou will herewith receive a Copy of the said Resolution, and of the Petition of Lewis Cornwall which gave Occasion to it.\nI have the Honor to be \u2003 Sir \u2003 Your Most Ob. & H\u2019ble Servt.\nJohn Jay.\nAlexander Hamilton Esqr.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0035", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Gouverneur Morris, 4 March 1796\nFrom: Morris, Gouverneur\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nLondon 4 March 1796\nMy dear Hamilton\nI have just now written to the President to communicate some Intelligence lately receiv\u2019d from Paris. This I have done in Abstract but my Correspondent has written to me as follows: \u201cThe Government here are highly displeas\u2019d with ours. You may easily guess the Reason. It is come to a very serious State. A Fleet is to be sent to our Shore with a new minister. A definitive Answer must be given in fifteen Days. The Government are to declare to us within a few Days that our Treaty with them is annulled. This will put Mr. Munroe in a cruel Dilemma. He is already much displeas\u2019d and a War will probably be the Consequence. The British will be glad of this. Perhaps we may have here a Revolution from the Industry \u27e8of th\u27e9e Jacobins. The Finances are worse than ever they cannot stand \u27e8much longer.\u201d\u27e9 This letter is dated in Paris the 15th. \u27e8of la\u27e9st Month. You may be sure by my communicating this to you that I have Confidence in the Source from whence it is derived. Now my dear Friend I have barely stated to the President the Intention as to the new Minister. His late Declaration as to the existing french Government has prevented me from saying a Word to him on a Subject where he has I think committed himself. To you I will declare my Conviction that this Government cannot stand whether the Monarchy be restor\u2019d or not. The People in general are averse to it. The Adherents to the royal Cause grow daily more numerous. If I knew decidedly the Steps to be taken in Aid of them I could tell you almost with Certainty whether they would be successful for the State of that Country now presents sufficient Data on which to reason soundly. I need not say to you that if the french Rulers persist in the Measures which are above mentioned, America will probably be obligd to take Part in the War. On a former Occasion when they talk\u27e8ed somewhat\u27e9 highly I told them that they could certainly force us into the Contest but as certainly it would be against them, let the Predelections in their Favor be ever so great, because it would be Madness in us to risque our Commerce against the navy of the world. That to join them would do them no Good and must do us much Evil. That Time they beleived me. What Representations Mr. Munroe may make I cannot pretend to divine and much less the Effect of them. Supposing however that you should be driven to make this Election you will naturally weigh not only the naval Force but also the financial Resources of the opposed Powers. The noisy Folks with you will undoubtedly be loud on our Obligations to France and on the long List of our Grievances from England. As to the former I think we should always seek to perform Acts of Kindness towards those who at the Bidding of their Prince s\u27e8tept forw\u27e9ard to fight our Battles. Nor would I ever permit a frigid Reasoning on political motives to damp those Effusions of Sentiment which are as laudable in a nation as they are decorous to a private Citizen. But would it be kind to support that Power which now tyrannizes over France and reduces her Inhabitants to unheard of Misery? Would it be grateful to mix with, much less to league with those whose Hands are yet red with the Blood of him who was our real Protector? Would it be decent? As to the Conduct of Britain towards us, altho I see as clearly as others the Grounds which we have to complain and can readily account for the Resentments which have been excited, yet I give due Weight to the Causes by which that Conduct was instigated: and if in some Cases I find it unjustifiable, I cannot consider it as in all Cases inexcusable. Provided therefore that our Honor be saved, I am so far thinking that the Injuries we have endured should become the source of inextinguishable Hatred and perpetual War that I would rather seek in future Amity and good Offices the fair Motive for consigning them to utter Oblivion. I have not my dear Hamilton any such View of our present political Machinery as to judge what may be the Effect of lofty Menace. I apprehend that some feeble Counsels will be given: Whether they will be receivd and pursued you best know and will doubtless act accordingly. What I have to ask is that you would put yourself in the Way of being consulted. I mean locally, for should you be at a Distance the Time may be too short for Communication.\nIt is possible after all that the Demand may turn on a single Point viz: that we shall no longer pretend to claim an Exemption from Seizure for those Goods of an Enemy [which may be found in our Ships. If so the Case is plain and easy. We slide back to the Law of Nations which it is our Interest to preserve unimpeached. Probably we shall be called on for our Guarantee of St Domingo and here many questions will arise in the Course of which we shall see perhaps some wise and virtuous Slave Masters contending for the propriety of general emancipation with all its consequent Train of Crimes. It appears certain to me that the french Directory would not risque high Language to us if they had not receiv\u2019d previous Assurances that the People would force our Government to sacrifice the national Interest. Those Assurances were I presume given and the present Plan propos\u2019d while victory seem\u2019d yet bound to the french Standards; and while you receiv\u2019d official Assurances of the prosperous State of their internal Affairs. The Scene is now not only chang\u2019d but almost revers\u2019d, and I presume that the Language if not the Conduct of certain Persons will experience a similar Change. Adieu I am forc\u2019d to conclude thus abruptly. You know I am always and truly yours\u2014]\nAlexander Hamilton Esqr.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0036", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Robert Morris, 5 March 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Morris, Robert\n[New York, March 5, 1796. On March 6, 1796, Morris wrote to Hamilton: \u201cI am glad to see by your line of yesterday.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0037", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Morris, 6 March 1796\nFrom: Morris, Robert\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nAlexander Hamilton Esqre N York\nPhila 6 March 1796\nDear Sir\nI am glad to see by your line of yesterday that you had got safe home. I am at present in treaty for the Sale of some Lands of Pennsa & perhaps some of the Tracts I proposed to you may be included in the sale. If they are, others shall be Substituted & you may rely that I will not lose a day unnecessarily in preparing & transmitting the Mortgages, but instead of putting the whole into one Mortgage I think it will be best to put one parcel of contiguous Tracts into one Mortgage & another in another & so on\u2014then if any one of those Parcels should be sold, I can pay or exchange the Security without affecting the others.\nYou omitted to Return the Copy of Mr Greenleafs Deed for the Washington Lotts. The Original is gone to be recorded & I have no other Copy, therefore I request you to send it to me. I am very busy but you shall soon hear again from\nYrs\nRM", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0038-0002", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [7 March 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n[New York, March 7, 1796]\nSir,\nI found Young La Fayette here and delivered him your Letter which much relieved him. I fancy you will see him on the first day of April.\nMr. Livingston\u2019s motion in the House of Representatives, concerning the production of papers has attracted much attention. The opinion of those who think here is, that if the motion succeeds, it ought not to be complied with. Besides that in a matter of such a nature the production of the papers cannot fail to start [a] new and unpleasant Game\u2014it will be fatal to the Negotiating Power of the Government if it is to be a matter of course for a call of either House of Congress to bring forth all the communication however confidential.\nIt seems to me that something like the following answer by the President will be advisable.\n\u201cA right in the House of Representatives, to demand and have as a matter of course, and without specification of any object all communications respecting a negotiation with a foreign power cannot be admitted without danger of much inconvenience. A discretion in the Executive Department how far and where to comply in such cases is essential to the due conduct of foreign negotiations and is essential to preserve the limits between the Legislative and Executive Departments. The present call is altogether indefinite and without any declared purpose. The Executive has no cases on which to judge of the propriety of a compliance with it and cannot therefore without forming a very dangerous precedent comply.\nIt does not occur that the view of the papers asked for can be relative to any purpose of the competency of the House of Representatives but that of an impeachment. In every case of a foreign Treaty the grounds for an impeachment must primarily be deduced from the nature of the Instrument itself and from nothing extrinsic. If at any time a Treaty should present such grounds and it shall have been so pronounced by the House of Representatives and a further inquiry shall be necessary to ascertain the culpable person, there being then a declared and ascertained object the President would attend with due respect to any application for necessary information.\u201d\nThis is but a hasty and crude outline of what has struck me as an eligible course. For while a too easy compliance will be mischievous, a too peremptory and unqualified refusal might be liable to just criticism.\nMost Respectfully & Affectionately \u2003 I have the honor to be \u2003 Sir your Obed sert\nA Hamilton\nThe President of the U. States.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0040", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Robert Morris, 8 March 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Morris, Robert\n[New York, March 8, 1796. On March 12, 1796, Morris wrote to Hamilton and referred to \u201cyour letters of the 10th & 8th Inst.\u201d Letter of March 8 not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0041", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Greene, 9 March 1796\nFrom: Greene, William\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nNew York, March 9, 1796. States his determination to abide by whatever opinion Hamilton \u201cshould form\u201d in \u201cthe case of Messr. John Calogan & Sons.\u201d Discusses his dispute with the firm of Shaw and Randall over a cargo of wine and the writ issued against him for \u00a310,000 damages.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0043", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Jay, 10 March 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Jay, John\nNew York March 10. 1796\nSir\nI had the honor duely to receive Your Excellency\u2019s letter of the 4th instant. I did not immediately answer it from an indistinct and confused recollection that a state of things existed in reference to the opposite party which did not permit my being concerned for the State. It now appears that I was not mistaken, and that I cannot with propriety execute Your Excellency\u2019s desire.\nWith perfect respect I have the honor to be Sir \u2003 Yr. very obed servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0044", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Robert Morris, 10 March 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Morris, Robert\n[New York, March 10, 1796. On March 12, 1796, Morris wrote to Hamilton and referred to \u201cyour letters of the 10th and 8th Inst.\u201d Letter of March 10 not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0046", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Morris, 12 March 1796\nFrom: Morris, Robert\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nAlexander Hamilton Esqre\nPhila 12 March 1796\ndear Sir\nI am concerned to perceive by your letters of the 10th & 8th Inst a degree of solicitude which I did not expect or intend to excite. You will recollect that it was a point conceded by you that even after the Mortgage I might sell & change the Security for one equally Satisfactory, and as I was in Treaty for a Sale, I thought a delay untill that Treaty finished one way or the other was not of Consequence Sufficient to create uneasiness. I also intended to have the Mortgages drawn & sent to you, but as you prefer having a list of the Lands & their Valuation I will send you the same by Mondays Mail & in the mean time I am as ever\nYours\nRM", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0047", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Morris, 14 March 1796\nFrom: Morris, Robert\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nAlexander Hamilton Esqre\nPhila 14 March 1796\nDear Sir\nAgreeably to my promise I enclose herewith a List of the Lands which I propose to mortgage to you as Security for the debt due to Mr Church and I think the value more than Sufficient. For some of these Lands the Patents are issued, for some they are not issued, but the Patents are only considered as Evidence of Title, because when Warrants of Survey are granted the money is paid & a return of the Survey upon the Warrants vests the absolute Fee Simple Title in the Warantee who conveys by Deed Poll to whom he pleases. These Deeds Poll are commonly assigned from one person to another & he that holds them is always entitled to the Land and has the right to take out the patents when he pleases and it is only done when he pleases, so that many of the Oldest Estates in Pennsylvania are held to this day without having taken out the Patents. In all decisions in the Courts of Law such Titles have been recognized and confirmed. I have mentioned this matter that you may know every thing respecting the business and at the same time that every Objection may be Removed. I have given Orders for taking out the Patents which is a work of some time owing to the quantity of Business in the Land Office and the slow mode of doing it. In your last letter you supposed that Lands in the preferable Situations might be sold to the Injury or impairing of the Security offered. This was never intended by me, because if any of the Tracks proposed to be mortgaged should be sold either before or after the mortgage takes effect my intention is to substitute other property to your entire Satisfaction otherwise I could not think of making such sales. I believe the Lands standing in my name in the state of new york near Chemung or near the Pennsa Line as marked on DeWitts New Map are now worth about 2 of York Curry P Acre, and I expect soon to be in a Situation to sell the whole, that is about 38000 Acres. If you incline to buy Lands for Mr Church perhaps we may agree for those or some others, so as to discharge this debt with advantage to Mr Church, & in the mean time I am ready to execute the Mortgage as soon as you please.\nI am Dr Sir Yrs &c.\nRM", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0048", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Rufus King, 16 March 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: King, Rufus\nNew York March 16. 1796\nMy Dr. Sir\nI thank you for letter of the . My opinion on the resolution when it first appeared was that the President should answer in substance as follows. (viz)\n\u201cThat it could not be admitted as a right of course in the House of Representatives to call for & have papers in the Executive department essentially those relating to foreign negociations which frequently embrace confidential matters. That under all the circumstances & upon so indefinite a call without any declared specific object he did not think it proper nor consistent with what he owed to a due separation of the respective Powers to comply with the call. That if in the course of the proceedings of the House a question of their competency should arise for which any of the papers in question might be necessary an application made on that ground would be considered with proper respect &c.\u201d\nBut after what has taken place in the discussion, if it can with propriety be got in as to form, I think a stand ought to be made by the President against the usurpation. The following propositions comprise an obvious ground\nI \u2003 The constitution empowers the President with the Senate to make Treaties.\nII \u2003 A treaty is a perfected contract between two nations obligatory on both.\nII \u2003 That cannot be a perfected contract or Treaty to the validity of which the concurrence of any other power in the state is constitutionally necessary. Again\u2014\nIII \u2003 The Constitution says a Treaty is a law.\nIV \u2003 A law is an obligatory rule of action prescribed by the competent authority. But\nV \u2003 That cannot be such a rule of Action or a law to the validity of which the assent of any other power is requisite. Again\nVI \u2003 The object of the Legislative Power is to prescribe a rule of Action for our own Nation which includes foreigners coming among us.\nVII \u2003 The object of the Treaty Power is by agreement to settle a rule of Action between two Nations binding on both.\nVIII. \u2003 These objects are essentially different and in a constitutional sense cannot interfere.\nIX \u2003 The Treaty Power binding the Will of the nation must within its constitutional limits be paramount to the Legislative power which is that Will; or at least the last law being a Treaty must repeal an antecedent contradictory law. And\nX \u2003 If the Legislative power is competent to repeal this law by a subsequent law\u2014this must be the whole legislative power, by a solemn act in the forms of the Constitution, not one branch of the legislative power by disobeying the law.\nXI \u2003 The foregoing construction reconciles the two powers and assigns them distinguishable sp[h]eres of Action. While\nXIII \u2003 The other construction, that claiming that a right of assent is sanction for the House of Representatives, destroys the Treaty making Power & negatives two Propositions in the Constitution to wit I that The President with the Senate are competent to make Treaties. II That a Treaty is a Law.\nOn these grounds with the Presidents name a bulwark not to be shaken is erected. The propositions amount in my judgment to irresistable demonstration.\nYrs.\nA HamiltonMarch 16. 1796", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0049", "content": "Title: Receipt from Morgan Lewis, [18 March 1796]\nFrom: Lewis, Morgan\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[New York, March 18, 1796]\nReceived New York March 18th 1796 of Alexander Hamilton [Four thousand two hundred & fifty] Dollars in full for the consideration money of a lot and part of a lot of Ground adjoining thereto situate on the Broadway and Marketfield Street in the City of New York as particularly described in a certain indenture bearing date the first day of May MDCCXCIII made between Carlisle Pollock William Rogers and Samuel Corp of the one part and myself of the other part and according to a deed of Partition for ascertaining the said Part of a lot bearing date the twenty second of November MDCCXCIII made between Isaac Bronson and myself\u2014and I promise forthwith to make and deliver to the said Alexander Hamilton a good and sufficient deed in the Law for conveying and assuring to him his heirs and assigns the lot and part of a lot aforesaid with a Covenant of General Warranty for the same according to the metes and bounds in the said deed specified.\nMorn: Lewis.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0050", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Barent Bleecker, 20 March 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Bleecker, Barent\nNew York March 20. 1796\nSir\nI presume you have been informed that pursuant to the power given to me by yourself and the other parties concerned, I purchased at Auction the lands in Cosbys Manor claimed by the Trustees of the Ringwood Iron Company. These lands being in the whole 6761 acres cost \u00a32422.13.10 payable \u00bc part down one other \u00bc on the first Tuesday of next month (April) one other \u00bc on the First Tuesday of October next and the remaining \u00bc on the first Tuesday of April 1797. The first installment I have paid\u2014and I have therefore to request that you will without delay forward to me your \u00bc of that installment and also of the second which will become payable on the 5th of next Month. To preserve the right we have acquired punctuality is essential.\nWith esteem I am \u2003 Sir \u2003 Your obedt servant\nAlex Hamilton\nThe sum you are to forward is \u00a3302.18.5 \u00bd\nBarent Bleecker EsquireAlbany", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0051", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Timothy Pickering, 22 March 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nDepartment of State March 22. 1796.\nDear Sir\nThe President is anxious to ascertain whether the gentlemen he has thought of for Commissioners under the 6th & 7th articles of the British treaty will accept of those employments. He has concluded to appoint Egbert Benson Esqr. one of the Commissioners for executing the 6th article, relative to the debts owing to British subjects\u2014if he will accept of the employment. He is held in such high estimation for his abilities & integrity, as to render it extremely desirable that the appointment might meet his acceptance. The compensation will not be less than \u00a31000. sterling a year; & it may rise to \u00a31500: we do not yet know what agreement will be made on this head, under the 8th article of the treaty. The continuance of the employment you and he can judge of better than I. Whether he can hold his present office of Judge on the New-York Bench and the office of commissioner, at the same time, you and he can also determine. But should his acceptance of the latter employment necessarily vacate his seat on that bench, it would naturally conduct him to one more important\u2014in the supreme court of the U.States.\nI forbear to intimate any other considerations to induce Mr. Benson\u2019s acceptance of the proposed office: you will more accurately estimate every motive of expedience and public utility which can properly influence his decision.\nI hope Judge Benson is in New-York that his immediate determination may be given; if not, you will be so obliging as to write to him for the purpose. In the mean time the President will be obliged by your acknowledging the receipt of this letter, and embracing the earliest moment to communicate Judge Benson\u2019s decision.\nI am with sincere respect & esteem \u2003 yours\nTimothy Pickering\nColo. Hamilton.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0052", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 22 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia, March 22, 1796. On March 24, 1796, Hamilton wrote to Washington: \u201cI had the honor to receive yesterday your letter of the 22.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0053", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 24 March 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\nNew York March 24 1796\nSir\nI had the honor to receive yesterday your letter of the 22. The course you suggest has some obvious advantages & merits careful consideration. I am not however without fears that there are things in the instructions to Mr. Jay which good policy, considering the matter externally as well as internally, would render it inexpedient to communicate. This I shall ascertain to day. A middle course is under consideration\u2014that of not communicating the papers to the house but of declaring that the Secretary of State is directed to permit them to be read by the members individually. But this is liable to a great part of the objections which militate against a full public disclosure. I throw it out however here that you may be thinking of it, if it has not before occurred. In the course of this day I shall endeavour to concenter my ideas & prepare something\u2014the premisses of which may be in any event proper, admitti\u27e8ng\u27e9 of the conclusion being modified & adapted to your eventual determination.\nRespectfully & Affecty \u2003 Sir \u2003 Yr Obed ser\nA Hamilton\nThe President", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0054", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 26 March 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n[New York] March 26 1796\nSir\nI perceived by the News Paper that the resolution has been carried. I have not been idle as far a\u27e8s\u27e9 my situation would permit but \u27e8it\u27e9 will not be in my power as I had hoped to send you what I am preparing by this day\u2019s Post. The next will carry it. It does not however appear necessary that the Executive should be in a hurry.\nThe final result in my mind, for reasons I shal\u27e8l\u27e9 submit in my next is that the Papers ought all to be refused. I am persuade\u27e8d\u27e9 the Communication of the ins\u27e8tructions\u27e9 in particular would do ha\u27e8rm\u27e9 to The President & to the Govern\u27e8ment\u27e9.\nRespecty & Affecty", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0055", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 28 March 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\nSir\nI am mortified at not being able to send you by this post a certain draft. But the opinion that reasons ought to be given & pretty fully has extended it to considerable length & a desire to make it accurate as to idea & expression keeps it still upon the anvil. But it is so far prepared that I can assure it by tomorrow\u2019s Post. Delay is always unpleasant. But the case is delicate & important enough to justify it.\nI mentioned as my opinion that the instruction to Mr. Jay if published would do harm. The truth unfortunately is that it is in general a crude mass\u2014which will do no credit to the administration. This was my impression of it at the time\u2014but the delicacy of attempting too much reformation in the work of another head of Department, the hurry of the moment, & a great Confidence in the person to be sent prevented my attempting that reformation.\nThere are several particular points in it which would have a very ill effect to be published.\nI \u2003 There is a part which seems to admit the idea that an adjustment might be made respecting the spoliations which should leave that matter finally to the ordinary course of the British Courts. This is obscurely & ambiguously expressed but the least colour for such a construction would give occasion for infinite clamour.\nII \u2003 The negotiator is expressly instructed to accede to the intire abolition of alienism as to inheritances of land. You have seen what clamour has been made about the moderate modification of this idea in the Treaty & can thence judge what a load would fall on this part of the instruction.\nIII \u2003 He is instructed to enter into an article against the employment of Privateers in War. This is manifestly against the policy of a Country which has no navy in a Treaty with a Country which has a large navy. For it is chiefly by privateers that we could annoy the trade of Great Britain. Some would consider this as a philosophic whim; others as an intentional sacrifice of the interests of this Country to G B.\nIV \u2003 There are several parts which hold up the disreputable & disorganising idea of not being able to restrain our own Citizens.\nV \u2003 There are parts which though proper to our own Agent, the publication of which would be a violation of decorum towards G Britain\u2014after an amicable termination of the affair & offensive because contrary to the rules of friendly & respectful procedure.\nVI \u2003 The instructions have too little point (in the spirit of the framer who was in the habit of saying much & saying little) & would be censured as altogether deficient in firmness & spirit.\nOn the whole I have no doubt that the publication of these instructions would do harm to the Executive & to the character & interest of the Government.\nIf the President concludes to send papers\u2014they ought only to be the Commissions & Mr. Jay\u2019s correspondence; saying that these are all, that it appears to him for the public interest to send.\nBut he may be then prepared for as much clamour as if he sent none. It would be said that what was done shewed that the principle had not been the obstacle & that the instructions were witheld because they would not bear the light. Or at most only that part of the instruction should go which begins at these words. \u201c4 This enumeration presents generally the objects which it is desireable to comprise in a Commercial Treaty &c.\u201d to the end of the instructions.\nBut after the fullest reflection I have been able to give the subject (though I perceive serious dangers & inconveniencies in the course) I entertain a final opinion that it will be best, after the usurpation attempted by the house of Representatives, to send none & to resist in totality.\nAffectly & respecy \u2003 Yr Obed ser\nA Hamilton\nThe President", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0056-0001", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 29 March [1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n[New York] March 29 [1796]\nSir\nI wish the inclosed could have been sent in a more perfect State. But it was impossible. I hope however it can be made out & may be useful.\nIt required more time to say all that was proper in a more condensed form.\nIn considering the course to be pursued by the President it may be well he should be reminded that the same description of men who call for the papers have heretofore maintained that they were not bound by any communication in confidence but were free afterwards to do as they pleased with papers sent them.\nRespect & Aff\nA Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0056-0002", "content": "Title: Enclosure: [Draft of a Response to Concerns about the Jay Treaty], [29 March 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\nGentlemen\nI have received your resolution  and have considered it with the attention always due to a request of the House of Representatives. I feel a consciousness (not contradicted I trust by any part of my conduct) of a sincere disposition to respect the rights privileges and authorities of Congress collectively and in its separate branches\u2014to pay just deference to their opinions and wishes\u2014to avoid intrusion on their province\u2014to communicate freely information pertinent to the subjects of their deliberation. But this disposition, keeping steadily in view the public good, must likewise be limited and directed by the duty, incumbent upon us all, of preserving inviolate the constitutional boundary between the several departments of the Government: a duty enjoined by the very nature of a constitution which defines and distributes the powers delegated among different dipositories, enforced by the solemn sanction of an oath, and only to be fulfilled by a regard no less scrupulous for the rights of the Executive than for those of every other Department.\nWhen I communicated to the House of Representatives the Treaty lately made with Great Britain, I did not transmit the papers respecting its negotiation, for reasons which appeared to me decisive.\nIt is contrary to the general practice of Governments to promulge the intermediate transactions of a foreign negotiation without weighty and special reasons. The motives for great delicacy and reserve on this point are powerful. There may be situations of a Country, in which particular occurrences of a negotiation, though conducted with the best views to its interest and even to a satisfactory issue, if immediately disclosed, might tend to embarrassment and mischief in the interior affairs of that Country. Confidential discussions and overtures are inseparable from the nature of certain negotiations and frequently occur in others\u2014essays are occasionally made by one party to discover the views of another in reference to collateral objects\u2014motives are sometimes assigned for what is yielded by one party to another: which, if made public, might kindle the resentment or jealousy of other powers, or might raise in them pretensions not expedient to be gratified. Hence it is a rule of mutual convenience and security among nations that neither shall without adequate cause and proper reserves promulge the details of a Negotiation between them: otherwise one party might be injured by the disclosures of the other, and sometimes without being aware of the injury likely to be done.\nConsequently, The general neglect of this rule in the practice of a Government would naturally tend to destroy that confidence in its prudence and delicacy\u2014that freedom of communication with it; which are so important in the intercourses between Nation and Nation, towards the accommodation of mutual differences, and the adjustment of mutual interests.\nNeither would it be likely to promote the advantage of a Nation, that the Agents of a foreign Government, with which it was at any time in Treaty, should act under the apprehension that every expression, every step of theirs would presently be exposed, by the promulgation of the other party, to the criticism of their political adversaries at home. The disposition to a liberal and perhaps for that very reason a wise policy in them might be checked by the reflection that it might afterwards appear from the disclosures on the other side, that they had not made as good bargains as they might have made. And while they might be stimulated by this to extraordinary effort and perseverance; maxims of greater secrecy and reserve in their Cabinet would leave their competitors in the negotiation without the same motive to exertion. These having nothing to fear from the indiscretion of the opposite Government would only have to manage with caution their communications to their own. The consequences of such a state of things would naturally be an increase of obstacles to the favourable close of a negotiation, and the probability of worse bargains for the Nation, in the habit of giving indiscreet publicity to its proceedings.\nThe Agents of such a Nation, themselves, would have strong inducements to extreme reserve in their communications with their own government; lest parts of their conduct might subject them in other quarters to unfriendly and uncandid constructions\u2014which might so narrow the information they gave as scarcely to afford sufficient light either with regard to the fitness of their own course of proceeding or the true state and prospects of the negotiation with which they were charged.\nAnd thus in different ways the channels of information to a Government might be materially obstructed by the impolitic practice of too free disclosure in regard to its foreign negotiations.\nMoreover\u2014It is not uncommon for the instructions to negotiating Agents, especially where differences are to be settled, to contain observations on the views and motives of the other party, which after an amicable termination of the business, it would be contrary to decorum, unfriendly and offensive, to make public. Such instructions also frequently manifest views, which, if disclosed, might renew sources of jealousy and ill will which a Treaty had extinguished\u2014might exhibit eventual plans of proceeding which had better remain unknown for future emergencies, & might even furnish occasion for suspicion, and pretext for discontent, to other powers. And, in general, where more had been obtained by a Treaty than the ultimata prescribed to the negotiation, it would be inexpedient to publish those ultimata: Since, among other ill effects, the publication of them might prejudice the interest of the Country in future negotiations with the same or with different powers.\nThese reasons explain the grounds of a prevailing rule of Conduct among prudent Governments, (viz) not to promulge without weighty cause nor without due reserves the particulars of a foreign negotiation. It so happens indeed that many of them have no immediate application to the case of the present Treaty. And it would be unadviseable to discriminate here between such as may and such as may not so apply. But it would be very extraordinary, situated as the UStates were in relation to Great Britain, at the commencement of the negotiation if some of them did not operate against a full disclosure of the papers, in which it is recorded.\nConnected with these general reasons against the transmission of the papers with the Treaty, it was proper to consider if there were any special reasons which recommended in the particular case a departure from the rule, and especially whether there was any purpose to which the house of Representatives is constitutionally competent, which might be elucidated by those papers.\nThis involved a consideration of the nature of the constitutional agency of that house, in regard to Treaties.\nThe Constitution of the U States empowers the President with the advice and consent of the Senate two thirds concurring to \u201cMake Treaties.\u201d It no where professes to authorise the House of Representatives, or any other branch of the Government, to partake with the President and Senate in the making of Treaties. The whole Power of making Treaties is therefore by the terms of the Constitution vested in the President and Senate.\nTo make a Treaty, as applied to Nations, is to conclude a contract between them obligatory on their faith. But that cannot be an (obligatory) contract, to the validity and obligation of which the assent of another power in the state is constitutionally necessary.\nAgain: The Constitution declares that a Treaty made under the authority of the U States shall be a supreme law of the land\u2014let it be said \u201ca law.\u201d A law is an obligatory rule of action prescribed by the competent authority: But that cannot be an obligatory rule of action, or a law, to the validity and obligation of which the assent of another power in the state is constitutionally necessary.\nHence, a discretionary right in the House of Representatives, to assent or not to a Treaty, or what is equivalent to execute it or not, would negative these two important propositions of our constitution I \u2003 That the President and Senate shall have power to make Treaties II \u2003 That a Treaty made by them shall be a law\u2014and in the room of them would establish this proposition \u201cThat the power of making Treaties resides in the President, Senate and House of Representatives.\u201d For whatever coloring may be given a right of discretionary assent to a contract is in substance a right to participate in the making of it.\nIs there any thing in the constitution which by necessary implication changes the force of the express terms that regulate the deposit of the Power to make Treaties?\nIf there is, it must be found in those clauses which regulate the deposit of the Legislative Power. Here two questions arise\u2014\nI \u2003 Can the Power of Treaty reach and embrace objects upon which the legislative power is authorised to act, as the regulation of Commerce, the defining of piracy &c or are these objects virtually excepted out of the operation of that power?\nII \u2003 If it can reach and embrace those objects, is there any principle which as to them gives to Congress or more properly the House of Representatives, a discretionary right of assent or dissent?\nThe affirmative of the first question is supported by these considerations.\nI \u2003 The words which establish the Power of Treaty are manifestly broad enough to comprehend all Treaties.\nII \u2003 It is a reasonable presumption, that they were meant to extend to all treaties usual among nations, and so to be commensurate with the variety of exigencies and objects of intercourse which occur between nation and nation; in other words that they were meant to enable the Organ of the Power to manage with efficacy the external affairs of the Country in all cases in which they must depend upon compact with another nation.\nIII \u2003 The Treaties usual among nations are principally those of Peace, Alliance and Commerce. It is the office of Treaties of peace to establish the cessation of hostilities and the conditions of it, including frequently indemnifications, sometimes pecuniary ones. It is the office of Treaties of alliance to establish cases in which nations shall succour each other in war stipulating a union of forces, the furnishing of troops, ships of war, pecuniary and other aids. It is the office of Treaties of Commerce to establish rules and conditions according to which nations shall trade with each other, regulating as far as they go the external commerce of the nations in Treaty\u2014whence it is evident that Treaties naturally bear in different ways upon many of the most important objects, upon which the legislative power is authorised to act, as the appropriation of money, the raising of armies, the equipment of fleets, the declaring of war, the regulation of Trade. But\nIV \u2003 This is no objection to the Power of Treaty having a capacity to embrace those objects \u2003 1 \u2003 Because that latitude is essential to the great ends for which the Power is instituted \u2003 2 \u2003 Because unless the Power of Treaty can embrace objects upon which the legislative power may also act, it is essentially nugatory\u2014often inadequate to mere treaties of Peace\u2014always inadequate to Treaties of Alliance or Commerce 3 Because it is the office of the legislative power to establish separate rules of action for the nation of which it is\u2014 its arm being too short to reach a single case in which a common obligatory rule of action for two nations is to be established IV Because inasmuch as a common rule of action, for independent nations can only be established by compact, it necessarily is of the office of the Power of Treaty to effect its establishment V Because the power of legislation being unable to effect what the power of Treaty must effect, it is unreasonable to suppose that the former was intended to exclude the action of the latter VI Because on the other hand there is no incongruity in the supposition that the Power of Treaty, in establishing a joint rule of action with another nation, may act upon the same subject which the Legislative Power may act upon, in establishing a separate rule of action for one nation VII Because it is a common case for the different powers of Government to act upon the same subject within different spheres and in different modes. Thus the legislative power lays and provides for the collection of a particular tax\u2014the Executive Power collects the tax and brings it into the Treasury. So the power of Treaty may stipulate pecuniary indemnification for an injury and the Legislative power may execute the stipulation by providing & designating the fund out of which the indemnification shall be made. As in the first case the Executive Power is auxiliary to the Legislative, so in the last legislative Power is auxiliary to the Power of Treaty. VIII Because this doctrine leads to no collision of powers, inasmuch as the stipulations of a Treaty may reasonably be considered as restraints upon the legislative discretion. Those stipulations operate by pledging the faith of a nation and restricting its will by the force of moral obligation, and it is a fundamental principle of social right that the will of a nation as well as that of an individual may be bound by the moral obligation of a contract. IX Because the organ of the Power of Treaty is as truly the Organ of the Will of a Nation as that of its legislative Power; and there is no incongruity in the supposition, that the will of a Nation, acting through one organ, may be bound by the pledge of its faith through another Organ. From these different views of the subject it results, that the position that the Power of Legislation, acting in one sphere, and the power of Treaty, acting in another sphere, may embrace in their action the same objects, involves no interference of constitutional Powers; and of course that the latter may reach and comprehend objects which the former is authorised to act upon; which it is necessary to suppose it does do since the contrary supposition would essentially destroy the Power of Treaty: whereas the stipulations of Treaties being only particular exceptions to the discretion of the Legislative Power, this power will always still have a wide field of action beyond and out of the exceptions.\nThe latitude of the Power of Treaty granted by analogous terms in the articles of our late confederation as practiced upon for years in treaties with several foreign Powers and acquiesced in by the Governments and citizens of these states, is an unequivocal comment upon the meaning of the provision in our present constitution and a conclusive evidence of the sense in which it was understood by those who planned and those who adopted the Constitution\u2014supporting fully the foregoing construction of the Power. That latitude cannot be indebted to the circumstance of all the power granted by the confederation being in one body\u2014for that body had legislative power in but very few cases & none in some very important cases embraced by its treaties. The examples of past practice under our present Government without the least question of its propriety afford a further corroboration of the intended & accepted sense of the Constitutional instrument.\nThe negative of the second question above stated is supported by these considerations.\nI \u2003 A discretionary right of assent in the House of Representatives (as before shewn) would contradict the two important propositions of the Constitution\u2014That the President with the Senate shall have power to make Treaties\u2014That the Treaties so made shall be laws.\nII \u2003 It supposes the House of Representatives at liberty to contravene the faith of the Nation engaged in a Treaty made by the declared constitutional Agents of the Nation for that purpose\u2014and thus implies the contradiction that a Nation may rightfully pledge its faith through one organ, and without any change of circumstances to dissolve the obligation may revoke the pledge through another organ.\nIII \u2003 The obvious import of the terms which grant the Power of Treaty can only be controuled, if at all, by some manifest necessary implication in favour of the discretionary right which has been mentioned. But it has been seen that no such implication can be derived from the mere grant of certain powers to the House of Representatives in common with the other branch of the legislative body. As there is a rational construction which renders the due exercise of these powers in the cases to which they are competent compatible with the operation of the power of Treaty in all the necessary latitude, excluding the discretionary cooperation of the house of Representatives, that construction is to be preferred. It is far more natural to consider the exercise of those powers as liable to the exceptions which the power of Treaty granted to the President and Senate may make; than to infer from them a right in the House to share in this power in opposition to the terms of the grant and without a single expression in the constitution to designate the right. It is improbable that the constitution intended to vest in the house of Representatives so extensive a controul over treaties, without a single phrase that would look directly to the object. It is the more improbable, because the Senate being in the first instance a party to treaties, the right of discretionary cooperation in the House of Representatives, in virtue of its legislative character, would in fact terminate in itself, though but a part of the legislative body\u2014which suggests this question,\u2014Can the House of Representatives have any right in virtue of its general legislative character which is not effectually participated [in] by the Senate?\nIV \u2003 The claim of such a right on the ground that the Legislative power is essentially deliberative, that wherever its agency is in question it has a right to act or not\u2014and that consequently where provision by law is requisite to execute a Treaty there is liberty to refuse it\u2014cannot be acceded to without admitting in the legislative body and in each part of it an absolute discretion incontroulable by any constitutional injunctions limits or restrictions; thereby overturning the fabric of a fixed & definite constitution and erecting upon its ruins a legislative Omnipotence.\nIt would, for example, give to Congress a discretion to allow or not a fixed compensation to the Judges, though the constitution expressly enjoins \u201cthat they shall at stated times receive for their services a compensation, which shall not be diminished during their continuance in office\u201d; and would sacrifice this solemn & peremptory command of the Constitution to the opinion of Congress respecting a more essential application of the public money. Can this be true? Can any thing but absolute inability excuse a compliance with this injunction, and does not the constitution presuppose a moral impossib[il]ity of such inability? If there be a legal discretion in any case to contravene this injunction, what limit is there to the legal discretion of the legislative body? What injunction, what restrictionof the constitution may they not supersede? If the Constitution cannot direct the exercise of their authority in particular cases how can it limit it in any? What becomes of the appeal to our Courts on the constitutionality of a legislative act? What becomes of the power they solemnly assert to test such an act by the constitutional Commission and to pronounce it operative or null according to its conformity with a repugnance to that Commission? What in fine becomes of the Constitution itself?\nThis inquiry suggests a truth fundamental to the principles of our Government and all important to the security of the People of the U States\u2014namely that the legislative body is not deliberative in all cases, that it is only deliberative and discretionary where the constitution and the laws lay it under no command nor prohibition\u2014that where they command, it can only execute\u2014where they prohibit it cannot act. If the thing be commanded and the means of execution are undefined it may then deliberate on the choice of the means\u2014but it is obliged to devise some means. It is true that the Constitution provides no method of compelling the legislative body to act, but it is not the less under a Constitutional legal and moral obligation to act, where action is prescribed, & in conformity with the rule of action prescribed.\nIn asserting the authority of laws as well as of the constitution to direct and restrain the position is to be understood with this difference. The constitution obliges always\u2014the laws \u2019till they are annulled or repealed by the proper authority. But till then they oblige the legislative body as well as individuals; and all their antecedent effects are valid and binding. And the abrogation or repeal of a law must be by an act of the regular organ of the national will for that purpose in the forms of the constitution; not by a mere refusal to give effect to its injunctions and requisitions; especially by a part of the legislative body. A legal discretion to refuse the execution of a preexisting law is virtually a power to repeal it\u2014and to attribute this discretion to a part of the legislative body is to attribute to it the whole instead of a part of the legislative power in the given case. When towards the execution of an antecedent law further legislative provision is necessary, the past effects of the law are obligatory; and a positive repeal or suspension by the whole legislature is requisite to arrest its future operation. The idea is essential in a government like ours that there is no body of men or individual above the law; not even the legislative body till by an act of legislation they have annulled the law.\nThe argument from the principle of an essentially deliberative faculty in the legislative body is the less admissible, because it would result from it that the Nation could never be conclusively bound by a Treaty. Why should the inherent discretion of a future legislature be more bound by the assent of a preceding one than this was by a pledge of the public faith through the President & Senate.\nHence it follows that the house of representatives have no moral power to refuse the execution of a treaty, which is not contrary to the constitution, because it pledges the public faith, and have no legal power to refuse its execution because it is a law\u2014until at least it ceases to be a law by a regular act of revocation of the competent authority.\nThe ingredient peculiar to our Constitution, in that provision, which declares that Treaties are laws, is of no inconsiderable weight in the question. It is one thing whether a Treaty pledging the faith of the Nation shall by force of moral duty oblige the legislative will to carry it into effect; another whether it shall be of itself a law. The last is the case in our constitution which by a fundamental decree gives the character of a law to every Treaty, made under the authority which it designates. Treaties therefore in our government of themselves and without any additional sanction have full legal perfection as laws.\nQuestions may be made as to the cases in which and the authority by which under our constitution a Treaty consonant with it may be pronounced to have lost or may be divested of its obligatory force; a point not necessary now to be discussed. But admitting that authority to reside in the legislative body\u2014still its exercise must be by an act of Congress declaring the fact and the consequence, or declaring war against the power with whom the Treaty is. There is perceived to be nothing in our constitution, no rule of Constitutional law, to authorise one branch alone, or the House of Representatives in particular, to pronounce the existence of such cases, or from the beginning to refuse compliance with such a Treaty without any new events to change the original obligations. A right in the whole Legislative body consisting of the two houses of Congress by a collective act to pronounce the cases of non operation & nullity of a Treaty asserts every thing that can reasonably be claimed in favour of the legislative Power, presents a consistent rule & obviates all pretence of collision.\nHow discordant might be the results of a doctrine that the House of Representatives may at discretion execute or not a constitutional Treaty! What confusion, if our Courts of Justice should recognise & enforce as laws treaties, the obligation of which was denied by the House of Representatives!\u2014and that on a principle of inherent discretion which no decision of the Courts could guide. We might see our commercial & fiscal systems disorganised by the breaches made in antecedent laws by posterior treaties, through the want of some collateral provisions requisite to give due effect to the principle of the new rule.\nCan that doctrine be true which may present a Treaty operating as a law upon all the citizens of a country and yet legally disregarded by a portion of the legislative body?\nThe sound conclusion appears to be\u2014that when a Treaty contains nothing but what the constitution permits, it is conclusive upon All and All are bound to give it effect. When it contains more than the constitution permits it is void either in the whole or as to so much as it improperly contains.\nWhile I can discover no sufficient foundation in the constitution for the claim of a discretionary right in the House of Representatives to participate in giving validity to Treaties; I am confirmed in the contrary inference by the knowlege I have that the expediency of this participation was considered by the Convention which planned the Constitution and was by them overruled.\nThe greatness of the power of Treaty under this construction is no objection to its truth. It is doubtless a great power, and necessarily so, else it could not answer those purposes of national security and interest in the external relations of a Country for which it is designed. Nor does the manner in which it is granted in our constitution furnish any argument against the magnitude which is ascribed to it\u2014but the contrary. A treaty cannot be made without the actual cooperation and mutual consent of the Executive and two thirds of the Senate. This necessity of positive cooperation of the Executive charges him with a high responsibility, which cannot but be one great security for the proper exercise of the Power. The proportion of the Senate requisite to their valid consent to a treaty approaches so near to unanimity, that it would always be very extraordinary, if it should be given to one really pernicious or hurtful to the State. These great guards are manifest indications of a great power being meant to be deposited. So that the manner of its deposit is an argument for its magnitude rather than an argument against it, and an argument against the intention to admit with a view to security the discretionary cooperation of the House of Representatives rather than in favour of such a right in them.\nTwo thirds of the two houses of Congress may exercise their whole legislative power, not only without but against the consent of the Executive. It is not evident on general principles, that in this arrangement, there is a materially greater security against a bad law than in the other against a bad Treaty. The frequent absolute necessity of secrecy not only in the conduct of a foreign negotiation, but at certain conjunctures as to the very articles of a Treaty is a natural reason why a part and that the least numerous part of the legislative body was united with the Executive in the making of Treaties in exclusion of the other and the most numerous. But if the deposit of the Power of Treaty was less safe & less well guarded, than it is conceived to be, this would not be a good argument against its being in fact exclusively deposited, as the terms of the Constitution which establish it import it to be. It would only be an argument for an amendment to the Constitution modifying the deposit of the power differently & superadding new guards.\nIf the House of Representatives called upon to act in aid of a Treaty made by the President & Senate believe it to be unwarranted by the cons[ti]tution which they are sworn to support\u2014it will not be denied that they may pause in the execution; until a decision, on the point of constitutionality, in the Supreme Court of the United States shall have settled the question.\nBut this is the only discretion in that House, as to the obligation to carry a Treaty made by the President & Senate into effect, in the existence of which I can acquiesce, as being within the intent of the constitution.\nHence there was no question in my opinion of the competency of the House of Representatives, which I could presuppose likely to arise, to which any of the papers now requested could be deemed applicable; nor does it yet appear that any such question has arisen, upon which the request has been predicated.\nWere even the course of reasoning which I have pursued less well founded than it appears to me to be\u2014the request of papers, as a preliminary proceeding of the House, would still seem to be premature.\nA question on the Constitutionality of a Treaty can manifestly only be decided by comparing the instrument itself with the Constitution.\nA question whether a Treaty be consistent with or adverse to the interests of the U States must likewise be decided by comparing the stipulations which it actually contains with the situation of the U States in their internal and external relations.\nNothing extrinsic to the Treaty, or in the manner of the negotiating, can make it constitutional or unconstitutional, good or bad, salutary or pernicious. The internal evidence it affords is the only proper standard of its merits.\nWhatever therefore be the nature of the duty or discretion of the house, as to the execution of the Treaty, it will find its rule of action in the Treaty. Even with reference to an animadversion on the conduct of the Agents who made the Treaty\u2014the presumption of a criminal mismanagement of the interests of the U States ought first it is conceived to be deduced from the intrinsic nature of the Treaty & ought to be pronounced to exist previous to a further inquiry to ascertain the guilt or the guilty.\nWhenever the House of Representatives, proceeding upon any Treaty, shall have taken the ground that such a presumption exists in order to such an inquiry, their request to the Executive to cause to be laid before them papers which may contain information on the subject will rest on a foundation that cannot fail to secure to it due efficacy.\nBut under all the circumstances of the present Request (circumstances which I forbear to particularise) and in its present indefinite form, I adopt with reluctance and regret but with intire conviction the opinion that a just regard to the Constitution and to the duty of my office forbid on my part a compliance with that request.\n(G W)\nIf the President should conclude to send the papers reserving parts not proper to be sent instead of the last paragraph the conclusion may be this\n\u201cBut though under all the circumstances of the present request (circumstances which have produced great hesitation) I should deem myself warranted in witholding the papers\u2014I am nevertheless induced by a desire to cultivate harmony and to obviate unfavourable inferences in a case which has excited so much sensibility, to transmit to the House all such parts of the papers requested as can be material in any event for their information and as can be communicated without impropriety. These comprehend the commissions given to our Envoy, so much of the instructions to him as shew the extent & limits of his discretion & all the material parts of his correspondence.\u201d\n(G W)", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0057", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Morris, 30 March 1796\nFrom: Morris, Robert\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nAlexander Hamilton Esqre\nPhilada 30 March 1796\nDear Sir\nI delivered your letter to Wm Lewis Esqre together with yours to me and a draft of the Mortgage. He promised attention but as the Supreme Court is Sitting I believe he is much hurried. It will be over in a few days & then I suppose we shall get the business finished. In the mean time I drop this line that you may know that no delay occurs on my part. On the Contrary I wish to put you perfectly at ease & always am\nDr Sir Yrs Sincerely\nRM", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0059", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Rufus King, 1 April 1796\nFrom: King, Rufus\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia, April 1, 1796. On April 2, 1796, Hamilton wrote to King: \u201cThank you for yours of yesteday.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0060", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Rufus King, 2 April 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: King, Rufus\n[New York] April 2. 1796\nThank you for yours of yesteday. I have no copy of the paper sent. The greatest part went in the original draft though considerably reformed according to joint ideas & somewhat strengthened by new thoughts. A letter I have received tells me that it came to hand after the ground which was acted upon had been formally considered & taken in Council & that it is reserved for future use in the event of an expected criticism of the message.\nI have asked for it conditionaly to prune correct &c. If I get it you shall have a copy. But you must take care that there is no crossing of path. Yrs. truly\nA. Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0062", "content": "Title: Admission to Practice Law in the United States Circuit Court for the New York District in the Eastern Circuit, [6 April 1796]\nFrom: United States Circuit Court for the New York District in the Eastern Circuit\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander,Hoffman, Josiah Ogden,Livingston, Brockholst,Du Ponceau, Peter Stephen\n[New York, April 6, 1796]\nOrdered,\nThat Alexander Hamilton, Josiah Ogden Hoffman, Brockholst Livingston and Peter Stephen Du Ponceau be and they are hereby respectively admitted to practice as Counsellors of this Court. Whereupon they were respectively qualified as Counsellors and respectively subscribed the oath on the roll of Counsellors.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0063", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [8 April 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n[New York, April 8, 1796]\nSir\nI have done something but not what I intended. The sitting of two Courts & my professional engagements there prevent the execution of my plan. I no longer withold the paper lest circumstances should render it of any use.\nMost Affecy & resp\nA H\nPresident", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0065", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Justus Erich Bollmann, 10 April 1796\nFrom: Bollmann, Justus Erich\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia, April 10, 1796. On April 13, 1796, Bollmann wrote to Hamilton: \u201cA few days ago I had the pleasure to inclose You a copy of a letter which I had written to the President of the United States.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0066", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Fisher Ames, 13\u201314 April 1796\nFrom: Ames, Fisher\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia, April 13\u201314, 1796. On April 15, 1796, Hamilton wrote to Rufus King and referred to \u201cA letter by yesterday\u2019s Post from our Friend Ames. Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0067", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Justus Erich Bollmann, 13 April 1796\nFrom: Bollmann, Justus Erich\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhiladelphia April 13. 1796\nSir,\nA few days ago I had the pleasure to inclose You a copy of a letter which I had written to the President of the United States. In consequence of that I was called on Friday last to the State office, where Mr. Pickering told me that the President had some inclination to make a new effort to relieve the Marquis, and desired me at the same time to communicate to him by writing my Ideas on this subject. This occasioned a letter to the Secretary of State, of which I take the liberty to send You again a Copy, repeating once more that I always shall be very glad if You will enable me to regulate my Conduct with respect to myself as well as to the marquis, after your advice!\nIt was impossible not to have myself in view when I wrote the 8th paragraph of the inclosed letter, but I am so much convinced of what it asserts being essential and strictly true, that I would have written it exactly the same were I myself entirely out of the question!\nIt would be precious if this message were connectible with some other commercial and political object; it would be advantageous even, because the principal object, being in somewhat a secret one, would be more covered! I have received great kindness and attention from Prince Henry, when I was in Germany, and I am personally acquainted with the two sons of Count Bernstorf; of which the eldest is envoy extraordinary at the Court of Berlin!\nI have the honor to be with the highest esteem \u2003 Sir \u2003 Your most obt. & hbe. st.\nJ. Erich Bollmann170 Market street", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0068", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Marshall, 14 April 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Marshall, John\n[New York April 14, 1796. On April 25, 1796, Marshall wrote to Hamilton: \u201cYours of the 14th only reached me by the mail of this evening.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0071", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Germain Pierre Decrosses, 16 April 1796\nFrom: Decrosses, Germain Pierre\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nNew York, April 16, 1796. \u201cj\u2019ai eu l\u2019honneur de me presenter chez vous ce matin, mais je nai pas eu celui de vous y rencontrer. je quitte sous huit-jours cette terre hospitali\u00e9re pour aller dans un pays ou se trouvent r\u00e9unis tous les fl\u00e9aux qui peuvent affliger l\u2019humanit\u00e9. des raisons d\u2019une grande importance me font desirer d\u2019\u00eatre rec\u00fb citoyen americain. je suis resident ici dans cette ville de New-york depuis six ans, et cent temoins peuvent le certifier et le cautioner. la \u27e8cour supr\u27e9\u00eame federale est-elle assembl\u00e9e. dans ce cas rien de plus ais\u00e9, mais si elle ne l\u2019est pas, n\u2019y at-il pas un moyen dy suppleer, et de pouvoir me faire jouir des droits privil\u00e9ges et immunit\u00e9s que ma bien certainement acquis un aussi long sejour.\u2026 j\u2019ai eu l\u2019honneur de vous \u00eatre present\u00e9 par le colonel walker, et sur les bont\u00e9s et l\u2019inter\u00eat particulier dont veut bien M\u2019honorer Mr. jay votre ami et si digne de l\u2019etre.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0074", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Woodbury Langdon, 18 April 1796\nFrom: Langdon, Woodbury\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPortsmouth [New Hampshire] April 18, 1796. \u201cI conceive it will be necessary for you to have the original note which I hold against Michael Wentworth deceased, in order to settle matters with Mr. Edward Goold. I intended to have left it with you on my return from Philadelphia, but forgot it when I was with you last.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0075", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 18 April 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia, April 18, 1796. On April 20, 1796, Hamilton wrote to Wolcott: \u201cI have received your letter of the 18th. instant.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0077", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Rufus King, [20 April 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: King, Rufus\n[New York, April 20, 1796]\nDr. Sir\nYesterdays Post brought me a letter from you which gave me pleasure. The papers will apprize you of the proceedings of the Merchants & Traders here on yesterday. There is among them also \u201cunexampled unanimity\u201d & as far as I can judge the current is in our favour throughout the City. Persons to day are going through the different wards.\nYrs. sincerely\nA HamiltonApril 20. 1796\nP.S. Our friends in the House will do well to gain time.\nRufus King Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0078", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 20 April 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nNew York April 20. 1796\nDr. Sir\nI have received your letter of the 18th. instant. The money paid me for you shall be placed to your Credit in the Office of Discount & Deposit as you desire.\nThe British Ministry are as great fools, or as great rascals, as our Jacobins\u2014else our Commerce would not continue to be distressed as it is by their Cruisers, nor would the Executive be embarrassed as it now is by the new proposition.\nNot knowing the precise form of that proposition, I cannot have an opinion what is right on the part of the Executive. But if I understand it, it ought to be sufficient for the Executive to declare that the article in the Treaty with the Indians can never operate nor will be permitted to operate in contravention of the Treaty with G Britain. It relates to a right reserved for our benefit which we can and will wave & being in a Treaty of subsequent date, it naturally gives way to another of prior date with which it is consistent. The Executive ought to be careful about admitting the propriety of a new condition though it ought to be ready to give all due satisfaction. It should not even shun a new explanatory article if reasonable in itself\u2014but should agree to it upon the strength of its own reasonableness not as a new condition foreign to the Treaty. This affair requires great caution. But as I said I do not know enough to give advice worth much.\nYet the Government must take care not to appear pusyllanimous. I hope a very serious remonstrance has long since gone against the wanton impressment of our seamen. It will be an error to be too tame with this overbearing Cabinet.\nOur City is in motion against the plan of the Majority in the House of Representatives with regard to the Treaty. The current appears to be strong with us. The papers will tell you the measures in contemplation.\nBut I was sorry to learn that a proper qualified communication was not made to the House of Representatives of the late communication from the British Agent. The Executive may hereafter be blamed for withholding so important a fact. Yet not knowing the whole affair I cannot judge well on this point more than on the other.\nYrs\nA Hamilton\nOliver Wolcott Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0080", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Walter Livingston, 22 April 1796\nFrom: Livingston, Walter\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nLivingston Manor [New York] April 22, 1796. Asks Hamilton to serve as his attorney in a suit against \u201cthe Executors of my late brother Robt. C. L. for the recovery of my \u2153 of three Bonds given to him by Mr. Robt. Morris for \u00a33333 23/68 pensy. Curry. each\u2014as a doceur for not biding for the Lands held by Massachusets in this State.\u2026 to Consult with Mr. Saml. Jones, respecting the Action commenced for me against Jno. R. Livingston for \u00bd of the Ship Somerset and her Cargo,\u201d and to \u201cconsult with Mr. Jones respecting the Suit commenced against Ben. Seixes on his Note in favor of P Colt for 10977 Dols. Defd. Debt.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0081", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Fisher Ames, 23 April 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Ames, Fisher\n[New York, April 23, 1796. On April 23, 1796, Hamilton wrote to Rufus King: \u201cI have written to Ames this day.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0082", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Rufus King, [23 April 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: King, Rufus\n[New York, April 23, 1796]\nDr. Sir\nI have received your two letters & shall this day attend to the one which requires it. I see however no objection to it as it stands & I do not now perceive how the further object you aim at could be accomplished in the manner you seem to desire.\nI have written to Ames this day concerning the course of things in our City. He will communicate to you as, I have not time to repeat. We are decidedly well. But it is intended today to continue the Petition in circulation & tomorrow it will be sent. I thought it adviseable to publish an extract from your letter without naming you.\nYrs. truly\nA HamiltonApril 23 1796\nR King Esqr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0083", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Rufus King, 24 April [1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: King, Rufus\n[New York] April 24 [1796]\nDr. Sir\nI return you a certain draft, with a little substitute for the close of it proposed by Mr. J\u2014\u2014 with an eye to your suggestion.\nOur Petition went yesterday by express. It had more than 3200 signers which is within about 300 of the highest poll we ever had in this City on both sides, at the most controverted election. Nothing can more clearly demonstrate our unanimity & I feel no doubt of equal or greater unanimity throughout the state.\nThe Meeting men have not dared to publish the names of this Committee, because it imprudently contained a considerable proportion of persons hostile to its object\u2014several of them actually on our Petition. You see by this their embarrassment & their weakness.\nYrs.\nA H", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0084", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Marshall, 25 April 1796\nFrom: Marshall, John\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nRichmond April 25th. 96\nDear Sir\nYours of the 14th only reachd me by the mail of this evening. I had been informed of the temper of the house of representatives & we had promptly taken such measures as appeard to us fitted to the occasion. We coud not venture an expression of the public mind under the violent prejudices with which it had been impressd, so long as a hope remaind that the house of representatives might ultimately consult the interest or honor of the nation. But now when all hope of this has vanishd, it was deemed adviseable to make the experiment however hazardous it might be. A meeting was calld which was more numerous than I have ever seen at this place & after a very ardent & zealous discussion which consumd the day, a decided majority declard in favor of a resolution that the welfare & honor of the nation requird us to give full effect to the treaty negotiated with Britain.\nThis resolution with a petition drawn by an original opponent of the treaty will be forwarded by the next post to Congress. The subject will probably be taken up in every county in the state or at any rate in very many of them. It is probable that a majority of the counties will avow sentiments opposd to ours\u2014but the division of the state will appear to be much more considerable than has been stated. In some of the districts there will certainly be a majority who will concur with us & that perhaps may have some effect. As Man is a gregarious animal we shall certainly derive much aid from declarations in support of the constitution & of appropriations if such can be obtaind, from our sister States. The ground we take here is very much that of Mr. Hillhouse. We admit the discretionary constitutional power of the representatives on the subject of appropriations but contend that the treaty is as completely a valid & obligatory contract when negotiated by the President & ratified by him with the assent & advice of the Senate as if sanctiond by the house of representatives also under a constitution requiring such sanction. I think it woud be very difficult perhaps impossible to engage Mr. H. on the right side of this question. If you have any communications which might promote a concurrence of action we shall be proud to receive them.\nWith much respect & esteem I am dear Sir your Obedt.\nJ Marshall", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0085", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Philip Schuyler, 25 April 1796\nFrom: Schuyler, Philip\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nAlbany Monday April 25th 1796\nDear Sir\nUnadvised of the measures pursuing at New York, relative to the treaty with Britain, It was not deemed prudent to convene the citizens here on the Subject, until we received information from your city. On Saturday morning the mail arrived, and the Herald announced what had been done\u2014about forty Citizens were immediately convened, and unanimously agreed to petition in the words of the new York petition, with no other variation than what was requisite to Accomodate It to the people in this quarter. Five hundred copies where immediately printed, proper persons appointed to invite the Signature of the Citizens individually, before sunset this was compleated, all having subscribed Except about  who declined, many decided Antif\u0153darelist concurred and signed.\nA circular letter was prepared, directed to the Supervizers, Assessors & town Clerks, of the Several towns in this and the counties to the Eastward, northward & westward of this. Several of these, with copies of the petition are already dispatched, and the residue will be sent to day. We believe the Subscribers will be numerous.\nThe petition from this city will be sent to Philadelphia by this days mail.\nWe are anxious to hear the result of the Application to the citizens of New York, and If favorable, wish It to \u27e8be\u27e9 communicated in a formal manner, by the New York committee.\nThe inclosed, is a copy of the letter, which accompanied the copy of the petition to the several towns.\nPray drop me a line, advising me of the latest intelligence from Philadelphia, on this important subject.\nAdieu my Love to all with You \u2003 Yours most affectionately\nPh: Schuyler\nAlexander Hamilton Esqr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0087", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Lewis, 27 April 1796\nFrom: Lewis, William\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia, April 27, 1796. On April 27, 1796, Robert Morris wrote to Hamilton: \u201cMr. Lewis \u2026 says he has written you two letters, the last of them this morning.\u201d Letter of April 27 not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0090", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 29 April 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhila. Apl. 29. 1796\nDr. Sir\nPrivate\nI have recd. your favour of the 20th. The affair with Bond stands thus, & is truly attended with some perplexing circumstances.\nThe communication states, that provisional orders have been given for the surrender of the Posts whenever the House of Representatives shall have indicated an intention to give effect to the Treaty & when an article shall have been negociated explanatory of the sense of the two nations that the 8th article of our Treaty with the Indians shall not abrogate from the rights stipulated in favour of British subjects by the 3d. article of the Treaty with Great Britain. The style of the Memorial is respectful & the doubtful article in the Indian Treaty is attributed to want of information on our part of the Stipulation in the B. Treaty.\nI have thought that a declaration by the Executive, that we admit the doctrine of the Law of nations, ought to be sufficient, & that insisting upon an explanatory article was pressing a point rather unreasonably against us. As however Mr. Bond says that he is instructed to insist on an article, & as the terms can be adjusted so as compleatly to save the national honour, perhaps we are bound to consent. I feel however that the Executive ought not to have been embarrassed at present.\nThere being two points to be settled, before we obtain the Posts, one concerning the Legislation & the other the Senate, it has appeared to me that a partial communication would be improper, & that a general one would be inexpedient. A message to the House would moreover unnecessarily stimulate the passions of the opposition. A resolution for giving effect to the Treaty is under consideration. The presumption ought to be that they will do their duty. On this ground, the Senate have forborne to connect a provision for the B. Treaty with the bills which have been sent up respecting the other Treaties. The principle which has governed the Senate, if correct, requires the Executive to forbear his interference.\nSome difficulty may be apprehended in obtaining a ratification of the explanatory article in the present state of the Senate, but it will be surmounted.\nI think the government will succeed in the present contest, but it remains doubtful whether order can be long preserved. Unless a radical change of opinion can be effected in the Southern States, the existing establishments will not last eighteen months. The influence of Messrs. Gallatin, Madison & Jefferson must be diminished, or the public affairs will be brought to a stand. No proper attention is paid to the current business of the Government by the House; every thing is in the hands of the Committees, nothing is understood & few matters of importance in a train for being compleated. Before the Treaty question commenced, the Treaty furnished a pretence for delay\u2014the length of the session & the languor of the members will furnish another pretext, after that question shall have been determined.\nMr. Patten, the Post Master, communicated to me yester day a singular circumstance. Some time since, letters were delivered into his Office, for Robert Cowper & a Doctor Graham of Suffolk in Virginia. By some means Mr. Patten discovered that these Letters had been brought from Virginia, & this he says induced him to suspect some mischief & to write to Virginia. I have seen the answer which he (Patten) recd. from Robt. Cowper in which he says that the Letter to him was signed with your Name\u2014that to Doct. Graham was signed with the name of Mr. Van Allen of Congress. It seems that the Letters were forgeries, & contain something which if true might injure yours & Mr. V Allens characters. This is doubtless some Jacobin Trick. I shall try to detect it & give you information. At present I have no particulars.\nI am truely yrs.\nOliv. Wolcott Jr.\nAlex Hamilton Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0091", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Rufus King, 1 May [1796]\nFrom: King, Rufus\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia] Sunday 1 May [1796]\nIn committee of the whole on friday it was resolved by the casting vote of Muhlenburgh the chairman, to make provision by Law for carrying the Treaty with England into Effect. Yesterday the Resolution of the Committee of the whole was passed in the House by 51. against 48. A proposition to prefix to the Resolution a Preamble declaring the Treaty to be injurious to the Interest of the US. and assigning the short duration of its temporary articles as a reason why it should be permitted to go into Effect, was negatived by 50. against 49. and the Resolution was immediately, and without Division, referred to a Committee with instructions to prepare and report a Bill or Bills in conformity with the Resolution. The failure of the Party in their intention to denounce the Treaty, I am fearful will not discourage them in a second attempt. A majority of five or Six (If I am not mistaken) would join in a vote of condemnation, but in the shape in which the proposition was offered, some of the most inveterate Opponents of the treaty, voted in the negative because they said, if they voted for the Preamble, it would be then proper for them to vote for the Resolution which they were determined not to do. Though from the State in which the Business now is, I hope the attempt will not be made, yet if an independent Resolution shd. be offered, declaring the Treaty to be injurious &c &c I am apprehensive it would be adopted. This however would not defeat the Procession for the Execution of the Treaty\u201451 votes in the affirmative; the speakers vote with that of Mr. Freeman of Massachusetts, both of whom are in favor of the Provisions, make 53, affirmative voices, a Majority of the whole Number of Reps.\nYr\u2019s &c\nRK", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0093", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Tatham, 2 May 1796\nFrom: Tatham, William\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nConfidential\nAt the Court of SpainAranjuez 2d. May 1796.\nSir,\nBeing fully satisfied that the sentiments of our two very young Representitives in this Country holding the appointments of Charge de Affairs and Consul, of the United States are so different from those you have openly avowed that you will not be amongst the number of their correspondents, a knowledge of your public Character without a personal acquaintance induces me to communicate to you what concerns our Country at perhaps the most critical period it has experienced since our establishment.\nThe French Ambassadour Perignon attended by The General Officer & his Suite late Comr. in Chief of the Army of Rousillon arrived here a few days ago & had his introduction at court which is said to have been less favourable above stairs than below; I do not feel myself at liberty to state particulars.\nGod only knows in what this european war will end. \u201cDivide and Conquer\u201d seems to me to be the ill judged maxim, and our fate will really be a hard one if we are compelled to take a part in it for want of firm unanimity and attention to our internal interests!\nI fear such a change in the War with England as to render our Country a principal Theatre of future operations: perhaps we may be compelled to seek safety in a closer connection with the Canadian Territories of our British Enemies unless the Nations who are now at Peace should all combine for a continuance of it under something like an Armed Neutrality; for if Spain should join the other side in this European contest thro\u2019 necessity I have reason to think that the destruction of Brittish naval power, a Revolution in England, the recapture of Canada (regardless of the King of France\u2019s stipulation) and the surrender of Gibraltar tho\u2019 not agreed upon with the Cabinet of Madrid will at least be contemplated by that of Paris.\nHere it is that I am at a loss to find the subsequent security which it behooves Spain and us to look to! for altho\u2019 the Republic of France avows the coequal Right of Countries to govern their own Affairs as the very essence of their Revolution, I cannot comprehend how the purity of that principle is any longer a basis when she goes abroad in search of foreign Colonization, or adopts measures of a dictatorial Complexion towards others who are acknowledged to be equaly free; or do I see how the Crown of Spain can be safe in relying on those successes of a People which go to destroy the Barrier which themselves have set up in their own social Contract, and to level the Power of Monarchy thro\u2019t the Universe in an Anarchy & Confusion beyond every calculation of certainty.\nI inclose You in haste a Copy of my Letter to Mr. Rutledge by which You will see how I stand with him & conjecture his way of thinking. I would not have this understood as intended to injure him in his future consequence in life, for I have realy a high opinion of him as to his integrity and Heart; but regardless of private Freindship it is my duty to say as I beleive that unless one of our most temperate and experienced Statesmen is placed here we have no political Security! for these are not Times to trust the Chariot of the Sun in the hands of Phaeton.\nI think also well of Young Yznardy personally, & he certainly in his Office supports our dignity under the indulgence of an amiable and gratefull Father with true Andalusian pride: It is however lucky for him to live in his native luxurious Climate in the Reign of Charles the 4th.; & still move so that Long Island is nearer to New York than to Cadiz.\nBetween them I suppose I shall have to appear at the Bar of the supreme Court in a new Capacity on my return, & in this Case I must request that You will consider yourself retained for me.\nAs I have not nor never had a secret to hide from the old General (God knows if he is still President) beyond a temporary expediency, I leave you at perfect liberty to transmit this to Him; & if You enquire of my Freinds Colol. E. Carrington or The Hone. J. Steele of the Virga. Council I have no doubt that You will approve my political principles without tacking my faith to the Slave of any Foreign Power. My life is at Stake commit me not to any other living Soul?\nI am in haste Yours hastily\nWm Tatham\nHone.Alexr. Hamilton\nN. York \u261e News! be guarded & United if possible W.T.\nP.S. Just as I am about to close this I am told that \u201ca Courier arrived last night from the United States to Mr. Rutledge.\u201d I suppose he will not fail to let some of his Foreign Companions know more than he will confide to me as I have not seen him since my Letter to him. I shall in every event do all I can to keep our yet happy Country united & quiet.\nW.T.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0095", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Rufus King, [4 May 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: King, Rufus\n[New York, May 4, 1796]\nMy Dear Sir\nSince my last I have received two or three letters from you. The late turn of the Treaty question makes us all very happy. I hope no future embarrassment will arise.\nI am intirely of opinion that P.H declining Mr. P\u2014\u2014 ought to be our man. It is even an idea of which I am fond in various lights. Indeed on latter reflection, I rather wish to be rid of P.H, that we may be at full liberty to take up Pinckney.\nIn the event of Pinck[n]ey\u2019s return to this Country, I am of opinion all circumstances considered, it is expedient you should replace him. I hope no great question will in a short period agitate our Councils & I am sure you will do much good on the scene in question. I have called on Jay, but happened not to find him disengaged. I shall quickly see him & shall with great pleasure do every thing requisite on my part.\nWe believe confidently our election in this City has succeeded; the other party however also claims success. Our Senator Ticket seems admitted on both sides to have prevailed & all accounts assure us of great success throughout the state. The vile affair of whipping Burke & McCredy made our election in the view of the common people a question between the Rich & the Poor. You will easily conceive how much this must have embarrassed & jeoparded.\nYrs. Affectionately\nA Hamilton\nRufus King Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0096", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Lewis, 4 May 1796\nFrom: Lewis, William\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhiladelphia, May 4, 1796. \u201cWhen I wrote you a few lines some days since I intended writing you more fully before this time, & this I should have done had I not soon after been informed by Mr. Morris that finding you to be very desirous to have security within the State of New York he had written to you offering you a security of lands within that state which he had no doubt but you would most willingly accept. On learning this I have waited in expectation of your answer being received either by Mr. Morris or myself, but not having since heard from you I have concluded to write to you without further delay. In Pennsylvania we have no Court of Chancery for a mortgagee to apply to in order to foreclose the equity of redemption in case of non-payment by the mortgagor but the remedy is by a scire facias issued under an act of Assembly which enacts that when any lands or tenements are mortgaged for securing the payment of monies if default shall be made by non-payment & it shall be lawful for the mortgagee after the expiration of one year thereafter to sue out a writ of scire facias to summon the mortgagor to shew cause why the mortgaged premises should not be levied on & sold to pay the monies due. This scire facias describes the mortgaged premisses by meets & bounds, courses & distances; the judgment is that execution be had of the premisses so described; the writ of execution follows the description contained in the mortgage & the sale & Sheriff\u2019s deed must be equally particular. But as only part of Mr. Morris\u2019s warrant rights have been actually surveyed & located & as the applications & warrants describe no particular spots nor contain any other description than that of being on or near certain waters &c it is impossible for a mortgage to describe them & as an Execution must pursue the words of the mortgage no sale could be made in this way even tho\u2019 surveys should be made & returned & the Patents should issue after making the mortgage & before issuing the execution. Hence it is evident that unless you take a security in New York you must either wait till all the surveys are returned & allowed or another mode which I believe unexceptionable must be adopted, as has lately been done under my direction in another case. It is that a mortgage be taken of the warrant rights with a power for you, your heirs &c to sell in case of non payment by the mortgagor. In that case the mortgage after reciting the bond will proceed to grant & convey all the warrant rights.\u2026 Unless you take security on lands in your state I think the mode proposed by me much better than any other on the same property which I have thought of. You desire me to examine the title of Mr. Morris to these lands but this is impossible at present until the Patents issue since the claims of our Speculators very frequently clash & untill patents issue either party may enter his caveat agt. the other & untill a hearing takes place before the board of propy. it is impossible to procure the necessary materials to form judgt. on. As to the State of Judgts agt. Mr. M. I hardly know what to say except that they are certainly very numerous & I fear to a large amt. tho I rather suppose that but few if any of them are of a nature to affect your proposed security. If you conclude on taking a security here be so good as to inform me of it that I may (now that our Courts are over) set about the necessary enquiries & arrangements without loss of time, but if you can obtain satisfactory security elsewhere I think you had better take it.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0097", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Rufus King, [5 May 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: King, Rufus\n[New York, May 5, 1796]\nDr Sir.\nAfter reading seal & hand on the inclosed. If such things are to be you cannot leave the Senate. Jay is against it at all events till the European storm is over. We must all think well of this business.\nAdieu \u2003 Yours Affey\nA Hamilton\nR. King Esqr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0099", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Edward Stevens, [7 May 1796]\nFrom: Stevens, Edward\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia, May 7, 1796]\nMy dear Friend\nAlmost ever since your Departure I have been confined to my Chamber by a severe and obstinate Catarrh. Tho\u2019 much better, at present, my Health is still so much deranged, that I dread encountering the Warmth of the Summer Months in this City. I have therefore, determined to take a Voyage to Sea, and as I shall visit St. Croix, before my Return, Mrs. Stevens has concluded to accompany me with our little ones. Our Absence will be but short. If no unexpected Event takes place we shall certainly return by the Month of September. I could not, however, leave America without assuring you of our best Wishes for the Health and Prosperity of yourself and Family. May every Blessing attend you. Mrs. S. unites with me in affectionate Remembrance of Mrs. Hamilton. I remain with unfeigned Attachment.\nMy dear Sir \u2003 Your sincere Freind\nEdward Stevens.\nPhiladelphia May 7th. 1796.\nWe embark this Day.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0100", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 8 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhiladelphia 8th. May 1796.\nMy dear Sir,\n(Private & confidential)\nYour note of the 5th. instant accompanying the information given to you by G.\u2014\u2014 M.\u2014\u2014 on the 4th. of March, came safe on friday. The letter he refers to, as having been written to me, is not yet received; but others from Mr. Monroe of similar complexion, and almost of as imperious a tone from that government, have got to hand.\nThat justice & policy should dictate the measures with which we are threatned, is not to be conceived; and one would think that even folly & madness on their part, would hardly go such lengths, without supposing a stimulus of a more serious nature than the Town meetings, & the partial resolutions which appeared in the course of last Summer & Autumn on ours. Yet, as it seems to be the \u00c6ra of strange vicissitudes, & unaccountable transactions; attended with a sort of irresistable fatality in many of them, I shall not be surprized at any event that may happen, however extraordinary it may be; and therefore, it may not be amiss to ruminate upon the information which has been received in its fullest latitude; and be prepared to answer the demands on the extensive scale wch has been mentioned.\nWhat then do you think ought to be said in case G.\u2014\u2014 M\u2014\u2014s information should prove true, in all its parts? And what, if the proceedings, & Instructions of the French Directory should not exceed my conjecture, which is, that encouraged by the proceedings of last Summer on the Treaty (as already mentioned) and aided perhaps by communications of influencial men in this country, thro\u2019 a medium which ought to have been the last to engage in it, that that government may, and I believe will send out an Envoy extraordinary, with Instructions to make strong remonstrances against the unfriendliness (as they will term it), and the tendency of our Treaty with Great Britain; accompanied probably, and expectedly, with discretionary powers to go farther, according to circumstances, and the existing state of matters when he shall have arrived here. Perhaps these Instructions may extend to a releasement from that part of our Treaty with them, which claims exemption from the seizure of Enemies goods in our Vessels. Perhaps, to demand the fulfilment of our guarantee of their West India Islds. as the most likely means of affording them relief, under the circumstances they labor at present. Perhaps too, to endeavor to render null & void our Treaty with G. Britain. Possibly all of them, or the dissolution of the Alliance. But I cannot bring my mind to believe that they seriously mean, or that they could accompany this Envoy with a Fleet, to demand the annihilation of the Treaty with G. Britain in fifteen days; or that War, in case of refusal, must follow as a consequence.\nWere it not for the unhappy differences among ourselves, my answer wd. be short & decisive, to this effect. We are an Independent Nation, and act for ourselves. Having fulfilled, and being willing to fulfil, (as far as we are able) our engagements with other nations, and having decided on, and strictly observed a Neutral conduct towards the Belligerent Powers, from an unwillingness to involve ourselves in War\u2014We will not be dictated to by the Politics of any Nation under Heaven, farther than Treaties require of us.\nWhether the present, or any circumstances should do more than soften this language, may merit consideration. But if we are to be told by a foreign power (if our engagements with it are not infracted) what we shall do, and what we shall not do, we have Independence yet to seek, & have contended hitherto for very little.\nIf you have communicated the purport of G\u2014\u2014 M\u2014\u2014s letter to Mr. Jay, I wish you would lay this also before him, in confidence, and that you & he would be so good as to favor me with your sentiments, & opinions on both; and on the measures which you think would be most advisable to be taken, in case we should have to encounter the difficulties with which we are threatned: which, assuredly, will have been brought on us by the misconduct of some of our own intemperate people; who seem to have preferred throwing themselves into the arms of France (even under the present circumstances of that Country) to that manly, & Neutral conduct which is so essential, & would so well become us, as an Independent Nation.\nBefore, I close this letter, I will mention another subject, which, tho\u2019 in a smaller degree, is nevertheless embarrassing. This also is communicated in confidence. It respects the wishes of young Fayette, relative to his father. As is very natural, & what might have been expected, he is extremely solicitous that something should be attempted to obtain the liberation of him; and has brought forward several plans (suggested by Doctr Ballman; who, it is to be feared will be found a troublesome guest among us) to effect it.\nThese will be better understood by the Enclosures now sent, than by any details I could give, when I add to them\u2014the supposition of Fayette & Frestal, that the Doctor is without funds, and will be more embarrassing to them the longer he remains here. No mention, however, that has come to my knowledge of his going away.\nThe result of my reflection on this subject, and which I have communicated to the two young Men, is, that altho\u2019 I am convinced in my own mind that Mr. La Fayette will be held in confinement by the combined Powers until Peace is established; yet to satisfy them, & their friends of my disposition to facilitate their wishes, as far as it can be done with any propriety on my part, I would as a private person, express in a letter to the Emperor, my wish, and what I believe to be the wishes of this Country towards that Gentleman; viz, that the liberation of him, conditioned on his repairing hither, would be a grateful measure. That this letter I would put under cover to Mr. Pinckney, to be forwarded or not, according to the view he might have of its success; after conversing indirectly with the Diplomatic characters of the combined Powers in London. But that I could not, while in Public Office, have any Agency in, or even knowledge of, any projects that should require concealment, or that I should be unwilling to appear openly & avowedly in. That as Doctr. Ballman had committed an act (however meritorious & pleasing it might be to the friends of Mr. de la Fayette) which was viewed in a very obnoxious light by the Power in whose possession the prisoner was\u2014Had narrowly excaped condign punishment for it himself\u2014and was released upon the express condition that he should never again appear in those Dominions, that I could neither shew him countenance\u2014nor could I furnish him with money to extricate himself from difficulties (if he was in any). Seeing but little difference between giving before, or after, to a man who stands in the light he does between that Power & the Executive of the U States; but that, if he was disposed to quit the latter, I had no doubt, & he might be so assured, that the friends of Mr. de la Fayette would raise a sufficient sum to enable him to do this, and to defray his expences since he has been in this Country. What they will say to him, or he do in this matter, I know not.\nIf you & Mr. Jay see no impropriety in such a letter as I have mentioned, to be used at the discretion of Mr. Pinckney\u2014I would thank either of you for drafting it. Mr. Jay in particular having been in the habit, & better acquainted with the stile and manner of addressing these sort of characters than I am, would be able to give it a better shape. To return the papers now sent, with the draught required, as soon as convenient, would be acceptable to\nDear Sir \u2003 Your Affecte Servt.\nGo: Washington\nColo. A. Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0102", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Morris, 10 May 1796\nFrom: Morris, Robert\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhilada. May 10th. 1796\nDear Sir\nYour letter dated April 9th. but which was written yesterday, I presume, came to hand this Morning and I have since the receipt of it and of one from Colo Ogden seen Colo Walker who tells me that he left power with you to adjust with the latter the business of the Mortgage formerly granted by me to Colo W. Smith on behalf of Mr Pulteney &c., therefore I presume it has been settled in some way or other. Colo Ogden has sent me a Copy of the Articles of agreement made by him on my behalf with Othniel Taylor & Asa Danforth for the Sale of 50000 Acres of Land, and in order to have the affair compleatly finished, I proposed to Colo Walker that I would Convey the said 50,000 Acres to him and assign to him the above mentioned Contract which binds the parties to pay $57,500 and interest at the times therein mentioned. My debt to Mr. Pulteney for which the Mortgage was given is about fifty thousand Dollrs of Six \u214c Ct Stock now Worth about 17/4 in the pound, but that I would Commute it into Money at 20/ or par, and Colo Walker to pay the bale of the Account, & enter Satisfaction on the Mortgage discharging me of the demand. It appears to me that this is necessary in order to give Value to the Mortgage I am to make to you and I have thus explained myself lest Colo Walker might misunderstand or not Recollect clearly my proposition. I think it is fair, honorable and generous such as will be approved by the principal, and therefore I expect that you will advise his Concurrence. I will have the Mortgage to you immediately drawn and the form you prescribe Shall be duly observed. I expect however to hear from you & Col Walker in answer to this letter, as I consider my hands to be tied up by the Chancery Suit, untill the Mortgage is discharged.\nI am Dr Sir", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0103", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Timothy Pickering, [10 May 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n[New York, May 10, 1796]\nDr Sir\nInclosed is a letter which I will thank you to hand to its destination.\nWhile I have my pen in my hand, give me leave to mention a particular subject to you. Mr. Pinckney, it is said, desires to return to the U States. In this case a successor will be wanted. If we had power to make a man for the purpose, we could not imagine a fitter than Mr. King. He is tired of the Senate & I fear will resign at all events. I presume he would accept the mission to England. Can there be a doubt that it will be wise to offer it to him?\nYrs with much esteem & regard\nA Hamilton\nT Pickering Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0104", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Stephen Rochefontaine, 10 May 1796\nFrom: Rochefontaine, Stephen\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nWest Point by Peekskill, May 10, 1796. \u201cI have had the honor to transmit to you in the course of last week, a Letter detailing the affair which passed between Mr Wilson, a Lieut. in the Corps, and myself; the Injuries offered on both sides had been settled agreeably to the rules of honor adopted by gentlemen, and in consequence of a Particular agreement made by the two seconds; two days after I received a Challenge from Mr. Wilson by his second.\u2026 My answer was that I looked on that affair as settled. Some of the officers who are far from being my friends, and who are too Prudent to expose themselves to a gentlemanly explanation, took hold of that circumstance to revenge themslves without danger, they assembled the officers who \u2026 Sign\u2019d a Sort of libel in which they declare that they will publish to the world, that after insulting Mr. Wilson, I refused to give him satisfaction; I refused the paper which was not authenticated by any signature, & I did not receive it back, but they Sent me a copy of some charges laid against me before the secretary of War. Mr. McHenry has Sent me the copy of that accusation, and has not Informed me yet what plan he expected to proceed upon. I desired him by this post to grant me a Court of Inquiry instead of a Court Martial.\u2026 I wish you would oblige me with your advice.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0105-0002", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [10 May 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\nNew York May 10. 1796\nSir\nWhen last in Philadelphia you mentioned to me your wish that I should re dress a certain paper which you had prepared. As it is important that a thing of this kind should be done with great care and much at leisure touched & retouched, I submit a wish that as soon as you have given it the body you mean it to have that it may be sent to me.\nA few days since I transmitted you the copy of a letter I had received from Mr G\u2014\u2014 M\u2014\u2014.\nIt is rumoured, that Mr. Pinckney entertains a wish to return to this Country. Give me leave to make known to you, that in such an event, I have ground to believe it would not be disagreeable to Mr. King to be the successor. I verily believe, that a more fit man for the purpose cannot be found and I imagine Mr. King will in every event leave the Senate. Should you think well of his appointment, I presume he would be disposed by a previous resignation to make the way easy to his nomination by you. Considering the strong commercial relations of the two countries it is truly very important that each should have with the other a man able and willing to give fair play to reciprocal interests. From what I have seen of Mr. Liston the present Minister of G B & from what Mr. Pinckney and others say of him to me\u2014I believe he will be found a well disposed intelligent and agreeable man.\nVery respectfully & affectly I have the honor to be Sir \u2003 Your obed Servant\nA Hamilton\nThe President of the U States", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0106", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 15 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhiladelphia 15th May 1796\nMy dear Sir,\nOn this day week, I wrote you a letter on the subject of the information received from G\u2014\u2014 M\u2014\u2014, and put it with some other Papers respecting the case of Mr. De la Fayette, under cover to Mr Jay: to whom also I had occasion to write. But in my hurry (making up the dispatches for the Post Office next morning) I forgot to give it a Superscription; of course it had to return from N: York for one, & to encounter all the delay occasioned thereby, before it could reach your hands.\nSince then, I have been favored with your letter of the 10th. instt.; & enclose (in its rough State) the paper mentioned therein, with some alteration in the first page (since you saw it) relative to the reference at foot. Having no copy by me (except of the quoted part)\u2014nor the notes from wch it was drawn, I beg leave to recommend the draught now sent, to your particular attention.\nEven if you should think it best to throw the whole into a different form, let me request, notwithstanding, that my draught may be returned to me (along with yours) with such amendments & corrections, as to render it as perfect as the formation is susceptible of; curtailed, if too verbose; and relieved of all tautology, not necessary to enforce the ideas in the original or quoted part. My wish is, that the whole may appear in a plain stile; and be handed to the public in an honest; unaffected; simple garb.\nIt will be perceived from hence, that I am attached to the quotation. My reasons for it are, that as it is not only a fact that such an Address was written, and on the point of being published, but known also to one or two of those characters who are now stronger, & foremost in the opposition to the Government; and consequently to the person Administering of it contrary to their views; the promulgation thereof, as an evidence that it was much against my inclination that I continued in Office, will cause it more readily to be believed, that I could have no view in extending the Powers of the Executive beyond the limits prescribed by the Constitution; and will serve to lessen, in the public estimation the pretensions of that Party to the patriotic zeal & watchfulness, on which they endeavor to build their own consequence at the expence of others, who have differed from them in sentiment. And besides, it may contribute to blunt, if it does not turn aside, some of the shafts which it may be presumed will be aimed at my annunciation of this event; among which\u2014conviction of fallen popularity, and despair of being reelected, will be levelled at me with dexterity & keeness.\nHaving struck out the reference to a particular character in the first page of the Address, I have less (if any) objection to expunging those words which are contained within parenthesis\u2019s in pages 5, 7 & 8 in the quoted part, and those in the 18th page of what follows. Nor to the discarding the egotism (however just they may be) if you think them liable to fair criticism, and that they had better be omitted; notwithstanding some of them relate facts which are but little known to the Community.\nMy object has been, and must continue to be, to avoid personalities; allusions to particular measures, which may appear pointed; and to expressions which could not fail to draw upon me attacks which I should wish to avoid, and might not find agreeable to repel.\nAs there will be another Session of Congress before the Political existence of the present House of Representatives, or my own, will constitutionally expire, it was not my design to say a word to the Legislature on this subject; but to withhold the promulgation of my intention until the period, when it shall become indispensably necessary for the information of the Electors, previous to the Election (which, this year, will be delayed until the 7th. of December). This makes it a little difficult, and uncertain what to say, so long beforehand, on the part marked with a pencil in the last paragraph of the 2d page.\nAll these ideas, and observations are confined, as you will readily perceive, to my draft of the validictory Address. If you form one anew, it will, of course, assume such a shape as you may be disposed to give it, predicated upon the Sentiments contained in the enclosed Paper.\nWith respect to the Gentleman you have mentioned as Successor to Mr. P\u2014\u2014 there can be no doubt of his abilities, nor in my mind is there any of his fitness. But you know as well as I, what has been said of his political sentiments, with respect to another form of Government; and from thence, can be at no loss to guess at the Interpretation which would be given to the nomination of him. However, the subject shall have due consideration; but a previous resignation would, in my opinion, carry with it too much the appearance of Concert; and would have a bad, rather than a good effect.\nAlways, & sincerely \u2003 I am Yours\nGo: Washington\nColo. A. Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0108", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Browne Cutting, 16 May 1796\nFrom: Cutting, John Browne\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhiladelphia, May 16, 1796. \u201cYou were good enough to offer me last Decr. what I little thought I should have occasion to accept in May\u2014letters to any of your friends in Congress. Business of greater moment than my claim has incessantly occupied the Secretary of State ever since the documents that support it have been in his possession.\u2026 I therefore presume to request of you a single line to Mr. King or any other Gentleman in Senate simply stating that you did thus examine my papers; and that you do think I zealously expended my own money in a public service and that this money at least should be repaid upon the proofs I have thus toild to accumulate.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0110", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Richard Harison, 17 May [1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Harison, Richard\n[New York] May 17 [1796]. \u201cI have seen Mr. Blanchard. He will do what we talked of, except as to the loan of the further sum, which he intirely declines. I will thank you to send for Bouvier and ascertain his final determination; in order that it may be known whether hostilities must ensue or not.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0111-0001", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Morris, 17 May 1796\nFrom: Morris, Robert\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nAlex Hamilton Esqre. N York\nPhila May 17. 1796\nDear sir\nWhen you received the Bond & Mortgage Deed transmitted herewith which are dated the 16 Instant you will perceive that there has been all the sincerity in my Professions which you could expect. I have from you experienced that degree of Confidence which consisted with my Character and I have been gratified thereby but the extreme solicitude that has lately appeared on your part leads me to suppose that Mr Churchs letters or the Common Reports have impaired that Confidence. You probably dread the Effects of the Judgements you have heard of but you need not, I have provided for them and so I shall continue to do whenever it becomes indispensible. I would never Suffer a Judgement to come against me, if I was alone in the business, but as I am now situated I cannot prevent it untill such time as solid relief shall arise from the abundant Property which I possess. I will seek the means of clearing away the Mortgage to Colo Smith and I am sure the Principals in that Business would never have treated me as the Attorneys have done. Were I to act agreeably to my feelings a very different letter would be written by me to Mr Church than that which you will find inclosed herein & that such a letter is not written you may truly ascribe to yourself because I respect and esteem you. Be so kind to transmit with this letter your Advice of our new Arrangement & desire him to transfer the North American Land Company Shares agreeably to my request. You did not leave with me the Deed of Conveyance of the 20290 Acres of Land but I still have the Patents & will either send them to you or deliver them to any Person you please. I am Sincerely\nYrs\nRM", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0111-0002", "content": "Title: Enclosure: Robert Morris to John B. Church, 17 May 1796\nFrom: Morris, Robert\nTo: Church, John B.\n   via New York Copy \u214c Wm Penn\nJohn B. Church Esqre (London)\nPhila May 17. 1796\nSir\nColo Hamilton transmitted to me your letter of the 20 Febry last, wherein you complain that I had done wrong & treated you unfriendly \u201cin having prevailed upon him to cancel the Mortgage I had given him on an Estate in Philadelphia, when the Agreemt was expressly made with my Son that the Mortgage should remain as Security to you untill the deferred stock was delivered in discharge of the Contract made with him.\u201d Be pleased to attend to the following state of Facts and your astonishment will probably cease & your Opinion become more favorable. The Origin of my Debt to you was a purchase of 100 Shares of Bank stock at \u00a3100 Stg \u214c Share which gave you a profit of \u00a316.13.4 Currency upon each Share. I then sold to Colo Hamilton 20290 Acres of Land at 7/6 Curry \u214c acre which at the Par of Exchange amounted to \u00a34565..5.. Stg and was to go according to his Agreement with me in part payment of the said Bank stock & for the Balance I gave a Bill on my Son in your favor being for \u00a35434..15 Stg. The 20290 Acres of Land sold to Colo Hamilton for your Account will now sell for thrice what I got for it and before he or I knew of the Agreement which took place between you and my Son, the Mortgage on the Philadelphia Estate was cancelled. I proposed & urged this being done because the sale of Lands paid nearly half the Debt due to you & because I had then good reason to expect that my Son to pay the Bill drawn upon him; & Colo Hamilton having the same Idea, was disposed to accomodate me, especially as I promised him to give a new Security for the Amot of the bill in case my Son could not pay it or if from any cause whatever the said Bill should not be paid. My Son finding after the failure of J. Warder & Co it would be inconvenient for him to pay that Bill and that the receipt of money from you for the Cost of the 20290 Acres of Land which I had sold to Colo Hamilton for you would be convenient to my Affairs in his hands, agreed with you to receive the Money for that Purchase & to commute the Original Debt contracted for 100 shares of Bank stock of the value of $40,000 Mexican to $100,000 of Deferred debt payable in February 1795 for which you demand $75000 Mexican with Interest of Six \u214c Cent \u214c Annum. Now sir, you will be good enough to attend to the Circumstance that the Mortgage was cancelled before Colo Hamilton or myself knew of the Agreement made by my Son Robert with you, consequently there was no violation of Faith or Friendship on my part nor any Neglect of Duty on the part of Colo Hamilton, who had obtained for you a real property of more Value than your stock, and my bill for \u00a35434..15 Stg for which I was liable and had promised him a new security if necessary. My Promises I hold Sacred and I am always willing to fulfill them. I have therefore given to Colo Hamilton my Bond for $81679. 44/100 payable in five Years from the 1st January last with six p Cent interest annually and an ample Security by Mortgage of Lands for the Payment of this Debt. I hope therefor that you will find cause to be Satisfied both with Colo Hamilton and myself, and in order to shew that your Money has not been unproductive I beg leave to submit to your Consideration the enclosed statemt, which I think ought to Satisfy any reasonable person.\nYou have threatened me with a Public sale of my North American Land Company Shares, which were entrusted to you by me in the expectation that they would on the terms of that Trust, have produced the discharge of my Debt, and it seems to me that the Act of transferring these Shares to your name ought to have convinced you that I never wished or designed you to be insecure. I disclaim any fears or Apprehensions from threats, and I will not use any, but as Colo Hamilton will advise you of our new arrangement and of the Security I have given, I must again request that you will transfer the 750 Shares in the North American Land Company to James Marshall Esqre or execute a power for him to transfer the same, being the shares which I had transferred to your name. Should Mrs. Church still remain in England, I pray you to present Mrs. Morris\u2019s and my thanks for her kind Attention to our Daughter and that you will also accept the Same yourself. Should she be on her Passage to this Country as it is said she is, we will thank her in person, and a grateful Remembrance of her and your kindness will ever be retained in our minds.\nMy feelings it is true have been wounded at some part of your letter which I conceive to be unnecessarily harsh, but Still I am desirous as you say to wind up this business amicably, and I hope it will be so terminated as that we shall remain good Friends.\nI am Sir \u2003 Yours &c.\nRM", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0112", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Charles Williamson, [17\u201330 May 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Williamson, Charles\nDr. Sir\nSome arrangements which I have lately made with Robert Morris Esquire for the benefit of my Brother in Law Mr. Church render it interest\u27e8ing\u27e9 to me to know from you the precise extent of the Western line of the tract of land you purchased of that Gentleman\u2014I mean a line which was run from the Pensylvania line to Lake Ontario\u2014by whom it was run, how far the accuracy of it may be depended upon\u2014and likewise what is the course of Lake Ontario Westward of that line? Is it ascertained whether it trends to the North or not and in what degree?\nHave you ever had occasion to get explored a tract of land formerly mortgaged by Mr. Morris to Col. Smith for security of money due to Smith as Agent for Messrs. Pultney & Hornby\u2014 extending with a breadth of six miles from Ontario to the Pensylvania line? If so what is the Nature of the land included in that tract North of the Pensylvania line to the distance of about 25 Miles?\nI will ask for the favor of you to keep the Inquiry to yourself. The more particularly you answer it, to the extent of your information, the more you will oblige me.\nWith great esteem & regard \u2003 I am sir \u2003 Your Obed ser\nWilliamson Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0114", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Morris, 18 May 1796\nFrom: Morris, Robert\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nAlex Hamilton Esqre. New York\nPhilada May 18, 1796\nDear Sir\nI wrote a letter last night to you & one to Mr Church, but as these must go by some private hand who will carry Safe my Bond & Mortgage I send this by Post to let you know that those papers are duly executed & the Mortgage acknowledged by Mrs Morris & myself before Judge Wilson. They shall be sent by the first safe Conveyance I can meet with by\nDr Sir \u2003 Yrs\nRM", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0115", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 20 May 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\nNew York May 20. 1796\nSir\nA belief that the occasion to which they may be applicable is not likely to occur, whatever may have been once intended, or pretended in terrorem, has delayed the following observations in compliance with your desire\u2014and which are now the result of conferences with the Gentleman you named.\nThe precise form of any proposition or demand which may be made to or of this Government must so materially influence the course proper to be pursued with regard to such proposition or demand, that it is very difficult by anticipation to judge what would be fit and right. The suggestions which can be submitted must therefore be very general and liable to much modification according to circumstances.\nI \u2003 It would seem in almost any case adviseable to put forward a calm exhibition of the views by which our Government have been influenced in relation to the present War of Europe\u2014making prominent the great interest we have in peace in our present infant state\u2014the limitedness of our capacity for external effort\u2014the much greater injury we should have suffered than good we could have done to France by taking an active part with her\u2014the probability that she would derive more advantage from our neutrality than from our direct aid\u2014the promptitude with which, while all the world was combined against her, we recognised the new order of things and the continuance of our Treaties & before any other power had done so\u2014the danger to which we exposed ourselves in so doing\u2014the fidelity with which we have adhered to our Treaties notwithstanding formal violations of certain parts of them on the other side\u2014our readiness to the utmost extent of our faculties to discharge our debt, without hesitation in the earliest period of the revolution, and latterly having facilitated an anticipated enjoyment of the ballance\u2014the zeal and confidence of our Merchants by which they are now creditors for very large sums to France\u2014the patience with which we have seen infractions of our rights\u2014the peculiar nature of the War as it regarded the origin of our relations to France (Quaere?)\u2014the declaration of the War by France against the martitime powers\u2014her incapacity for maritime effort and to supply our deficiency in that particular so as to render a war not absolutely ruinous to us\u2014the early expectations given to us by her Agents that we were not expected to become parties\u2014the exposed state of our commerce at this time with an immense property of our merchants afloat relying on the neutral plan which they have understood our Government to be pursuing even with the concurrence of France at least without its opposition\u2014the extreme mischiefs to us of a sudden departure from this plan & the little advantage to France from our aid\u2014the merely peace views which influenced our Treaty with Great Britain\u2014the nature of that treaty involving no ingredient of political connection reserving the obligation of our prior Treaties the commercial articles terminating in two years after the present war; nothing in it to change the nature of our relations to France. All this will of course require great caution & delicacy so as not to compromise the dignity of this Country or give umbrage elsewhere\u2014and I think observations ought to hold out the idea that under all the circumstances of the case the Government of this Country thought itself a full liberty consistently with its Treaties with France to pursue a neutral plan and they ought to hold up strongly our desire to maintain friendship with France, our regret that any circumstances of dissatisfaction should occur\u2014our hope that justice & reason will prevail & preserve the good understanding &c. The conclusion of this preliminary exposition will be according to the nature of the proposi[ti]on.\nIf it should claim a renunciation of the British Treaty\u2014The answer will naturally be that this sacrifice of the positive & recent engagements of the country is pregnant with consequences too humiliating and injurious to us to allow us to believe that the expectation can be persisted in by France since it is to require a thing impossible & to establish as the price of the continuance of Friendship with us the sacrifice of our honor by an act of perfidy which would destroy the value of our friendship to any Nation. That, besides, the Executive, if it were capable of complying with a demand so fatal to us, is not competent to it\u2014it being of the province of Congress by a declaration of War or otherwise in the proper cases to annul the operation of Treaties.\nIf it should claim the abandonment of the articles of the present Treaty respecting free ships free goods &c the answer may be\nThat our Treaties with France are an intire work parts of a whole\u2014that nevertheless the Executive is disposed to enter into a new negotiation by a new Treaty to modify them so as may consist with a due regard to mutual interest and the circumstances of parties and may even tend to strengthen the relations of friendship & good understanding between the Two Countries.\nIf the Guarantee of the West Indies should be claimed\u2014The answer may be\u2014\n\u201cThat the decision of this question belongs to Congress who if it be desired will be convened to deliberate upon it.\u201d I presume & hope they will have adjourned. For to \u27e8gain\u27e9 time is every thing.\nThe foregoing marks the general course of our reflections. They are sketched hastily because they can be only general ideas and much will depend on numerous circumstances.\nI observe what you say on the subject of a certain diplomatic mission. Permit me to offer with frankness the reflections which have struck my mind.\nThe importance to our security and commerce of good understanding with G Britain renders it very important that a man able and not disagreeable to that Government should be there. The Gentleman in question equally with any who could go & better than any willing to go answers this description. The idea hinted in your letter will apply to every man fit for the mission by his conspicousness talents and dispositions. \u2019Tis the stalking horse of a certain party & is made use of against every man who is not in their views & of sufficient consequence to attract their obloquy. If listened to, it will deprive the Government of the services of the most able and faithful agents. Is this expedient? What will be gained by it? Is it not evident that this party will pursue its hostility at all events as far as public opinion will permit? Does policy require any thing more than that they shall have no real cause to complain? Will it do, in deference to their calumniating insinuations to forbear employing the most competent men or to entrust the great business of the Country to unskilful unfaithful or doubtful hands? I really feel a conviction that it will be very dangerous to let party insinuations of this kind prove a serious obstacle to the employment of the best qualified characters. Mr. King is a remarkably well informed man\u2014a very judicious one\u2014a man of address\u2014a man of fortune and \u0153conomy whose situation affords just ground of confidence\u2014a man of unimpeached probity where he is best known\u2014a firm friend to the Government\u2014a supporter of the measures of the President\u2014a man who cannot but feel that he has strong pretensions to confidence and trust.\nI might enlarge on these topics but I have not leisure neither can it be necessary. I have thrown out so much in the fulness of my heart & too much in a hurry to fashion either the idea or the expression as it ought to be. The President however will I doubt not receive what I have said as it is meant\u2014as dictated by equal regard to the public interest & to the honorable course of his administration.\nI have the honor to be Very respectfully & affecty \u2003 Dr sir \u2003 Yr Obed ser\nA Hamilton\nThe President", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0116", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Elisha Boudinot, 23 May 1796\nFrom: Boudinot, Elisha\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nNew Ark [New Jersey] 23 May. 1796\nMy dear sir\nI am very happy that your endeavors to extricate Mr. Duer will occasion your so far investigating his affairs, as to enable you to do justice to a very injured character. When the misfortunes of life, or the frowns of fortune have thrown a man in the shade the generality of the world have too little feeling to investigate before they Judge, and too great a propensity to censure unheard, he is therefore at once condemned and kept in oblivion as long as malice & envy can have their effects. I know your conduct is swayed by entirely different motives; and that if convinced of the rectitude of a mans conduct, misfortunes will not prevent, but, urge, your helping hand to restore him to life again. It is this belief of your character that induces me to trouble you with what I know of my friend\u2019s conduct in his connection with Mr. Duer. I know his virtue, his integrity, his purity of intention, and therefore if the whole world should forsake him, I would support him to the utmost of my ability, trusting for his and my vindication, to that awfull day when the secrets of all hearts will be revealed.\nWhen Mr. Pintard first engaged in the line of a Broker, he was young, sanguine and full of spirits, his abilities soon introduced him to very handsome business. It was then Mr. Duer made a proposition to him, to go to Europe for him, offering him certain conditions. He consulted his Uncle, who was cautious, and had not the best opinion of Mr. D.\u2014he advised him against it\u2014he sent for me. I told him, to make out an account of the profits of his business for two Months then past, to go to Mr. D. shew it to him, and inform him, \u201cthat he had a young growing family, was inexperienced, and threw himself entirely on his generosity\u2014if he knew the business he wanted to send him upon, would be more advantageous to him than that in which he was in, he would go\u201d and I was confident Mr. D. as a man of science, character and liberality would never deceive him. He did so, and Mr. D\u2014\u2014 said at once, that his business was so good, he would not advise him to leave it and accept of his offers\u2014but that he would advise him to continue in the line he was in, and he would increase his business by giving him his own\u2014complaining that he had employed several agents who had made their own fortunes, and then turned their backs on him, and treated him with ingratitude. This frankness entirely won the heart of Mr. P\u2014\u2014 and he soon after engaged in his business; but as I understood the matter, not to become bound for him in any instance. The saturday after our return from organizing the manufacturing Society at Trenton, I received an express from Mr. P. that he wanted to see me; I went in, and found his Uncle with him in great distress\u2014saying that during the weeks absence of Mr. D. he had been called upon unexpectedly, to pay off several of his notes due at the bank, which Mr. D. had not given him any notice were due and that he might not be charged with ingratitude, in the absence of Mr. D\u2014\u2014 he had been induced to indorse notes, to redeem those at the bank\u2014and they wanted me to go to Mr. D. and endeavor to find out how his circumstances were &c. My answer was that from the little acquaintance I had with Mr D\u2014\u2014 I believed him to be a man of honor, delicacy and pride\u2014that he would feel himself hurt, at the Idea of Johnny\u2019s doubting his ability and his pride would be wounded at his communicating it to me\u2014that I would therefore advise him to go with the same openness and candour as at first and know from himself his true situation, and whether he was safe in what he had done for him. This advise he said he would follow\u2014and it being saturday afternoon, I left town. The result will appear in the extract of a few lines from two or three letters I received from him at that time which I kept, and which he does not know are in existence\u2014and which will be more forcible than pages of comments from me\u2014first giving an extract from a letter brought me by Mr. D. on his way to Trenton\u2014as an inlet to what followed.\n26 Novr. 1791. \u201cYou will find from Duer who is my friend & who has my best services; that his prospects are unbounded\u2014and were I to work night & day he alone wd. furnish me ample employment & that profitable. I have unbounded confidence in him, which I believe is reciprocal and I am determined to conduct myself in such a way by strict attention to my accounts that I will be a C\u00e6sars wife to him. I flatter myself he never was better served, I am sure never more honestly. I fear nothing whilst he has life, for as to resource he is a most wonderfull man, he is really an Atlas\u201d!\n4 Decr. 1791 (the day after I left him to follow the advice I mentioned before)\n\u201cI have spent the whole of this afternoon with Col. Duer, who dined with me. You will be kind eno. not to drop a lisp of my communications to you to any one else in the world. With respect to contingencies, I must risk the event, but he assures me that he is solid & immensely rich. My greatest risk is his not investigating his accounts with me and leaving every thing to my discretion. However I shall walk strait and trust to an upright conduct of his affairs for his approbation.\u201d\n6 Decr. 1791. \u201cCol. Duer spent yesterday evening with me, when we had a long conversation and full investigation of his business committed to me. From every circumstance, his assurance, and more his honor, I feel perfectly secure in committing myself to any extent on his account. I consider him next to yourself my best friend, and where I fix my confidence is unbounded. I find a reciprocal sentiment on his part, indeed what proof so clear, as laying himself entirely at my mercy; I trust the issue will prove his opinion of my Zeal & friendship not misplaced. I shall from this moment go forward into every engagement on his account with as much alacrity as ever I undertook anything in my life.\u201d\nI will not trouble you farther with extracts; these are sufficient to convince a candid mind; that he engaged in the business with a warm, inexperienced tho\u2019 sincere mind, and not that of a swindler or sharper. The consequence of this Zeal & confidence is too wellknown\u2014the sufferings, the torture of mind, as well as distress of body he has undergone for these four years past\u2014if known, would be sufficient to soften the hearts of his most obdurate creditors even those of a LeRoy & Bayard, altho\u2019 they ma\u27e8y\u27e9 suppose their hearts & feelings so incruscated with Gold, as to be impervious to the darts of distress & misfortune.\nI have informed Mr. P. of your wish to have a short journal of his endeavors to satisfy Mr. D. and his creditors which he will make out and forward you immediately. He has constantly offered to surrender every farthing he has in the world to his creditors that his worst enemies might be the assignees\u2014and that if ever it should appear a farthing was kept back, that the whole should be void. I am confident that if they had given him a letter of licence for ten years, from his exertions, he would have been enabled to have paid them all off\u2014but nothing short of his death appears will be satisfactory to them and they would have been gratified in that long ago, if his lott had been cast anywhere, but where it is.\nI should not have troubled you on any other subject with so long a letter but where humanity is engaged, I know, you will not only read it, but interest yourself in its behalf. If your endeavors fail\u2014I give up all hopes of any thing being done, until a general bankrupt law takes place\u2014and when that will be Heaven only knows. I do not choose to trust my Clerks to copy this and am too much hurried to do it myself\u2014you will therefore excuse the manner in which it comes.\nI am dear sir \u2003 with esteem \u2003 Your most Obt. Servt\nElisha Boudinot\nP. S. I set off tomorrow morning and shall be gone the remainder of the week, as soon as I return, will send \u27e8\u2013 \u2013 \u2013\u27e9 letter, if it is not forwarded before he will set about it, immediately.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0117", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Robert Morris, 26 May 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Morris, Robert\n[New York, May 26, 1796. On May 31, 1796, Morris wrote to Hamilton and referred to \u201cyour letter of the 26 Inst.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0119", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 27 May 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nNew York May 27. 1796\nDr. Sir\nThe Patterson manufactory being defunct, the persons heretofore employed are thrown out of business and among them Mr. Marshall who erected & directed the Cotton Mill. As this man has proved that he understands himself & is a discreet well-moralled man I am loth that he should be under the necessity of leaving the Country. He is a man of some education. Besides a considerable knowlege of mechanics & some of surveying he writes a good hand and good English. I have thought that perhaps temporarily some employment as a copying Clerk in some one of the Offices might be found for him. Can this be? Let me hear from you in answer as soon as may be. He is a decent man in his demeanour.\nYrs. truly\nA Hamilton\nOliver Wolcott Jur. Esq\nMr. Dickson, an American Citizen, by birth, who has been concerned in establishing & means to conduct in person the Cotton Manufactory at New Haven is desirous of contracting to supply the army with Cotton shirts of his own fabric. As I cannot help still hoping this manufacture may succeed in a scene so favourable to it as New Haven\u2014as it will have a fair chance under Mr. Dickson who is attentive industrious & has now had a good deal of experience, I think there would be a public policy in facilitating to him the supply he desires for a good proportion of the shirts which the army will require at a price which will allow a reasonable profit. This business may be detached from the general contract & be the subject of a particular agreement. Mr. Dickson assures greater strength & duration than India Cotton or than linnen. This idea may assist an experiment. General Knox made one of Cotton shirts & I understood him thought well of it.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0120", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Marquis de Fleury, 28 May 1796\nFrom: Fleury, Marquis de\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n\u00e0 paris le 28. May 1796.\nDear hamilton,\nI hope you have not quitte forgotten an old friend of yours; almost escaped to the misfortunes of our bloody revolution. I have preserved till now my head, but lost the greatest part of my fortune, and my most assured and important propriety is now, what is due to me by the united states.\nTill the year 1789 I have touched at paris, by the hands of their banker grand the interests of what was due to me by the united states.\nIn the year 1793 governor morris minister of the united states informed the french officers, that those who would not be paid in france, should declare it in writing to the banker grand. I made that declaration, and mr. grand transmitted it to mr. morris, & wrott at the extract signed j. nourse which is in my hands, that I should be paid in america.\nSince that time I have run so many dangers of all kinds, that I have not dared take any informations: and I depend now on your friendship, to learn, what I want very much to know about that affair: I hope you will not refuse your usefull services to your distressed friend.\n1st. I persist to desire that was is due to me by the united states remain in america, and be placed with safety, either in the bank, the Loan office, or otherwise.\n2e. I beg you would inquire, if what is due to me, is at the united states threasury, or in the bank, or in the Loan office, and if it is safe, and will be safe for the future.\n3e. If since 1789 that I have received none, it produces interets, and what interets?\n4e. If it would be possible to apoint either you or some of your honest friends to receive for me those interets in america in hard money: and transmit them to me in france by bills of exchange in hard money. I mean only the interets, for as to the Capital, I will Let it in america: as I may be obliged some day or other to return there, & should be happy to find something there, to buy a Corner of Land, and Cultivate it to Live quiet if not happy.\nas soon as I shall have received those kindly informations of you I shall sent to you, or to the person which you will propose my power, to receive the interets, place the total summ in the bank or Loan office, & send me annualy the interets in france, in hard money.\nI shall expect your answer with eagerness, as this affair is very important for me. You will be sensible of it.\nI have a great deal forgotten my american (I will not tell english) but I hope yet to be understood.\nMy adress is as follows, being only accidentaly at paris. \u201cau Citoyen fleury mar\u00e8chal de Camp retir\u00e8 par la fert\u00e8 sur marne \u00e0 jouar, d\u00e8partement de seine et marne.\u201d\nAdieu, be happy as much as I desire and you deserve it.\nfleury", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0123", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Tench Coxe, 31 May 1796\nFrom: Coxe, Tench\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhilad. May 31. 1796\nSir\nMr. Whelen & I do not understand that he had made a proposition to you to let Mr. Church take back what remains in their Hands of Mr. Church\u2019s original interest in the lands sold him & Company. You will find on a revision of my Letter of the 17th. inst. that it does not convey that Idea and you will perceive on reflection that it could not. The matter stood thus. When you were here at the supreme Court Mr. Whelen informed you I had made a proposition to take to a certain amount, being an undivided sixth or a sixth by lot of the whole lands, as well of those they bought of Patterson, as of those bought of me & Mr. Church & he offered that if I would take a third (instead of a sixth) they would agree to it & \u27e8tend\u27e9 the matter. Mr. Church would then have to receive his balance on the Accot. I told you that I feared that it might not suit me to buy so largely as my Engagements stood, but I would think of it. On reflexion I called upon Mr. Whelen & told him I would buy of them that undivided third part, which was of their whole 88 tracts as above. I could not expect Mr. Church to be concerned in this purchase, without he should give his assent because, besides the lands he & I owned together, and five lots more of the same parcel, which I owned long before Wheelen & Miller\u2019s application, there would be many others, which had never belonged to him or me, but were all those sold by Mr. Patterson. I hear Nothing from them in reply to my offer, but I mean to call as soon as Congress rises, and if I can, will finish the Business. No endeavour of mine has ever been wanting. I then offered you the whole balance that would be due if Wheelen & Co had paid, to be taken out of another parcel of lands Mr Church & I had taken up together in 1793 at 2\u00bc acres for one. Calling Whelen & Co\u2019s as cash \u00b9\u00b9\u2044\u2081\u2080\u2014the lands I would give would be about \u2075\u2044\u2083, tho the two parcels cost \u214c acre just the same.\nI am, sir, yr \u2003 obedient Servant\nT.C.\nAlexander Hamilton Esqr.Atty of J. B. Church Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0124", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Morris, 31 May 1796\nFrom: Morris, Robert\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nAlexander Hamilton EsqreNew York\nPhilada May 31. 1796\nDear Sir\nI am sorry that the Omission & inaccuracy of description in the Mortgage Deed as expressed in your letter of the 26 Inst. should have occasioned you any farther Trouble in Mr Churchs Business. The Omission of the name was owing to that Tract not having been conveyed to the parties for whom it was intended by Colo Ogden, who made an Agreement short of my terms the Object being to discharge thereby Colo Smiths Mortgage but as Colo Walker will not discharge the Mortgage I will not agree to the Bargain of Mr. Ogden as it was not consanant to my Orders either as to price or terms of Payment. I have therefore conveyed the Tract to Mr Garrett Cottringer whose name is now inserted in the new Mortgage executed by me, and as I want no other depositary than yourself I will send both Mortgages by the Young Gentn. you have sent hither. It may be well however to have a line from you declaratory that the two are for the same purpose & that the Payment of the Bond will discharge both. Accept my thanks for the friendly terms of your last letter and be assured of my constant regard.\nYrs.\nRM\nP.S. Suppose you were to make up a Company to purchase the 50,000 acres conveyed to Mr Cottringer, give me two Dollars \u214c acre, discharge Colo Smith\u2019s mortgage which is for 50,000 Dolls Six \u214c Cent stock and pay me the bal.? You will get four Dolls an acre in about 12 Mos. and Colo Walker will give longer credit than that I suppose, or I will sell at 2 Dolls \u214c acre as much as will discharge that Mortgage altho my Son Tom writes that Lands are risen so much that he advises me not to sell.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0125", "content": "Title: Design for a Seal for the United States, [May 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: \nA Globe with Europe and part of Africa on one side\u2014America on the other\u2014the Atlantic Ocean between. The portion occupied by America to be larger than that occupied by Europe. A Colossus to be placed on this Globe, with one foot on Europe, the other extending partly over the Atlantic towards America, having on his head a quintuple crown in his right hand an Iron-Sceptre projected but broken in the middle\u2014in his left hand a Pileus* reversed, the staff intwined by a snake with its head downward having the staff in its mouth and folding in its tail (as if in the act of strangling) a label with these words \u201cRights of Man.\u201d\nUpon a base, supported by fifteen columns, erected on the Continent of America, to be placed the Genius of America, represented by Pallas\u2014a female figure with a firm composed countenance, in an attitude of defiance, cloathed in armour with a golden breast plate, a spear in her right hand and an \u00c6gis or shield in her left, decorated with the scales of Justice instead of the Medusa\u2019s head\u2014her helmet incircled with wreaths of Olive\u2014her spear striking upon the Sceptre of the Colussus and breaking it obliquely over her head a radiated Crown or Glory.\nExplanation\nThe Globe is an antient symbol of universal Dominion. This, with the Colossus alluding to the Directory, will denote the project of acquiring it\u2014the position of one leg of the colussus will signify the attempt to extend it to America. The Columns will represent the American States. Pallas, as the Genius of America will denote, that though loving Peace (of which the Olive wreath is the emblem) yet guided by Wisdom, or an enlightened sense of her own rights and interests, she is determined to exert and does successfully exert her valour, in breaking the sceptre of the Tyrant. The Glory is the usual type of Providential interposition.\nIt would improve it if it did not render it too complicated to represent the Ocean in Tempest & Neptune striking with his Trident the projected leg of the Colussus.\nBut perhaps instead of all this it may suffice to have the figure of Pallas on horse back the harp placed on the Columns these on a small mount\u2014her spear breaking a Sceptre projected by a Herculean Arm.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0126", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James Watson, [May 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Watson, James\n[New York, May, 1796]\nDr Sir\nThe handsome general retainer you have offered me & the handsome manner in which the Offer is made claim my acknowlegement. But it will not consist with any rule of Action to avail myself of it. I have in other instances engaged for Individuals on these terms, to take as a retainer 100\u00a3 and afterwards to charge services performed at the established rates. Though it was my intention to avoid this in future, yet if you desire it, I will add you to the list. But it must except the priorities already incurred which are of William Constable Alexander Macombe LeRoy Bayard & McEvers Williamson of Genesee.\nYrs with esteem & regard\nA Hamilton\nP.S To prove to you however that I am not unmindful of my own interest I send you the following account\nTo opinion concerning arbitration Bond\nDs\u2003\u20035\nTo services in negotiating & settling your \u2003business with William Constable\nCr\nMarch 3\u2003 By Cash\nBallance due AH\nThe first 50 dollars I consider as a Retainer & for my opinion given at the time.\nJames Watson Esqr.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0127", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, [May\u2013August 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\n[New York, May\u2013August, 1796.] \u201cI have been applied to for an opinion concerning the Georgia Claim.\u2026 I will thank you for the Report of the Attorney General on that subject, to Congress.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0129", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 1 June 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\nNew York June 1. 1796\nSir\nYour letter of the 29th was delivered me by Mr. King yesterday afternoon. I thought I had acknowleged the Receipt of the paper inquired for in a letter written speedily after it\u2014or in one which transmitted you a draft of a certain letter by Mr. Jay. I hope this came to hand.\nI am almost afraid to appear officious in what I am going to say; but the matter presses so deeply on my mind that fearing you may not recollect the situation of the thing and that it may happen not to be brought fully under your eye, I cannot refrain from making the suggestion to you. It regards a Bill which I am told has lately passed the two houses of Congress authorising a sale of Bank Stock for paying off a sum due to the Bank. You will perceive by the 8th. and 9th Sections of the Act intitled \u201cAn Act making further provision for the support of public Credit and for the Redemption of the public Debt\u201d passed the 3d. of March 1795 that the dividends of the Bank Stock are appropriated to the Sinking Fund with all the force and solemnity of which language is capable and that to divert them in the manner proposed (and this too without any substitute in the act which so diverts) will be a formal express and unequivocal violation of the public faith\u2014will subvert the system of the Sinking Fund and with it all the security which is meant to be given to the people for the Redemption of the Public Debt, and, violating the sanctity of an appropriation for the public Debt, will overturn at once the foundation of Public Credit. These are obvious and undeniable consequences, and though I am aware that great embarrassments may ensue to the Treasury, if the Bill by the objection of The President is lost and no substitute for it takes place towards the reimbursement of the Bank\u2014Yet I am sure no consequences can ensue of equal moment from the rejection as from the principle of the Bill going into execution. All the Presidents administration has effected for establishing the Credit of the Country will be prostrate at a single blow. He will readily make all the necessary comments upon this position. It grieves my heart to see so much shocking levity in our Representative Body.\nMost respectfully & Affecty I remain \u2003 Sir Yr very \u2003 obed Ser\nA Hamilton\nThe President of the U States", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0131", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Lawrence Kercado, 6 June 1796\nFrom: Kercado, Lawrence\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhiladelphia, June 6, 1796. States that he is the Vicomte de Kercado, a cadet member of the princely family of Rohon in Brittany, that he had lived in Santo Domingo, that he had come to Charleston, South Carolina, in 1791, and that he and his family are now living at Elizabeth, New Jersey. States that he has given orders for his property in Santo Domingo to be sold and that he wishes to go there to settle his affairs. Asks Hamilton to urge President Washington to grant him a Government commission which would assure him a safe passage to and from Santo Domingo and suggests that he be named agent for obtaining the release of American sailors imprisoned by the British.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0133", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jonathan Williams, 8 June 1796\nFrom: Williams, Jonathan\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhiladelphia, June 8, 1796. \u201cI thank you for your friendly offer and, in conformity, request you to let me know what proposals Mr Macomb is willing to make. My Demand is $17530 Dollars, being the difference arising on the unperformed Contract made with me by Mr. Duer on the Companys acct. agreeably to the terms of the partnership. I bought the $50000 six \u214c Cents and paid for them in specie $63250. Dollars. The stock was tendered and the tender duely acknowledged on the Day the Contract became due. At that time the stock would not sell for its nominal amount, so that I am a real sufferer in the sum of $13250.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0134", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Robert Morris, 9 June 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Morris, Robert\n[New York, June 9, 1796. On the June 17, 1796, Morris wrote to Hamilton and referred to \u201cyour favor of the 9th.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0135", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 9 June 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nNew York June 9. 1796\nDr. Sir\nI called at your house the morning of my departure but you was not then up. While I was in the City we had a little conversation concerning an affair of an arrangement with Swan for effecting a remittance to Holland. I intended to have resumed it for two reasons, one because it has been represented to the disadvantage of the Conduct of the Treasury, another because Swan who lodged at the same house with me begged me to converse with you on the subject and give my opinion both to you & him of what I thought of the matter. The latter I should of course have managed with due regard to all prudential considerations.\nBut I wished chiefly to apprise you that it is industriously circulated that Monroe & Skipwith, as Agents for the Treasury received Swan\u2019s money at Paris to remit to Holland, that they mismanaged the fund, produced besides delay, loss\u2014and that the Treasury now endeavours to turn the loss on Swan. If you have not been apprized of this it is requisite you should be.\nYrs. truly\nA Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0136", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 14 June 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhila. June 14th. 1796\nDear Sir\nI am oblidged to you for the intimation in your Letter of the 9th. instant. I have known for some time that Mr. Swan has misrepresented my conduct\u2014he knows that I have more than fullfilled my Contract, that it was an express agreement, that the risque & expence of transmitting the money from Paris to Amsterdam should be borne by him\u2014that Mr. Monroe was a mutual Agent, not the Agent of the Treasury\u2014that we neither of us intended that Mr. Skipwith should meddle with the business\u2014& that the opinion of the Attorney General is against throwing the loss upon the United States.\nIt is true that there has been great mismanagement & delay & some loss, but it is not my fault, nor am I responsible for it. I am now paying as fast as the Treasury will admit, though nothing can yet be demanded according to Contract.\nThe plan of the French & our Patriots begins to develope, the history of the Captives of the Mount Vernon, & the apology or rather hypothesis offered in Mr Baches paper of this morning are important facts when taken in connection with what we before knew. If more seizures shall be made, or if Mr. Adet shall not give a satisfactory explanation, I do not see but that Mr. M must be recalled & a special confidential Minister sent. A short time will enable us to judge. I shall be glad to know your opinion of what is to be done\u2014if a Minister is sent, who should it be?\nMr. Dawson a confidential Clerk will be in New York a few days hence, to endeavour to ascertain whether or not Mr. Duer retains certain papers respecting the seven ranges of townships. I will thank you to give him such advice as may be proper.\nI am ever yrs\nOliver Wolcott\nA. Hamilton Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0137", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Lowell, Junior, 15 June 1796\nFrom: Lowell, John, Jr.\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Boston, June 15, 1796. An entry in H\u2019s Law Register, 1795\u20131804, under the date of June 20, 1796, reads: \u201cSee Letter Lowel June 15.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0139", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [16 June 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n[New York, June 16, 1796]\nSir\nI have received information this morning of a nature which I think you ought to receive without delay. A Mr. Le Guen, a Frenchman, a client of mine and in whom I have inspired confidence, and who is apparently a discreet and decent man, called on me this morning to consult me on the expediency of his becoming naturalized, in order that certain events between France and the U States might not prejudice him in a suit which I am directed to bring for him for a value of 160,000 Dollars. I asked him what the events to which he alluded were. He made me the following reply under the strictest injunctions of confidence. \u201cI have seen a letter from St Thonax to Mr. Labagarde of this City informing him that a plan was adopted to seize all American vessels carrying to any English Port provisions of any kind to conduct them into some French Port, if found to be British property to condemn them, if American, to take them on the accountability of the Government\u2014adding that he must not thence infer that it was the intention to make war upon the U States\u2014but it was with a view to retaliate the conduct of Great Britain, to keep supplies from her, and to obtain them for themselves, and was also bottomed on some political motives not necessary to be explained. That it was also in contemplation when Admiral Richery arrived, if the Ships could be spared to send five sail of the line to this Country.\u201d Fearing he said that this might produce a rupture between the two Countries he had called to consult me on the subject &c.\nI asked his permission to make the communication to you. He gave me leave to do it, but with the absolute condition that the knowlege of names was on no account to go beyond you and myself. I must therefore request Sir that this condition be exactly observed. He has promised me further information.\nI believe the information, as well because the source of it under all the circumstances engages my confidence, as because the thing appears in itself probable. France wants supplies and she has not the means of paying & our Merchants have done creditting.\nIt becomes very material that the real situation should as soon as possible be ascertained & that the Merchants should know on what they have to depend. They expect that the Government will ask an explanation of Mr Adet & that in some proper way the result will be made known.\nIt seems to become more and more urgent that the U States should have some faithful organ near the French Government to explain their real views and ascertain those of the French. It is all important that the people should be satisfied that the Government has made every exertion to avert Rupture as early as possible.\nMost respectfully & Affect \u2003 I have the honor to be \u2003 Sir \u2003 Yr. Obed serv\nA Hamilton\nThe President of the U States", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0140", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 16 June 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\n[New York] June 16. 1796\nDr. Sir\nIt appears to me material under our present prospects to complete the three frigates without delay. They may be useful with reference to the Algerines\u2014they may be useful to convoy our vessels out of the reach of pickeroon privateers hovering on our Coast. I know you want money but could not the Merchants by secret movements be put in motion to make you a loan. I think something of this kind may be done here & I should presume at Philadelphia &c. The sole ostensible object may be the Algerines but the second object may circulate in whispers. If you conclude on any thing I will second you.\nPerhaps no bad form of the thing may be to place in the hands of your Agents for building Treasury Bills from 100 to 1000 Dollars payable in a year with interest & to let it be known among the Merchants that they are lodged exclusively to facilitate the equipment of the Ships. But a more direct operation may be attempted & I should hope with success for the sum you may want for the frigates.\nYrs\nA Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0141", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Walter Livingston, 17 June 1796\nFrom: Livingston, Walter\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Livingston Manor, New York] June 17, 1796. \u201cIn examining my fathers papers yesterday I found a receipt of yours in the following words Viz. Received New York June 8. 1786 of Robert C. Livingston Esquire Twenty five Dollars as a retainer for the Manor of Livingston. Alex Hamilton. I have taken the liberty to mention this because my brother, Henry who is gone down with an intention to endeavour to procure your assistance in some of his ejectment Causes against his & Johns Tenants in the Manor which will be tried in July term at Albany\u2014applied to me for information respecting the retainer.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0143", "content": "Title: Receipt to Pierre Van Cortlandt, Junior, [17 June 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Van Cortlandt, Pierre, Jr.\n[New York, June 17, 1796]\nReceived of Pierre Van Cortlandt Jun Esqr Two hundred Dollars on account of his fathers bond.\nJune 17. 1796A Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0144", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 17 June 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhiladelphia June 17th. 1796\nMy Dear Sir,\nI have your Letters of the 15th. & 16th. instant\u2014that for the President will go on by the next mail.\nThe affair of the Capture assumes a more equivocal character as respects the French Government than at first. In a confidential way from some of our Merchants I have reason to believe, that proposals were made to Mr. Murgatroy who built the Ship, by a Mr. Dunkinson an English Gentleman not yet naturalised, to become the purchaser, that Dunkinson on finding that he could not obtain a Register in his own name, made a conditional purchase of the Vessell deliverable in England; after which the Vessell was registered in Murgatroyds name. That the Loading though in the names of Willings & Francis is in fact British property & that these circumstances, were known or strongly suspected by the owner of the French Privateer. If these things are true, & the sole motives of the Capture, the thing though perhaps wrong, is not alarming. I do not find that any other capture has been made.\nMr. Adet I understand has written to Colo. Pickering that the Privateer was Commissioned by the French Government of Sn. Domingo, but that he is ignorant what the orders of the Privateer are, or what orders the French directory in the West Indies are authorised to give in respect to Neutral Vessells. This answer is neither satisfactory nor the contrary\u2014it is nothing\u2014except that it leaves ground to suspect that the West India Directory possess some discretionary authority, which may be used to distress us, if circumstances should render it expedient. What now gives me more concern than the capture, is the compliance of Baches paper, which is I think calculated to prepare the public mind, to expect a new course of conduct by the French, contrary to our Treaty, & distressing to our Commerce.\nI have for some time been inclined to think that Mr. Munroe ought to be recalled, but as others have doubted, & as the thing was not demonstrable I have not urged it, every event shews however new reasons for believing, that we must stop the channells by which foreign poison is introduced into our Country or suffer the government to be overturned\u2014at all hazards the attempt must be made.\nI have the power of the President to borrow, & have been making attempts in the manner you have intimated but without prospect of success. Bills can only be used in a case of the utmost emergency, as the discount would be ruinous. I will however carry on the public business this summer some way or other\u2014though I know that we shall ultimately fail, unless some miraculous change in public measures, shall speedily take place.\nI will write you if any thing occurs.\nyrs. truly\nOliv. Wolcott Jr\nAlexander Hamilton Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0145", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Angelica Church, [19\u201320 June 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Church, Angelica\nDear Angelica\nIf you knew the power you have to make happy You would lose no opportunity of writing to Betsey & me; for we literally feast on your letters.\nBut our impatience increases as the prospect becomes more promising; and you must permit us ever to chide Mr. Church for his tardiness. Expectations must be converted into realities. Life is too short to warrant procrasti[nati]on of the most favourite and precious objects.\nTis not easy that you and I should differ in any thing. On a certain subject we agree. And though I am in a minority here\u2014It is gaining strength. Your Countrymen are zealous but they are not mad. All will go well here. Our own Jacobins have made a violent effort against me, but a complete victory has been gained to their utter confusion.\nYrs. as much as you desire\nAH", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0148", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Ricketts, 24 June 1796\nFrom: Ricketts, James\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nElizabethtown [New Jersey] June 24, 1796. \u201cEnclosed are the extracts of Mr. Jackson\u2019s letters, which you desired me to send you.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0149", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Angelica Church, [25 June 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Church, Angelica\n[New York, June 25, 1796]\nI cannot omit the opportunity My Dear Angelica of dropping you a line by your old acquaintance Colonel Noble to inform you that we are all well, strongly agitated between Fear and Hope, but anxiously wishing for your Return. If you are not persuaded that this is one of the dearest objects to Eliza & myself you do us much injustice. The only rivalship we have is in our attachment to you and we each contend for preeminence in this particular. To whom will you give the apple?\nI wrote you last by Mr. King who sailed a few days since for London as our Minister Plenipotentiary. You must not think the less well of him for not being a Jacobin\u2014for he is a very clever fellow and will do credit to your Country. He will not give me the trouble of defending any Treaty of his making\u2014for to be sure of everybody\u2019s approbation he is instructed to do nothing but after a previous consultation with you. What do you say to this Madam? Will it have no charm for your \u2014\u2014? But I had forgotten. You have none.\nHis better self accompanies him. She has not the proverb in her favour \u201cThe nearer the bone &c.\u201d But I dare say she is sweet enough.\nHow do you manage to charm all that see you? While naughty tales are told to you of us, we hear nothing but of your kindness, amiableness, agreeableness &c. Why will you be so lavish of these qualities upon those who forget them in six weeks & withold them from us who retain all the impressions you make, indelibly? But so the world goes. And we must submit to Destiny.\nWhen we last heared from Albany all your family were well. Your father was gone to Fort Schuyler.\nWe have sent you by different opportunities sketches of your house & lot. I repeat them under cover to Mr. Church.\nAdieu \u2003 Yr. ever Affect friend\nA Hamilton\nEliza will write by this opportunity or at least I trust add a postscript. Yet She continues lazy at the pen.\nJune 25th.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0150-0001", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Peter Goelet, 25 June 1796\nFrom: Goelet, Peter\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nAlex Hambleton\nN York June 25 1796\nSir\nI have found Your Deeds for the Lands You Mentioned but no Receipt or other Papers with it.\nInclosed have a Copy of that part of the Conditions of the Sales You Request.\nI am with Respt S Y Vy\nP Goelet", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0150-0002", "content": "Title: Enclosure: [Conditions of the Sales of the Lands], [25 June 1796]\nFrom: American Iron Company\nTo: \nThe Conditions of the Sales of the Lands belonging to the Am Iron Compy on the 10. 11 & 18 Decemr. 1795 was Vizt\nTo be paid to Peter Goelet on or before 11 OClock to Morrow Morning\nOn the first tuesday in April next with Lawfull Intrest.\nOn the first tuesday in October next with Lawfull Intrest.\nAnd the Residue on or before the first tuesday in April 1797 with Lawfull Intrest.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0152", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, [26 June 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\n[New York, June 26, 1796]\nDr. Sir\nI learn from a Gentleman of character that a prize brought into Boston by a French Privateer is about to be sold. This being in direct breach of our Treaty with G Britain how does it happen? Though no particular law passed, the Treaty being the law of the land, Our custom houses can & ought to prevent the entry & sale of prizes, upon Executive instruction. If any thing is wanting to this end for god sake, My Dr. Sir, let it be done & let us not be disgraced.\nYrs.\nA HamiltonJune 26, 1796", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0153", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Peter Goelet, 27 June 1796\nFrom: Goelet, Peter\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nMr. Alexr Hambleton\nNew York June 27 1796\nSir\nAccording to Your Request I have examind the Accounts and find that You paid the first Instalment on the 17 of December 1795\nis\nThe Second payment on the 6 April 1796\nDs\nWith Sentiments of Respect I am\nSir Your Most Humble Servant\nPeter Goelet", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0154", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Morris, 27[\u201330] June 1796\nFrom: Morris, Robert\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nAlexander Hamilton Esqre\ndear Sir\nYour favor of the 20th I have received & will most chearfully comply with your requisition by remitting $1500 which if I can shall go in this letter and if in the Course of my negotiations I can meet with notes or drafts upon New York suitable for the remaining Payment they shall be sent you, but if I do not obtain Such you may rely that I will fulfill my Promise in regard to that Payment or it shall be as you propose half in six & half in 12 mos.\nYrs.\nRM\nJune 30 \u2003 I could not bear to send this without the $1500. You will find herein a draft of Joseph Higbee upon  at 30 days for that sum you can get it discounted & charge me with the Cost letting me know the amount. You will see by this that I did not neglect you altho\u2019 you did not receive it immediately.\nRM", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0157", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 5 July 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\nNew York July 5. 1796\nSir\nI was in due time favoured with your letter of the 26 June & consulted the Gentleman you name on the subjects of it.\nWe are both of opinion there is no power in the President to appoint an Envoy Extraordinary, without the concurrence of the senate, & that the information in question is not a sufficient ground for extraordinarily convening the senate. If however the President from his information collectively be convinced that a dangerous state of things exists between us & France and that an envoy extraordinary to avert the danger is a necessary measure, I believe this would in the sense of the constitution warrant the calling of the Senate for the purpose. But this measure may be questionable in point of expediency, as giving a stronger appearance of danger than facts warrant. If further depredations on our commerce take place, if new avowals of the principle of the last capture should appear, it may alter the case. But without something more the measure would scarcely seem adviseable.\nMr. Jay & Myself though somewhat out of your question talked of the expediency of removing Monroe, and though we perceive there are weighty reasons against it, we think those for it preponderate\u2014if a proper man can be found. But here we feel both immense embarrassment, for he ought to be at the same time a friend to the Government & understood to be not unfriendly to the French Revolution. General Pinckney is the only man we can think of who fully satisfies the idea, & unfortunately every past experiment forbids the hope that he would accept\u2014though but for a short time. But if a character of tolerable fitness can be thought of, it would seem expedient to send him. At any rate it is to be feared, if under the symptoms of discontent which have appeared on the part of the French Government, no actual & full explanation takes place, it will bring serious censure upon the Executive. It will be said that it did not display as much zeal to avoid misunderstanding with France as with G Britain\u2014that discontents were left to rankle\u2014that if the Agent of the Government in France was negligent or unfaithful some other mode ought to have been found &c.\nAs to your resignation, Sir, it is not to be regretted that the declaration of your intention should be suspended as long as possible & suffer me to add that you should really hold the thing undecided to the last moment. I do not think it is in the power of party to throw any slur upon the lateness of your declar[a]tion. And you have an obvious justification in the state of things. If a storm gathers, how can you retreat? This is a most serious question.\nThe proper period now for your declaration seems to be Two months before the time for the Meeting of the Electors. This will be sufficient. The parties will in the mean time electioneer conditionally, that is to say, if you decline\u2014for a serious opposition to you will I think hardly be risked.\nI have completed the first draft of a certain paper & shall shortly transcribe correct & forward it. I will then also prepare & send forward without delay the original paper corrected upon the general plan of it so that you may have both before you for a choice in full time & for alteration if necessary.\nWith true respect & Affect Attachment I have the hon to remain Sir \u2003 Yr very Obed ser\nA Hamilton\nThe Presi of the U States", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0159", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Elias Boudinot, 7 July 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Boudinot, Elias\n[New York] July 7. 1796\nMy dear Sir\nYou will oblige me by letting me have an Extract from that part of your Mortgage law in New Jersey which regulates the mode of cancelling Mortgages\u2014also an extract from the Registering Book of the usual manner in which entries for cancelling were made about the years 1771, 1772 and 1773\u2014and by informing me whether these Entries have been adjudged conclusive\u2014though the order or certificate of the Mortgage is not to be found, the Mortgage money not paid, and the fact should appear that the Entry was a fraudulent act of the Registering Officer?\nExcuse the trouble I give you and use me freely in a like case.\nHow are your Election prospects? Do not let the discontent with Dayton hazard the main point. \u2019Tis better by a coalition with him to secure that, though you make some sacrifice of opinion, than to produce a dangerous schism.\nOur affairs are critical, and we must be dispassionate and wise.\nYours truly\nA. Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0160", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from David Hunter, 7 July 1796\nFrom: Hunter, David\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nMartinburgh, Virginia, July 7, 1796. \u201cA cause is now depending before the Supreme Court of the United States on an appeal from the Circuit Court of the United States for the district of Virginia, wherein I am Appellant & Denny Fairfax Appellee.\u2026 I am informed that you practise in the supreme Court. I shoud therefore thank you to inform me whether you will undertake the Cause for me for a fee of Four Hundred dollars certain & made up to a Thousand if you succeed, or, if you think you can establish my right to the Land, I will give it to you as a Fee. It is worth about Two Thousand dollars. Mr. Marshall of this State & the Attorney General of the United States Mr. Lee will argue the cause on behalf of Fairfax.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0161", "content": "Title: Conveyance from Isaac and Hannah Riley, 7 July 1796\nFrom: Riley, Isaac,Riley, Hannah\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nNew York, July 7, 1796. \u201cIsaac Riley and Hannah his wife for \u2026 the Sum of Two thousand Dollars \u2026 have granted \u2026 unto the Said Alexander Hamilton \u2026 eight certain Lots of Land \u2026 in the Seventh Ward.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0162", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, [7 July 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\n[New York, July 7, 1796]\nDr Sir\nI have had some conversation with some influential Members of the Bank of New York who are disposed to do all that shall be found possible. But I wish to know without exaggeration the least sum that will be a material relief to you & when & how the payments will be desired.\nYrs.\nA HamiltonJuly 7. 1796\nOliver Wolcott Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0163", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, [8 July 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\n[New York, July 8, 1796]\nDr. Sir\nI have just received your letter of the 6th. The idea of selling Bank Stock is the worst of all & can only be urged on a plan of private speculation. Acquiescence may tempt the Bank to oppress hereafter for speculation purposes. I have talked to some Directors of the Bank of New York conformably to your first suggestion, respecting the deposit of Stock & it will not be expedient to change ground. The term of Credit I mentioned too was six months. You may safely deposit with the Bank of New York the directors of which would not sell at a sacrifice to the public without necessity. But confidence in the Government is impaired, and in addition, the Directors are apprehensive of falling too much under the power of the Bank of the U States. They will therefore want the deposit to give certainty to the operation.\nI wait to have from you some idea of what sum will be a relief & when & how it will be wanted. As far as you can pospone transferrs from the B of NY to the B of the U States it will be comfortable to them. I have said nothing as yet of interest.\nYrs\nA HamiltonJuly 8th\nO Wolcott Jnr Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0165", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Gerard Bancker, 12 July 1796\nFrom: Bancker, Gerard\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nNew York, July 12, 1796. \u201cI am content to dispense with Mrs. Rickets giving the Security you mention in your Note. As Executors, Mr Livingston & Myself have paid her Considerable Sums without thinking that kind of Security Necessary.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0166", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Philip Schuyler, 14 July 1796\nFrom: Schuyler, Philip\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nAlbany, July 14, 1796. \u201cThe messenger with whom I sent Mr Morris\u2019s Mortgage returned whilst I was at Fort Schuyler with a letter from the Clerk advising me that so many mortgages had been presented that he could not register the one in question so as to return It by the Messenger, but that as soon as he had done it, he would send It by a safe hand.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0167", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, [15 July 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: McHenry, James\n[New York, July 15, 1796]\nMy Dear Sir\nI have considered the articles of War & rather think the case is not provided for by them. I incline to the opinion that The President ex officio as Commander in Chief has power to order a General Court Martial. But the exercise of this power would be liable to too much question & Criticism to be expedient.\nWhat then is to be done? The President has a right to dis\u27e8miss\u27e9 Military Officers as holding their Comm\u27e8issions\u27e9 during pleasure\u2014but the delicacy of the military character requires that \u27e8\u2013 \u2013\u27e9 should be exercised with Great Cauti\u27e8on\u27e9 & not till after very full investigation.\nWhat then? When the Charges come forward let them be communicated to the Commanding General & he called upon to reply particularly to them. If there are facts to be proved & by persons with the army let three or five judicious Officers with the aid of the Judge Advocate & a Magistrate if to be had to administer oaths, be charged to collect testimony for the information of the Department of War to be laid before the President. Let the accuser & the accused be notified to attend the examination of the Witnesses to cross examine &c & let their testimony reduced to Writing by the Referrees or Commissioners with the Judge Advocate & certified by them with the observations of the Accuser & accused be transmitted to the War office & laid before the President who can afterwards act according to circumstances.\nThis is the best I can think of.\nBut you must by all means avoid the imputation of evading the inquiry & protecting a favourite.\nAdieu \u2003 Yrs tr\nA HamiltonJuly 15 1796\nHave you devised any mean of ensuring an ex[p]lanation to the French Government? If it be not done & any thing amiss happens, I dont know what will befall you all.\nJs Mc.Henry Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0169", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, [15 July 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\n[New York, July 15, 1796]\nDr. Sir\nThe application for a loan from the Bank of New York though powerfully supported by some of the leading directors labours; owing to the jealousy & narrowness of certain ones who see in it a plan to increase the active capital of the Branch Bank & put them in its power. Unluckily the President suddenly went off to R Island with his wife & some sick Children. I pursue the affair & I hope still to accomplish it.\nThere will be no difficulty in obtaining a postponement of the existing loan. But this I tell them will not be sufficient.\nYrs.\nAHJuly 15\nOliver Wolcott Jun. Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0170", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Timothy Pickering, 16 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhiladelphia July 16. 1796.\nDear Sir,\nMr. Howell, the Commissioner for settling the St. Croix boundary, has been here this week, & started the following questions.\n1. \u201cHow far will it be proper for Mr. Howell to use his discretion in refusing to draw lots for the third Commissioner, in case the British Commissioner shall persist in proposing a gentleman on his part who may be, in Mr. Howell\u2019s opinion, not an indifferent person?\u201d\n2. \u201cIn case inhabitants of Massachusetts are thought objectionable on the part of the British, will not all inhabitants of New Brunswick & Nova Scotia be also, if not equally, objectionable?\u201d\n3. \u201cWhether the authority of the commissioners can be legally executed, unless the three commissioners sign the declaration required of them by the treaty?\u201d In other words, Whether if any two of the Commissioners agree, they can finally decide the question?\nI had previously received from Mr. Sullivan (the agent for the U States) a letter stating the interview between Mr. Howell & Mr. Barclay at Boston; in which it appeared that Mr. Barclay considered the appointment of a Commissioner from Massachusetts would be improper, because there was not one from New Brunswick. Yet (Judge Sullivan remarks) Nova Scotia, where Mr. Barclay resides, may be considered as a party, seeing he said that he could not take any steps towards the appointment of a third commissioner, until he consulted Sir John Wentworth, the Governor of that province, on the subject, as well as the governor of New Brunswick. Judge Sullivan further remarks, \u201cthat the lands in New-Brunswick he considers as owned by proprietors in Nova Scotia, as those in Vermont are by proprietors in New-Hampshire; and that therefore Commissioners in New-Brunswick would be as eligible as in Nova-Scotia.\u201d\nBut the most unpleasant part of Judge Sullivan\u2019s information is, \u201cThat though the third commissioner is to be nominated and chosen or drawn by the two original commissioners, Mr. Barclay does not consider himself as acting judicially in the business, or as equally responsible to both nations on the point; but considers the appointment as a matter of negociation between the parties, and that any advantages which may be gained will be honourable.\u201d Mr. Howell also informed me that Mr. Barclay did avow this extraordinary opinion: and if it were a just one, as founded on the treaty, it had been better to decide the question by the cast of a die: but \u2019tis so repugnant to the oath which each commissioner is to take, it is impossible that it should be the true construction of the article. I suppose it was chiefly the avowal of this principle, on the part of Mr. Barclay, that led Mr. Howell to propose his first quere: for while he should propose for the decision of the choice of the third commissioner by lot, a gentleman belonging to another state than Massachusetts, in order to obtain a disinterested judge, it would be with extreme repugnance that he would admit the name of an inhabitant of New Brunswick or Nova Scotia, on account of the direct interest of the former, & the probable interest of the latter, as above suggested by Judge Sullivan; especially as Nova Scotia already furnishes one of the Commissioners. If then it will consist with good faith to refuse to draw lots, on so partial a nomination by Mr. Barclay, it is desirable that it might be done. In a report made to Congress by Mr. Jay, in April 1785, on this subject, he proposed that his Britannic Majesty should name his half of the Commissioners, \u201cbeing inhabitants of any of his dominions except those which are situated in & to the west and south of the gulph of St. Lawrence, and that the U. States should name the other half from any of their countries, except Massachusetts.\u201d The whole number of Commissioners then contemplated by Mr. Jay was 6. 8. 10. or 12.\nThe 3d question asked by Mr. Howell is in itself, as well as for the reasons contained in the preceding observations, highly important. The words in the article are \u201cThe said commissioners shall by a declaration under their hands & seals decide what river is the river St. Croix intended by the treaty:\u201d Not the said Commissioners or any two of them agreeing. What is the legal construction of this article on this point? No such question arises on the 6th and 7th articles, any three of the five commissioners being competent to a decision, the fifth commissioner being present. On one hand if unanimity be necessary, it will enable either party to counteract any flagrant partiality; on the other, it may defeat a great object of the article\u2014putting a final end to a dispute that might have disagreeable consequences. Permit me to request your attention to this subject, and that you would converse with Mr. Jay upon it. In the course of two or three days I expect Mr. Howell will call on you both at New York.\nI am very respectfully & affectionately yours\nT. Pickering.\nAlexander Hamilton Esqr.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0171", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Tilghman, 16 July 1796\nFrom: Tilghman, William\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia, July 16, 1796. On July 18, 1796, Hamilton wrote to Tilghman: \u201cI am favoured with your letter of the 16 instant.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0173", "content": "Title: Alexander Hamilton and Richard Harison to Richard Bayley, 19 July 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander,Harison, Richard\nTo: Bayley, Richard\nNew York 19th. July 1796.\nSir\nWe have looked into the Act to prevent the bringing in & spreading of Infectious Diseases in this State. By one of its provisions every Vessel arriving from parts beyond Sea, having on Board forty passengers, is subject to Quarantine of Cause, & may be removed to the place assigned for the same. We think that where the numbers of passengers is so great, the Health Officer may take a reasonable Time to satisfy himself as to the Danger of Infection from such Vessel\u2014And of Course any prudent arrangements may be made in the Interim by Consent of parties. The Captain or owners of the Vessel would be subject to the Charges of Quarantine\u2014other Expences must be provided for in some other Manner.\nWe are respectfully, Sir, \u2003 Your Obedt Servts.\nAlex HamiltonRich: Harison\nDr Richard BayleyHealth Officer &ca.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0174", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Timothy Pickering, [21 July 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n[New York, July 21, 1796]\nDear Sir\nI communicated your letter to Mr. Jay & now give you our joint sense.\nConsidering the nature of the transaction and what must necessarily have been presumed to be the intent, & that the authority is on a public subject & between two nations, we think that a decision by two out of three commissioners must be sufficient.\nWe know nothing but an immediate personal interest in property which may be affected by the decision, that can be a conclusive objection to the person nominated\u2014but this interest must be known not suspected. The rest must be matter of negotiation. In point of propriety neither Government ought to name a person, liable from local situation to the suspicion of particular interest or byass. But one cannot formally object to the nomination of the other on this general ground.\nDeclarations like those ascribed to Mr. Barkely, if well authenticated & unequivocal, importing clearly that he thought himself at liberty to gain advantages & not bound to act impartially would justify the Government in stopping & representing the matter to the British Government. But we ought to act with great caution not to give occasion to impute to us a spirit of procrastination or subterfuge. Tis so much more important that the dispute should be settled than how it is settled (at least according to my idea of the object) that we should by no means seek for difficulties but rather facilitate than impede.\nYrs. respectfully & truly\nA HamiltonJuly 21. 1796\nT Pickering Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0175", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Tilghman, 23 July 1796\nFrom: Tilghman, William\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia, July 23, 1796. Tilghman endorsed a letter from Hamilton, dated July 18, 1796: \u201cansd. 23 July.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0176", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 26 July 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia, July 26, 1796. On July 30, 1796, Hamilton wrote to Wolcott and acknowledged \u201cthe Receipt of your letter of the 26th.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0177", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Greenleaf, 27 July 1796\nFrom: Greenleaf, James\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nAlexander Hamilton Esqr.\nNew York July 27th. 1796\nDear Sir,\nThe indispensible necessity of an immediate tho\u2019 short respite from business united with Motives of Interest and an unbounded Attachment to reputation induce me to make a proposition to you of a pretty extraordinary Nature but which after due Reflection I flatter myself will be deemed not unworthy your Attention. My engagements of every possible Nature do not exceed Twelve Hundred Thousand Dollars and my real and personal Estate may with ease be liquidated and made to produce Five Millions of Dollars\u2014say rather a Million Dollars annually for Five consecutive Years\u2014but in consequence of some important and unexpected delinquencies on the part of persons whose Engagements have become due to me and must be paid from Securities given, my own engagements become due more rapidly than my means (without having recourse to improper operations) can be made to answer. If you will now be induced to aid me with your name responsibility and talents in the liquidation of my Concerns and payment of my engagements, in such wise, that no undue sacrifice of property shall result and my name be borne thro\u2019 with the Credit and propriety it deserves The one third part of the net residue of my whole Estate both real and personal, after payment of my Engagements, shall become yours; provided you will consent that the Mass shall remain undivided for Ten years & constitute the Capital of a Banking House to be established either in this City, or at Philadelphia in our joint Names and under your sole guidance and the profits divided between us in equal portions.\nI have reason to believe that with the aid of your name and our joint responsibility accompanied with the names of three other persons as trustees for deposited property, it will, by a reputable Mode of financing, I shall communicate, be practicable for me to obtain the use of a Million of Dollars at Legal Interest for the average term of five years, and with this Sum I should calculate on being able to pay off all my engagements with due Credit and Advantage, as considerable Amounts are due at distant periods and may be purchased in at a considerable discount.\nIf these Outlines so far meet your approbation as to induce you to wish my entering into a particular detail, it shall be done at such time as will best suit your liesure and convenience.\nI am with great Esteem, Dear Sir, \u2003 Your very Affectionate And Obedient Servant\nJames Greenleaf.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0178", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, [28 July 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\n[New York, July 28, 1796]\nDr. Sir\nI have not lost sight of the negotiation with the Bank though it labours & I have thought it best to let it lie bye till the President returns. Mc.Cormick is violent against it & plays on little jealousies, & what is still more efficacious private interests; representing the consequent inability of the Bank to accommodate the Merchants, many of whom from the unfortunate issue of some late speculations are likely to want much aid.\nYrs. truly\nA HamiltonJuly 28. 1796\nOl Wolcott Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0179", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Greenleaf, 30 July 1796\nFrom: Greenleaf, James\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nAlexander Hamilton Esqr.\n[New York] 30 July. 96\nDear Sir\nI must leave the City for Philada on Monday, to return in about a week\u2014if before my departure you can with convenience give an answer on the proposition made to you, it will oblige me. If the general principle marked by me should meet your approbation, I shall have no objection to making very important alterations to square with your wishes relative to the pursuit of other objects.\nbelieve me with great Esteem \u2003 Dr Sir \u2003 Yr very obedt Servant\nJames Greenleaf.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0180", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James Greenleaf, 30 July 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Greenleaf, James\nNew York July 30 1796\nDr. Sir\nI have carefully reflected upon the subject of your letter of the 27th. instant.\nThough the data which it presents authorise an expectation of large pecuniary advantage and though I discover nothing in the affair which an Individual differently circumstanced might not with propriety enter into\u2014yet in my peculiar situation, viewed in all its public as well as personal relations, I think myself bound to decline the overture.\nWith great regard I am Dr. Sir \u2003 Yr. Obed serv\nA H\nJames Greenleaf Esqr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0181-0002", "content": "Title: Enclosure: Draft of Washington\u2019s Farewell Address, [30 July 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: \nThe period for a new election of a Citizen to administer the Executive Gov of the U States being not very distant and the time actually arrived when theyour thoughts of my fellow Citizens must be employed in designating the Citizen who is to administer the Executive Government of the United States the person who is to be cloathed with that important trust for another term, it may conduce to it appears to me proper, and especially as it may conduce to a more distinct expression of the public voice, that I should now apprize you of the resolution I have formed to desire decline being considered among of the number of those out of whom a choice is to be made.\nI beg you neverthelessat the same time to be assured that the resolution, which I announce, has not been taken without a strict regard to all the considerations connected with attached toconnected with the relation which |as|a dutiful Citizen|I bearbears to |myhis| Country; and that in withdrawing the tender of my service, which silence in my situation might imply, I am influenced by no diminution of zeal for its future interest nor by any deficiency of grateful respect for its past kindness, but by a full conviction that my retreatsuch a step is compatible with both.\nThe acceptance of and continuance hitherto in the office to which your unanimous suffrages have twice called me has been a uniform sacrifice of private inclination to the opinion of public duty coinciding withcombined with a deference for your what appeared to be your wishes and to the opinion of public duty. I |had| constantlyconstantly hoped that it would have been much earlier in my power consistently consistently with motives which I was not at liberty to disregard to return to that retirement from which they those motives had reluctantly drawn me.\nThe conflict betwe between those motives and inclination previous to the last election\nThe strength of my desire to withdraw previous to the last election had even led to the preparation of an address to declare it to you\u2014but deliberatemature reflection on the very critical and perplexed posture of our affairs with foreign nations and the unanimous advice of |men of every waypersons| intitled to my confidence obligedimpelled me to abandon the idea.\nI rejoice that that the state of your national Concerns external as well as internal no longer appa renders the pursuit of my inclination incompatible with the sentiment of duty or propriety, and that thewhatever partiality which any portion of You my fellow citizens may still cherishretain for my services, will not they, will under the existing circumstances of theour Country, will not disapprove themy resolution I have formedto retire.\nThe impressions under which I first accepted the arduous trust |of chief Magistrate of the U States| were explained on the proper occasion. In the discharge of this trust I can only say that I have with pure intentions contributed towa towards the organisation and administration of the Government the best exertions of which a very fallible judgment was capable. I am not uncon Not unconscious |atin| the outset of the inferiority of my qualifications |for the station|, experience in my own eyes and perhaps still more in those of others has not diminished the in me the diffidence of myself\u2014and every day the increasing weight of years admonishes me more and more that the shade of retirement is as necessary to me as it will be welcome |to me.| If any circumst Satisfied that if any circumstances have given |a| peculiar value to my services they were temporary, I have the satisfactionconsolation to believe that patriotism while inclination and prudence urge me to recede from the political scene patriotism does not forbid it \u2014|May I also have that of perceivingknowing in my retreatretirement that my invol the involuntary errors which I have probably committed have been the causes of no serious or lasting mischief to my Country and thus be spared the anguish of regrets which would disturb the repose of my retreat and embitter the remmant of my life! I may then expect to realize without alloy the purest enjoyment of partaking, in the midst of my fellow citizens of the benign influence of good laws under a free Government; the ultimate object of all my wishes and |to which I look as| the happy reward I hope of our mutual cares labours and dangers.\nIn looking forward to the moment which is to terminate the carreer of my public life, my sensations do not permit me to suppress suspend the deep acknowlegements required by that debt of gratitude which I owe to my beloved country for the many honors it has conferred upon me still more for the distinguished and steadfastpersevering confidence it has reposed in me and for the opportunities it has thus afforded meI have thence enjoyed of manifesting my inviolable attachment by services at least faithful and persevering\u2014however the inadequateness of my faculties may have ill seconded my have rendered these efforts unequal to my zeal. If benefits have resulted to you my fellow Citizens from these services, let it always be remembered to your praise and as an instructive example in our annals that the constancy of your support amidst appearances sometimesfrequently sometimes dubious discouraging vicissitudes of fortune often discouraging and not infrequently want of success in situations in which not infrequently want of success has seconded the suggesti criticisms of malevolence was the essential prop and guarantee of of the efforts and the guarantee of the measures by which they were atchieved. I will not be restrained by personal considerations of personal delicacy from paying you the tribute of declaring Profoundly penetrated with this idea, I shall carry it with me to my retirement and to my grave as a lively incitement to unceasing vows (the only returns I can henceforth make) that Heaven may continue to You the choicest tokens of the beneficence merited by national piety and morality\u2014that your union and brotherly affection may be perpetual\u2014that the free constitution, which is the work of your own hands may be sacredly maintained\u2014that its administration in every department may be stamped with wisdom and virtue\u2014that in fine the happiness of the People of these States under the. auspices of liberty may be made complete by so careful a preservation & so prudent a use of this blessing as will acquire them the glorious satisfaction of recommending it to the affection the praise\u2014and the adoption of every nation which is yet a stranger to it.\nHere perhaps I ought to stop. But a solicitude for your welfare, which cannot expireend but with my life, urges me to offer and the fear that there may exist projects unfriendly to it are in train against which it is very importantmay be necessary you should be carefully guarded, urge me to in taking leave of you to offer to your solemn consideration and frequent review some sentiments the result of mature reflection confirmed by observation & experience which appear to me all import essential to the permanency of your felicity as a people. These will be offered with the more freedom as you can only see in them the advice disinterested advice of a parting friend who can have no personal motive to tincture or byass his counsel.\nInterwoven as is the love of Liberty inwith every fibre of your hearts no recommendation can beis necessary to fortify your attachment to it. AfterNext to this and as very materially connected with it that unity of Government of that Republic which constitutes you one people claims your most cordial affection and anxiousvigilant care and vigilant& guardianship\u2014as one of thea main pillars of so your real independence of your peace safety libertyfreedom and happiness and as the one against which the efforts of your internal and external enemies will be mostmost constantly & actively butthough covertly and insidiously levelled.\nThis being the point in your political fortress against which the batteries of internal and external enemies will be most constantly and actively however covertly and insidiously levelled, it is of the utmost importance that you should appreciate in its full force the immense value of your political Union to your national and individual happiness\u2014that you should cherish towards it an affectionate and immoveable attachment and that you should watch for its presservation with jealous and eagle eyed solicitude.\nFor this you have every motive of sympathy and interest. Children for the most part of a common country, that country ought claims and ought to concentrate your affections. The name of American must always exalt your character & gratify and exalt the just pride of patriotism more than any denomination which can be derived from local discrimination. Religion moralityYou have with slight shades of difference the same religion manners laws habits & political institutions & principles. You have in a common cause fought and triumphed to gether. The independence and liberty you enjoy are the work of your united joint councils efforts\u2014dangers sufferings & successes. By your Union you atchieved them, by your union you will most effectually maintain them. ThisThe name of American is more flattering more exalting and ought to be more dear to you than any which you derive from the discriminations of State boundaries.\nBut considerations addressed to your sensibility, however persuasive to virtuous minds\nThe considerations which address themselves to your sensibility are greatly strengthenedeven outweighed by those which apply to your interest. Here every portion of our Country will find the most urgent and commanding motives for cherishing guarding and preserving the Union of the Whole.\nThe North in an free & unfettered intercourse with the South under the equal laws of one Government will in the production of the latter many of them peculiar find vast additional resources of maritime and commercial enterprise and precious materials of their manufacturing industry. The South in the same intercourse will share in the benefits of the Agency of the North will find its agriculture promoted and its commerce extended by the employment of thoseturning into its own channels those means of Navigation which the North more abundantly affords and while it contributes to extend the national navigation which will participate in the protection of a maritime strength to which itself is unequally adapted. The East in a like intercourse with the West finds and in the progressive improvement of internal navigation will more & more find, a valuable vent for the commodities which it brings from abroad or manufactures at home. The West derives through this Channel an essential supply of its wants\u2014and what is far more important to it, it must owe the secure and permanent enjoyment of the essent indispensable outlets for its own productions to the weight influence & and future marinemaritime resources & indissol of the Atlantic States directed by an indissoluble community of interest. The tenure by which it could hold this advantage either from its own separate power strength or by an apostate and unnatural connection with any foreign Nation must be intrinsically & necessarily precarious at every moment liable to be disturbed by the fluctuating combinations of those primary European interests which every portion of Europe must constantly be governed by regulate the conduct of every portion of Europe\u2014And where every part finds a particular interest in the Union All the parts of our Country will find in their Union greater independence from the superior abundance & variety of production incident to different soils the diversity of soil & climate, all the parts of it must find in the aggregate assemblage & reaction of their mutual population production greater strength, proportional security from external danger, less frequency of foreign wars less frequent interruption of their peace with foreign nations and what is far more valuable an exemption those from those broils & wars between the parts if disunited which their own rivalships of inflamed fomented by foreign intrigue, or the opposite alliances with which mu with foreign nations engendered by their mutual jealousies would inevitably produce\u2014a corespondentconsequent exemption from the necessity of those military establishments upon a large scale which bear in every country so menacing an aspect toward Liberty.\nThese considerations speak a conclusive language to every considerate an virtuous and considerate mind. The diversities They place the continuance of our Union among the first objects of patriotic desire. Is there a doubt whether a common government can long embrace so extensive a sphere? Let Time & Experience decide the question. Speculation in such a case ought not to be listened to\u2014And tis rational to hope that the auxiliary agency of the governments of the subdivisions, if with a proper organisation of the whole will secure a favourable issue to the Experiment. Tis allowable to believe that the spirit of party the intrigues of foreign nations, the corruption & the ambition of Individuals are likely to prove more formidable adversaries to the unity of our Empire than any inherent difficulties in the scheme. Tis against these that the guardsmounds of national opinion national sympathy national prudence & virtue are to be erected. With such obvious motives to Union there will be always cause from the fact itself to distrust the patriotism of those who in any quarter may endeavour to weaken its bands. And by all the love I bear you My fellow Citizens I exhortconjure you as faroften as it appears to frown upon the attempt.\nBesides the more serious causes which have been hinted at, as endangering our Union there is one another less dangerous but against which it is necessary to be on our guard. I mean the petulancecollisions & disgusts of party differences of Opinion. It is not uncommon to hear the irritations which these excite vent themselves in declarations that the different parts of the Union are ill assorted and cannot remain together\u2014in menaces from the inhabitants of one part to those of another that it will be dissolved by this or that measure. Intimations of the kind ar[e] as indiscreet as they are intemperate. Though frequently made with levity and without being in earnest they have a tendency to produce the consequence which they indicate. They teach the minds of men to consider the Union as precarious as an object to which they are not to attach their hopes and desires fortunes and thus weaken the sentiment in its favour. By rousing the resentment and piquing the alarming the pride of those to whom they are addressed they set ingenuity to work to depreciate the value of the object and to discover motives of Indifference to it. This is not wise. Prudence demands that all our words we should habituate ourselves in all our words and actions to reverence the Union as a sacred and inviolable palladium of our happiness\u2014as a thing which in even and should discountenance the supposed whatever can lead to a suspicion that it can in any event be abandonned.\nThere is eau much cause to regret that the organisation of parties has for someTis matter of serious concern that parties in this Country for some time past have been too much characteristed by local and geographical discriminations\u2014Northern and Southern States Atlantic and Western Country. These discriminations of party which are the mere artifice of the spirit of party (always over dexterous to avail itself of every source of sympathy of every handle by which the passions can be taken hold of and which has been careful to turn to account the circumstance of territorial vicinitysympathy of neighborhood) have furnished in the difference of p an evidence in the difference of party opinions an argument against the Union as evidence of a real difference of local interests and views and serve to hazard it by organising large districts of country under the direction the leaders of of different factions whose passions & prejudices rather than the true interests of the Country, will be too apt to regulate the use of their influence. If it be possible to correct this poison in the affairs of our Country it is worthy the best endeavours of moderate & virtuous men to effect it.\nOne of the expedients which the partisans of Faction employ towards fostering strengthening their influence by local discriminationswithin local spheres is to misrepresent the opinions and views of rival districts\u2014The People at large cannot be too much on their guard against the jealousies which grow out of these misrepresentations. The They tend to render aliens to each other those who ought to be tied together by fraternal affection. The Western Country have lately had a useful lesson on this subject. They have seen in the negotiation by the Executive & in the unanimous ratification of the Treaty with Spain by the Senate the conclusive proof & in the universal satisfaction at that event in all parts of the Country a decisive proof how in unfounded have been the suspicions [that] have been instilled inpropagated among them of a policy hostile in the Atlantic States & in the different statesdepartments of the General Government hostile to their interests in relation to the Mississipian. They have seen too too treaties formed which secure to them every thing that they could desire to confirm their prosperity. Will they not henceforth rely for the preservation of these advantages on that union by which they were procured? Will they not reject those counsellors who would render them alien to their brethren & connect them with Aliens?\nTo the duration and efficacy of your Union a Government extending over the whole is indispensable. Without this No alliances however strict between the parts could have the necessary solidity or afford the necessarily be an adequate substitute. These could not fail to be liable to the infractions and interruptions which all alliances in all times have suffered. Sensible of this important truth and with a view to a more intimate Union you have lately established a Constitution of General Government, better calculated than the former one for an intimate union and more adequate to the direction of your common concerns. This Government the offspring of your own choice uninfluenced and unawed, completely free in its principles, in the distribution of its powers uniting energy with safety and containing in itself a provision for its own amendment is well entitled to your confidence and support\u2014Complian Respect for its authority, compliance with its laws, acquiescence in its measures, are duties dictated by the fundamental maxims of true Liberty. The basis of our political systems is the right of the people to make and to alter their constitutions of Government. But the existing constitution for the time, and until changed by an explicit and authentic act of the whole people, is sacredly binding upon all. The very idea of the right and power of the people to establish Government presupposes the duty of every individual to obey it the established Government.\nAll irregular obstructions therefore to the execution of the laws\u2014all combinations and associations under whatever plausible character with the real design to direct counteract countroul influence or awe the regular deliberation or action of the constituted authorities are contrary to the true principles of a representative Government this fundamental principle & of the most dangerousfatal tendency. They serve to organise Faction to give it an artificial force; and to put in the stead of the delegated will of the whole nation the will of a party. A often a small but artful & enterprising minority of the community\u2014and according to the alternate victoriestriumphs of party different factionsparties to make the public administration reflecting the ill concerted schemes and projects of faction rather than the wholesome plans of common councils and deliberations. However combinations or assoc[i]ations of this description may occasionally promote popular ends and purposes they are likely to produce in the course of time and things the most effectual engines by which artful ambitious and unprincipled in men will be enabled to subvert the power of the people and usurp the reins of Government.\nTowards the preservation of your government and the permanency of your present happy state, it is not only requisite that you steadily discountenance irregular oppositions to its authority but that you should be upon your guard against the spirit of innovation upon its principles however plausiblespecious the pretexts. One method of assault may be to effect alterations in the forms of the constitution tending to impair the energy of the system and so to undermine what cannot be directly overthrown. In all the changes to which you may be invited remember that time and habit are as necessary to fix the true character of governments as of any other human institutions, that experience is the surest standard by which the real tendency of existing constitutions of government can be tried\u2014that changesfacility in upon the credit of mere hypothesis and opinions exposes you to perpetual change from the exssuccessessive and endless variety of hypothesis and opinion\u2014and remember always also that for the efficacious management of your common interests in a country so extensive as ours a Government of as much force and strength as is consistent with the perfect security of liberty is indispensable. Liberty itself will find in such a Government, its surest with powers properly distributed and arranged, its surest guardian\u2014and protector. In my opinion the real danger in our system is that the General Government organised as at present will prove too weak rather than too powerful.\nI have already observed the danger to be apprehended from founding characterising our parties by on Geographical discriminations. Let me now enlarge the view of this point and caution you in the most solemn manner against the baneful effects of party spirit in general. This spirit unfortunately is inseperable from human nature and has its root in the strongest passions of the human heart.\u2014It exists under different shapes in all governments more or l but in different degrees stifled controuled or repressed in those of the popular form it is always seen in its mostutmost vigour & rankness and it is their worst enemy. In republics of narrow dimensionsextent, the usual combination of a it is easy for those who at any time possess the powerrule of the State it is not difficulty for those who at any time possess the reins of administration, or even for partial combinations of men, who from birth riches and other sources of distinction have an habitual influence extraordinary influence by havingpossessing or acquiring the direction of the military force or by sudden efforts of partisans & followers to overturn the established order of things and effect a usurpation. But in republics of large extent the one or the other is scarcely possible. The powers and opportunities of resistance of a numerous and wide extended nation compared with the ordinary defy the successful efforts of the ordinary military force or of any collectionsassemblages which wealth and patronage may call to their aid\u2014especially if there be no city of overbearing for[c]e resources and influence. In such Republics it is perhaps safe to sayassert that the conflict of popular faction offer the only avenues to usurpation & tyrann tyranny & usurpation. Perhaps it may be safely asserted that in those which occupy a large extent of territory it is the only channel through which tyranny & usurpation can approach. The dep desposition of one faction despotic domination of one faction over another stimulated by that spirit of Revenge which is apt to be gradually and invariably engendered and which in different ages and countries have produced the greatest enormities is itself a frightful despotism. But this leads at length to a more formal and permanent despotism. The disorders and miseries which resolution result predispose the minds of men to seek repose & security in the absolute power of a single man. And thesome leader of a prevailing faction more able or more fortunate than his competitors turns this disposition to the purpose of an ambitious and criminal self aggrandisement.\nWithout looking forward to such an extremity (which however ought not to be out of sight) the ordinary and continual fact mischief of the spirit of party demand the endeavours of moderate make it the interest and the duty of a wise people to discountenance and repress it.\nIt serves always to distract the Councils & enfeeble the administration of the Government. It agitates the community with false alarms ill founded jealousies and false alarms and embittering one part of the community against another, & producing occasionaly riot & insurrection. It opens inlets for foreign corruption and influence\u2014which find an easy access through the channels of party passions\u2014and cause the true policy & interestinterests of our own country to be sacrificed to made subservient to the policy and interest of one and another foreign PowerNation; sometimes enslaving the our own Government to the will of a foreign Government.\nThere It is an opinion which has some vogue and is intirely with out true that parties in free countries are salutary checks upon the administration of the Government & serve to keep aliveinvigorate the spirit of Liberty. This within certain limits is true and in governments of cast a monarchical charactercast or byassparticular kind patriotism may look with some favour on the spirit of party. But in those of the popular kind in those purely elective it is a spirit not to be fostered &or encouraged. From the natural tendency of such governments, it is certain there will always be enough of it for every salutary purpose and there being constant danger of excess the effort ought to be by force of public opinion to mitigate & correct it. Tis a fire not towhich cannot be quenched but demandsdemanding a uniform vigilance to prevent its bursting into a flame\u2014lest it should not only warm but consume.\nIt is important likewise that the habits of thinking of the people should tend tend to produce caution in their public agents in the several departments of Government, to retain each within its proper shere sphere and not to permit one to encr[o]ach one upon the another\u2014The spirit of approach encroachment in this particular and that every attempt of the kind from whatever quarter are should meet with the discountenancereprobation of the community, so and that in every case in which a precedent of encourage encroachment shouldshall have been given, a careful election ofcorrective be sought in (revocation be effected by) a careful attention to the choice next choiceelection of public Agents. The spirit of encroachment ab tends to absorb & consolidate the powers of the several branches and departments into one, and thus to establish under whatever forms a despotism. A just knowlege of the human heart, of that love of power which predominates in it, is alone sufficient to establish this truth. Experiments ancient and modern\u2014some in our own country and under our own eyes serve to confirm it. If in the public opinion the distribution of the constitutional powers be in any instance and wrong or inexpedient\u2014let it be corrected by the authority of the people in a legitimate constitutional waycourse\u2014Let there be no change by usurpation, for though this may be the instrument of good in one instance, it is the ordinary and natural ord instrument of the destructiondeath of free Government\u2014and the influence of the presede precedent is always infinitely worse more pernicious than any thing which it may atchieve can be beneficial.\nTo all those dispositions which promote the political happinessprosperity, Religion and Morality are essential props. In vain does hethat man claim the praise of patriotism who labours to subvert or undermine these great pillars of human happiness these sure foundations firmest foundations of all the duties of men and citizens. The mere politician equally with the pious man ought to respect and cherish them. A volume could not trace all their connections with private and public happiness. Let it simply be asked where is the security for reputation property for reputation for life if the sense of moral and religious obligation deserts the oaths which are administered in thethe instruments of Investigation Courts of Justice? Nor ought we to flatter ourselves that morality can be separated from religion. Concede as much as may be asked to the effect of refined education in minds ofa peculiar structure\u2014can we believe\u2014can we in prudence suppose that national morality can be maintained in exclusion of religious principles? Does it not require the aid of a generally received and divinely authoritative Religion?\nTis essentially true that virtue or morality is a main & necessaryan indispensable propspring of popular or republican Governments. The rule indeed extends with more or less force to all free Governments. Who that is a prudent & sincere friend to them can look with indifference on the ravages which are making in the foundation of the Fabric? Religion? The uncommon means which of late have been directed to this fatal end seem to make it in a particular of manner the duty of the Retiring Chief of a his nation to warn his country against tasting of the poisonous draught.\nCultivate also industry and frugality. They are auxiliaries of good morals and sour great sources of private and national prosperity. Is there not room for regret that our propensity to expence exceeds the maturity of our Country for expense? Is there not more luxury among us, in various classes, than the suits the actual period of our national progress? Whatever may be the apology for said of luxury in a Country mature in wealth and in all the arts which are its ministers and the means of national opulence\u2014can it promote the advantage of a young agricultural Country little advanced in manufactures and not much advanced in wealth?\nCherish public Credit as a mean of strength and security. But \u0153conomise the resource by the using it as little as possible As one method of preserving it, use it as little as possible. Avoid occasions of expence by cultivating peace\u2014remembering always that the preparation against danger for danger defence by timely and provident disbursements is often a mean of avoiding greater disbursements to repel it. Avoid the accumulation of expence debt by avoiding occasions andof expence and by vigorous exertions in time of peace to discharge the debts which unavoidable wars may have occasionned\u2014not transferring to posterity the burthen which we ought to bear ourselves. Recollect that towards the dischar payment of debts there must be Revenue, that to have revenue there must be taxes, and that a chearful acquiesence which in those whic that it is impossible to devise taxes which are not more or less inconvenient and unpleasant\u2014that they are always a choice of difficulties\u2014that from the intrinsic embarrassment which always never fails to attend a selection of objects ought to be a motive for a candid construction of the conduct of the Government in making it\u2014and that a spirit of acquiescence in those measures for obtaining revenue which the public exigencies dictate is in an especial manner the duty and interest of the citizens of every State.\nCherish good faith and Justice towards, and peace and harmony with all nations. Religion and morality demandenjoins this conduct And It cannot be, but that true policy equally demands dictatesdemands it. It will be worthy of a free enlightened and at not no distant period a great nation to give to mankind the magnanimous and too novel example to mankind of a people and go invariably governed by those exalted viewsan exalted justice & benevolence.. Who can say doubt that in thea long course of time and events the fruits of such a conduct would richly repay any temporary advantages which might be lost by a steady adherence to the plan? Can it be that Providence has not connected the permanent felicity happiness of a nation with its virtue? The experiment is worthy ofrecommended by every sentiment thatwhich ennobles human nature. Alas! is it rendered impossible by its vices?\nToward the execution of such a plan nothing is more essential than that antipathies against particular nations and passionate attachments towardsfor others should be discarded avoided\u2014and that instead of them we should cultivate just and amicable feelings towards all. That nation, which indulges towards another a habitual hatred or a habitual fondness is in some degree a slave. It is a slave to its animosity or to its attach affection\u2014either of which is sufficient to lead it astray from its duty and interest. Antipathy against one nation which never fails to beget a similar sentiment in the other disposes each more readily to violate the rights offer injury and insult to the other\u2014to lay hold of slight causes of umbrage and to be haughty and intractable when accidental or trifling differences arise. Hence frequent quarrelsbroils and bitter and obstinate contests. The nation urged by resentment and rage sometimes impels the Government to War contrary to its own calculations of policy & interest. The Gover[n]ment frequ sometimes participates in this propensity & does through passion what reason would forbid\u2014at other times it makes the animosity of the nations subservient subservient to hostiles projects which originate in ambition & other sinister motives. The peace often and sometimes the liberty of Nations has been the victim of this cause.\nIn like mannerSo likewise a passionate attachment of one one nation to another produces multiplied ills. Sympathy for the favourite nations, promote promoting facilitating the illusion of a supposed common interest in cases where it does not exist and a participation in the enmities of the favourite leads to embark commun and communicating to one the enmities of the one betrays into a participation in its quarrels & wars without adequate inducements or justifications. It leads to the concession of privileges to one nation and to the denial of them to others\u2014which is apt doubly to injure the nation making the concession by an unnecessary sacrifice yielding of what ought to have been retained and by exciting jealousy ill will and retaliation in the party from whom an equal privilege is witheld. And it gives to ambitious or corrupted or deluded citizens, who devote themselves to the views of the favourite foreign nation thepower, facility in betraying or sacrificing the interests of their own country even withwithout odium & the advantage of popularitygilding with the appearance to themselves of \u2003a virtuous impulse virtue & justness of sentiment the base sacrificesyieldings of ambition of or corruption.\nAs avenues to foreign influence in innume innumerable Ways such attachments are peculiarly alarming to the enlightened independent friend of his CountryPatriot. How many opportunities do they does it afford to intrigue with domestic factions to seduce even to practice with success the arts of success\u2014to misdirect theseduction\u2014to mislead public opinion\u2014to influence or awe the public Councils! Such an attachment of a small or weak towards a great & powerful Nation destines the former to revolve round the latter as its satellite.\nAgainst the Mischiefs of Foreign Influence all are the Jealousy of a free people ought to be constantlycontinually directed exerted. All History & Experience in different ages and nations has proved that foreign influence is one of the most formidablebaneful foes of republican Governt\u2014but theat jealousy of it to be useful must be impartial else it becomes an instrument instead of a defence\u2014of thatthe very influence to be avoided instead of a defenceguard against it.\nAn Excessive partiality for one foreign nation & excessive dislike of another, leads to see danger only on one side and serves to viel & second the arts of influence on the other. This is a mo Real Patriots who resist the intrigues of the favorite become suspected & odious. Its tools & dupes usurp the applause & confidence of the people to betray their interests.\nThe great rule of conduct for us in regard to foreign Nations ought to be to have as little political connection with them as possible\u2014so far as we have already formed engagements let them be fulfilled\u2014with circumspection indeed but with perfect good faith. But Here let us stop.\nEurope has a set of primary interests foreign to us which have none or a very remote relation to us. Hence she must be involved in frequent contests the causes of which will be essentially foreign to us. Hence therefore it must necessarily be unwise in us on our part to implicate ourselves by an artificial connectione in the ordinary vicissitudes of European politics\u2014in the combination, & collisions of her friendships or enmities.\nOur detached and distant situation invites us to a different course & enables us to pursue it. If we remain a united people under an efficient Government the period is not distant when we may defy material injury from external annoyance\u2014when we may take such an attitude as will cause the neutrality we shall at any time resolve to observe to be duly violated with caution\u2014when menacing more than car when it will be the interest of belligerent nations under the impossibility of making acquisitions upon us to be very careful how either forced us to throw our weight into the opposite scale\u2014when we may choose peace or war as our interest guided by justice shall dictate.\nWhy should we forego the advantages of so ha felicitous a situation? Why should we quit our own ground to stand upon EuropeanForeign ground? Why by interweaving our destiny with any part of Europe should we intangle our prospect prosperity and peace in the nets of European Ambition rivalship interest or Caprice?\nPermanent alliance, intimate connection with any part of the foreign ea world is to be avoided. I mean so far (I mean) as we are now at liberty to do it: for let me never be understood as infedily to as patronising infidelity to preexisting engagements. These must be observed in their true and genuine sense. But tis not necessary nor will it be prudent to extend them. Tis our true policy as a general principle to avoid permanent or a close alliance\u2014Taking care always to keep ourselves by suitable establishments in a respectably defensive posture we may safely trust to occasional alliances infor extraordinary emergencies. But I mean to submit to you my fellow citizens a general principle of policy which I think ought to govern you as far as you are at present free. In extraordinary exigencies temporary alliances will suffice for the occasion.\nHarmony liberal friendly intercourse and commerce with all nations are recommended by justice humanity & interest. But even our commercial policy should hold an equal hand\u2014neither seeking nor granting particular exclusive favours or preferences\u2014consulting the natural course of things\u2014diffusing and diversifying by gentle means the streams of Commerce but forcing nothing\u2014establishing by treaty with powers so disposed in order to give to Trade a stable course, to trade define the rights of our Merchants and enable the Government to support them\u2014temporaryconventional rules of intercourse the best that present circumstances and mutual opinion of interest will permit but temporary\u2014and liable to be abandonned or varied as time experience & future circumstances may dictate\u2014remembering alway that tis folly to expect a disinterested in one nation to expect disinterested favour in another\u2014that to accept any thing under that character it is to part with a portion of ourits independence\u2014and that weit may frequently find ourselvesitself in the condition of having given an equivalents for nominal favours and of being reproached with ingratitude in the bargain. There can be no greater error in national policy than to desire expect or calculate upon real favours. Tis an illusion that experience must cure, that a just pride ought to discard.\nIn offering to you My Countrymen! fellow Citizens these counsels of an old and affectionate friend\u2014counsels suggested by labourious reflection and matured by a various experience\u2014I dare not hope that they will make the strong and lasting impressions I wish\u2014that they will controul the current of the passions or prevent our nation from running the course of which has hitherto marked the destiny of all nations. But if I may flatter myself that they may even produce some partial benefits, some occasional good\u2014if the shallthat they sometimes recur to moderate the violence of party spirit\u2014to warn against the evils of foreign intrigue\u2014to guard against the impositions of pretended patriotism\u2014the having offered them must always afford me a precious consolation.\nHow far in the execution of my present Office I have been guided by the principles which have been recommendedinculcated the public records & the external evidences of my conduct must witness. to an My conscious assures me that I have at least believed myself to be guided by them.\nIn reference to the present War of Europe my Proclamation of the 22d of April 1793 is the key to my sentimentsplan. Sanctioned by your approving voice and that of your representatives in Congress has continually governed me the spirit of that measure has continually governed me uninfluenced and unawed by the attempts of any of the warring powers their agents or partizans to deter or divert from it.\nAfter deliberate consideration and the best lights I could obtain (and from men who did not agree in their views of the original progress & nature of that war) I was satisfied that our Country, had under all the circumstances of the case, had a right and was bound in propriety and interest to take a neutral position\u2014And having taken it, I determined as far as should depend on me to maintain it steadily and firmly.\nThough in reviewing the eventsincidents of my administration I am unconscious of intentional error\u2014I am yet too sensible of my own deficiencies not to think it probable that I have committed many errors. I deprecate the evils to which they may tend\u2014and fervently implore the Almighty to avert or mitigate them. I shall carry with me nevertheless the hope that my motives will continue to be viewed by my Country with indulgence & that after forty five years of my life devoted with an upright zeal to the public service the faults of inadequate abilities will be consigned to oblivion as myself must soon be to the mansions of rest.\nNeither Ambition nor interest has been the impelling cause of my actions. I never designedly misused any power confided to me. The fortune with which I came into office is not bettered otherwise than by that value improvement in the value of property which the natural progress and peculiar prosperity of our country have produced. I retire with an a pure heartwithout cause for a blush\u2014 with no sentiment alien to your true interests with no alien sentiment to the ardor of those vows for the happiness of his Country which is so natural to a Citizen who sees in it with undefiled hand and with ardent vows for the happiness of a Country, which is the native soil of myselfhimself and progenitors for four generations.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0182", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 30 July 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\n[New York] July 30th 1796\nDr Sir\nI had written you a short line previous to the Receipt of your letter of the 26th to which indeed I can add nothing material.\nIt will, as things stand, be imprudent to push the point of a further loan till the President arrives\u2014for though a majority of the Directors are well disposed to the thing, they are afraid of McCormick\u2019s clamours and want the sanction of the President to controul & counterballance him. All I am told that can now be relied upon is a postponement of the payment of the 200 000 Dollars heretofore lent\u2014to which McCormick assents.\nYrs. truly\nA Hamilton\nOliver Wolcott Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0183", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 1 August 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia, August 1, 1796. On August 3, 1796, Hamilton wrote to Wolcott: \u201cI have received your letter of the 1st.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0184", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Catharine Bedlow, 2 August 1796\nFrom: Bedlow, Catharine\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nNew York, August 2, 1796. \u201cInclosed is the Letter of Helena Soyer which I Should have been Sent you before, but being daily in Expectation of Seeing you, it was defered to be given you till then. I could wish a Leasure Houre will permit you to call & See us as Mr Bedlow Continues Ill unable to transact any Business.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0186", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, [5 August 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\n[New York, August 5, 1796]\nDr. Sir\nThe Bank of New York is willing to make the loan of 324 000 Dollars to you (I mean the exact sum of about this amount, if you desire it, which one of the laws you mentioned authorises to borrow) on these terms to advance all but two hundred thousand Dollars when you please\u2014to advance the two hundred thousand Dollars, by way of reloan, when that sum, payable in October, becomes due. The term of credit to be in each case six months from the time of the advance. The interest six per Cent, with a deposit of Stock (6 \u214c Cent) at par so placed as to permit the sale of it at the market price, if there be a failure of reimbursement at the stipulated periods. The Treasury, upon honor, to draw immediately upon the Bank as the money is wanted for expenditure not to transfer it before hand. On this point sincerity and delicacy will be expected.\nIt was mentioned too as desirable, though not made a condition, that it should be understood that in case a real pressing emergency in the course of the Winter should exist the Bank on giving previous notice of the necessity to the Treasury might be at liberty to sell the stock at the then market price. The Directors to be upon honor not to use this permission but in case of real necessity. Their honor, I know, may be intirely relied upon & it may be well to gratify.\nThe deposit of Stock was suggested by myself upon your first letter. It is an ingredient in the negotiation which the Bank values.\nYrs. truly\nA HamiltonAug 5. 1796\nThe Bank wishes a speedy decision.\nOliver Wolcott Junr. Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0189", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Richard Hatfield, 9 August 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Hatfield, Richard\nNew York, August 9, 1796. \u201cI have in my hands two bonds one from Joseph Lyon of White Plains, in WestChester for \u00a3 82.10 dated the 9th of Feby 1770\u2014the other from Joseph Lyon and Daniel Lyon dated the 2nd. of may in the year 1768 both to General Schuyler.\u2026 As well from finding your name mentioned in the matter as from the belief that you are more likely than any other to know the situation of the Parties and the state [of] facts I am induced to trouble you with a request that you will be so good as to make the necessary inquiry and assist me with all the light you can collect to enable me to Judge of the probability of recovering the money.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0190", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 10 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nMount Vernon 10th Augt. 1796.\nMy dear Sir,\nThe principal design of this letter, is to inform you, that your favor of the 30th. Ulto, with its enclosure, got safe to my hands by the last Post, and that the latter shall have the most attentive consideration I am able to give it.\nA cursory reading it has had, and the Sentiments therein contained are extremely just, & such as ought to be inculcated. The doubt that occurs at first view, is the length of it for a News Paper publication; and how far the occasion would countenance its appearing in any other form, without dilating more on the present state of matters, is questionable. All the columns of a large Gazette would scarcely, I conceive, contain the present draught. But having made no accurate calculation of this matter, I may be much mistaken.\nIf any matters should occur to you as fit subjects of communication at the opening of the next Session of Congress I would thank you for noting and furnishing me with them. It is my wish, and my custom to provide all the materials for the Speech in time that it may be formed at leizure.\nWith sincere esteem and affectionate regard \u2003 I am always Yours\nGo: Washington\nAlexr: Hamilton Esqr.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0192", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Joseph Strong, 11 August 1796\nFrom: Strong, Joseph\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nCooperstown [New York] August 11, 1796. \u201cI having been lately imployed by several Defendants in Actions of Trespass recommended by Joshua Mercereau in Tioga County for fishing in the Susquehannah River where he owned the Soil on both sides thereof and on argument thereof befor Balthazar De Haert Esqr. (your late partner in business while I were under your Tuition) as an umpire, being disappointed in his decision for the plaintiff in Support of the Actions, in private conversation with him afterwards we offered to submit the same to your Opinion\u2014in consequence whereof as well as to satisfy myself & employers I transmit you the foregoing Case comprising the whole question.\u2026 Permit me Sir to request your Opinion on the Case.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0193", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jonathan Williams, 18 August 1796\nFrom: Williams, Jonathan\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nMount Pleasant [near Philadelphia], August 18, 1796. \u201cI wrote you, on the day of my last Interview relative to my affair with Mr Macomb, June 8. 1796.\u2026 By your silence it is evident that, as counsel for Mr Macomb you did not think yourself justifiable to enter farther into the Matter. My only reason for troubling you now, is to request your remembrance of the measures I have taken to procure an amicable arrangement; and at the future day you will do me the justice to allow, that I am not bound by politeness, or any principle of regard to the parties, to vary in the smallest degree any kind of rigour that the Laws will Support.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0195", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Rufus King, 25 August 1796\nFrom: King, Rufus\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nLondon Aug. 25. 1796\nDear sir,\nIt would have been agreeable to this Government if we would have agreed to the appointment of Doct. Swabey as the fifth commissioner; he is really a very candid and honorable man, but for the same reason that we could not satisfy the Commissioners on the part of G.B. with the appointment of our Country man Colo Trumbull, an equally candid and honorable character, they have been unable to convince us that under all circumstances it would be adviseable that we should accept Doctr. Swabey.\nThe utmost propriety of conduct has been shewn on both sides, and out of several Names proposed by each, the British Commissioners selected Colo. Trumbull and our Commissioners Doctr. Swabey, as the names to be put in the urn\u2014the lot has decided in our favor, and Colo Trumbull who is on the spot is the fifth Commissioner. The Board being now complete will proceed to Business without unnecessary Delay.\nKnowing the immense importance of this Commission to our Commerce, and navigation, I take the earliest Opportunity to give you this information. The surrender of the Posts which has taken place, and the very explicit assurances that I have received from the highest authority in this nation, of a Resolution to carry into Effect the Treaty with the most scrupulous Fidelity, make me anxious that nothing should take place on our side that should furnish even a pretence, much less a Justification, for arresting the further and complete execution of the Treaty\u2014the very extraordinary situation of Europe at this moment should inspire us with great caution; and those whose Property depend on the Treaties being permitted to go into full Effect, should feel, and be influenced by, this Reflection.\nFarewell! \u2003 Very sincerely yr\u2019s\nRufus King\nCol. Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0196", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Stephen Van Rensselaer, 25 August 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Van Rensselaer, Stephen\n[New York, August 25, 1796. \u201cI embrace with pleasure the opportunity of making you acquainted with Mr. Adet Minister P: of the French Republic, for whom it is unnecessary for me to ask your particular attentions as they are equally due to his public and personal character. I will only add that I shall take a particular interest in whatever you may do to render his visit to Albany agreeable to him.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0198", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from David Howell, 31 August 1796\nFrom: Howell, David\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nHalifax [Nova Scotia] Aug. 31. 1796\nSir,\nCol. Barclay & myself after 7 or 8 days canvassing have agreed upon the Hon. Egbert Benson of N.Y. as 3d Comissr.\nAs he is your friend as well as ours let me request your influence with him to accept this appointment. We never shall agree on any other person. The alternative is not very \u27e8promising\u27e9 nor likely to prove satisfactory to either Country.\nI hope your State will suspend their claim on Mr. Benson only for a few weeks this fall. The Cause Col. Barclay & myself have agreed Shall be tried in the City of N. York.\nIt is not likely that the Surveys can be compleated till late in this fall. The Agents must then have time to prepare\u2014and the Commissioners & Agents cannot meet in the Winter conveniently so that the trial will probably be in N. York next Spring. This we have agreed to for Mr. Bensons convenience\u2014so he will see how entirely he has our Confidence & may hope to give Satisfaction to both Countries.\nWe have sent a Vessel to bring him to attend merely in answering the Court & opening the business\u2014to sit only a few days & adjourn.\nAs you delight in doing public Service I assure myself of your attention to the object of this Letter. I need only add that when I parted with you I requested you to consult Mr. Benson & to write me whether he would accept or not & that from your Silence I had some reason to hope he would accept.\nWith great esteem & respt Sir your very He Sert\nDavid Howell\nHon. A. Hamilton.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0199", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 1 September 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPrivate\nPhiladelphia 1st. Septr. 1796\nMy dear Sir,\nAbout the middle of last Week I wrote to you; and that it might escape the eye of the Inquisitive (for some of my letters have lately been pried into) I took the liberty of putting it under a cover to Mr. Jay.\nSince then, revolving on the Paper that was enclosed therein; on the various matters it contained; and on the just expression of the advice or recommendation which was given in it, I have regretted that another subject (which in my estimation is of interesting concern to the well-being of this country) was not touched upon also: I mean Education generally as one of the surest means of enlightening & givg. just ways of thinkg to our Citizens, but particularly the establishment of a University; where the Youth from all parts of the United States might receive the polish of Erudition in the Arts, Sciences & Belle Letters; and where those who were disposed to run a political course, might not only be instructed in the theory & principles, but (this Seminary being at the Seat of the General Government) where the Legislature wd. be in Session half the year, and the interests & politics of the Nation of course would be discussed, they would lay the surest foundation for the practical part also.\nBut that which would render it of the highest importance, in my opinion, is, that the Juvenal period of life, when friendships are formed, & habits established that will stick by one; the Youth, or young men from different parts of the United States would be assembled together, & would by degrees discover that there was not that cause for those jealousies & prejudices which one part of the union had imbibed agains[t] another part: of course, sentiments of more liberality in the general policy of the country would result from it. What, but the mixing of people from different parts of the United States during the War rubbed off these impressions? A century in the ordinary intercourse, would not have accomplished what the Seven years association in Arms did: but that ceasing, prejudices are beginning to revive again, and never will be eradicated so effectually by any other means as the intimate intercourse of characters in early life, who, in all probability, will be at the head of the councils of this country in a more advanced stage of it.\nTo shew that this is no new idea of mine, I may appeal to my early communications to Congress; and to prove how seriously I have reflected on it since, & how well disposed I have been, & still am, to contribute my aid towards carrying the measure into effect, I enclose you the extract of a letter from me to the Governor of Virginia on the Subject, and a copy of the resolves of the Legislature of that State in consequence thereof.\nI have not the smallest doubt that this donation (when the Navigation is in complete operation, which it certainly will be in less than two years) will amount to twelve or \u00a31500 Sterlg a year, and become a rapidly increasing fund. The Proprietors of the Federal City have talked of doing something handsome towards it likewise and if Congress would appropriate so\u27e8me of\u27e9 the Western lands to the same uses, funds sufficient, and of the most permanent and increasing sort might be so established as to invite the ablest Professors in Europe, to conduct it.\nLet me pray you, therefore, to introduce a Section in the Address expressive of these sentiments, & recommendatory of the measure\u2014without any mention, however, of my proposed personal contribution to the plan.\nSuch a Section would come in very properly after the one which relates to our religious obligations, or in a preceding part, as one of the recommendatory measures to counteract the evils arising from Geographical discriminations.\nWith Affecte regard \u2003 I am always Yours\nGo: Washington\nColo. A. Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0200", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 1 September 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nTreasury DepartmentSeptember 1st. 1796\nSir\nLieutenant Colonel Fleury has credit on the Books of the Treasury as a foreign Officer for Seven thousand, five hundred & Seventy Dollars & fifty eight Cents principal, for which there exists an appropriation; this sum will therefore be paid at any time on the production of a power of Attorney and the original Certificates.\nIf however a transmission of the original Certificates would be attended with too great risque they may be lodged with our Minister in Paris and a Certificate from him that this is done, with a proper power of Attorney will be Sufficient.\nThe Interest on this debt ceased on the last day of December 1792, the sum then due was, One thousand eight hundred & Sixteen Dollars & Ninety four Cents, for the payment of which provision was made at Paris\u2014this sum may be yet received at Paris by application to our Minister Mr. Munroe or His Successor General Pinckney when he shall have arrived.\nIf payment of the Interest last mentioned, is however preferred in the United States, it will be so made, on the production of a Certificate from our Minister, mentioning that the claim for payment in Paris, has been renounced.\nIt will be best for Colo Fleury to obtain payment here as soon as possible, for although his Monies are perfectly safe, they are in their present state entirely unproductive. As soon as payment shall be obtained from the Treasury, the monies may if he chooses, be advantageously invested in the purchase of Stock.\nI am with perfect respect \u2003 Sir \u2003 Your most Obedient Servant\nOliv. Wolcott Jr.\nAlexander Hamilton Esqr.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0201", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Amanda Coe, 2 September 1796\nFrom: Coe, Amanda\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nNew York, September 2, 179\u27e86\u27e9. Encloses ten dollars and asks for Hamilton\u2019s assistance in securing her release from prison.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0202", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 4 September 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\nNew York Sepr. 4. 1796\nSir\nI have received your two late letters, the last but one transmitting me a certain draft. It will be corrected & altered with attention to your suggestions & returned by Monday\u2019s or Tuesday\u2019s post. The idea of the university is one of those which I think will be most properly reserved for your speech at the opening of the session. A general suggestion respecting education will very fitly come into the address.\nWith respectful & Affect attach: \u2003 I have the honor to remain \u2003 Sir Yr. very obedt. Servt\nA Hamilton\nThe President", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0204", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 5 September 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\nNew York Sept. 5. 1796\nSir\nI return the draft corrected agreeably to your intimations. You will observe a short paragraph added respecting Education. As to the establishment of a University, it is a point which in connection with military schools, & some other things, I meant, agreeably to your desire to suggest to you, as parts of your Speech at the opening of the session. There will several things come there much better than in a general address to The People which likewise would swell the address too much. Had I had health enough, it was my intention to have written it over, in which case I could both have improved & abriged. But this is not the case. I seem now to have regularly a period of ill health every summer.\nI think it will be adviseable simply to send the address by your Secretary to Dunlap. It will of course find its way into all the other papers. Some person on the spot ought to be charged with a careful examination of the impression by the proof sheet.\nVery respectfully & Affect I have the honor to be \u2003 Sir \u2003 Yr. very obed serv\nA Hamilton\nThe President", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0205", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 6 September 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhiladelphia 6th. Septr. 1796.\nMy Dear Sir,\nI received yesterday, your letter of the 4th. instant. If the promised paper has not been sent before this reaches you, Mr. Kitt the bearer of it, who goes to New York partly on mine, and partly on his own business, will bring it safely. I only await here, now, and shall in a few days do it impatiently, for the arrival of General Pinckney.\nIf you think the idea of a University had better be reserved for the Speech at the opening of the Session, I am content to defer the communication of it until that period. But even in that case, I would pray you (as soon as convenient) to make a draught for the occasion; predicated on the ideas with which you have been furnished\u2014looking at the sametime into what was said on this head in my second Speech to the first Congress\u2014merely with a view to see what was said on the subject at that time, and this you will perceive was not so much to the point as I want to express now\u2014though it may, if proper, be glanced at, to shew that the subject had caught my attention early.\nBut to be candid, I much question whether a recommendation of this measure to the Legislature will have a better effect now than formerly. It may shew indeed my sense of its importance, and that is a sufficient inducement with me to bring the matter before the public in some shape or another, at the closing Scenes of my political exit. My object for proposing to insirt it where I did (if not improper) was to set the People to ruminating on the importance of the measures \u27e8as the\u27e9 most likely means of bringing it to pass.\nWith much truth \u2003 I am Your Affectionate\nGo: Washington\nColo. A. Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0207", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Isaac Sherman, 7 September 1796\nFrom: Sherman, Isaac\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nNew York, September 7, 1796. \u201cI have not been able to get money to pay my rent for the quarter which became due on the first day of august last, amounting to thirteen pounds fifteen shillings, and the Landlord is extreamly pressing for the money, I have therefore no other alternative than to refer him to you for the money.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0209", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Rufus King, 10 September 1796\nFrom: King, Rufus\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nLondon Sep. 10. 1796\nDear Sir\nI received this morning a Letter from Mr. Monroe dated Paris August 28. of which the following is an extract\u2014\u201cAs soon as the order of this Government, as notified by the minister of foreign Affairs to Barthelemi the present Ambassador at Basle appeared in the Papers, for it was never notified to the foreign ministers here, I applied for information whether orders were issued for the Seizure of neutral vessels, stating Equally as the motive of my application a report apparently well authenticated, that one of our vessels had been lately taken near our own coast, and was informed that no such order was issued, and further that none such would be, in case the British did not seize our vessels. I am happy to give you this information, because I flatter my self the Knowledge of this fact may be useful in respect to our commerce with the Country in which you reside.\u201d I have in a former Letter told you that the British Government deny that any order has been lately issued, or that any order exists, authorising the seizure of neutral Cargoes bound to the french ports as was alledged to be the case in the Letter from the french Minister of for. Affairs to Barthelemi. The foregoing Extract is all I know from Mr. Monroe respecting the Resolution of the french Government communicated by their Minister of for. Affairs to their Ambassador at Basle. You will have seen the Letter to Barthelemi, which is undoubtedly authentic, and you now have what mr. Munroe reports as the result of his Application on the Subject. I make no comments nor inferences\u2014you have the Materials and can make your own interpretations.\nVery sincerely \u2003 Yrs\nR. King\nPS. I have seen Mrs. Church and family this morning at Mr. Pinckney\u2019s they are all well. Mr. Pinckney will sail for Carolina about the 22d. or 25th. of this month.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0210", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Rufus King, 11 September 1796\nFrom: King, Rufus\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nLondon Sep. 11. 1796\nImmediately after the publication of the Letter from the french Government to their Minister Barthelemi at Basle, announcing their determination to seize the cargoes of neutral vessels destined to the English Ports, I wrote to Mr. Monroe informing him that the Br. Gov. disavowed the having issued any recent order for the capture of neutral Cargoes bound to french Ports as alledged in the letter to Barthelemi\u2014and by a Letter that I received today from Mr. Monroe under date of the 28. of August he says that on application for Information whether the fr. Gov. have issued an order for the capture of neutral Vessels he has been informed that no such order has been issued, and further that none will be, in case the British did not seize our vessels.\nI am not quite able to explain this Transaction, I therefore give you fresh Facts as I know\u2014you must seek for interpretations.\nvery sincerely and affectionately \u2003 Yr. ob. Ser.\nRufus King\nColo. Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0211", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, [12 September 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Pinckney, Charles Cotesworth\n[New York, September 12, 1796]\nDr Sir\nI have received your letter transmitting me a draft on H & S Johnson & Co. for 857 Dollars & 14 Cents on account of Kinloch\u2019s debt to Mr. Church. Lest I should not see you here give me leave to request information in whose care the affairs of Mr. Church have been left by you\u2014& whether any thing more has been done with Mrs Cattle\u2019s alias Bowman\u2019s note. The above bill has been accepted.\nI trouble you with two letters, one to an old military acquaintance Fleury\u2014another to a person who not knowing what to do with his money when he left this Country deposited it with me upon my bond in duplicates between 6 & 700 pounds. It is very long since I have heared any thing of him. Perhaps he may not exist. You will oblige me by inquiry & if dead concerning his relations, as I am disposed to exonerate myself of my charge.\nMy best wishes for your happiness & success will follow you every where\nYrs. truly\nA HamiltonSepr 12. 1796\nP.S. You will excuse the use I make of your Name in these letters. Ducher was a member of the National Convention\nCharles C. Pinckney Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0212", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Phineas Bond, 15 September 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Bond, Phineas\nNew York Sepr. 15. 1796.\nSir.\nTwo days since a letter was delivered to me with a declaration of the bearer that it came from Mr. Lyston. On opening the cover, I found nothing except a letter from Capt Cochran (which though not addressed would appear to have been written to some public agent of Great Britain) and a declaration of David Wilson and Thomas Marshall respecting the ship Eliza. The superscription of the packet resembling your hand writing, I concluded that it might have come from you & that by some mistake the letter you had written me had been omitted and that on discovery of the omission, it would have been forwarded by another opportunity. Finding after two days waiting that this expectation has not been realized, I have determined to write to you on the subject.\nMr. Charles Wilkes had previously applied to me concerning this affair and had submitted to my consideration various papers. The result was that I discouraged a judicial prosecution.\nMy reasons are these\u2014\nTaking it to be true as stated that Cap Hussey brought from the shore within our territory persons who by force aided him to rescue the captured Vessel, I am of opinion that this circumstance would give jurisdiction of the case to our Courts on the application of the Capturing party.\nBut when on such application any of our Courts should hold jurisdiction it would in my judgment go into the merits and examine the validity of the Capture.\nHere these facts occur, that the Eliza, being a transport Vessel in the service of Great Britain, was captured by a French privateer fitted out of some port of France by Barney an American Citizen in quality of Armateur, Le Veill\u00e9 probably a Frenchman, Captain by Comission\u2014and was afterwards condemned as prize by the sentence of a Court of Admiralty at Dunkirk\u2014and as far as the direct proof goes purchased in virtue of that sentence by an American Citizen.\nIt is conjectured that two thirds of the Vessel may have belonged to a French house Messrs. Debaques; because it appears that Hussey paid two thirds of the purchase money in a Bill drawn by that House. But this is evidently a mere circumstance of suspicion & wholly inconclusive. Why may not the Debaques have been factors or Agents for Hussey? Why may not Hussey have purchased their draft towards the payment? One or the other of the two latter suppositions would no doubt prevail with the Court, if there was no collateral proof to the contrary.\nIt is also conjectured that the Eliza may even have continued the property of Barney. But all the documents now in the power of the Captor speak a contrary language. This suspicion then, however just it may be in fact, cannot be supported.\nThe question then is Would the Equipment of the Privateer by Barney be sufficient to invalidate the purchase by a neutral Citizen under the sentence of a Court of the Capturing Power?\nNo opinion of any theoretic Writer, nor as I believe, any usage of any Nation, nor the decisions of Courts of Admiralty will authorise, in any judgment, an affirmative answer to that Question.\nIf Mr. Barney comes within the 21st. Article of our Treaty with Great Britain, it would make him liable, if taken by Great Britain to be punished as a pirate. But it will be observed that the stipulation would not oblige the U States to treat him as such. And the article being confined to personal punishment may be supposed not to contemplate the confiscation of property captured by such a person.\nBut it would be to go an unheard of length to pronounce null the prize made under such circumstances by a Vessel fitted out of the Ports of the Belligerent power & regularly commissioned & after a sentence of condemnation.\nTherefore, and as the property in question is of little value, & as smart damages would be likely to attend a failure of the prosecution, I advised against it, as I now still do.\nYet, if Capt. Cochran or any person acting on his behalf shall desire the experiment to be made, however unpromising in my view, I shall esteem it a professional duty, and due to justice to a foreign power, to put the affair in a course of judicial investigation.\nWith esteem \u2003 I am Sir \u2003 Yr very Obed serv\nA Hamilton\nPhineas Bond Esqr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0213", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Abraham Van Vechten, 16 September 1796\nFrom: Van Vechten, Abraham\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Albany] September 16, 1796. \u201cIn the Causes of Mr Duane agst. the Tenants of Voght two Questions are likely to arise, on which I am directed to request your opinion as early as possible. The inclosed is a Copy of the only Writing which Mr Duane has from the Patentee to vest the Title in him. Quer. Does a legal Title pass by it, so as that we can recover on Mr. Duanes sole demise? In one of the Causes the Ancestor of Defts was a Tenant for Years of Mr. Duane. He died a Year or two ago & left Defts. in his possession, who agreed to deliver it up to Mr Duane by a certain Day. On the Day appointed Mr. Duane sent a person to receive the possession, who met the Defts. at the Door on a Cart going off with their last Load of Furniture &c. The Defts. declared they delivered up the possession to the person sent by Mr Duane, and then rode away. When Mr Duane\u2019s Agent or new Tenant came up to the Door of the House he found Voght & another person in it, by whom he was deterred from entering it. Thus situated Mr Duane\u2019s Agent &c went off & informed his principal that he could not obtain the possession, as a few Days after Defts. reentered as Tenants under Voght. Quer. Are not Defts. Precluded by their original Tenancy from controverting our Title? Their Transactions with Voght savour strongly of Fraud & Collusion.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0216", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Timothy Pickering, 21 September 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\nNew [York] Sepr. 21. 1796\nDr Sir\nSome time since Mr. McCormick spoke to me about the case of his Kinsman Mr. Pitcairn whom Mr. Monroe had prevented from exercising the functions of Consul. I can, in justice, inform you that this Gentleman is well considered in our City and that his political principles have been understood to be very friendly to the French Revolution; nor have we any doubt that his sentiments towards our own Government are altogether American. So that in truth there can be no shadow of political objection to him as to the Office for which he was intended.\nWith respect & esteem \u2003 Dr. Sir \u2003 Yr Obed Serv\nA Hamilton\nCol Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0218", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Steele, 23 September 1796\nFrom: Steele, John\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhilada. Septemr. 23d. 1796\nMy dear sir,\nI have the honor to acknowledge your letter of the 20th. inst. and to return you my unfeigned thanks for the polite and friendly manner in which you were pleased to speak of my appointment. Next to the pleasure which attends a faithfull discharge of duty, it will always afford me the highest gratification to be classed among those who are favored with your approbation.\nJohn Sitgreaves the united States\u2019s Judge for the district of North Carolina being in this city, I have concieved that it might be satisfactory to you to be furnished with his information upon the point stated in your letter. His notes are herewith enclosed for your perusal, and as circumstances which entitle them to consideration, it may not be improper to add that before his present appointment he was a lawyer of respectable standing in that state, and a member of the Legislature.\nIn addition to his letter you will also herewith receive the transcripts of three laws which I have caused to be prepared, and which are forwarded with an expectation that the expression of the legislature upon the subject will prove more satisfactory to your mind, than the information, or opinion of any individual.\nDuring the revolution war many laws were passed to ascertain the description of persons entitled to citizenship, but these laws having a particular reference to the then circumstances of the country are decred to be obsolete, and having been dictated by the spirit of the times, it is right that they should be so considered.\nAn opinion prevailed in North Carolina until the appearance of the late insurrection in Pennsylvania, that not having a population equal to the extent of our territory it would be expedient to open the door to european emigrants as wide as possible, and to this mistaken policy it must be ascribed that the important subject of naturalization has been so little attended to by the legislature.\nThe evidences of citizenship I have often known to be the subject of interesting discussions at elections, and although the Judges of the elections do not like the courts of justice settle the law for the State their decisions nevertheless serve to shew the opinions entertained by the best informed men among the people. In consequence of their decisions, in the part of the country where I lived, emigrants of distinction who either from a sense of personal rights, or from the nature of their pecuniary transactions were desirous to be armed at all points, have been usually advised to take the oath of allegiance before some Justice of the peace (out of court) capable of granting a certificate in decent form. This certificative is immediately presented to the Clerk of the court of pleas, and quarter sessions at his office who upon the payment of a perquisite 2/8 will subjoin a testimonial under the county seal in this form.\nNorth Carolina\nss\nAnson County\nBe it remembered that A: B esquire who administered the foregoing oath of allegiance to C. D was at the time of doing so, and is at this time one of the acting Justices of the peace for the county aforesaid, and being legally authorised to hold the courts, to administer oaths, and to keep the peace within the said county full faith and credit are due to his official attestation.\nIn testimony whereof &ca. &ca.\nSeal of the County\nA certificate of this kind supported by the requisites of the constitution I have never known to be disputed either in the courts of law, or by the Judges of the elections, the only tribunals where the rights of a citizen are usually scrutinized; but in all cases where the certificate is to be used out of the state or even out of the county the seal and attestation of the Clerk have been considered indispensable for this obvious reason, that the office of the clerk of the county, and the office of the private Sectry. of the Governor are the only two places in the state where the fact that a man is an acting justice of the peace can be legally authenticated.\nSometimes I have known, men who intended to travel, or for greater caution apply to the Court by petition, or motion of counsel to have their certificates admitted to record; this is attended with expence but never refused, unless it shoud appear that the certificate was obtained collusively.\nIt will afford me peculiar pleasure to understand that you have recevd. this letter safe, and that its contents are in any respect useful to you.\nI have the honor to be, \u2003 My dear sir, \u2003 With perfect respect, Your obliged friend and hume. Servt.\nJno. Steele\nThe honble.Colonel HamiltonNew York.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0219", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Angelica Church, [24 September 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Church, Angelica\n[New York, September 24, 1796]\nAt length, Dear Angelica our apprehensions are realized and your coming is deferred. But though life is too short to render it agreeable to lose even a winter in the passage from hope to enjoyment in any thing which materially interests us\u2014yet if you do really come in the Spring and bring with you Mr. Church it will afford us consolation, because it will leave less ultimately at hazard and may give us earlier the pleasure of seeing him. But prithee do not let the Winter freeze the inclination, and produce more procrastination. For one cannot always live on hope. Tis thin diet at best.\nYour friend, Mrs. Grattan, is strongly tempted to remain in Philadelphia. But we are trying to form a counterplot. She will be an acquisition to us, if what we hear is true.\nAdieu Give our Love to the younger part of your family, to Caty in particular mine. I am told she justifies all my anticipations of her. I take credit to myself for having discerned her worth in embryo when no one else had yet found it out.\nAdieu Yrs. Affect\nA Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0220", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Timothy Pickering, 24 September 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nDepartment of State Sept 24. 1796.\nDr Sir,\nI have just received your letter of the 21st relative to Mr. Pitcairn. As soon as the President had determined to change our Minister at Paris, I considered it not less necessary to make a change in the Consulate; and Mr Pinckney will go thither with the requisite powers on this subject. I have mentioned to him Mr Pitcairn as the gentleman whom he may safely and advantageously employ in the preliminary investigations of Mr. Skipwith\u2019s proceedings with respect to the immense property of American citizens which has been committed to his management. This investigation, and measures, for securing the property, I thought should precede any change in the Consulate. The mode suggested will naturally introduce Mr Pitcairn to his proper place, with this view I had some days since made particular enquiry about his character, and received such information as enabled me to recommend him to the confidence of Gen\u2019l Pinckney in the proposed investigation, and with an assurance, that his agency would be acceptable to our mercantile citizens. I am glad to receive your additional testimony in his favor, which I shall give to Gen\u2019l Pinckney.\nWith great respect & esteem, I am, &c\nTimothy Pickering\nP.S. I shall be obliged, by your communicating this to Mr McCormick, to whom I am indebted for an answer to his letter concerning Mr Pitcairn but which this may now supercede. But as it respects Mr Skipwith I think nothing should be made public.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0221", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jeremiah Wadsworth, 29 September 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wadsworth, Jeremiah\nNew York Sep 29. 1796\nDear Sir\nPermit me to introduce to your acquaintance and recommend to your Civilities the bearer of this, Mr. Hoffman, our Atty General who goes to Connecticut on the question of the Connecticut Gore. He will wish to engage the assistance of one of your Lawyers; will you assist him with your advice?\nYrs. Affectly\nA Hamilton\nJ Wadsworth Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0222", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Liston, 30 September 1796\nFrom: Liston, Robert\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhiladelphia 30th September 1796\nSir,\nMr Bond has communicated to me a letter written by you to him on the 15th of this month, on the Subject of the Ship Eliza, captured by Captain Cochrane, and afterwards retaken by the Master and carried into New York.\nThe letter signed by Captain Cochrane and enclosing a declaration of David Wilson and Thomas Marshall, which you received under a Blank Cover, was in fact intended for you, though not addressed, and was forwarded by me at his desire.\nMr. Cochrane had previously made an application to me on that business, and transmitted to me copies of a letter of Captain Barney to Mr. George G. Hussey, dated at Ostend the 8th of April, and of a receipt of the said Barney for the value of the Ship Eliza, said to have been purchased in the port of Flushing; requesting that I would take such steps as I might think proper in a case which appeared to him to be of national importance.\nI accordingly presented a memorial to the American Secretary of State (on the 12th inst.) claiming the restitution of the Eliza to the British Captors, on the ground that the original capture by an armament fitted out by an American citizen must have been illegal and that no regular trial, and consequently no legitimate sale, could take place in a port of Holland, into which it appeared that the vessel had been carried. I urged that these circumstances at least created a suspicion of the fair neutrality of the property, and of course justified the detention of the Ship, with a view to a discussion of the question in a Competent Court of Justice; that the violent recapture by the Captain became therefore a breach of the Law of Nations, which called for redress.\nI had judged however from the two abovementioned documents alone. You, Sir, appear to have had other information; since you state as a fact that the Eliza was condemned by the Sentence of a Court of Admiralty in Dunkirk. If this is the case, the question is essentially altered; and though I cannot admit of the regularity or propriety of the conduct of Captain Hussey, yet I agree with you in thinking it inadvisable to endeavour to obtain redress in a Court of Law in New York: at all events, as a friend of Captain Cochrane\u2019s, I frankly give it is as my opinion that no step should be taken in the matter till you are expressly authorized by some person acting on his behalf.\nI am, with perfect truth and regard, \u2003 Sir, \u2003 Your most obedient humble servant,\nRob. Liston.\nAlexander Hamilton Esqe", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0223", "content": "Title: The War in Europe, [September\u2013December 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: \n[September\u2013December, 1796]\nEvery step of the progress of the present war in Europe has been marked with horrors. If the perpetration of them was confined to those who are the acknowleged instruments of despotic Power, it would excite less surprize\u2014but when they are acted by those who profess themselves to be the Champions of the rights of man, they naturally occasion both wonder and regret. Passing by the extreme severities which the French have exercised in Italy, what shall we think of the following declaration of Jourdan to the inhabitants of Germany\nGood God! is it then a crime for men to defend their own Government and Country? Is it a punishable offence in the Germans that they will not accept from the French what they offer as liberty, at the point of the bayonet? This is to confound all ideas of morality and humanity; it is to trample upon all the rights of man and nations. It is to restore the ages of Barbarism. According to the laws and practice of modern war, the peasantry of a Country, if they remain peaceably at home, are protected from other harm than a contribution to the necessities of the invading army. Those who join the armies of their Country and fight with them are considered and treated as other soldiers. But the present French Doctrine is, that they are to be treated as Rebels and Criminals. German patriotism is a heinous offence in the eyes of French Patriots. How are we to solve this otherwise than by observing that the French are influenced by the same spirit of Domination which governed the antient Romans! These considered themselves as having a right to be the Masters of the World and to treat the rest of mankind as their vassals.\nHow clearly is it proved \u27e8by\u27e9 all \u27e8\u2013\u27e9 that the praise of a \u27e8\u2013\u27e9 world is justly due to Christianity. War, by the influence of the humane principles of that Religion, had been stripped of half its terrors. The French renounce christianity & they relapse into Barbarism. War resumes the same hideous and savage form, which it wore in the ages of Roman and Gothic Violence.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0224", "content": "Title: Account with Archibald Drummond, 4 October 1796\nFrom: Drummond, Archibald,Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: \nNew York Octobr. 4th. 1796.\nCol: Hamilton\nTo Archibd Drummond, Dr.\nDecr.\n1 large slate\n2 Pencils\n1\u2003Copy\n1 Ashes Grammr.\n1 Espinasses\n4 papers ink powdr.\nJany.\n4th\n1 box pounce\n1 Sett bills Exchange\n1 Qr. Imperiel papr.\n1 Powel & Devises\nFeby.\n1 pen knife\n\u00bd Hund Quills 6/ Wafers\n18th.\n\u00bc\u2003Do.\u2003Do.\nSlate pencil\nMarch\n2 Hundd. Quills\n1 Ream thick 4to. posts\nWafers\n6 Sheets bills Exchange\n21st\n1 box pounce\nApril\n1 Kyd. on bills\n1 Stick wax\n19th\n1 Slate pencil\nMay\n11th.\n12 Skins parchments\n1 Ream fools cap\n1 Do 4to. Posts\n1 Do. fools cap No. 4\nJune\n6th.\n\u00bc Hundd. Quills\n1 Stick wax\n6 Skins parchment\n25th\n6 Sticks wax\n29th\n1 tin box wafers\nJuly\n1st\n1 blk book\n20th.\n1 Greek Testament\n28th.\n1 Hundd. Quills\nSand\nIndia rubr.\nPounce\nAugt.\n1 blank book\n30th.\n10 Skins parchment\nSeptr.\n6 papers Ink powdr.\n8th.\n\u00bd Hundd. Quills\n13th.\n8 Volms. Spectator", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0225", "content": "Title: Receipt from Peter Goelet, [4 October 1796]\nFrom: Goelet, Peter\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[New York, October 4, 1796]\nReceived New York Octo 4 1796 of Alexander Hambleton Esqr. Six Hundered and fourty One pounds being principle and Interest on the third Instalment of the Purches Money for Lands bught at Acction belonging to the American Iron Company as mentioned in the Receipt of the first payment.\nPG", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0226", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Walker, 4 October 1796\nFrom: Walker, Benjamin\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nNew York, October 4, 1796. \u201cIt is six months since I furnished Col Smith with a Copy of the inclosed accounts and pressed him for a settlement.\u2026 Col Smith himself cannot require this nor can he be surprized that I desire you to commence process against him without any further delay this and nothing else will bring this tedious business to an issue.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0228", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Wilson, 6 October 1796\nFrom: Wilson, James\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia, October 6, 1796. On October 12, 1796, Hamilton wrote to Th\u00e9ophile Cazenove: \u201cI have received two letters of the 6th & 10th of October from Judge James Wilson.\u201d Letter of October 6 not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0231", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Nicholas Low, [12 October 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Low, Nicholas\n[New York, October 12, 1796]\nMr. Hamilton will thank Mr. Low if not inconvenient for the loan of 100 Dollars for a few days.\nOctober 12. 1796", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0232", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Heth, 14 October 1796\nFrom: Heth, William\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nBerm Hundred [Virginia] 14th Octr 1796\nDear Sir\nI have only three minutes allowd to ask whether you received a private letter with part of a news paper enclosed some time last Winter addressed to the particular care of Capt Stratton. The piece alluded to was written by yr Hble servt\u2014and the letter contained observations, intended only for yourself. Let me hear from you on this subject I pray.\nYou have herewith one of our papers, containing some pieces, which it is hoped by many in this part of the world, will be republished in the Northern papers.\nIt is the duty of every honest Man to exert himself at the present crisis. Every little may help.\nYrs truly\nW Heth", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0233", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Walker, 15 October [1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Walker, Benjamin\n[New York] October 15 [1796]. \u201cTroupe & I have conferred. We think, considering the magnitude of the concerns, the diversifications of it into sub-branches\u2014the ability of parties &c.\u2014We may reasonably expect each of us as a Retainer for each of your principals \u00a350. that is to\nTo Hamilton\nNY Curry\nFor Pulteney\nFor Horneby\nSame to Troupe\nWe shall consider this as a retainer in all matters with Smith or growing out of his Agency.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0234", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 17 October 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n(Private)\nPhilada. October 17. 1796\nDear Sir,\nPermit me to ask your opinion on the following points.\n1. Ought we or ought we not to permit Sales of Prizes to French national Ships of War, as formerly, in payment of duties?\n2. In case of an affirmative answer to the first question; What is to be regarded as evidence of a national Ship? Will the Certificate of a French Commissioner in the West Indies, or of a Consul or the French Minister in the United States be sufficient provided nothing appears in the Commission of the Vessel contradictory to their Certificate.\n3. May we keep an Inspector of the Revenue on board a prize during her continuance in our Ports?\n4th. In case a prize requires reparation, may a part of her Cargo be sold, sufficient to defray expences, on payment of duties?\n5th. In case a prize Vessell is condemned, as incapable of reparation, may the Prize goods be exported in one or other Neutral Vessells as French Property?\n6th. Who is to Judge when it is necessary to unlade a Vessell for the purpose of making reparations, is the suggestion of a French Prize Master or Consul sufficient?\n7th. Shall the Cargoes of Prizes be sold or any part of them for the reparation of any Vessell, or the payment of any expence, not incident to the identical Vessell in which the Cargoes arrived?\n8th. Who is to Judge of the quantity sufficient for making reparations, in case any Sale is lawful?\n9th. If after a Vessell is condemned as incapable of reparation She should be notwithstanding repaired, is she to be permitted to depart?\n10th. Is it or is it not, the right of a Collector, to treat French Prizes, in the same manner as Vessells, which report themselves as bound to a Foreign Port or which arrive in distress: See Sect. 18th. & 38th. of the Collection Law.\nThe 18th. & 38th. Sections of the Collection Law appear to have provided for cases not very dissimilar from those of Prizes to Privateers, which in contemplation of Law must be considered as coming into our Ports merely for refreshments; the requiring of a Bond on their departure may not however be proper.\nWe shall on the subject of these Prizes be vexed with every kind of uncandid ingenuity\u2014there is danger of loosing the Revenue, while at the same time Sales may not be prevented. You will see that not only public questions which affect our neutrality, but Revenue questions are concerned. There are too many who will not miss a good opportunity to purchase West India produce when it can be had below the market price. In every point of view the subject is embarrassing. Please to reply as soon as possible.\nIn haste I remain \u2003 Yrs with much respect\nO. W.\nAlexander Hamilton Esquire", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0235", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Elizabeth Hamilton, 21 October 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Elizabeth\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[New York, October 21, 1796. On October 26, 1796, Hamilton wrote to Elizabeth Hamilton: \u201cI received yours of Friday last.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0236", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Hall and Stimpson, 24 October 1796\nFrom: Hall and Stimpson\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nBoston, October 24, 1796. \u201cWe wrote you the 20th. Septr. respecting the cause that was left in your hands by Mr Stimpson against Mr Isaac Riley as a partner of Seth Wetmore; but not having heard from you respecting it and there being a report that you have since been engaged in behalf of Riley\u2014the Gentlemen who are Creditors here and have supposed that you was taking the necessary steps of the Law in their behalf, are anxious to hear how the bussiness is situated.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0237", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Hamilton, 25 [October] 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Hamilton, Elizabeth\nAlbany 25. [October] 1796\nThe extreme hurry in which I have been My Dear Eliza since my arrival here has prevented my writing to you. This serves merely to inform you that my health is as good as when I left you & let me add that your father is much better than he was & the rest of your family in good health. I need not add that I am impatient to be restored to your bosom & to the presence of my beloved Children. Tis hard that I should ever be obliged to quit you & them. God bless you my beloved. Take care of yourself.\nYrs. with unbounded Affec\nA Hamilton\nMr. Renselaer sets out for the City this day. I have asked him to stay at our house.\nMrs. H", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0238", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Hamilton, [26 October 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Hamilton, Elizabeth\n[Albany, October 26, 1796]\nMy Dear Eliza\nI wrote you yesterday by Mr. Rensselaer. Since that I received yours of Friday last which gave me much pleasure. I was consoled to hear that you & our darling little ones were well\u2014though I shall be anxious till I rejoin you lest there should be a relapse or some new attack.\nYour father is really better and as I hope in no present danger. His breaking out looks less & less like mortification & his appetite strength & spirits are good. A fit of the gout will probably relieve him from the breaking out. Peggy has promised to have your beef prepared. Eggs are more scarce & nearly as dear as at New York. I shall see what can be done as to butter.\nYr. ever tender & devoted\nAHOctober 26. 179\u27e86\u27e9\nI expect to leave this on Friday by Water.\nMrs E H", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0239", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 27 October 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nAlbany October 271796\nDear Sir\nYour letter of the 17th instant found me at Albany attending the Supreme Court. I have no copy of the Treaty with G B at hand, but I am well satisfied from memory that the true interpretation of that Treaty, enforcing in this respect the true Rule of neutrality, forbids our permitting the sale of a prize taken & brought in by a French National Ship, equally as if by a Privateer\u2014and that the prise vessel herself with her Cargo ought to depart our Ports. I hasten to give you my opinion thus far. I reserve to consider more at leisure what exceptions absolute necessity may justify. But this is clear, that as far as it may admit any, the exception must be measured & restricted by the necessity & as soon as possible you must return into the path of the Treaty.\nThus if the prize Vessel was absolutely insufficient to proceed to sea\u2014her cargo ought to be sent out of the Country in another Vessel & care ought to be taken that it does not go out under false colours. Our Own Officers no doubt must inspect & ascertain any case of necessity which may be suggested.\nPray my good friend Let there be no evasions.\nYrs. Affecty\nA Hamilton\nO W Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0240", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Pierre August Caron de Beaumarchais, [October 1796]\nFrom: Beaumarchais, Pierre August Caron de\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nMr hamilton avocat.\nParis le 8 Briumaire an 5 r\u00e9pondantau 29 8bre, 1796. (vieux Stile)\nMonsieur\nTriplicata.\nUn des hommes de mon pays que jai le plus honor\u00e9s, estim\u00e9s et ch\u00e9ris, L\u2019ancien \u00e9v\u00e8que D\u2019autun, Taillerand P\u00e9rigord, est revenu de L\u2019am\u00e9rique en france. Ind\u00e9pendament du plaisir de retrouver un ami Bienveillant \u00e9chapp\u00e9 comme moi a la hache de nos Boureaux; j\u2019etais fort empress\u00e9 d\u2019acqu\u00e9rir par lui les lumi\u00e8res qu\u2019un homme de Sa force pouvait me transmettre a Paris, Sur L\u2019esprit qui compose et gouverne aujourd\u2019hui le peuple Am\u00e9ricain; Ce Peuple avec lequel mon Entousiasme connu pour la cause qu\u2019il Soutenait, m\u2019a mis il y a plus de vingt ans en liaison Si utile a Ses plus puissans int\u00e9r\u00e8ts; mais dont les d\u00e9sirs de justice accumul\u00e9s depuis vingt ans, ont caus\u00e9 en partie la ruine de ma Fortune!\nCe qui m\u2019a le plus ranim\u00e9, dans la conf\u00e9rence amicale du tr\u00e8s obligeant Taillerand, est, de Sa part, la certitude qu\u2019il m\u2019a donn\u00e9e d\u2019avoir v\u00e9cu deux ans dans la liaison la plus intime avec le colonel Alexandre hamilton, ex ministre, et l\u2019homme Selon lui, le plus Sup\u00e9rieur en tous genres dont votre Am\u00e9rique S\u2019honore. (je cite Sa propre expression) A quoi je me Suis \u00e9cri\u00e9, plein de joie; ah! c\u2019est bien le Seul homme aussi de l\u2019\u00e9quit\u00e9 duquel j\u2019aye a me louer dans ce pays!\nMon ami m\u2019a f\u00e9licit\u00e9 d\u2019avoir eu l\u2019occasion de pouvoir rendre un juste hommage aux qualit\u00e9s de M hamilton; car il a lu chez un de nos amis, Casenove a Philadelphie, le m\u00e9moire en forme de lettre que, dans ma d\u00e9tresse a hambourg, je vous ai adress\u00e9 en mars 1795. Ce Mr hamilton, cet homme juste, m\u2019a t\u2019il dit, que vous invoqui\u00e9s alors comme ministre, en craignant qu\u2019il n\u2019abandonnat Ses fonctions avant la fin de vos affaires, les a trop tot, pour vous, abandonn\u00e9es. Aujourdhui ce mesme hamilton, rentr\u00e9 modestement dans la classe des Citoyens non fonctionnaires publics, mais ayant conserv\u00e9 le respect g\u00e9n\u00e9ral, est, dans le continent du nord, le plus grand des jurisconsultes, et le premier des avoc\u00e2ts Sous la clientelle de qui tout ce qui Souffre vont Se mettre. heureux les clients qu\u2019il adopte! Et je vous regarderais comme un des plus heureux vous mesme, Si vous parven\u00e9s a l\u2019engager de Se faire votre effenseur officiel. Je vais joindre, a t\u2019il ajout\u00e9, toutes mes instances aux v\u00f4tres. Et en effet, Monsieur, cet ami g\u00e9n\u00e9reux consent a vous \u00e9crire pour imprimer une plus grande force a ma pri\u00e8re, par la Sienne, c\u2019est ce que Sa lettre vous prouve.\nJe charge donc mon correspondant, Mr Chev\u00e2li\u00e9 de Newyork, de vous remettre cette lettre, dont l\u2019intention Sans r\u00e9serve est de vous Supplier, Monsieur, de m\u2019accepter comme client, Soit pour Soutenir tous mes droits, Sous quelque forme judiciaire qu\u2019ils doivent \u00eatre deffendus: Soit pour arranger mon affaire avec le congr\u00e9s g\u00e9n\u00e9ral par voie de conciliation, tant Sur la liquidation de mes cr\u00e9ances av\u00e9r\u00e9es, que Sur la forme des paiemens dont je vous constitue L\u2019arbitre; vous promettant et m\u2019engageant, comme j\u2019ai d\u00e9ja eu L\u2019honneur de vous l\u2019\u00e9crire, de n\u2019en appeler a nul autre, Sur toutes les conditions auxquelles votre prudence m\u2019aura Soumis, lorsque vous les aur\u00e9s pay\u00e9es en pleine connaissance des faits. C\u2019est moins ma cause que je plaide, moi qui touche presqu\u2019a la fin mon orageuse carri\u00e8re, que celle de ma fille unique que jai L\u00e9gu\u00e9e par vous aux Am\u00e9ricains, a doter avec la dette Si Sacr\u00e9e qu\u2019ils ont contract\u00e9e Envers moi!\nJe vais donc joindre a cette lettre un pouvoir Sp\u00e9cial offert au tr\u00e8s honorable homme, Mr Le Colonel Alexandre hamilton, aux fins d\u2019\u00e9tablir, Soutenir, deffendre et r\u00e8gler tous mes droits dans la grande affaire des Services que j\u2019ai rendus au Peuple Am\u00e9ricain; avec libert\u00e9 de passer mon pouvoir a telle personne qu\u2019il voudra, S\u2019il croit qu\u2019il Soit utile aux int\u00e9r\u00e8ts de Son client, qu\u2019un tiers en Soit plutot charg\u00e9, pour faire toutes les d\u00e9marches; en Se r\u00e9servant Seulement le titre de mon deffenseur et c\u2019est le conseil que me donne non Bienveillant instituteur, Taillerand.\nJe fais mon instante pri\u00e8re; jenjoins, j\u2019ordonne au Z\u00e9l\u00e9 Mr chevali\u00e9 mon correspondant de Newyorck, de vous passer, Monsieur, toutes les instructions intimes qu\u2019il a recues de moi en divers tems; car la nature des lumi\u00e8res qu\u2019il a du transmettre a mon juge quand vous l\u2019\u00e9ti\u00e9s; et quand vous av\u00e9s prononc\u00e9 que j\u2019\u00e9tais au 1er janvier 1792, cr\u00e9ancier du congr\u00e8s depuis 17 ann\u00e9es, Au moins de 2 millions 2 cent quatrevingt mille livres tournois, peut S\u2019accroitre. Et, pardonn\u00e9s G\u00e9n\u00e9reux homme! ce n\u2019est pas par d\u00e8ffiance de vos lumi\u00e8res que j\u2019ai refus\u00e9 d\u2019adopter le r\u00e9sultat fautif de votre compte. Mais c\u2019est parce que la perte en Serait \u00e9norme pour moi! Revoy\u00e9s le.\nLes instructions que Chevali\u00e9 vous a transmises comme juge, ne Sont pas telles qu\u2019il n\u2019en puisse ajouter beaucoup d\u2019autres, quant il parle a mon deffenseur. Mr chevali\u00e9 puisera donc dans toutes mes correspondances tant anterieures que posterieures, tout ce qui pourra vous prouver de combien mes justes cr\u00e9ances S\u2019\u00e9l\u00e8vent au dela de votre premier apper\u00e7u, quand vous \u00e9xamini\u00e9s L\u2019affaire comme chef de la tr\u00e9sorerie. mais, avec un arbitre aussi \u00e9quitable que vous, toutes les erreurs Se rel\u00e8vent Sans aucune difficulte. Le titre de mon avocat, Si toutefois vous L\u2019acceptes, comme Mr De Tallerand m\u2019en flatte, \u00e9xige Seulement que vous envisagi\u00e9s mes demandes Sous un point de vue different.\nEn effet le plus beau de mes titres, en \u00e9pousant il y a vingt deux ans, les int\u00e9r\u00e8ts du Peuple Am\u00e9ricain, ayant \u00e9t\u00e9 d\u2019avoir g\u00e9n\u00e9reusement d\u00e9daign\u00e9 les pr\u00e9cautions minutieuses que le commerce prend toujours quand il envoie des objets prohib\u00e9s, a un peuple opprim\u00e9 qui Secoue L\u2019esclavage, (Pr\u00e9cautions qui m\u2019auraient Sembl\u00e9 une tr\u00e8s grave insulte a la Brave nation a qui je consacrais mes Soins;) il ne doit en Solliciter le remboursement rigoureux, qu\u2019au titre du premier Ami que les Am\u00e9ricains ayent rencontr\u00e9 en France, et qui ait Servi chaudement les int\u00e9r\u00e8ts de leur lib\u00e9ration; car j\u2019avais cru devoir laisser a ce peuple, avant mesme qu\u2019il eut us\u00e9 de mes envois, la plus immense latitude Sur la forme, le fonds et la nature des paiemens qu\u2019il adopterait envers moi, en reconnaissant mes Services! nul ne Sait mieux que vous, Monsieur, quels Sont mes droits Sur l\u2019amiti\u00e9 de ce grand Peuple, Et avec quels dangers pour moi j\u2019ai tout brav\u00e9 pour me les acqu\u00e9rir! ma Lettre a vous et ma derni\u00e8re p\u00e9tition en ont accumul\u00e9 les preuves Sous vos yeux: Et cependant vingt ans Se Sont pass\u00e9s, Sans que ce peuple, except\u00e9 vous, m\u2019en ait fait la moindre justice! vous L\u2019obtiendr\u00e9s, j\u2019y compte et vous en rends graces d\u2019avance. Le Peuple Am\u00e9ricain, en vous voyant plaider ma cause, reconnaitre enfin qu\u2019il est plus que tems de faire droit a de tels Services rendus, remis apr\u00e8s vingt ans, pour la centi\u00e8me fois Sous L\u2019oeuil de Ses repr\u00e9sentans, Et par un homme tel que vous: il Sentira qu\u2019il est de Son honneur de ne point laisser exhaler, publier en Europe les justes plaintes d\u2019un vieillard ruin\u00e9 pour avoir consacr\u00e9 Sa vie, Sa plume et Sa fortune, au Soutien de la libert\u00e9 du Peuple qu\u2019il invoque, et qui borne Sa r\u00e9compense a demander un payement qui Seul peut assurer du Pain, oui du pain a Sa fille unique.\nje vous Salue, vous respecte, et vous aime.\nCaron BeaumarchaisCitoyen fran\u00e7ais, rappel\u00e9honorablement dans Sa patrie,apres 3 ans de proscription.\nNe Sachant pas, Monsieur, Si vous accepter\u00e9s, ou non, la d\u00e9fense de mes int\u00e9r\u00e8ts; Je laisse a votre profonde Sagesse a r\u00e8gler avec Mr Chevali\u00e9 mon agent, charg\u00e9 de ma procuration, Sous quelle forme il conviendra que ma Clientelle vous Soit remise Sans r\u00e9serve; M\u2019en rapportant parfaitement a vous.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0241", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, [1 November 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\n[New York, November 1, 1796]\nDr Sir\nI wrote you a line from Albany expressing an opinion from Memory, that our Treaty with G B prohibitted the sale of prizes made by French National Ships. Being just returned to Town I have looked into the article which relates to the point & I fear that opinion was wrong. In a day or two I will write you more particularly.\nAdets late communication demands a very careful & well managed answer.\nYrs.\nA HNovember 1. 1796", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0242", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 2 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPrivate\nPhiladelphia 2d. Novr. 1796.\nMy dear Sir,\nOn Monday Afternoon I arrived in this City, and among the first things which presented themselves to my view, was Mr. Adets letter to the Secretary of State, published by his order, in the moment it was presented.\nThe object in doing this is not difficult of solution; but whether the publication in the manner it appears, is by order of the Directory, or an act of his own, is yet to be learnt. If the first, he has executed a duty only; if the latter, he has executed it, and is himself responsible for the indignity offered to this Government by such publication, without allowing it time to reply\u2014or to take its own mode of announcing the intentions of his country towards the Commerce of these United States.\nIn either case, should there be in your opinion, any difference in my reception & treatment of that Minister, in his visits at the public Rooms (I have not seen him yet, nor do not expect to do it before tuesday next), and what difference should be made if any?\nHe complains in his letter, that he had received no answers to the remonstrances in former communications (the dates of which are given). The fact is, that one at least of those remonstrances, were accompanied by as indecent charges, and as offensive expressions as the letters of Genet were ever marked with; and besides, the same things on former occasions, had been replied to, (as the Secretary of State informs me) over & over again.\nThat the letter which he has now given to the public will be answered and (to a candid mind) I hope satisfactorily, is certain; but ought it to be published immediately, or not? This question has two sides to it; both of which are important. If the answer does not accompany the letter, the antidote will not keep pace with the poison\u2014and it may, & undoubtedly would be said, it is because the charges are just, and the consequences had been predicted. On the other hand\u2014may not the dignity of the Government be committed by a Newspaper dispute with the Minister of a foreign Nation, and an apparent appeal to the People? And would it not be said also that we can bear everything from one of the Belligerent Powers, but nothing from another of them? I could enlarge on this subject, but add nothing, I am certain, that your own reflections thereon will not furnish. Whether the answer is published now, or not, would it be proper do you conceive, at the ensuing Session, which will close the political Scene with me, to bring the French affairs, since the controversy with Genet fully before Congress? In doing this it is to be noticed, that there is such a connexion between them and our transactions with Great Britain as to render either imperfect without the other; and so much of the latter as relates to the Treaty with that country has already been refused to that body: not because there was any thing contained therein that all the world might not have seen, but because it was claimed as a matter of right, and the compliance therewith would have established a dangerous precedent.\nSince I wrote to you from Mount Vernon, on the eve of my departure from that place, and on my way hither, I received a letter from Sir John Sinclair an extract of which I enclose you\u2014on the subject of an Agricultural establishment. Though not such an enthusiast as he is, I am nevertheless deeply impressed with the benefits which would result from such an institution, and if you see no impropriety in the measure, I would leave it as a recommendatory one in the Speech at the opening of the Session; which, probably, will be the last I shall ever address to that, or any other public body.\nIt must be obvious to every man who considers the Agriculture of this country, (even in the best improved parts of it) and compares the produce of our lands with those of other countries, no ways superior to them in national fertility, how miserably defective we are in the management of them; and that if we do not fall on a better mode of treating them, how ruinous it will prove to the landed interest. Ages will not produce a systematic change without public attention & encouragement; but a few years more of increased Sterility will drive the Inhabitants of the Atlantic States Westwardly for support; whereas if they were taught how to improve the old, instead of going in pursuit of new & productive Soils, they would make those acres which now scarcely yield them any thing, turn out beneficial to themselves\u2014to the Mechanics, by supplying them with the staff of life on much cheaper terms\u2014to the Merchants, by encreasing their Commerce & exportation\u2014and to the Community generally, by the influx of Wealth resulting therefrom. In a word, it is in my estimation, a great national object, and if stated as fully as the occasion & circumstances will admit, I think it must appear so. But whatever may be the reception, or fate of the recommendation, I shall have discharged my duty, in submitting it to the consideration of the Legislature.\nAs I have a very high opinion of Mr. Jay\u2019s judgment, candour, honor and discretion (tho\u2019 I am not in the habit of writing so freely to him as to you) it would be very pleasing to me if you would shew him this letter (although it is a hurried one, my time having been much occupied since my arrival by the heads of the Departments, & with the Papers which have been laid before me) and let me have, for consideration, your joint opinions on the several matters herein Stated.\nYou will recollect that the conduct to be observed towards Mr. Adet must be decided on before tuesday next; that is, if he comes to the public room, whether he is to be received with the same cordiality as usual, or with coolness; and you will do me the justice to beli\u27e8eve\u27e9 that in this instance, and every other, I wi\u27e8sh\u27e9 it to be such as will promote the true policy \u27e8and\u27e9 interest of the country, at the sametime th\u27e8at\u27e9 a proper respect for its dignity is preserved. My own feelings I put out of the question.\nThere is in the conduct of the Fr\u27e8ench\u27e9 government relative to this business is i\u27e8ncon\u27e9sistency, a duplicity, a delay, or a someth\u27e8ing\u27e9 else, which is unaccountable upon honor\u27e8able\u27e9 ground. It appears that the order under \u27e8which\u27e9 Mr. Adet has acted is dated in July (early) \u27e8and\u27e9 yet Mr. Monroe has been led to believe (tho\u27e8ugh\u27e9 much dissatisfaction he says has appeared) that no such order had, or would be issue\u27e8d un\u27e9less Great Britain set the example; and in a \u27e8letter\u27e9 of August the 28th. he writes Mr. King to that effe\u27e8ct\u27e9 as the latter officially informs the Secretary of State: But I am fatigued with this and other matters which crowd upon me, and shall only add that I am\nVery Affectionately Yo\u27e8urs\u27e9\nGo: Washing\u27e8ton\u27e9\nColo. A. Hamilton\nPS. I find I have not time before the hour for closing the Mail arrives, to take the promised extract from Sir John Sinclairs letter, I therefore send the original, with a request that it may soon be returned as I have given it no acknowledgment yet. The articles which he requests my acceptance of are not yet come to hand. G W____", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0248", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [5 November 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n[New York, November 5, 1796]\nSir\nYesterday after the departure of the Post I received your letter of the 3d. I have since seen the answer to Adet. I perceive in it nothing intrinsically exceptionable\u2014but something in the manner a little epigrammatical and sharp. I make this remark freely, because the Card now to be played is perhaps the most delicate that has occurred in your administration. And nations like Individuals sometimes get into squabbles from the manner more than the matter of what passes between them. It is all important to us\u2014first, if possible, to avoid rupture with France\u2014secondly, if that cannot be, to evince to the People that there has been an unequivocal disposition to avoid it. Our discussions therefore ought to be calm smooth inclined to the argumentative, when remonstrance and complaint are unavoidable, carrying upon the face of them a reluctance and regret\u2014mingling a steady assertion of our rights and adherence to principle with the language of moderation, and as long as it can be done, of friendship.\nI am the more particular in these observations because I know that Mr. Pickering, who is a very worthy man, has nevertheless something warm and angular in his temper & will require much a vigilant moderating eye.\nI last evening saw Doctor Bayley our health Officer, who tells me, that the French Consul here, in a conversation with an assistant of the Doctors, who is a refugee from St Domingo, expressed a desire to make arrangements for the sick of a French fleet expected shortly to arrive in this port. I thought this circumstance worth communication.\nWith the most respectful Attachment \u2003 I have the honor to be Sir Yr. very Obed servant\nA HamiltonNov. 5. 1796\nThe President of the U States", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0249", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 6 November 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhila. Nov. 6th. 1796\nDear Sir\nI fear that your opinion of Nov. 3d has been founded on a partial view of the case.\nYou will remember that it has all along been a recd. opinion that the French had a right by Treaty to enjoy an indefinite asylum in our Ports: but that they could not claim the privilidge of selling Prizes in our Ports. The privilidge of an indefinite asylum in was also granted to British Ships of War & Letters of Marque, provided they had not made Prizes of French Vessells.\nI do not therefore see, that the 25th. article of the British Treaty can be construed to abridge a right which we have acknowledged to be accorded to France under our prior Treaty especially as this article saves the rights of France expressly.\nThe right of selling Prizes stands on different ground. It might have been refused to France in all cases: it was however granted by the President in all cases. The British Treaty takes away this privilidge from Privateers; but it leaves the cases of Prizes to N. Ships as formerly. The United States may pass a Law to take away the privilidge of selling Prizes to National Ships; but they have passed no Law on the subject. The Presidents decisions now, must be consistent with his former decisions except where Treaties or Laws require a change. As before mentioned there is no Law; the British Treaty speaks only of Privateers and it has been ever held that a stipulation affecting Privateers could not be extended to affect N. Ships.\nIn short though I wish that your opinion may be found tenable, yet I do not at present see how it can be maintained. This you will see renders some of the other questions proposed by me both difficult & important. There was no inclosure in your Letter. Have we done right with Mr. Adet. I wish to know as we may hear further. Must we or must we [not] publish further in the Papers if so under what circumstances?\nThe Federal Ticket is lost here. There are still hopes that Mr. Adams will be elected, but nothing more. I hope Mr. P. will be supported as the next best thing which can be done. Pray write to our Eastern friends.\nIn haste yours.\nOliv Wolcott Jr.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0252", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, [9 November 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\n[New York, November 9, 1796]\nDr. Sir\nI received yesterday your letter of the 6th & immediately wrote some additional letters to the Eastward enforcing what I had before written. Pensylvania does not surprise me.\nI have reconsidered the opinion given to you on the 3d, & see no reason to change it. The reasoning which leads me to the conclusion has not been sufficiently explained. I will therefore be more particular.\nThe articles in our Treaty with France which respect the subject are the 17th and 22.\nThe 17th consists of two parts\u20141st It grants asylum in our ports for French Ships of War and privateers, with their prizes, and with liberty to carry them freely thence to their own ports. 2 It prohibits the giving refuge in our ports to such as shall have made prize of the subjects or property of the French. It grants no right to sell prizes in our ports\u2014neither does the letter of the article prohibit prizes made of the French from coming into our ports\u2014it only prohibits the instrument of making the prizes. But the construction justly adopted by the President was that the prohibition, in its true spirit, excluded the bringing in of prizes whether coming with or without the capturing Vessels. Tis upon this part of the Treaty alone that prizes made by national Vessels of G Britain were excluded from our Ports. For\nThe 22d. article with France is wholly confined to privateers\u2014prohibitting those of other nations to fit, or to sell their prizes, in our ports. This article, if it had stood alone, would have left us as free to admit British national Ships, with their prizes, into our ports, as our 24th article with Great Britain leaves us free to admit French National Ships with their prizes. For these articles are the exact equivalent of each other. So that, as before remarked, the prohibition to the coming in or sale in our ports of prizes made upon the French by British National Ships was derived by construction & implication from the 17 article of our Treaty with France.\nIt follows that this article was considered as competent to prevent the coming in and sale of Prizes.\nIf so, the same or equivalent terms in the British Treaty must be competent to the same thing.\nNow the 25th article of our Treaty with Great Britain has equivalent terms. We there read that \u201cno shelter or refuge shall be given in their ports to such as have made a prize upon the subjects or citizens of either of the contracting parties, but if forced by stress of weather or the danger of the sea to enter therein, particular care shall be taken to hasten their departure and to cause them to retire as soon as possible.\u201d This prohibition includes here, as in the 17th article of our Treaty with France, a prohibition to sell prizes in our ports, not the prizes of privateers only but prizes generally.\nBut France, it is answered, had a prior right by the 17th article of our Treaty with her, to come and bring prizes into our ports.\nTrue, she had this right, and must have it still, notwithstanding the 25 article of our Treaty with Great Britain, but she had no prior right by Treaty to sell prizes in our ports and consequently, as the 25 article of our Treaty with Great Britain excludes, as the minor of a major, the selling of prizes in our ports\u2014the exclusion so far is in force, because it contravenes no prior right of France. As far as the Treaty with France gives a right inconsistent with the above 25 article, that right forms an exception, but the exception must be only coextensive with the right. The conclusion is that France retains the right of Asylum, but is excluded from the right of selling. This gives effect to the 25 article with Great Britain\u2014as far as the Treaty-right of France does not require an exception.\nAnd this construction ought to be favoured, because it best comports with the rule of neutrality.\nIt will also best agree with the Presidents former decisions. He permitted France to sell prizes, not because Treaty gave her a right\u2014but because he did not see clearly any law of the Country or of Nations that forbid it. But consistency does not require that this permission shall continue if there be any thing in the Treaty with G Britain against it. Consistency however does require that the same latitude of construction should be given to the 25 article of our Treaty with G Britain as was before given to the 17th article of our Treaty with France. The same latitude will, as I apprehend, exclude the sale of Prizes by France in the case in question.\nI regret extremely the publication of the Reply to Adet, otherwise than through the channel of Congress. The sooner the Executive gets out of the news Papers the better. What may now be in its power will depend on circumstances which are to occur.\nYrs.\nA HamiltonNov. 9. 1796\nOliver Wolcott Jun Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0253", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Robert Morris, [10 November 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Morris, Robert\n[New York, November 10, 1796. On November 19, 1796, Morris wrote to Hamilton: \u201cI \u2026 find your letter of the 10 Inst.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0254", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [10 November 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n[New York, November 10, 1796]\nSir\nI have been employed in making and have actually completed a rough draft on the following heads \u201cNational University, Military Academy, Board of Agriculture, Establishment of such manufactories on public account as are relative to the equipment of army & navy, to the extent of the public demand for supply, & excluding all the branches already well established in the country.\u2014The gradual & successive creation of a Navy, compensations to public Officers.\u2014Reinforcement of provision for public Debt\u201d I send you this enumeration that you may see the objects which I shall prepare for. But I must beg your patience till the beginning of the next week for the transmission of the draft, as I am a good deal pressed for time.\nThe Legislature having appointed Mr. Laurance district Judge\u2014a succession will of course be to be provided. A conviction of his competency, a high opinion of his worth, and a long established personal friendship induce me to take the liberty of precipitating a recommendation to you of Mr. Troupe, the present Clerk of the District and Circuit court (the Attorney of the District being known to be disinclined to the Office). Mr. Troupe is a lawyer, professionally very respectable, so that his practice is inferior in productiveness to no other\u2014but he has by the most unexceptionable means acquired a property sufficient to make it reasonable in him to withdraw from practice upon a salary such as that of the District Judge & latterly his health has somewhat suffered from a long course of excessive application. His moral character is without an imputation of any sort\u2014indeed no man in the state is better esteemed than this Gentleman. So that, I believe, the appointment would be considered as altogether fit. I trust however that in expressing myself thus strongly it will not occasion to you a moment\u2019s embarrassment, if any candidate more agreeable to you shall occur.\nVery respectfully & Affecty I have the honor to be Sir \u2003 Yr. Obed servant\nA HamiltonN York Nov 10th 1796\nThe President of the U States", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0255", "content": "Title: Draft of George Washington\u2019s Eighth Annual Address to Congress, [10 November 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: \n[New York, November 10, 1796]\nThat among the objects of labour and industry, Agriculture considered with reference either to individual or national welfare is first in importance may safely be affirmed without derogating from the just and real value of any other branch. It is indeed the best basis of the prosperity of every other. In proportion as nations progress in population and other circumstances of maturity this truth forces itself more & more upon the conviction of Rulers and makes the cultivation of the soil more and more an object of public patronage and care. Institutions for promoting it sooner or later grow up supported by the public purse\u2014and the fruits of them when judiciously conceived and directed have fully justified the undertaking. Among these none have been found of greater utility than Boards composed of proper characters charged with collecting and communicating information and enabled to stimulate enterprise and experiment by premiums and honorary rewards. These have been found very cheap instruments of immense benefits. They serve to excite a general spirit of discovery & improvement to stimulate invention to excite new & useful experiments\u2014and accumulating in one center the skill and improvement of every part of the nation they spread it thence over the whole nation at the same time promoting new discovery and diffusing generally the knowlege of all the discoveries which are made.\nIn the U States hitherto no such institution has been essayed though perhaps no country has stronger motives to it. Agriculture among us is certainly in a very imperfect state. In much of those parts where there have been early settlements the soil impoverished by an unskilful tillage yields but a scanty reward for the labour bestowed upon it, and leaves its possessors under strong temptation to abandon it and emigrate to distant regions more fertile because they are newer and have not yet been exhausted by an unskilful use. This is every way an evil. The undue dislocation of our population from this cause promotes neither the strength the opulence nor the happiness of our Country. It strongly admonishes our national Councils to apply as far as may be practical by natural & salutary means an adequate Remedy. Nothing appears to [be] so unexceptionable & likely to be more efficacious than the institution of a Board of Agriculture with the views I have mentioned & with a moderate fund towards executing them. After mature reflection I am persuaded it is difficult to render our country a more precious and general service than by such an institution.\nI will however observe that if it be thought expedient the objects of the Board may be still more comprehensive. It may embrace the encouragement of the mechanic and manufacturing arts by means analogous to those for the improvement of Agriculture & with an eye to the introduction from abroad of useful machinery &c. Or there may be separate Boards one charged with one object the other with the other.\nI have heretofore suggested the expediency of establishing a national university and a Military Academy. The vast utility of both these measures presses so seriously and so constantly upon my mind that I cannot forbear with earnestness to repeat the recommendation.\nThe Assembly to which I address myself will not doubt that the extension of science and knowlege is an object primarily interesting to our national welfare. To effect this is most naturally the care of the particular local jurisdictions into which our country is subdivided as far as regards those branches of instruction which ought to be universally diffused and it gives pleasure to observe that new progress is continually making in the means employed for this end. But can it be doubted that the General Government would with peculiar propriety occupy itself in affording neutriment to those higher branches of science which though not within the reach of general acquisi[ti]on are in their consequences and relation, productive of general advantage? Or can it be doubted that this great object would be materially advanced by a University erected on that broad basis to which the national resources are most adequate & so liberally endowed as to command the ablest professors in the several branches of liberal knowlege? It is true and to the honor of our Country that it offers many colleges and Academies highly respectable and useful\u2014but the funds upon which they are established are too narrow to permit any of them to be an adequate substitute for such an institution as is contemplated & to which they would be excellent auxiliaries. Amongst the motives to such an institution the assimilation of the principles opinions manners and habits of our countrymen by drawing from all quarters our youth to participate in a common Education well deserves the attention of Government. To render the people of this Country as homogeneous as possible must lend as much as any other circumstance to the permanency of the Union & prosperity.\nThe eligibleness of a Military Academy depends on that evident maxim of policy which requires every nation to be prepared for war while cultivating peace and warns it against suffering the military spirit & military knowlege wholly to decay. However particular instances superficially viewed may seem exceptions it will not be doubted by any who have attentively considered the subject that the military art is of a complicated and comprehensive nature, that it demands much previous study as well as practice and that the possession of it in its most improved state is always of vast importance to the security of a Nation. It ought therefore to be a principal care of every Government however pacific its general policy to preserve and cultivate indeed in proportion as the policy of a Country is pacific & it is little liable to [be] called to practice the rules of the Military Art does it become the duty of the Government to take care by proper institutions that it be not lost. A Military Academy instituted on proper principles would serve to secure to our country though within a narrow sp[h]ere a solid fund of military information which would always be ready for national emergencies & would facilitate the diffusion of Military knowlege as those emergenc[i]es might require.\nA systematic plan for the creation of a moderate navy appears to me recommended by very weighty considerations. An active external Commerce demands a naval power to protect it\u2014Besides the dangers from War in which a state is a party. It is a truth which our Experience has confirmed that the most equitable and sincere neutrality is not sufficient to exempt a state from the depredations of other nations at war with each other. It is essential to induce them to respect that neutrality that there shall be an organised force ready to vindicate the national flag. This may even prevent the necessity of going into war by discouraging from those insults and infractions of right which sometimes proceed to an extreme that leave no alternative. The U States abound in Materials. Their Commerce fast increasing must proportionably augment the number of their seamen and give us rapidly the means of a naval power respectable if not great. Our relative situation likewise for obvious reasons would render a moderate force very influential more so perhaps than a much greater in the hands of any other power. It is submitted as well deserving consideration whether it will not be prudent immediately and gradually to provide and lay up magazines of Ship Timber and to build & equip annually on[e] or more ships of force as the developpement of resources shall render convenient & practicable\u2014so that a future War of Europe, if we escape the present storm may not find our Commerce in the defenceless situation in which the present found it.\nThere is a subject which has dwelt long & much upon my mind which I cannot omit this opportunity of suggesting. It is the compensations to our public Officers; especially those in the most important stations. Every man acquainted [with] the expence even of the most frugal plan of living in our great cities must be sensible of their inadequateness. The impolicy of such defective provision seems not to have been sufficiently weighed.\nNo plan of governing is well founded which does not regard man as a compound of selfish and virtuous passions. To expect him to be wholly guided by the latter would be as great an error as to suppose him wholly destitute of them. Hence the necessity of adequate rewards for those services of which the Public stand in need. Without them the affairs of a nation are likely to get sooner or later into incompetent or unfaithful hands. If their own private wealth is to supply in the candidates for public Office the deficiency of public liberality then the sphere of those who can be candidates especially in a country like ours is much narrowed and the chance of a choice of able as well as upright men much lessened. Besides that it would be repugnate to the first principles of our government to exclude men from the public trusts because their talents & virutes however conspicuous are unaccompanied by wealth. If the rewards of the Government are scanty those who have talents without wealth & are too virtuous to abuse their stations cannot accept public offices without a sacrifice of interest which in ordinary time may hardly be justified by their duty to themselves and their families. If they have talents without virtue they may indeed accept offices to make a dishonest & improper use of them. The tendency then is to transfer the management of public affairs to wealthy but incapable hands or to hands which if capable are as destitute of integrity as of wealth. For a time particular circumstances may prevent such a course of things and hitherto the inference has not been verified in our experience. But it is not the less probable that time will prove it to be well founded. In some Government men have many allurements to office exclusive of pecuniary rewards\u2014but from the nature of our government pecuniary reward is the only aliment to the interested passion, which public men who are not vicious can expect. If then it be essential to the prosperous course of every Government that it shall be able to command the services of its most able & most virtuous citizens of every class, it follows that the compensations which our Government allows ought to be revised & materially increased. The character & success of Republican Government appear absolutely to depend on this policy.\nCongress have repeatedly directed their attention to the encouragement of manufactures, and have no doubt promoted them in several branches. The object is of two much importance not to assure a continuance of their efforts in every way which shall appear proper & conducive to the end. But in the present state of our Country we cannot expect that our progress in some essential branches will be as expeditious as the public welfare demands\u2014particularly in reference to security & defence in time of War. This reflection is the less pleasing when it is remembered how large a proportion of our supply the course of our Trade derives from a single nation. It appears very desireable that at least with a view to security and defence some measures more efficacious than have heretofore been adopted should be taken. As a general rule manufactories carried on upon public account are to be avoided. But every general rule may admit of exceptions. Where the state of things in our Country leaves little expectation that certain branches of manufacture will for a great length of time be sufficiently cultivated\u2014when these are of a nature to be essential to the furnishing and equipping of the troops and ships of war of which we stand in need\u2014are not establishments on the public account, to the extent of the public demand for supply, recommended by very strong considerations of national policy? Ought our country to be dependent in such cases upon foreign supply precarious because liable to be interrupted? [If the necessary Supplies should be procured in this mode at great expense in time of Peace\u2014will not the Security and independence arising from it very amply compensate? Institutions of this Kind commensurate only with our peace Establishments, will in time of War be easily extended in proportion to the public exigencies. And they may even perhaps be rendered contributary to the Supply of our citizens at large so as greatly to mitigate the privations arising from the interruption of trade. The idea at least is worthy of the most serious consideration. If adopted, the plan ought of course to exclude all those branches which may be considered as already established in our Country, and to which the efforts of individuals appear already as likely to be Speedily adequate.\nA reinforcement of the existing provisions for discharging our public Debt was mentioned in my address at the opening of the last Session. Congress took Some preliminary steps, the maturing of which will no doubt engage their zealous attention during the present. I will only add, that it will afford me heartfelt Satisfaction to concur in such auxiliary measures as will ascertain to our country, the prospect of a Speedy extinguishment of the Debt. Prosperity may have Cause to regret, if, from any motive, intervals of tranquility are left unemployed, for accelerating this valuable end.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0256", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, [11 November 1796]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia, November 11, 1796. On November 21, 1796, Washington wrote to Hamilton: \u201cHaving written to you on Saturday the 11th. instant.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0257", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [11 November 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n[New York, November 11, 1796]\nSir\nMy anxiety for such a course of things as will most promise a continuance of peace to the country, & in the contrary event a full justification of the President, has kept my mind dwelling on the late Reply to Mr. Adet & though it is a thing that cannot be undone, yet if my ideas are right the communication of them may not be wholly useless for the future. The more I have considered that paper the less I like it.\nI think it is to be regretted that answers were not given to the preceding communications of Mr. Adet. For silence commonly carries with it the appearance of hauteur and contempt. And even if the paper to be answered is offensive tis better & less hazardous to harmony to say so with calmness & moderation, than to say nothing. Silence is only then to be adopted when things have come to such a state with a Minister that it is the intention to break with him. And even in this case, if there is still a disposition to maintain harmony with his Government a Reply ought to go through our own Organ to it so as to distinguish between the Minister & the Government.\nThe reason given for not having answered the inquiry respecting the impressment of our seamen is too broad. When two nations have relations to each other, & one is at war, the other at peace, if the one at peace suffers liberties to be taken wth it by the enemy of the one at war which turns to the detriment of the latter, it is a fair subject of inquiry & discussion. The questions may be asked\u2014how does this happen, what measures are taking to prevent a repetition or continuance? There is always possibility of connivance & this possibility gives a right to inquire, and imposes an obligation to enter into friendly explanation. Tis not a matter of indifference to our friend, what conduct of its enemy we permit towards ourselves. Much indeed in all these cases depends on the manner of the Inquiry. But I am satisfied the principle is as I state it & the ground assumed by Mr. Pickering in the latitude of the expression untenable.\nThese opinions are not confined to me. Though most people like the air of what is called Spirit in Mr. Pickerings letter, but some of the best friends of the cause whisper cautiously remarks similar to the above.\nIt is a question, now, well worth considering whether if a handsome opportunity of rectifying should not occur with Mr. Adet, it may not be expedient specially to instruct Mr. Pinckney to make the explanations; putting our backwardness here to the score of the manner of the inquiry & qualifying the generality of our principle\u2014without giving up our right of judging of the measure of our compliance in similar cases.\nI know you will so well appreciate the motives to these observations that I run no risk of being thought officious, & I therefore freely transmit them being always\nwith true respect & attachment \u2003 Sir \u2003 Yr. very obed ser\nA HamiltonNov. 11. 1796\nThe President", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0258", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Tench Coxe, [12 November 1796]\nFrom: Coxe, Tench\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia, November 12, 1796]\nSir,\nOwing to the absence of Mr Whelen the matter with his concern was not settled till just before my late illness. I am now just getting out. The Pattersons take back their balance, about 10,000 Ds in their Lands and we take a moiety of the remainder. Out of these Mr Church will have to the amount of his remaining 17\u00be tracts, taking none but what have been ours, and by a fair draughting Lot. I gave them their choice of this, a suit or a reference. As soon as they execute the papers I will advise you. I shall have 20 tracts, which were to have been sold and to square the account by near \u00a31100. It is very inconvenient to me, but as the Lands are well worth the money & would be rising to a much greater Value, while the Matter was pending, it is much most profitable to proceed as has been done.\nI shall be glad to see Mr Church & if my advice or assistance in regard to any of his Pennsylvania property, can be useful, I shall always be ready to afford it.\nI am Sir, your mo. obt. st\nTench Coxe\nPhilada. Novr 12th. 1796", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0259", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-P\u00e9rigord, 12 November 1796\nFrom: Talleyrand-P\u00e9rigord, Charles Maurice de\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nparis 12 nov. 1796\nalexander hamilton New york\nDuplicata\nCher colonel hamilton\nVous recevres en m\u00eame tems que cette letter une r\u00e9clamation de M. de beaumarchais qui se confie avec un entier abandon a vous pour obtenir de l\u2019amerique une justice qu\u2019il invoque infructueusement depuis 20 ans. Vous aves appr\u00e9ci\u00e9 dans le tems les services qu\u2019il a rendus a votre pays. Il pense qu\u2019un nouvel examen de son affaire conduiroit encore a des resultats plus favorables. Je n\u2019ai pas craint de lui promettre votre inter\u00eat et vos conseils pour la suite de son affaire. Il sera heureux pour lui d\u2019etre d\u00e9fendu par vous: ce sera le plus sur garant de l\u2019\u00e9quit\u00e9 de sa demande. Beaucoup de personnes s\u2019y interessent ici: je partage sincerement cet inter\u00eat, et desire vivement pouvoir vous l\u2019inspirer. Du reste en reclamant vos lumieres et vos conseils dans le cours de cette affaire, Mr. de beaumarchais n\u2019a garde de vous demander les d\u00e9marches qu\u2019elle pourra entrainer: c\u2019est de diriger qu\u2019il vous prie: il doit s\u2019en remettre pour toute la partie active a Mr. Sterret qu\u2019il sait que vous estimes et a qui son intention est d\u2019offrir un inter\u00eat proportionn\u00e9 au succ\u00e8s de sa reclamation.\nQuoique je suis depuis deux mois en france, le pays est encore bien nouveau pour moi; je passe mon tems a l\u2019etudier voila au vrai ce que j\u2019y fais, et pas autre chose. A mon arrive\u00e8 les papiers publics francois et anglois se sont amus\u00e9s a beaucoup prononcer mon nom, a me supposer des vues, m\u00eame des occupations: de tout cela il n\u2019y a pas un mot de vrai. Il faut savoir la langue d\u2019un pays, avant d\u2019oser y parler: et j\u2019en suis encore bien loin.\nOn m\u2019a beaucoup questionn\u00e9 sur l\u2019am\u00e8rique au moment de mon arrive\u00e8. J\u2019ai repondu, comme je le devois, et en des termes qui, je crois, vous auroient convenu. Je n\u2019ai pas manqu\u00e9 surtout de dire que je ne croyois point a l\u2019\u00e9loignement des americains pour les francois; mais que, quand m\u00eame cet \u00e9loignement \u00e8xisteroit il n\u2019y auroit rien de plus naturel d\u2019apres la conduite folle et audacieuse des agents de la france qui s\u2019etoient toujours montr\u00e9s l\u2019ennemi de votre gouvernement.\nAdieu, cher colonel hamilton: en reclamant vos bons offices pour mr. de beaumarchais j\u2019use avec toute confiance du droit que me donne l\u2019amiti\u00e8 que vous m\u2019aves toujours montr\u00e9e. Vous m\u2019aves promis de disposer de moi dans toutes les occasions; je vous somme de votre promesse pour vous et pour vos amis.\nSoyez assez bon pour presenter mes hommages respectueux a Madame hamilton, me rappeler au souvenir de votre famille, et faire mes meilleurs compliments a MM. Seton, nic. low, hamond. Votre petit jean a t\u2019il toujours autant de g\u00e9nie? Vous vous souviendres toujours, j\u2019espere, que vous m\u2019aves promis de m\u2019envoyer dans quelques ann\u00e9es votre fils aine pour lui faire faire son voyage de france.\nJe vous renouvelle, cher Colonel hamilton, l\u2019assurance des sentiments d\u2019amiti\u00e8 et respect\navec lesquels j\u2019ai l\u2019honneur d\u2019\u00eatre \u2003 votre &c &c\nch. mau. talleyrand.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0260", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 12 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhiladelphia 12th. Novr. 1796.\nMy dear Sir,\nIn due time, and in good order, I received your letters dated the 4th 5th & 10th. instt: and shall be mindful of their contents.\nWhat construction do you put upon the information received through the assistant of D\u2014\u2014r B\u2014\u2014? and what notice, if any, should it meet with now, or hereafter, if application should be made for leave, or the event take place without?\nHaving sometime since, called upon the different Secretaries for such matters (within their respective departments) as required to be communicated to Congress at the opening of the Session, the enclosed papers are from two of them; one has given a shape to the ideas. From the Treasury department I have received nothing yet; and presume nothing will come from the Secretary of it except such matters as are of the fiscal kind, founded upon facts and statements.\nThe Secretary of War has closed his notes, or draught, with a communication, a declaration, and an invocation, which I had no intention of introducing, if such sentiments could be avoided with that decent respect wch. is due to such members of both houses as have been uniform & steady in their support of those measures of government which I have thought the interest & welfare of this country required, and accordingly recommended.\nThe reasons which have operated a reluctance in my mind to touch this subject at the opening of the Session, are two\u2014First, that it might not be supposed it was introduced for the purpose of a complimentary notice of the event, by those who might feel a disposition to offer it; and secondly, that it might not embarrass others, who had rather be silent; much less put it in the power of a third set, to oppose (if it should be attempted) sentiments of this sort, in the answer to the Speech.\nThese being my reasons, judge of their force. If they outweigh what may be considered as indifference\u2014slight\u2014or disrespectful in me, towards the body to whom the Address is made, let them prevail. If not, adopt in whole, or in part, or new model altogether to your liking, the sentiments, or expressions of Mr. McHenry.\nAmong the things noted in my Memorandums, & not to be found in the enclosures is an intimation to this effect\u2014viz\u2014that from the best information I have been able to obtain, and from the best view I have of the general system of European Politics, and of the state of matters in the Mediterranean in particular, our Commerce in that quarter will always be upon a precarious establishment unless a protecting force is given to it. If Congress in their investigation of the subject should coincide in this opinion, it will rest with their wisdom to decide whether that trade, in particular, is of sufficient importance to countervail the expence of its protection. How much beyond this to extend the view towards a navy, in the present uncertain State of our Fiscal concerns, merits consideration. My own sentiments lead strongly to the means of Commencement.\nThis last article in addition to the several matters contained in the enclosures, and what will naturally flow from the texts mentioned in your letter, together with a general reference to the proper Officers for estimates\u2014Papers\u2014&ca.\u2014alluded to in the Speech will comprehend every thing that has occured to me, as necessary to be mentioned at the opening of the Session; and I would thank you much for letting me have the whole as early in next week as your convenience will permit\u2014at any rate on Saturday; with your opinion on the propriety of giving Congress a full statement relatively to the Situation of our affairs with France, as suggested in my letter of the  instant.\nWith Affectionate regard \u2003 I am always Yours\nGo: Washington\nPS. I was in the very Act of closing this letter when yours of yesterday\u2019s date came to hand\u2014due consideration shall be given to the Contents of it.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0262", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from David Ross, 16 November 1796\nFrom: Ross, David\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nBladensburgh [Maryland] Novr. 16. 1796\nDear Sir\nBeing engaged in electioneering prevented my writing as soon as I intended that a Mr. Reese (formerly of Baltimore & now connected with a Whole sale Store in Philadelphia) is said to have circulated in George Town, that he had seen, or heard of, a letter of yours to your friends in one of the West India Islands, in which you boasted of the hand you had in promoting our General Government but that it was not yet to your liking & that you had hopes still of introducing a King & Nobility and that you had keept up a correspondence for three years with the British Minister Mr Pitt, but as to the nature of it that was left to every one to draw his own inference. I thought it proper you should know this & judge for yourself whether it was worth your notice. One of Co. Mercers party came full of it from George Town to this place.\nI have lately heard it hinted that you had acquiesced in Co. Mercers charge of your having through motives of friendship favor\u2019d the Contractor for supplying the Western Army with Provisions, by your declining the issue it had been put on, by your correspondence with him. I took the liberty of asserting that if nothing farther had passed than what I knew of, that I had no doubt but that you considered any thing Co. Mercer could say of you was not worth your notice after I had enclosed to you Capt. Campbells & my answer lodged at the Printing office at Annapolis, to Co Mercers \u201cDetail\u201d\u2014mentioning at the same time what those answers were. If anything farther has passed between you than what I know of I shall be glad to be informed and if there has not, whether I am right as to your motives for not doing what your correspondence intimated as I have no doubt but the subject will become more public & I wish to have it in my power to contradict & prevent the inference that may be otherwise drawn to your prejudice.\nCo Mercer has done as to Mr Adams \u27e8\u2013\u27e9 as to yourself charging him in a late public sp\u27e8eech \u2013 \u2013\u27e9 District with being an advocate for monarc\u27e8hy-\u27e9 partial quotations from his Works, and that he held the poorer classes of People in the greatest contempt\u2014& gave in evidence of it, that Mr Adams at a sumptuous entertainment, told Co Mercer that that was too good for him & that such a Democrat (or Republican) ought to be satisfied with black broth and brown bread. I was present.\nIf any thing of this sort did pass Mr Adams was ridiculing Co Mercers pretensions to equality & Popularity as I have no doubt he enjoyed the entertainment as much, & showed as much as if not more aristocratical self-importance than, any one of the Company.\nThis party now assume the name of Republican & those that oppose them are monarchy men & Aristocrats: & these very men that were such opposers of the existing Government now profess the greatest attachment to it & alarm the People with apprehensions for their Government & liberties if they do not elect Mr Jefferson. And as the great body of the People have no knowledge of the characters & as Mr Jeffersons advocates are in general much the most active I should not be surprized if they should be imposed on to do what is so much against their own interest by risking the Peace & happiness of this Country in one who appears not to have been attached to the measures of Government which have keept us clear of European quarrels & secured to us the benefits of Neutrality.\nIn our District we have had the pleasure of defeating Co. Mercers & Mr Masons speeches by electing one who is for persevering in our present measures of Government; altho\u2019 they had a majority in this County owing to the great confidence some of our leading characters have still in Co Mercer & his Politicks.\nIn haste \u2003 Your friend & obedt Servt.\nDavid Ross", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0263", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 17 November 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n(Private)\nPhila. Nov. 17. 1796\nDear sir\nYou must feel interested in knowing how our affairs stand with France, I give you a summary of them.\nThe Note to Colo. Pickering contains a summary of all the complaints of France since the commencement of the present War. They are as follows. That the Courts of the United States have taken Cognizance of Prizes to French Vessells. That the Treaty has been misconstrued, by permitting the admission of British Ships which have at some time made Prizes of French Vessells. Mr. Adets construction is that a B. Ship which at any time or in any place has made a Prize ought to be denied Asylum. Complaints are made of the proclamation of Neutrality & of the promptness with which the President requested Congress to enact Laws for preserving our Neutrality. The questions proposed by the President before Genets arrival are recited at length, & commented on as evidences of unfriendliness to France.\nLists of almost all the particular cases respecting privateers &ca are made out & the decisions of the Executive censured.\nIt is said that the Government has manifested partiality against France, by the alacrity which marked its conduct, in enforcing the Laws against them, & by tardiness in prosecuting the British.\nThat the American Government deceived France in respect to Mr Jays mission.\nThat the Treaty with G. B. is a violation of the Treaty with France, is equivalent to a Treaty of Alliances, & ought not have been made during the War.\nA fulfillment of the 11th. article of our Treaty with France is required which stipulates that favours granted to other nations shall become common\u2014this Mr. A. says will justify the French in taking British property on board of American Vessells, & in intending contraband as defined by the B. Treaty.\nFor these reasons, the commercial relations founded on Treaty are to be suspended untill the Government returns to itself. Nevertheless the French Nation regards the People as its friends.\nThe people in a declamatory rhapsody are directly addressed, in this \u27e8style\u27e9 \u201cO ye Americans\u201d\u2014an appeal is made to their passions; the injuries of the British during the last War are recounted, & the assistance of the French nation extolled; it is said that the suspension of the ministers functions is not to be regarded as an Act of hostility but of just resentment against the Government\u2014when the Government returns to itself, the French will forget the injury.\nFrance is said to be terrible to its enemies but magnanimous to its Friends, quick to resent injuries, but easily appeased.\nThe Executive & Mr. Jay are treated with personal indignity.\nOn the whole this is by far the most bold attempt to govern this Country which has been made. It is necessary to come to issue. Measures to prevent any panick or depression of the public opinion are necessary. We have the right of the question, but whether we shall be overuled by force will partly depend on the spirit of the people, partly on the issue of the Campaign in Italy & Germany.\nI am ever yours\nOliv Wolcott Jr\nColo. Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0264", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 17 November 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia, November 17, 1796. On December 21 1796, Hamilton wrote to Wolcott: \u201cI did not understand by your letter of the 17th. of November whether you meant or not to authorise the immediate commencement of the sale of the Stock.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0265", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Morris, 19 November 1796\nFrom: Morris, Robert\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nAlexander Hamilton Esqre\nPhila 19 Novr 1796\nDear Sir\nI am but just returned from the City of Washington after a long absence, and find your letter of the 10 Inst with others awaiting me, as yet I hardly know my Position, what I can or cannot do, but after looking round and counting Claims & Resources I will write to you again and you may rest assured that I will do all I can for your Convenience, for I am your constant & faithful Friend & Servt\nRM", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0266", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Rufus Putnam, 19 November 1796\nFrom: Putnam, Rufus\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nMarietta [Territory Northwest of the River Ohio]November 19th. 1796\nSir\nThe eight acre Lot No. 305 belong to one of the rights Drawn in your Name in the Ohio Companys Purchas Lies adjoining to one owned by Commedore Abraham Whipple (Late of Rhode Island) who is desierous of purchasing it from you, Commedore Whipple after being much reduced in his property (by the failure of public Credit: like most of us who Served there Country in the late War), has retired to this Country where he wishes to accommodate himself with a little farm Neer the Town of Marietta and could he add your eight acre lot above mentioned to the one he has adjoining, and on which he is building a House and makeing improvemint he concives he sould be compleatly accommodeted: at his Desire therefore I requst to know if you will Sell this Lot and if so at what price. And for your information on the Subject I take the Liberty to give you a Description of the lot on which you may rely viz It lies on the West Bank of Muskingum river about two mile from its mouth or junction with the Ohio, the Soil is of the first quality and has about thirty rods front on the Muskingum, there is no Stream or Spring ariseing in or runing throug it, nor any thing more to recommend it than what I have Stated.\nAs Lands of the Same quality are Sold neer this town it is worth ten Dollars an acre and if you are disposed to part with it at this or any other price you will oblige Commedore Whipple (and me as his frind) to give him the refusal.\nI have the honor to be with very great esteem & respect \u2003 Sir your most obedient Sert\nRufus Putnam\nP.S. an answer is requested.\nColo. Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0267-0001", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Theodore Sedgwick, 19 November 1796\nFrom: Sedgwick, Theodore\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nStockbridge [Massachusetts] 19. Nov. 1796\nMy dear sir\nThe letters inclosed will explain themselves. I will only add one fact\u2014the young man \u201cwho was going to transact some business up the north river\u201d came directly here in the stage which communicates with New York and of course went not nigh the river at all & is now waiting only for my answer. I need not say that this information must be kept secret, for however proper it may be, and I esteem it highly so, Dayton would doubtless deem it a breach of confidence.\nI am sincerely & affectionately your friend\nTheodore Sedgwick\nMr. Hamilton.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0267-0003", "content": "Title: Enclosure: Jonathan Dayton to Theodore Sedgwick, [13 November 1796]\nFrom: Dayton, Jonathan\nTo: Sedgwick, Theodore\n[November 13, 1796]\nDr. Sir,\nThis will be delivered to you by a young man who was going to transact some business up the North river, & whom, since writing the other letter, I have engaged to call upon you with it, & to bring me your answer. Every moments reflection serves only to impress me more with the importance of our fixing upon some plan of cooperation to defeat the designs of Mr. J\u2014\u2014\u2019s friends. If Mr. A. cannot succeed, is it not desirable to have at the helm a man who is personally known to, as well as esteemed & respected by us both? I assure you that I think it possible for you & me with a little aid from a few others to effect this.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0267-0004", "content": "Title: Enclosure: Theodore Sedgwick to Jonathan Dayton, [19 November 1796]\nFrom: Sedgwick, Theodore\nTo: Dayton, Jonathan\n[Stockbridge, Massachusetts, November 19, 1796]\nLast evening, my dear sir, I had the pleasure to receive your favours of the 12th. & 13th. insts. accept for them and for your friendly congratulation on my appointment to a seat in the senate, my sincere acknowledgments. Believe me, that event, however grateful to my friends, is not pleasing to me. I preferred a seat in the house to any public station whatever, but I had firmly decided to retire from that, on the fourth of March next. How far my resolution may be altered, by any possible event, I can at present hardly conjecture.\nI have been for some time past almost blind by an inflamation in my eyes, yet I cannot avoid attempting at least to answer to the interesting subject of your Letters.\nIndeed I do not regard with indifference the preparations which are making for the approaching election of a President. Probably the peace and happiness of our country, possibly its freedom depend on the result. You expect reasonably, therefore and shall receive a free communication of my views and opinions on this important subject.\nI believe for a thousand reasons, and particularly to impress a conviction on the authors of disorganisation & confusion, that success is not to be ensured by misrepresentation and falsehood, that Mr. Adams should be elected as President; and that to harmonize with the southern States, it is essential that the Vice President should be chosen from that part of the Community. By firmness, union, and adherence to the plan which seems to have been agreed on, we have every reason, I think, to expect success; for I perceive by the Philadelphia papers, which I received last evening of the 11th. that, not withstanding the immense weight of votes against us in that City, and in the County of Philad. there is, from the votes which are known, a ballance of more than 3,600 in our favour\u2014a number which cannot, I think, be counterballanced by the votes which remain to be Computed. It seems to me, then, that you desponded too much, when you believed that Pensylvania would be unanimous in the opposition. Should I however be here mistaken, I feel a confidence, that Mr. Adams will receive, at least, twelve votes on the other side of the Delaware, which will, I have no doubt, secure his election; for he will have the first votes of all the electors not only of your State and of mine, but of all the other states east of that boundary. If there should be no election, in the first instance, Jefferson will undoubtedly be chosen by the present Jacobin House of Representatives. But to avoid that I feel confident that we should not deviate, from the course, which the federalism of the country is persuing. For I cannot bring myself to believe, for a moment, that the federal electors in So. Carolina; and that there will be seven of that description is past a doubt, can act so faithless and insidious a part, as to throw away their votes, preferably to giving them to Mr. Adams. Every consideration of duty and of interest, will concur in inducing them to act fairly and honorably on this occasion. If they now conduct as you suppose, they never hereafter can expect our confidence or support, and without them they must be over-whelmed by their adversaries in that part of the United states, nor without our aid can they expect to continue their favorite candidate in the administration. Be assured they can never act so absurd & stupid a part. It ought; and I presume will be sufficient for them, that the eastern Gentleman have left to them, wholly uninfluenced, the designation of their man. And if no confidence can be placed in their honor, it is impossible even to act extensively, in concert. On the other hand should we deceive their just expectations, and obtain a President and Vice-President from this part of the U.S. it would produce and continue, for the four succeeding Years, an incurable jealousy and hatred, between those, whose union and mutual confidence, are indispensable to the welfare, and probably the very existence of the Government. Rather, then, infinitely rather, if that be the alternative, had I been the injured, than the injuring party.\nFrom every view, indeed, which I have been able to take of the subject, I have the most clear conviction, that every Elector on this side of the Delaware should give his suffrages for Adams & Pinckney. In that case we have every reason to conclude that they will be elected\u2014we shall certainly know that we have performed our duty. To this it may be answered, that Mr. Pinckney may have the greatest number of votes, and of course be the President, contrary to the intention of a great majority of his electors. This may undoubtedly happen, but if so, it is, if I may so express it, a constitutional mischief, and we must console ourselves with the purity and federalism of our chief Magistrate. But on the other hand, the mischiefs of a breach of faith, I do not mean expressly, but impliedly given, for \u27e8they certainly expe\u27e9ct and with reason that one of those offices will be filled by a southern man are innumerable and will, probably, be endless in their efforts. But I do not believe that event to be probable, for I think we have reason to expect that there will be several votes for Mr. Adams in Virginia, and none for Mr. Pinckney.\nRespecting Mr. Burr, no man better than yourself knows the estimation in which I hold him. But in my concience I do not believe that every vote in Massachusetts would give him the least chance of an election to either of the offices; and the reason of my opinion I will detail to you. The party with which he has generally acted, altho\u2019 they covet the aid of his character & talents, have not the smallest confidence in his hearty union to their cause. Indeed it is my firm belief that their veiws and his are not only distinct but opposite. Their want of confidence in him was incontrovertibly demonstrated in the support which the party gave to the appointment of Monroe.\nYou remember how anxious you was that Burr should be gratified by that office, and how complete the evidence was to both our minds, that he was defeated by the insidious machinations of that party. And wherefore was it that they prefered Monroe to him? Had they more confidence in monroe\u2019s talents? They are not so stupid. In his integrity? no. But they knew the one would & the other would not condesend to Act as their tool. They doubtless respect Burr\u2019s talents, but they dread his independence of them. They know, in short, he is not one of them, and of course they will never support but always effect to support him.\nI am sorry I cannot dwell longer on this subject. If it be agreeable to you, you will please to deliver the inclosed. I feel extremely anxious that we should not appear to play false with our \u27e8\u2013.\u27e9", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0268", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [19 November 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n[New York, November 19, 1796]\nSir\nI duly received your letter of the 12th. instant. My avocations have not permitted me sooner to comply with your desire. I have looked over the papers & suggested alterations & corrections; and I have also numbered the paragraphs I. II. III &c in the order in which it appears to me eligble they should stand in the Speech.\nI thought upon full reflection you could not avoid an allusion to your retreat in order to express your sense of the support of Congress\u2014but that the simplest manner of doing it was to be preferred. A paragraph is offered accordingly.\nI believe the commencement of a Navy ought to be contemplated. Our fiscal concerns if Congress please can easily be rendered efficient. If not tis their fault & ought not to prevent any suggestion which the interest of the Country may require. The Paragraph in your letter respecting our Mediterranean Commerce may well be incorporated in this part of the communication.\nYou will observe a paragraph I have framed contemplates a full future communication of our situation with France. At present it seems to me that this will best be effected in the following mode.\nLet a full reply to Mr Adets last communication be made containing a particular review of our conduct & motives from the commencement of the Revolution. Let this be sent to Mr. Pinckney to be imparted to the Directory & let a copy of it with a short auxiliary statement of facts if necessary be sent to the House of Representatives. As Mr. Adet has suspended his functions I presume no reply can be made to him; but not having seen his paper I cannot judge.\nThe crisis is immensely important to the glory of the President & to the honor & interest of the Country. It is all important that the Reply to Adets last communication to whomsoever made should be managed with the utmost possible prudence & skill\u2014so that it may be a solid justification\u2014an inoffensive remonstrance\u2014the expression of a dignified seriousness reluctant to quarrel but resolved not to be humbled. The subject excites the greatest anxiety.\nI have the honor to be very respectfully & Affectly Sir \u2003 Your obed ser\nA Hamilton\nNYork November 19. 1796\nThe President of the U States", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0269", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 21 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nPhiladelphia 21st. Novr. 1796\nMy dear Sir\nHaving written to you on Saturday the 11th. instant (accompanying it with enclosures) without hearing any thing from you in the course of last week, or by the Mail of this day, I begin to have uneasy sensations for the fate of my letter. To this cause, & to my solicitude to have the Papers returned, you must ascribe the trouble of receiving this letter.\nIf my last got safe to your hands, & indisposition, business, or any other cause should have prevented your looking into the Papers; I wish, even under these circumstances, that they may be returned to me immediately; for I have no copies, and have but little time to digest, and to put the several matters therein contained into form, that the whole may be revised again and again, before it is presented. Among these Papers do not forget to place Sir John Sinclairs letter to me, as I am desirous of giving it an acknowledgement.\nYou will perceive by the publication of Mr. Adets letter to Colo. Pickering (in Claypools Gazette of this date) that the French Government are disposed to play a high game. If other proofs were wanting, the time, and indelicate mode & stile, of the present attack on the Executive, exhibited in this laboured performance\u2014which is as unjust as it is voluminous\u2014would leave no doubt as to the primary object it has in view; but what consequences it may ultimately produce, is not so accessible to human foresight, as it may depend upon various contingencies & events. I have not seen the writer since my return to the City\u2014nor is it presumable I shall do it under present circumstances, unless courted on my part.\nThe letter of Mr. Adet having been committed to the keeping of Mr. Bache, by him\u2014Extracts having already been given to the public and other parts promised to be eked out (as would, it is presumed, subserve the purposes in view) induced an opinion that it was best to give the entire letter to the Public from Authority, and without delay, that the well informed part of the Community might judge for themselves.\nThe necessity of bringing the matter fully before Congress is now rendered indispensable and through that Medium it is presumed it will make its way to the Public with proper explanations. I am, as you know me to be, always and sincerely\nYour affectionate\nGo: Washington\nP.S. Since writing the above, your letter of the 19th. with its enclosures have been sent to me. Accept my thanks for them. On account of the other matter contained in this letter I forward it\u2014being written. Your sentimts. in this interesting crisis will always be thankfully received.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0270", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 22 November 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\n[New York] Nov 22. 1796\nDr. Sir\nI thank you for your Note sending me Adet\u2019s letter. The present is in my opinion as critical a situation as our Government has been in\u2014requiring all its prudence all its wisdom all its moderation, all its firmness.\nThough the thing is now passed, I do not think it useless to say to you that I was not well pleased with the Secretary of State\u2019s answer to Adets note communicating the order respecting neutral Vessels. There was something of hardness & epigrammatic sharpness in it\u2014neither did I think the position true that France had no right to inquire respecting the affair of seamen. I am of opinion that whenever a neutral power suffers liberties to be taken with it by a belligerent one which turns to the detriment of the other belligerent party, as the acquiring strength by impressing our seamen, there is a good ground of inquiry demanding candid explanation.\nMy opinion is that our communications should be calm reasoning and serious, shewing steady resolution more than feeling having force in the idea rather than in the expression.\nI am very anxious that our Government should do right on the present occasion.\nMy ideas are these\u2014\nAs Adet has declared his functions suspended, the reply ought not to be to him but through Mr. Pinckney to the Directory.\nIt ought to contain a review of our conduct from the beginning\u2014noticing our first & full acknowlegement of the Republic & the danger we run by it\u2014also the danger we incurred by other large interpretations of the Treaty in favour of France adverting to the sale of prizes.\nIt should meet all the suggestions of the Minister correct his misstatements of Facts & meet argumentatively his principles. Where arguments already used are repeated, it ought to be in new language or by quotations in the body of the Reply not by referrence to other communications annexed or otherwise which embarrass the reading & attention.\nIt should review calmly the conduct of France & her Agents pointing out fully & clearly the violations of our rights & the spirit which was manifested\u2014but in terms the most cautious & inoffensive.\nIt should advert to the policy of moderation towards the enemies of France which our situation & that of France, especially as to maritime power imposed upon us. It should briefly recapitulate the means of obtaining redress from G Britain employed by our Goverment & the effects they have produced.\nIt should explain why the Goverment could not safely adopt more expeditious modes why the Executive could not controul the judiciary & should shew that in effect the opposite Party as well as France suffered the inconven[ien]cies of Delay.\nIt should make prominent the consequences upon the peace & friendship of Governments if all accidental infractions from situation, from the negligences &c of particular officers are to be imputed with severity to the Government itself & should apply the remark to the case of the injuries we have suffered in different ways from the Officers & Agents of France.\nIt should make prominent two ideas, the situation in which we were with Great Britain prior to the last Treaty\u2014so as to shew that by the laws of Nations as admitted to us & declared to France & the world prior to that Treaty, all the things complained of as resulting from that Treaty previously existed & it should dwell on the exception in that Treaty of prior Treaties.\nIt should point out strongly the idea that the inconvenience at particular junctions of particular stipulations is no reason for one party superseding them; but should intimate that the President is willing to review the relations between the two Country and by a new Treaty if the same shall be approved by the Senate to readjust the terms of those relations.\nThe article in the Treaty with France respecting an admission of the same privileges which are granted to other powers should be examined. This plainly means where there is any concession of a positive privilege which the U States were free to refuse, not where there is a mere recognition of the principles of the laws of Nations.\nIt should be made prominent, that the U States have always wished & still wish to cultivate the most amicable relations & are still disposed to evince this disposition by every method in their power. That in what they have said they mean only to shew that they have acted with sincerity & good faith & have rather received than given cause to complain. That they have been disposed to make a candid construction of circumstances which might seem inconsistent with a friendly conduct in France & claim a similar candour in the estimate of their situation & conduct.\nThere should be an animadversion upon the unfitness of looking beyond the Government to the Citizens.\nAnd there should be these ideas properly couched that the UStates cannot admit that a just cause of resentment has been given that they appeal from the misapprehension which dictated this sentiment to the justice and mag[na]nimity of France for a retraction for it and for meeting them freely in the complete restoration of friendly intercourse; that France will not deliberately expect that they could make a sacrifice of self respect since she must be sensible that a Free People ought in every event to cherish it as a sacred duty & to encounter with firmness every danger & calamity which an attempt to make them forget it or degrade them from their Independent character may involve.\nThis would be the general complexion of the reply which I would give. The manner should be extremely caution smooth, even friendly, but yet solemn & dignified.\nYrs.\nA H\nThe alliance in its future operation must be against our Interest. A door to escape from it is opened. Though we ought to maintain with good faith our engagements\u2014if the conduct of the other party releases us, we should not refuse the release, so far as we may accept without compromitting our peace. This idea is very important.\nO Wolcott Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0271", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Stephen Higginson, 28 November 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Higginson, Stephen\n[New York, November 28, 1796. On December 9, 1796, Higginson wrote to Hamilton: \u201cYour Letter of 28 of last month I received.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0273", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Henry Sadler and Company, November 1796\nFrom: Henry Sadler and Company\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nNew York, November, 1796. \u201cWe take the liberty of inclosing Copy of an obligation given for payt. of Commission on a certain contract made with the Agents of the French Republic\u2014copy of which contract you have also herewith. As the F Republick would not pay for the Leather immediately on delivery\u2014nor in Specie, and not having yet paid for the Amount of Leather delivered agreeable to said Contract\u2014We conceive it has not been compiled with on its part & that the obligation given for payment of Commission is thereby annulled. We therefore request your opinion.\u2026\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0274", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jeremiah Wadsworth, [1 December 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wadsworth, Jeremiah\n[New York, December 1, 1796]\nDr. Sir\nI have lately received a line from you. I had been apprised of the machination to cheat us into Mr Burr but I have no apprehension of its success. My chief fear is that the attachment of our Eastern friends to Mr. Adams may prevent their voting for Pinckney likewise, & that some irregularity or accident may deprive us of Adams & let in Jefferson.\nJudge Tichener in passing through informed me that from something which had occurred to his recollection while here he feared that the votes of Vermont would be lost for want of being warranted by a subsisting legislative Act. If so, Adams will not have sufficient votes to prevent the question going to the House of Representatives & then we can be at no loss for the result. The whole number I venture to depend on for Adams (including Vermont & two in Pensylvania) is 73. Take off Vermont and there will be 69 which is less by one than the whole number of Electors.\nIt may be said Georgia also is irregular. This I do not consider as certain. But if so at first there was time enough to discover & rectify it. Not so as to Vermont. Besides who will take care to have the necessary authentic proof from Georgia? From Vermont it can be had & our patriots are not likely to neglect it.\nTis therefore a plain policy to support Mr. Pinkney equally with Mr. Adams.\nYrs. truly\nA HamiltonDec. 1. 1796\nJ Wadsworth E", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0276", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, [6 December 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\n[New York, December 6, 1796]\nDr Sir\nThe President of the Bank of New York called upon me yesterday and manifested considerable anxiety about the State of the Bank. It seems the course of things lately, and their large accommodation to the Government, have produced a heavy ballance against them in favor of the Office of Discount at this place, which has lately called for 100000 Ds in specie & it is apprehended may speedily call for more.\nThe President mentioned this situation generally with only this view to shew that the Bank would probably be under a necessity of selling the Stock pleged with them, if the Government should not be punctual. It was at the same time declared that nothing but necessity would lead to any measure inconvenient to the Government yet it was thought adviseable to admonish of the probable necessity.\nA Director, two or three days since, also mentioned to me that there was a sum of about 26000 Dollars of interest due to the Bank of which an account had been rendered but which was not paid\u2014adding that in the present situation every little would help. Observations like these are of course confidential.\nBut the situation requires & will make it good policy that if in your power you should come to the aid of the Bank of New York. It would be wise if possible to anticipate a partial payment. It will also be useful to arrest for a time too free calls from the Office.\nFriendly attentions & good offices on your part will inspire confidence & embolden the Bank to assist in future emergencies & it is very much the policy of the Treasury not to be exclusively dependent on one institution.\nYrs.\nA HamiltonDecr. 6. 1796\nLet me hear from you shortly on this subject. What is doing with Adet?\nO. Wolcott Junr. Esquire", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0277", "content": "Title: The Answer, [8 December 1796]\nFrom: \u201cAmericus\u201d,Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: \n[New York, December 8, 1796]\nFor The Minerva.\nThe French republic have, at various times, during the present war, complained of certain principles, and decisions of the American government, as being violations of its neutrality, or infractions of the treaty made with France in the year 1778. These complaints were principally made in the year 1793, and explanations, which, till now, were deemed satisfactory, were made by Mr. Jefferson\u2019s correspondence, in August of that year. They are now not only renewed with great exaggeration, but the French government have directed that it should be done in the tone of reproach, instead of the language of friendship. The apparent intention of this menacing tone, at this particular time, is to influence timid minds to vote agreeable to their wishes in the election of president and vice-president, and probably with this view, the memorial was published in the news-papers. This is certainly a practice that must not be permitted. If one foreign minister is permitted to publish what he pleases to the people, in the name of his government, every other foreign minister must be indulged with the same right. What then will be our situation on the election of a president and vice president, when the government is insulted, the persons who administer it, traduced, and the electors menaced by public addresses from these intriguing agents? Poland, that was once a respectable, and powerful nation, but is now a nation no longer, is a melancholy example of the danger of foreign influence in the election of a chief magistrate. Eleven millions of people have lost their independence from that cause alone. What would have been the conduct of the French directory, if the American minister had published an elaborate, and inflammatory address to the people of France against the government, reprobating the conduct of those in power, and extolling that of the party opposed to them? They would have done as the Parliament of England did in 1727, when the Emperor\u2019s resident presented an insolent memorial to the king, and published it next day in the newspapers. \u201cAll parties concurred in expressing the highest indignation and resentment at the affront offered to the government by the memorial delivered by Monsieur Palm, and more particularly at this audacious manner of appealing from the government, to the people under the pretext of applying for reparation and redress of supposed injuries.\u201d In consequence of an address from both houses, Monsieur Palm was ordered to quit England immediately. And is it not necessary that we should adopt some remedy adequate to this evil, to avoid these serious consequences which may otherwise be apprehended from it?\nThe conduct of the American government to preserve its neutrality, has been repeatedly justified by arguments drawn from the law of nations; and in the application of its principles, they have gone as far, in every instance, and in one particular instance, farther in favor of France, than the strict rule of neutrality would justify. It would therefore answer no valuable purpose, to state the same principles, and deduce the same consequences, in order to justify ourselves on the same ground, that we have already done; but as the reproaches of the French republic are founded on an idea, that our construction, and application of the law of nations, is erroneous, partial, and inimical; it may be worth while to examine, whether we cannot justify ourselves by the example of the French nation itself. I presume a better rule of justification against any charge, cannot be required, than the conduct of those who have made it, in like cases.\nI propose therefore, to compare the decisions of the American government, in the several points wherein they have been complained of in Mr. Adet\u2019s memorial, with the laws of France on the same points.\nIt is asserted that the American government has violated the 17th article of the treaty of 1778, by arresting French privateers, and their prizes; and that it has exercised shocking persecutions towards them.\nIt will be found on an accurate inquiry, that all the prizes brought in under French commissions, that have been restored, have been found to be in one, or the other, of the following descriptions:\n1. Those captured within a marine league of the shores of the United States.\n2. Where the capturing vessel was owned, and principally manned, by American citizens.\n3. Where the capturing vessel was armed in our ports.\nAs to the jurisdiction exercised by the U. States, over the sea contiguous to its shores, all nations claim and exercise such a jurisdiction, and all writers admit this claim to be well founded; and they have differed in opinion, only as to the distance to which it may extend. Let us see whether France has claimed a greater, or less extent of dominion over the sea, than the United States. Valen, the king\u2019s advocate at Rochelle, in his new commentary on the marine laws of France, published first in 1761, and again by approbation in 1776,\n   Book 5. Title 1.\n after mentioning the opinions of many different writers on public law on this subject, says \u201cAs far as the distance of two leagues the sea is the dominion of the sovereign of the neighboring coast; and that, whether there be soundings there or not.\u201d It \u201cis proper to observe this method, in favor of states whose coasts are so high, that there are no soundings close to shore; but this does not prevent the extension of the dominion of the sea, as well as in respect to jurisdiction as the fisheries to a greater distance, by particular treaties, or the rule herein before mentioned, which extends dominion as far as there are soundings, or as far as the reach of a cannon shot; which is the rule at present universally acknowledged.\u201d The effect of this dominion, the same author says, \u201cAccording to the principles of Puffendorf, which are incontestible, is, that every sovereign has a right to protect foreign commerce in his dominions, as well as to secure them from insult, by preventing others from approaching nearer to a certain distance.\u201d In extending our dominion over the sea to one league, we have not extended it so far, as the example of France, and the other powers of Europe would have justified. They therefore can have no right to complain of our conduct in this respect.\nThe second description of cases, which has induced the American government to restore prizes claimed by the French, is, where our citizens have made the capture under a French commission.\nThe third article of the ordinances of the marine of France, which the commission now given to French privateers require to be observed, (Valin, 2 Vol. 235) is as follows: \u201cWe prohibit all our subjects from taking commission from foreign kings, princes, or states, to arm vessels for war, and to cruize at sea under their colors, unless by our permission, on pain of being treated as pirates.\u201d The commentator says these general and indefinite prohibitions have no exception. They extend to commissions taken from friends or allies, as well as neutrals, and those that are equivocal: and they were considered as necessary consequences of the laws of neutrality.\n\u201cIf, says Valin, the commission of the foreign prince be to cruize against his enemies who are our allies, or those with whom we intend to preserve neutrality, it would afford just ground of complaint on their part, and might lead to a rupture.\u201d The rule extends as well to subjects domiciliated as not domiliciated in the kingdom, and foreign countries; \u201cfor Frenchmen are not the less Frenchmen, for having gone to live in foreign countries.\u201d If France may rightfully prohibit her citizins from accepting foreign commissions to make prize of the property of her friends, why should the United States be reproached for exercising a similar right? A necessary consequence of this wise and just prohibition is, that all prizes taken contrary to it should be restored with damages to the party injured.\nThe third description of prizes restored, is where they have been fitted, and armed in the ports of the United States.\nI find no direct, positive provision by the marine laws of France, prohibiting this; but the whole tenor of those laws suppose that vessels of war, are armed in the ports of the sovereign who give the commission. French privateers must not only fit out in a French port, but are bound to bring all prizes made by them into some particular port, or ports expressed in their commissions. Valin. 2 Vol. 276. And it is certain that the king of France, previous to his alliance with the United States, delivered up some American prizes, to the English, because the capturing vessel had been armed in a French port.\nMr. Adet\u2019s memorial charges that the English have been permitted to arm their vessels, and bring their prizes into our ports.\nAs to this charge, the fact is simply denied. In the cases mentioned, the vessels said to have taken in guns for their defence, were gone, before he made his representation: yet he complained, and the government did nothing. I ask what could they have done? Mr. Adet will answer, they might have declared war, against Great Britain: and it is certain, this was the only remedy that remained, in such a case: but neither our interest, nor our duty would have permitted us to have adopted it. Our interest did not permit us to give up our neutrality, and engage in a foreign war, the event of which would have produced many and certain evils, and could not by any possibility have produced any good; and it was contrary to every principle by which a just nation would desire to act, to have made war on a whole people, because one or two of them had clandestinely taken arms on board for their defence, in one of our ports, without the knowledge of their government, or of ours.\nThe memorial complains that we have infringed the 17th article of the treaty of 1778, by restraining the prohibition therein contained only to the ships of war, and privateers of their enemies, who should come into our ports, with their prizes.\nThe literal sense of the 17th article, is, that no armed ship who shall have made prizes from the French people, shall receive an asylum in our ports. The 22d article says that no privateer, fitted under a commission of the enemy of either, shall have asylum in the ports of the other. Neither of these articles say any thing of prizes. The literal application of them therefore would exclude the capturing vessels, but give admission to their prizes; which would never have been the intention of the parties. The law of nations, expressly adopted by France, relative to the right of asylum, may illustrate these articles of the treaty. Ord. Louis XIV. art. XIV. declares, \u201cThat no prizes made by Captains under a foreign commission, shall remain in our ports, longer than twenty-four hours, unless detained by bad weather, or unless the prize shall have been made from our enemies.\u201d But this article, says Valin, is only applicable to prizes carried into a neutral port, \u201cand not at all to armed vessels, whether neutrals or allies, who have taken refuge there, without prizes, either to escape the pursuit of enemies, or for any other cause. They may, in this case remain as long as they please.\u201d By the law of neutrality, simply, French prizes could only have remained twenty-four hours in our ports, but by the treaty they have obtained the priviledge of remaining as long as they please. This privilege has not only been allowed them in its fullest extent, but we had gone a step further, and as a favor permitted them to sell their prizes, which neither the treaty nor the law of nations required; and which was of more importance than all the rest put together. This favor, as favors generally are, is now claimed as a right, and the withholding is considered as an injury. Let us see what the ordinances of the French marine have said on this point. Ord. Louis XIV Tit prises. Art. XV. \u201cIf in the prizes brought into our ports by vessels armed under a foreign commission, there be any merchandizes belonging to our subjects, or allies, those belonging to our subjects shall be restored, and the rest shall not be put into any store house, or be purchased by any person under any pretext whatsoever.\u201d \u201cAnd all this, says Valin, is founded on the law of neutrality.\u201d By the treaty of Utrecht, Louis XIV, and his grandson, the king of Spain, agreed mutually, to permit the prizes made by one to be brought in and sold in the ports of the other. But this the same author says, was only a particular arrangement, so much the less to be proposed for a general rule, as the two nations had given up the duties on prize goods sold in their dominions; which however did not last long, on account of the abuses to which it gave rise. Abuses similar, I presume, to those to which the same permission gave rise in this country.\nThe next ground of complaint is the British treaty and its consequences. This treaty is said to deprive France of all the advantages stipulated in a preceding treaty; and this is done by an abandonment of the modern law of nations.\nIf we may credit the declaration of the king of France, there were no exclusive advantages stipulated for France, in that treaty. His ambassador delivered a paper to the British court, dated the 13th of March 1778, wherein after announcing the treaty between France and the United States, he says, \u201cHis majesty declares at the same time, that the contracting parties have paid great attention not to stipulate any exclusive advantages in favor of the French nation: and that the United States have reserved the liberty of treating with every other nation whatever, upon the same footing of equality and reciprocity.\u201d\nThe injury supposed to have resulted from an abandonment of the modern public law, assumes two propositions, neither of which is true: 1st. That neutral ships make neutral property: 2d. That materials for building ships, are not among the articles considered as contraband of war. By the marine laws of France, Reg. Dec. 1744, Art. 5, it is directed that \u201cIf there are found on board of neutral vessels, of whatever nation they may be, merchandizes or effects, belonging to the enemies of his majesty, they shall be good prize, even tho they are not of the growth or manufacture of the enemy\u2019s country; but the vessels shall be released.\u201d Previous to this regulation, and contrary to the law of nations, as Valin acknowledges, if either the ship or the cargo, or any part of it, was enemy\u2019s property, the whole was confiscated, by the laws of France. And at this day, neutral property on board of enemy\u2019s ships, are, by the same laws, liable to confiscation.\nAs to contraband of war, timber is enumerated among the articles that are so, by Vattel Lib. III, chap. VII, but Valin is much more particular, 2 Vol. 264. \u201cIn the treaty of commerce concluded with the king of Denmark, the 23d of August, 1742, pitch and tar were declared contraband; as also rosin, sail-cloth, hemp, cordage, masts and timber, for the building of ships. There would have been, therefore, no reason to complain of the conduct of the English, if they had not violated particular treaties; for of right (de droit) these things are contraband at present, and have been so, since the beginning of this century, which was not the case formerly.\u201d By the modern law of nations, expressly adopted by France, enemies property on board neutral ships is good prize; and by the same law, the number of contraband articles has been increased so as to include the materials for ship building. All the situations were probably foreseen, in which the treaty might operate favorably or unfavorably for France, at the time it was made. It might have been stipulated that materials for ship-building should be deemed contraband, instead of declaring that they should not; or, that the United States should not enter into any treaty in which they should be made so. Neither of these being the case, there is no ground of complaint, except that the consequence is inconvenient, at present, to France, and the belligerent powers allied to her. If timber and naval stores are contraband by the law of nations, to declare them to be so by a treaty, cannot be considered as a privilege granted to one nation, or as injury to any other. The French nation will not persist in asserting, that because the exercise of rights which she has claimed as legitimate on similar occasions, becomes inconvenient when exercised by others, she may therefore refuse to acknowledge and respect them. This would be the language of an haughty despot, in a conquered country, not of justice, honor and good faith from one friend to another.\nIt is said that the 18th article of the treaty with Great-Britain, suspends all the commercial relations between the United States and France, by preventing the supplies looked for by France from this country.\nThis article has not introduced any new case, in which provisions may be contraband; It only alters the consequence resulting from a seizure of them, when they are so. Valin (2 vol. 264) says, \u201cBy our law, and the law of nations, provisions are not prohibited, except to places besieged or blockaded.\u201d The article complained of, says explicitly, that when provisions and other articles not generally contraband, are become so, according to the existing law of nations, and shall, for that reason, be seized, they shall not be confiscated, but the owners shall be completely indemnified, and receive besides a reasonable mercantile profit. This principle operated as an encouragement for American vessels to seek the French markets, by insuring them against loss, if they happened in any instance to be interrupted in the voyage\u2014France, I presume, might consider our vessels bound with provisions to a place besieged or blockaded, liable to seizure, after due notice of the fact; if, instead of this, they contend for the privilege of paying for them according to the terms of the treaty with Great-Britain, I suppose it will not be denied to them. But, if under pretence that a vessel is bound to a besieged or blockaded port, when she is not, either France or Great Britain should seize or detain her, it is an injury not authorized by the treaty, or the law of nations. This is what both nations have done, when their interest or necessities required it\u2014sometimes with, and often without any apology\u2014and what they will often continue to do, I fear, as long as they know we cannot punish them for it.\nThese injuries are said to have been received while every object around reminds us of the tyranny of Britain and the generous Assistance of France, during the American war.\nThe generosity of France and the ingratitude of the United States have been often suggested by some of our own Citizens, and we are now reproached with it by France herself. Gratitude is due for favors received; and this virtue may exist among nations as well as among individuals: but the motive of the benefit must be solely the advantage of the party on whom it was conferred, else it ceases to be a favor. There is positive proof that France did not enter into the alliance with us in 1778 for our advantage; but for her own. The whole course of the negociation, as well as a positive knowledge of the fact, proves this. She resisted all our solicitations for effectual assistance for near three years; and rose in her demands during the campaign of 1777, when our affairs presented the most threatening aspect. Memorials were presented in August and September of that year, while General Burgoyne was advancing from Canada, in a stile of importunity, proportioned to the danger we were in from a junction of the two armies; and they were received with increased coldness from the same cause. But when the knowledge of the capture of Burgoyne\u2019s army arrived in December; fearing we might be able to do the business without them, the French Court began to change its tone. In January the British minister gave notice in the House of Commons, that he meant to propose terms of accomodation with America. The French ministry, on the arrival of this intelligence in France, immediately pressed the conclusion of the treaty which they had resisted for three years, and proposed terms much more favorable for us, than those our Commissioners had offered, and they had refused three months before. The treaty was signed on the 8th February. I perceive no generosity in all this. They did then, as we have done now, and as every discerning nation will do, they regarded only their own interest and advantage, and not that of any other nation. In the interval between the declaration of independence and the alliance, with France, that Court sometimes ordered away our privateers, and sometimes restored their prizes: They refused to receive an ambassador, or acknowledge our independence: All of which was for fear of bringing France prematurely into the war. The fact is, that the French spoke of very different terms, as the condition of their assistance, before the Capture of Burgoyne, from those actually agreed on afterwards. There can be no doubt, that our success on that occasion, and the disposition it appeared to have produced in the British ministry, were the immediate causes of that alliance. It was certainly the interest of the French to unite with America in the war against Great Britain. They therefore acted right in doing this at last, tho with too much refinement in putting it off so long; but it is not the interest of the United States to be engaged in any war whatsoever\u2014much less do they desire to imbrue their hands in the blood of one nation, to gratify the hatred, or serve the interest of another. We have acted right hitherto, in laying it down as a principle, not to suffer ourselves to be drawn into the wars of Europe, and if we must have a war, I hope it will be for refusing to depart from this principle.\nOur government has acted with firmness, consistency, and moderation, in repelling the unjust pretensions of the belligerent powers, as far as reason and argument could have weight. If it has not attempted, in every instance, to preserve our rights by force, wherein the remedy would have been worse than the disease, they have not yielded them by concession, in any instance. Into whosoever hands the administration of the government may now come, they are called on by the suggestions of a wise policy, and the voice of their country to pursue the same general line of conduct, that has been hitherto pursued, without yielding to the violence of party on either side.\nThey will then be sure of the approbation and support of the most virtuous, which it is hoped are the most numerous part, of all parties. On the contrary, if, departing from these principles, they unnecessarily involve their country in the horrors of war, they will meet the merited execration of good men, and in the end, the punishment justly due to such conduct, from an injured people.\nAmericanus.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0278", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Morris, 8 December 1796\nFrom: Morris, Robert\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nAlexander Hamilton Esqr\nPhilada Decemr 8. 1796\nDear Sir\nI intended to have sent you Bank notes. Disappointments which are in this City day by day happening have prevented, but the above draft of Joseph Higbie in favor of Garrett Cottringer for $1000 will be honored and you can have it discounted, so that I hope this Remittance will answer the Purpose and you will Credit me for the same.\nI am truly \u2003 Yrs\nRM\nJ Higbies draft 8 Decr at 30 ds on Robinson & Hartshorne $1000.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0279", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, [8 December 1796]\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia, December 8, 1796]\nDr. Sir\nI have recd. your Letter of Decr. 6th. The Warrant for the sum due to the Bank of New York was issued punctually, by some neglect or accident in the Treasurers Office, it remained undischarged. I have taken measures for the payment.\nBy a Letter from Mr. Wilkes I find that the Bank claim a payment of Interest by way of discount and the 200.000 Dollars continued on Loan on the security of a deposit of Stock. This was not understood by me, nor does it appear a reasonable condition, I will however take measures to prevent any disadvantage to the Bank from the misconception of what was their construction.\nThe Loan of 120.000 Dolls. has really operated as an advance by the Branch Bank, & has been no other relief, than as it enabled me to assist the Bank here in a critical moment. These Institutions have all been mismanaged, I look upon them with terror, they [are] at present the curse, & I fear they will prove the ruin of the Government. Immense operations depend on a triffling Capital fluctuating between the Coffers of the different Banks; At present business in this City is on the point of stagnation.\nI will thank you to inform the President of New York Bank or any other confidential person, that they may rest assured of as full & cordial assistance in any pressure of their affairs, as shall be in my power. I think however that they must principally rely on Sales of Stock, & in my opinion any sacrifice ought to be preferred to a continuance of temporary expedients. In the present state of the Treasy. anticipated payments are not practicable.\nIt is matter of importance that the proxies for electing Directors should not be placed in improper hands; some attention to this will be useful, if you find it convenient without exciting suspicions of Treasy. interference.\nThe Treasy. of N. York might have a number of Votes, which would be useful.\nPerhaps intimations from the Bank of N York had best to come through you, they will be confidential.\nThe President will lay the correspondence with France since Genets time, before Congress. A Letter is preparing by Colo. Pickering to Mr. Pinckney in answer to Adet.\nTom Payne has published a book against the President containing the most infamous calumnies: it is a systematical measure of France to destroy the publick confidence in the Friends of Govt. or \u201cWashington Faction.\u201d The question whether our Commerce is or is not to be attacked, depends intirely on the Military operations in Germany & Italy.\nIf you will part with the Reports of the British Comrs. of Accts. I shall be glad to purchase them. The 1st Volo. is with you the 2d. & 3d. are here. I shall be glad to have the book soon with a bill including Gallatins work.\nYrs. with truth\nOliv WolcottDecr. 8. 96\nA Hamilton Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0280", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Stephen Higginson, 9 December 1796\nFrom: Higginson, Stephen\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nBoston Decr 9. 1796\nDr Sir\nYour Letter of 28 of last month I received, & communicated its contents to some of our Electors. a majority of them were at first inclined to throw away their Votes from Mr Pinckney lest he should rise above Adams; but your information as to Vermont; with some observations made to them shewing the danger of so doing decided all but three, who were determined upon interested & personal motives to waste theirs. several hours were spent in discussion before they voted, the result was 16 for Adams, 13 for Pinckney, 2 for Governor Johnston & 1 for Mr Elsworth. Several of Adams\u2019s particular friends were very busy to induce those three to stand firm. They are extremely alarmed for his safety & not without reason. if the other NE: States have been united for Adams & P:, as I expect, the latter will probably get sufficient seperate Votes in the middle & southern States to bring him in; & if Jeffersons friends shall have despaired of his election before the day, they may give many Votes to Pinckney to exclude Adams, in which case he may have a large majority. what then is to be done? Mr Adams & many of his friends will be very clamorous, They will swear the union of Pinckney with him was a trick to prevent his election; & many of Us here shall never again be upon terms with him, he will never forgive our not being willing to hazard all to serve him. his disposition will not brooke the disappointed; & he may be hurried by his temper to break with every one who preferred the public to him.\nShould he fail, which I expect, some attempts should be made to conciliate & appease him, or serious inconveniences may result. It may be well for you & Govr. Jay with the president &c to contemplate the Event & arrange for it. Your Judge Smith sent Letters to some of our Electors, & I believe to Newhampshire, soliciting Votes for Burr very strongly, & rather pressing for Jefferson. Mr Holton recd. one from him, & I believe Mr. Gerry also; but Holton was so circumstanced he could make no attempts in favour of Burr, who will not have one Vote I presume in NE: We have yet no accounts from New hampshire, Rhode Island or Connecticut.\nShould Pinckney be elected care must be taken early to guard him against Adet &c, who have strong hopes, I know, of attaching him to their Views & party. This will remain with you in the middle States to effect.\nWith much respect I am Sir yours &c\nStephen Higginson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0281", "content": "Title: Federal Republican, [12 December 1796]\nFrom: \u201cFederal Republican\u201d,Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: \n[New York, December 12, 1796]\nFor the Minerva.\nTo the Citizens of New-York.\nFellow Citizens,\nElections in Republics are always of importance. The approaching one may with truth be said to be peculiarly so. No one can doubt that the steady and prosperous course of our government, hitherto is very much owing to the well deserved weight and influence of the excellent and beloved patriot, who now fills the presidential chair, and is shortly to quit it. If our best hopes are realized, as to his successor, the state of parties forbids us to expect that he will possess the universal confidence which has enabled his predecessor to stem the torrent of faction, and keep the vessel of state upright. It is then, evidently, of far greater importance than it has heretofore been, that the legislative department shall be well composed, and particularly that there shall be a majority in the House of Representatives, of a character truly American, unequivocally attached to the constitution of our country, resolved to execute the government with fairness, and to pursue under all circumstances, a course of measures, conducive to the true interest of our nation, unbiassed and unwarped by foreign influence or menace. In this great and essential object, all lesser considerations should be lost.\nTwo candidates are presented to our choice, James Watson, and Edward Livingston. Let us see who of them has the best title. Mr. Watson served his country with reputation, in the army during our war with Great Britain. Mr. Livingston was too young to take any part. Mr. Watson has been repeatedly elected in our state legislature, and has conducted himself with prudence. Mr. Livingston began his public career, as a member of Congress, at its last session, and it was marked with extreme temerity and impropriety. With a total disregard of that modesty, which is one of the best criterions of merit in a young man, and even a duty in an inexperienced young man, he set out with attempting a flagrant inroad upon the constitution of his country\u2014one which if it had not been defended by the firmness of the President and the good sense of the people, would have precipitated us into incalculable evils. Every step of this extraordinary transaction was marked with impropriety. If he was even resolved to participate in the attempt, it was arrogant and unbecoming in him to take the lead. These were plain symptoms that he had not even acted in due concert with the party, with which he had inlisted; for though they came into the measure, they pursued it on ground differently from that which he had taken. His manner of conducting the thing was in other respects exceptionable; characterised by virulent and disgusting exclamations against men who (if they had even erred as he pretended in the measure he combated) had acquired from the uniform tenor of their public and private life, a title to decent treatment at least, and by a manifest spirit of hostility to That Man who has merited and has obtained the love and veneration of all good citizens. When Mr. Livingston\u2019s immediate constituents, and with unexampled unanimity by their memorial to the House of Representatives expressed their sense to him against the course he was pursuing\u2014did he take this sense as a guide? Did he pursue the maxim which the leaders of the party have constantly in their mouth, viz. that the Representative ought to be governed by the sense of his constituents? No such thing\u2014he superciliously persisted to the last in opposing a provision for the treaty. Thus his conduct on the opening of his political career, may justly be denominated, assuming, rash, foolish, intemperate and obstinate.\nIn the comparison therefore of services, Mr. Watson has positive merit\u2014Mr. Livingston not only no positive merit but positive demerit.\nIn the comparison of other qualifications, the advantage is full on the side of Mr. Watson. If Mr. Livingston has some outside showey talents, they are more than counterbalanced by the good sense and discretion, knowlege of business and of commerce, maturity of years and experience of Mr. Watson.\nMr. Watson is also a man of republican principles, manners and habits\u2014Let all who have eyes judge for themselves how this description will apply to Mr. Livingston\u2014His democracy, if genuine, is at least more at its ease in a coach.\nIf we advert to private character, that of Mr. Watson in a religious and moral sense will stand the test. I leave that of Mr. Livingston to the observation and judgment of his fellow-citizens.\nOne point I must however more particularly touch. To prejudice Mr. Watson it is alleged that he has made his fortune by speculation. This word speculation is of very vague and indefinite meaning. Every merchant is a speculator by the nature of his calling. Is he therefore a bad man? But be all that as it may, one thing is certain\u2014that if Mr. Watson has been a speculator, Mr. Livingston has also been one, and the objection if it means any thing lies against one candidate equally with the other. Here the account is balanced.\nBut what turns the scale decidedly in favor of Mr. Watson, is his uniform attachment to the constitution and government of his country. Tho known to entertain sentiments friendly to the French revolution, without approving its excesses, he has never been disposed to sacrifice the peace and interest of the country to France\u2014nor is there any danger that he will ever consent to sacrifice the rights and honor of the country to any foreign nation, whether a kingdom or a republic. It is a further consideration in his favor that he is a man free from pecuniary embarrassment and under no temptation from this cause to betray his trust. In choosing a man for an important public station, it is no objection to him that he is not rich. But if he be deeply embarrassed with debt, and withal has habits of expense, it is a very serious objection to him. It may expose his virtue to a severe trial. The example of a certain ex-secretary is a warning to us in this particular.\nFederal Republican", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0283", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Luke Codwise, 15 December 1796\nFrom: Codwise, Luke\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nNew York, December 15, 1796. \u201cMr. J W Delaney & myself having made a settlement of our Accounts you will please discontinue the Suit commenced against him on my Account.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0284", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William Cooper, [16 December 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Cooper, William\n[New York, December 16, 1796]\nDr. Sir\nI have received your letter with a Post note of a thousand dollars on account of the Mortgage of the lands formerly Holkers in which Mr. Church is interested. The papers respecting this affair in my possession will be looked up & sent to Mr. Laurance by Mondays Post. This letter will serve you as a Receipt. Yrs. truly\nA HamiltonN Y \u2003 December 16. 1796\nWilliam Cooper Esqr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0285", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Rufus King, 16 December 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: King, Rufus\nNew York Decr. 16. 1796\nI have received, my dear Sir, your several letters of the 25 of August 10 & 11th. of Septr. You know my sentiments towards you too well to ascribe my delay in answering them to any other cause than the imperiousness of avocations with which I could not dispense.\nPublic opinion, taking the Country at large, has continued since you left us to travel on in a right direction, and, I trust, will not easily deviate from it. You will have seen before this reaches you Mr. Adet\u2019s communications. We conjecture, as to the timing of them, that they were intended to influence the election of President by the apprehension of War with France. We suppose also they are designed in the same way to give support to the partizans of France and that they have for eventual object the placing things in such a state, as will leave France at liberty to slide easily either into a renewal of cordiality or an actual or virtual war with the U States. If the war of Europe continues, the efforts of France will be likely to be levelled as a primary object against the Commerce and Credit of Great Britain and to injure these she may think is adviseable, to make war upon our Trade forgetting perhaps that the consequence may be to turn it more intirely into the channels of Great Britain. These reflections will be obvious to you. I only make them to apprize you of the view which is taken of the subject here. Thus far appearances do not indicate that the purpose of influencing this Country has been obtained. I think in the main the effect has been to impress the necessity of adhering more firmly to the Government.\nYou need not be told that every exertion, not degrading to us, will be made to preserve peace with France. Many of the opposite party, however they may be pleased with appearances of ill humour in France, will not wish it to go the length of War. And we shall endeavour to avoid it, in pursuance of our general plan of preserving peace with all the World. Yet you may depend that we shall not submit to be dictated to or to be forced into a departure from our plan of neutraily, unless to repel an attack upon us.\nOur anxiety has been extreme on the subject of the Election for President. If we may trust our information, which there is every reason to trust, it is now decided that neither Jefferson nor Burr can be President. It must be either Adams or Pinckney, the first most probably. By the throwing away of votes in New England lest Pinkney should outrun Adams, it is not unlikely that Jefferson will be Vice President. The event will not a little mortify Burr. Virginia has given him only one Vote.\nIt was to be expected of course that the Senates answer to the Presidents speech would be flattering to him. But the result in the house of representatives has been better than was expected. An address which I have not yet seen but stated by our friends to be a very good one has passed the house with only twelve dissentients consisting of the most fiery spirits. The address is not only generally complimentary to the President but includes, it is said, an explicit approbation of his administration\u2014which caused the division. Edward Livingston is in the minority.\nAfter giving you these consolatory accounts, I am now to dash the Cup a little, by telling you that Livingston is in all probability reelected in the City. The principal cause has been an unacceptable candidate on our part, James Watson. There were four Gentlemen who would certainly have succeeded but neither of them would accept. In Watson we could not unite opinions. He was more disagreeable than I had supposed to a large body of our friends\u2014and yet after the declining of the four persons alluded to we could not do otherwise than support him. For he had gotten a strong hold on most of the leading Mechanics who act with us.\nBut in the state at large we shall better our representation, and I hope for a majority in the next house of Representatives. As an omen of this, there are several new members in Congress from different states, who hitherto vote with our friends.\nThe favourable change in the conduct of Great Britain towards us strengthens the hand of the friends of Order & peace. It is much to be desired that a Treatment, in all respects unexceptionable from that quarter, should obviate all pretext to inflame the public mind.\nWe are labouring hard to establish in this country principles more and more national and free from all foreign ingredients\u2014so that we may be neither \u201cGreeks nor Trojans\u201d but truly Americans. Adieu\nAffectly Yrs.\nA Hamilton\nRufus King Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0286", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Herman LeRoy, William Bayard, and James McEvers, 16 December 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: LeRoy, Herman,Bayard, William,McEvers, James\nNew York, December 16, 1796. Discusses the Holland Land Company\u2019s interest in Robert Morris\u2019s proposed negotiations with the Seneca Indians.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0287", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Stephen Higginson, 20 December 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Higginson, Stephen\n[New York, December 20, 1796. On January 12, 1797, Higginson wrote to Hamilton: \u201cYour Letter of 20 of last month I have received.\u201d Letter not found.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0288", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, [21 December 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\n[New York, December 21, 1796]\nDr. Sir\nI did not understand by your letter of the 17th. of November whether you meant or not to authorise the immediate commencement of the sale of Stock. If you think this measure will become indispensable, it may be well to anticipate the execution; though indeed sales of Stock are at this juncture nearly impracticable. Yet I imagine it will be agreeable to the Bank to have permission to anticipate.\nA very prudent letter has lately been written by the President of the Bank of the U States to the Office of Discount here, among other things, advising a reduction of the ballance due from the Bank of NYork to 100000 Dollars. This letter, which in my opinion leaves, as it ought to do, to the Directors of the Office here discretion to execute the idea with due regard to circumstances, has however been construed by them in too peremptory a light\u2014and accordingly they have drawn from the Bank of New York pretty rapidly 150000 Dollars\u2014which begets an apprehension that subsequent calls may be equally rapid, and exciting fear and jealousy is likely to produce too sudden a retrenchment of the business of the Bank of New York, and as the Office, being confined as they suppose to discounting twice their capital cannot by increased accommodations fill the void, there is danger of stagnating & convulsing the business of the City so as to give a shock to Credit. The Direction here are sensible of the danger, but several of them take the intimation from Philadelphia in too strict a sense\u2014& cannot resolve to alleviate the apprehensions of the Bank of New York.\nThough this Bank of NY has reduced and is reducing its discounts, there are circumstances of the moment which continue to incline the ballance in favour of the Office, but it is easy to see, taking in the payments of the Government in February, that there will be a natural change and consequently it is every way imprudent to force them.\nIf the last loan of the Bank of New York to Government had no other use than that which you hint, this still was very important. And it is interesting all round that a disposition should exist to repeat similar accommodations. But you easily see how cautious & disaffected spirits are armed against it when they can say \u201cWe told you that you would embarrass yourself by your loan to Government\u201d & in truth if this had not been made the Bank of New York would now stand on high ground.\nPray interpose with Mr. Willing to obtain an explanatory letter leaving more clearly the time & manner of accomplishing the Reduction of the present Ballance to their discretion.\nI will say nothing more of any anticipated payment\u2014but if this were practicable to the extent of 50 or 100000 Dollars it would be consolatory to the Directors & leave the residue more to your convenience.\nDont derive from this letter any source of alarm. Every thing is sound with both Banks here. I know the state of both. But there is danger that fear and jealousy in the Directors of the Bank of New York may produce evil which it is unnecessary to hazard.\nI shall send you the first opportunity the volume of Reports of Comrs.\nYrs. truly\nA Hamilton\nPS Mr Caleb Brewster is a candidate for the Office of first Mate in the Revenue Cutter here. I remember he rendered very meritorious services in the War & I am told has been bred a seamen. In these respects he has a good claim. His character otherwise is not known to me. But if it affords no objection I think he will be an eligible man.\nIt is said Walker is to resign. In this case Jonathan Burrall wishes to succeed. There cannot you know be a more fit man & he will be intirely acceptable here.\nOl Wolcot Junr Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0289", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, [23 December 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\n[New York, December 23, 1796]\nMy Dear Sir\nI wrote to you two days ago on the subject of obtaining an instruction from the Bank of the U States to the Direction of the Office here to prevent a speedy repetition of their call on the Bank of New York. This Bank has so large a proportion of its whole Capital in the power of the Office that if it be not tranquillized on the subject of demands from that quarter, it will be driven to such violent operations as cannot fail to convulse Credit & among other evils prevent the collection of the Revenues. The danger is urgent & a prompt explanation is essential.\nThe situation of the Bank of NYork is no doubt materially owing to the prolongation of the old & the new loan to Government. Its Capital is 900,000 Dollars\u2014its discount 1600000. Here is certainly no imprudence.\nMany of the Merchants here are anxious for an accommodation for the duties similar to that which I upon certain trying occasions made. I know not what is possible on your part.\nYrs. truly\nA Hamilton\nO Wolcot Jun. Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0290", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 28 December 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nNew York December 28. 1796\nDear Sir\nI received yesterday your\u2019s by Post, which I communicated immediately to the Directors of both Banks, that is, so much as concerned each party. It has been very consolatory to the Bank of New York & will do good. All will be well.\nMr. Alexander McComb applied, while I was in Office, respecting some land he & Edgar had purchased of the Public and on which they had made a partial payment which by the terms of sale was forfieted. I remember my opinion was under all the circumstances that it was proper for the government to give relief, either by a grant of a quantity of land equitably equivalent to the payment or by restitution of the Circumstances. I will thank you, as far your leisure will permit and your judgment correspond, to pay attention to the subject.\nYrs. truly\nA Hamilton\nOliver Wolcott Jun Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0292", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to \u2014\u2014\u2014, [1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: \nDear Sir:\nPoor Duer has now had a long & severe confinement\u2014Such as would be adequate for no trifling crime. I am well aware of all the blame to which he is liable and do not mean to be his apologist\u2014though I believe he has been as much the dupe of his own imagination as others have been the victims of his projects. But what then? He is a man\u2014he is a man with whom we have both been in habits of friendly intimacy\u2014he is a man, who with a great deal of good zeal has in critical times rendered valuable services to the Country. He is a husband, who has a most worthy & amiable wife perishing with chagrin at his situation\u2014Your relation by blood\u2014mine by marriage. He is a father who has a number of fine children destitute of the means of education & support every way in need of his future exertions.\nThese are titles to sympathy, which I shall be mistaken if you do not feel. You are his creditor. Your example may influence others. He wants permission, through a letter of license to breathe the air for five years. Your signature to the enclosed draft of One will give me much pleasure.\nYrs.\nAH", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-20-02-0294", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Ann Mitchell, [1796]\nFrom: Mitchell, Ann\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\nMy Father\u2014James Lytton Senr. deceased\u2014Planter of the Island of St Croix in the year 1769\u2014In his Will confirmed by his Majesty\u2014he bequeathed \u00b9\u2044\u2087 of his Estate to my Brother James Lytton Junr.\u2014\u00b2/\u2087ths to his Children to be divided when the youngest was of age\u2014\u00b2/\u2087th to my deceased Sisters Son John Hallwood\u2014and in consequence of my being married to a man unfortunate in his conduct\u2014he nominated my daughter Anne Lytton Venton as Heir to the remaining \u00b2/\u2087ths\u2014The interest only to be paid to me for our joint support during the life of her Father John Venton. But expressly ordering and willing the said \u00b2/\u2087ths to be paid to me upon his decease. In order to prevent my Husband from taking measures to compel me to aid him in his indeavours to disannul my fathers Will\u2014Major John Coakley and Thomas Lillie Esqr Executors\u2014and my brother\u2014went with me to General Clawsen and obtained permission for me to come to America with my daughter when the said Thomas Lillie having the direction of my Fathers property remited to me such a part of the interest of the \u00b2/\u2087ths as was sufficient for our support. In 1775 and 1776 my husband and Thomas Lillie both died. My brother then with out informing me\u2014or the aforesaid Legatee John Hallwood gave up my Fathers Estate and concerns to the Dealing Court. Dealing Master James Lowin immediately sold at publick sale a Sugar Plantation\u2014the principal part of the Estate. My Brother became the purchaser at 65 000 Rld. I received letters from him informing me of it and that he would pay me 6 \u214c Ct on the \u00b2/\u2087th of the purchase till the payments were due according to the conditions of the sale and 8 pr Ct from then till paid. This he failed to do. In 1778 and 1779 my brother and a Mr Thomas Tucker who was appointed my Curator by Government, very urgently requested my return to St Croix to attend the close of the Dealing. Upon my arrival there with my daughter I was informed by Dealingmaster Towers my Brother and all parties concerned\u2014that as in their opinion the expression of my Fathers Will was somewhat ambiguous they had had a meeting for the purpose of taking it in to consideration\u2014and that they had agreed my right to demand and receive the \u00b2/\u2087ths was good\u2014it appearing to be my Fathers intention by ordering it to be paid to me to preserve it for me and not from me. The close of the Dealing was protracted. I could not by the most earnest entreaty procure even as much of the interest as would supply my daughter and self with the common necessaries of Life\u2014and had it not been for the humane and friendly assistance of the Revd Doctr Hugh Knox I could not have supported the distress I found my self involved in. My Brother now sold the Estate to a Mr John James taking in part payment St James Island at the value of 5000 Rld\u2014which with the interest of the 65 000 unpaid while he held the Plantation and the difference of (to the best of my knowledge 5000 Rld in the sale mentioned by taking off some Slaves and what he had before received\u2014amounted to more than his own \u00b9/\u2087th. John James Purchaser\u2014then came forward as a Curator to a Don Valesco a Mullato boy said to be a Son of my Brother Peter Lytton insane and deceased before my Father he produced a bit of paper said to be found in his house\u2014bequeathing to said Mullato 11 000 Rld requiring a reservation to be made of that sum in the Estate for said boy. In the same year 1780 a Robert Halliday\u2014a man with out property or Credit made a claim and commenced a suit against my Fathers estate for the sum of 28000 Rld. Dealing Master Towers made these claims a fresh pretext for not closing the Dealing and in his Regulation of it made a reservation of 36 000 Rld for them till decided.\nMy Brother\u2014with David Beekman Esqr Guardian to my Brothers Children and Dealingmaster Towers now declared themselves dissatisfied with their former award respecting the intention of my Fathers Will and again convened to reconsider it. They now determined that the Portion ordered to be paid to me at the death of John Venton my Husband should not be paid to me so long as my Daughter lived\u2014nor to her so long as I lived. Neither has the interest of it been regularly paid to me\u2014nor could I ever yet learn from them what they allowed my daughter and self a claim to\u2014my Brothers \u00b9\u2044\u2087th being paid the three remaining shares are equal. In 1781 my Nephew John Hallwood Legatee died. He made a Will bequeathing to me \u00bc of what remained unpaid of his share but no part to my Brother or his Children. It was left in the hands of the Rev. Doctr. Knox Executor. In 1780 I married a Mr George Mitchel\u2014Burger who had come to St Croix to attend the process of his Brothers Robert Mitchells Dealing\u2014to which Dealingmaster Towers was indebted 10 000 Rix Dollars by a judgment from Copenhagen. In the course of his attendance and different contests he was obliged to contract some debts\u2014his Creditors became urgent with him concluding that if he withdrew himself his Creditors could and would by their united power compel Dealingmaster Towers to bring forward and close our Dealings\u2014which he found he could not\u2014we came to America\u2014but he has been unfortunately disappointed. In 1791 my husband George Mitchel sent me with my daughter to St Croix with a full power of Attorney. On our arrival we found Hollidays suit and Valesco\u2019s claim appeared no nearer a decision than when we left that place. We found that the Dealing Master Towers had not even obliged John James to pay the interest of the sum for which he purchased the Plantation\u2014that he had to the injury of the Heirs died insolvent\u2014that the said Plantation had been Sold again but no payments made\u2014and that no progress was made in the Dealings of my Father James Lytton Senr or Robert Mitchell. I entreated my Brother and David Beekman guardian to his Children, to join me in a petition to Government they would not. I then in my own name only presented a petition to his excellency General Walterstorff praing him to order the suit of Robert Holliday to be decided. The suit was ordered to be decided and the decision was in favor of my Fathers Estate. Robert Holliday was fined 3 mark danish and to pay all charges. Tho a man destitute of reputation or property he was by some means enabled to appeal to the upper court where his suit Still rests. With difficulty I prevailed with my Brother and David Beekman to attend the then Dealingmaster Mr Prom with me. He read my Fathers Will to them\u2014he expressed with indignation his astonishment at the cruel treatment I had received and said\u2014if there was any meaning in words\u2014it was clear to him I ought to have received \u00b2/\u2087ths of what my Father died possessed of\u2014at the death of my former Husband. To this my Brother objected, that it was contrary to Mr. Tower\u2019s regulation of the Dealing\u2014and as one of the members of the Dg court was absent\u2014they protested against the proceedings of the day\u2014and would never after attend with me\u2014or join me in any measure for bringing the Dealing to a final settlement and close. Dealing Master Prom then told me he saw I should never recover my right\u2014but by a petition to his Majesty\u2014and that he was satisfied that would prove effectual. In despair of obtaining redress by any other means I made a formal demand of my right in the D. Ct.\u2014and returned in 1792 with my daughter to America where we have suffered and still suffer every hardship incident to poverty\u2014without hope of redress but from the Justice and clemency of\u2014", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-24-02-0031-0002", "content": "Title: Enclosure: James McHenry to Anthony Wayne, 27 August 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Wayne, Anthony\nWar Office, August 27. 1796.\nSir,\nI here transmit the arrangement of the legion and Cavalry which you will please to have promulged and carried into execution.\nYou will perceive by adverting to the table of Regiments and Rank that the President has been guided by the rule of Seniority and that the Officers with a few exceptions remain attached to the Men which they have been accustomed to command. For example the First Sub Legion becomes the First Regiment, the Second Sub Legion, the second Regiment, the third Sub Legion, the third Regiment, and the Fourth Sub Legion, the fourth Regiment. The Senior Lieutenant Colonel will command the first Regiment; the second Lieutenant Colonel in Rank the second Regiment; the third Lieutenant Colonel the third Regiment and the fourth Lieutenant\nColonel the fourth Regiment. In like manner the first and fifth Majors in rank are assigned to the first Regiment, the second and sixth to the second Regiment, the third and seventh to the third Regiment, the fourth and eighth to the fourth Regiment.\nI am Sir &c\nJames McHenry.\nMajor General Anthony Wayne.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-26-02-0002-0446", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Tench Coxe, [27 February 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Coxe, Tench\n[Philadelphia, February 27, 1796]\nMr. Hamilton\u2019s Compliments to Mr Coxe. An engagement which Mr. H did not recollect will not permit him to breakfast with Mr. Coxe this morning. But he will call immediately after he is released at Mr Coxe\u2019s House & afterwards at his Office.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-26-02-0002-0447", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Tench Coxe, [16 May 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Coxe, Tench\n[New York, May 16, 1796]\nSir\nI am anxious to be informed how our affair now stands with Messrs. Wheelen & Co. & that it be brought to an issue. How stands also the question depending before the board of the land Office?\nYr. Obed ser\nA Hamilton\nTench Coxe Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-26-02-0002-0448", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Tench Coxe, 17 May 1796\nFrom: Coxe, Tench\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia] May 17th 1796\nSir\nI mentioned to you that the Board of Property had decided in favor of Ball & Smiths Warrants, but I presume it has escaped your Memory. After this six months are given by our laws for an appeal to the courts of Law. I hoped that this would elaps\u2014but about the last day the process was served. I have apprized my council, in the former stage, of the present situation of the matter & due care will be taken to procure all the proper means of a favorable decision.\nSometime since I applied to Mr. Wheelen, and finding a prospect of raising the Money as soon as the other part of the concern would expect the difference between my share of the present balance & the value of the full third, I offered [to] repurchase one third at the first cost & to take that undivided interest or to draw at once one third out of Patterson\u2019s, Church\u2019s & Coxe\u2019s lands. Mr. Wheelen expressed his willingness, but sd. Mr. G. Wescott had hesitated, & was then out of Town. That having made the offer to you he would consider himself bound to persuade Mr. W. to it, & I should hear on his return. Mr. Wescott has been back about a week or ten days but I have not yet heard from them.\nMr. Anthony informs me that he has advised you of his having recd. from me the Deed of Robert Wescott for the eleven tracts of land taken back for Mr. Church by you, & the patents for them, which I sent him about the day of your lat[e] departure from Philadelphia agreeably to your desire.\nMr. Burd of our supreme Court told me on Sunday that Mr. R. Morris had made provision for the Judgments against him so far as his own real & separate share of them. This it may be useful to Mr. Church\u2019s affairs that you should hear.\nI am, sir, &ca. &ca.\nAlexr. Hamilton Esqr. (N. Yk.)", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-26-02-0002-0451", "content": "Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Tench Coxe, 13 June 1796\nFrom: Coxe, Tench\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n[Philadelphia] June 13th 1796\nSir\nMr. Whelen informed me that he would call upon me soon to fix some preliminaries about the arbitration. I soon expect him but have not yet seen him on the subject.\nI have not heard of any improvement condition in regard to the lands of Aliens in Pennsylvania, and am satisfied there can be none to effect Mr. Church\u2019s purchases with me. It would be an expostfact to provision\u2014in equitable & void. Certain Lands over Allegany were granted with condition of settlement, which was illy expressed, & much neglected & attempted to be avoided by devices supposed to be legally feasible. I never thought safe or right, and therefore never meddled with them. I think this must be what you have heard of. They only regard that small part of the State which lies N. of Ohio & W. of Allegany river, and, I believe, not all that\u2014also some part or all of triangel at Presque-isle.\nI am &ca. &ca.\nCol. A Hamilton New York", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-26-02-0002-0453", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Tench Coxe, [10 November 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Coxe, Tench\n[New York, November 10, 1796]\nSir\nI beg the favour of you to let me know what if any thing has been settled with Messrs. Wheelen & Miller or whereabouts that affair is. I expect with certain[ty] Mr. Church early in the spring, and should be grieved to have to inform him of an unsettled state of this business.\nI am \u2003 Sir \u2003 Yr. very hum. servant\nA Hamilton\nTench Coxe Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Hamilton/01-27-02-0001-0009", "content": "Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jeremiah Wadsworth, [6 November 1796]\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Wadsworth, Jeremiah\nDr. Wadsworth.\n[New York, November 6, 1796]\nI perceive you are an elector. In this state we support unanimously John Adams and Thomas Pinckney; on the principle of taking a double chance against Jefferson, deeming it far more important that be shall not be the President than who of the two men, Adams and Pinckney, shall be the President. The Government and the national interests will be perfectly safe in the hands of either of these characters. In those of Jefferson there is every thing to fear. Surely then our policy is the true one. \u2018Tis not a man but a cause we are to support.\nPensylvania in all appearances will go intirely wrong. The issue is consequently very precarious and every chance ought to be taken.\nYrs. Affecty\nA Hamilton\nNovember 6. 1796\nJeremiah Wadsworth Esq", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/01-06-02-0005-0001-0001", "content": "Title: [Diary entry: 1 January 1796]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: \n1. Remarkably mild and pleasant\u2014perfectly clear. Received the National Colours from Mr. Adet the Minister Plenipo. to day. Much company visited.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/01-06-02-0005-0001", "content": "Title: [January 1796]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: \n1. Remarkably mild and pleasant\u2014perfectly clear.\nReceived the National Colours from Mr. Adet the Minister Plenipo. to day.\nMuch company visited.\n   Pierre Auguste Adet, French minister plenipotentiary, had arrived in the United States on 13 June 1795 to replace Fauchet. He brought with him a French flag, a gift of the French Committee of Public Safety, and an accompanying speech of warm friendship for the United States. His awareness of the anti-French bias in the American government, however, caused him to delay presenting the flag. In Dec. 1795 he finally notified GW that he desired to make the presentation, and GW chose New Year\u2019s Day for the ceremony. GW answered the French address in a friendly manner, but he included the statement that the French flag would be placed in the archives. Adet took violent exception to this. An American flag presented earlier by James Monroe to the French National Convention was on prominent display in the French chamber, and Adet had expected the French flag to be accorded a conspicuous place in the halls of Congress. The Federalists, however, felt that Adet\u2019s presentation was a flagrant attempt to sway American feeling during the discussion of the Jay Treaty (deconde, 424, 435\u201336).\n2. Equally fine with yesterday. Saw the Stem of the Frigate raised.\n   On 27 Mar. 1794 Congress passed \u201cAn Act to provide a Naval Armament,\u201d providing for the construction of six frigates, to be built in various shipyards around the country. This measure was designed to protect American shipping from marauding Algerines (1 STAT.Richard Peters, ed. The Public Statutes at Large of the United States of America, from the Organization of the Government in 1789, to March 3, 1845 . . .. 8 vols. Boston, 1845-67. 350\u201351 [27 Mar. 1794]). The frigate mentioned here was being built at Southwark, near Philadelphia. It was the United States, 44 guns, and was to be commanded by Commodore John Barry. After the treaty with the Dey of Algiers in 1795, three of the frigates, including the United States, were ordered to be completed immediately, and work on the other three was to be put off for an indefinite period (ASP, Naval Affairs,Walter Lowrie et al., eds. American State Papers. Documents, Legislative and Executive, of the Congress of the United States. 38 vols. Washington, D.C., Gales and Seaton, 1832\u201361. 1:6, 18, 25). The visit to the shipyard with GW that George Washington Parke Custis later recalled was probably this one: \u201cI well remember visiting with Washington the United States Frigate at Southwark, when her Keel was laid, & stem & starnpost only up. The Chief expressed his admiration at the great size of the Vessell that was to be. Commodore Barry was present, & Mr. [Joshua] Humphreys [naval constructor] explained to the President, several of his cabinet, and other persons who were present, the great principle which he had originated & was now by consent of the authorities putting into successful practice, all of which met with Washington\u2019s\napprobation, & he expressed himself on the return in his coach, much gratified with all he had seen & heard in this, his First visit to an American Navy Yard\u201d (HUMPHREYSHenry H. Humphreys. \u201cWho Built the First United States Navy?\u201d Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography 40 (1916): 385\u2013411., 391).\n3. Rain in the night\u2014foggy till Noon\u2014then clear. Wind S.W.\n4. Remarkably mild\u2014clear & pleasant. Wind So. Wt.\n5. Very white frost\u2014Southerly Wind & lowering sun.\n6. Rain in the Night and violent Storm\u2014variable wind & a little Snow.\n7. Clear forenoon\u2014lowering afternoon. Wind No. Wt.\n8. Clear but cool. Wind at N.W.\n9. Clear & cold. Wind at Do. lowering towards night.\n10. Lowering all the forenoon\u2014about 2 oclock begun to Snow. Wind at So. Wt.\n11. Snowing very moderately till Noon with the Wind at No. Et. Then Rain\u2014wch. carrd. all off.\n12. Clear with the Wind at West and moderate.\n13. Clear in the forenoon, lowering afterwards. Wind at No. Et.\n14. Raining all day moderately & Steadily. Wind at No. Et. but warm.\n15. Cloudy most part of the day. Wind Westerly.\n16. Similar to yesterday in all respects.\n17. Snowing more or less all day with the wind at No. Et.\n18. Cloudy, & now and then Snowing. Wind Westerly.\n19. Clear in the forenoon, cloudy afterwards with great appearances of Snow.\n20. Some Snow fell in the night and at intervals & with a mixture of rain through the day. Wind Easterly.\n21. Clear with the Wind Westerly.\n22d. Clear\u2014wind westerly. Mercury in the morning at 16 degrees.\n23. Perfectly calm, clear and pleastant. Mercury 18 in the morning.\n24. Clear in the forenoon\u2014a little lowering afterwards. Wind at So. West. Mercury at 30 & falling.\n25. Lowering all day with appearances of Rain. W[in]d No. Et.\n26. Thick weather, but mild & thawing. Wind at So. Wt.\n27. Rain fell in the night. Fine Snow all the forenoon. Wind Easterly.\n28. Light Snow in the morning. Clear afterwards & mild. Wind So. Wt.\n29. Clear & turned much colder. Mercury at 18. Wind at No. Wt.\n30. Quite clear\u2014mercury at 8 degrees. Wd. at No. Wt. but not strong.\n31. Very cold. Mercury at 4 degrees\u2014very clear with little wind but a piercing Air.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/01-06-02-0005-0002-0010", "content": "Title: [Diary entry: 10 February 1796]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: \n10. About 7 Oclock it began to Snow and kept steadily at it until 11, then changd. to rain & contd. all the day afterwards. Wind Easterly.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/01-06-02-0005-0003-0028", "content": "Title: [Diary entry: 28 March 1796]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: \n28. Thick, foggy morning with moderate rain about Noon, with the Wind at East. About 3 Oclock it cleared & was pleast. but afterwds. grew cloudy & cold.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/01-06-02-0005-0003", "content": "Title: [March 1796]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: \n1. Thick heavy morning with the Wind at North. The afternoon not much better.\n2. Same kind of day, & Wind as yesterday\u2014with spitting of Snow.\n3. A little Snow fell in the Night\u2014heavy and thick all day. Wind abt. North.\n4. Again a little Snow fell in the Night\u2014but not eno\u2019 to cover the ground.\n5. Heavy morning with clouds all day. Wind at North, a little Easterly.\n6. Thick morning but very pleasant afternoon with but little wind.\n7. Cloudy morning but clear afternoon. Wind West\u2014shifting more Northerly & Easterly, & clouding towards Night.\n8. Snow 4 Inches deep fell in the Night & continued Spitting until 10 or 11 Oclock\u2014then cleared & grew cold. Wind at No. Wt.\n9. Cold & clear. Wind No. Wt. & Westerly.\n10. Cold & cloudy in the forenn. but clear & mild afterwds. Wind getting to the So. Wt.\n11. Clear & pleasant all day. Wind getting more Westerly.\n12. Clear and warmer than yesterday\u2014Wind more South.\n13. Forenoon clear & still. Afternoon very windy from the So. West.\n14. Lowering \u27e8 \u27e9 likely to rain with the Wind in the same place. Cloudy more or less all day.\n15. Tuesday clear and warm. Wind still Southerly and pretty brisk.\n16. A good deal of Rain fell last night and this morning. About 7 P.M. it cleared & blew violent from abt. No. Wt. all day & Night.\n17. Clear with the Wind from the same point.\n18. Dull & heavy forenoon with light falls of Snow from the No. Et. Clear afternoon.\n19. Clear & cold all day with the Wind fresh from No. W.\n20. Clear morning. Wind Westerly\u2014pleasant all day.\n21. Morning lowering\u2014but clear afterwards. Wind So. Et. growing warm.\n22. Heavy morning but clear afterwards and warm. Wind still at So. Et.\n23. Clear and warm Wind fresh from So. Wt.\n24. Cloudy morning & cooler. Wind at No. Wt. and clear afternoon.\n25. Wind in the Same place. Clear & cool all day.\n26. Wind Easterly\u2014but clear & very pleasant notwithstanding.\n   pleasant: MS reads \u201cpleasand.\u201d\n27th. Clear all day. The Wind at East & pleasant tho\u2019 a little cool.\n28. Thick, foggy morning with moderate rain about Noon, with the Wind at East. About 3 Oclock it cleared & was pleast. but afterwds. grew cloudy & cold.\n29. Very pleasant all day with the Wind westerly but variable.\n30. Clear in the forenoon with the wind mostly at west\u2014cloudy afternoon.\n31. Clear and warm but little Wind & that Easterly.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/01-06-02-0005-0004-0027", "content": "Title: [Diary entry: 27 April 1796]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: \n27. Wind at No. Et. About 8 Oclock in the morning it began a fine Rain and continued till Noon. Towds. Night there was a very fine rain for an hour or two.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/01-06-02-0005-0005-0006", "content": "Title: [Diary entry: 6 May 1796]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: \n6. About 6 oclock it began a moderate rain, with the wind from East and continued raining moderately but steadily until 7 oclock in the evening.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/01-06-02-0005-0006", "content": "Title: [June 1796]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: \n1. Clear, with the Wind varying, but chiefly Westwardly.\n2. Clear all day with the wind at So. West & Warm.\n3. Clear & warm with but little wind and that Southerly.\n4. Warm with but very little Wind. In the afternoon there was appearances of Rain but none fell.\n5. Clear morning & showery afternoon\u2014with variable wind from So. W. to N. Et.\n6. Raining a little in the forenoon\u2014clear afterwards. Wind Easterly.\n7. Wind Easterly\u2014very heavy morning and raining more or less all day with the Wind at East.\n8. Heavy morning with the Wind at East, variable afterwards & Wind South.\n9. Tolerably clear all day with the wind at So. & Warm but rain in the Night.\n10. Wind at East in the Morning with Rain. In the Evening and Night a great deal fell.\n11. Wind at East with a little Rain. Very warm.\n12. Cloudy all day with great appearances of Rain. Wind Easterly in the Morning and Westerly afterwards.\n13. Cloudy for the most part of the day\u2014but no Rain.\n   GW left Philadelphia for Mount Vernon on 13 June and remained there until 17 Aug.\n14. Clear Morning\u2014but Rainy afternoon. Wind vary[ing].\n15. Cloudy but no Rain and tolerably cool.\n16. Thick heavy Morning & heavy Showers of Rain in the afternoon.\n17. Clear all day and very warm\u2014especially in the afternoon.\n18. Clear & very warm all day with sprinkling Rain in the Afternoon.\n19. Very warm with very little wind.\n20. Slight rain in the Morning but fair before and after noon.\n21. Clear and warm all day and but little wind.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0249", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Pierre-Auguste Adet, 1 January 1796\nFrom: Adet, Pierre-Auguste\nTo: Washington, George\n            Mr President\n          I come to acquit myself of a duty very dear to my heart, I come to deposit in your hands and in the midst of a people justly\nrenowned for their courage and their love of liberty, the symbol of the triumphs and of the enfranchisement of my nation.\n          When she broke her chains, when she proclaimed the imprescriptible rights of man, when in a terrible war she sealed with her blood the covenant she had made with liberty, her own happiness was not alone the object of her glorious efforts; her views extended also to all free people. She saw their interests blended with her own, and doubly rejoiced in her victories, which in assuring to her the enjoyment of her Rights, became to them new guarantees of their independence.\n          These sentiments which animated the French nation from the dawn of their Revolution, have acquired new strength since the foundation of the Republic. France, at that time, by the form of its Government, assimilated to, or rather identified with, free people, saw in them only friends and brothers. Long accustomed to regard the american people as her most faithful allies, she has saught to draw closer the ties already formed in the fields of America under the auspices of victory, over the ruins of tyranny.\n          The National Convention, the organ of the will of the French nation, have more than once expressed their sentiments to the American people; but above all these burst forth on that August day when the minister of the United States presented to the National Representation, the Colours of his Country. Desiring never to lose recollections as dear to Frenchmen as they must be to Americans, the Convention ordered that these colours should be placed in the Hall of their sittings. They had experienced sensations too agreeable not to cause them to be partaken of by their allies, and decreed that to them the national colours should be presented.\n          Mr President\n          I do not doubt their expectation will be fulfilled; and I am convinced that every citizen will receive, with a pleasing emotion, this flag, elsewhere the terror of the enemies of liberty, here the certain pledge of faithful friendship; especially when they recollect that it guides to combat men who have shared their toils, and who were prepared for liberty by aiding them to acquire their own.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0250", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Pierre-Auguste Adet, 1 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Adet, Pierre-Auguste\n            United States January 1st 1796\n          Born, sir, in a land of liberty; having early learned its value; having engaged in a perilous conflict to defend it; having, in a word, devoted the best years of my life to secure its permanent establishment in my own country; my anxious recollections, my sympathetic feelings, and my best wishes are irresistably excited, whensoever in any country I see an oppressed nation unfurl the banners of freedom. But above all, the events of the French Revolution have produced the deepest solicitude, as well as the highest admiration. To call your nation brave, were to pronounce but common praise. Wonderful people! Ages to come will read with astonishment the history of your brilliant exploits! I rejoice that the period of your toils and of your immense sacrifices, is approaching. I rejoice that the interesting revolutionary movements of so many years have issued in the formation of a constitution designed to give permanency to the great object for which you have contended. I rejoice that liberty, which you have so long embraced with enthusiasm, liberty, of which you have been the invincible defenders, now finds an asylum in the bosom of a regularly organised government; a government, which, being formed to secure the happiness of the French People, corresponds with the ardent wishes of my heart, while it gratifies the pride of every citizen of the United States by its resemblance to their own. On these glorious events accept, sir, my sincere congratulations.\n          In delivering to you these sentiments, I express not my own feelings only, but those of my fellow citizens, in relation to the commencement; the progress, and the issue of the French Revolution: and they will cordially join with me in purest wishes to the Supreme Being, that the citizens of our sister republic, our magnanimous allies, may soon enjoy in peace, that liberty, which they have purchased at so great a price, and all the happiness which liberty can bestow.\n          I receive, sir, with lively sensibility, the symbol of the triumphs and of the enfranchisement of your nation, the colours of France, which you have now presented to the United States. The transaction will be announced to congress; and the colours will be deposited with those archives of the United States, which are at once the evidences and the memorials of their freedom and independence. May these be perpetual! and may the friendship of the two republics be commensurate with their existence.\n            Go. Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0251", "content": "Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 1 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Jay, John\n            Philadelphia Jany 1st 1796\n          The enclosed, under cover from Sir John Sinclair, came to my hands a few days since.\n          I sincerely wish, as well for the zealous supporter, as for the cause itself, that some measure could be devised to facilitate Sir John\u2019s views. Can you suggest any? Aid me if you can, for I am at a loss what to say in answer to his present plan; and the Extracts relative to Mr Elkington\u2019s discoveries in the art of draining; which; I presume, were forwarded to you at the time I received them, in a letter from Sir John, bearing date the 18th of July last.\n          Permit me to offer you, Mrs Jay & the family, the compliments of the season; and the return of many of them; each proving\nmore happy than the former. With affecte regard I am\u2014always \u2014Your Obedient\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0253", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., 2 January 1796\nFrom: Dandridge, Bartholomew Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n          Painful as it is to me (& I assure you it is truly so) to trouble you with anything which relates to myself, knowing as I do that your time is now scarcely adequate to the discharge of the duties & avocations which are attached to your station; yet I conceive myself so forcibly impelled by several reasons (for which I beg to refer you to my letter on this subject in July last, and to which there are others which I might add) to change my situation in life, that I am brought to the necessity of submitting to you my desire & intention of giving up an employment which I can no longer execute in a manner which I myself can approve, as soon as you can be provided with some person to take charge of that part of your business which is in my hands at present. This, I presume, may be accomplished in the course of two or three months\u2014or at any rate by the termination of the present session of Congress: though the sooner it happens with convenience to yourself the better would it accord with my views. In coming to this resolution My Dr Sir, I hope you will do me the justice to believe that nothing which relates to you personally has had the smallest weight in causing its adoption. I feel most sensibly all the indulgance which you have shewn me since my residence in your family, and the consideration of your goodness never fails to excite in my breast the most lively gratitude.\n          I will now, Sir, intrude so far as to state you my future prospects, and to beg your advice and assistance towards their attainment in such degrees as you shall think proper to afford them.\n          The ultimatum of my wishes & exertions is to obtain if possible a small farm in the upper Country and in a healthy part of Virginia. The neighbourhood of Staunton strikes me as of this description, and to this Country my inclination has always leaned. In order to enable me to obtain this end of my wishes I\npropose (if I can accomplish it) to make an establishment in the mercantile line at Staunton\u2014or at a small (but thriving as I am told) town called Lexington about 35 miles above Staunton, on the head waters of James river. The navigation is now passable from the latter place to Richmond, and will no doubt in a short time be rendered perfectly good. An early establishment of this sort at Lexington would, I think, command much of the produce of that rich Country, & become an increasing & profitable trade. There, Sir, are my objects in the attainment of which I beg your patronage.\n          Nothing but a strong desire to make in some small degree a return from your kindness to me, induced me to prolong my residence in this City after making known to you my wish to leave it last summer. It is my firm belief that my remaining here will not enable me to do this; but on the contrary will impede it. You were so good, Sir, as to mention (if I mistake not) your intention of conferring on me some public office which I might be thought capable of filling, when you left your present station. This particular instance of your kindness demands & receives my sincere acknowledgments: but I declare to you, Sir, that there is not one office (even supposing me ever so capable of filling it) in the gift of the Government which I would accept upon the condition of residing longer in this City.\n          I have adopted a letter as the most respectful and explicit mode of placing this matter before you, and if there is any impropriety contained in it, I trust you will be assured it is not intentional. In any event I am my dear Sir, with true respect & affectionate attachment, Your obliged servt\n            Bw Dandridge", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0254", "content": "Title: Pardon for Joseph Hood, 2 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: \n          To all persons to whom these presents shall come\u2014Greeting.\n          whereas, Joseph Hood late of the Massachusetts district mariner, at a Circuit Court of the United States, lately holden in and for the said Massachusetts district was lately convicted of the\ncrime of Manslaughter committed on the high seas and within the jurisdiction of the same Court and by the Judgment the said Joseph Hood was sentenced and adjudged to suffer eighteen months imprisonment, to pay to the use of the United States the sum of five hundred dollars and to stand committed until the said Judgement of the Court was complied with, and whereas the said Joseph Hood hath by his petition to me set forth that he has already sustained an imprisonment of many months before his trial and hath an aged mother to maintain, and the character and conduct of the said Joseph Hood is certified to be otherwise fair and honest, and the said Joseph Hood by his said petition hath besought a remission of so much of the said Judgment of the Court as subjects him to further imprisonment. Therefore I George Washington President of the United States, in consideration of the premises herein before set forth have thought proper and by these presents do grant unto the said Joseph Hood a full, free and entire pardon of the said offence whereof he so stands convicted so far as the same relates to the further term of imprisonment part of the Judgment of the said Court and not otherwise hereby willing and requiring that when and as soon as the said Joseph Hood shall have satisfied the Judgment of the said Court as far as the same relates to the fine and costs of prosecution on him imposed to be forthwith discharged from Custody.\n          In Testimony whereof, I have caused the Seall of the United States of America to be affixed to these presents, and signed the same with my hand. Done at the City of Philadelphia the second day of January, 1796 and of the Independence of the United States of America the twentieth.\n            Go. Washington,By the President, Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0256", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Rowley, 2 January 1796\nFrom: Rowley, William\nTo: Washington, George\n            Saville row St James [London] January 2. 1796\n          I have the honor to acknowledge Your Excellency\u2019s letter of polite thanks for the writings I transmitted. Your Excellency directed the letter to Oxford, of which university, I am a member, but it is long since, I resided there. I hope the doctrines, I have endeavored to promulgate will prove beneficial to society, expecially in the prevention or curing those infectious putrid diseases, that have made such havock amongst the human species, in some measure, owing to medical prejudices, which are nearly as difficult to remove as mountains. I beg leave to subscribe myself, with the greatest esteem for your amiable virtues your Exellency\u2019s most obedient humble servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0257", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 2 January 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n            Treasury Department January 2d 1796.\n          The Secretary of the Treasury respectfully transmits to The President of the United States a paper received from the Commissioner of the Revenue, containing certain propositions of the proprietors of Montack-point on Long Island in the State of New York, relative to a tract of Land intended to be granted to the United States for the use of the Lighthouse now erecting on said Montack-point.\n          It is the opinion of the Secretary, that it is for the Interest of the United States to accept a grant of the land in question upon the terms proposed by the proprietors (viz.) that the United States shall pay to the said proprietors the sum of two hundred & fifty dollars upon their executing a good and sufficient deed for the said land: that the United States shall not erect, permit or suffer to be erected on the Land so granted any huts, houses or buildings whatsoever, excepting only such dwelling houses & out houses as may be necessary for the habitation of the person appointed to tend the said Lighthouse, or which may be necessary for the particular use and benefit of the said Lighthouse. That if at any time hereafter a partition-fence shall be made between the tract of Land so to be granted and the Land of the proprietors; the same shall be made at the expense of the United States, & forever after upheld & maintained by them. All which is respectfully submitted\n            Oliv: Wolcott JrSecry of the Treasury", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0258", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Bryan Fairfax, 3 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Fairfax, Bryan\n            Philadelphia 3d Jany 1796\n          Your favor of the 16th Ulto came safe, but not in the time which might have been expected from the date of it.\n          Mr Davie\u2019s letter is herewith returned. I do not know that more could have been done, than you have attempted to do; but it is exceedingly to be regretted, that villainy\u2014chicanery\u2014and every species of delay, should bring justice in such jeopardy, if it is not, intirely defeated by them. I shall hope however, that as long as there remains a tolerable chance of coming at it, that the suit will be prosecuted: and that Colo. Simms and whoever else is employed therein, will exert themselves to the utmost.\n          I am of opinion that good policy dictates the propriety of assuring them a handsome fee, or rather a certain percentage if they succeed; nothing if they do not. Trifling fees are thrown away upon Lawyers of any eminence for they excite no exertion and it cannot be expected that in a case which is in a manner desperate and without any appropriate funds, that large fees can be paid from our private purses. My advances to Mrs Savage in her life, during the days of her distress, was pretty considerable, and the Clerks and Sheriffs fees are continually adding to it\u2014Yours I am persuaded are equal thereto, and together, shew the expediency of a vigorous effort; which I see no others means of making than the one I have suggested.\n          My respects, and the compliments of the season, in which Mrs Washington joins me, are offered to Mrs Fairfax and yourself\u2014And with sincere esteem and regard I am\u2014Dear Sir Your Most Obedt & Affe Serv.\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0259", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Robert Gamble, 3 January 1796\nFrom: Gamble, Robert\nTo: Washington, George\n            Respected Sir\n          Understanding that a number of applications have been made in consequence of a recent act or Resolution of the Virginia assembly; to induce you to name some place, of the many, in the upper part of this state, which is, & will no doubt be mentioned to you a suitable place for the Education of Youth\u2014on which to bestow your munificence, by Endowing a seminary, with the Shares in the James River Canal Company you have appropriated to that purpose\u2014It is with great reluctance that I intrude on your time; so taken up with the weighty affairs which press on you, in Consequence of the Station you fill; at a time too, when faction is so active to embitter & pall those enjoyments & Consolations which unparralled services to your Country give you a right to experience.\n          But you will pardon the solicitude which induces me to bring to your recollection\u2014Staunton in Augusta County as A fit place for the Education of Youth.\n          This place is Situated near the Junction or rather interlocking of the Potowmack & James\u2019s River waters: in the fertile Vale between the Blue Ridge & North Mountain\u2019s\u2014about the Center from the Potowmack to the North carolina line\u2014and 160 Miles in a direct Course from Williamsburgh to the western parts of this state. which is a happy distance to prevent any interferrence with the William & Mary College\u2014The four great leading post roads from N. to S. & E. to W. center at Staunton\u2014it is a place of great resort in the summer season on account of the salubrity of the Climate, the thoroughfare to the Numerous Medicinal Springs in that part of the Country\u2014Next to Winchester it is the largest inland Town in Virginia, & rapidly growing\u2014has a well Supplied Market three times a Week & amongst the Cheapest places in the interior for boarding\u2014A Grammer School for some years has been Taught there\u2014which bid fair to arive at the wished for perfection & emimence\u2014But all at once the presbyterian clergyman around the Neighborhood set up Gramer Schools at their own houses\u2014which drew to those places most of the Scholars as the Local Situation Suited the residence of the people Concerned\u2014This Whim has now Subsided\u2014And Trustees (of which I am one)\u2014are incorporated by Act of Assembly\u2014a\nlarge Square Logged House with two apartments by Subscription is errected as a temporary begining\u2014and Globes with requisite apparatus is to be procured by me; for this purpose Collections by subscription are making\u2014(Stone buildings are erected cheap in that part of the Country[)]\u2014The Court House & Jail of that district, it is agreed Surpass all similar buildings in any district of the State.\n          Hitherto prejudices have been powerful in favor of Schools at Clergymens houses, & which may Still for Some reasons be continued usefully as a begining\u2014But You Contemplate no doubt to endow some place where the Young men of the upper parts of the State\u2014& those whose parents may Judge it essential that their Children improve by salubrity of Climate their Constitutions Whilst they are acquiring their education\u2014And at the same time a Situation which will give youth the oportunity of knowing the occurrances of the world\u2014from day to day\u2014And to my mind Staunton has this advantage, added to all others enumerated\u2014over any part of Virginia except Richmond for political information.\n          In Rockbridge County about 30 miles Above Staunton a building has been lately erected which admits of many Conveniences \u2014& has a number of pupils under the superintendance of a Revd Wm Graham\u2014who has taught in that part of the Country with success\u2014having at the begining of the Revolution obtained Contributions which procured a small Library\u2014This place is within half a Mile of a small Town & Court house named Lexington\u2014And would be still a usefull place for the youth of that Neighborhood to prepare them for a College\u2014The Local situation of the Teacher aided by the prejudices which some time ago operated against a Town as a place of Education\u2014& persevering exertion to draw the attention of people from Staunton\u2014has given, in that forced manner the pre eminence to this last mentioned seminary And accorded with the Local int\u27e8ent\u27e9 of the Teacher\u2014But, A plantation in the Neighborhood of Staunton formerly the Glebe of the parish is now Vested in the Trustees\u2014And the public spirit & Zeal of the Trustees & other Gentlemen in that part of the State leave not a doubt in my Mind\u2014That suitable buildings will be immediately errected at private Expense\u2014Should you on matur\u27e8e\u27e9 reflection taking into account as you surely will the Central and other advantages requisite by\nnature, to influence your Mind, in fixing the important Spot\u2014And Staunton meet your approbation\u2014Then will all Local & other prejudices be done away\u2014Then will the attention of the interior & back Country be drawn to that honored place\u2014And when it is considered at this time of prosperity & success\u2014How easily buildings &c. can be erected & will be erected The most proper place, will influence your decision without regards to the \u27e8illegible\u27e9 present advantage of a House in Rockbridge &c. being considered an object of moment, A Road is now opening from Kentuckey & is opened to the forks of Sandy & from thence intended next summer to New River or Kenawha above the mouth of Green Brier by the Sweet Springs, a good waggon road then leads to Staunton, And from the Acct given by a Committee of Merchants I met last September in Staunton from Kentuckey who were appointed to Confer with those of Staunton for that purpose\u2014This will bring that fertile Region 150 miles nearer than the usual routes now travelled to the waters of Potowmack.\n          Having an establshment in that place, and where I formerly resided\u2014and to which I take my family once a year, I will not dissemble that I feel a solicitude for its growing Consequence\u2014But I trust the opinion I have given is supported by fact without partiality\u2014and I confide in your wisdom Guided by that unerring providence which Visibly influences all your decisions\u2014That wherever you may allot\u2014time will evince the propriety thereof\u2014and that you may live to see happy progress in this aditional proof of your paternal care for the rising generation of your Country.\n          Mrs Gamble begs her respects be made to Mrs Washington (we had the happiness of seeing you & her last May in Philadelphia)\u2014And with Veneration & sincere esteem I am Sir your obedt & mo. Hume servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0260", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Johnson, 3 January 1796\nFrom: Johnson, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n            Frederick [Md.] 3d January 1796.\n          A pretty general Opinion prevails amongst us that Congress will this Session open a Land Office for the Northwestern Territory and the published proceedings in a degree confirm it. Colo. John Lynn, who has heretofore enjoyed your favorable Opinion in another Line, is desirous on the Event taking place that you should extend your Confidence to him in this new Department: I believe him competent to fill any Rank in it and on a long Acquaintance with him he has proved himself a man of probity and Honor\u2014I have had the pleasure to remark that he is exact in the discharge of public Duties, far from being greedy and has patience with the ignorant to whom he seems disinterestedly inclined to point out the Way. I am sir Your most obedt humble Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0261", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, 3 January 1796\nFrom: Lee, Henry\nTo: Washington, George\n            My dear President\n          In my last I told you that I had contrived to get an unsuspected private friend to hire an express to carry a le[tte]r from me to Mr. H. as I found waiting for private conveyances too tedious.\n          I have this moment reced his reply, after expressing himself very anxious indeed, to evidence (especially at the present crisis) by some public act his attachment to you & after declaring his sense of my friendship in mentioning him to you for a late vacancy, as well as for the proof exhibited in my letr then before him of my constant attention to his welfare, he goes on to say thus \u201cI am however constrained to decline every thought of public life\u2014the appointment you consider me proper for is both honorable & profitable\u2014to detail all my motives for withdrawing from the public is too tedious\u2014It is enough to tell you that my remaining stock of mental & corporeal energy is insufficient for a station so eminently demanding a large share of both\u2014the constant change of climate often from hot to hotter & from cold to colder is too much at my time of life.\u201d\n          I very much lament Mr Hs. conclusion for public & private considerations.\n          It is really a subject of much mortification to me that proper men will not enter into official trusts.\n          On your shoulders difficultys are thereby accumulated.\n          This is additional ground of distress to me\u2014But still I am sure all will go well.\n          Rs book has appeared (some few copys only) so far as I can hear it works very dully & will produce a different effect from the Authors expectation. Accept my best wishes & beleive me to be ever with the highest respect & purest attachment Your most ob: St", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0262", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James Monroe, 3 January 1796\nFrom: Monroe, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          Your favor of the 5. of June did not reach me till a few days past or it shod have been sooner answered. I am happy now to answer it because I am able to give you details of the Lady in question which will be very agreeable to you. I had advanc\u2019d her near 2000. dolrs when I was advised here by Jacob Van Staphorst that you had placd in the hands of his brother for Madame La Fayette the sum of two thousand three hundred & ten guilders & which had never been recd. At this time she was solicitting permission to leave France with a view of visiting & partaking with her husband the fortune to which he was exposed. I had given her a certificate that her husband had lands in America & that the Congress had appropriated to his use upwards of 20.000 dolrs the amt wh. was due for his services in our revolution, & upon which basis her application was founded & granted. I made known to her the fund you had appropriated for her use & which she readily & with pleasure accepted, & which served to defray the expence of her journey. She pursued her rout by Dunkurque & Hamburg to which places I gave & procured her letters of recommendation, & at the former of which she was recd in the house & entertained by our consul Mr Coffyn. I assured her when she left France there was no service within my power to render her & her husband & family that I wod not with pleasure render them. To count upon my utmost efforts & command them in their favor. That it was your wish & the wish of America that I shod do so. To consult her husband as to the mode & means & apprize me of his opinion thereon. She departed grateful to you & our country & since which I have not heard from her. She had thoughts of visitting in person the Emperor & endeavoring to obtain the release of her husband; but whether she did or not I can not tell. It was reported sometime since, he was released, & afterwards that she was admitted with her family into the same state of confinement with him: the\nlatter of which I believe to be true. Before she left this I became responsible in her favor for 9000 l[ivres] t[ournois] upon a months notice (in specie) the object of wh. was to free a considerable estate from some incumbrance & which was effected upon my surety. As yet I have not been called on to pay it. As soon therefore as I recd the draft on Holland for six thousand dolrs in her behalf, I wrote her by two different routs to assure her that I had funds for hers & her husbands support & upon which she might for the present draw to the amt of \u00a3250. strg, & afterwards as occasion might require, & to which I have recd no ansr.\n          What may be the ultimate disposition of France towards Mr La Fayette it is impossible now to say. His integrity as far as I can find remains unimpeached, & when that is the case the errors of the head are pardoned, as the passions subside. It is more than probable I may be able to serve him with those by whom he is confined, & that I may do this without injury to the U. States here; acting with candour and avowing the motive, since it is impossible that motive can be otherwise than approved, especially if the step be taken when their affrs are in great prosperity. For this however I shall be happy to have yr approbation, since if I do any thing with the Emperor it must be done in yr name, if not explicitly yet in a manner to make known to him the interest you take in the welfare of Mr La Fayette. Young La Fayette is I presume now under yr auspices.\n          Within a few days past a truce or armistice was concluded between Pichegru & Jourdan on the one side & Clairfait & Wurmser on the other as it is said for three months: this was of course subject to the approbation or rejection of the govts on each side & I hear that it was rejected on the side of France: orders being sent by the Directoire to pursue the war without cessation. Both armies are in the neighbourhood of Mayence where the country is almost entirely devastated. In Italy the austrians are completely routed & their whole army nearly demolished. Tis said that 8000. prisoners are brought to one of the French villages. Mrs Monroe desires her best respects to be presented to yourself & Mrs Washington who we hope enjoy good health. If there is any thing in which I can be servicable to you here, any article of curiosity or taste you wish to possess & which can be procurd I beg of you to make it known to me that I may procure it for you.\nWith great & sincere respect and esteem I am Dear Sir your most obt & very humble Servant\n            Jas Monroe\n            P.S. There are many articles of tapestry the most beautiful that can be conceived, & wh. are intended for the walls of rooms, for chair bottoms &ca, some of which perhaps wod be acceptable to the comrs of the f\u0153deral town, & which if permitted by you or them I wod immediately procure & forward.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0263", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 3 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n            Philadelphia 3d Jan. 1796.\n          Your letter of the 27th with the reports came to hand yesterday\u2014and I am glad to find you have met with a supply of twine in Alexandria, as there is no prospect that has yet opened, of getting it from hence in time and I have no doubt that under all chances fishing yourself will be more profitable than hiring out the landing for Sixty pounds.\n          I am not disposed to take any thing less for my flour than it sells at here (allowing for freight and Insurance) for if it is well manufactured, it will pass Inspection in this Market, and of course command the price of other flour, without the credit which is required in Alexandria and would be for my interest to bring it hither, rather than sell at an under rate. In any case, however, I request that Davenport may hasten the grinding as much as possible, that you may be enabled to take the advantage of a Vessels wanting a quantity to disp\u27e8a\u27e9tch her, and the badness of the roads, which may prevent its coming from the upper country by land; which must be the case now, from the openess of the winter, hitherto; and will be the case in the spring when it is breaking up which circumstances are favorable for a good sale if you keep a good lookout.\n          My letter to you, must have been opened after it went from me, for I think it never could have left my hands without a Seal. But letters for sometime past have been opened, to come at Bank & Post notes; and some persons are now under trial for this practice. I am Your friend &ca\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0264", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 3 January 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n          Letter not found: from William Pearce, 3 Jan. 1796. On 17 Jan., GW wrote Pearce: \u201cYour letters of the 3d & 10th instt are both before me.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0265", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, 4 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Senate,House of Representatives\n            United States January 4th 1796.\n            Gentlemen of the Senate, & House of Representatives,\n          A letter from the minister Plenipotentiary of the French Republic received on the 22d of the last month, covered an address, dated the 21st of October 1794, from the Committee of Public Safety to the Representatives of the United States in Congress; and also informed me that he was instructed by the Committee to present to the United States the Colours of France. I thereupon proposed to receive them, last Friday, the first day of the New Year, a day of general Joy and Congratulation. On that day the minister of the French Republic delivered the Colours, with an address, to which I returned an answer. By the latter the Senate will see that I have informed the minister, that the Colours will be deposited with the Archives of the United States. But it seemed to me proper previously to exhibit to the two Houses of Congress these evidences of the continued Friendship of the French Republic, together with the sentiments expressed by me on the occasion in behalf of the United States. They are herewith communicated.\n            Go. Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0266", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gouverneur Morris, 5 January 1796\nFrom: Morris, Gouverneur\nTo: Washington, George\n          I did myself the Honor of writing to you on the 19th of last month, of which Letter I now transmit a Copy. I exprest an Idea in the Close of it which may perhaps require an explanatory Observation. Suppose it should be admitted, in general, that the neutral who, by Virtue of special Permission granted during the War, exercises a Commerce with the belligerent Power\u2019s Dominion, from which he was excluded during the Peace, should be considered as taking Part (so far) with such Power, and liable (in Consequence) to Seizure and Confiscation; are there not Circumstances which must generally qualify that general Position? In the particular application of it to the Commerce with Colonies in the West Indias, are there not Circumstances which require particular Exceptions, in Regard to the United States: I opine in both Cases for the affirmative, and I consider it as highly important that the Law of Nations, on these Points, should receive a clear Exposition by that Species of Tribunal which our late\nTreaty with this Country has established. It is also my Opinion, and ever has been, that the Maxim free Ship makes free Goods, is in Principle unfounded, will in Practice be disregarded, and in it\u2019s Application to us cannot but prove injurious. As to the Principle I will say Nothing; because the Stipulations made, to that Effect, between contracting Powers shew it to be their Opinion that the Law is otherwise. For these Stipulations are not in the Nature of a Declaration as to what the Law is, but of an Exception to it. As to the Practise, it will be sufficient to remark on the Conduct which France has pursued towards us, during the present War. But as to the Application of this Principle towards the United States in any War which we may sustain against one of the commercial Powers, it may be proper to view it well, before we submit to it. Whenever, and in so far, as we shall have agreed to it we cannot, as others do, shake off the Shackles of our plighted Faith. Our Enemy, altho bound up to the same Principle will, if it prove inconvenient, find Pretexts to elude, or else wholly disavow it. We are then reduc\u2019d to the Necessity of pursuing his Steps to the Violation of our Faith, and of our Constitution, the greatest (in my Opinion) of all possible Evils; or else we must see the Commerce of our Enemy secur\u2019d by a neutral Flag, and our own expos\u2019d to Capture. Let it, however, be admitted that our Enemy will respect the Principle which his Treaties (like ours) have established with a neutral Power, shall we then stand on an equal Footing with him? Certainly not. I know not any Part of our Commerce which neutrals may not carry on, upon their own Account, both in Peace and in War. Our Country, therefore, could suffer no Suspension of her Trade by being engag\u2019d in Hostilities. But the Case of our Enemy would be widely different. The Powers of Europe, from the Defect of liberal Policy and the operation of mutual Jealousies, have attach\u2019d themselves (more or less) to barbarous Systems of Monopoly and Exclusion. Hence it happens that, in Time of War, neutral Subjects cannot take up those Branches of Commerce which, in the Hands of those who are expos\u2019d to the Effects of Capture, become extremely precarious, without exposing themselves to great Risque and Damage; should the opposed Power go to the full Exercise of his Rights. And this is most particularly the Case in Regard to all those Commodities producd by the Southern Part of our Hemisphere. These, taken in the Mass, form the most valuable Commerce which the\nNations of Europe possess; and, by the immutable Laws of Nations they must be transported (as it were) by our Doors. Can it then be wise to preclude ourselves from the Right, we now possess, of taking them when at War with the Owners? Let us suppose we were at Variance with Spain, and then ask whether it would be consistent to see a Ship of Hamburg take in Dollars at la Vera Cruz and transport them to the North of Europe, there to purchase naval Stores and salted Provisions for the Purpose of carrying on Hostilities against us. Or if the Principle of free Ship free Goods be establish\u2019d, let it then be explain\u2019d how such Acts could be prevented; especially if it should be also admitted that a neutral Subject may, by special Permission granted during the War, carry on a Trade from which he had been previously excluded. To look forward to the End, is a common Maxim of Prudence, and I know not any Person who has conform\u2019d to it more exactly than you have. I know also that false Principles of a pretended philanthropic Philosophy have greatly deluded many bookish Statesmen, who make (for themselves) a World of their own in their Closets, and govern it as Maids do their Children and Bachelors their Wives. It may truly be said of them, that \u201ctheir Kingdom is not of this World\u201d and they are too apt to brand with harsh Epithets those \u201cChildren of this World\u201d who in some Respects at least \u201care wiser in their Generation than the Children of Light.\u201d In Effect, Mankind have within the last twenty years, receiv\u2019d so much of this Sort of Illumination that being dazzled, by the Excess, they can scarcely see; and I am sorely affraid that, in the Business I have just mention\u2019d, we shall, for the Sake of a fine Philosophical Theory, sacrifice a great national Interest. I am my dear Sir ever & truly yours\n            Gouvr Morris", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0267", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Elizabeth Parke Custis, 6 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Custis, Elizabeth Parke\n            My dear Betsey.\n            Philadelphia 6th Jan. 1796\n          While you confide in, and do those things which you have reason to believe are pleasing and grateful to me, you may be\nassured of an affectionate return. Whenever there is a derilection of them on your part, it will, no doubt, produce a correspondent effect on my part.\n          Having fixed these data as the basis of a correspondence which you have solicited, I promise, while you adhere to them, in principle and practice, to answer all your letters in as prompt a manner, as my leisure will permit; and do assure you moreover, that the same candid advice will be given to you as if you were my own daughter.\n          In your letter, you say, you shall always be thankful to me for my advice: On what occasions? Am I to wait your explanation, or am I to guess at your meaning? If the former, propound your subjects, and do it with frankness. If the latter, I may wander in the field of conjecture; but with a girl of nineteen, it may not be so difficult to conceive; because Love and its concomitants, are supposed to be always in the foreground.\n          Taking love then for the theme, let me ask if you have already drank of this cup; or do you wish to know my description of a person who would be proper to administer it to you? If the first, advice will come too late; for your answer, I am persuaded would be similar to that of a lady of my acquaintance, who asking the opinion of her friend on the propriety of yielding to the addresses of her lover, added, she hoped it would meet her approbation; but concluded \u201cshe was resolved to marry him\u201d\u2014If the latter, my description of a suitable character may receive some attention\u2014& upon that ground I proceed, to offer the following sentiments.\n          Neither shun by too much coyness, the addresses of a suitable character whom you may esteem; nor encourage them by any advances on your part, however predisposed toward them your inclination may be. The first may discourage, the other may disgust, the man of sensibility.\n          Connect yourself with a person of congenial age: for youth and old age, no more than winter & Summer, can be assimilated\u2014the frigidity of the latter, cannot be kept in unison with the warmth of the former: and besides the habits of the two, are widely dissimilar.\n          In chusing a partner for life, prefer one of your own countrymen (by this I mean an American) of visible property; whose family is known, & whose circumstances (not depending upon adventitious or fortuitous matters) may not, like a foreigner\u2019s\nreduce you to the heart rending alternative of parting with him, or bidding an adieu to your Country, family, and friends for ever.\n          In forming a connection of this durability, let the understanding, as well as the passions be consulted; without the approbation of the first, the indulgence of the latter may be compared to the Rose, which will bloom, glow for a while, then fade and die; leaving nothing but thorns behind them.\n          There are other considerations, which, tho\u2019 secondary, are, nevertheless, important. Among these, congeniality of temper, is essential; without which, discord will ensue; and that walk must be unpleasant & toilsome, when two persons linked together, cannot move in it without jostling each other. And alas! how often is this found to be the case.\n          Next in order to love, you may have placed friendship. On this then I will touch; and it might be sufficient perhaps simply to say of it, as Lord Chatham did on another occasion \u201cthat it is\u201d (or ought to be) \u201ca plant of slow growth\u201d otherwise, like the more powerful passion of love, that kindles in a moment and burns furiously, it will consume with its own heat, or evaporate in smoke. Friendship is highly to be prised when it is sincere; but much circumspection is necessary in the choice of a friend before our confidence is given. To enumerate all the requisite qualifications to justify this confidence, would run me into prolixity; and therefore I rather chuse to mention some which ought to be avoided. Talkativeness\u2014Satirests\u2014and intermeddlers in the concerns of others, are of this description. The itch which those of the first class have to be talking, always carry them beyond the limit of prudence. A satirical person, ridicules & exposes the foibles\u2014the persons\u2014& dress of every one\u2014and those who are prying into the concerns of others, & disclosing them under the injunction of secresy, spares no body. No safe friendship can be formed where truth, honor, good sense & prudence are wanting: the discovery of wch is not the work of a moment.\n          You have asked my opinion of a certain lady\u2014I answer\u2014that my acquaintance with her is too limited to have formed any\u2014Eulogiums therefore is not be expected; & the contrary might be unjust\u2014But as I have arrived at the end of my paper if not to the finish of my remarks on the foregoing subjects, I will close my letter with the best wishes & affectionate regards of yr friend\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0268", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 6 January 1796\nFrom: Lear, Tobias\nTo: Washington, George\n            Washington [D.C.] January 6th 1796\n          Captn Myers, who arrived here last week, put into my hands your highly respected favor of the 25 ultimo; and I have now the pleasure to inform you that Captn Myers has been engaged by the Directors of the Potomac Company for one year, as Engineer & Superintendent of their works.\n          The Directors being unacquainted with Captn Myers\u2019 fitness for the business he has undertaken, further than his Certificates &c. go, (which are respectable) and he not knowing what may be the expenses of supporting a family, and himself seperate from them, as he must be in his attendance on his duties, it was thot best to put it on a footing of paying him a sum quarterly adequate to his support &c.\u2014and at the expiration of the year make such addition to it as, in the opinion of the board, his services &c. may merit. with this he is perfectly satisfied. The sum allowed is four hundred dollars per quarter.\n          He enters immediately on his duty and will send for his family to come on here to him. He has, for the present, taken a small House in the City near the Bridge. His appearance his manner & conversation make favorable impressions\u2014and I have the best hope that he will prove a valuable acquisition to this part of the Country as well as to the Potomac Company.\n          The State of Virginia has taken 20 Shares in the additional Stock, which must be relinquished by those who subscribed under the condition of giving up in such an event; but there appears now to be a demand for shares & I have no doubt of their being considered superior to any other Stock as soon as it is seen that system & activity are pursued in the work.\n          Fanny, who writes to her Aunt at this time unites with me in compliments of the season, and in most sincere wishes for the health & happiness of yourself, your good Mrs Washington and the family. I am, my dear Sir, very truly, Your grateful & most affecte friend\n            Tobias Lear", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0270", "content": "Title: To George Washington from George Hancock, 7 January 1796\nFrom: Hancock, George\nTo: Washington, George\n          Having understood that you have it in contemplation to appropriate the Shares which you own in the James River company to the endowing an Academy in the upper part of Virginia, and presuming that you would have no Objection to recieve every information which would tend to a knowledge of the most proper place, I have taken the liberty of requesting that I may be permited to have an interview, whenever you may have leisure for\nthat purpose And that Colo. Breckenridge whose knowledge of the Upper Country of Virginia is very extensive may also be present. I am with the greatest respect, Your most Obedient servant\n            Geo: Hancock", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0272", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, 8 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Senate,House of Representatives\n            United States, January the 8th 1796\n          Gentlemen of the Senate, and House of Representatives\n          I transmit to you a Memorial of the Commissioners appointed by virtue of an Act intitled, \u201can act for establishing the temporary\nand permanent seat of the Government of the United States,\u201d on the subject of the public buildings under their direction.\n          Since locating a District for the permanent seat of the Government of the United States, as heretofore announced to both Houses of Congress; I have accepted the grants of money and of Land, stated in the Memorial of the Commissioners. I have directed the buildings therein mentioned, to be commenced on plans which I deemed consistent with the liberality of the Grants, and proper for the purposes intended.\n          I have not been inattentive to this important business, intrusted by the Legislature to my care. I have viewed the resources placed in my hands, and observed the manner in which they have been applied: the progress is pretty fully detailed in the Memorial from the Commissioners; and one of them attends to give further information if required. In a case new and arduous like the present, difficulties might naturally be expected: some have occurred; but they are in a great degree surmounted; and I have no doubt, if the remaining resources are properly cherished, so as to prevent the loss of property by hasty and numerous sales, that all the buildings required for the accommodation of the Government of the United States, may be completed in season, without aid from the Federal Treasury. The subject is therefore recommended to the consideration of Congress, and the result will determine the measures which I shall cause to be pursued with respect to the property remaining unsold.\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0273", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 8 January 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n            Treasury Department January the 8. 1796.\n          The Secretary of the Treasury respectfully transmits to The President of the United States a letter from the Collector of\nWashington to the Commissioner of the Revenue, dated the 22d of Decemr 1795, on the subject of a Contract made by the said Collector with John Gray Blount, for the stakage of Albemarle sound and its channels, Croetan shoals & the marshes; during the year 1796, for one hundred and sixty Dollars.\n          The Secretary of the Treasury begs leave to observe, that this Contract is in lieu of one which with other matters of a similar nature was submitted to The President, in his letter of the 27th of August last, and then suspended for the reasons therein mentioned, and that it will be adviseable to authorize a Contract on the terms now proposed, being the best that can be obtained.\n          The Secretary has also the honor to represent to The President, that the office of Superintendant of the Stakage for the District of Washington, having become vacant by the death of Nathan Keais the late Collector, it would be expedient in his opinion, to commit the management of that business to William Keais the present Collector. All which is respectfully submitted.\n            Olivr Wolcott, JrSecry of the Treasury", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0274", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Bingham, 9 January 1796\nFrom: Bingham, William\nTo: Washington, George\n          I have the honor to enclose you herewith, a Letter from a very respectable Character, recommendatory of Mr Mathieu, as a fit Person to discharge the Duties of Consul of the United States at the Port of Naples\u2014His opinions are confirmed by the concurring Testimony of several Gentlemen, who were personally acquainted with Mr Mathieu during his Residence at St Domingo, & who are well worthy of Credit. I am respectfully sir Your obedt hble servt\n            Wm Bingham", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0275", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Robert Brooke, 9 January 1796\nFrom: Brooke, Robert\nTo: Washington, George\n            Richmond January 9th 1796\n          Agreeably to your request I submitted to the consideration of the General Assembly of Virginia your letter respecting the appropriation of the shares in the Potowmack and James river Companies which had been by them subjected to your disposal; and I have now the honor to enclose you their resolutions thereupon and have the honor to be, with the most perfect respect, your obedt Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0276", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James Montgomery, 10 January 1796\nFrom: Montgomery, James\nTo: Washington, George\n            Philadelphia January 10th 1796\n          Your Petitioner understanding that a Vacancy is like to take Place in the Office of Surveyor of the District of Pensylvania by the Resignation of General Stewart Your Petitioner Humbly offers Himself as a Candidate for that Office and altho former Services in the Revolution of our Country are no Recommendation in the Estimation of many yet I flatter myself your Petitioner has some Claim on your Excellency\u2019s Memory for past Services it is needless to acquaint your Excellency I have experienced a reverse of Fortune and that I have a very large Family but no Situation in Life however distressing could make me swerve from my Duty nor could any Advantage to Myself tempt me to deviate from the strictest Rules of Probity.\n          Should this Petition meet with your Excellency\u2019s Approbation I shall ever Remember it with the Warmest Gratitude and am with the Highest Sentiments of Respect Your Excellency\u2019s most Devoted and Obedient Humble Servant\n            James Montgomery", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0279", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Henry Lee, 11 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lee, Henry\n            Philadelphia 11th Jan. 179[6]\n          Your letter of the 26th Ulo has been received, & nothing from you since; which is embarrassing to me in the extreme; for not only the nomination of Ch\u2014\u2014f J\u2014\u2014but an As\u2014\u2014te J\u2014\u2014dge and Se\u2014\u2014y of W\u2014\u2014 are depending upon the answer I expected. And what renders the want of it more unfortunate, if any thing can add to my present perplexity on the occasion is, that the first Monday in next month which happens on the first day of it is the time appointed by Law for the meeting of the Supreme Court of the U.S. in this City at which for particular reasons the Bench ought to be full. I will add no more at present than that I am always Yr Affecte", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0280", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gouverneur Morris, 11 January 1796\nFrom: Morris, Gouverneur\nTo: Washington, George\n          When I wrote to you on the fifth Instant; of which Letter a Copy is enclos\u2019d, I had not Time to notice a Subject about which different Ideas are entertain\u2019d here. I mean the late Measures\ntaken in France to establish their Finances. These may perhaps be announced in America not only as the Perfection of human Wisdom, but also as inevitably productive of the best Effects: in which Respect they would differ from those Perfections of Wisdom heretofore exhibited on that Theatre. Our Experience, in America, would have proved (had Proof been necessary) that the natural Effect of Paper Money is to consume all the personal Property of a Country. Not intending to write a Treatise on that Subject, I will not here go into the Reasons why, from the Nature of Money be the Form or Substance what it may, the circulating Medium is represented only by the moveable Property of a Country: excepting always the Case of actual Sales of Land; which Land does for that single Moment represent the precise Sum received. It follows however that in Proportion to the Encrease of that Medium, or the Decrease of Commodities which it represents, including in these the Debts for which it is a Tender, the Prices will rise or the Money loose of it\u2019s Value. This is clear, supposing that Value to depend only in a small Degree on Opinion, but if it depend greatly or entirely on Opinion, Depreciation (inasmuch as it affects Opinion) becomes the Cause of ulterior Depreciation. The Assignats were going on in this natural Progression when, after the Revolution of the tenth of August, Measures of encreasing Cruelty were successively adopted to force Property out of the Hands of it\u2019s owners; or at least to render the Possession of it highly dangerous. At the same Time the Total Suspension of foreign Commerce shut up all remaining Commodities within the Country; and the Permission to export was only granted in Exchange for Articles wanted by the Government. Thus the Value of the Paper was forced up by a Kind of qualified Robbery, on the Part of the Government, which gave it\u2019s Paper for those Things which it oblig\u2019d the Owner to sell, and which all but it\u2019s Agents were prohibited from buying, by the very same Means which compelled the Sale. Mankind were pretty generally the Dupes of these Appearances, & altho they were going on to encrease the nominal Amount of their Paper to more than the Fee-simple of the whole Country was worth, People whose Habits and Profession should have taught them better, persisted in the absurd Idea that all that Mass of Paper would be paid according to it\u2019s specified Value. When I left France, that System of Terror being for awhile suspended,\nI did not hesitate to declare that the Paper would rapidly fall: and, being prest by one of it\u2019s Advocates to say how far and in what Period, gave it as my Opinion that it might in a Year be at a hundred for one. Strange as this Opinion then appeard, Experience has more than justified it.\n          This is a tedious Preface to what I meant to say, but it seem\u2019d proper to shew, by Example, that the Ideas (even) of professional Men may be very erroneous upon this Subject, which our Experience has (I beleive) enabled us to consider more maturely than many others. You will have seen that one of the first Plans suggested in France was to issue, under a different Name, new Paper for the old. As this was not adopted, the Absurdity need not be detail\u2019d. Another Plan, which does not appear to have been made public, was to call on Individuals of Property to give to the Government their negotiable Bonds; and then to obtain Supplies on the Credit of those Bonds: the Cash to be supplied (in the first Instance) at a great Discount by Societies of monied Men in Paris, and these to reimburse themselves, with Advantage, by Sale of Shares in such Operations to wealthy Foreigners. This Plan was impracticable, not meerly from the Doubt whether Foreigners would embark their Funds in such Speculations, but also from the Want of Capitalists in France to set the Machine in Motion. These had been destroyed pecuniarily by the Assignats & physically by the Guillotine. I come now to the Plan which was actually adopted.\n          This consists theoretically of three Parts. 1st to issue only 30.000.000.000 livres in Assignats. 2ly to fix their Relation to Specie at 100 which would reduce the Mass to 300,000.000. 3ly to exact by Force, and under the Name of a Loan, the Contribution of 600.000.000 (over & above all other Taxes) of which one half to be paid in Paper at 100 and the other Half in Specie. The Reasoning on this fine System is conclusive. The Paper Moiety of the Loan pays off all the Assignats. The Specie Moiety pays the Expences of the ensuing Campaign, which cannot but prove glorious to the Republic. And then she opens the year 1797 with a trivial Remnant of her antient Debt, much of which was prudently discharged by the Guillotine, and with a prodigious landed Property on which to issue new Assignats, and run again round the Circle which she will have (then) just compleated. This reminds me of a Sophism which some one attempted to palm on me when I was yet a Child. That if a Tortoise had the\nStart of a Fox, the Fox would never overtake him; because it was impossible, tho the Fox should go ten times faster than the Tortoise, but that this must go some Distance viz. a tenth of what the other should move over, and then while he was going that tenth the other would have advanced an hundredth and so on ad infinitum. My Answer was, let the Fox make a good Jump. Now those who have reasoned in the Manner before stated about french Finance never thought of the good Jump. Admitting, for Argument\u2019s Sake, that it be possible to levy that enormous Assessmt; and it is utterly impossible, but by such Depreciation of the Paper as must render the Payment meerly nominal, the Sum of the Argument amounts to this; that France, now exhausted beyond any Thing of which modern Times can furnish an Example, should be able not only to defray the Expences of a vigorous War, and that too with a most prodigal Administration, but also to discharge a Debt of twelve Millions Sterling. This is at the first Blush, an Absurdity. As to paying the Debt, it is indeed very easy: for by nominally encreasing the Amount, it will (by the Force of Depreciation) discharge itself. The Assignats are already at about 200 and if extended to 40.000.000[.]000. they will be under 400 in which Case the Amount will be only 100 Millions, or four Millions Sterling: that is one third of what the System Makers calculated. But as to the Expences of the Campaign, that is a different Affair. Should they retire within their own Limits, and openly profess the Determination to make Peace, provided those Limits were secured to them, it is hard to say what might be the Extent of those Efforts which they might yet make. For, in this Case, we must take into Contemplation the national Pride, her characteristic Enthusiasm, and the Force of a Government the most absolute in it\u2019s nature, and whose Members have every Thing to gain and to loose. As these Circumstances go out of the usual Course of financial Calculation, I will not dwell upon them. My Object was meerly to convey some Ground for the Opinion I entertain, that the newly adopted System of Finance is radically defective, inasmuch as it appears to my Mind self evident that no Force of Taxation can squeeze out from the People of France a Sum equal to the unavoidable Expenditures; so that, if their Enemies persist in the War, they must keep the Press agoing as long as any Thing can be done with it, and then resort to the convulsive Struggles of Despair. But I hear you say, will their Enemies persist in the War? I own to you that I am not\nable to answer that Question, decisively. I will not speak of the Views which I may suppose this Court to have; but all the World, except the Members of Parliament who are in the Opposition, see that Britain is gaining more by the present War than she ever did in any equal Space of Time during her History. Austria cannot but feel that the Contest wears her down, for the Sake of recovering the low Countries which, from their remote Situation, must ever be an onerous and precarious Possession. Should France therefore cede her Conquests, I cannot see why the Emperor should not immediately quit the Game, and proceed to those Exchanges and Arrangements which will suit his Views. It is true that his Engagements with this Country and with Russia might stand in the Way; but after making certain Propositions to the former, he might hold himself excused by their NonAcceptance, and the Empress (by the bye there is a Report of her Death) would rather have the Aid of her imperial Ally to secure the Spoils of Poland against any Attempts which might be made by Prussia and Turkey, than furnish a Body of her Troops to be employed on the Rhine. Will the Desire of reestablishing the House of Bourbon in France have any material Operation? On this Subject I will write to you at my first Leizure. This is enough I fear to tire your Patience, so I bid you Adieu. I am ever & truly yours\n            Gouvr Morris", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0281", "content": "Title: To George Washington from George Smith, 11 January 1796\nFrom: Smith, George\nTo: Washington, George\n            Galston [Scotland] Jany 11th 1796\n          I did myself the Honour of writing your Excelly once & again on the Subject of Mr William Hunter\u2019s affairs, the last Letter\nabout twelve months ago, and have never been favoured with any answer. A. Mr Ichabod Hunter, one of Mr W. Hunter\u2019s Exrs was in this Country about five months ago, who assured Mr John Hunter, that one or both of my Letters had reached you, & that we might expect a reply concerning the Subject of them. I had not the pleasure of seing Mr I. Hunter, but Mr John Hunter tells me, that Mr Ichabod seemed rather shy, in answering any of his Queries regarding his Brothers affairs, & wished rather to refer him to what you might be pleased to write, at same time, He allowed, that if Mr W. Hunter\u2019s affairs were settled, & all his Debts called in, that there would He thought be a very considerable reversion\u2014Mr W. Hunters Store, his House, his Wharf, and Large property in Land, are valuable articles, & if these have been regularly applyed to the payment of his Debts; it is well, but it is extremely hard that His Brother John, at whose desire I have wrote this & the former Letters, never till this moment has received any regular account of his affairs\u2014It is said that your Excy did not decline some little management in Mr Hunter\u2019s affairs, at least, that you would give information by writing on the Subject. May I therefore sollicit, as I do again most earnestly & sincerely, that you will be kind enough to write me upon this Business, that John Hunter may have some Idea, how matters are, regarding his Brothers Debit & Credit, & if there is a certain prospect of any considerable reversion, He will immediately come out to America himself, or be advised by you whom to employ in the management of his affairs. There is a report, here too, that a Mr Ross one of Mr W. Hunter\u2019s greatest Creditors, is in prison some where in Am[eric]a, & that it was exp\u27e8ected\u27e9 that He should administer upon Mr Hunter\u2019s Estate, which it seems he has never done, tho\u2019 it is said, that his wife is living away, & to all appearance, in very affluent circumstances\u2014I mentioned before, the Desire which Mr John Hunter & the other Relations in this Country have to get possession of the watch, Trinkets, Silver plate, & other valuable articles of the Deceased, and it will be Satisfactory, highly so, to them, to know, if they cannot now be recovered, that they have gone to the payment of Mr W. Hunter\u2019s Debts. It is needless for me to enlarge. you had a friendship & regard for Mr Hunter yourself, & this alongst with the justice of the Cause, emboldens me still to hope that you will not refuse to answer this Letter, & may I hope that you will be good enough to\ndo it as soon as possible. I have the Honour to be with all Esteem & Regard Sir Your Excellencie\u2019s most obt \u27e8& mo\u27e9st Hble Servt\n            George Smith\n            P.S. My address is G. S. min[iste]r at Galston, by Kilmk.\n            P.S. I have open\u2019d the Letter after 1st closing to \u27e8cause\u27e9 John Hunter sign his name to the within. G.S.\n            N.B. This & the two former Letters was wrote at my Desire and I am extremly anxious to be inform\u2019d fully as to my Brothers affairs.\n              John HunterBrother to William Hunter junr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0282", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 12 January 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n            Treasury Department January 12th 1796.\n          The Secretary of the Treasury has the honor to transmit to The President of the United States triplicates of a statement of Expenditures upon the funds heretofore appropriated for defraying the Contingent Charges of Government up to the 31st of December last.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0283", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 13 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Senate\n            Gentlemen of the Senate,\n            United States, January 13th 1796.\n          I nominate William Jackson, of Philadelphia, to be Surveyor for the port of Philadelphia, and Inspector of the Revenue for the same; vice Walter Stewart resigned:\n          Simons Maxwell, to be Collector for the District of Hardwick, in Georgia, and Inspector of the Revenue for the Port of Hardwick; vice Thomas Collier, resigned.\n          Stephen Bingham to be Surveyor for the port of West-point in the District of York, Virginia, and Inspector of the Revenue for the same; vice Alexander Moore resigned.\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0284", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, 13 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Senate,House of Representatives\n            United States Jany 13th 1796\n          Gentlemen of the Senate, and House of Representatives.\n          I lay before you an official Statement of the Expenditure to the end of the year 1795, from the sums heretofore granted to defray the Contingent charges of the Government.\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0285", "content": "Title: To George Washington from George Fitzhugh, 14 January 1796\nFrom: Fitzhugh, George\nTo: Washington, George\n            Virga King Geo. Cy 14 Jany 1796\n          A few days ago I was in Gloucester County; whilst there, I rode through a tract of Land a Gentleman in Company informed me belong to you; he said you offered it for sale a few years ago, but coud not tell me the terms. If Sir, you are still inclinable to dispose of it, and your terms are such as I can purchase under, dont doubt but we may bargain. Will thank you for a line on the subject, when I will take a full view of the Lands and give an answer. With real esteem and respect I am Sir Your Obt Hble Sert\n            George Fitzhugh", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0286", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Robert Randall, 14 January 1796\nFrom: Randall, Robert\nTo: Washington, George\n            The Memorial of Robert Randall Humbly Sheweth\n          That Your Memorialist has been committed to close confinement in the Goal of the City of Philadelphia as well upon an Arrest agreable to an Order of the House of Representatives in Congress as upon an Arrest of the Marshall of the United States in consequence of a prosecution against Your Memorialist at suit of the said United States, & both Arrests grounded on a charge of a breach of Priviledge and contempt of the House of Representatives.\n          That Your Memorialist has by a resolution of the House of Representatives in Congress adopted Yesterday been discharged from the Custody of the Sargeant at Arms Upon the payment of fees And is now under confinement under the said prosecution only.\n          That Your Memorialist with due deference submits it to the opinion of your Excellency whether the proceedings against him in Congress do not in their operation supersede the\nprosecution instituted against him in the Courts of the United States, and whether the said prosecution can therefore be supported. Your Memorialist would with the same deference farther submit whether the offence charged\u2014which in its greatest extent only implicates an attempt to corrupt\u2014& Not an Actual corruption\u2014is cognizable by the Courts of the United States & therefore the punishment already suffered is not the only one that by the Laws of the Country can be inflicted.\n          Your Memorialist would farther state that he has received the reprimand of the Honourable house of representatives in Congress, and in Virtue of their Order has suffered an imprisonment which Congress by the passage of the above mentioned resolution must have conceived an adequate punishment for the offence which in their opinion he had committed.\n          Your Memorialist therefore prays Your Excellency that Your E[x]cellency will in Your clemency Authorise and direct the Attorney General of the United States to enter a Noli Prosequi in the said prosecution that Your Memorialist may thereby be released intirely from his present confinement, & the linient views of the House of Representatives of the United States be compleatly and fully carried into effect. And Your Memorialist will ever pray &c.\n            Robert Randall", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0288", "content": "Title: To George Washington from George Gilpin, 16 January 1796\nFrom: Gilpin, George\nTo: Washington, George\n            Alexandria [Va.] January 16th 1796\n          I believe I have committed a trespass on your Excellencys property but I can assure you not wilfully and further I am willing to pay what ever damage you may Say I have done. the fact is as follows, in the month of October I spoke to Capt. William H. Terrett for Six trees three small, and three larger to dig up for knees for a wood flat, he informd me that I might have them when I went out to have them cut a man which I understood was his overseer went with me and Shewd where he under Stood Terretts land lay when my people had Cut down the three Small trees for beams and hawlled them away and Grubbd up three large trees for knees and hawlled one away Mr George Minor Informed me that the Cutting was on your land the timber then left is still on the land and I shall Chearfully pay wha[t]ever damage you say I have done or if you Choose let Mr Minor or any Other Gentleman Say the damage I will pay directly. I am sorry\nit so happened but it was not my fault I did all that I thought was nec[e]ssary to keep Clear of harm I Should have wrote you sooner but I expected to have seen you in fairfax an[d] spoke to you on the Subject. I am sir your most Obedient Humble Servt,\n            George Gilpin", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0289", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Gordon, 16 January 1796\nFrom: Gordon, William\nTo: Washington, George\n            St Neots Hunts [England] Jany 16. 1796.\n          This will be presented to You, as I hope, by the nephew of Mrs Gordon, Mr Oliver Field; who from right principles emigrates from Great Britain, that he may become a citizen of the United States, & secure to himself, & family & posterity, those sacred & civil rights, that he cannot enjoy in his native country. He prefers the American Constitution to all others: & from conviction of its being calculated to preserve the privileges of all under a good government will necessarily support it by practice & influence, & discourage all that anarchy which is baneful to the well being of society.\n          With pleasure I markt the contents of your late speech to the Congress; & observed, that you had passed over, without noticing, the irregular & intemperate proceedings of town & city meetings, regarding matters of State, in which they had no right to interfere. The publications of Curtius & Camillus I have perused in Fenno\u2019s Gazettes with satisfaction, & promise myself they have answered the valuable ends proposed by the writers. Was astonished that Judge Rutledge should express such violence: & could not but approve of the manner you had silenced him, by heaping coals of kindness upon his head.\n          My nephew settled at Worcester, where he was in business for many years, till the present removal; & maintained an\nirreproachable character, & was much respected. He has not determined where to settle; but sails with his wife & two children immediately for Philada, from whence he thinks of making excursions to New York & other places.\n          We have had hitherto the most open & mild & blowing winter, with the wind chiefly at west & southwest, that ever was known in the memory of man. The body of the nation are now panting heartily for peace; & from the cessation of hostilities between the French & Austrians in Germany, many are willing to hope, that it is at no great distance. In my opinion the British ministry & Sovereign will make no peace, till they have tried their utmost in the East & West Indies, against the French & Dutch settlements; & that their demands will be such at present that the French Directory will not agree to. Nor am I sanguine in my expectations of peace between the French & Austrians, unless the latter, through fear of losing all their Italian dominions, should be willing to agree to French stipulations regarding the Netherlands & the Rhine. The slaughter & devastations occasioned by the present war have been horridly excessive. May a kind & gracious God overrule them for the good of mankind at large\u2014the liberating them more & more from under sacred & civil tyranny! O\u2019 highly favored & blessed United States of America, that have enjoyed the calm & enriching prosperity of peace, while a great part of the world has been convulsed, impoverished, & destroyed! May America ever understand the things that make for her peace & happiness!\n          I hope your Excellency, & your Lady have enjoyed a comfortable share of ease & health. Mrs Gordon joins me in wishing you both every blessing through the decline of life; & future blessedness through the merits of our Lord Jesus, when the present mode of existence is terminated. I remain Your Excellency\u2019s sincere & affectionate Friend & humble Servant\n            William Gordon", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0290", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 17 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n            Philadelphia 17th Jan. 1796\n          Your letters of the 3d & 10th instt are both before me; the last came yesterday, & the first on tuesday.\n          I should be sorry if Davenports disorder should prove fatal to him; it would be a heavy stroke upon his family at any time, and unlucky for me at the present.\n          I am under no concern for the fall which has taken place in the price of flour\u2014that it will be up again, and higher than ever in the spring there is but little doubt\u2014indeed some well informed Merchants declare they should not be surprized to find it at twenty dollars pr Barrel at that season.\n          There can be no question, in my mind that herrings will be at 10/. pr Thousand & Shads at three dollars at least pr hundred for which reason, my advice to you is, not to take less from Mr Smith, or any other who may offer to contract, beforehand.\n          You may manage the fields at Union farm in whatever manner you think best\u2014my great object (more than making crops) is to preserve the land and the mode you have suggested for the ensuing crop, may answer that purpose.\n          I have no objection to your disposing of all the fallen timber to Waggoners that you see no prospect of getting up yourself upon the best terms you can obtain\u2014taking care to prevent, as far as possible, impositions and inconveniences from admitting them within your outer fences. To keep which up, is an object of great importance, and I wish it to be done as far as it is in your power without neglecting things of greater moment. It was\nalways my intention, and is my earnest wish, to get a hedge of the honey locust, or some plant of quick & stubborn growth upon the outer ditch as soon as possible.\n          How does your winter grain stand this open weather? It has been fine for grubbing, and I hope that business has, & is going on well. Have you a prospect of getting all grubbed within the line I laid off the morning I left home? and is it likely you can do any thing towards the New road from the White gates this winter or Spring?\n          As Allison knew that it never was contemplated to bring, or have a married man about the Mansion house as an Overseer, he would be rightly served to be turned of[f]; but as it might be difficult to supply his place at this season I can give no direction about it, but leave the matter to yourself to act as circumstances dictate.\n          It is hardly possible it can be three years since I subscribed to the Salary of Mr Davis\u2014how then can there be two years due when one has been paid? Surely it was not the terms of the Subscription to pay ten pounds at the beginning, and ten pounds at the end of the first year: But you can ascertain this matter by having recourse to the paper\u2014or, Mr Herbert, who was the gentleman that obtained my name to it.\n          It is not want of water, but the great quantity of it that is wasted, that makes the scarcity at the Mill, and this will continue to be the case until the New race is done and all the rotten & weak parts below it are thoroughly repaired\u2014after which, except in very dry summers I do not conceive there will be much cause for complaint. I remain your friend and well wisher\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0291", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 17 January 1796\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n            Mount vernon Jany 17th 1796\n          I Receved your Letter of the 10th Inst. wharein you Say you have not Receved any Letter or the Reports as Usual.\n          I cannot Account for thare not Giting To you, If the post Got In\u2014for I Sent them To the post office In Time by peter and he sais he Delivered them thare.\n          Mr Devenport Is dead he died this Morning. he was taken Sick on the friday week Before. but on the Monday he Seemd to Git better and appeared to be mending till wednesday Night and then he was struck with a Voiling pain In his breast\u2014which Could not be removd. It is an unluckey Circomstance as it hapened at a time whin we had a good head of water and was Giting on with Grinding our wheat but I have put My son In the mill with Ben and have kept her going as well as I Could and Mr Smith the Flour Inspecter has been so kind as to Come down and See that th[e] mill was In good order and assisted In dessing & hanging the stone\u2014and he has Sent Down one of the Deputy Inspectors who he sais Is good millar and Undestands the Business well\u2014and he will remain for some time Till I Can have an oppertunity of Giting a millar. If any should be to be had here I shall only Ingage them for a short Time Till I Can heare from you\u2014I think you will have a better oppertunity of Giting one that will answear your purpose than I Can have here\u2014I had Given Mr Devenport 600 wt of pork at Killing Time\u2014he was to have had some Beef\u2014but that was not deliverd to him\u2014Is Mrs Devenport to keep the pork or what Is to be done with her? Mr Devenport had Receved all his wages and somethi\u27e8ng\u27e9 more\u2014his wife and Children will be In a most Destressed Situation and what will done with them I know not.\n          The price of Flour Is not more than 10 Dollars and I am Told not much sold at that. I am with The Greatest Respect Sir your Humble Servt\n            William Pearce", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0292", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Howson Clark, 18 January 1796\nFrom: Clark, Howson\nTo: Washington, George\n            Halifax, Virginia, January 18th 1796\n          This is the second Letter I have done myself the honor of addressing your Excellency\u2014the distance we are at and the uncertainty of the conveyance of a Letter at so great a distance leads me to fear that the first and perhaps this may miscarry ere it reachs you, this consideration induces me to dispense with part of that elegance and prolixity which in other circumstances I should lay down as a necessary rule; thus much I conceive\u2019d necessary, explanatory of the appearance of this letter.\n          I am extremely sorry my situation is such as to render this mode of solicitation necessary, my other and perhaps indispensible avocation puting it out of my power forming or cultivating connections thro whose influence my interest might be advanced, I assure your Excellency the prospect on my side was gloomy untill the idea originated dictating an immediate correspondence with you whence I confess (and gladly too) that some glimmering of hope and expectation now exists, altho very obscure and faint that hope, contemplating the disadvantages attending my suite; agreable to the common concuring course of human events.\n          but reflecting on your uniform conduct, permit me to observe I hope and flatter myself that you will not dispense on this occasion with that rule of conduct whichever has met the approbation of your fellow citizens, to my injury only.\n          I conceive it quite unnecessary to dilate on this subject, Suffer me to add that should my solicitation meet your approbation, will you Sir be pleased to direct for me to have information thereof particularizing the department which your Excellency allots, as well as all other contingencies relative thereto.\n          With heartfelt emotions do I inform you of the united and undivided applauses, which your Speech to both houses of Congress, obtains, throughout every class of Citizens, the anarchist only excepted, a party very incon[si]derable with us. I hope you will excuse this digression\u2014permit me the honor of Subscribing myself Yo. Mo. Obd. Hbb. Servt\n            Howson Clark", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0293", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Charles Lee, 18 January 1796\nFrom: Lee, Charles\nTo: Washington, George\n            [Philadelphia] 18th Jany 1796\n          Upon the Petition of Robert Randall the Attorney General reports most respectfully to the President of the United States\n          That to attempt to corrupt the intergrity of a member of the legislature in his legislative functions, by offering to him a bribe in money, land or other valuable commodity is an offence\nindictable at common law and most properly cognisable in a court of justice. It is a misdemeanour, bailable, and punishable by fine or imprisonment or both. The interference of the house of representatives upon the ground that their privileges had been invaded, ought not to induce a suspension of legal proceedings because not only it is out of the power of one house of congress to withdraw from the ordinary tribunal of justice, any case pending there and subject to its jurisdiction but in this very instance the lenity of the punishment inflicted by the house of representatives seems to have been produced in a degree from the consideration that Robert Randall was then under prosecution for the same offence before a court of Justice.\n          Although Robert Randall committed the offence wherewith he was charged before the house of representatives yet it was not a breach of their privileges, all of which are enumerated in the constitution, or rest upon the principle of necessity for preserving to either branch of the legislature the power of performing its functions. His behaviour did not violate the former, nor take away the power of legislation, which remained in the house of representatives, to be exercised, notwithstanding his endeavours to swerve them from the line of rectidude. and if he has been improperly or illegally treated by the house of representatives, he ought not for that reason only to be liberated from legal trial and punishment.\n          A Nolle Prosequi may be directed by the President if he shall in his discretion think it meet, but the contrary is advised. All which is humbly submitted.\n            Charles LeeAtty Genl", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0295", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 19 January 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n          The Bearer of this letter is Doctor Bolman whom you have heared of as having made an attempt for the relief of the Marquis la Fayette which very nearly succeeded\u2014The circumstances of this affair, as stated by Doctor Bolman & Mr Huger, son of B. Huger of S[out]h Carolina deceased, who assisted, do real credit to the prudence management and enterprise of the Doctor and shew that he is a man of sense and energy.\n          He appears to have been induced to think that he attempted a service which would strongly recommend him to the favour of this Country; in which idea I have reason to believe that Mr Pinckney among others encouraged him\u2014and as a consequence of it he hopes for some civil employment under our Government\u2014His expectations of what he may begin with are not high\u2014it being principally his object to obtain some present provision in a way which may lead him, if he discovers talents to something\nbetter\u2014He appears to be a man of education\u2014speaks several languages converses sensibly is of polite manners & I dare say has the materials of future advancement.\n          I have not left him unapprised of the difficulties in his way, but he concludes to go to Philadelphia to ascertain what is or is not possible, relying at least on a kind reception from you.\n          He brought me letters from Mr & Mrs Church which speak handsomely of him\u2014I believe they had a chief agency in promoting his undertaking.\n          At his request I give him this letter to you. With respectful & affecte Attachment I have the honor to be Sir Your very obed. ser.\n            P.S. The Doctor is a German.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0296", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 20 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: McHenry, James\n            Philadelphia 20th Jany 1796\n          Let this letter be received with the same friendship and frankness, with which it is written, nothing would add more to the satisfaction this would give me, than your acceptance of the offer I am going to make you.\n          Without further preface then, will you suffer me to nominate you to the office of Secretary of War? That I may give evidence of the candour I have professed above, I shall inform you, that\nfor particular reasons (more fit for an oral than a written communication) this office has been offered to Genl Pinckney of So. Carolina\u2014Colo. Carrington of Virginia\u2014and Govr Howard of Maryland\u2014and that it would now give me sincere pleasure if you would fill it.\n          After making this declaration I can press you no farther\u2014but I press for an immediate answer, as the public service is suffering much for want of a head to the department of War.\n          If you consent to this nomination, prepare to come on as soon as it is made (for the reason just mentioned) altho\u2019 at this season\u2014and in the present state of the Roads\u2014you should not find it convenient to bring Mrs McHenry & your family along with you.\n          Sound, I pray you, and let me know without delay, if Mr Saml Chase would accept a seat on the Supreme Judicial bench of the U. States, made vacant by the resignation of Mr Blair. If his decision is in the affirmative, he will at once perceive the necessity of being here by the first monday (if possible) in next month, at which time that Court is to sit in this city. Altho\u2019 these subjects are, both, of an interesting nature, I will add no more on them at present; but assure you of the sincere friendship, & Affecte regard of\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0297", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Sheed, 20 January 1796\nFrom: Sheed, William\nTo: Washington, George\n            Charleston. State of South CarolinaJanuary 20th 1796\n            Respected Sir\n          Altho the address of an Individual, to the first Character on the Continent of America\u2014and that Individual altogether a Stranger to your Excellency\u2014would by many be deemed presumeing, yet as it is to the feelings of General Washington Only that the following is directed, & for his perusal alone\u2014I venture; and hope for his indulgence Trusting, that the subject of its contents, will plead as my Apology for the liberty I take, should your Excellency deem one Necessary.\n          Long and Painfull has been my conflict before I could reconcile myself to intrude upon your time\u2014Nor should I now\u2014Unless pressed hard by dire Necessity\u2014On your Goodness,\nlanthropy and Humanity, I rest my cause\u2014Sensible from full conviction, that the Unfortunate cannot Approach you without meeting the Ear of Attention\u2014and even relief if not Undeserving.\n          It is by no means pleasing to attempt recommending ones self\u2014but as reduced Gentlemen, seldom can procure former friends to do it for them\u2014I trust to your Benevolence of Heart to forgive; and Venture.\n          Behold Revere\u2019d Sir a Native of the soil on Which he Writes\u2014reduced from Affluence to Indigence\u2014by Misfortune, Disease, and Infirmaties: his Age Fifty three, a Large family to provide for consisting of a Wife and four Children\u2014his profession respectable\u2014tho unable to Attend to it Generaly from Infirmaty\u2014(having been regularly brought up under Doctor Thos Bond Senr late of Philadelphia) & who during the Contest between Brittain and America was one of the first that met with Apointment and speedy Promotion from regimental to Hospital Surgion and for years faithfully discharged the duties of his Station.\n          Such is the man who now Addresses the Saviour of his Country\u2014I was when in the army Independant, the Brittish Invasion distroyed my all. Promises were made me\u2014and I hope for some provisions being made but Alass I hope in vain\u2014When Congress passed an Act to fortify our Seaport towns, I instantly Applied by Letter to our Delegates from this State\u2014Soliciting their Interest for the Apointment of Physician and Surgion to one of the Garrisons, and pointed out to them how much more conducive to the Health of a Garrison to have a Man fully acquainted with the Diseases incident to the Climate\u2014than to have a stranger\u2014and at same time Endeavoured to press upon their Memory the Services of my Father.\n          If either my Letters ever reached them I dare not affirm\u2014but no reply was Ever made Except from the Honorable Wm Smith\u2014who on his return here assured me by Letter\u2014that mine had never reached him and who Generously at same time relieved the Wants of my then suffering Children\u2014It is rather Unfortunate that I cannot convey to you the Commissions and Certificates that I received from diferent Officers at the diferent Appointments\u2014My Papers of every discription were burnt\u2014when Sunsbury was distroyed\u2014and those who could renew the Certificates\u2014are Either dead or Absent. Coll Sumpter\u2014under\nwhome I served as a Regimental Surgion\u2014and Doctor Oliphant the then Director General\u2014under whome I acted as Hospital Surgion, are both Absent from the State\u2014the Inclosed therefore is the only one I am at present able to convey to you, which I procured from Genl Huger a few days since.\n          Having Wrote in vain to others\u2014And being advised to apply to the fountain Head\u2014I venture to Address your Excellency\u2014feeling a ray of hope, that He who Saved his Whole Country\u2014will not refuse to assist in proping up one small branch of it.\n          Frigates are building for the Protection of our Commerce\u2014and altho the Life does not altogether meet my approbation\u2014as it would draw me off from the Educating my Children\u2014Yet would I rather Accept a birth (Professionally) on board one of them than witness as I too frequently do, the wants of my family I have also two Sons (George and Wm) both old enough to be rated as midshipmen\u2014and both desirous of being brought up to the Sea\u2014With Esteem and Veneration I remain\u2014Respected Sir Your Most Obdt Tho Unfortunate Hbl. Servt\n            P.S. should your Excellency favor me with an Answer be pleased to direct to the Care of The Honorable David Ramsay who will safely convey it to me.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0298", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 21 January 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n            Near Baltimore 21 Jany 1796. 9 O\u2019clock P.M.\n          I have this moment received your favour of the 20th, and am truely sensible of the sincerity of your wishes that I should accept of the war office department. On my part I beg you to believe that nothing could give me more pleasure than to be near you for a few years independent of public motives or considerations. I must however pray you to allow me till monday to reflect on the offer and determine whether I can with propriety and as it respects my family venture upon a change of position which by bringing me into public life must necessarily bring with it much care trouble and uneasiness. My inclination is to accept, but I shall be definitive by next post. In the mean while I shall obtain Mr Chases sentiments which shall accompany my letter. With real affection I am D. Sir Your ob. & hble st\n            James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0301", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James Madison, 22 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Madison, James\n          The enclosed letters, with the additional explanation that follows, will bring the case of young Fayette fully to your view.\n          From the receipt of Mr Cabots letter until the latter end of Octr, I had not heard from, or of the young Gentleman. Then, a letter from Colo. Hamilton, to whom as you will see by Mr Cabots letter he had been introduced, informed me that he and his Tutor were in a retired place 20 or 30 miles from the city of New York anxiously hoping that they would soon receive a call from me. In answer to this letter, I expressed to Colo. Hamilton sentiments similar to those which had been communicated to Mr Cabot; but requested him, not only to view the case in its different relations himself but to discover if he could, what might be the opinion of others thereon, and let me know the result. Which amounted to this\u2014that his own opinion, tho\u2019 he hesitated in giving it, inclined to my sending the young Gentn the invitation that was wished\u2014but that this was not the sentiment of those (names not mentioned) with whom he had conversed.\n          Upon the receipt of that letter I wrote to Mr La Fayette on the 22d of Novr and enclosed it to Colo. Hamilton the next day. To the last of which I received the reply of November 26th. From thence I heard nothing further on the subject until the letters of Mr de la Fayette & his tutor, of the 25th of Decr were received. Since which nothing has been said or done in the matter\u2014and I wish to know what you think (considering my public character) I had best do to fulfil the obligations of friendship & my own wishes without involving consequences. Sincerely & Affectionately I remain\u2014Yours\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0302", "content": "Title: Timothy Pickering to Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., 22 January 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Dandridge, Bartholomew Jr.\n          I have this moment recd from Mr Wolcott the inclosed letter to Mr Adet, which this morning I left at Mr Wolcott\u2019s office for his perusal and remarks. He approves of it entirely. I called at Mr Lee\u2019s in the morning for the like purpose, but he was not at home. However, his letter to me (also inclosed) which I received yesterday, shows a concurrence of his opinion in every principle advanced by me. Should the President have leisure to peruse them before evening, and think no alteration necessary, I could send the letter to Mr Adet: otherwise it may be done to-morrow morning.\n          I also inclose a letter from Govr Blount recd this day. Very sincerely yours\n            T. Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0303", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 24 January 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n            Near Baltimore 24 Jany 1796.\n          I resume the answer to your letter of the 20th which I acknowleged the moment after I received it.\n          I cannot say that I have ever experienced so much hesitation between giving way to inclination, and attachment to you personally, and my own interest and ease, as has taken place during the two past days. It is now however all over, and it is right I should confess, that the soothing idea of serving under you, more particularly at this crisis, has effectually and irresistably silenced all opposition. Such then as I am, and with a heart truely devoted to you and the public good, dispose of as you please.\n          I shall commence to-morrow to prepare every thing to facilitate my departure hence, as soon as it is practicable after hearing from you, and in the mean while have obtained Mrs McHenry\u2019s\nconsent to remain here till I can get a house in Philadelphia and the necessary furniture for her reception and accommodation.\n          As to your orders respecting Mr Sam. Chase. Without detaining you with the preliminary matter that indicated to me his mind, it may be sufficient to inform you generally that he will accept, and particularly that he requested me to tell you, that \u201che receives your intention to nominate him to a seat on the supreme judicial bench of the U. States with the utmost gratitude.\u201d He added, \u201cThe President shall never have reason to regret the nomination,\u201d and I beleive it. He agrees to be in Philadelphia by the first monday in next month.\n          Thus Sir you see what you have done. You have made an old veteran very proud and happy, and one not very young to approach the station you have assigned him with fear and trembling; for who hereafter may hope to escape without a wound, whilst there are men to be found who could aim poisoned arrows at yourself. With the most sincere attachment and respect, I am Dear Sir your devoted and most Obt Sert\n            James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0306", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Bushrod Washington, 24 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, Bushrod\nTo: Washington, George\n            Dear Uncle\n          I recd some time ago papers from Mr Keith respecting your Executorship of Colvill\u2019s estate.\n          I shall immediately bring suit in the Court of Chancery in order finally to close that business and to relieve you from embarrassment as to the disposition of the mony on hand. I will thank you to give me the general outlines of the business, and of your wishes, that I may be enabled thereby to frame my Bill.\n          When I was at Mount Vernon last I saw at your Mill a number of Hogs of Mt Guinea breed, and as I have a place well fitted for the raising of them, which would be a great convenience and saving to a person living near an expensive market, I must beg from you enough to get me into Stock\u2014I am so anxious about it that I would send up a Cart all the way to Mount Vernon for them.\n          Nancy desires to be Joined with me in love to my Aunt & yourself. most sincerely wishing you Health I am dear Uncle your truly affect. Nephew\n            B. Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0308", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 25 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n          The letter which accompanies the two parcels of Rice herewith sent, gives all the information I am able to transmit, respecting the cultivation of them: and to which I request you to pay particular attention.\n          As these small things may be laid by, & forgot when the season for sowing or preparing ground for them arrives; and even after sowing them, may be forgotten in the due cultivation of them\u2014It would be proper to avoid the first, to put them in places where they cannot be overlooked\u2014and as a remembrancer of the latter, to note down in your book of reports the time\u2014& place\u2014where & when, they are put into the ground. I am Your friend\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0309", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 26 January 1796\nFrom: Jay, John\nTo: Washington, George\n          the British Ratification of the Treaty not having arrived and consequently the Time for appointing the Commissioners mentioned in it not being come, I have thus long postponed replying to yours of the 21 of last month. It certainly is important that\nthe Commissioners relative to the Debts, and also the captures, be men the best qualified for those places. Probably it would be adviseable to appoint one Lawyer and one merchant for each of them. The capture Cases are to be decided in London. From much that I have heard, and the little I have observed of Mr Higginson of Boston I am induced to think him, as a merchant, the best qualified of any I am acquainted with: and the mass of the captures being from the Eastern & middle States, it perhaps would be most satisfactory that the Commissioners should be from those Countries\u2014with him I should be inclined to join Mr King or Mr Dexter, or perhaps Mr Smith of So. Carolina.\n          For the Debts it seems to me best to take some sensible merchant north of the Potomack, and particularly of Philada, if one of acknowledged weight and character could be found willing to serve\u2014if not, I should think of Col. Wadsworth, or some other like him; and associate with him Judge Paterson or Mr Benson, or Mr Marshall.\n          I am really very much at a Loss about Sir John Sinclair\u2019s Plan \u2014it pleases me and I wish that our Country would offer Bounties for useful Discoveries, wherever made. Perhaps no Inconveniences could arise from recommending such a measure to Congress in general Terms, without having any Reference to Great Britain\u2014but even this I think had better be postponed untill the Treaty Business shall have been dispatched. with perfect Respect Esteem and Attachmt I am Dear Sir your obliged & affectte Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0311", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 26 January 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          I have not found it easy to form a satisfactory judgement of the situation on the Potowmac most eligible for an arsenal. Several places will very well accommodate such an establishment: but an attentive consideration of all the information I am possessed of, leads me to conclude, that at the fork of the Potowmac and Shenandoah the greatest number of advantages will be united. I now beg leave to lay before you the result of my examination and reflections on the subject.\n          It appears that a situation on Conococheague Creek, comprehending about 1200 acres of land, about a mile from its mouth, is very well adapted to all the purposes of such an establishment; and that quantity of land, belonging to several proprietors, may be purchased; the cost of the whole would be about thirty thousand dollars. A grist mill is included on one of the lots. It is probable that half that quantity of land may be left out of the purchase, and thus considerably reduce the first cost. But such an establishment may so enhance the value of the adjacent lands as to render a subsequent sale of any parts thereof not necessary to the works, a profit to the public.\n          Of the sites viewed by Colonel Rochefontaine, none appears to have made on him a more favourable impression than that at the mouth of Antietam: but at that time the sale of the whole\ntract of upwards of eight thousand acres, with all their works, was contemplated by the proprietors, at the price of \u00a340,000. when the whole appropriation for the establishment of arsenals amounted to but \u00a322,125. Now they offer about 700 acres, bounded southwestward about a mile by the potowmac, and for more than a mile (as it must be) on the south & east by Antietam creek, with such a force of water from their dam as would suffice for the public service: for not more than two thirds, and perhaps not more than one half of the stream now turns nine water-wheels. They say the situation is high and healthy; and that about 300 acres of the tract are cleared, where there is an eminence commanding and level. Their works are on the opposite side of the Creek; and as these must have been calculated at a considerable proportion of the whole price, it is probable that the 700 acres, with the right to the stream as proposed, may be purchased for twelve or fifteen thousand dollars. It would doubtless be most eligible to take a situation where no works are erected: for then those which shall be constructed may be calculated precisely for the public objects of the establishments: and until then, the contiguity of their furnace, forge, saw-mill and grist-mill, would be extremely convenient, and greatly facilitate the erection and operations of the public works and manufactories, from their foundation. Except the participating with the proprietors in the water of the Creek, the public works would appear to be detached from all private undertakings.\n          The other situation which has now been considered, is at the confluence of the Potowmac and Shenandoah. Its advantages may be thus represented.\n          1. Taking it for granted that the canal & lock navigation will be effected (for that is the basis of the plan) there may be erected all the necessary water-works, on a never failing stream, even for fifteen wheels, which are perhaps more than double the number that will ever be wanted.\n          2. The water-works will, as stated by Colo. Gilpin, be always secure from freshes; the water having never been known to rise so high as the spot where they may be erected.\n          3. There is a furnace in operation at only two miles distance up the potowmac; and one about sixteen miles below; both yielding iron of a good quality. There is also a bank of iron ore\nabout eight miles up the Shenandoah, on Mr Fairfax\u2019s land, with proper conveniences for works, and wood and water in plenty.\n          4. All sorts of materials and provisions may be brought to the works by the water of the two rivers, which will be navigable thro\u2019 an extensive and fertile country; which must of course render cheap all sorts of supplies.\n          Colo. Rochefontaine mentions the following as disadvantages in the situation.\n          1. The interference of private interests & pursuits with the public works, by means of the canal and lock operations; and the seperation of the works from the storehouses, by the private reservation of the ferry-place.\n          2. The want of room and proper ground on which to erect the barracks, workshops and arsenal, contiguous to the water works: the nearest spot being on the top of the hill, to be ascended with difficulty more than half a mile. And the top of the hill, tho\u2019 level and sufficiently extensive (containing 70 or 80 acres) is worn out & barren, and destitute of wood and water.\n          On this site I have taken an opportunity to converse with Mr Weston, who viewed this place in referrence to the planning of the canal and lock navigation. He considers the hill as not hard to ascend; on the contrary, that a road to the top would be easy to be formed. General Darke speaks of the ascent from the river as gradual, for the whole distance, upwards of half a mile. But Mr Weston supposes there would be some difficulty in getting water; as he conceives the whole point to be a mass of stone. He observed however, that if water were not found by sinking a well, a full supply could be furnished by a forcing machine thro\u2019 pipes from the Shenandoah. This idea of his suggests a remark, that the water thus raised, if thrown into a large reservoir, would be an important security to the buildings in case of fire.\n          The situation of the ferry house, above the level of the flat, obtained by cutting away the rock at the hill side, induces a belief that the flat was deemed unsafe or inconvenient, on account of occasional freshes in the potowmac; consequently that the flat would be an improper site for the public buildings. But setting barracks & dwelling houses aside, which might be placed on the top of the hill, such storehouses as it might be necessary to place below it, might be elevated upon walls raised several feet above\nthe level of the flat. This would be of trifling expence compared with an embankment against the river, which Mr Weston suggested as very practicable.\n          It would doubtless be convenient to have the public works by themselves, detached from all private undertakings, and all intervening private property. The objection of Colonel Rochefontaine on this point would have more force if all the workmen were necessarily to be employed at monthly wages, whether they laboured little or much: but it will probably be found as profitable to the public, as it will be practicable, at the public establishment, to get every species of military manufactures done by the piece. And besides, such parts of the establishment as shall be fixed on the hill will be out of the way of any private interference.\n          A strong objection in Colo. Rochefontaine\u2019s mind seems to have arisen from an idea that troops would be necessary to the establishment of an arsenal; and that if stationed on the top of the hill in question, their situation would be extremely uncomfortable, from the nakedness of the spot, its barrenness, and because destitute of wood & water. But water may be supplied as before mentioned; & fuel & provisions for all the workmen and the small guard which it may be expedient to place there, and all the materials for the manufactures, might doubtless be transported up the hill by one, or at most by two pair of oxen or horses daily employed. The nakedness and barrenness of the land admit of a gradual remedy at no great expence. In respect to the health of the workmen, a matter essential to the success of such an establishment, the elevated situation on the hill promises advantages to countervail many of its inconveniences.\n          It may not be improper for me to add, that in my conversation with Mr Weston, he suggested the idea, that by taking advantage of the descent of the water of the Potowmac, at the rapid commencing about a mile and three quarters above the mouth of the Shenandoah, a fall of fifteen feet may be gained; which would be adequate to all the demands of the establishment for water-works, and render the public works independent of the private undertakings with the waters of the Shenandoah. He says a canal along the bank will be easy to be made, at a moderate expence.\n          One other advantage of this position over all others above the confluence of the Shenandoah may be mentioned\u2014that the latter cannot receive the immediate & full benefit of the supplies by the navigation of the Shenandoah, which Mr Weston observes will extend two hundred miles into a country of uncommon fertility.\n          Governor Johnson\u2019s place, which he tenders to the public, is some miles below the Blue Ridge, and therefore exceptionable. Captain Hill in 1794, remarked, that the Kotocktin is never dry, \u201cbut the land very broken and ragged.\u201d The price is \u00a320,000. which is near the whole sum appropriated for the establishment of arsenals. All which is respectfully submitted\n            Timothy Pickering.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0312", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 26 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Senate\n            [Philadelphia] United StatesJanry 26. 1796.\n            Gentlemen of the Senate,\n          I nominate William Cushing, of Massachusetts, to be Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States\n          Samuel Chase, of Maryland, to be one of the associate Justices of the Supreme Court of the United States; vice John Blair resigned and\n          James McHenry, of Maryland to be Secretary for the Department of War.\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0314", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 27 January 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n            Department of State Jany 27. 1796.\n          The Secretary of State respectfully lays before the President the opinion of the Attorney General, just received, upon the threatened intrusions on Indian Lands as stated in Governor Blount\u2019s letter. He has suggested some amendments which appear important; and which if the President pleases the Secretary of State will communicate to the Committee Who have lately reported a new bill for regulating trade &c. with the Indians. Some amendments have been introduced into the 5th section, at the instance of the Secretary: but the case stated by Govr Blount has led the Attorney General to suggest further and important improvements.\n            Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0315", "content": "Title: From George Washington to George Fitzhugh, 28 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Fitzhugh, George\n            Philadelphia 28th Jan. 1796\n          In answer to your letter of the 14th Instant, I inform you that the price of the land which I have in Gloucester County (Virginia) is Eight hundred pounds\u2014estimating dollars at Six shillings\u2014with interest thereon since the first day of April 1789 to the day on which I shall convey it: this being the precise cost of it to me. One fourth of the money to be paid at the time the Land is conveyed, and the other three fourths in annual payments, with interest until the whole is discharged.\n          The tract contains four hundred Acres; the situation of it, you appear to know; one hundred and five acres of which I am informed (by the Survey thereof) is covered with good white Oak timber. I am Sir Your Very Hble Servt\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0316", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 28 January 1796\nFrom: Knox, Henry\nTo: Washington, George\n          I cannot refrain from trespassing on Your time by expressing to you the perfect satisfaction which the people of New England possess by the operations of the general goverment. The unanimity of the legislature of this state was such as to overbear all dispositions of a disorganizing nature. Had the legislature conceived it proper or constitutional they would have expressed their approbation in the highest degree\u2014But they conceived this would be a two edged sword\u2014Mr Adams the Governor may console himself with his good intentions but he has no credit for them in the opinion of the wise and enlightened part of his Countrym\u27e8en.\u27e9\n          The whole Country from Maryland to New Hampshire inclusively may be considered as a Phalanx of good order, and attachment to the administration of the general Government.\n          A conviction of the excellence of this dispos[i]tion, and the most cordial affection to you, must afford you sensations of satisfaction which are inexpressible; especially after the gloomy threatnings of anarchy which prevailed but in too many places the last summer. May this satisfaction never be clouded for a moment. I am with perfect attachment and respect for you and Mrs Washington in which sentiments Mrs Knox cordially unites Your Obedient Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0317", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 28 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: McHenry, James\n            Philadelphia 28th Jan. 1796\n          Your letters of the 21st & 24th instant have been duly received. The last, in time on tuesday, to give in the nominations of yourself & Mr Chase for the Offices contemplated. The day following they were advised & consented to by the Senate; and the Commissions will be ready for the reception of you both on your arrival in this City. of this be so good as to inform Mr Chase; and, if he is still at Baltimore, to remind him, that monday next is the\nday appointed for the sitting of the Supreme Court; and without him, there is no certainty of a sufficient number of Judges to constitute it.\n          For the reasons assigned in my last to you, and which press more & more every day, I shall look anxiously for your arrival\u2014Always & affectly I am\u2014Yours\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0318", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Burgess Ball, 29 January 1796\nFrom: Ball, Burgess\nTo: Washington, George\n            Bigg Spring near Leesburg [Va.]29th Jany 96\n          By Capt. Clapham a Gent. from our neighbourhood, & friend of mine, I trouble you with a few Lines, to begg the favour of you to send me 3 Bushells of red Clover Seed, with what you may be sending to Alexandria for yourself, as you generally purchase in Philada for yourself\u2014I\u2019ve here been endeavourg to purchase and cannot hear of any, or I wd not thus intrude on your time. I woud also begg the favour of you to send me a Cask of the Chocolate Shells, which Fanny and myself are both very fond of. I thank God! I have again got pretty hearty, and Fanny & Childn are well also\u2014our friends over the ridge are all well, as we heard from them today.\n          Fanny joins in every good Wish for you & Mrs Washington, & I am Dr sir with the utmost Esteem yr mo: Obt servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0319", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Lynchburg, Va., Citizens, 29 January 1796\nFrom: Lynchburg, Virginia, Citizens\nTo: Washington, George\n          We, the Inhabitants of Lynchburg and its Vicinity, convened at the Masons hall in said Town, Beg leave to call your Attention to a subject which we are confident you will not deem unimportant.\n          Your proposal to apply One hundred shares in the James-River Canal Company towards the support of a Seminary of Learning, in such part of Virginia as the Legislature thereof should recommend; and the Resolution of that body, requesting you to bestow it on some Seminary in the upper parts of the State, have lately been made known to us. In this proposal, sir, We behold a new proof of those patriotic virtues, and of that distinguished and active benevolence for which you have been long and eminently conspicuous.\n          The Hero, who bravely rescues his Country from the grasp of a Tyrant, and the Statesman who brings order out of confusion, and erects a Government of Laws on the ruins of anarchy and licentiousness, are unquestionably entitled to honourable and conspicuous places in the temple of fame. It may, however, be doubted, whether the patron of useful learning, the Mecanas, who promotes the diffusion of virtue and of Science, be not justly intitled to as great a share of Glory as either of the former; at least in the United States at the present day; For, in vain have the Liberties and independence of our Country been achieved\u2014in vain have Union, order, and Republican Governments been established; unless, with these precious legacies we also bequeath to posterity, the means of acquiring a due portion of Knowledge and of virtue. And how can this be so effectually secured, as by the establishment of Seminaries, for the cultivation and improvement of the moral and intellectual faculties of the rising and future Generations?\n          Under the Impression of these sentiments, We confess Ourselves Anxiously Solicituous, that the proposed Seminary be established in Our Vicinity. Nor do We think Ourselves actuated by Undue partiality, or local prejudice, when We beg leave to suggest that Lynchburg or the vicinity thereof, is the most Suitable place in the upper part of Virginia, for such an Institution. We are influenced by the following Considerations:\n          1\u2014Our Local Situation. Lynchburg is situated on the South side of James River, One hundred & Twenty miles from Richmond, nearly central in the State; and maintains a more Constant and extensive intercou[r]se with the Western Country, than any other place above that City.\n          2 The Commercial importance of Lynchburg. Its advantages in this respect arise chiefly from its favourable situation, near the head of the James River Navigation; which prevents all possibility of competition, either now or at a future day. It is, and must continue to be, a very considerable emporion of Merchandise, suited to the demands of the people in this and the more Westerly parts of the State; the produce of which must necessarily pass through this channel for Exportation.\n          3 Lynchburg is the chief centre of information, and intelligence in the upper part of Virginia. Its commercial importance has so far attracted the attention of Congress, as to induce them to establish this, as the route of the Mail from Richmond to the Westward altho\u2019 it is not on the great westerly road: here likewise, a cross post arives from Fredericksburg, by the way of Charlottsville &c. In this Town also, (notwithstanding its infancy) a Weekly News paper has been publishd, for nearly four years past; which has obtained an extensive Circulation in the back Country. No other Establishment of this kind exists above Richmond: One at Winchester, and another at Stantown excepted.\n          4\u2014There is a great degree of probability that a Seminary of Learning would become more respectable, and more extensively useful in this place, than in any other that we are acquainted with, in the upper part of Virginia; from the disposition of the people here to promote the establishment of such an institution. As a proof of this, We can with pleasure inform you, that Mr John Lynch, proprietor of an extensive estate in this Town, and Neighbourhood, has entered into an Obligation, to convey to the Trustees of the proposed Seminary, should it be Established here, four hundred & Ten or Twenty acres of Land in the neighbourhood of the Town. In the Course of a few days Subscriptions to the Amount of Twenty two Hundred 56\u2154 Dollars have also been obtained for the same benevolent end; and there is good reason to believe, that the Amount of Subscriptions will soon be much more considerable. It may not be amiss to\nobserve, that the Situation proposed for the Buildings is about a mile from the River, convenient to excellent Springs; and as favourable to the enjoyment of Health as any other in Virginia.\n          5\u2014There is still another consideration to be urged in favour of this place, which, altho important is however, of too delicate a nature to be mentiond by us without some degree of diffidence. In the State of Connecticut, and, we believe, in other of the New England States, where Free Schools are universally established, it is the practice to pay to the several Towns, out of the general Treasury, for the Support of Schools, sums proportion\u2019d to the quota of Taxes paid by each. Were this Rule to have any weight, on the present occasion, We are bold to say, that no other place could hold a competition with Lynchburg; for it is a fact, that, from the trade of this place, arises a very considerable proportion of the funds of the James River Canal Compy; and, in process of time, when the population and improvements of the back country, and consequently the trade of Lynchburg, shall have increased; by far the greater part of those funds may be expected to arise, from the trade carried on by the Inhabitants of this place.\n          Such are the reasons, sir, which induce us to think the Vicinity of Lynchburg a well adapted situation for the proposed Seminary \u2014And, altho\u2019 We have not at present a body corporate, qualified to receive the donation; yet, if We should be so fortunate as to find your opinion Coincides with Ours, We doubt not the concurrence of the Legislature of this State, in promoting so useful an Object, and that they will, at their next session, afford every assistance in their power, to carry your benevolent purposes into effect.\n          But, whatever may be your determination on this subject, We shall rest satisfied with the purity of your intentions, and shall cheerfully acquiesce in a decision, which We are confident will be impartial. Signd, on behalf of the Inhabitants of Lynchburg, on Friday the 29th day of January 1796.\n            Teste Will. Norvell secy\n            John Lynch Chairman", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0320", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 29 January 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n            Department of State January 29. 1796.\n          On the petition of John Etienne Guenet\u2014The Secretary of State respectfully reports to the President of the United States\n          That as soon as he received the petition, he obtained a copy of Mr Guenet\u2019s conviction and enquired into the circumstances of his case, and was thence induced to think him not entitled to the pardon he so earnestly solicits. To be the advocate of Mercy is far more grateful to the heart than to be the minister of rigourous Justice: but the latter applied to individuals is often the extension of mercy to a whole community. And it is not a novel doctrine, that the certainty, much more than the severity of punishment, deters from the commission of crimes. This general principle, which leads to the punctual execution of legal sentences for crimes, can be opposed only by very cogent circumstances extenuating the guilt of the offender. His enquiries respecting the conduct of the prisoner, Mr Guenet, present to the Secretary a different conclusion.\n          Mr Guenet was not the interpreter merely, but the agent in fitting out the ship Jumeaux, and was allowed a commission for his agency. He says that he did not then consider his little efforts as immoral or criminal: Why then did he at midnight aid the pilot boat in transporting the cannon with which that ship was to be illegally armed? That and other circumstances marking the secrecy with which he judged it necessary to conduct every part of the business which would clearly display the object of the equipment, shows a consciousness that he was committing an offence against the laws.\n          On his first examination before the District Judge, he was\nguilty of very culpable prevarication. His conviction was the result of the clearest evidence of his guilt. The offence subjected him to a fine of Five Thousand Dollars, and imprisonment for three years. The Court appear to have considered his poverty & other circumstances of distress, when they sentenced him to pay a fine of only four hundred dollars, & to be imprisoned only one year.\n          This view of the case induces the Secretary respectfully to submit his opinion to the President, that the term of Mr Guenet\u2019s imprisonment ought not to be shortened. At the end of that term the President may find in Mr Guenet\u2019s poverty and the situation of his family, sufficient motives to remit the pecuniary part of his punishment. The year\u2019s imprisonment will expire on the 28th of May next.\n            Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0321", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, 29 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Senate,House of Representatives\n            united States January 29. 1796\n          Gentlemen of the Senate, and of the House of Representatives.\n          In pursuance of the authority vested in the President of the united States by an act of Congress passed the third of March last, to reduce the weight of the copper coin of the united States, whenever he should think it for the benefit of the united States, provided that the reduction should not exceed two pennyweights in each cent, and in the like proportion in a half cent; I have caused the same to be reduced since the twenty seventh of last\nDecember; to wit, one pennyweight and sixteen grains in each cent, and in the like proportion in a half cent; and I have given notice thereof by Proclamation.\n          By the letter of the Judges of the Circuit Court of the united States held at Boston in June last, and the inclosed application of the under Keeper of the Jail at that place, of which copies are herewith transmitted, Congress will perceive the necessity of making a suitable provision for the maintenance of prisoners committed to the Jails of the several States under the authority of the united States.\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0323", "content": "Title: From George Washington to John Page, 30 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Page, John\n          Retaining but an imperfect recollection of the facts that influenced the decision on Mr Guenets petition, I desired the Secretary of State to make particular enquiry into the nature of his\ncase (of the district Judge & others) & report specially to me on the occasion.\n          Enclosed is the result, which I give you the perusal of as a proof of his want of candour, and that every favor consistent with the Laws and the nature of his offence, had been shewn to him; in consideration of his circumstances, by the Court: As also the necessity for example: for indeed you, nor no other, not in the Administration of the government, can form any idea of the plague & vexation it has received from the conduct of these kind of people, & the complaints which have proceeded from them, from one or other, of the Representatives of the Belligerent Powers. When you have read the Enclosed Report, be so good as to return it to Dear Sir Your Obedt Servt\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0325-0001", "content": "Title: Enclosure: Robert Brooke to Timothy Pickering, 16 January 1796\nFrom: Brooke, Robert\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n              Richmond January 16th 1796.\n            I do myself the honor of enclosing to you, a letter from the Vice Consul of the French Republic (resident at Norfolk) complaining of improper purchases making in this State, by the British Consul and his agents; and calling on the Executive of Virginia for their interference to prevent the injury which those operations threaten to the interest of the French Nation.\n            If the Subjects of the enclosed memorial have experienced or are deemed to merit the contemplation of the F\u0153deral Executive, it would be extremely pleasing to that of Virginia, to be immediately informed of the result of such consideration, that they may be enabled to determine whether any and what Agency may, under it, be requisite and necessary on their part; or if governmental interference is proper, whether it ought not to Spring\nfrom the officers of the General revenue, whose action can only be called forth by F\u0153deral authority.\n            Whilst sir, we are ever anxious to do justice to our allies and maintain the national faith, we are equally so to avoid, (in attempting the attainment of those ends) every act which may tend to commit the public peace; and therefore wish to be governed by those rules, with respect to the Acts of foreign nations, which can alone be established by the proper departments of the General Government. And I should be particularly pleased to be informed whether the one stated by Mr Jefferson, in his letter of the 15th of May 1793, to M. Ternant, minister plenipotentiary of France, respecting the purchase of Arms by a French Agent for his nation, is deemed to embrace the cases now stated by Mr Oster; or whether the 24th article of our treaty with France, referred to by him, with the three or four subsequent articles are considered as taking the present subjects of complaint out of that rule. I have the honor to be with the highest respect & esteem your obedt Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0326", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Samuel Chase, 31 January 1796\nFrom: Chase, Samuel\nTo: Washington, George\n            Baltimore Town [Md.] 3[1] Jany 96.Sunday Morn:\n          Last Evening Mr McHenry shewed Me your letter to him, in which You desired him to inform Me, of my Appointment, as one of the Judges of the supreme Court of the united States. This high Mark of your Confidence will be always remembered with Gratitude, and shall never be a Subject of Regret to You. I can promise, Sir, to use my utmost Endeavours to execute so honourable and important an office with Integrity, and Diligence. my impaired Health, rendered very precarious from a gouty Habit, and my advanced age will, I fear, greatly suffer from the fatigue of itinerant Duty.\n          I expect to set off this afternoon, and will come up with all the Expedition the Severity of the weathr, and\n          the badness of the Roads will permit. I have the Honour to be, \u27e8mutilated\u27e9", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0327", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Richard Henderson, 31 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Henderson, Richard\n            Philadelphia 31st Jan. 1796.\n          I hope you will not ascribe to incivility, an omission, which has proceeded from accident, or rather from misconception.\n          Immediately upon the receipt of your letter dated the 26th of Novr it was put into the hands of the Gentleman who temporarily discharged the duties of Secretary of State, with directions to acknowledge the receipt of it, & to inform you that the Executive\nwas pursuing enquiries which were to lead to a final decision on the Site for an Arsenal. Misconceiving the latter direction, & supposing it wd be in time to acknowledge the receipt of your letter after the abovementioned decision was come to, it had, from the multiplicity of business in two offices, which he superintended, escaped his attention until my enquiry on the Subject recalled it to his recollection.\n          I have now (tho\u2019 late) to inform you that another spot will, I believe, be the object of governmental choice: if not, more particular enquiry will be made of you\u2014on what terms the Land &ca offered by you, could be obtained. With esteem I am Sir Your Obedt Hble Servt\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0330", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 31 January 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n          Your letter of the 24th inst. with the reports, came to hand, at the usual time, yesterday. and I am sorry to find by them that sickness is so prevalent among the people. It is occasioned I presume\nby the changeableness of the weather; and will I hope, be carried off by the steady cold which seems to be now setting in.\n          Had your grain been covered with Snow? If not, how does it, and is it likely, to withstand these open frosts?\n          If you cannot get a Miller until the first of June\u2014(I mean who will remain with you until that time)\u2014let me know it, & I will endeavor to send one from hence: but the season will, in a manner, be passed away before one could reach you from hence; for which reason, if you could get a fit character nearer home, it would be better. I hope the loss of Ben will not be added to that of Davenport. Let care be taken of him, & all the rest of the sick.\n          As I am almost as confident as I can be of any thing, that depends upon a bad memory, that it is not three years since I subscribed to a Salary for Mr Davis, I cannot discover upon what ground it is he claims three years payment; unless my subscription anticipated a years payment, of which I have no recollection; but which must certainly be known to Mr Herbert who was the Gentleman that solicited my name to the instrument. I am always willing to pay what I owe\u2014but never that which I do not owe. I wish you well and am yr friend\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0332", "content": "Title: Advertisement, 1 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: \n            Philadelphia, February 1st 1796.\n            TO BE LET, and Possession given in Autumn.\n            The farms appertaining to the Mount Vernon Estate, in Virginia; four in number; adjoining the Mansion house farm. Leases will be given for the term of fourteen years to real farmers of good reputation and none others need apply.\n            THE largest of these, called River farm, contains 1207 acres of\nploughable land; 879 of which are in seven fields, nearly of a size, and under good fences; 212 acres (in one inclosure) are, generally, in a common grass pasture; and 116 acres more, are in five grass lots and an orchard (of the best grafted fruit) all of them contiguous to the dwelling house and barn. On the premises, are a comfortable dwelling house (in which the Overlooker resides) having three rooms below, and one or two above; and old barn (now in use) and a brick one building 60 by 30 feet, besides ends and wings, sufficient for stabling 20 working horses, and as many oxen; and an excellent brick dairy with a fine spring in the middle of it. Thirty black labourers (men and women) being the usual number which have been employed on this farm, are, with their children, warmly lodged, chiefly in houses of their own building. The soil is a loam, more inclined to clay than sand, and with slight dressings yields grain well, particularly wheat. Encompassed on two sides by the river Potomack, and on a third by a navigable creek, the inlets therefrom, in a variety of places, afford an inexaustible fund of rich mud for manure, or compost. The waters abound in a variety of fish and wild fowl; and one or more shad and herring fisheries might be established thereon.\n            Next in size is Union farm (so called from the annexation of two together). This has also seven fields, nearly equal in size, and containing in the aggregate, 841 acres of ploughable land; besides 67 acres of mowable meadow; principally of reclaimed swamps of the richest sort; and four lots of 5 acres each, designated for clover, by the stables. On the premises are a comfortable (though small) dwelling house, in which the Superintendent of the estate resides; with a kitchen and other convenient houses, very pleasantly situated on the river. In the centre of the farm there is a new house with two rooms below, and two above (inhabited by the Overlooker of the farm). Covering of the same kind, and for about the same number of labourers and their families, as at River farm, belong to this; and perhaps one of the best, and most convenient barns of brick in America, for grain (in and out of the straw) and for the accommodation of stock of all kinds, working horses and oxen. The soil of this farm is not unlike the last, but rather more tenacious. There is one excellent shad and herring fishery appertaining thereto, with convenient houses for salting and barrelling them up; and another which has been, and might again be, used to advantage.\nThis farm being bounded by the river and a navigable creek for a considerable extent, abounds as the other does, with the same kind of inlets, and resources of mud; wild fowl, &c.\n            Adjoining to the last-mentioned farm, and at the head of the creek which bounds the same, is Dogue-Run farm; consisting of 517 acres of ploughable land in seven fields, differing but little in size; with 132 acres of mowable grass in several inclosures; part of which being of the richest reclaimed swamps, remain permanently in grass; the other part, is alternately in grass and grain. On the premises are, a new dwelling house occupied by the Overlooker (warm and comfortable though small); with covering for twenty odd black labourers and their families; a new brick barn with an open circular floor to thresh, or tread on, through which the grain passes to a floor below where it is always secure, and ready for winnowing; stables for thirty-odd working horses and oxen adjoin the barn; and covering for other kinds of stock, all entirely new. The soil of this farm is a good loam, rather lighter than those of the preceding.\n            The fourth farm is called Muddy-Hole; and has the same number of fields with the rest; besides four grass lots of five acres each, surrounding the barn and stables: the whole making together 476 acres of ploughable land. The Overlooker\u2019s house is small, and but indifferent; the cover of the labourers is similar to those which have been already mentioned; and sufficient for fifteen or more with their families. The barn (which is of wood), and stables for eight or ten horses, are good. The soil has a greater mixture of sand in it, than either of the other farms, and is of a thinner quality.\n            These four farms with the woodland appertaining to the tract, make altogether about eight thousand acres; the whole of which are inclosed by a post and rail fence and the tide water of the river and creeks. The farms, and every field belonging to them, are as level as a farmer would desire, and without stones or stumps to impede the plough or harrow. They are distant from Alexandria about eight, from the Federal City twelve, and from Georgetown sixteen miles by land, and the same by water; at all of which places there are ready markets, and good prices for every article the farms produce.\n            As these farms are large, and can suit a few only in their present extent, there is a disposition favourable on my part, to\ndivide them into lots of any size, corresponding as nearly as may be with the present fields; many of which are ditched and hedged; provided an association of respectable farmers could agree in the partition; and would erect, at their own expence on those lots that would be separated from the present buildings, such conveniences as would accommodate, and content themselves. As an inducement to them to encounter this expence, and that many, rather than a few industrious farmers may be accommodated thereby, I would add three years to the length of the leases of those lots on which there would be no buildings. It is to be understood however, that the association must be complete before the division of any farm will be made, or a part thereof let. And it is to be further understood, that the agreement for either of these farms as they now are, or if parcelled out, must, if rented at all this year, be entered into before the first of September (August would be still better) because, arrangements, and preparations for the ensuing crops must commence by that time, whether I rent, or retain them in my own occupancy.\n            Mr. William Pearce the Superintendent of that estate, and living thereon, will shew the premises, and give such information as may be required relative to the terms on which they may be obtained: And as there is a sketch of the farms in my possession (in this city) shewing from actual and correct surveys their relative situations, with the figure and contents of each field, grass lot, and meadow ground, from whence ideas more satisfactory than can be formed from an advertisement may be derived, it may be seen on application to my private secretary Mr. Dandridge, and the terms known on which they may be had.\n            If the farms are let, the occupants may be accommodated on just and reasonable terms, in a sale of the stock which is upon the same; consisting of draught horses, oxen, and working mules; black cattle, sheep and hogs; carts, ploughs, (of the best kind) harrows, and every kind of implement, necessary on a farm. And they will be allowed the privilege of taking from the woodland necessary fuel, and timber for repairing fences, &c. under certain restrictions to be agreed on, and inserted in the leases.\n            Besides these farms, which have been in my own occupation, there are smaller lots of arable land adjoining thereto, which may also be had on the terms beforementioned; together with\na merchant mill situated within the general inclosure. This mill works two pair of stones, the pair of which (of the best French burr) are employed in the manufacture of wheat, the other pair, of Cologne, are designated for country work. Evans\u2019s patent machine for hoisting and cooling flour (erected either by himself or brother), rolling screens, fans, bolting cloths, &c. &c. (all worked by water) are complete. The tide flows up to the mill tail, and boats deliver and receive their lading at the door, from whence it is hoisted by water into the garners above. Near the mill is a comfortable house and convenient gardens &c. for the miller; and a commodious shop within 60 yards of them for coopers. If desired, 30 or 40 acres of tillable land may be had with the mill.\n            FOR SALE; the following Lands, viz.\n            On the Ohio River, in four tracts.\n                THE FIRST, Called Round Bottom, is about 15 miles below Wheeling, a little above Captenon, and opposite to Pipe Creek; bounded by the river in a circular form for 2 miles, and 120 poles, containing 587 acres.\n                SECOND, Is the first large bottom below the mouth of the Little Kanhawa, beginning 3 or 4 miles therefrom, and about 12 or 15 miles below Mariatte. Its breadth on the river is 5 miles and 120 poles, and contents 2314\n                THIRD, Is about 20 miles still lower down; being the 4th large bottom on the S.E. side the river, below the Little Kanhawa. It is bounded by the river 3 miles and 52 poles, and is furnished (as I have been informed) with an excellent mill seat, contents 2448\n                FOURTH, Is the next large bottom (on the same side of the river) and a little above the Great Bend thereof; its breadth on the river is 5 miles and 70 poles, and contents 4395\n                Total on the Ohio, S.E. side thereof\n            On the Great Kanhawa, in four tracts.\n                THE FIRST, Is on the West side of the river, beginning within 2 or 3 miles of its confluence with the Ohio; about the same distance from the town of Mount Pleasant, and about 6 or 8 from Galipolis. It borders on the river 17 miles and 51 poles, and contains 10990\n                SECOND, Is on the East side of the river a little higher up and bounded thereby 12 miles and 227 poles, containing 7276\n                THIRD, Is at the conflux of the Kanhawa and Cole Rivers (West side of the former) and in the fork thereof, and bounded by the two rivers 5 miles and 88 poles, contents 2000\n                FOURTH, Is on the East side, nearly opposite to the lastmentioned, 6 miles and 19 poles, contents 3000\n                Total on the Kanhawa\n            As it is not more presumable than it is wished, that all who are inclinable to become purchasers of these lands will themselves, or by agents in whom they can confide, examine them critically; nothing more will be said, relative to them, than that they may be considered as the cream of the country in which they lye, being the richest interval lands on the two rivers, to the extent that has been enumerated; that is, in the aggregate 57 miles. That they were surveyed before any settlements, or grants of land were made therein. That all of them are patented in my name, many years ago, some near 25; and, that the titles to them are indisputable.\n            In addition to the above, the following tracts are for sale also: viz.\n            On the Little Miami, upper side, within a mile of the Ohio, 830 acres.\n            About 7 miles up the said Miami 977\n            And ten miles from the Mouth thereof 1235\n            Total on the little Miami 3051\n            In Kentucky: On the rough branch of Green River, are two tracts adjoining each other, one containing three, the other 2000 acres 5000\n            Of these five last-mentioned tracts I have no other knowledge than what is derived from the reports of the surveyors, made on the premises; some 8, and others 12 and 13 years since; which certify that they are lands of the first quality. The three first are near to, if not adjoining (the river only separating them) the grant made to Judge Syms and others, between the two Miami\u2019s; and being in the neighbourhood of Cincinnati and Fort Washington, cannot, from their situation, (if the quality of the soil is correctly stated) be otherwise than valuable. Those lying on Green River in Kentucky, besides being fertile and well watered, are said to contain an extensive and valuable bank of iron ore; the working of which would be of public utility, as well as private advantage. And moreover, as the population in that part of the\nstate is encreasing rapidly, the value of these lands must increase proportionally.\n            The terms on which all the lands herein offered for sale may be purchased, are\n            One fourth of the cost to be paid when the bargains are concluded, and the conveyances shall be made.\n            The other three-fourths in five years, with interest, annually, and punctually paid.\n            A Mortgage upon the premises, will be taken for securing payment of the unpaid principal sum, at the end of the above term of five years; and unquestionable security for the punctual payment of the interest on the day, in every year that it shall become due, at the place of my residence; or to any agent I may appoint; or to be deposited in such bank, or banks as shall be agreed.\n            As these lands, particularly on the Ohio and Great Kanhawa, are unquestionably among the most valuable on the Western waters; and I am willing to allow time to explore them, I will enter into no contracts for any part of them until the first of September next; but will receive proposals at any time previous thereto. On that day a preference will be given to the person, or persons who shall have made the highest offers; provided they are adequate to the real value of the land, and the terms herein mentioned are strictly entered into, and compliance therewith is secured.\n            The plots, and surveyors reports, of all these lands, may be seen by any who are inclined to become adventurers in the purchase of any, or all of them by applying to Mr. Dandridge.\n              Go. Washington.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0333", "content": "Title: Lease Terms, 1 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: \n            There not being much difference in the quality of the soil of River\u2014Union\u2014and Dogue run farms, the rent of each, by the acre, will be the same. The soil of River farm has, generally, been most productive; but not having the meadow grounds of the other two, it will hardly be esteemed more valuable, or more profitable in future.\n            The Rent of these three farms (in which the meadow grounds at the two latter will be blended with the arable) is a bushel and half of Wheat for each acre contained within the limits of the present fencing or on failure of that crop an equivolent in cash at the market price of the article: the bounds of which shall be correctly described in the leases, and the quantity precisely ascertained by accurate resurveys, for the purpose of rectifying former errors, if any have been committed\u2014or alterations, if any have been occasioned by the removal of fences, since the fields were first established.\n            To the two farms which lye on the River, the Fisheries which now are\u2014have been\u2014or again might be used as such, may be annexed: and may be obtained for the same term of years that the lease is given for the farm adjoining; and at a reasonable Rent. Or they will be let seperately to others, with the priviledge of Ingress, & regress, through the farms.\n            Dogue run farm will comprehend no part of the Mill meadows, or Mill swamp; nor any ground without the present outer fences of the fields, except the Woodland which is (in a manner) encompassed by fields No. 2. 3. 5 & 7, which, if the farm is let in an undivided state, may be Inclosed, merely for a Woodland pasture. In like manner, the other farms are to be circumscribed by the outer fences of the respective fields; and no more land is to be cleared within them, than what is now in use, except by special agreement, & for a certain fixed compensation.\n            Each farm, whether in its present, or divided State, will be supplied with fuel from the Woodland; & with timber for all sorts of farming implements, and for fencing, with the necessary repairs to it; until hedges can be raised; a measure which will be insisted upon as far, and as soon, as it is reasonably practicable.\n            Muddy hole farm being more indifferent than either of the other three, will be let for a quarter of a bushel of Wheat less per acre; but subject in other respects to the same regulations.\n            Tobacco will not be allowed to be cultivated for market, on any of the farms; nor more than a sixth part of the arable suffered to be in Indian Corn, in any year during the term of the leases; and the rotation which is annex\u2019d, or some other not more oppressive to the land, will be insisted upon; as also, that Hogs shall not run at large.\n            If the farms are let in their undivided State, no more buildings will be necessary than what are already on the Premises: but if they are divided, houses in proportion to the number, & size of the lots which will be seperated from those which may contain the present buildings, will be required: the materials for which must be provided by the tenants themselves, except small aids from the Woodland: But as the earth at every farm, & in every part of each farm, is good for Brick or Mudwalls (the last of which are warm & good when judiciously made) they would be recommended; especially the former; as infinitely preferable, more durable, requiring less repairs, and very little if any dearer, than Wood buildings, even in their first cost.\n            Leases will be given conformably to the Advirtisement in the Gazettes; namely, for fourteen yrs if the farms are undivided; and for eighteen years if they are divided, for such lots as will be excluded from the present buildings; with the usual covenants\nfor the security of the Rents; keeping the farms in tenantable repair; Planting fruit trees &ca &ca.\n            The Mill, and every thing appertaining to it, is, at the time of letting, to be critically examined, & must be returned in like good order at the expiration of the Lease.\n            The present farms, as has been mentioned before, may be divided into large, or small lots, so as to suit the convenience of those who may incline to associate; but less than one of the present fields, at any of the farms, except where they are large, ought not to compose a lot: and to lay them off by fields, wd be convenient and desirable, on account of the Ditches, hedges, and fences that are now in use.\n            Although the admission of Slaves with the Tenants will not be absolutely prohibited; It would, nevertheless, be a pleasing circumstance to exclude them; If not entirely, at least in a great degree: To do which, is not among the least inducements for dividing the farms into small lots.\n            Adjoining to River farm, are grounds which now are a common, between the fences of fields No. 1. 2. & 3 and the River; these may become part of those lots, at the rent pr acre of the other part, whether the farm is divided or not; making the River, instead of the present fences, the boundary.\n            For every acre contained in the lease, an apple tree of good grafted fruit is to be planted in the premises, in a regular orchard truly laid out in rows forty feet a part each way. Between wch (also in regular order) rows of peach trees will be required.\n              Go: Washington\n            Rotation referred to\u2014for a farm containing six fields, besides a homestead\u2014or Inclosure for the houses\u2014garden\u2014and yards.\n                Indian corn, with intermediate rows of Potatoes; or any root more certain or useful (if such there be), that will not impede the plough, hoe or harrow in the cultivation of the Corn.\n                Wheat, Rye or Winter Barley, at the option of the Tenant; sown as usual, when the Corn receives its last working.\n                Buck Wheat\u2014Pease\u2014or Pulse\u2014or vegitables of any sort; or partly of all; or any thing else, except grain (that is corn Crops); for which these are preparatory.\n                Oats, or Summer Barley, at the discretion of the Tenant, with Clover if, and when, the ground is in condition to bear it.\n                To remain in Clover for cutting\u2014for feeding\u2014or for both. Or if clover should not be sown\u2014or if sown should not succeed\u2014then, & in that case the field may be filled with any kind of Vetch\u2014Pulse\u2014or Vegitables.\n                To lay uncultivated in pasture, and for the purpose of manuring, for the same round of Crops again.\n            The other fields passing through the same courses will, supposing the rotation to commence in the year 1797 appear in one view by the Plan on the other side\n              Rotation for a Farm of 6 fields\n                Number of the Fields\n                Oats or Barley with Clovr\n                Clovr or Pulse\n                Pasture & Manurg\n                Pasture & Manurg\n                Oats or Barley with Clovr\n                Clover or Pulse\n                Clover or Pulse\n                Pasture & Manurg\n                Oats or Barley with Clovr\n                Oats or Barley with Clovr\n                Clover or Pulse\n                Pasture & Manurg\n                Oats or Barley with Clovr\n                Clover or Pulse\n                Pasture & Manurg\n                Oats or Barley with Clvr\n                Clover or Pulse\n                Pasture & Manurg\n            A Farm containing 100 acres gives Six fields of 16 acres each; and leaves 4 Acres for the Houses, garden & yards. The above plan shews what Crops will be taken from the said farm annually; and these at a very moderate estimate will produce as follow.\n                16 acres in Indian Corn at 12 bushls is 192 bushls a\n                Same in Potatoes\n                16 acs. in Clover, or Vegitables being uncertain\n                Total besides Clover or &c.\n                Rent of 100 acres at a bushel & half of Wheat\n                \u2014or dollar & half pr Acre\n                Remains for the Tenant\n            In England, where taxes & Rents are both high, it is estimated that if every thing which is raised on the farm, will sell for three times the Rent, that the Farmer is in eligable circumstances. One third pays the Rent\u2014another third the taxes, & all other incidental expences of the Farm; and the remaining third is applied to whatever purposes the farmer may chuse. The above principles & proportions apply equally to large, & small Farms.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0336", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Oliver Wolcott, Sr., 1 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver Sr.\n            Philadelphia 1st Feby 1796\n          I have been duly honored with your letter of the 21st Ulto announcing the death of Mr Huntington, late Governor of Connecticut.\n          At the sametime that I regret the loss of so worthy a character, I cannot but feel consoled, that the Administration of the Government of that State has fallen into such good hands as yours. And let me pray you to accept my sincere thanks for the assurance therein given of your readiness to observe the relationship which it bears to the general Government.\n          I feel equally obliged by the expression of your concern for the attacks which have been made upon my Administration. If the enlightened, and virtuous part of the Community will make allowances for my involuntary errors, I will promise they shall have no cause to accuse me of wilful ones. Hoping for the first, I feel no concern on account of the latter.\n          Your Son, as far as my knowledge of him extends, is a very deserving character. He discharges the duties of his Office with integrity and ability; and, I am persuaded, may bid defiance to all those who seem to be continually on the lookout for occasions (without being at the trouble to investigate facts) to arraign the conduct of public Officers. With great esteem & respect I am\u2014Sir Yr Obedt Hble Servt\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0337", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Cushing, 2 February 1796\nFrom: Cushing, William\nTo: Washington, George\n            Philadelphia Feby 2. 1796\n          After the most respectful & grateful acknowledgment of my obligations to you for the appointment you have been pleased to\nmake of me to the office of chief Justice of the united States, and to the hon. the Senate for their advice & consent to the Same; And after Considering the additional Care & duties attending on that important Office, which, I apprehend my infirm & declining state of health unequal to the weight of, I must beg leave to retain the place I have hitherto held, on bench during the little time I may be able, in some measure, to perform the duties of it\u2014and pray that the return of the Commission for the office of chief Justice inclosed, may be accepted\u2014and another person be appointed thereto. I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect, Sir, your most obedient Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0339", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Law, 4 February 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Law, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n          Letter not found: from Thomas Law, 4 Feb. 1796. On 10 Feb., GW wrote to Law: \u201cYesterday\u2019s Mail brought me your letter of the 4th Instant.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0340", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Seven Nations Chiefs, 4 February 1796\nFrom: Chiefs of Seven Nations\nTo: Washington, George\n              Caknawage February the 4\u20141796\n            We hope that the grate Spirit be plsed to so order it that, the Bearers hearof, Sent and Inpowerd by us Chiefs of the Seven Nations and Chief wariers, yong men Women and Children in Councill and all agreed as one, we hope the[y] m[a]y have the plshure of finding you in perfect halth as the[y] leve us at present\n            We are Sencible that your will not think it strang for us to Send our depitues to you as we have Informd you of the reason last fall from the treaty at Fort g\u27e8eorge\u27e9 which our Brother of the state of New york \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 our Brothe Coln Wadsworh sent by you p\u27e8rom\u27e9ised us that they would inform you all that \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 betwixt us at the treaty hald thare.\n            When we parted with our Brothers last faul \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 told us the thought is was not Nesery for so me \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 thare Brothers to Come on Busness\u2014we Co\u27e8mutilated\u27e9 on the matter and Joins with them in opineo\u27e8mutilated\u27e9 that reason have Sent these fore depit\u27e8ues on\u27e9 behalf of us Chiefs of the seven Nation\u27e8s.\u27e9\n            We have put the minds of our harts \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 and the[y] will enfold them to you\u2014\u27e8mutilated\u27e9 our wishes may be taken in to good C\u27e8mutilated\u27e9 and a good path made for Brother and \u27e8mutilated\u27e9en to walk in hearafter.\n            We have no more to Say by way of pen and ink only that we wish for angreement to the Setesfaction of you and us Brothers\u2014through our depitues and Begs it as a Brotherly favour that thay may not want for a comfortble refreshment while with you\u2014So no more but pray for a long and a happy Life for our Grat and honourable Brother Onatagamas Gorge Washington President\u2014of the united States.\n                Garoniatsigowa\n                Ononwarogan\n                Caknawage Chiefs\n                Soteriiosgon\n                Gentaragenra\n                Sonatsiowane\n                anatonnonne\n                gaientatirhon\n                Sgahentowane\n                St Regies Chiefs\n                tharoningethon\n                tionatogena\n                Atihentongo\n                Lake two mountins\n                gaiarawagon", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0341", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Truxtun, 4 February 1796\nFrom: Truxtun, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n            Baltimore 4th February 1796\n          I do myself the honor to address you, in consequence of Seeing a report of the Marine Committee, of the house of Representatives of the United States, for going on with the building and equipment, of only one 44 and one 36 gun frigate\u2014I presume the 44 building at Philadelphia being raised, my friend Captn Barry has no doubt of that being the 44, that you will order to be Compleated.\n          A general and minute Statement, of the materials received in the yard here, for the 36 gun frigate building under my Superintendance (which frigate was this day raised) has been transmitted to the Secretary of war by post, as also a Copy to the Purveyor of public Supplies; this Statement, will Show that we are by far more forward, than the other 36 gun frigate, ordered to be built at New Hampshire, And the white oak timber received long Since and Seasoned, is unquestionably Superior, to any in America, Northward of this Latitude.\n          Should it be your pleasure, to order this 36 Gun frigate to be finished; I shall take a particular pleasure, in exerting my Utmost abilities, to have her Speedily Compleated, and in a way that will do honor to the United States. I have the honor to be Sir, with the greatest respect, and attachment to Your person,\nand our established Constitution, Your very Obedient and very humble Servant\n            Thomas Truxtun", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0342", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Pierre Charles Varl\u00e9, 4 February 1796\nFrom: Varl\u00e9, Pierre Charles\nTo: Washington, George\n            Philadelphia 4 februair [1796]\n          The Subscriber French Engeneer, an habitant of This Country These two years & a half, & who has made The plans of This City, of Newyork, a chart of St Domingue, & has begun a canal in This country, would wish to merit your patronage; The managers of The said canal not being here, he has only his work to recommend him, which he will present to you, if you will do him The honor to See him. he is with respect General your most humble and obedient Sarvent\n            Varl\u00e9 present.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0344", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 6 February 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n            Department of State Feby 6. 1796.Evening.\n          The Secretary of State respectfully lays before the President a letter & inclosure received to-day from the Governor of Virginia, by which it appears that he has given orders to detain the vessels destined to export the horses purchased by the British in Virginia.\n          Seeing the Executive of that state entertains such erroneous ideas on the subject, it seemed to the Secretary expedient to transmit a copy of the answer given Mr Adet on this subject; and to make some remarks on the mistaken light in which they have viewed the 28th article of our commercial treaty with France. The answer draughted by the secretary, with the mode of\nproceeding in transmitting a copy of the letter to Mr Adet, are submitted to the President\u2019s determination, for which the secretary will wait on the President early on Monday, so as to send by that days post, if the President approves.\n          The secretary\u2019s answer to Governor Brookes first letter (which was recd Jany 26th) was sent by post on the 29th.\n            Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0345", "content": "Title: To George Washington from the Vicomte de Rochambeau, 6 February 1796\nFrom: Rochambeau, Donatien-Marie-Joseph de Vimeur, vicomte de\nTo: Washington, George\n            Paris le 18 Pluviose 4e ann\u00e9e de la R[\u00e9publi]queF[ran\u00e7ai]se une et In[divisi]ble. [6 Feb. 1796]\n          J\u2019ai deja eu l\u2019honneur de vous prevenir par ma premiere lettre du havre que j\u2019avois fait passer a Bordeaux la lettre dont vous m\u2019aviez charg\u00e9 pour Le c[itoye]n Secondat Montesquieu et\nque je l\u2019avois recommand\u00e9 particulierement aux autorit\u00e9s constitu\u00e9es.\n          J\u2019ai trouv\u00e9 mon pere bien portant, il habite la Campagne et y mene la vie d\u2019un agriculteur fort occup\u00e9. il a re\u00e7u avec reconnoissance les temoignages honnorables du souvenir que vous avez de lui et des Services qu\u2019il a rendu aux etats unis dont vous m\u2019aviez confi\u00e9 l\u2019expression. et me charge de vous dire combien il S\u2019interessera toujours aux Succ\u00e8s de Son compagnon d\u2019armes. Je suis avec respect Monsieur Votre tr\u00e8s humble et tr\u00e8s obeissant Serviteur\n            Dtn Rochambeau", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0346", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 7 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n            Philadelphia 7th Feby 1796\n          Your letter, begun on the 31st of last month, and ended the 2d of this, came, with the Reports enclosed, duly to hand yesterday; together with the list of Dower Negros which are taken exactly as I wished. I now wish you would forward to me a list of all the remaining Negros on the Estate; distinguishing French\u2019s from the others; & both made out in the manner of the last\u2014giving the ages &ca.\n          After I hear from you again, respecting a Miller, I shall be better able to determine than now, whether to send a Miller from hence or not; especially as, all circumstances considered, it may be found as well to sell the Wheat in grain as to grind it, if the Mill can be rented on Advantages terms before the next Manufacturing season comes on\u2014of which I request you to be particular in your enquiries that I may know the utmost she will Rent for.\n          Let me know in your next (for the Mill report gives no account of it) what quantity of flour is ground: and I should be glad to know as nearly as you can give a guess from what you have already got out of the Straw, the quantity remaining in it. In short I wish to know as nearly as may be conjectured (with certainty\nI am sensible it cannot be) the whole amount of the last years crop, of this article.\n          I never was under any apprehension, from the fall in the price of Wheat or flour in Alexandria, that I had missed the market for mine; and I am more convinced now than ever, that both will be higher than it ever has been. The high bounty given by the British Parliament for the importation of both these articles into that country; the scarcity in Europe generally; and the great demand for the latter in the West Indies; will raise the Market beyond any thing ever known in this country. Wheat at this moment is at 20/ pr Bushel, & flour at fourteen dollars pr Barrel & rising in this City. Keep me advised of the Ale\u27e8x\u27e9andria prices.\n          If you can get a good workman who will be industrious and sober (and not extravagent) it would not only be my wish to have the North end of the Mansion house thoroughly repaired, but every other part of it; with the Pillars of the Piazza-covered ways to the Kitchen & Servants hall, compleatly repaired also, together with the sashes of all the houses where they require it. And I would have Venetian blinds made for the Windows above, on the west side of the house like those below, but to fit better than they do. Or, if the windows are so framed as to permit it, these Venetian blinds would look, & be better on the outside, to open and shut (by means of hinges) like those on the front door, but in a neater Stile. If they are made for the outside above, the same must be below, in order to corrispond; or it would have an odd appearance. In that case the blinds now in use may be worked up. It must be a good workman to execute these several jobs (for I would have none of them done in a bungling manner)\u2014and that they may come lighter to me, as jobs of this sort must be undertaken at day wages, let Isaac & th\u27e8e\u27e9 boy assist, under his direction, in slitting out and trying up the stuff from the rough.\n          The check which Doctr Stuart has given you on the Bank of Alexandria you may lay out in Stock (or shares) therein. I do not know the cost of a share, but if it wants a little aid to complete a share, or certain number of Shares, and you have the means of affording it, I would have you do so. But tell Doctr Stuart when you see him, that I apprehend he is under a mistake in charging me three years hire of Peter. The last time he paid me money (which cannot be three years ago) the hire of Peter was allowed\nfor therein; and a receipt taken for the same; or else my memory has failed me exceedingly. This however, if an error, can easily be rectified by having recourse to that settlement or to the receipts.\n          If Mrs Davenport means to remove to Norfolk, you may aid her with a little money to do so; to the amount of three, four or five pounds, according to circumstances.\n          You will perceive by the enclosed advertisement, which is intended more as an essay to see whether I can rent my farms upon the terms I shall probably transmit you in my next letter, than from any sanguine expectation of doing it, what my wishes and views are: which may be summed up in a few words\u2014namely\u2014to make the remainder of my days, if I should live to finish my present term of Service, as free from care and trouble as possible; to reduce my income (be it little or much) to a certainty; and to see my farms in the hands of a number of Tenants (if it can be accomplished agreeably to my publication) who are professed farmers, who understand and will cultivate them in the manner most approved in England, with allowance for the differences of climate.\n          I shall, if I have time, give you in my next, as mentioned above, the terms on which I will let my farms. In the meantime, I repeat, that I have little expectation that any considerable change will take place in the system of my affairs at Mount Vernon in the course of next year\u2014or if there should, that it will make any difference with respect to yourself; as your services and my inclination to employ you, will be as great, and as essential to carry it into effect as to superintend them in their present state. My wish is to get associations of farmers from the old countries, who know how (from experience & necessity) to keep the land in an improving state rather than the slovenly ones of this, who think (generally) of nothing else, but to work a field as long as it will bear any thing, and until it is run into gullies & ruined; & then at another; without affording either any aid. To obtain such associations from abroad I do not think very improbable; because the Newspaper which will contain my advertisement and make the matter known at least in England Scotland & Ireland, & because the emigrants from all those Countries have been, & will continue to be, very great; perhaps more so when Peace takes place than now.\n          Request the Printer in Alexandria to insert in his paper the enclosed Advertisement three different times with an interval of a fortnight between each\u2014Let the \u27e8illegible\u27e9 each time appear in the paper. And if yo\u27e8u\u27e9 have not already done it, answer the enquiri\u27e8es\u27e9 respecting Rents &ca as desired. I wish you well and am yr fr\u27e8iend\u27e9\n            Go: Washington\n            P.S. I hope you have recovered of yr Rheumatic complaint.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0347", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 7 February 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n          Letter not found: from William Pearce, 7 Feb. 1796. On 21 Feb., GW wrote Pearce: \u201cSince my last to you, I have received your letters of the 7th & 14th Instant.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0349", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gabriel Jones, 8 February 1796\nFrom: Jones, Gabriel\nTo: Washington, George\n            Rockingham County [Va.] Febry 8th 96\n          The only Apology I can make for the presumption of breaking in upon the most weighty affairs of Government, is, that the enclosed is of a publick nature, and comes from a Gentleman whose veracity I have a good opinion of, tho\u2019 highly interested in the event of the subject he treats of. As to myself it is the reverse, faithfully assureing you, that I have not an inch of Land in the County of Augusta, or a shilling of property in the town of Staunton, but believeing the account Mr Steuart gives as far as my knowledge extends pretty accurate & just, I have been prevailed upon to forward it. Let me add, should your goodness condescend to take notice of their request, so far as they may partake of your bounty, you cannot bestow it upon men more deserving, I mean in a political sence. They are almost to a man staunch friends to the present Goverment, a late instance warrants this Assertion. When the Western expedition was annou[n]ced, they raised in & about Staunton, a troop of Horse, a Company of Riffle men, & another of Light infantry, and what added to the glorious sight, All Volunteer\u2019s not a draft among them, marching in Uniform, in Short Sir, there is but one Scabby sheep among the whole flock, one that is largely indebted to British Merchants, and who would involve his Country in a War in hopes to extinguish his Debt, At present he is one of the Representatives of the County of Augusta, his name (William Bowyer) may be seen in the Majority of that ever memorable never to be forgotten Session of 95. permit me Great Sir, to join my Sincere wishes with the Good throughout the world, for your preservation and happiness, & to be with the most perfect esteem & duty, one of the most Affectionate of yr humble Servants\n            Gabriel Jones", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0352", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Elizabeth Parke Custis, 10 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Custis, Elizabeth Parke\n            My dear Betsey\n            Philadelphia 10th Feby 1796\n          I have obeyed your injunction in not acknowledging the receipt of your letter of the first instant until I should hear from Mr Law. This happened yesterday\u2014I therefore proceed to assure you\u2014if Mr Law is the man of your choice, of wch there can be no doubt, as he has merits to engage your affections, and you have declared that he has not only done so, but that you find, after a careful examination of your heart, you cannot be happy without him\u2014that your alliance with him meets my approbation. Yes, Betsey, and this approbation is accompanied with my fervent wishes that you may be as happy in this important event as your most sanguine imagination has ever presented to your view. Along with these wishes, I bestow on you my choicest blessings.\n          Nothing contained in your letter\u2014in Mr Laws\u2014or in any other from our friends intimate when you are to taste the sweets of Matrimony\u2014I therefore call upon you, who have more honesty than disguise, to give me the details. Nay more, that you will relate all your feelings to me on this occasion: or as a Quaker would say \u201call the workings of the spirit within.\u201d\n          This, I have a right to expect in return for my blessing, so promptly bestowed, after you had concealed the matter from me so long. Being entitled therefore to this confidence, and to a compliance with my requests, I shall look forward to the fulfilment of it.\n          If after marriage Mr Laws business should call him to this City, the same room which Mr Peter & your sister occupied will accomodate you two; and it will be equally at your service.\n          You know how much I love you\u2014how much I have been gratified by your attentions to those things which you had reason to believe were grateful to my feelings. And having no doubt of your continuing the same conduct, as the effect will be pleasing to me, and unattended with any disadvantage to yourself\u2014I shall remain with the sincerest friendship, & the most Affectionate regard always yours\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0353", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Thomas Law, 10 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Law, Thomas\n            Philadelphia 10th Feb. 1796.\n          Yesterday\u2019s Mail brought me your letter of the 4th Instant; and that of Saturday announced from Miss Custis herself, the Union which is pending between you. No intimation of this event, from any quarter, having been communicated to us before, it may well be supposed that it was a matter of Surprize.\n          This being premised, I have only to add, that as the parties most interested are agreed, my approbation, in which Mrs Washington unites, is cordially given; accompanied with best wishes that both of you may be supremely happy in the Alliance. I must however, tho\u2019 it is no immediate concern of mine\u2014be permitted to hope, as the young lady is in her non-age, that preliminary measures has been, or will be arranged with her Mother & Guardian, before the Nuptials are solemnized.\n          We shall hope that your fortunes (if not before) will, by this event, be fixed in America; for it would be a heart rending circumstance, if you should seperate Eliza from her friends in this country. Whether the marriage is to take place soon, or late, we have no data to judge from but be it as it will, if you should bring her to Philadelphia, we invite you both to this house. With very great esteem and regard I am\u2014Sir Your Obedt Hble Servant\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0354", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 10 February 1796\nFrom: Lear, Tobias\nTo: Washington, George\n            Washington [D.C.] Feby 10th 1796\n          I had the honor of writing to you on the 8th inst. Since which I have been favored with a letter from Colo. Pickering, covering the agreement of the prop[r]ietors of the land at the junction of the Potomac & Shanandoah, and requesting my agency to\ncomplete the purchase for the United States, if it can now be done. Tomorrow I set off for that quarter, and shall endeavor to close the business upon the terms proposed. I shall act with as much address as I am master of to accomplish the object; but I confess, as the time has elapsed, I have doubts whether it can be touched now upon the first offer.\n          Mrs Lear & the children unite in respectful & affectionate remembrance to Mrs Washington & yourself & love to Mr Dandridge & Washington. With every respectful & affectionate feeling, I am, My dear Sir, Your obliged friend\n            Tobias Lear", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0355", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Bushrod Washington, 10 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Washington, Bushrod\n            [Philadelphia] 10th Feby 1796\n          You are very welcome to a part of the Guinea\u2014or Chinese Hogs which you saw at my Mill\u2014But it is necessary to inform you, that except the Sow which you might have seen in a pen & her Pigs wch were running about it, I have none others, unmixed at that place. This happens from their running at large.\n          There is a Vessel now up (in this Port) for Norfolk & Richmond; to Sail, by adverti\u27e8s\u27e9ement, on Saturday. I mean therefore to send to \u27e8a\u27e9 farm some distance from hence where mine came from, and if a supply can be had\u2014and the Skipper will take them in\u2014to send you half a dozen, or what I can get of the true breed, by her which will be much more convenient for you than sending to Mount Vernon for them.\n          If I succeed, I will write you again on this subject. yours Affectly\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0356", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Bushrod Washington, 10 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Washington, Bushrod\n            Philadelphia 10th Feb. 1796.\n          On Saturday last I received your letter of the 24th Ulto.\n          Presuming that Mr Keith has sent you all the attested accounts of my Executorship of the Estate of Colo. Thomas Colvill, in which the affairs of John Colvill his brother (to whom he was Executor) were involved\u2014together with the Will of the former and the claims originating from an extraordinary devise which you will find therein, I am at a loss to know what more you require than is contained in those papers when you wish I would give you the general outlines of the business, that you may be enabled thereby to frame the Bill.\n          I have no Papers now by me except copies of the accounts which have been settled with the Court, authentic copies of wch I presume you have received; and having very little knowledge in Chancery proceeding I hardly know where to begin or end a story that may subserve your purpose. I will, however, attempt to detail some fac\u27e8ts\u27e9 relative to the business which has involved me in much unexpected vexation & trouble in order that I may, as soon as possible, be rid of it.\n          You must know then that in a vis\u27e8it\u27e9 to Colo. Thos Colvill on his deathbed (an unlucky one I have ever since deemed it) he informed me, that he had appointed me one of his Exrs\u2014I told him that my numerous engagements of a similar kind, would not permit me to discharge the duties of one. He urged\u2014I refused\u2014he pressed again, assuring me that al\u27e8l\u27e9 the trouble would be taken off my hands by his wife & Mr Jno. West (who married his niec\u27e8e)\u27e9 that he wished only for my name\u2014and that I would now & then only enquire how matter\u27e8s\u27e9 were conducting by those just named. Unwilling to make the last moments of a worthy & respectable character uneasy, I yielded to his request; and having so done I would not be worse than my word and\nqualified accordingly: and, when it suited my convenience, occasionally assisted; until my services were required by the County in wch I lived, to attend the State Conventions at Williamsburgh & Richmond\u2014by these Conventions to attend the Congresses which were held in this City\u2014and by the latter to take the command of the Army which, and my continuance with the latter comprehended a period of more than ten years. At the expiration of which and my return to private life, I found that Mrs Colvill & Jno. West were both dead\u2014that no final settlement of the Estate had been made. That every thing relative to it was enveloped in darkness\u2014and that, instead of being a mere auxiliary in the business I was compelled, for my own security, to become the sole Actor.\n          Under these circumstances, and a knowledge of Mr Keiths fitness, from being a professional man; from having been once a Clerk of a Court, & well acquainted with proceedings of this kind; and from his knowledge of incidents; I employed him to collect, and digest the materials, which were to be found among the papers of Mrs Colvill & West into a final Settlement: & nothing short of his assiduity & knowledge of the subject, could have exhibited the accounts in the manner they have appeared. Sure I am, that I could not have framed the accounts from the materials which were exhibited.\n          I ought to have mentioned in an earlier part of this detail, that one of the first acts of the Executors was to publish in the English papers an extract of the Will of Colo. Thos Colvill making the nearest relations of his mother, his residuary Legatees. This bequest & publication raised a host of claimants, one of whom, through the medium of General Howe, while he commanded the B: forces in America demanded in an open impudent & imperious letter which passed through the hands of that officer the restitution of an Estate worth Forty thousand pd which he said was the Surplus of the Estate & due to him\u2014altho the very clause under which he claimed expressed a doubt of \u27e8their\u27e9 being any surplus at all.\n          If this concise account is inadequate to the purposes of a Bill, I pray you to propound specific questions, and they sha\u27e8ll\u27e9 receive immediate answers. My objects are simply these; 1st, as the surplus, after paying the debts & Legacies, is not precisely ascertained; after many lawsuits, & muc\u27e8h\u27e9 difficulty; I wish that\nthose who have the best right to it, may receive the benefit of the donations\u2014and 2d, that I may know where, & in what manner to dispose of the money; not being willing to hold it myself, nor to have any thing to do with those who may claim it. I accordingly, as I have been advised, turn the whole matter over to the Chancellor; who at the same time that he affords relief to me, will do Justice to others. With sincere friendship, I am Your affectionate Uncle\n            Go: Washington\n            P.S. Since writing the aforegoing letter, in a Trunk which I do not often look into, I found the bundle of Papers herewith sent. Papers which I thought were in the Possession of Mr Keith, and doubted not, had been forwarded to you. Among them, you will find a special rect to George Chalmers; who had Collected on acct of a Bond from Sidney George \u00a3100 Maryland money, & thought he had paid it to Mr Jno. West; but from a removal, or absence from Papers, could not prove it tho\u2019 by his guarding against the consequences, it makes precaution on my part necessary in the final exhibition of my \u27e8trust\u27e9 lest, in my own person, I become liable for what the Estate of Colvill ought to pay.\n            When you have got all the information which the papers now forwarded can give you, return such as may be useful to me, and let the others, if necessary, remain in the Chancery. Yours as before\n              Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0359", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Edward Carrington, 12 February 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Carrington, Edward\n          Letter not found: to Edward Carrington, 12 Feb. 1796. On 24 Feb., Carrington wrote GW: \u201cI have been honored with your favor of the 12th Instant.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0360", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James Madison, 12 February 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          Mr Madison presents his respectful compliments to the President of the United States, with a letter from Arthur Cambell Esqr. which an accompanying letter to Mr M. requests him to deliver to the President. Mr Cambell makes a further request of Mr M. to make any explanations that may be necessary. Mr M. is not sensible that he possesses any local or other knowledge that can elucidate the proposition, as it is intimated in the letter to\nhim. But if the President should think it proper for Mr M. to wait on him, he will with pleasure do so, at any time the President may please to signify.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0361", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 12 February 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          The Secretary of State has the honor to lay before the President the translations of two letters from Mr Skjoldebrand at Algiers to Colo. Humphreys, part of the packet received with the treaty.\n          Also the draught of a letter to Mrs Bradford, which if approved, the Secretary will send by to-morrow\u2019s post.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0364", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Thomas Lewis, 13 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lewis, Thomas\n            Philadelphia 13th Feb. 1796\n          You will perceive by the enclosed notification, one of which I request the favor of you to cause to be posted up in some public place (secure from weather) at Mount Pleasant that I am disposed to sell all the lands I hold on the Western Waters.\n          Will you permit me to ask, what you conceive those Lands most within your knowledge would sell for, by the acre, or tract; on the credit which is proposed to be allowed. If you are disposed to give me your opinion on this head let me request your answer by the Post\u2014all other modes of conveyance are uncertain\u2014I am Sir Your Obedt Hble Servt\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0366", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 13 February 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n            Philadelphia 13 Febry 1796.\n          Without pursuing any official form, (with which I cannot say I am yet acquainted), I take the liberty to submit the thoughts that have occurred to me on reading the letters you were pleased to put into my hands on saturday last.\n          Were you to conform to the dictates of friendship and receive publicly into your family the son of Mr La Fayette, it might be productive of certain political inconveniences, resulting from the relation between the U.S. and France; and as connected with a certain party in both countries. There it might be employed, as in all likelihood it would be here, to strengthen impressions against this government that have been industriously, and in some parts of the union, not unsuccessfully disseminated. Inasmuch therefore, as the state of things in France may not have acquired sufficient stability to bear the experiment, nor the public mind here been every where sufficiently disabused to appreciate motives, it may be questioned, whether at this juncture it is adviseable to incur a risk that may be avoided, without, perhaps, intrenching upon the duties of friendship, or withholding from the young Fayette the kind offices of a protector.\n          It is true, Sir, that were you to do openly what may be done privately, the act would instantaniously meet the approbation of every man of sensibility: nay it is probable, that it might force into silence the perturbed and factious spirits of the day; but the probability also is, that the silence of the latter would only continue till an oppertunity should present, to convert an act of\nhigh generosity and friendship into an insidious and political crime.\n          To take therefore from the factious in both countries the power to disturb either by this means, it would seem expedient that young Fayette\u2019s reception should be private, and your kindness to him for the present flow in the same channel.\n          It may be asked. Does the duties of friendship impose upon you an open and avowed expression of sympathy and assistance? As to the extent of your assistance, that being relative to your own property must depend upon yourself. As to the mode of bestowing or conveying it, that being relative to your public character, must be conformable to the obligations it imposes. As to the duties of friendship, can they authorise or require from you any thing which might injure your country or uselessly commit the United States?\n          In another point of view which approaches the real merits of the case, it may be fairly doubted whether the U.S. through their President, can without cause of offence to France, publicly receive, and acknowlege himself, the protector of the son of a man under a positive or implied proscription. A doubt in such a case calls at least for the exercise of prudence and caution.\n          On the other hand it may be said, that, inasmuch as the son has not been considered criminal by any decree of that government, and is besides a citizen of the U.S. no cause of offence could be given by his being publicly received and acknowleged.\n          And may it not also be said, that in a case circumstanced like the present, where the public notice and protection presumed is so evidently the result of humanity to a forlorn and helpless child, and when such notice and protection can neither injure nor be intended to injure France, that therefore France could not rightfully nor on rational ground be offended.\n          But there is a fact which strikes me as of weight and which cannot be thrown out of view in examining this question. If the young Fayette obtained his passport by concealing who he was from the authority having power to grant it, he must be considered as a fugitive from France, or one who would not have been suffered to leave the kingdom had he made himself known. As such then, though he could not be reclaimed by France, yet he might be proscribed while publicly noticed and protected by\nyou. Perhaps too such a reception of him, by being artfully managed and represented might induce such a misfortune.\n          Upon the whole then, will it not be the safest course and the least subject to embarrassing circumstances as it respects the public, the youth and his connexions, to receive him in a private way and remove him to a distance from you, till such time as a different situation of things may authorise a different line of conduct and proceeding.\n          Is it possible that I can have written with such seeming coldness where the suffering and exiled son of Fayette is the subject: that I who would share with his father my fortune should be obliged by the imperious situation of things to advise that your goodness to his son should flow for a while in secret and unseen.\n          But, Sir, I think I perceive in his letters and those of Mr Frestels, in the reluctance shewn to embrace the course of education you have proposed, and in the suggestion of a reserved communication that required a personal interview, that his visit to this country has chiefly for its object to implore you to take some steps for the release of his father. It is a mission that might readily occur to his mother who it seems is gone to Vienna to solicit the Emperor, and must have been preconcerted in the hope that the person chosen, from his age and other circumstances was the best fitted to act impressively on your feelings, and thereby remove any political obstacle to a diplomatic application.\n          If this conjecture should be founded, your sensibility is devoted to a severe trial on his arrival, as well as the poor youths, should you be of opinion that the reasons that render a private reception of him proper and necessary apply with still greater force against the particular object presumed to be contemplated.\n          I inclose the several papers you intrusted me with and have the honour to be with the most sincere respect Sir your most obt Servt\n            James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0368", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Rufus Putnam, 13 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Putnam, Rufus\n            Philadelphia 13th Feby 1796\n          You will perceive by the enclosed, that I am disposed to sell the land I possess on the Western Waters\u2014and on what terms. Let me request the favor of you therefore, to cause these notifications to be pasted up in some conspicuous part of the Town of Mariatte, and elsewhere lower down (but above Cincinnati) in such a manner as to give them a reasonable chance of remaining there, & legible, for sometime. And I would take it kind of you, to let me know what you think the Lands lying on the Ohio, Great Kanhawa and little Miame would, or ought to sell for on the credit which is proposed to be given, by the Acre, or Tract, as they are described; which I believe is correct. With esteem & regard, I am\u2014Dear Sir Your Obedient Hble Ser.\n            Go: Washington\n            P.S. Upon second thoughts, I pray you to request some friend of yours at Cincinnati to set up one or two of the Advertisements at that place.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0369", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 14 February 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n          Letter not found: from William Pearce, 14 Feb. 1796. On 21 Feb., GW wrote Pearce: \u201cSince my last to you, I have received your letters of the 7th & 14th Instant.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0370", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Bushrod Washington, 14 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Washington, Bushrod\n            Philadelphia 14th Feb. 1796.\n          Since my last to you, relative to my Executorship of Colo. Colvills Estate, I sent, as therein mentioned, to the person from whom I had purchased the Guinea, or Chinese Hogs which you saw at my Mill, and obtained two; a boar & a sow; the latter with Pig. He informed me, however, that they were not of the whole blood; but, in his opinion, improved from their mixture with another breed of Hogs which he has. They were accompanied with as much Corn as would serve them\u2014plentifully\u2014on the passage; and ordered immediately to the Vessel, which was on the point of Sailing, & did sail yesterday; and a receipt to be taken therefor & brought to me. This not being received until to day, I was surprised, (but too late to remonstrate agt it) at the freight that is charged. But it is the way we are imposed upon here, in almost every thing. My love to Mrs Washington, in wch your aunt joins. I am always, and Affectly Yours\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0371", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James Anderson (of Scotland), 15 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Anderson, James,Scotland, of\n            Philadelphia 15th Feb: 1796\n          Since my last to you in December, I have been favored with your letter of the 15th of September, on the subject of Iron Bridges.\n          The invention is ingenious, and if it answers as well in practice as it appears in theory it will be a valuable and useful discovery. I see no reason why it should not, as the construction is upon mathematical principles. I should fear, however, if you have not been correct in your estimates and comparison, that a bridge formed of Iron must cost more than one of Stone\u2014both having the same span. But as I have had no leizure to examine the matter accurately, this may be a very erroneous opinion of mine.\n          The Mechanics of these United States, are in the practice of building bridges of Wood, that are not exceeded any where, for span of Arch, convenience, appearance and cheapness. One lately erected over Piscataqua River in the State of New Hampshire, has a span of 244 feet in one arch\u2014but the want of durability in bridges built of such perishable materials, is a serious objection to them.\n          The more I have revolved the plan of renting the farms of my Mount Vernon Estate, the more inclined I am to the measure\u2014and that my intention in this respect, as well as in the sale of certain lands which I possess on the Western Waters, may be known, I have caused a notification (as you will perceive by the enclosed hand-bills wch are copies thereof) to be inserted in some of the public gazettes of this country; but without much expectation of carrying it into effect the ensuing year.\n          Having taken the liberty of bringing you acquainted with the preliminary steps to this measure, I now offer the plan in a more advanced stage; but upon the same principle, and under the same restrictions contained in my last\u2014namely\u2014that it may be communicated (not by way of public notification, nor at all, if it militates in any degree with the declared policy of the British government) to any m\u27e8a\u27e9n, or set of men, who you may have reason to believe are disposed to migrate to this country; and would wish to avail themselves of the information therein contained.\n          As it relates to tenants, I should wish for peaceable,\nindustrious & skilful farmers; to obtain such, I must resort to some other country than this\u2014where little knowledge of husbandry is possessed, and less care used in the practice of it, to keep the land from a ruinous course. For many reasons, the similarity of language not least, I would prefer those of yours.\n          Numbers come daily, by individual families; and more from habit than any advantage I ever could discover, arrive at this City and New York. But Individuals who have not capitols equal to my undivided farms, would not answr my views, forasmuch as it would not be convenient, or agreeable to me, to let a part, and retain a part of the same farm. With esteem and regard I am\u2014Sir Your Obliged & Very Hble Ser.\n            Go: Washington\n            P.S. Enclosed also, are the terms on which I propose to give Leases.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0373", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 15 February 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n            Department of State Feby 15. 1796.\n          The Secretary of State respectfully lays before the President of the United States, the letter of resignation of Mr Benjamin Joy, late consul of the United States at Calcutta; and the recommendations of Mr William James Miller late of Philadelphia, now established at Calcutta, as a fit person to succeed Mr Joy in the Consulate.\n          In addition to the testimonies inclosed in favour of Mr Miller, the Secretary begs leave to say, that John Miller, a respectable merchant in Philadelphia, & brother of the gentleman recommended for Consul, has shown him divers letters from his brother, by which it appears that he has become a partner in a very respectable mercantile house at Calcutta; which implies\nclearly a permission from the local government to reside there. And the 13th article of the treaty with Great Britain declares that without such permission no citizen of the United States is to be considered as entitled to such residence. By the 16th article, before a consul can act as such, he is to be approved by the party to whom he is sent: if then any person whom the President shall be pleased with the advice and consent of the Senate to appoint Consul at Calcutta, shall be so approved, it would seem that Mr Joy\u2019s objections to the appointment of a British subject would be superceded: for Mr Miller appears already to be well received by the officers of the Government in India as well as by the body of merchants. Mr Miller\u2019s standing as an American citizen was of about ten years before his departure for India. His letters mark him as a man of business, correctness and good sense. These observations are respectfully submitted.\n            Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0374", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 15 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Senate\n            Gentlemen of the Senate\n            United States February 15. 1796\n          Herewith I transmit, for your consideration and Advice, a Treaty of peace and Amity concluded on the fifth day of last September, by Joseph Donaldson Junior on the part of the United States, with the Dey of Algiers for himself his Divan and subjects.\n          The instructions and other necessary papers relative to this negociation are also sent herewith, for the information of the Senate.\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0375", "content": "Title: Yundt & Brown to Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., 16 February 1796\nFrom: Yundt & Brown\nTo: Dandridge, Bartholomew Jr.\n            Balt[imore] February 16th 1796.\n          Your favor of the 12th we had the honor of receiving on the 13th instant. The advertisement is inserted in this day\u2019s paper, which is transmitted to the President, (to save postage) by mail. Our charge is twenty five dollars, (being a dollar per square for the three first insertions) which you will please to pay Mr Young, bookseller, to whom we shall give an order. It was our desire to make it less expensive by inserting it in smaller types, but not\nhaving a sufficiency, at the time, un\u27e8oc\u27e9cupied, we had no choice. To make a small ame\u27e8nds\u27e9 we will let the intervals between the publications be sh\u27e8orter\u27e9 and insert it oftener than you have required. With great respect, we are, Sir, your obt Hum. Serts\n            Yundt & Brown\n            P.S. The copy you transmitted us we preserved entire, and had stuck up in a public place in Mr Evans\u2019s Tavern.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0376", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Robert Lewis, 17 February 1796\nFrom: Lewis, Robert\nTo: Washington, George\n            Spring Hill Fauquier County [Va.]February 17th 1796\n          I have delayed answering your last letter until I had made another collection and examined more attentively into the exact situation of your property over the ridge and in this County\u2014I felecitate myself extremely when I inform you that my success in the collection business has been far more favorable than my most sanguin expectations cou\u2019d have supposed\u2014Out of fifty or sixty tenants not more than three or four are delinquent for the last year, and those principally where the leases have expired, and where the rents have been raised.\n          You desire to be informed whether the covenants in the leases have been strictly complied with, or not\u2014I can venture to\naffirm with truth, that scarcely one in ten of the old Leases have been fullfilled in respect to improvements, notwithstanding the frequent and pressing importunities on my part to make them comply. In consequence of this, I have (as you suggested it wou\u2019d be proper) put most of the life Leases into the hands of a Lawyer, with an exact Memorandom of every article in which the Tenants are deficient, and do expect that he will advise me in what manner it will be most proper to proceed.\n          Mr Muse, (when he gave me all the papers in his hands belonging to you); advised me strongly not to issue ejectments, as Colo. Simm of Alexandria had given his opinion the Leases were badly drawn, and that it wou\u2019d be attended with cost to no purpose; as the tenants wou\u2019d\u2014and cou\u2019d hold their Leases for the term stipulated therein; supposing the covenants not strictly complied with, or not complied with at all. I have by stratagem got repossessed of two lotts in Frederick, and one very valuable one in Berkley; and hope by the next fall to get possession of one more in Berkley, full as valuable as the three former.\n          In my last letter I mentioned, that I had rented the Frederick lotts at thirty five pounds per annum, but neglected saying that it was to be obtained for each lott seperately; which occasioned a misunderstanding with you (i.e.) whether the sum of thirty five pounds was for both lotts taken together or seperately. I have since confirmed the bargain as you consent to it, and have put the Tenants in possession. One of the lotts contains 200 acres & the other 175. The Berkley lott contains 200 acres\u2014Rent \u00a330 per annum for three years and forty pounds for the three succeeding years when the Lease expires.\n          The number of acres in each lott is mentioned for your information, and as you requested\u2014My next Rental (which will be complete some time in the month of May next) will state the precise number of acres in each lott\u2014The reason of postponing the completion of the Rental until May is on account of five replevy bonds which will be due at April Court, and which, without some unforeseen accident will certainly be paid. I wish to pay all the money at once, and not leave any deficiency on the rental as has been the practice before my time, and since; owing to the rascallity of the Sheriffs, who will not pay me the money after it has been obtained from the tenants by a legal process: and I am as frequently obliged to travel thro the same process\nin order to get from them what they have so easily got from the tenants.\n          Before I conclude, it will be necessary to inform you that owing to the neglect of Mr Muse in not searching your lines in the County of Berkley, thirty five or forty acres of your prime reserve land has been cut down, for the use of the Estate of my deceased Cousin\u2014Thornton Washington. It appears from my Uncle Samuel Washingtons Will, that his son Thornton was previledged to cut as much timber off that part of his land now owned by my Cousin Laurence as will keep his Plantation in repair during the life of the said Thornton\u2014But instead of cutting the timber off Laurence Washingtons Estate as the Will directs, it has been taken off your reserve land altogether. Lawrence has the land in possession without knowing his lines and has always supposed it his. If agreeable, I will rent out the open land, (as its under a good fence,) with a strict injunction on the part of the tenant not to make use of any timber whatever, farther than is sufficient for a good warm cabbin\u2014A Rent of three or four pounds annually may be obtained which will be some little addition to the amount of the rental, and can be of no disservice to the land. I shall wait for your instructions.\n          I am much at a loss what to do with your land on Deep-run, as I cannot rent it at what I conceive to be its value: In fact, it is so extremely poor that little, or no profit whatever, can be derived from it by cultivation\u2014Four pounds a hundred has been thought too high by all who have been to see it; and I do really believe out of the thousand acres, which is in the tract, that not more than three or four hundred acres of arable Land can be found.\n          Those who want it, I believe, mean to make a profit from it by sawing the pines, there being some extremely large lieing on the run. If you desire it, I will lay it off into two hundred acres lotts and do the best I can with it; altho\u2019, I conceive, the timber wou\u2019d sell for considerably more than the Land\u2014If a situation cou\u2019d be purchased for a saw-Mill (and I am told there are several two or three Miles below) It wou\u2019d add considerably to the value of the Land\u2014I have never asked more than four pounds per hundred acres for the Land and still have never been able to procure tenants without previledging them to sell the timber in there clearings. I wish to have an answer to this letter as\nsoon as you can find leisure, and also to know when it will be in your power to visit Mount Vernon, as I must see you, whenever it happens\u2014I was much disappointed in not seeing you when last in, and a severe indisposition prevented my going a second time to Mount Vernon.\n          Mrs Lewis joins in offering our best regards to you and my Aunt: and in the interim I remain your dutifull and much Obliged nephew\n            Robt Lewis", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0377", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Harriot Washington, 17 February 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Washington, Harriot\n          Letter not found: to Harriot Washington, 17 Feb. 1796. On 26 Feb., Harriot Washington wrote GW: \u201cI now take up my pen to answer my dear and Honord Uncle\u2019s letter of February 17th.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0378", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Arthur Campbell, 18 February 1796\nFrom: Campbell, Arthur\nTo: Washington, George\n          Bearing in mind your polite invitation that you would consider it as a mark of personal attention to continue my communications to the Executive of the United States on subjects relating to the Western Country.\n          The proceedings of the Convention lately met at Knoxville will no doubt reach you in a short time.\u2014And it will be found\nof moment to the interests of the Union that Congress take sufficient time to deliberate on so important a subject.\n          Objections in detail might now be put down to the Instrument called a Constitution. However it may be satisfactory for the present to hint, that there ought to be an article in the Constitution recognizing the right of the United States to dispose of the lands occupied by the Indians, and also the vacant lands within the limits prescribed by the Treaty of Holstein.\n          The Convention was called in haste and sat a very short time. From the mode the people have been enumerated, it is probable that the numbers have been much exaggerated. A delay of one or two years more of being admited as a Member of Union, may disappoint a few aspiring Spirits; but it will be found to accord with the interest and safety of the people.\n          The present begining will be useful, it will arouse the Citizens to a full examination of the subject, which will add to their Stock of knowlege, a Treasure they need almost as much as that of Gold.\n          I am Sir with great Respect Your Obedient servant\n            Arthur Campbell", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0379", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 18 February 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n            Department of State Feby 18. 1796.\n          The Secretary of State has the honor to request the approbation of the President of the United States, of the purchase of copper made by the Director of the mint, agreeably to the inclosed account, amounting to three thousand two hundred & fifty one dollars & seven cents\u2014being nearly 2\u00bd cents per pound cheaper than the preceeding purchase.\n            Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0381", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Jabez Bowen, 20 February 1796\nFrom: Bowen, Jabez\nTo: Washington, George\n            Philadelphia Febr. 20 1796\n          The principal design of my Visit to this City at this time was to endevour to make a settlement of a Cannon Contract subsisting between the Ud States & The Owners of the Furnace Hope (of which I am one) I have had a Meeting of the Heads of the Departments but find no Incouragement from them. The contract is made and must be finished by somebody, as it particularly belongs to the Department of War. the now Secretary wishes some Time to examin into the situation of the Business. while this is delayed the Business of the Contract is partly suspended and the Stock consuming in the Furnace for other purposes which ought to be appropriated to fullfill the Contract with Government.\n          \u2019Tis with the greatest Reluctance that I intrude on you at this Bussey Time but knowing your desire that Justice should be Established in general and in particular to all who make Contracts under the Government of which you are the Head, I have presumed to make this application Requesting that you would signify to the Secretary at War and the other Heads of the Departments your Desire that this (to me) preplexing Business might be brot to some Just and Equitable Conclusion. I Remain Sir. with the highest Esteeme Your Exellencies most Obedient Servant\n            Jabez Bowen", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0382", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the Earl of Buchan, 20 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Buchan, David Steuart Erskine, Earl of\n            Philadelphia 20th Feb: 1796\n          Having seen several persons from the vicinity of your estate of Dryburgh Abbey, with your Lordship\u2019s certificates of their honest and orderly deportment; (one or two of whom I have employed, and found deserving the charecter) I take the liberty of troubling Your Lordship with the perusal of the enclosed annunciation of a design, wch I have had in contemplation two or three years, but lately only have resolved to carry it into execution.\n          I accompany the information My Lord, with an unequivocal declaration that, it is not my intention to invite Emigrants\u2014even if there be no prohibitary act of your Government opposed to it. My sole object is, if there are persons on the move, who may incline to associate and become tenants on such a plan as I offer, that being apprised of the measure, they may decide how far their views would be accomodated by it.\n          The staple produce of the part of the country in which my Mount Vernon estate lyes, being Wheat, I mean to fix the Rent in that article, as most convenient and equitable for both Landlord & tenant; and I set it at a bushel and half for every acre contained in the lease; which will be all arable, with the priviledges detailed in the printed notification. In failure of a crop of this article, the Rent may be discharged in cash, at the price it bears in the Market.\n          I have but little expectation I own, of maturing this plan so as to carry it into full effect next year; nor would I wish to do it with the slovenly farmers of this country, if I had a well founded hope of obtaining this class of Men from any other (particularly from Great Britain) where husbandry is well understood, and the language similar.\n          Having had occasion lately, to write to Doctr Anderson (of Cotfield) on other matters, I have detailed my plan much more at large than I chose to trouble your Lordship with; and have sent him a sketch of the Farms, with their relative situation to each other, and divisions into fields, Lanes lots &ca; from whence an idea, more accurate than can be formed from the printed\nnotification, might be had; but it is not my wish that any man, or set of men, should engage without first, by themselves or Agents, competently qualified & instructed, viewing the premises and judging for themselves.\n          I pray your Lordship to present me in respectful terms, in which Mrs Washington unites, to Lady Buchan; and that you will be persuaded of the respect and consideration with which I have the honor to be Your Lordships Most Obedient & Hble Servt\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0383", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Cooper, 20 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Cooper, William\n            Saturday 20th Feby 1796\n          The lands which I hold on, or near the Mohawk river, are in Partnership with Mr Clinton (late Govr of New York) who has had, & continues still to have (by a Power of Attorney) the disposal of them.\n          It is not in my power to inform you at what price he has lately sold any\u2014but of this you can easily be informed by a line to that Gentleman. Or if you desire it, I will write to him myself on the subject. I am Yr Obedt Sert\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0384", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Thomas Pinckney, 20 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pinckney, Thomas\n            Philadelphia 20th Feb. 1796\n          Permit me to intrust the enclosed dispatches to your care, and to request that they may be forwarded agreeably to their directions; but by private conveyances, rather than by the mail; as I am not disposed to saddle those Gentlemen with the Postage.\n          Having come to the resolutions which are implied in the enclosed printed notification, I take the liberty of transmitting them to you; for no other purpose, believe me, than merely to put it in your power to say (if enquiries should be made of you) for lands to be rented in the vicinity of the Federal city, or to be sold, that you are possessed of information that may merit attention.\n          As Wheat is the Staple commodity of the part of the country in which my Mount Vernon estate lies, I mean to fix the rent in that article; and to ask a bushel and half for every acre of arable land in the lease (giving the priviledges contained in the printed publication) to be discharged in failure of that Crop, in Cash, at the price it bears in the market.\n          I have very little expectation of accomplishing the Renting part of my plan for next year; nor would I attempt it at all, with the slovenly farmers of this country, if there was a tolerable well grounded hope of getting them from any other; where husbandry is better understood, and more rationally practiced. With great esteem & regard I am\u2014Dear Sir Your Obedt & Affecte\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0386", "content": "Title: From George Washington to John Sinclair, 20 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Sinclair, John\n            Philadelphia 20th Feby 1796\n          When I last had the honor of writing to you, I had hopes\u2014tho\u2019 I must confess they were not of the most sanguine sort\u2014that I should have been enabled \u2019ere this, to have given you a more satisfactory account of the business you had been pleased to commit to me, than will be conveyed in this letter.\n          Doubts having arisen, from peculiar calls on the Treasury of this country for money (occasioned by the expences of our Wars with the Indians\u2014the redemption of our captives at Algiers\u2014obtaining peace with that Regency & Morocco\u2014together with other demands in addition to the ordinary expenditures of\ngovernment) that funds with difficulty would be provided to answer them, without imposing additional taxes\u2014a measure wished to be avoided\u2014I was restrained (after consulting one or two influencial members of the Legislature) from introducing your plan for a contribution: and under these circumstances\u2014I avoided communicating the \u201cExtracts from the minutes of the proceedings of the Board of Agriculture, respecting Mr Elkingtons mode of draining, &ca\u201d except to one gentleman only; in whom I had entire confidence, and who I knew was always disposed to promote measures of utility. These being the grounds of my proceeding, I shall hope, altho your expectations may be disappointed, you will receive the information as an evidence of my candour.\n          Agreeably to your desire I have put the \u201cOut lines of the 15th Chapter of the proposed general report from the Board of Agriculture, on the subject of Manures,\u201d into the hands of one of the most judicious farmers within my reach; and when his observations thereon are received, they shall be transmitted to you. I wish my own engagements would allow me time to attend, more than I do, to these agreeable, and useful pursuits; but having been absent from what I consider my proper home (except on short occasional visits) for more than Seven years; and having entered into my 65th year\u2014a period which requires tranquillity and ease\u2014I have come to a determination to lease the farms of my Mount Vernon Estate, except the Mansion house farm, & a graizing one 3 miles off; which I shall retain in my own occupation\u2014for amusement, whilst life & health is dispensed to me. And as many farmers from your country have emigrated to this, and many more, according to their accounts, desirous of following, if they knew beforehand, where and on what terms they could fix themselves compactly in a healthy & populous country; I have taken the liberty to enclose you the copy of a notification which I have published in some of the Gazettes of the United States; that in case any farmers answering the descriptions therein contained are about to transplant themselves, to whom you might be inclined to give the information, that you may have it in your power to do so. But let me entreat you, Sir, to believe, that I have no wish to its promulgation farther than I have declared. that I have no intention to invite emigrants, even if there are no restrictive acts against it; and if there be, that I am opposed to it altogether.\n          As Wheat is the staple produce of that part of the country in which this estate lyes, I shall fix the rent therein, at a bushel & half for every acre of arable land contained within the lease; to be discharged, in case of failure of that crop, at the price the article bears in the market. Two or three years ago I sent Mr Young a sketch of these farms, with all the fields, meads & lots, with their relative situations, laid down from actual Surveys.\n          I have but little expectation that arrangements will be made by the time limitted, for giving possession of the farms next year; nor should I wish to do it with such unskilful farmers as ours, if there was a prospect of obtaining them from any other country where husbandry was better understood, & more advantageously practiced. It is time however to conclude, for I feel ashamed at having employed so much of it, in matters interesting to myself only; & I shall do it with assurances as sincere as they are warm of being\u2014Sir Your Most Obedt & Obliged Se\u27e8rt\u27e9\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0388", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 21 February 1796\nFrom: Knox, Henry\nTo: Washington, George\n          I have been requested by several respectable characters in this place, to name for your consideraton Christopher Gore Esqr. of this vicinity as a suitable character for one of the Commissioners to repair to Great Britain in pursuance of the late treaty. I before\ntook the liberty of suggesting his name upon another occasion, and to express my conviction, of his fitness, for high confidential public employment. He has evinced his abilities by several well written peices in favor of the government. His fortune is handsome. His manners remarkably engaging, and his integrity unquestionable. He has no children and therefore would I am well persuaded have no objection to the mission alluded to.\n          Mr Parsons of Newbury port has also been suggested as a very suitable character to adjust matters within the United States in conformity to the treaty. His knowledge and talents are of the first class.\n          I have also been requested to name Mr Sullivan the Attorney General of this State as a Commissioner for ascertaining the St Croix river. He has written a history of the district of Maine in which this subject is somewhat discussed.\n          I have named these Gentlemen with less diffidence than I otherwise should have done had I not known your desire of swelling your list of candidates with characters who may be thought even by others, of possessing the requisite qualities.\n          Mrs Knox unites with me in presenting ourselves affectionately to your and Mrs Washingtons remembrance. And I am my dear sir with perfect respect and attachmt Your obedient Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0390", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 21 February 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n          Letter not found: from William Pearce, 21 Feb. 1796. On 28 Feb., GW wrote Pearce: \u201cYour letter of the 21st instt with the Reports of the preceeding week came to my hands yesterday.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0391", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Jeremiah Wadsworth, 21 February 1796\nFrom: Wadsworth, Jeremiah\nTo: Washington, George\n          Your favor of the 11th instant came duly to hand the Advertisement you inclosed will be published as you directed. I will pay the Printer and transmit his account to Mr Trumbull I am glad you are not in imediate want of a Narragunset Horse as it is not possible to get one at any time\u2014when I do find one that is a good one you may depend on having him\u2014it is very rare to find a Bay one I did not send a note with the Salmon because it was in charge of a Gentleman who I expected would deliver it himselfe Mrs Wadsworth & Miss W. return with great cordiality your compliments. this state never was so tranquil as at present\u2014and I do not believe they ever were so prosperous\u2014but we are prone to anticipate evils. I am often asked if it be true\nthat you will not suffer your selfe to be again chosen President (for so it is rumoured) I can only reply that I am utterly ignorant of your intentions permit me to assure you, you never had such an entire and universal influence in this state as at this moment\u2014and when I express my own wishes, that you continue in office: I am confident I express those of all this state. I will not except one Hundred I have no wishes no hopes (let who will preside) for my selfe or friends, but I fear a change will endanger the peace & properity of this Country\u2014I do not believe I should have taken the liberty to mention this subject to you, tho personally very anxious about it, but seeing as I do allmost every body\u2014and finding one wish, one sentiment\u2014in the whole circle of my acquaintance\u2014in this & the neighboring states I could not forbear\u2014you will forgive this liberty. I never have nor ever will flatter or deceive you and what ever you may de[c]ide on\u2014or whatever an ungreatfull world may say\u2014be assured of my unalterable esteem & attachment\u2014and that I am with great respect & esteem Dear Sir Your Hum. Svt\n            Jere. Wadsworth", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0392", "content": "Title: George Washington\u2019s Notes on the Treaty with Spain, 22\u201326 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: \n            Treaty with Spain\u2014signed 27th Oct. 1795\n            II. Boundary\u2014Northermost part of the 31st degree\u2014thence by an East line to the Middle of the River Apalachecola\u2014Down the middle of d[itt]o to its junction with the flint River\u2014thence by a straight line to the head of St Mary\u2019s\u2014And down the middle thereof to the Atlantic.\n            All Troops to be drawn from the Territory of the other party within 6 months after ratifications are exchanged.\n            III. Comrs & Surveyors, one of each, on each side, to meet at the Natchez before the expiration of 6 months from the Ratification; to run & mark the above boundary\u2014Their proceedings to be considered as part of the Treaty or Convention.\n            These Surveys to be accompanied by Guards equally furnished\u2014the whole to be a joint expence.\n            IV The Western boundary between Spain & the U.S., is the Middle of the Channel of the Mississipi from the Northern boundary of the sd states to the completion of the 31st degree as above.\n            \u201cAnd his Catholic Majesty has likewise agreed that the navigation of the said River in its whole breadth from its source to the Ocean shall be free only to his subjects and the Citizens of the U.S., unless he should extend this priviledge to the subjects of other Powers by special Convention.\u201d\n            V. Peace & harmony to be maintained betwn the Indns\u2014both parties oblige themselves \u201cexpressly to restrain by force, all hostilities on the part of the Indn Nations living within their boundary: So that Spain will not suffer her Indns to attack the Citizens of the U.S. nor the Indns Inhabiting their territory: Nor will the U.S. permit these last men[tione]d Inds to commence hostilities agt the subjts of his Cath: M. or his Indns in any manner whatsoever.\u201d\n            No Treaty (but for Peace) with each others Indians\u2014but the trade to be open, & mutually benificial to each.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0393", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Contee Hanson, 22 February 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Hanson, Alexander Contee\nTo: Washington, George\n          Letter not found: from Alexander Contee Hanson, 22 Feb. 1796. On 7 March, GW wrote Hanson: \u201cYour letter of the 22d Ulto has been duly received.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0395", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 23 February 1796\nFrom: Lear, Tobias\nTo: Washington, George\n            Charlestown [Va.; now Jefferson County, W.Va.]Feby 23d 1796\n          I have the pleasure to inform you that I yesterday closed the bargain, on account of the United States, for the two tracts of land at the junction of the Rivers Potomac and Shanandoah, for the sums which the proprieters proposed to sell them last fall, and with some circumstances respecting the Reservations on the ferry tract, more advantageous to the public than were then proposed. I set off for home tomorrow and will immediately on my arrival there communicate the particulars relative to this business.\n          Whenever the United States commence their operations on this spot, the agency of some person well acquainted with the best mode of managing and conducting water to advantage in so large a stream as the Shanandoah will probably be wanting, Colo. Bull, with whom you are acquainted, has desired that you may be informed of his readiness to render services in this way, should his attention be required; and the experience which he has had in matters of this kind relative to dams, Races &c. will, in all probability, be useful. I have therefore taken the liberty of mentioning the circumstance to you, that the public may avail themselves of his services should they be required. With sentiments of the purest respect & attachment, I have the honor to be, my dear sir, Your Affectionate friend & obliged servant\n            Tobias Lear", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0396", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Nicholson, 23 February 1796\nFrom: Nicholson, John\nTo: Washington, George\n            Philada February 23d 1796\n          I take the liberty of sending the inclosed to your Excellency. The store which it refers to was opened yesterday to which time it was for several days postponed in order that it might take place on a day so much respected by this Country.\n          The institution hath been brought to its present state\nprincipally on my support, and is owned by me save an interest of one third which is possessed by the principal artist in this business.\n          It is my intention that every article of the concern shall be of american manufacture: in the case of the prints the plates have been and will be engraved and the paper for them made here The printing whether plain or in color done by us also, as well as the frames &Ca, the other articles will also be of American materials & Manufacture.\n          The day that matured such a plan so as to open as we have done may be considered as the Birth day of several elegant and useful Arts and manufactures in the united states.\n          The introduction of useful arts and manufactures in this Country I am sure cannot fail to meet your favor and patronage, and I beg leave to ask it in behalf of this concern. I am with the greatest respect sir your most Obedt very humble servant\n            Jno. Nicholson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0397", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 23 February 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n            Department of State February 23 1796\n          The Secretary of State respectfully requests the President of the United States to grant his order on the Secretary of the Treasury, to pay to the Secretary of State fourteen hundred and ninety eight dollars and eighty four cents to enable him to take up a bill of exchange dated August 11th 1795, drawn by Fisher & Darrell of Antigua on Thomas Fitzsimons Esqr. Chairman of the Committee of merchants in Philadelphia, on account of the\nexpences attending the copying and authenticating of the proceedings of the Court of vice Admiralty of Antigua on the property of the Citizens of the United States, captured and carried in there under the orders of the 6th of November 1793, the said sum having been advanced by the bank of the United States, in payment of the said bill, during the President\u2019s absence from the seat of Government.\n            Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0398", "content": "Title: Augustine Jaquelin Smith to Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., 23 February 1796\nFrom: Smith, Augustine Jaquelin\nTo: Dandridge, Bartholomew Jr.\n            Alexandria [Va.] Feby 23d 1796\n          The President of the United States in his advertisement of sundry lands has referred persons desirous of becoming purchasers to you for information. I should be glad to know whether his Lands on the Kanhawa are as yet undisposed of, what are the prices of the several tracts, & whether the whole taken together would not be sold on lower terms than separately Your answer sir may perhaps lead to further negotiation. I am sir yr obt servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0399", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Edward Carrington, 24 February 1796\nFrom: Carrington, Edward\nTo: Washington, George\n          I have been honored with your favor of the 12th Instant, and with Sincere pleasure, complied with your request in getting your advertisement inserted in Davis\u2019s paper, it having much the most extensive circulation of any published here, or elsewhere in this State. The enclosed paper contains the first publication, and it is to be repeated twice, with intervals of a fortnight each, agreeably to your request. when the work is compleated, I will pay for it, & communicate to you the cost.\n          With real pleasure I feel myself confident in the propriety of informing you, that the public mind in Virginia, was never more tranquil than at present\u2014the fever of the late session of our Assembly, has not been communicated to the Country; indeed it had, in a great degree, abated before the members dispersed. I think myself warranted in saying that the people do not approve of the violent & petulant measures of the Assembly, because, in several instances, public meetings have declared a decided disapprobation, & in no instance have I heared of an approving meeting, which furnishes strong evidence of an inability to obtain, even, one. In truth, the perturbation in this State was never such while the ratification of the Treaty on your part was depending, as appeared from the meetings\u2014these meetings, in most instances, were but thinly attended\u2014that said to be a general one of this City, was held while I was out of Town, but I was well informed it did not amount to one hundred persons\u2014the meeting published as of the County of Gloucester, under the signatures of Mr Page & others, is said to have been of the same complection, of which the members from there were so confident, that they voted, on the questions brought forward in the Legislature, in direct opposition to the alledged sentiments of the County. it is believed that the next election will effect a change of the Congressional Member from that district, on account of the violence of opinions inculcated, on that occasion, by the present one. In a former letter I took the liberty of predicting that an evidence of the mass of the people being less violent than was asserted, would be discovered in the failure of our Zealots in getting their signatures to certain printed papers,\nsent through the Country, almost by Horse loads, as Copies of a petition to Congress on the subject of the Treaty. I think that this prediction is verified\u2014I have not observed that more than 15 or 20 have been presented to Congress as from this State, and believe a publication of the numbers to each, would in the whole, make but an insignificant appearance.\n          That the public mind is now at ease on the subject of the Treaty may, in my opinion be concluded from the usual mode of enquiry as to its ratification on the part of G.B.\u2014these enquiries have not of late, been frequently attended with expressions unfriendly to such ratification.\n          I fear you will think me tedious in my details, but your object being information, & not merely my opinions, I feel it incumbent on me to give you, as far as within my power, the facts & circumstances, from whence my conclusions are drawn.\n          Suffer me to partake with you in the satisfaction arising to every truly patriotic mind, from the temperate & just Sentiments which have lately flowed from many of the State legislatures. these events are the more animating as they manifest, under the various conflicts of the day, an eventual Stability in those principles, on which the existence of the American, and all other free governments, depends. I have the Honor to be with unalterable attachment Dear Sir your Most Obedt servt\n            Ed. Carrington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0400", "content": "Title: To George Washington from David Stuart, 25 February 1796\nFrom: Stuart, David\nTo: Washington, George\n          I recieved your favor of the 7th in due course of the Post\u2014I have attentively considered your plan for farming your lands out\u2014You will I expect find it difficult to meet with such large associations\u2014It will certainly be a very fortunate event for the country if you should: for from the immense trouble and small profits from lands and negroes, the disposition is gaining ground fast in this State among the Proprietors of such property, to get released from their slaves at least\u2014If your plan should succeed, it will give rise to many similar attempts\u2014The increasing population, and consequent increased value of lands, seems to furnish a hope that we may at no very distant period, derive a comfortable support from the rent of our lands alone. I shall omit no opportunity of mentioning your plan to those you speak of\u2014As to your intentions respecting your negroes, it is a delicate and perplexing subject. It has allways appeared to me, that their wellfare and the safety of the country required that the plan should be gradual\u2014In this point of view, it has occurred to me to be a good preparatory step, to select some one of the most intelligent and responsible negroes, and rent to him a farm with so many hands furnished with every necessary implement; stipulating so much for each hand to recieve as an encouragement for them to work, and do their duty without violence; and so much to the proprietor for the use of the land, and the furnishing of the implements; with this further inducement to industry and good behaviour, that if they conducted themselves well they should be at perfect liberty at the expiration of two or three years either to remain on the farm, or seek employment elsewhere; in short, that they should enjoy perfect liberty. A large proprietor, might inform his other negroes that he meant to rent another farm on the same plan every year, till they were all free, or his lands all occupied, in which latter case, the ballance of the negroes would be set free on condition of paying a moderate sum to their Masters for two or three years. It appears to me, to be a necessary step to give them this information, to prevent uneasiness among the rest, who have been equally deserving, and to interest them all in encouraging those with whom the first experiment was made to industry, and good behaviour\u2014It might be\nmade a further rule, that if any one of those with whom the first experiment was made, should behave refractorily, and be disobedient to his principal, he should forfeit his claim to freedom for that term, and some one else substituted in his stead\u2014By some such plan as this, I think the minds of the negroes would be better prepared for directing and governing themselves at the end of the term fixed on\u2014They would besides, if frugal of their earnings, have something to subsist on, and of course not be so likely to fall into bad habits, and become dangerous to society\u2014To give this experiment a fair chance the Legislature should pass an act enabling those destined for freedom, to bear witness against the whites in all instances at least of trespasses, and robbery committed on such a farm: otherwise, the benevolence of the Proprietor would be frustrated, without any default or want of exertion on the part of the negroes\u2014This indeed, is a measure allready necessary from the numbers at present free\u2014And there have been instances in this County, where some free negroes have had their houses broke open, and robbed of all they had, without being able to get any redress, tho\u2019 they knew the robbers: because, their testimony against a white man was inadmissible\u2014This plan would render the associations you are seeking after unnecessary\u2014if attended with success, I believe it would effect the abolition of slavery on terms more satisfactory to the Masters, and beneficial to the slaves too, from it\u2019s gradual operation, than any which has been tried\u2014A fiew successfull examples would bring it into such general use, that the Legislature might ultimately recommend it, or take steps for introducing it.\n          The practicability of the plan, seems at least to be evinced, by the actual condition of the lower classes of people in Europe, during the existence of the feudal system. They were not only as much debased, but their masters even possessed the right in many instances of taking away their lives\u2014and another perhaps still more humiliating, of having the first night with the daughters of all his vassalls when married\u2014The introduction of commerce, was the happy cause wc\u27e8h\u27e9 dispelled this execrable system\u2014If debasement of mind therefore, is any argument against the plan, I think it may be proved that the whites were in a more debased state under the feudal system. And yet these people at present form the substantial yeomanry of those Countries where they were once so vilifyed\u2014That the same will happen to\nour negroes I have no doubt\u2014And the only thing to be regretted is, that they are not of the same colour with ourselves\u2014But time which applies a remedy to all things, will no doubt soon find one for this.\n          From the many connexions formed by the Dower negroes in the neighbourhood, and with your own, I really view that part of the plan as more painful and perhaps difficult than the other, altho\u2019 unavoidable, and what happens every day\u2014I really know not well how the estate will be carried on in any tolerable manner when the girls shares are all taken away\u2014I expect to hire most of Mr Peter\u2019s for the present year, on very low terms\u2014And from what I can learn, it is probable, I may allways have Betsey\u2019s for very little: As I am told, Mr Law say\u2019s she may do as she pleases with her fortune\u2014In this case, I suppose she will exact but a moderate hire from her brother\u2014I have for four years past, been looking forward to such an event and preparing for it in the best manner by converting the estates into farms which require fewer hands than the cultivation of tobacco\u2014But I expect the Eastern shore estate must be rented out the next year; tho\u2019 for it\u2019s extent it has been the most profitable\u2014From the constant accidents which seem to befall the wheat crops, and the heavy charge of supporting many negroes I have really found it hitherto difficult to pay up the annuity even in the manner it has been done\u2014How far it will be prudent to encounter an additional, and even reasonable sum for the hire of those you speak of, I cannot determine at present\u2014For, tho\u2019 it may be at a low rate, and such as an industrious person under his own management might find advantageous, much allowance must be made for an estate at a distance\u2014The division made, was as you apprehended from the whole aggregate number of negroes\u2014I had however taken advise on it\u2014The case is very different from the dower negroes still in your possession\u2014they must revert to Washington Custis\u2014But by the terms of your contract with Mr Custis, those included in that instrument, are surrendered up to him and his heirs for ever\u2014But each of the girls will be liable for a part of the annuity; and I shall either reserve in my possession as many negroes as will defray their proportion, or take their Husband\u2019s bonds for paying it to me\u2014If indeed the contract had been as you apprehended, I do not see how the negroes could now be ascertained, as their names are not inserted\nin the contract, but merely stated at thirty two more or less\u2014As soon as the crops of the last year are disposed of, the proportion of each of the annuity will be fixed; there being persons appointed by Court for the purpose\u2014But it will fall principally on the land, as you will observe it must, from the small proportion they have of the negroes that were formerly, of Dower.\n          Betsey as I suppose she informed you, made entirely her own bargain in a Husband\u2014She was desired by her mother and myself, when informed of it, to weight well the disparity in their years\u2014From my acquaintance with Mr Law he appears to be very amiable, and he is certainly a man of very superior understanding\u2014He has shewed me the most honourable testimonials of his conduct when in the service of the East India Company. As to his fortune, he stated it at 60,000 Stirling certainly; and most probably 80,000; but the latter depended on some circumstances which he did not mention\u2014It was his own proposition to settle 10,00\u00a3 (stirling I think) on Betsey\u2014An instrument to this purport is drawing up by Mr Cranch\u2014I do not think he is in any respect an agent\u2014He has recieved lately many letters from his friends in India, empowering him to buy largely for them in this Country. He says, they seem to be alarmed at the situation of England, and are looking fast towards transferring their wealth here\u2014I expect, he will prove the most valuable acquisition the City has yet made, not only from what he will do himself, but from the very high point of respectability in which both his character and abilities appear to be held in the E. Indies. I am Dr Sir, with the greatest respect Your Affete Serv:", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0403", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 26 February 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Lear, Tobias\nTo: Washington, George\n          Letter not found: from Tobias Lear, 26 Feb. 1796. On 2 March, Lear wrote to GW: \u201cI had the honor to address you under date of the 26th ultimo\u201d; in GW\u2019s letter to Lear of 13 March, he acknowledged receipt of \u201cletters of the 26th Ulto and 2d Instant.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0405", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Harriot Washington, 26 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, Harriot\nTo: Washington, George\n            Mill-Brook [Va.] Febry 26\u201396\n          I now take up my pen to answer my dear and Honord Uncle\u2019s letter of February 17th though when it will reach you I cant pretend to say as I am now at Matipony where there are very seldom opportunity to Fredericksburg also to express my thanks for your unbound\u2019d kindness in sending the money requested it did not get here time enough but Aunt Lewis was so kind as to trust me therefore I paid her the sum lent immediately on receiving your letter Aunt Lewis join\u2019s me in love to you and Aunt Washington. I am my dear & Honor\u2019d Uncle your affectionate Neice\n            Harriot Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0406", "content": "Title: John Marsden Pintard to Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., 27 February 1796\nFrom: Pintard, John Marsden\nTo: Dandridge, Bartholomew Jr.\n            Madeira 27th February 1796\n          I herewith hand you Invoice of one pipe of very choice old Madeira wine Shiped by me on board the American Brig the Peace of Norfolk Joseph Saltus Master and Consigned to Messrs Pettit & Bayard of Philadelphia to be held by them at the disposal of the President of the United States if he thinks proper after tasting it to Receive it and Should the President Conclude to take it you will be pleased to Settle for its amount being forty Pounds Sterling with Messs. Petitt & Bayard. This pipe of wine you will find to be of an excellent Quality and such as I think will Please the President\u2014The pipe is a very particular peice of workmanship being made by a young lad of 18 years of age just out of his Apprenticeship and you will Scarcely be able to See where the Staves join I have never yet heard whether the President tooke the pipe of wine I ship\u2019t by way of India to Boston to the care of Mr Thomas Russell for him I hope that the\nShip Ganges Capt. Tingey will arrive Safe at Philadelphia and deliver the two pipes I shiped by him for the President in good order for be assured they are of a very excellent quality It will give me Pleasure to hear the President approoves of the pipe I now Send him and Requesting the favour of you to present Mrs Pintards and my profound Respects to Mrs Washington and the President I Remain with great Respect Sir your most obedient and very Humble Sert\n            John M. Pintard", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0407", "content": "Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 28 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Clinton, George\n            Philadelphia 28th Feb: 1796\n          To the enclosed, I answered in a note, that the whole of the business to which it related, was entrusted to you: from whom, if application was made, complete information might be obtained.\n          A few days afterwards, Mr Cooper applied to me personally; intimated that the land was valuable; that he was desirous of purchasing; and would give a good price for it. I answered as before, and added that much of the land had already been disposed of.\n          Repeating his wish to know what part remained unsold, and the terms on wch it could be obtained, are the causes of my troubling you with this letter and its enclosure.\n          Whatever answer you incline to give to them, let it be so framed as that it may be shewn to Mr Cooper. With great esteem and regard\u2014I am\u2014Dear Sir Your Obedt & Affecte Hble Servt\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0408", "content": "Title: From George Washington to George Washington Motier Lafayette, 28 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lafayette, George Washington Motier\n            My dear young friend,\n            Philadelphia 28th Feb. [1796]\n          My desire to see you, is such, that I request that you and Mr Festal, will make me a visit about the first of April at this City; by that time the Weather will be settled, the roads good, and the travelling pleasant.\n          Colo. Hamilton will be the channel thro\u2019 which this letter will be conveyed to you; and my wish is that you and Mr Festal would come by the way of New York to this City, and there make necessary arrangements with that Gentleman with respect to your proceeding hither.\n          Any thing of which you stand in need, will be furnished by Colo. Hamilton on my behalf. With best wishes & the most affecte regard I remain yours always", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0409", "content": "Title: Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., to James McHenry, 28 February 1796\nFrom: Dandridge, Bartholomew Jr.\nTo: McHenry, James\n            [Philadelphia] 28 Feby 1796.\n          By The President\u2019s order B. Dandridge respectfully transmits to The Secretary of War the enclosed papers respecting proceedings had by Govr Blount with the southern Indians, with a request that he will carefully peruse them & see if any & what parts require to be acted upon immediately.\n          The President desires that The Secy of War will, in his Letters to Govr Blount, request him to make known to the chiefs who wish to visit Philada that the Conference which is to be held in May next between the Commissioners appointed for that purpose & the Creeks, will prevent their coming \u2019till some time in the summer when the President will be absent from Philaa\u2014He\ndesires, therefore, that their visit may be deferred \u2019till about the begining of September, when he will have returned to the City, & will be glad to meet them.\n            P.S. The President desires the Secretary to attend a meeting of the heads of Departments tomorrow morng at 10 o\u2019Clock, at the Presidents.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0410", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 28 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n            Philadelphia 28th Feb. 1796\n          Your letter of the 21st instt with the Reports of the preceeding week came to my hands yesterday. I do not recollect that I have missed writing to you by Mondays Posts since you returned from the Eastern shore.\n          I have no doubt of your having many applications to Rent, both my farms and Mill; but I question if it be from such persons, or on such terms, as I would chuse to engage; for which reason, all I would have you do in the matter, is, to inform me of their names\u2014of what place they are\u2014what their views are &ca which you may request them to give in writing, for the purpose of transmitting the same to me. I must know my men, & how capable they are of doing justice to me, the land, and the objects I have in view; before I shall part with the property. In a word, but this I mention for your own information, I shall not be in a hurry, or fond of renting to the slovenly farmers of this Country, if I thought there was a well grounded hope of getting them from any other; where husbandry is better understood, and more profitably practiced. I furnish you however, with the terms on which I mean to lease my lands\u2014if I do it at all\u2014and wish to know what you and others think of them, & the probability of my disposing of them agreeably thereto.\n          I would have you take ten shares in the Bank of Alexandria, as you have the means to purchase them.\n          By your last account of the price of flour in Alexandria it had risen: keep me advised of the price, & I will tell you when to sell\u2014In the meantime, hurry the grinding as much as you can, that the whole may go off at once.\n          If, after your New ground is compleated, you could find time to open the New road from the White gates towards the Gum spring, it would be pleasing, & no matter whether it strikes the old road above the little field (in the wood) or not; as it would be the straighter for it. But as I have said on former occasions, I do not require you to undertake it, if it should interfere with more important work; or if it cannot (at least such part as is undertaken) be executed in a complete manner; for I should not like to be jolting over stumps in passing it with a carriage.\n          What grubbing have you accomplished in field No. 4. at Union Farm? How does the Winter grain look after all the open, and wet weather which we have had? And how does my old white horse stand it?\n          There is a vessel now up for Alexandria, by which I shall send you three bushels of Clover seed, altho\u2019 I am obliged to pay at the rate of 2/6 pr lb. for it. I shall also send you some Rye-grass seeds provided a tryal which I am now making of its goodness (being imported seed) proves satisfactory. If I should send the latter seed, I would have you sow it in some place where seed can be saved from it, rather than to spread it sparsely over the ground at Mansion H. which was in Corn last year. The Books you have, will tell you how thick it ought to be sown, to cover the ground well.\n          Herewith you will receive a parcel of Seeds for the Gardener; but I request you to tell him, in positive terms, that he must, in future, save his own seeds; for I cannot be eternally buying seeds in the manner I am, merely because it saves trouble; when the cost falls so heavy upon me; especially too, as it is an equal chance that the Seed is bad. I think of nothing else at present; but wish you well, and am Your friend\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0412", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Jr., 29 February 1796\nFrom: Trumbull, Jonathan Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n          Persuaded that the Treaties lately concluded with foreign Nations will soon induce a number of appointments from you, to effectuate the various objects of those Treaties\u2014I take the Liberty of bringing into your View, one or two Persons who I should deem suitable to sustain some of those appointments.\n          The first Gentleman I recommend, is Mr Christo. Gore of Massachusetts\u2014of this Gentleman I entertain a very good Opinion\u2014as well from personal knowlege of his Character & abilities\u2014as from the recommendations of others in whom I can confide, & who are perhaps more intimately acquainted with his Talents than I am\u2014This Gentleman I should conceive to be a very suitable Character to be employed as a Commiss[ion]er on the Claims for English Spoilations\u2014I have reason to believe, he would readily engage to go abroad on that mission\u2014and would be very agreable to many, if not all those Claimants from the State of Massachutts\u2014who are perhaps more numerous & more interested in that business, than from any other State.\n          The Other Person I beg leave to mention is Mr Amasa Learned of Connecticut\u2014late a Member in Congress from that State\u2014his Talents Probity & Abilities, I believe, are very generally known & acknowleged\u2014his Abilities may perhaps be best employed in surveying & determining the Boundaries of the U. States\u2014between either the British or the Spanish Nation\u2014I should not entertain much doubt of his being advantageously employed in settling & adjudging the British Claim for Debts in this Country\u2014But, as you will doubtless have many Characters\npresented to your View, I have the fullest confidence that you will be able to make the best Estimate of the comparitive Merits of the Persons who will be named\u2014and form the most satisfactory selection for the different purposes which will be needed\u2014With the highest Respect & Regard\u2014I am\u2014Sir\u2014Your most Affectionate and Obedient Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0413", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Bushrod Washington, 29 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, Bushrod\nTo: Washington, George\n            Dear Uncle\n          I rec: your letter of the 10th with a bundle of papers which I have examined. I had before issued a Subp\u0153na from the Court of Chancery, and I wish to file the Bill during the present Session that I may be enabled to obtain an order to be inserted in the Gazette warning the residuary Legatees to come forward with their respective pretensions. Your great object I know is to close this business, and obtain a quietus from all parties concerned. But there are other considerations which I beg leave to present to your view that I may know more fully your wishes.\n          Your accounts have been all settled by Commissioners appointed by the Court in the usual way, but should that settlement be hereafter contested it is necessary to inform you that a resettlement would be directed before Commissioners named by the Chancellor.\n          This induced me to ask Mr Keith if the vouchers were all preserved, and in themselves sufficient to avail you in case it should be necessary to resort to them. he inform\u2019d me they were. this being the case, I thought it would be satisfactory if a resettlement were asked for, whilst you can have the benefit of Mr Keiths assistance. Is this your wish? it will shut out future contestation when vouchers may be lost and those are in the grave who might explain matters.\n          Mr Keith has not furnish\u2019d me as yet with the appraisment and account of Sales of the estate, but I shall write to him for them as well as for information as required.\n          I am therefore unable to State whether all the personal estate has been sold, or whether there are any debts yet to collect and if there are, in what situation they are. I think I understood from you when at Mount Vernon that something was yet due from Sydney George\u2014If I do not mistake in this, be good enough to give me what information you can upon this part of the subject. As to the special rect given by you, I will take care that the residuary Legatees be decreed to give you counter security on that head. This Court rises the 21st of this month, before which I beg to hear from you if convenient.\n          I have now to acknowledge the reciept of the two Hogs for which I return you many thanks\u2014they are a valuable acquisition to me.\n          The Bundle of papers which you sent me, it will be necessary for me to retain\u2014good care shall be taken of them.\n          Nancy Joins me in love to you & my aunt. Believe me to be very sincerely dear Uncle yr affect: Nephew\n            Bushrod Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0414", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 1 March 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          I have the great satisfaction to inform you that Mr Lear has purchased the lands at the junction of the Potowmac & Shenandoah, on the original terms. His letter, which I have just received, is inclosed. I take liberty to inclose also my letter to Mr Lear to make the purchase; and am with the greatest respect sir your obt servant\n            Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0415", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 1 March 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n            Department of State March 1. 1796.\n          The Director of the Mint has presented the inclosed statement to show at what rate he can probably import ten tons of sheet copper for the mint. He can purchase no more here and all that has been purchased has been coined. The rate of exchange being extremely favourable at this moment, he wishes to obtain your approbation of his estimate to enable him to obtain from the Treasury the sum stated, viz. 5540 dollars to purchase the bills necessary to effect the importation on the best terms. I am with the highest respect sir your most obt servt\n            Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0416", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, 1 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Senate,House of Representatives\n            United States March 1st 1796\n          Gentlemen of the Senate and of the House of Representatives.\n          The Treaty of Amity, Commerce and Navigation concluded between the United States of America and his Britannic Majesty, having been duly ratified, and the ratifications having been exchanged at London on the 28th day of October 1795, I have directed the same to be promulgated; and herewith transmit a copy thereof for the information of Congress.\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0418", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 2 March 1796\nFrom: Lear, Tobias\nTo: Washington, George\n            Washington, March 2d 1796\n          I had the honor to address you under date of the 26th ultimo, informing of my having closed the business respecting the property at the junction of the Potomac & Shanandoah Rivers &c.\n          Agreeably to my promise at that time, your account current should have been forwarded by the last Post; but I was called to Alexa. on business which prevented its being prepared. It is now enclosed, and I hope will be found right. The Balance will lay at your disposal in such way as you may point out. I should have made further purchase in the Stock of Alexandria Bank; but, for particular reasons, I chose to postpone it. The addition made to the Stock of that Bank will cause the shares to be less sought for than before. The subscription for new shares is yet open and not nearly full; the late Change of the President of that Bank (Mr Herbert having been chosen in place of Mr Hartshorne) has a tendency to diminish the confidence of the people in the Country, and lessen the circulation of their notes. No reason being assigned for the Change, it is placed to the score of fickelness in the management, which, in Banks, is always productive of evil. However, I firmly beleive that the Bank of Alexandria will prove as solid as any Bank excepting the national one. But I conceive that the period is not very distant when all will suffer in a greater or less degree.\n          You will observe in the dividend at the Alexa. Bank in January, that 8\u00bd per Cent is divided on the Capital for 6 months. This cannot be expected to happen again. It arose now from their dividing all the accumulations in the Bank, to place the new Shares upon a footing with the old.\n          I yesterday purchased twenty Potomac Shares, which were thrown into the Market with a double view, the ostensible, to raise money; but, I beleive, the real, to cast a discredit on the Potomac Interest. The price asked was 450 dolls. pr Share, all paid up, which is only 4 56/100 dolls. more than the original Cost without interest. Should you incline to take some of this Stock you can have it at the rate I gave; for I shall sell part of it as soon as a fair oppy offers to dispose of it without injuring the interest. My object in buying was only to prevent the ill effects which would have followed its being hawked about. Could I afford to hold the Shares I should rejoice; for I know no object which offers such permanent & increasing value. A few days ago I had an offer made of property (Stores & a Wharf) in Alexa. in an eligible part of the town, to the Amount of ten thousand Dollars, with a security of renting it for ten years, without additional expense, for ten per Cent on the purchase. I mention this, that\nin Case you should incline to purchase property on these terms, you could, I presume, have it.\n          Since the advertisement of your lands has appeared, several persons have applied to me to know if I was acquainted with the prices of lease or purchase; for the former, it is possible tenants may appear in this quarter; for the latter Phila. or N. York would be most likely to furnish applicants. Nothing being said about the people, it is uncertain whether they are to be attached to the Lands or not.\n          Fanny and the Children are well & unite in sentiments of respect & affection for you with Your obliged & grateful friend & Obedient Servant\n            Tobias Lear", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0419", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Posey, 2 March 1796\nFrom: Posey, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n            Spotsylvania [Va.] March 2d\u20141796\n          Being inform\u2019d of your having it in contemplation to appropriate the Virginia donation shares of the James river compy to the purpose of an endowment for the Establishment of a University somewhere above the Blue ridge in the state of Virginia; and being well assured that information relative to a situation, would be acceptable (however small a light it might throw upon\nthe subject) I have taken the liberty merely to suggest to you a few particulars which comes within my own knowledge\u2014Three places I am told have been mentioned to you for your consideration as being suitable for the situation of a university Viz.\u2014Staunton, Lexington, and Fincastle. Either of those places are well situated as to pureness of Air, & water, also as to convenience for the accomodation of supplies; but as to centrality of population there can be no doubt in favor of Lexington It is also the centre of the three places mentioned and indeed I may almost say of the state. As to its natural advantages of situation, it has scarcely an equal, and as to the improved advantages they are superior to either of the places mentiond: there being a considerable building already completed for the purposes of a Seminary, which will bare adding to with great propriety, both as to elegance and convenience; and the neighbourhood abounds with wealthy farmers, and well improved farms: that there would be little doubt of a plentifull supply of provisions. The building stands on a commanding eminence unconnected with, but in view of the town; which will afford a communication for the advantages of accommodation if necessary.\n          I have understood that Charlottesville has been proposed to you; I think I may venture to say it is not to be compared to the advantages possess\u2019d by either of the other places mentioned. I am with sentiments of great respect Your Obt H. Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0420", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Henry Young, 2 March 1796\nFrom: Young, Henry\nTo: Washington, George\n            Virginia King & Queen County 2d March 96\n          From a variety of causes I am induced to write this Letter, but the main one is, to prevail on you to suffer your self to be nominated for the insuing election of President. The consequences resulting from your nomination alone, will silence the faction opposed to your person, & your Administration; your election,\nof which their can be no doubt, will demonstrate to all America, that the sentiments of the people of Virginia are not understood by the temper of their representatives, either in Congress, or, the State Legislature. A last effort is making to procure Mr Jefferson the appointment of President: But Sir if I am not mistaken, & I am thoroughly persuaded I am not, you have nothing else to do, to bury in silent contempt all your enemy\u2019s, but to declare that you will continue to administer the Government if the People shall think fit to confide it to your care. The people Sir of Virginia venerate the Federal Government, they also approve, highly approve, of your Administration, by expressions of gratitude to you, for placing them in a Situation the most enviable, that any Nation ever enjoyed. Some of your friends & consequently the friends of the Government are doubtful, that the opposition is ment to go farther than to you, and your Administration, they fear it goes to the destruction of the Government itself: I acknowledge my fears on that head. The people Sir have in you a confirmed confidence, that you will not withdraw your services at this critical moment tho you have done so much for them, & thereby risque the loss of a Government, which has excited, the love, the envy & the Admiration of the World: a government too that you have been the chief, if not the sole cause of giving to America. I shall conclude by observing, that I am confident, you will not cease to do for your Country as long as any thing remains to be done. I am with all due respect your friend", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0421", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Justus Erick Bollmann, 3 March 1796\nFrom: Bollmann, Justus Erick\nTo: Washington, George\n            170 High street [Philadelphia] March 3. 1796\n          If I am not mistaken Your Excellency mentioned, when I had the honor to wait on You about three weeks ago, that You intented to have some farther conversation with me through Mr Pickering. Not having had the pleasure to see Mr Pickering since, and going to depart for New york in a few days I think it my duty to inform Your Excellency of this in order to receive\nYour commands. Waiting which I have the honor to be with the highest respect Sir Your Excellency\u2019s most obidient and humble servant\n            J. Erick Bollmann", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0423", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 3 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Senate\n            Gentlemen of the Senate,\n            United States March the 3d 1796.\n          I nominate Oliver Elsworth, of Connecticut, to be Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States; vice William Cushing, resigned.\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0425", "content": "Title: To George Washington from George Cabot, 4 March 1796\nFrom: Cabot, George\nTo: Washington, George\n          The great importance of selecting persons speedily for the offices created by the british treaty, & the difficulty of finding those who may be in all respects competent to the duties required, have suggested the belief that it might not be unacceptable to the Executive to receive from various parts of the Union the names of Candidates who may be thought most suitable. under the impressions of these ideas I have frequently reviewed the circles in which I have been accustomed to move, & it ought to be confessed that very few have occurr\u2019d to my mind whose characters were wholly free from objections; however I do not hesitate to mention Mr Gore as a Gentleman who, in my estimation, unites most of the qualifications requisite for a Commissioner in London & possesses more fitness for that trust than any other Person in Massachusetts who can be consider\u2019d as a\nCandidate. I also take the liberty of naming Mr Parsons as a Lawyer whose well known talents peculiarly fit him for investigating & deciding on the claims of british Creditors, & Mr Learned of Connecticut as a Gentleman whose probity & good sense qualify him for many offices where public confidence is required. with the highest possible respect I am Sir your mo. obt Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0428", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Richard Peters, 4 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Peters, Richard\n            Philadelphia 4th March 96\n          My public duties not allowing me to keep pace with Sir John Sinclairs wishes, is the best apology I can make for giving you the trouble of receiving (if you even should not read) the enclosed: and for requesting, if your leizure will not permit you to bestow any attention to his request (which you will find) at the head of the \u201cOut lines of the fifteenth chapter,\u201d &ca that you would prevail on some of the most intelligent farmers of your acquaintance to favor you or me with their observations thereon, for the satisfaction of Sir John; who is zealous in acquiring information, and promoting these measures, which are of great public utility, and very interesting to Agriculture. Yours always\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0429", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 5 March 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n            Department of State March 5th 1796.\n          The Secretary of State respectfully lays before the President of the United States the draught of instructions and a seperate letter for Mr Pinckney, relative to further negociations with Great Britain, the Secretary not supposing a formal commission would be necessary. Should he be mistaken, there will be time to prepare a commission, as the ship favourite will not sail till Tuesday.\n            T. Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0430", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Thomas Pinckney, 5 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pinckney, Thomas\n            Philadelphia 5th Mar. 1796.\n          The Ship Favourite, by which these dispatches are sent, having been delayed much longer in this Port than was expected, affords me an opportunity of informing you\u2014that the Spanish Treaty arrived here on the 22d Ulto; that it was laid before the Senate as soon after, as the accompanying Papers could be copied; and that, on the 3d instant, the Ratification of it was advised & consented to by an unanimous vote of that body. Hence you may form an opinion of the general approbation of your negociation. With very great esteem and regard I am\u2014Dear Sir Your Affecte Hble Sert\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0432", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James Madison, 6 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Madison, James\n            Philadelphia 6th March 1796\n          As you are knowing to the situation of young Mr Fayette; to the measures I have adopted in his behalf; to my wishes towards him; and to the restraints under which those wishes have been placed, from considerations of a public nature. And as I am unacquainted with the ground work, or the tendency of the motion made by Mr Livingston, relative to this young gentleman; I flatter myself, that in the progress of the business before the house, that you will have the goodness, as far as proper representation will avail, to let the result of the motion be such, as it ought; both as it respects him, & myself.\n          The United States are much better able to make provision for this young gentleman, and his family, than I am; and I should be highly pleased & gratified to see it accomplished in that way; because it would be more honorable for them, and a relief to me: but neither the one, nor the other shall want, while I have the means of administering to their relief.\n          My wish, as has been communicated to you on a former occasion, was, and still is, if circumstances would permit it, to take him, with his Tutor, into my family: and, in the absence of his father, to superintend his education & morals: and this I am the more desirous of doing, as it is the impression under which he appears to have come to this country.\n          What form, the proceedings on Mr Livingstons motion will take, is not for me to say; but my ideas, and feelings on the subject, have led me to make these communications of my Sentiments to you; who alone, of the house of Representatives, has ever heard me lisp a word on this subject. With sincere esteem & regard I am\u2014Dear Sir Your Affecte Servt\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0433", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 6 March 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n          Letter not found: from William Pearce, 6 March 1796. On 13 March, GW wrote Pearce: \u201cYour letter of the 6th instant came to hand yesterday.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0434", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 6 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n            Philadelphia 6th March 1796\n          I have given your Letter of instructions to our Minister at the Court of London, attentive consideration, and approve them; unless the last clause but one, should give rise to the negotiation of an article which may not accord with the result of a motion which is pending in the House of Representatives (introduced, if my memory serves me, by Mr Smith, of Baltimore)\u2014of which, however, I have but an imperfect recollection.\n          I think too (even with the advantages proposed to be obtained by the reduction) our Negotiator should adhere, even to the hazard of the Treaty altogether, to vessels of one hundred tons burthen, for the West India trade.\n          These things, and a general view of the subject, as comprized in the instructions, added to matters which have been, & may yet be introduced into Congress, which may have relation to the proposed negotiation, incline me to think that it would be better to forbear sending the dispatches for Mr Pinckney by the ship Favourite (as other conveyances will no doubt soon offer)\u2014& to take more time in consulting the most intelligent mercantile characters within your reach, on the principles and heads of the several articles which are the subject of them.\n          The Instructions ought, in my opinion, to be accompanied with powers. They may be offered or not, as occasion shall require. They can, with this alternative, do no harm: whereas the want of them, if called for, may occasion a suspension of the measure.\n          Mr Adams\u2019s letter, and Lord Grenville\u27e8\u2019s\u27e9 propositions relative to captured vessels of a certain description\u2014and with respect to the pay of the Commissioners, require immediat\u27e8e\u27e9 attention.\n          Proclamation of the treaties with Spain & Algiers, should issue as soon as they can be prepared, & the ratification of the former dispatched as soon as possible. Measures also for carrying these, & the other treaties which have been ratified & proclaimed, into effect, ought to meet with no delay that can be avoided.\n          And I request you would concert measures with the Secretaries of War, & Treasury, if necessary, for proceeding vigorously, & securely with the Arsenal at the confluence of Potomac & Shenandoah.\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0435", "content": "Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 7 March 1796\nFrom: Clinton, George\nTo: Washington, George\n            Greenwich [Village, N.Y.] 7th March 1796.\n          Owing to my not having been in Town for some Days past I did not receive your Letter as soon as might have been expected\u2014I now inclose you an Answer respecting our Lands in Coxburgh which may be shewn to Mr Cooper\u2014I think it proper at the same Time for your private Information to be a little more particular on the Subject; Knowing the Character and Circumstances of the Man, I have no Idea that he ever had any serious Intention to purchase our Lands (unless he could obtain them far below their value) or that he could command the ready Cash for the purpose yet lest I should be misstaken, the Price I have mentioned is what I think we ought not to reject if offered, and on the other hand we ought not to accept of less\u2014Our first Sales were low tho quite as high as others sold for at the Time; but unfortunately we sold rather too much at the Commencement of the Settlement of that Quarter of the Country. These Sales however tended to inhance the value of our remaining Lotts and they have since increased in value far beyond the usual Interest of Money\u2014Our first Sales you will recollect was at 2 Dollars pr Acre, the second at 3 Dollars and the last two Lotts I agreed to sell are at something better than 5 Dollars pr Acre with Interest\nfrom the Date of the Agreement\u2014I am of Opinion therefore that the remaining Lotts will command the like Price Admitting the value of Lands there to be stationary whereas I am inclined to believe they will yet continue to rise tho perhaps not in the same proportion they have hitherto done\u2014It is obvious then that the only advantage in selling the whole together at 40/ pr Acre would be in receiving the Cash down and in an Excemption from the Trouble of retailing it out in Farms & receiving the Money in parcels and for this we must relinquish the Advantages which may accrue from their rising value\u2014I shall however be willing & happy to conform to your Sentiments on the subject. I am with the highest Respect & Esteem Dear Sir Your Affectionate Humble Servant\n            Geo: Clinton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0437", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Alexander Contee Hanson, 7 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hanson, Alexander Contee\n            Philadelphia 7th Mar. 1796\n          Your letter of the 22d Ulto has been duly received; and altho\u2019 it is not usual with me, to answer letters of application for offices or to assign reasons for non-compliance; yet, from the respectability of your character, I depart from it in the present instance: and doing so, candour requires I should add, that it would be inexpedient to take two of the Associate Judges from the same State. The practice has been (founded I conceive in sound policy) to dissiminate them through the United States.\n          I have not mentioned, nor shall I mention, the application you have made. I keep no copy of this letter, & that your own may never appear, I transmit it to you, to be disposed of as you shall think proper. With sentiments of esteem & regard I am Sir Your Obedient Hble Serv.\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0438", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Isaac Craig, 8 March 1796\nFrom: Craig, Isaac\nTo: Washington, George\n            Philadelphia 8th of March 1796No. 86 Race Street\n          Your letter of the 13th Ultimo Enclosing an Advertisemt of Your Lands has been received and the Advertisement agreeable to your directions insetred in the Pittsburg Gazette & Posted up at Several of the most public places of that Town, also at Browns Ville on the Monongahale & at Union Town & Washington &c.\n          A part of Your Lands on the Ohio I have seen & am thereby convinced it is of the first Quality & the Situation unexceptionable, but I am appre[he]nsive that the prob[ab]ility of A Sale of part of the Northwestern Teritory Soon taking place will at present Opperate against Your Lands Commanding that Price their Quality & situation Merits, it is notwithstanding my Opinion that the Ohio Lands will Sell for four Dollars pr Acre. the Lands on Miami I presume will Sell at three Dollars, but of the Other Lands I am entirely Ignorant of their probable Value\u2014The letters Addressed to Genl Putnam & Colol Lewis has been carefully transmitted to Marrietta & Mount Pleasant. I am with the most unfeigned Respect Sir Your Very Obedient Humble Servant\n            Isaac Craig", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0440", "content": "Title: From George Washington to George Lewis, 8 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lewis, George\n            Philadelphia 8th Mar. 1796.\n          I send you the enclosed Advertisement, that you may perceive thereby, I have restrained myself from selling the Land I hold on Green River in Kentucky, until the first of September; that all who are disposed to purchase may have notice thereof. Between this and then, I would thank you to give me, from time to time, and by duplicates (to guard against miscarriages) such information as you may be able to obtain, of what it will likely Sell for, on the terms it is offered. Let this information extend to the other tracts also; as your opportunities of acquiring this information is superior to mine, from the knowledge, and acquaintance you have with the classes of people who buy; either for actual settlement, or the purposes of speculation.\n          The rise in the prices of Land in Kentucky, according to the accounts given of it by people from that State, is almost incredible; and possibly are a little exagerated; but that it is considerable, there can be no doubt.\n          Colo. Marshall writes me, that he had paid the tax on my Land on Kentucky; which supercedes the necessity for you to do it. My\nlove to Mrs Lewis in wch your Aunt unites\u2014I am, Your Affecte friend & Uncle\n            Go: Washington\n            P.S. Always put the letters you may write to me into the Post Office, as far preferable to any private conveyances.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0441", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 8 March 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          As the cases of illegal captures under the British treaty ought to be determined by the laws of nations it has occurred to me that you might think mercantile less necessary than law knowlege in the persons to be appointed commissioners.\n          If one of the judges of the supreme court of the U.S. could be spared and no objection interferes against such an appointment I suppose there would be no difficulty in selecting one willing to undertake the business. There appears however to be objections.\n          Jeremiah T. Chase of Annapolis one of the judges of the general Court in Maryland is very well qualified, but altho I understand that he intends to leave the bench I question whether he would accept an appointment that would oblige him to go to England.\n          Mr R. Potts of the Senate is also a fit person.\n          Mr Robt Smith attorney at law Baltimore.\n          Mr Seney one of the District Judges in Maryland.\n          Mr Craik Do\u2014\n          Mercantile characters having fitness for the appointment.\n          Mr Winder of the Senate of Maryland\u2014a clear distinguishing head\u2014very conversant in accounts and a certain degree of Law knowlege.\n          James Calhoon of Baltimore.\n          I have the honour to be with the greatest respect Sir Your most obdt\n            James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0442", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, 8 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Senate,House of Representatives\n            United States March 8. 1796\n          Gentlemen of the Senate and of the House of Representatives\n          I send herewith, for the information of Congress, the treaty concluded between the United States and the Dey and Regency of Algiers.\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0444", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Bushrod Washington, 9 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Washington, Bushrod\n            Philadelphia 9th Mar: 1796\n          Owing to some irregularity of the Post, your letter of the 29th Ulto did not reach my hands until 8 oclock last Night.\n          I shall leave the management of the chancery business respecting Colvils estate entirely to you; not only for the purpose of closing it speedily, but effectually also; as I want to be quieted in this business, & to be finally done with it.\n          Mr Keith has, to the present stage of the business, had the sole management of it; and can give you more correct information than it is in my power to do, of every thing relative to it. The vouchers, I presume were satisfactory, but where they are I know not; unless they were deposited with the accts; remain in the hands of Mr Keith, or (as I believe is the case with respect to some of them) are in the bundle I sent you. If I have any of them, they must be at Mount Vernon (packed up with other papers) and not to be got at unless I was there. But as I mean to put your letter to me, and this answer, with a flying seal, under cover to Mr Keith, he will I hope, give you all the information you may need, for the purpose of closing the business, before the closing of the present Chancery term.\n          The personal Estate, as I presume you will be informed by Mr Keith, has been all accounted for; Nor is there any thing now owing to the Estate within my knowledge. Sydney George\u2019s acct (which kept the matter open sometime) was the last, and the settlement of that, if I mistake not, was among the Papers I sent you. the whole of that matter being settled, or negociated by Mr William Tilghman. If it was not among the Papers sent you,\nit was left with Mr Keith. With Affectionate regard I am always Yours\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0445", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Robert Lewis, 10 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lewis, Robert\n            Philadelphia 10th Mar. 1796.\n          Your letter of the 17th of last month did not reach my hands until the evening before last. Why so long delayed, I know not; because the passage from you to me, is certain; after the letter is once in the line of the Posts; tho uncertain from me to you: and for that reason it has become expedient for you to let me know to whose care (since your mother has left Fredericksburgh) letters for you ought to be directed. Whether through the Post Office of that place, to be lodged at Fauquier Court House, or otherwise. Your Brother is so much absent from Fredericksburgh, as to render it ineligable to put letters under cover to him\u2014of course some channel more certain must be devised.\n          No good reason occurs to me, for the delay in paying the money that was in your hands to Mr Pearce, or into the Bank of Alexandria, agreeably to the letter I wrote you from Mount Vernon in October last; especially as you had been advised of my wanting it. There is no propriety, and less safety (from Robbery fire & a variety of accidents) to retain the money until every Rent is received; for upon this principle I shall be unable to form any estimate of my dependence. Paying the money, & settling the Rental, are distinct things; The first may be paid at any time, and will always stand as a credit in the Rental; the latter, may be delayed with less inconvenience; but here also, there ought to be a periodical Settlement; that regularity may pervade the system.\n          The demands upon me for money, for one purpose or another, are frequent and great; for which reason, it is, at all times, convenient for me to know what my resourses are. for this reason also,\nI wish you had mentioned the amount of your collection\u2014If a good & safe opportunity presents, to lodge it in the hands of Mr Pearce, or at the Bank of Alexandria I wish it to be done so: if not, it may remain until I come home; and the whole be accomplished at once. But, at this time, to say when that will be, is beyond my Ken; as I can form no better judgment now, of the close of the present Session of Congress, than I was able to do at the hour of its commencement. And till that happens, & perhaps for some short time after, I may not have it in my power to leave the seat of Government. If you, however, will point out the mode by which my letters to you will find a safe conveyance, it will be in my power to give you timely information of my departure from hence.\n          I would have you place no further dependence on what Muse has said, of Colo. Simms\u2019s opinion, respecting the invalidity of my Leases, than to obtain other, and the best advice thereon; for which purpose send to your Cousin Bushrod Washington, one of each kind (for I think there are different forms) of the printed Leases, and request him, and General Marshall both, to consider, & give you there opinions in writing with respect to the general correctness; & more particularly with respect to my right of enforcing the Covenants, (with damages for past failures) or annuling the leases, and pay them for their opinions. I am very much mistaken, if the draught from which one, if not both, Leases were printed, was not made by a person of as much legal knowledge as Colo. Simms. If the gentlemen before named, shall be of opinion that there is no defect in the leases; and think it safe for you to proceed to enforce, or to annul them; I wish you to be governed by, and follow their advice. Hard indeed would it be upon me, to receive only five or Six pounds a hundred acres, for Lands of a quality equal to that which is renting for five times the sum; and when I thought I had insured valuable improvements on the premises, so as to render the Tenements valuable hereafter, to be cut off from these also; and to have no redress.\n          Persuaded as I am, that you have rented the repossed lots for as much as you could get, I am perfectly satisfied with what you have done with mine, in Frederick & Berkley; altho\u2019 the Rent is lower than what your cousin George Washington (who is now in this city) says he rents Land at.\n          The waste, which has been committed on my reserved Land, is a very serious evil to the tract to which it appertained; as the quantity, originally reserved was scanty; and, under the ci[r]cumstances of the case, there appears to be no remedy. If letting out the part cleared, does not occasion a greater diminution of the Wood & Timber, I shall have no objection to your doing it\u2014but not, if it is to involve that consequence. I perceive by the enclosed, which Mr Airess sent me by Mr George Washington, that another attack is commenced on the said tract. It is his business to prevent incroachment on land in which he has a Leasehold estate; especially as he has it on such advantageous terms; but it may be well for you to have an eye to the matter.\n          With respect to the Land on Deep run, let it remain as it is until I see you. My love to Mrs Lewis in wch your Aunt joins I am Your sincere friend & affe. Uncle\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0446", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 10 March 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n            Treasury Department March 10th 1796.\n          The Secretary of the Treasury has the honour most respectfully to represent to The President of the United States, that several applications have been made by persons charged with the general superintendance and immediate care of the Lighthouses & other establishments for the security of navigation representing the inadequacy of their compensations. After a full examination of the subject in concert with the Commissioner of the Revenue, the Secretary is of opinion that there are good & sufficient grounds for a moderate augmentation of some of the said compensations consistently with the provisions which have been made by the Legislature for the current year, & with the general powers vested in The President by an act of Congress passed on the 7th of August 1789.\n          That the proceedings of the President may appear at one view, the form of an act embracing all the compensations of the\nsuperintendants & Keepers of Lighthouses is herewith submitted to his consideration.\n          The augmentations of compensations proposed are as follow.\n          1st. That the superintendants of Lighthouses shall be allowed a Commission of five percentum instead of one \u214c Centum upon the sums disbursed for the Lighthouses under their superintendence respectively.\n          The saving made by the reduction of the salary lately allowed to the superintendent in south Carolina, will as is supposed provide fully for this increase.\n          2d. It is proposed to allow a commission of two and one half pr centum for the purchase of articles for the Lighthouses generally; this being the rate of Commission allowed commonly in similar private agencies.\n          3d. The proposed augmentation of the salaries of the keepers of the Lighthouses will appear from the annexed statement, and is deemed moderate considering the great increase of the prices of provisions & other necessaries of life. All which is humbly submitted\n            Olivr Wolcott JrSecy of the Treasury.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0447", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 11 March 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          I have the honour to inclose you a letter just received from Gen. Wilkinson with sundry returns and papers shewing the state of the army. With the greatest respect I am Sir your Excellencys Most ob. St\n            James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0448", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 11 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: McHenry, James\n            Philadelphia 11th March 1796.\n          The letters, with their enclosures from Genl Wilkenson, shew in an additional strong point of view, the indispensable necessity of moving the requisite quantity of Provisions & Stores to the upper Posts of the Army, North West of the Ohio. I therefore desire, you will not only make the necessary arrangements with Genl Wayne (to whom the contents of these Papers might be communicated) but direct them to be carried into effect without delay; before the Season for Water transportation is lost.\n          By the returns wch you have laid before me a number of Muskets with Bayonets (3000) are required! Enquire of Genl Wayne on what principle, and for what purpose this demand is made\u2014As also what is become of the Arms of those men whose terms of Service have expired.\n          A great number of Officers appear to be on furlough. One of whom Captn Sedam, since Novr 1791; and another, Captn Heth, since March 1792; these require explanation.\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0449", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 11 March 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          A treaty of peace between the United States and the Regency of Algiers being completed gives operation and effect to the 9th section of the \u201cact to provide a naval armament\u201d which section, enacts \u201cthat if a peace shall take place between the United States and the Regency of Algiers that no farther proceedings be had under this act.\u201d\n          As this event produces a virtual repeal of that act, it becomes from henceforward illegal to create by new orders or measures any new expenditure of money not essential to and required for the fulfilment of contracts made and entered into before this event.\n          It appears also to be within the meaning of the proviso that all orders respecting the building of the Frigates, procuring materials for them, or preparing materials already obtained which can be suspended without intrenching upon any actual contract or engagement should be forthwith suspended.\n          Under this view of the act it is important to know the intention of Congress on this subject as soon as possible. I would submit therefore whether some communication to Congress may not be proper that would bring it before them and hasten a decision. With the greatest respect I have the honour to be Sir your Excellency most obt\n            James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0451", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 12 March 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          I beg leave to subjoin to the names furnished Nicholas Hammond atty at law East Town & Mr Wm Hemsley. The latter possesses mercantile knowlege, is a man of respectability and long standing. The former a good lawyer of great integrity and well esteemed.\n          The inclosed paper respecting the Frigates is that which I mentioned last night.\n          If the letter to Chapin herewith submitted meets your approbation or requires alteration I request it may be made and returned as soon as convenient. Mr Chapin leaves town on monday early. I have thought that circumstances authorise that he should be instructed to observe more \u0153conomy in expenditures and attention to vouchers. With the highest respect I have the honour to be Sr your Excellency\u2019s most ob. & h. st\n            James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0452", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 12 March 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          The Secretary of State respectfully lays before the President of the United States, lists of the names of such persons as his enquiries or personal knowledge induce him to think eligible for the respective objects prefixed to the lists.\n            British Debts\n              Theophilus Parsons\n              Massachusetts\n              Judge Hobart\n              Edward Tilghman\n              Pennsylvania\n              Thomas FitzSimons\n              Gunning Bedford (Judge)\n            Spoliations\n              Christopher Gore\n              Massachusetts\n              Amasa Learned\n              Connecticut\n              James Davenport\n              Egbert Benson\n              Richard Stockton\n              George Gale\n            To ascertain the River St Croix\n              General Knox\n              Massachusetts\n              General John Brooks\n          With regard to the northwestern boundary, measures are to be taken in concert between his Britannic Majesty\u2019s Government in America and the Government of the United-States, for making a joint survey of the upper part of the Missisipi, preparatory to the settlement of the boundary: Hence the Secretary supposes\nit would be premature at this time to name the principal agent or agents on the part of the United States.\n            T. Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0457", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 14 March 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Lear, Tobias\nTo: Washington, George\n          Letter not found: from Tobias Lear, 14 March 1796. On 21 March, GW wrote Lear: \u201cYour letter of the 14th Instant did not get to my hands before Saturday.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0458", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Alexander, 15 March 1796\nFrom: Alexander, William\nTo: Washington, George\n            Carlisle [Pa.] March 15th 1796\n          I find Congress have it in Contemplation to open a land office, for the Sale of the public lands North West of the river ohio, and that a Surveyor General or superintendant will be appointed.\n          I take the liberty to offer myself for that office and should you think me worthy of it, I shall endeavour to do the duty faithfully.\n          I was by warrant under the hand and seal of Mr Hutchins late Geographer to the United States, appointed surveyor of the lower district set apart for satisfying the Military Bounties but as that district is receded to the Indians by General Wayn\u27e8e\u2019s\u27e9 Treaty, that appointment will of Course Cease. And altho, I have been at Considerable Expence and spent some time in attempting to Execute the Warrants then in my hands, yet it is more than probable I shall not receive any recompence. I have\ntake\u27e8n\u27e9 much pains in registering the Military Warrants put into my hands since my first appointment, Which have been upwards of Two thousand, and which the owners are now withdrawing in order (as I suppose) to have registered agreeably to the present Bill before the house\u2014As to my knowledge of the duties of that office, I shall when necessary procure ample Testimony, and if responsibility be required for the faithful performance of the Trust I shall procure to any amount.\n          I know it is scarely possible for you to remember personally all your officers. I could procure many reccomendations from the first officers particularly of the line (Pennsylvania) in wh. I Served in the different Grades of Lieutenant, Captain, Briga\u27e8de\u27e9 Inspector and last a Major\u2014But am desirous to give as little Trouble as may be, for this reason I have only mentioned my Intention of this application to two Gentlemen Colonel Hamilton and Governor Lee. If you should take the Trouble to Enquire at any other Gentleman, Governor St Claire and General Wayne I have the Honour of being known to both but as I have already perhaps consumed too much of your Time I shall therefore add, but that I am with the most perfect respect and Esteem Sir your most Obedient Humble servant\u2014\n            Wm Alexander", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0459", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Elias Boudinot, 15 March 1796\nFrom: Boudinot, Elias\nTo: Washington, George\n            Mint of the United States. March 15th 1796\n          I have carefully examined the Model & Explanation, for milling the Edges of Coin, which I had the honor of receiving by your Order, under Cover from Mr Dandridge.\n          I am happy to report as the Result of that Examination, that the Machine at present in Use, is more simple, more efficient, and much less expensive, both as to original Cost, & Labour in its Operation, than the one proposed by Mr Guyer; indeed I believe that it is scarcely possible to invent a more simple Mode of accomplishing this Part of the coining Business, with equal Expedition and Perfection. I have the Honor to be with the most perfect Esteem Sir, Your most obedient, and very humble Servant\n            Elias Boudinot", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0460", "content": "Title: Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., to James McHenry, 15 March 1796\nFrom: Dandridge, Bartholomew Jr.\nTo: McHenry, James\n            [Philadelphia] March 15. 1796\n          By the Presidents order B. Dandridge respectfully transmits the enclosed papers to The Secy of War; & informs him that the ideas on the subject of them both of The Secy of War & Secy of\nState, are agreeable to those of the President. The President suggests that by consult[i]ng with Genl Wayne perhaps a better distribution of the troops might be had\u2014this however he submits to the Secretary.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0461", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 15 March 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n            Department of State March 15. 1796.\n          The Secretary of State respectfully lays before the President of the United States the draughts of two letters which the secretary proposes to send to Mr Adet to-morrow morning, if they meet the President\u2019s approbation.\n            Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0462", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, 15 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Senate,House of Representatives\n            United States March the 15th 1796.\n          Gentlemen of the Senate, and House of Representatives.\n          By the ninth section of the act entitled \u201can Act to provide a naval armament\u201d it is enacted, \u201cthat if a peace shall take place\nbetween the United States and the Regency of Algiers that no further proceedings be had under this act.\u201d\n          The peace which is here contemplated having taken place, it is incumbent upon the Executive to suspend all orders respecting the building of the Frigates, procuring materials for them, or preparing materials already obtained which may be done without intrenching upon contracts or agreements made and entered into before this event.\n          But inasmuch as the loss which the public would incur might be considerable from the dissipation of workmen, from certain works or operations being suddenly dropped or left unfinished, and from the derangement in the whole system, consequent upon an immediate suspension of all proceedings under it; I have therefore thought adviseable before taking such a step, to submit the subject to the Senate and House of Representatives, that such measures may be adopted in the premises as may best comport with the public interest.\n            G. Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0463", "content": "Title: To George Washington from the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 17 March 1796\nFrom: Commissioners, District of Columbia\nTo: Washington, George\n            Washington 17th March 1796\n          We are informed by Mr White in his Letter by last nights mail that you wish to be informed of the operations in the City during the present winter\u2014We now with pleasure communicate a general outline of our proceedings: and if it be your wish will direct a more full detail with Abstracts from the minutes, contracts and other necessary papers to be made out and forwarded as soon as possible. You have already been informed that our fina[n]ces would scarcely permit us to go on to the close of the building Season, since then very partial fresh supplies having been obtained we have been very much crampt in our affairs\nduring the whole winter. It has been usual to keep the free stone cutters, Carpenters and Sawyers at work during the winter, and without such a regulation it would be impossible to make much progress in setting free stone during the Summer. There have been engaged at the Capitol during the winter in cutting free stone twenty five hands, in the Carpenters hall and Sawing fifteen, Labourers to attend them twenty; At the Presidents house Stone Cutters twelve hands, Carpenters hall thirteen, Labourers to attend them ten; Labourers to attend the Surveyors six constantly. The Labourers not necessarily employed in attending the Stone Cutters, Carpenters, Sawyers and Surveyors have been employed in opening and cleaning such streets and ways as are most necessary for immediate use\u2014The quantity of free stone now cut and lying in the yards are more than sufficient for the operations of the ensuing Season\u2014The estimate of the materials in the Capitol yard prepared and not used as made by Mr Hadfield to be laid before the Committee of Congress amounted to considerably more than fifty thousand Dollars, since which 200,000 Bricks & 500 Tons of free stone have been delivered\u2014The materials in the yard at the Presidents house including the Carpenters work done cannot amount to less than the estimate made by Mr Hadfield\u2014Since the setting in of winter the following contracts have been made; A Contract with John Mitchell for 100 barrells of good sound well fated Pork, packt and weighed in the presence of one of our people in public employment, and delivered in the City at $14 \u214c barrell. The pork has been delivered and paid for, and at a price at least 25 \u214c Cent lower than it now sells for, of very inferior quality\u2014One million of Bricks have been Contracted for and good security given for performance at Six Dollars pr thousand about half a million under last years contract have been delivered in since the commencement of winter\u2014a Contract has been entered into with Messrs Magruders for 1500 bushells of good bolted Indian Meal at 4/4\u00bd \u214c Bushell delivered at the Capitol & presidents house as wanted. This article has since risen to a dollar and that no excuse might be made, the whole of the money advanced tho\u2019 not called for by the Contract. There is every reason to believe that the Gentlemen will fullfil their Agreement: hitherto they have done so.\n          General Lee\u2019s total failure to comply with his contract with\nthe late Board for 100,000 Cubic feet of Timber (out of which something less than 20,000 feet have been delivered in two years) has compelled us to seek a supply else where\u2014A new Contract has been made tho\u2019 not to the extent wished, at an advanced price, the necessary advances have been made, and a partial delivery of the Timber so as to prevent the Sawyers being idle\u2014A Contract has been made to erect a new bridge over the mouth of Rock creek, and the requisite advances for laying in Materials made\u2014In short every material necessary for the ensuing Season (except Lime[)], has been either purchased or Contracted for. Our finances have always been too low to buy this necessary article; and no Contract could be made without a heavy advance\u2014We have a supply for about two months work: the rest of the Season we shall be obliged to buy at the market price, without a certainty of always geting it, tho\u2019 at double the present price.\n          The Surveyors when the weather would permit have been engaged in Levelling the City and taking the Soundings of the river: The Levelling business will be complete so far as we think will be at present necessary by Mid Summer, and which will lessen the expense of the Surveying department at least one half\u2014Dermott has been engaged, when not on the river, in dividing squares, and making copies of those already divided to be delivered to the proprietors\u2014The Surveyors and all others who Superintend the receipts of public materials or superintend any particular object are at length brought to make monthly returns of what has been done the preceding month, which returns are noted on the minutes of the day and filed in the Office\u2014This regulation has been found to have its good effects. When the present year commenced the City was bu[r]thened with a Debt of not less than forty thousand dollars of which thirty thousand are due to the Bank and the Commissioners are personally responsible for it since the first day of January. We have not received altogether but about eighteen thousand. Several old balances of long standing have been paid off\u2014New debts have been constantly accumulating on us without a possibility of our preventing it any other way than by stoping our operations. In no winter since the commencement of the City has more been done with so little means. hitherto all have been paid or quieted, and if a speedy supply could be obtained, our poverty tho\u2019 strongly\nsuspected would not be certainly known\u2014No persons entitled to annual salaries have during the winter asked for more than very partial payment, few have asked for any; All look forward with anxious solicitude for the long hoped for Guarrantee, and if it comes at last it will not be the less joyfully received because so long delayed.\n          We have given the outlines of such objects as we supposed you wished information on, Should further or more particular information be wanted we shall with pleasure forward it\u2014The Carpenters are now engaged in framing the Roof of the Presidents house. we have for some time thought the manner of finishing the interior of that building, which has been proposed, will be too expensive, and will do ourselves the Honor of submitting our Ideas to you on the subject, in the course of next week. We have the honor to be with sentiments of perfect respect & regard Sir, Your most Obt Servts\n            Gusts ScottWilliam Thornton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0464", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William J. Alldridge, 19 March 1796\nFrom: Alldridge, William J.\nTo: Washington, George\n            at Mr Baileys printer 116 Market Street[Philadelphia] Saturday March 19th 1796\n          About a fortnight since I took the liberty of offering myself as a candidate for the office of Assayer at the Mint, in case Mr Richardson should decline it, but, as I am since informed he has determined to retain it, (not having found it so prejudicial to his health as he at first feared,) I have now only to apologize for the trouble I have given You, and to beg I may be permitted to renew the profession I then made of the pleasure it will give me to fulfil the duties of that office, should there happen to be any future occasion for my services.\n          In my conversation with many Gentlemen respecting the mint, and the object of my visit to philadelphia, I have had frequent occasion to speak of, and to shew, the enclosed book (Universal\nMerchant,) and in consequence of the approbation it has met with, am induced, at their instance to reprint it in philadelphia. bringing it down to the present time, for which purpose I am possessed of many documents; and shall avail myself of the friendship of Gentlemen in philadelphia, to obtain whatever I may be deficient in, respecting the United States.\n          I now beg leave Sr, to take the further liberty to leave it with you for perusal previous to my soliciting your patronage and subscription. I shall be happy personally to answer any questions, and to avail myself of any observations you may think proper to make, in all which I shall esteem it an honor conferred on Sr Your most obedt humble Sert\n            Wm J. Alldridge\n            P.S. I shall call on Monday Morning.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0465", "content": "Title: To George Washington from George Lewis, 19 March 1796\nFrom: Lewis, George\nTo: Washington, George\n            Fredericksburg [Va.] 19th of March 1796\n          I received your letter of the 8th Inst. with the inclosed advertisement, and think your determination, in doing nothing decisive with your lands untill September well judg\u2019d, as you observe it will afford time for your terms to be more generally known. you may also in that time obtain such further information respecting them as to make the sale much more advantageous, than by a premature one. I am convinc\u2019d that every week nay every day adds to there value, of this I am the more convinced from the information of two Gentlemen of respectabillity that were with me last week (residents of Kentucky) and was assured\nby them that the emigration last summer and fall was much greater than it has ever been, since the settlement of that Country. a great part of them went to Green River, which will certainly add to the value of lands in that quarter. You may rest assured of my communicateing to you at all times, any and every information that I may receive respecting the present (value) and future advantages of your land. at present Military lands on green river are worth 6/ pr Acre. yours ought to be of equal value. there is no reason why it should not, except the difference in title between Military lands, and land obtain\u2019d by State warrants. the Military lands is supposed to be entirely free from those interfereances, which State warrant lands are subject to\u2014as to quallity and other advantages, it must be equal to most lands in that Country, and from every information that I have been able to collect, the title is indisputable.\n          Your Accounts of the rise in value of lands in Kentucky are not without foundation. I have it from good authority in that Country, that lands are worth fifty pr Ct more than they were last spring, and I have not a doubt could you have postponed the sale of your lands still longer it might have been to your interest. however there is no knowing what to do. the land fever is so fluctuating that it may be as well to make sale while good prices can be obtained\u2014I have at length herd from Wodrow the man I supposed to have owned the small tract of land within your survey, and find from his letter that it must belong to some other man of the same name, I shall however make every exertion to find the person that does own it and to purchase it for you if possible.\n          I wrote you by post the 24th of October last in answer to yours of the 13th from Spurriers (on your way to Philadelphia[)] respecting Genl Spotswoods horse, also mentioning one of Colo. Willis\u2019s and there prices, but having never receiv\u2019d any answer to that letter concluded that you had furnished yourself with one, or the prices was so high that you declined purchaseing altogether, and probably it never got to hand\u2014the latter I am inclin\u2019d to beleive, by your makeing no mention of it in your last letter, for fear it should be the case, and you may have attributed it to neglect in me, I have enclos\u2019d you an exact copy of it. having alwayes as you now request retain\u2019d a duplicate of my letters to you\u2014if you are not supplied with a horse, and the prices mention\u2019d in my letter not too extravagant\u2014the same\nhorses may still be had, and I rather suppose somewhat cheaper, as the high price of grain has reduced the price of horses with us considerably.\n          Mrs Lewis unites with me in Love to my Aunt, and accept the sincere respects of Yr Affectionate Nephew", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0466", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Campbell, 20 March 1796\nFrom: Campbell, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n          It is with real regret that I feel myself obliged to resign \u27e8the\u27e9 Office of Attorney for the district of virginia, which I hereby take the liberty to do, and at the same time to make my acknowledgments to you for the honor which you did me by that appointment. I shall prepare myself on my return to virginia, to deliver up the papers in my possession \u27e8r\u27e9elating to the business of the United States, to the gentleman who shall be chosen to succeed me. In resigning this office, sir, I think it right to mention that the emoluments of it are so small, as to make it even injurious to a man in extensive practice to hold it. I should therefore, have resigned it, long ago, but for reasons which it might not be delicate to mention. There is but one thing more, sir, which I have to add, in taking my leave of you, and for that I must beg your excuse; it is to assure you of my sincere respect & attachment, and to offer, with your permission, my earnest wishes to heaven, that you may enjoy many, many years to \u27e8c\u27e9ome, all the happiness which this world can give you. I have the honor to be, sir, truly, your most respectful and obliged humble Servt\n            Alex. Campbell", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0467", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Charles Lee, 20 March 1796\nFrom: Lee, Charles\nTo: Washington, George\n          I have very little doubt, that Mr John Marshall would not act as a commissioner under the treaty with Great Britain for deciding on the claims of creditors. I have been long acquainted with his private affairs and I think it almost impossible for him to undertake that office. If he would, I know not any objection that subsists against him\u20141st He is not a debtor, 2d He cannot be benefitted or injured by any decission of the commissioners\u20143d His being employed as counsel in suits of that kind furnishes no reasonable objection; nor do I know of any opinions that he has published or possesses that might with a view to impartiality, make him liable to be objected to.\n          Mr Marshall is at the head of his profession in Virginia, enjoying every convenience & comfort in the midst of his friends and the relations of his wife at richmond, in a practice of his profession that annually produces about five thousand dollars an average, with a young and encreasing family; and under a degree of necessity to continue his profession for the purpose of complying with contracts not yet performed.\n          I think it probable that Col. Innes would accept of this appointment\u2014of him I cannot speak with as much certainty as I have done of Mr Marshall: But I believe he is neither a debtor nor a creditor\u2014that he will not be benefitted nor injured by any decision of the commissioners, nor do I know of any opinions that he possesses or has published, that would make his impartiality be suspected\u2014He and Mr B. Randolph married sisters\u2014and though Mr B.R. is himself clear of british debts, there are some of his relations much involved\u2014This circumstance affords in my mind no just objection to the appointment of Col. Innes, & the only one which I can think of is his reluctance to business and want of diligence\u2014as the commissioners will have a clerk and sit as judges, I suppose he will if he undertakes this office be sufficiently active for its duties. I am most sincerely and respectfully your friend & humble servant\n            Charles Lee", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0468", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 20 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n            Philadelphia 20th Mar. 1796\n          Your letter of the 13th instt and the reports of the preceeding week came duly to hand yesterday\u2014and will, I presume, do so regularly through the course of the Spring & Summer.\n          I am sensible that by dividing my farms into small tenements I add very much to the consumption of my Timber, (and perhaps of the fuel) until hedges sufficient against every thing but Hogs could be raised (which of quick growing wood might soon be done) but then, I knew also, that if I could seat my land with professed, and real farmers, that the improvements in Buildings, orchards, Hedges, Meadows &ca which they would attend to, would greatly overbalance the disadvantages arising from an extra consumption of Wood in the course of fifteen or 18 years.\n          It was not intended, nor does it appear from either my Advertisement or the terms proposed in the written propositions that I meant to lay the Land off in lots containing precisely a hundred acres. That quantity was only taken as a data to make an estimate upon. By the notifications the whole or any part\u2014by fields\u2014might be let provided enough would engage to take a whole farm as I could not let part, and keep part of one myself.\n          The mode suggested by you for dividing them, may be very good; and I shall receive with satisfaction & pleasure any other ideas which may occur to you in this business: as the whole plan is\nthrown out more with a view of trying what can be done than from an expectation of accomplishing it agreeably to my wishes. In what manner though would you divide River & Union farm into 4 tenements each\u2014D. Run into 3\u2014and muddy hole into two?\n          One great object with me, is to separate the Negros from the Land; without making the condition of the former worse than it now is: whereas, if I was to rent the farm\u27e8s\u27e9 as they now stand, with the Negros &ca on the\u27e8m\u27e9\u2014or divide them, negros &ca as you have suggested there would be a great deal of attention required\u2014and perhaps risque and abuse to be run and after all perpetual complaints perhaps from the Negros that would be hired of ill usage in a variety of ways which would make one uneasy, and defeat in all probability the main objects which I aim at\u2014viz.\u2014tranquillity with a certain income. Notwithstanding these observations, and this explanation of my wishes, I shall be very glad, as I have observed before, to receive any suggestions you may think proper to make; to know the sentiments of others, if they are communicated to you; and to know the propositions of all who make them to you; whether for the whole farms, or large or small parts of them without the Negros &ca\u2014or in the same manner, the Negros & stock going along with the Farms.\n          There seems to be no apprehension in the mind of any one, here, that the price of flour will fall; However as the price is high, & I am unwilling to run any risks I would have you sell mine whenever you can get fifteen dollars pr barrel for it payable in Sixty days\u2014unless you should be advised to the contrary by me or have good cause to believe from something you yourself may see or hear where you are that it will probably be higher in a short time.\n          What ground do you put into Oats at Mansion house, and at the farms, this Spring? And when do you begin seeding them? Would the waste part of the Inclosure that was in Corn last year at the Mansion House bring Oats? Upon reflection, if it goes into corn this year, it will require a fence between it and the other part, which is in small grain; or, no use can be made of the latter until all that would be in Corn at that place wd be equally at liberty.\n          Is there no work in the shop (drawing shingles & such like) in which Carpenter James could be usefully employed. He is a very\nworthless fellow; indeed I have sometimes suspected that he cuts himself on purpose to lay up. for something or another of this sort is constantly happening to him\u2014In Harvest, he is sure to get a cut in the beginning of it, so as to lay him up during the continuanc\u27e8e\u27e9 of it. I wish you well & remain Your friend\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0472", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 21 March 1796\nFrom: Lear, Tobias\nTo: Washington, George\n            Washington [D.C.] March 21st 1796\n          Desireous, on every account, to have the business relative to the Arsenal on this River closed, it was my intention to have set off tomorrow morning for Philadelphia, in order to ensure its completion on the first day of April, as that is the day fixed for the public to take possession of the premises; but last evening my dear Fanny was violently attacked by \u27e8a pleuretic\u27e9 complaint, which appears to have increased today, and this morning Maria was laid up with the same disorder. The Physician assures me that there are no alarming symptoms in Fanny\u2019s case; but I shall be distressed \u2019till it is removed; Should it happily be so in the course of this week, I shall pursue my plan of going to Philada where I have also some business of my own to transact. I shall therefore defer answering your respected favor of the 13th instant, so particularly as I should otherwise do. At present I shall only express the heartfelt satisfaction which I experienced in your approbation of my proceedings relative to the business up the River, and assure you that I shall never cease to value that as the highest reward I can receive for any thing I may do.\n          I beg to be presented to Mrs Washington in terms of the highest respect & that you will beleive me to be ever your respectful, affectionate & devoted friend\n            Tobias Lear.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0473", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 21 March 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          The Secretary of State respectfully returns to the President his report on the claims of the Cohnawagas, or Seven Nations\nof Canada, with the draught of a letter which he thinks proper to go from the department of war, with the report, to the Governor of New-York. The Secretary also transmits a press copy of the report, to be lodged in the war-Office, which will enable the Secretary of War to dispatch the original this day by post. The Governor may then be prepared to give an answer to the deputation as soon as they reach New-York. And it is of consequence to the deputation not to be detained in that city; because the Commissioners of the State, at the treaty, told the Cohnawagas that they were not to reckon on the State to defray the expences of any more of their deputations.\n          The Secretary supposes it will be necessary to make a present of two hundred and fifty or three hundred dollars to Colo. Lewis and the rest of the deputies, to enable them to return to Cohnawaga. And if this be given them to-day, they may certainly leave this city to-morrow-morning. Mr Francis, on notice, will have their passages engaged.\n            Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0474", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Bushrod Washington, 21 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Washington, Bushrod\n            Philadelphia 21st March 1796\n          Presuming that you have received my last, sent thro\u2019 the hands of Mr Keith, with such aids as he was able to afford you respecting my Administration of Colo. Colvils estate, and supposing, as the Chancery term is closed or about to close, that the enclosed letter from that Gentleman would not get to your hands in time to influence your measures I resolv\u27e9ed, at first, not to send it. \u27e8But upon second\u27e9 thoughts have changed my mind; lea\u27e8ving it\u27e9 to chance, and your own Judgment, to give it the best effect of which the information is susceptible. My best wishes attend you\nand Mrs Washington. And with sincere regard and friendship I am\u2014Your Affectionate Uncle\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0475", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 22 March 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n          Letter not found: to Alexander Hamilton, 22 March 1796. On 24 March, Hamilton wrote GW: \u201cI had the honor to receive yesterday your letter of the 22.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0476", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Uzal Ogden, 22 March 1796\nFrom: Ogden, Uzal\nTo: Washington, George\n          I beg your Acceptance of a Publication (which I have taken the Liberty to inscribe to you) designed to check the Progress of Infidelity and Vice, and to promote the Interests of Truth and Virtue. I shall be happy if the Work shall be honored with your approbation, and am, with sincere & great Esteem, Dear Sir, Your most obedient and very humble Servant\n            Uzal Ogden", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0477", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 22 March 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n            Treasury Department March 22d 1796.\n          The Secretary of the Treasury respectfully transmits to The President of the United States two letters of the 29th of December 1795 & 22d instant (the latter being explanatory of the first) received from the Commissioner of the Revenue, on the subject\nof a claim made against the United States by George Hooper Esqr. of North Carolina, for his services in inspecting the building & procuring supplies for the Lighthouse at Cape Fear.\n          From the representation made by the Commissioner of the Revenue relative to this business, it appears, that Mr Hooper had rendered services other than that of inspecting the building of the Lighthouse, and for which he is entitled to an equitable allowance. The Secretary is therefore of opinion that if Mr Hooper receives two hundred and fifty Dollars in full for all services rendered by him, it cannot be deemed an unreasonable compensation. All which is respectfully submitted.\n            Oliv: Wolcott JrSecy of the Treasury", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0478", "content": "Title: From George Washington to John Adams, 23 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Adams, John\n            Wednesday Morning 23d March 1796\n          I thank you for giving me the perusal of the enclosed. The details are interesting. The Picture is well drawn; and, it is to be feared, too well founded in facts. With very sincere esteem and regard I am Your Obedt & Affecte\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0479", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Sarah Green, 23 March 1796\nFrom: Green, Sarah\nTo: Washington, George\n            Alexandria [Va.] March 23d 1796\n          I am Sorry that I have to trouble you once more in craving your Assistance but my Situation and Distress is such as induces me to intrude on your Generossity Myself and Children have\nbeen for some time sick and still continue so; if you please consider my Distress and helplesness and send me what relief you may please to think proper your past kindness to me gives me a hope that you will still Regard the petition of your Humbe Sert\n            Sarah Green", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0480", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 23 March 1796\nFrom: Lear, Tobias\nTo: Washington, George\n            Washington [D.C.] March 23d 1796\n          All I can do at this time is to acknowledge the receipt of your respected favor of the 21st instant, with its enclosures. The situation of Mrs Lear is such at present as to occupy my mind & my attention. To the within letter I refer for particulars, and trust to your goodness to excuse the brevity of this; assuring that I shall take the first moment in my power to attend to the matters mentioned in your two last favors, and give you a particular detail respecting them. With sentiments of the purest respect & most sincere attachment, I am, my dear Sir, Your affectionate friend & servant\n            Tobias Lear.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0482", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James Monroe, 24 March 1796\nFrom: Monroe, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          You will decypher this by the publick cypher in the hands of the Secry of State.\n          A letter from you to Gr Morris inclosed to Mr Deas has fallen by some accident into the hands of the Directoire. It contains five or six pages. Is said to be very confidential, authorizing\ncommunications with Lord Grenville, &c. The person who told me of it and who read it, says it has produced an ill effect. He adds, that you say you have kept no copy of the letter. I mention this that you may be aware of the fact, upon the idea it may be useful and cannot be hurtful.\n          My publick communications are so full that I have little to add here especially as Dr Brokenborough will present this a sensible young man who has been here thro\u2019 the winter. with great respect & esteem I am dear Sir very sincerely yr very humble Servant\n            Jas Monroe", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0483", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 24 March 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n            The Secretary of State has the honor to lay before the President of the U. States this day received from Mr Adams & Mr Deas.\n            Mr Bond informs the Secretary, that neither Major Beckwith nor any other person is coming from Canada on the subject of the posts.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0484", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 24 March 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n            Treasury Department March 24th 1796.\n          The Secretary of the Treasury respectfully submits to the consideration of The President of the United States a Letter from the Collector of Boston to the Commissioner of the Revenue, with a Letter from the said Commissioner annexed thereto, relative to a quantity of oil necessary for the Lighthouse Establishment.\n          From the information contained in those Letters, it appears that the article of oil is very scarce and difficult to be had. It is therefore the opinion of the Secretary, that it will be adviseable to authorise the Collector of Boston to contract with Messrs Jeffry & Russell for the delivery of twenty tons of strained oil at the price of one dollar pr gallon as mentioned in the Collector\u2019s Letter. All which is respectfully submitted.\n            Oliv: Wolcott JrSecy of the Treasury", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0486", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 25 March 1796\nFrom: Jay, John\nTo: Washington, George\n          Govr Jay presents his respectful Compliments to the president of the United States, & takes the Liberty of sending the enclosed Copy of a Letter which he this Day recd from Mr S. Bayard.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0487", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Elizabeth Parke Custis Law, 25 March 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Law, Elizabeth Parke Custis\nTo: Washington, George\n          Letter not found: from Elizabeth Parke Custis Law, 25 March 1796. On 30 March, GW wrote to Law: \u201cMelancholy as the event is, on which you wrote the 25th instant.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0488", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 25 March 1796\nFrom: Lear, Tobias\nTo: Washington, George\n          Afflicted as I am, I have thought it my duty to write the enclosed, which will communicate an event that must be\ndistressing to you, my dear friend, as well as to myself. The partner of my life is no more! And I am too much distressd at this moment to add more than to assure you that tho my life now is not worth preserving, yet as it is, it is most sincerely & devotedly your\u2019s\n            Tobias Lear.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0490", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 26 March 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n          I perceived by the News Paper that the resolution has been carried I have not been idle as far a\u27e8s\u27e9 my situation would permit but \u27e8it\u27e9 will not be in my power as I had hoped to send you what I am preparing by this day\u2019s Post. The next will carry it It does not however appear necessary that the Executive should be in a hurry.\n          The final result in my mind, for reasons I shal\u27e8l\u27e9 submit in my next is that th\u27e8e\u27e9 Papers ought all to be refused\u2014I am persuade\u27e8d\u27e9 the Communication of the ins\u27e8tructions\u27e9 in particular would do ha\u27e8rm\u27e9 to The President & to the Govern\u27e8ment\u27e9. Respecty & Affecty", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0491", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Charles Lee, 26 March 1796\nFrom: Lee, Charles\nTo: Washington, George\n            Philadelphia 26th march 1796\n          It is my opinion that the house of representatives have not a right by the constitution to demand and obtain the papers described in their resolution of the 24th instant without the consent of the President.\n          I am not acquainted with those papers, but supposing they contain nothing which may not be disclosed to the public I think it will be expedient under the circumstances of this particular case to comply with the request as to all which preceded the signature of the treaty: & to accompany the compliance with explicit declarations of your opinions upon the propriety of the resolution and upon the right asserted by some of the members to exist in that branch of Congress to complete and ratify a treaty.\n          I beg leave to refer to the paper already furnished as a mode in which a compliance may be made.\n          I will now proceed to state some observations in support of the opinions which I have formed on this important subject.\n          By a clause of the third section of the second article of the constitution the President \u201cshall from time to time give to the congress information of the state of the Union and recommend to their consideration such measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient.\u201d I understand by this that he is to exercise his own discretion as to the manner of giving to congress information of the State of the Union & he is responsible if he fails to do it in a proper manner. This however does not preclude Congress from requesting copies of papers to be laid before them touching a subject properly under their cognisance, if there is reason to believe there is a probability of obtaining any that may be useful and which at the same time may with propriety be communicated to them; but the president has a right to decide for himself whether he will comply with such request.\n          The house of representatives has generally from the nature of its functions a right to demand from the President such statements of the transactions in any of the executive departments as they shall conceive necessary or useful in forming their laws, and there may be occasions when the books and original papers should be produced: for instance to sustain an impeachment commenced or to discover whether there be any malversation in office which might require impeachment\u2014But it does not therefore follow that this branch of Congress possesses a right to demand and possess without the consent of the President copies of all the instructions and documents in his custody relative to any subject whatsoever, whenever they shall be pleased to require them. On the contrary it is my opinion that he may withhold from them the confidential communications between foreign ministgers and our own on the subject of a treaty either pending or finally concluded when in his judgment he shall think it best; and that he is bound by the consideration of good faith to the foreign minister & perhaps to our own so to do on some occasions.\n          When it has been asked for what purpose the papers are to be used, it has been answered to enable the house to determine, first whether the laws contrary to the treaty should be repealed, and secondly whether they ought to make appropriations of\npublic money for carrying it into effect. Neither of these objects warrant the resolution.\n          As to the first I do not concur with those who think that a treaty made between the United States and a foreign nation by the President by and with the advice and consent of two thirds of the Senate, requires the sanction of the house of representatives to give to it validity, though there be stipulations in it contrary to precedent laws and though money be requisite for the performance of it. It seems scarcely denied by any that the people have vested the authority to make treaties on the part of the United States in the President by and with the advice of two thirds of the senate, for this has been done in express Words. But is this authority vested there exclusive of the participation of the house of representatives. I think it is for the following reasons\n          1st because a power to participate or co-operate in the making of treaties is not given to that branch of Congress in express terms.\n          2d Because if this branch is by construction to be allowed to participate in making one treaty, the same reasoning would extend its power to all, even a treaty of mere peace and in the convention who formed the constitution it was proposed that [\u201c]no treaty should be binding that was not ratified by law,\u201d and the proposition was rejected.\n          3d Because under the former confederation the whole treatypower resided in a body composed of representatives of each State, like unto the present senate, and in the formation of treaties each state possessed an equal vote, which equality the smaller states considered as essential to their political preservation\u2014So they considered their equality in the Senate when they agreed to the new constitution; and in putting construction on it, regard should be had to the preceding form of government; and that should be adopted in doubtful cases which innovates the least, and tends most to the safety of the Integral parts of the confederacy.\n          4th because it seems to have been generally understood in the state conventions who adopted the constitution that this branch had no participation in the making of treaties; and this understanding has been confirmed by constant and uniform experience to the present day.\n          To make a contract and to perform it after it has been duly\nmade are obviously very different things; If the treaty with great britain in its present state of ratification is a complete contract binding on the United States, it is their own act and possesses every power which a treaty made by the nation can possess. But a treaty made by the constituted authority of a nation for that purpose becomes a law: if a law it must possess all the power of a law; and consequently a power to supercede or repeal all laws anterior & contrary thereto. Hence it is manifest that if a treaty contains any stipulations inconsistent with acts of the Legislature, it supercedes them. If a nation has a law and makes a treaty by which it is agreed that the law shall thereafter cease, it exercises a power which it hath to repeal its own laws. By their own authority they made the law\u2014by the same they repeal it.\n          This general proposition is further supported by Vattel who in book 4. section 24 says \u201cthat a treaty of peace binds the contracting parties from the moment of its conclusion as soon as it had passed through all its forms\u201d and in section 25 that \u201con the publication the treaty becomes a law to the subjects and they are obliged to conform to the articles stipulated therein: if for instance the treaty imports that one of the two nations shall abstain from a particular trade every subject of that nation from the time of its being made public is to renounce that trade.\u201d\n          In the controversy between the United States and great Britain touching the inexecution of the treaty of peace, the American minister maintains that a legislative repeal of the laws of the states contrary to the treaty was not necessary \u201cfor that it was at all times perfectly understood that treaties controuled the laws of the states the confederation having made them obligatory on the whole.\u201d See the recapitulation of Mr Jefferson\u2019s letter section 56.\n          If the laws of the states under the old confederation were repealed by a treaty, I infer that a law of the United States ought to be deemed repealed by a treaty of the United States and it is immaterial by whom as the rightful instruments of the nation, the one or the other is made.\n          I admit that in England where their usage is their constitution, it is the established usage to repeal by a legislative act any law in opposition to a treaty\u2014But this proves nothing more than this is an exception to the general rule and arises out of their\ngovernment\u2014and a treaty as well as a law must be conformable to the constitution of every country that has one.\n          Thus independent of that clause of our constitution in the sixth article declaring a treaty made under the authority of the United States to have the efficacy of a law it seems to me upon general principles to have that efficacy, and this persuasion is confirmed in some degree by that clause.\n          As to the second object of the resolution, I do agree that the treaty cannot be performed without an appropriation of money which is under the power of that house of congress. But I do not perceive what aid can be derived from the papers to this end, unless it be intended not to perform the treaty. A treaty is to be executed with good faith and \u201cthe injury that a nation may sustain from a treaty is not a justifiable reason for such a nation to refuse complying with its conditions.\u201d Martens Law\u2014page 52\u2014If any reasons will excuse a breach of treaty, they must be different from those which may be collected out of the documents which concern the negotiation and therefore on this ground the house of representatives are not conceived to have an undeniable right to the possession of those papers.\n          The resolution by the generality of its expressions comprehends papers which properly belong to those only whose assent is requisite to the validity of a treaty and not to those who have a power respecting the performance of it only in which light I consider the house of representatives to stand.\n          As to the expediency of the communication, time will not permit me to go into that subject minutely, and especially as I am a stranger to the papers, my opinion is given under much disadvantage as to this point and is founded on general Ideas. I am with the most profund and sincere respect your most obed. servant\n            Charles Lee", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0492", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 26 March 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          In compliance with your note of the 25 instant I beg leave to submit the following opinions on the queries it proposed.\n          1. Whether the house of representatives hath or hath not a right to call upon the President of the United States for certain papers relative to the negociation of the treaty with Great-Britain.\n          2. Whether if it does not possess the right, it would be expedient under the circumstances of this particular case to furnish them?\n          3. And in either case what terms would be most proper to comply with or refuse the request?\n          As to the first. The right to make treaties appears exclusively vested in the President and Senate by the words used to convey the right. The words are, \u201che (the President) shall have power by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, to make treaties, provided two thirds of the Senators present concur.\u201d It is not that the President shall, with the advice and consent of the Senate make treaties of a particular kind, but \u201ctreaties,\u201d that is treaties of every kind and description For, Had a particular kind been intended, or but a few species only, the generic term which comprehends all the varieties would not have been selected.\n          So far this right appears to be exclusively vested in the President and Senate. It follows then that when a treaty is made, and contains a promise to do a thing, or to forbear from doing a thing, it is a promise made for the whole nation, consequently whatever is necessary to be done or forborn by the people or by any department of government to fulfil that promise cannot be refused without a violation of the national faith.\n          In this detached view of the subject the house can have no right to demand the papers, because a treaty which becomes binding without their privity and consent can give it no claim to the inspection of such papers. If papers that respect a treaty are ever laid before the house upon such a request it must be because the President shall judge such a communication expedient from the circumstances of the time, to avoid a public evil or to obtain a public good.\n          As to the powers vested in Congress which may seem connected with this question and to clash with the exclusive right in the President and Senate to make treaties, it may be observed.\n          1. Although the constitution declares \u201call legislative powers herein granted, shall be vested in a congress of the United States,\u201d the legislative powers of Congress are not therefore\nlike the legislative powers of a British Parliament illimitable or undefined, becoming thereby capable to be applied and bear upon every object of government; but defined and contracted by express limitations restrictions and prohibitions beyond which Congress cannot proceed without a violation of the constitution or running into usurpation.\n          2. Besides, the limitations restrictions and prohibitions to the powers that may be exercised by Congress contained in the 8 & 9 sections of the 1st article of the constitution, these powers are further abridged and restricted by prohibitions and reservations in different parts of the instrument, and by the powers vested in particular departments or officers trenching upon and limiting these powers.\n          3 Every restriction upon the powers of Congress is an absolute exclusion of the right to legislate upon the object restricted.\n          To give examples. By article the 1st: sect. 8 Congress have power to raise and support armies and to make all laws proper to carry this power into execution. By article the II. this latter power which is coextensive with the full completion of the object is abridged by an express assignment of the power to appoint officers to the President and Senate, a power abolutely necessary to carry the power to raise and support armies into execution, and without which they could neither be raised nor supported.\n          By art. 1. sect. 8 Congress have power to regulate commerce with foreign nations, and power to make all laws proper to carry this power into execution. This power to regulate commerce with foreign nations is in like manner restricted by the power given to the President & Senate to make treaties with foreign nations, a power expressly comprehending regulations of commerce.\n          It is deemed unnecessary to carry this illustration further, the examples stated being sufficient to shew the principle they establish, vz. that wherever a specific or generic power is expresly vested in an officer or department by the constitution, just so much power is taken from the powers vested in Congress.\n          This is thought to be a sound construction, because it keeps the treaty making power where it is expresly and literally lodged; because from the nature of that power it is more properly lodged with a few than with many, and because were it participated in by the house of representatives in which the States are unequally represented, it would comport less with their safety and\nsovereignty than by being vested in that branch where each State is equally protected by having an equal number of Senators, circumstances which severally considered evince that the spirit of the constitution in this respect accords with the letter.\n          If the reverse construction is assumed vz. that the powers vested in Congress by art. 1. Sect. 8 limit the treaty making power to objects not comprised or included in these powers it would result from thence that the treaty making power is a nullity, because the powers vested in Congress by art. the 1. comprehend almost every object that can enter into the composition of treaties. This therefore cannot be a good construction because it would defeat one principal end of the instrument.\n          If it is said that the house of representatives have a participative right in treaty making from whence is it derived? If from construction, that can never be set up against positive and declared right. If from the power given to Congress to regulate trade with foreign nations, that cannot be construed into a power to make treaties. If from the power to grant money, which implies a discretion to give or withhold, such discretion cannot be rightfully exercised to the violation of a compact entered into by those having a right to make it, by a branch possessing no such right.\n          On none of these grounds then have the house of representatives a right to call for the papers, because they have neither a right to make treaties nor a right to violate them when made.\n          But as the house of representatives are vested with \u201cthe sole power of impeachment\u201d has it not a right as an incident of that power to call for papers respecting a treaty when the object is impeachment? I would presume that it has; but to legitimate such a call the object ought to be explicitly and formally announced. Where it is not, it is not to be presumed.\n          I conclude that the house has no right to make the call for papers in the naked form it appears in, and having no right, that there can arise no obligation to comply, which is not imposed by a different cause or by a sense of the public good.\n          It may now be remarked that the giving or withholding the papers can neither establish nor nullify the position couched under the resolution that the house have a right to call for them, because the resolution being disconnected with any declared constitutional object that might seem to require the papers,\nleaves the President at perfect liberty to exercise his negative should he think proper. Being therefore left at liberty to use his discretion, whichever way it is exercised can make very little either in favour or against the position. Were indeed the treaty in discussion, and had the house sent for these papers, as for a scale wherwith to decide upon its merits, a simple compliance with the request without note or commentary would be susceptible of a more pointed application. As it comes forward however it cannot be construed as having the same force, unless as connected with the probable ulterior intentions of the house.\n          In this point of view then to give or to withhold the papers becomes a question of expediency.\n          If the papers are withheld, the party in the house opposed to the treaty may shelter their refusal to carry it into effect by assigning this as a reason for their vote, and thus endeavour to get rid of the responsibility attached to refusal. The papers being withheld may also give poignancy to all the fictions which have been so industriously propogated on this subject, and may make even good men to wish that no insurmountable obstacle had opposed their communication.\n          It is worthy too of consideration, whether in a government like ours a freer communication in such cases than is usual in a country where the Executive and one branch of government are hereditary, is not a matter of policy if not of propriety.\n          On the whole I incline to the opinion that the papers may be communicated without a conceding of the principle that the house has a right to demand them, and that by communicating them more good is likely to result than present or future inconvenience.\n          The right of the house being disavowed what terms would be proper to refuse the request?\n          It does not strike me that the chain of argument which the case embraces ought to be adopted, because it might involve a series of unprofitable and unpleasant discussions between the house and Executive, and because it is in the nature of every argument to be susceptible of reply. A simple declaration of the opinion that the treaty making power is vested exclusively in the President and Senate with such observations on the nature of negociations between nations as may serve to shew the\nimpolicy of exposing such papers might possibly obviate altercation, while some impressive reasons might be added to lead the house to make the appropriations necessary to give it effect.\n          In the case of communicating the papers without yielding to the call as a right the same course would perhaps be the least subject to objection.\n          The answer might assume a turn like the following.\n          That the request contained in the resolution of \u2014\u2014 has received his deliberate consideration.\n          That certain opinions which have been published as having been delivered in debate upon the resolution afford ground for a belief that there is an intention in some of its advocates to contend that the house of Representatives hath a concurrent or negative power with the President & Senate over treaties, and to infer an acknowlegment of the right from a compliance with the request.\n          That having sworn to protect the constitution he feels himself called upon to stay as far as in his power the progress of a doctrine which if carried into practice wuld produce a radical change in the constitution of the United States without the intervention of the mode it prescribes to obtain alterations.\n          That inasmuch as he believes the right to make treaties to be exclusively vested in the President and Senate by the constitution, as he knows such to have been the sense of the Convention which framed it; and as government have followed this construction in practice, it becomes his duty to protest against any thing tending to establish a different construction of the instrument.\n          That being the sole judge of what or whether any papers ought to be laid before the house at this juncture, he has annexed such documents and correspondence relative to the negociation of the treaty lately concluded with Great Britain as in his opinion may be communicated consistently with foreign relations and the interests of the union.\n          That as the treaty requires certain appropriations of money to be made which can neither be refused without a violation of national faith, nor yet delayed beyond a certain time without involving the most important consequences he trusts that the house will give the subject the earliest attention.\n          That to enable the house to appreciate the value of the\nmoment he has subjoined an extract of a letter from Mr Adams &c. The above is respectfully submitted\n            James McHenrySecy of War", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0493", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 26 March 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n            Treasury Department March 26th 1796\n          The Secretary of the Treasury in obedience to the command of the President of the United States, respectfully submits his opinion, upon certain questions arising out of the following case.\n          On the 24th instant the following Resolution was passed in the House of Representatives of the United States.\n          \u201cResolved that the President of the United States be requested to lay before this House a Copy of the instructions given to the Minister of the United States who negociated the Treaty with Great Britain communicated by his Message of the 1st instant, together with the correspondence & documents relating to the said Treaty; excepting such of said papers as any existing negociation may render improper to be disclosed.\u201d\n          The general question to be considered is this, whether it be or be not expedient for the President to comply in whole or in part with the request contained in said resolution?\n          The importance of this question may be inferred from the unqualified terms of the Resolution which clearly assert a right on the part of the House to demand the instructions and documents relating to the negociation of a ratified Treaty.\n          It has been urged with great force in the course of the debate, that the House of Representatives has a right to judge of a Treaty which affects objects upon which Congress can constitutionally legislate and that their co-operation & sanction are necessary to make it the Law of the Land.\n          This position has been supported by the following construction which has been given to the Constitution.\n          That the power of making Treaties without the co-operation of the House, though expressed in general terms, is in fact\nlimited by that part of the Constitution which defines the legislative power, or power of Congress: thus though it seems to be admitted that if a Treaty did not operate upon any objects of legislation delegated to Congress, it might be valid without the consent of the House of Representatives, yet in cases where the aid of the Legislature is necessary to give effect to a Treaty, or where a Treaty acts upon any objects of Legislation, the Sanction of the House is necessary and may be given or witheld according to the judgement formed by them of its expediency.\n          This construction evidently gives to the House of Representatives a negative voice or concurrent authority with the President & Senate, in respect to the Treaty lately negociated with Great Britain, and as it is presumed can be shewn, in respect to all Treaties whatever.\n          This important question then arises. Has a Treaty made by the President, with the advice and consent of two thirds of the Senators who may be present in Session, the force and obligation of Law, without the consent of the House of Representatives?\n          To a right Judgement upon this question a review of the public Acts and proceedings of the United States in respect to the obligation of Treaties appears to be proper.\n          The ninth Article of the late confederation empowered the United States in Congress assembled to enter into Treaties & Alliances provided that no Treaty of Commerce should be made whereby the legislative power of the respective States should be restrained from imposing such imposts & duties on foreigners as their own people should be subjected to, or from prohibiting the exportation or importation of any species of goods or Commodities whatever.\n          Thus it appears that although Congress under the Confederation, had no legislative powers whatever, and though they possessed no authority to regulate the general Interests of Commerce by any internal regulations or even to restrain the clashing systems of the seperate States; yet the power of forming commercial Treaties with foreign nations was expressly given and actually exercised.\n          The sense entertained by Congress of the obligation of Treaties is manifested by the following Resolution which was unanimously adopted on the 21st of March 1787.\n          \u201cResolved that the Legislatures of the several States cannot of right pass any Act or Acts for interpreting explaining or\nconstruing a national Treaty or any part or clause of it: nor for restraining, limiting or in any manner impeding retarding or counteracting the operation & execution of the same, for that on being constitutionally made, ratified & published, they become in virtue of the Confederation part of the Law of the Land, and are not only independent of the power & will of such Legislatures, but also binding and obligatory on them.\u201d\n          On the 13th of April 1787, a Circular letter to the States was unanimously agreed to in Congress, in which the principles of the resolution before recited are fully demonstrated.\n          The documents annexed to Mr Jefferson\u2019s letter to Mr Hammond dated the 29th of May 1792 shew that the States of New-Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New-York, Delaware, Maryland, and North Carolina passed Laws in compliance with the resolution of Congress and that New-Jersey & Pennsylvania declared that no Law existed with them contrary to the Treaty with Great Britain. It also appears that respectable Official Characters in several of the States declared that the principles set forth in the resolution of Congress had been generally recognised. Among these authorities that of Mr Monroe deserves notice, especially as the Representatives of Virginia strenuously contend at present for the claim asserted in the House of Representatives.\n          Mr Jeffersons opinion of the obligation of Treaties and of the general sense of the States is decidedly expressed in the letter before referred to; his words are, that the Resolution of Congress of March 21st 1787 requiring a repeal of all Acts contrary to the Treaty of Peace, and the proceedings of the States thereupon were all supererogation, for that \u201crequiring such a repeal was only to take away pretext; for that it was at all times perfectly understood that Treaties controulled the Laws of States; the confederation having made them obligatory on the whole; Congress having so declared & demonstrated them; the Legislatures & Executives of most of the States having admitted it; and the Judiciaries of the separate & State Governments so deciding.\u201d\n          These facts will it is believed warrant the following conclusions.\n          1st That it was the general sense of the people of this Country that the power of making Treaties vested in Congress by the Articles of Confederation was capable of controlling the Legislative powers which then existed in the United States.\n          2nd That Treaties constitutionally made, ratified and published possessed in virtue of their own powers the force and obligation of Laws.\n          3d That embarrassments having been experienced in consequence of the non execution of the Treaty of Peace, the Convention which framed the Constitution must have intended such an organization & deposit of the power of making Treaties as would render its exercise at once safe & efficacious.\n          A summary view of the structure of the Government proposed by the Convention and of the distribution of its powers is next proposed.\n          All Legislative powers granted to the General Government are declared to be vested in a Congress; which Congress is to consist of a Senate & House of Representatives.\n          The general powers of Congress are given or to be deduced from a collective construction of the eighth, ninth & tenth sections of the first Article\u2014some powers are indeed given by other Articles, but they are not of a nature to require consideration at this time.\n          The eighth Section defines certain objects over which Congress shall have power, but the design of this definition was clearly nothing more than to discriminate between the powers of Legislation which were to be exercised by the General Government and those which were to remain in the State Governments.\n          The ninth Section contains a denial of some powers, not proper to be exercised and limitations upon others vested in Congress by the preceding Section\u2014The main design of the Section was clearly to prevent the assumption of certain powers by implication and accurately to define others, which had been granted in general terms.\n          The tenth Section contains a denial of some powers to the respective States and limitations upon others\u2014the prevention of disputes respecting a supposed concurrent jurisdiction over Objects, the regulation of which, it was intended to confide exclusively to the General Government was a principal inducement in framing this Section.\n          An Analytical view of these Sections therefore proves that the great object of that part of the Constitution which defines the Legislative power was to fix the limits of Jurisdiction between the General and State Governments\u2014the distribution of power\nbetween the Departments of the General Government, is to be found by a very different course of enquiry.\n          As however it is pretended that the Executive Department cannot without the concurrence of Congress definitively make Treaties which limit or controul the objects of Legislation, it may be proper to enquire how far Congress possesses exclusive jurisdiction over objects clearly within their sphere of authority.\n          The power of raising revenue is one of the most important possessed by Government, yet this may be exercised indefinitely, over most objects, both by the General & State Governments\u2014the fact is more generally true than otherwise, that where there are no words which give exclusive Jurisdiction, the jurisdiction is concurrent: As some very important powers vested in Congress are in fact concurrent with the State Governments, it does not follow either from the reason of the definition of the powers vested in Congress, or the strict letter of the Constitution, but that other powers may be concurrent with particular Departments of the General Government.\n          The Second Article of the Constitution declares that the Executive power of the Government shall be vested in a President of the United States of America; in the specification of Executive powers that of making Treaties is expressly mentioned, but this power like most others is subject to the controul or negative voice of the Senate\u2014that is, a Treaty cannot be valid, unless it be made by the President, by & with the advice & consent of two thirds of the Senators present\u2014In other words the President in respect to Treaties is to initiate or perform an inchoative Act the completion of which is reserved to the Senate.\n          The obligations resulting from a Treaty are ascertained by the third & sixth Articles of the Constitution, the former of which declares that the judicial power shall extend to Treaties made under the Authority of the United States, and the latter, that such Treaties shall be the Supreme Law of the Land.\n          Here it may be asked, what are Treaties? the Answer is, that they are Compacts between Sovereign and independent States, originating in free consent and deriving their obligation from the plighted faith of one nation to another\u2014their Objects are relative to Peace, War, Commerce, and Security.\n          The power of making Treaties, is the same thing as the power of pledging the faith of one nation to another\u2014this power is by the\nConstitution expressly committed to the President, subject to the controul of the Senate\u2014the obligations arising from public faith when pledged by the representative Organ of our nation in all foreign concerns; agreeably to the mode prescribed by the Constitution, are justly and properly declared to be Laws\u2014the Legislative power is bound not to contravene them, on the contrary it is bound to regard and give them effect. If to omit the exercise of the powers committed to any branch of the Government, would be to annul a Treaty; such an omission would be a violation of the Constitution in that branch which refused to Act.\n          An attempt was made in the House of Representatives, in the course of the debate upon the resolution now under consideration, to distinguish between the effect of a Treaty upon a Law of a State and a Law of the United States: there appears however to be no ground for any distinction. In the first place it may be observed, that as all national & external concerns are under the management of the General Government, the Laws of the particular States will hereafter rarely furnish subjects of complaint to foreign nations, and of course rarely be affected by Treaties\u2014to confine the legal operation of Treaties merely to a correction or repeal of State Laws, would be in fact nearly tantamount to a declaration that no Treaty was binding until confirmed by an Act of Congress. Secondly\u2014All Treaties must of necessity operate either to change or to confirm the existing & legal state of things\u2014in either case the power of Legislation must be abridged or directly controulled\u2014the power of Congress to legislate is as effectually limited by the want of a power to repeal as to enact Laws\u2014the Legislative power cannot therefore for this reason, afford a reasonable limitation upon the power of making Treaties.\n          3d A power of making Peace cannot be exercised by Treaty, without repealing an Act for declaring war. If the power of making Treaties exercised in its most simple form, implies of necessity the power of repealing a pre existing Law, there ceases to be any criterion for determining what Laws may & what Laws may not be repealed.\n          It has been enquired\u2014If Treaties possess the power of repealing Laws, what are the limits which restrain the President & Senate from absorbing all the powers of the Legislature? To this question it may be answered that the power of making\nTreaties must of necessity be very indefinite; it must be allowed to be competent to the adjustment of any dispute with a foreign nation under any circumstances; that the power is indefinite is however no proof that it is not fully vested as is contended solely in the President & Senate; that it is capable of abuse is no argument that the House of Representatives possess a controulling authority\u2014Many of the powers vested in Congress are also indefinite\u2014there are no other restraints upon the powers of declaring war, of raising Armies & of equipping Navies, and of Taxation except the virtue & discretion of Congress.\n          It is possible to conceive that Congress may declare war unjustly, may raise Armies & equip Navies for purposes of ambition & may tax immoderately & unwisely: It is also possible to conceive that the President may make & the Senate consent to an unwise Treaty, but neither supposition is any proof that the powers are not vested\u2014nor are the evils which result from the abuse of authority to be entirely guarded against by human wisdom\u2014the greatest abuses may happen under the most restricted forms of Government which have been yet devised.\n          But though Treaties made by the President & Senate, have the force and obligation of Laws in the United States, it is conceived that they are intitled to no precedence over Acts of Congress\u2014the House of Representatives has at any time a power to originate a Bill for declaring war, or for doing any other Act inconsistent with a Treaty, and an Act declaring a Treaty to be void would repeal its legal obligations & afford evidence that the Contract was at an end.\n          In discussing propositions which are at variance with Treaties, the Legislature are under no peculiar restrictions; they are always bound to regard the obligations of Justice, morality & good faith, and their decisions are ever in contemplation of Law presumed to be consistent with these obligations.\n          It is not therefore true as has been said that Treaties cannot repeal Laws and that Laws cannot repeal Treaties, the reverse is true\u2014Statutes & Treaties of the United States, are alike supreme Laws of the Land and the last Act of which ever description will controul the former.\n          It is not intended to assert that Treaties can extend to every object of Legislation, there is no doubt that the forms of the\nConstitution & the powers of the different Departments & Organs of Government are superior to the influence of a Treaty; the limitation of the power of making Treaties, may in some respects be difficult as the exigencies of Society cannot be foreseen, but in respect to matters of mere internal concern, there appears to be nothing upon which the power of making Treaties can operate, in derogation or extension of the power of Legislation.\n          It being assumed as a consequence of the preceding remarks, that Treaties are Laws and that the power of making Treaties is exclusively vested in the President & Senate, it becomes proper to enquire, why this power was so deposited. To this question it may be replied that Secrecy & dispatch are frequently necessary to the successful negociation of Treaties. There being no ground to expect these qualities in a numerous public body, the Executive Department was of course considered as the only proper deposit for this power. Assuming therefore as a position that the Constitution contemplated the necessity of Secrecy & personal Confidence in executive proceedings, it is the right of the President so to administer the Government as to preserve its principles inviolate.\n          The Resolution of the House of Representatives appears to consider the right of reserving public documents as extending only to such as relate to pending negociations\u2014there is however no ground for this distinction\u2014in respect to Treaties already compleated there may and probably do exist many particulars on which good faith & prudence require the observance of Secrecy\u2014At any rate the probability of such cases, renders it proper that the maxims of administration should have reference to their existence.\n          The propriety of a call for papers is moreover rendered doubtful by the duty enjoined upon the President by the Constitution to give to Congress information from time to time of the State of the Union & to recommend to their consideration such measures as he shall judge necessary & expedient. It may be fairly understood to be the sense of the Constitution, that the Presidents declaration of a state of facts is a sufficient ground for the proceedings of Congress\u2014at any rate the presumption ought always to be, that every Department will discharge its duty.\n          Except when an Impeachment is proposed & a formal enquiry\ninstituted, I am of opinion that the House of Representatives has no right to demand papers relating to foreign negociations either pending or compleated.\n          Whether a compliance with the present call be expedient under the peculiar circumstances of the Treaty with Great Britain, is a question which admits of distinct considerations.\n          A compliance considering the lengthy debate which preceded the Resolution and in which the right of the House to controul Treaties was asserted would too much bear an appearance of concession to principles subversive of the just powers of the President & Senate.\n          On the other hand, a refusal would furnish some pretext for Clamour and unjust imputations against the Executive Department & the negociator of the Treaty.\n          If there was reason to believe that a refusal would diminish the public confidence in the Government this would be a powerful argument in favour of a compliance. It is however to be remembered that the public confidence may be as certainly destroyed by a submission to improper demands as by a conduct tending to inspire jealousy.\n          That the public jealousy can be excited to any considerable degree is not probable. It is known to the world that Mr Randolph was acquainted with the whole course of the negociation & that his malignity would prompt him to disclose any measures which could embarrass the Executive will not be doubted\u2014All the Correspondence was submitted to the Senate and is admitted to have been seen; The knowledge of what the papers contain has therefore become too general to admit of the propagation of an opinion, that the President or negociator would be affected by a more full disclosure. The public would therefore in my opinion attribute a refusal on the part of the President to its proper motive, a determination to support the Constitution.\n          For these reasons and others which I have not time to add, it appears to me inexpedient to comply with the call of the House.\n          If the President shall determine not to comply with the Resolution, his Message may contain the following sentiments, which it is believed will justify his decision.\n          That the President has considered the Resolution of the House of Representatives passed on the 24th instant, with all that\nattention & respect which is justly due to a request of the House, and to the importance of a question which in its consequences may affect the Constitution and that a sense of duty requires him to communicate the result of his reflections.\n          That the Constitution has assigned to each Department of the Government distinct powers & that as every Department is equally bound by the Constitution, it is reasonable that in the regular exercise of its proper duties, each, should receive from the others, a proper share of trust and confidence; that the true interests of the people, not only require vigilance & fidelity from all parts of the Administration, but that they also require that the powers which have been delegated to the Government, should be exercised in the mode & by the Organs designated in the Constitution.\n          That among the powers delegated to the Government of the United States is that of making Treaties; and that Treaties made in pursuance of the Constitution possess the validity & obligation of Laws of the Land.\n          That the power of making Treaties is by the Constitution solely vested in the President & Senate of the United States, & that in the distribution of this power between the President & Senate, it is conceived that the right of instituting negociations, of instructing Ministers, and of making or receiving propositions which are to form the basis of Treaties, rests exclusively with the President; that the right of approving or rejecting in whole or in part, all proposals respecting Treaties rests exclusively with the Senate, and that the concurrent assent of the President & Senate agreeably to the Constitution, with a subsequent ratification of the parties concerned & a promulgation according to Law definitively fix the obligations of a Treaty upon the United States.\n          That in the exercise of the duties committed to the President, secrecy & personal confidence are sometimes essential, and that a regard to the public Interests and to the obligations of good faith will not always permit a full disclosure of all documents connected with foreign negociations.\n          That for these reasons & to avoid the consequences of a precedent which would embarrass future intercourse with foreign nations, the President has considered it to be his duty to withold a compliance with the Resolution of the House.\n          In addition to the above observations it may perhaps be proper to state, that all the communications from the Minister of the United States were laid before the Senate for their information. All of which is respectfully submitted\n            Oliver Wolcott JrSecy of the Treas.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0494", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Tobias Lear, 27 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lear, Tobias\n            Philadelphia 27th March\u201496\n          Your letters of the 21st & 23d instant have filled us with pain and anxiety, from which, probably, we shall not be relieved before tuesday; tho\u2019 we shall hope, on that day, to hear that both Fanny and Maria are much better, if not entirely recovered.\n          Upon receipt of the first of the letters abovementioned, I made immediate enquiry in what train the business respecting the arsenal on Potomack was in, and have since been informed by the (present) Secretary of War, that he has written to you on the subject. I wish sincerely that the sickness in your family had not prevented your journey to this City\u2014& that it may not retard it much longer as the Departments at this juncture are so full of business as to require more attention, & urging in particular matters than the pressure of my own allows me to bestow. When you come we will make room for you to lodge in some manner or other as the only spare room we have will, I expect, be occupied by young Fayette & his Tutor.\n          I wish devoutly, in which Mrs Washington cordially unites, that this letter may find Fanny & Maria perfectly restored\u2014My best regards to them and with affection I am always Yours\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0497", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 27\u201329 March 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n          Letter not found: from William Pearce, 27\u201329 March 1796. On 3 April, GW wrote Pearce: \u201cYour letter of the 27th Ulto, with a Postscript of the 29th, came duly to hand yesterday.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0499", "content": "Title: To George Washington from David Forman, 28 March 1796\nFrom: Forman, David\nTo: Washington, George\n            Chester Town Maryland 28th March 179\u27e86\u27e9\n          engaged as you are in public duties, espetially at this important Era it is with diffidence that I beg leave to state to your Excly, that in the fall of the year 1789 I made an adventure and settlement with a considerable Number of Nega Slaves and other property Value of Ten thousand pounds Currancy to the then held as Spanish Cuntry of Louisiana, but within the limmits of the Uniteed States agreeably to the Treaty of Peace with Great Brittain in the year 1783, under the direction of my Brother; he dyed last Summer.\n          His widow and Six Children returned to my protectio\u27e8n\u27e9 last December; leaveing behind them of my property and in the hands of the Spaniards, Near Ninety Negro Slaves Stock &c. to the value of between Twelve and fifteen thousand pounds. for the recovery of which, I propose th\u27e8is\u27e9 spring to go to that Country. By the last treaty with the Court of Spain, I discover that the lands purchased by my Brother, as well as those granted to him by the Spanish Government, Slaves &c. &c. are thrown within the Acknowledged lines of the United States, and I have been led to belive, that if my past servacies would warrant your Excly\nto repose so Mutch Confidence in me, as to authorise and appoint me the Commissioner pointed out by this late Treaty to ascertain the Southern Boundery and receive the territorial possession of those lands, it would very materially aid me in obtaining Justice without in the least interfeering with any public functions that may be assigned me. I have Sir been thus consise in my statement to avoid an improper waste of your time, at this so important a crisis. and Shall I not Sir be pardoned for requesting to be favoured with your Answer for a business so Interesting and important to my Family, and if that appointment is not made, yt I may have the Honour of waiting on you respecting it. I have the Honour to be, with every sentiment of respect Sir your most obdt Humble Servt\n            David Forman\n            P.S. having removed from New Jersey to this place Your Excly will be pleased to direct to me at Chester Town.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0501", "content": "Title: To George Washington from George Washington Motier Lafayette, 28 March 1796\nFrom: Lafayette, George Washington Motier\nTo: Washington, George\n          At the moment in which my Friend and I were making arrangements to go to Philadelphia at your desire and invitation, I received a resolution of the House of Representatives, extremely honorable for my father; it was accompanied by a letter from Mr Livingston, equally obliging for myself.\n          Penetrated with gratitude for this public mark of bounty, as little expected as merited on my part, I answered it in the best manner in my power. Encouraged by the interest which you are pleased to take in what regards me, I hasten to forward to you a copy of the resolution and of the letter which I received, together with my answer.\n          The first desire of my heart being to submit to you every act of mine and to merit your approbation, I venture to request you to point out to me the conduct I should pursue on this occasion, in order to do that which may be most agreeable to you. I have the honor to be, with the most profound respect, sir, your most humble & most obedient servant\n            (signed) G. W. M. Lafayette", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0502", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Thomas Law, 28 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Law, Thomas\n          By letters recd from Hope Park, dated the 22d instt, we are informed that your Marriage with Miss Custis was celebrated the day before.\n          On this pleasing occasion we offer you and Eliza, our sincere, & affectionate congratulations; and vows for the perfect happiness of you both, in the union you have formed.\n          Whether here, or at Mount Vernon we shall always be happy to see you, and at either place when you are there we pray you to consider yourselves at home. With great & sincere regard we remain Your affectionate", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0503", "content": "Title: From George Washington to George Lewis, 28 March 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lewis, George\n          Letter not found: to George Lewis, 28 March 1796. On 9 April, Lewis wrote to GW: \u201cYour letter of the 28th of last month, acknowledging the receipt of my two last letters, I receiv\u2019d.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0504", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 29 March 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n          I wish the enclosed could have been sent in a more perfect State. But it was impossible\u2014I hope however it can be made out & may be useful.\n          It required more time to say all that was proper in a more condensed form.\n          In considering the course to be pursued by the President it may be well he should be reminded that the same description of men who call for the papers have heretofore maintained that they were not bound by any communication in confidence but were free afterwards to do as they pleased with papers sent them. Respect. & Aff.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0506", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 29 March 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n            Department of State March 29. 1796.\n          I have examined the cases mentioned in Mr Livingston\u2019s speech, in which he affects to draw certain conclusions that the President has heretofore admitted, by the nature of his communications to the House of Representatives, that their interference is necessary to the due formation and binding force of treaties: but not one applies to the point. All the instances cited relate to communications prior to the making of the treaties: whereas the object now contended for is, a right to sanction or reject treaties after they are made.\n          Mr Livingston\u2019s first reference is to the message of the 7th of August 1789, in which the President, agreeably to his constitutional duty, gives information of the state of the Union, in relation to the Indian tribes who were committing hostilities on our frontiers. The question depending was doubtless this; Whether offensive war should be made, or pacific measures taken to settle all differences with the southern tribes, by holding a treaty with them? And in case the Congress, instead of making war, should think it \u201cmost expedient to terminate all differences by an amicable treaty,\u201d the President suggests the measure of a temporary commission of three persons to hold it. But as no money had then been provided for such a purpose, the application to Congress was indispensable. The sum of 20,000 dollars was in consequence appropriated, and the pay of the commissioners fixed.\n          On the 22d of July 1790, Congress appropriated the further sum of 20,000 dollars, to defray the expences of holding treaties, maintaining a friendly intercourse, and preserving peace with the Indian tribes.\n          Mr Livingston might have mentioned another appropriation of this kind; it was in 1793; and extended to 100,000 dollars, to enable the President to hold a treaty and make peace with the Indians Northwest of the Ohio.\n          On the 3d of March 1791, the sum of 20,000 dollars was appropriated to effect a recognition of the treaty of the U. States with the Emperor of Morocco.\n          The next case is that of the Algerines and other Barbary powers, for which, and some other objects relating to our intercourse\nwith foreign nations, an appropriation was made to the amount of one million of dollars.\n          In all these cases, the negociations were to be conducted in a mode entirely different from that usual with the civilized nations of Europe. It was necessary to have the money in hand, to be paid during the negociations with the savages of America & the pirates of Barbary, or immediately on their conclusion. In these cases, then, it was necessary that the acts of Congress should precede the treaties: and hence the necessity of the President\u2019s making these communications prior to the commencement of the negociations.\n          The last references of Mr Livingston were to the President\u2019s messages of the 5th & 16th of December 1793. The latter was accompanied by confidential communications relative to our affairs with Spain. This confidential message not being in the public journals, I take Mr Livingston\u2019s own quotation from it. The former part of the message must have stated our situation as comprehending demands refused or disputes to be adjusted. \u201cAnd therefore (says the President) by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, I appointed commissioners plenipotentiary for negociating and concluding a treaty with that country, on the several subjects of boundary, navigation & commerce, and gave them the instructions now communicated.\u201d Now \u201cwhy (asks Mr Livingston) communicate the instructions to the ministers? because (he answers himself) they related to commerce, to navigation, to boundary, on all of which subjects the president must have thought the legislature had a right of decision.\u201d But the instructions bear date in February or March 1792, nearly two years before they were laid before the House of Representatives; and the entry in their public journal of Decr 16. 1793, mentions the confidential communications, as \u201crespecting the transactions of the government of the U. States with Spain.\u201d And the fact was, that without consulting that House, the Executive had been acting near two years on the Spanish business; and it was only because the long protracted negociations presented little prospect of success, and because the people west of the Allegany, particularly the Kentuckians, were so restless as to indicate signs of taking by force (& thus involving the U. States in war) what could not be obtained by negociation, that the subject was laid before Congress. It is also remarkable, that the instructions\nfor the Spanish negociation, tho\u2019 withheld near two years from the House of Representatives, were laid before the Senate, as a branch of the treaty-making power, for their approbation, before they were sent to our ministers; the senate being in session, and the subject of great importance.\n          Thus it appears that the cases cited by Mr Livingston do not yield a shadow of support to his resolution: and indeed his speech is made up of contemptible sophistry & florid declamation. I am most respectfully sir your obt servant\n            Timothy Pickering.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0507", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 29 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Senate\n            Gentlemen of the Senate.\n            United States March 29. 1796.\n          I send herewith a copy of the Treaty of Friendship, Limits and Navigation, between the United States and his Catholic Majesty, which has been ratified by me with your Advice and Consent. A copy of the Treaty will be immediately communicated to the House of Representatives: it being necessary to make provision, in the present Session, for carrying into execution the Third and Twenty first Articles, particularly the former; seeing that execution must commence before the next meeting of Congress.\n          Estimates of the monies necessary to be provided for the purposes of this and several other Treaties with foreign Nations\nand the Indian Tribes will be laid before you by the proper Department.\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0508", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Elizabeth Parke Custis Law, 30 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Law, Elizabeth Parke Custis\n            My dear Betsey\n            Philadelphia 30th Mar. 1796\n          Melancholy as the event is, on which you wrote the 25th instant; and unwelcome as you knew the information must be, yet\nit was the part of prudence to communicate it as early as you did: and the precaution you took of writing to me, was well judged; and wd have been necessary, had we not been previously prepared for the shock, by letters from Mr Lear; giving an account of her situation, which left no hope, in me of a different result.\n          Mrs Lear was good & amiable, and your Society will feel the loss of her. But the Dispensations of Providence are as inscrutable, as they are wise & uncontroulable. It is the duty therfore of religeon & Philosophy, to submit to its decrees, with as little repining as the sensibility of our natures, will permit.\n          My compliments to Mr Law. In a joint letter, written a few days ago to him, by your Grandmamma and myself, we offered you both our congratulations on your union. & I repeat them again, with sincerity\u2014being Your Affectionate\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0509", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Tobias Lear, 30 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lear, Tobias\n            Philadelphia 30th Mar: 1796\n          Your former letters prepared us for the stroke, which that of the 25th instant announced; but it has fallen heavily notwithstanding.\n          It is the nature of humanity to mourn for the loss of our friends; and the more we loved them, the more poignant is our grief. It is part of the precepts of religion and Philosophy, to consider the Dispensations of Providence as wise, immutable, uncontroulable; of course, that it is our duty to submit with as little repining, as the sensiblity of our natures is capable of, to all its decrees. But nature will, notwithstanding, indulge, for a while, its sorrows.\n          To say how much we loved, and esteemed our departed friend, is unnecessary\u2014She is now no more! but she must be happy, because her virtue has a claim to it.\n          As you talked of coming to this place on business, let us press you to do so. The same room that serves Mr Dandridge &\nWashington is large enough to receive a Bed also for you; and it is needless to add, we shall be glad of your company. The change may be serviceable to you; and if our wishes were of any avail, they would induce you to make your stay here as long as your convenience would permit.\n          At all times, and under all circumstances, we are, and ever shall remain, Your sincere and Affectionate friends.\n            Go: WashingtonM. Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0510", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 30 March 1796\nFrom: Lear, Tobias\nTo: Washington, George\n            Washington [D.C.] March 30th 1796.\n          I have this moment received your kind & acceptable favor of the 27th instant; and at the same time a letter from the Secretary of War on the subject of the Arsenal. It contains but a few lines, informing me that he shall put the papers, which I transmitted last month, into the hands of the Attorney General, to enable him to draw the deeds, and that he will write me more particularly in a short time. No serious evil, I think, can arise from the thing\u2019s not being executed on the first of April; for altho\u2019 it is said in the papers, that the U.S. shall have possession on that day; yet it is expressed that the proprietors shall make deeds whenever the U.S. acquire it.\n          I am happy to inform you that Maria is much better, and in a fair way to recover her usual state of health in a few days, when I shall take the liberty of carrying her to Mount Vernon to receive the benefit of the air, and change of place for a short time. She will be, with her brothers, there in the care of Mrs Skinner, who I am sure will pay every possible attention to her.\n          Altho\u2019, under present circumstances, I do not feel disposed to move about or mix much in society; yet I think it probable that I may, next week, go on to Phila. I have some business there which can be better done by me in person than by writing; and \u2019tho I have had sufficient firmness to bear up, with a considerable degree of composure, against my late afflicting calamity; yet, \u2019till\nnow, I was hardly sensible of the effect it has had upon me, and a change of place for a short time, together with a succession of active scenes, may be necessary to my health: I shall therefore, my dear Sir, postpone writing to you on the subject of business at present, expecting shortly to have the happiness of paying my respects to you in person.\n          I feel for others more than for myself, and it would give me unspeakable satisfaction to be able to say anything that could give consolation to your dear & good Mrs Washington. But it is out of my power; and I know that her mind looks to that source from which alone we can draw comfort in times of affliction like these. I beg to be presented to her in terms of dutiful & affectionate remembrance, in which my dear little Maria joins me and sends the same for your acceptance. I am, and always shall be, with a heart too full to express my gratitude & affection, Your invariable & respectful friend\n            Tobias Lear.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0511", "content": "Title: To George Washington from George Minor, 30 March 1796\nFrom: Minor, George\nTo: Washington, George\n            Chesnut Hill [Va.] March 30th 1796\n          I recd your Letter dated 13th april 1794 Wherein you requested me to watch over your land on four mile run\u2014this I have done with all possible care; and find it morally impossible\nto prevent depredations, oughing chiefly to the distance I live from the premises, and the caution in windy weather, and halling the wood away in the night.\n          Mr William pearce your Maneger was at My house yesterday and I went over the land with him and find a vast deal of injury done to the growth, both in firewood and valuable timber; and I think that it is highly expedient that some person who may be depended on should live on the land in Order to detect those villians who depend intirely for a support on your and others property\u2014Mr John Darne has offered his service for this purpose and I think from his character and my personal Knowledge of him I can recommend him to you as a person fully qualified for the business. however in this you will do as you think proper; but be assured I shall ever think my self happy in serveing you, in enforceing the laws against every person who shall be found trespasing on your land. I am Sir with the greatest respect your Most Obt humble Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0512", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 30 March 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n            Wednesday Morning 6 o\u2019clock [30 March 1796]\n          The Secretary of State has the honor to lay before the President of the U. States the result of his examination of Mr Livingston\u2019s speech.\n          He also returns the draught of the proposed answer to the House, in the 3d page of which he has restored the idea of the Senate being composed of few members, as a reason why they participated in the power of making treaties: for taking the thing at large, when thirty men are made the depositaries of State Secrets, they might not be deemed very safe.\n          Before nine this morning, the Secy expects an answer from Mr FitzSimons, when the Secy will wait on the President.\n            T. Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0513", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. House of Representatives, 30 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: U.S. House of Representatives, the\n            United States March 30th 1796.\n            Gentlemen of the House of Representatives.\n          With the utmost attention, I have considered your resolution of the twenty fourth instant, requesting me to lay before your House, a copy of the instructions to the Minister of the United States, who negociated the treaty with the king of Great Britain, together with the correspondence and other documents relative to that treaty, excepting such of the said papers, as any existing negociation may render improper to be disclosed.\n          In deliberating upon this subject, it was impossible for me to lose sight of the principle, which some have avowed in its discussion, or to avoid extending my views to the consequences, which must flow from the admission of that principle.\n          I trust, that no part of my conduct has ever indicated a disposition to withhold any information, which the constitution has enjoined upon the President, as a duty, to give, or which could be required of him by either House of Congress, as a right; and with truth, I affirm, that it has been, as it will continue to be, while I have the honor to preside in the government, my constant endeavor to harmonize with the other branches thereof; so far as the trust, delegated to me by the people of the United States, and my sense of the obligation it imposes \u201cto preserve, protect and defend the Constitution,\u201d will permit.\n          The nature of foreign negociations requires caution; and their success must often depend on secrecy: and even when brought to a conclusion, a full disclosure of all the measures, demands, or eventual concessions, which may have been proposed or contemplated, would be deemed impolitic; for this might have a\npernicious influence on future negociations, or produce immediate inconveniences, perhaps danger and mischief, in relation to the other powers. The necessity of such caution and secrecy was one cogent reason for vesting the power of making treaties, in the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate; the principle, on which that body was formed, confining it to a small number of members. To admit, then, a right in the House of Representatives, to demand, and to have, as a matter of course, all the papers respecting a negociation with a foreign power, would be, to establish a dangerous precedent.\n          It does not occur, that the inspection of the papers asked for can be relative to any purpose under the cognizance of the House of Representatives, except that of an impeachment; which the resolution has not expressed. I repeat, that I have no disposition to withhold any information, which the duty of my station will permit, or the public good will require to be disclosed; and, in fact, all the papers affecting the negociation with Great Britain were laid before the Senate, when the treaty itself was communicated for their consideration and advice.\n          The course, which the debate has taken, on the resolution of the House, leads to some observations on the mode of making treaties under the constitution of the United States.\n          Having been a member of the general convention, and knowing the principles, on which, the constitution was formed, I have ever entertained but one opinion on this subject; and from the first establishment of the government, to this moment, my conduct has exemplified that opinion, that the power of making treaties is exclusively vested in the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate; provided two thirds of the Senators present concur; and that every treaty so made, and promulgated, thenceforward became the law of the land. It is thus, that the treaty-making power has been understood by foreign nations; and in all the treaties made with them, we have declared, and they have believed, that, when ratified by the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate, they became obligatory. In this construction of the constitution, every House of Representatives has heretofore acquiesced, and, until the present time, not a doubt or suspicion has appeared to my knowledge, that this construction was not the true one. Nay, they have more than acquiesced; for, till now, without controverting the obligation of\nsuch treaties, they have made all the requisite provisions for carrying them into effect.\n          There is also reason to believe, that this construction agrees with the opinion entertained by the State conventions, when they were deliberating on the constitution, especially by those who objected to it; because there was not required, in commercial treaties, the consent of two thirds of the whole number of the members of the Senate, instead of two thirds of the Senators present; and because, in treaties respecting territorial and certain other rights and claims, the concurrence of three fourths of the whole number of the members of both Houses, respectively, was not made necessary.\n          It is a fact declared by the General Convention, and universally understood, that the constitution of the United States was the result of a spirit of amity and mutual concession. And it is well known, that under this influence, the smaller States were admitted to an equal representation in the Senate, with the larger States; and that this branch of the government was invested with great powers: for, on the equal participation of those powers, the sovereignty and political safety of the smaller States were deemed essentially to depend.\n          If other proofs than these, and the plain letter of the constitution itself, be necessary to ascertain the point under consideration, they may be found in the journals of the General Convention, which I have deposited in the office of the department of State. In these journals, it will appear, that a proposition was made, \u201cthat no treaty should be binding on the United States, which was not ratified by a law\u201d: and that the proposition was explicitly rejected.\n          As, therefore, it is perfectly clear to my understanding, that the assent of the House of Representatives is not n[e]cessary to the validity of a treaty: as the treaty with Great Britain exhibits, in itself, all the objects requiring legislative provision, and on these, the papers called for can throw no light; and as it is essential to the due administration of the government, that the boundaries, fixed by the constitution between the different departments, should be preserved: a just regard to the constitution, and to the duty of my office, under all the circumstances of this case, forbid a compliance with your request.\n            Go. Washington.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0514", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Andrew Ellicott, 31 March 1796\nFrom: Ellicott, Andrew\nTo: Washington, George\n            Philadelphia March 31st 1796\n          With this you will receive an essay designed to introduce accuracy in the execution of new surveys, and permanency to the work when executed; which from the present improved state of the Sciences, may be done with ease, and expedition, by any person properly qualified for a surveyor. The method which I have proposed, will neither require more time, nor be attended with more expense, than the one commonly practised. I have the honour to be, with the most perfect esteem, your Hbe Sert\n            Andw Ellicott.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0515", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 31 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n            Philadelphia 31st Mar. 1796\n          I do not know how to thank you sufficiently, for the trouble you have taken to dilate on the request of the House of Representatives for the Papers relative to the British Treaty; or how\nto apologize for the trouble (much greater than I had any idea of giving) which you have taken to shew the impropriety of that request.\n          From the first moment, and from the fullest conviction in my own mind, I had resolved to resist the principle wch was evidently intended to be established by the call of the House of Representatives; and only deliberated on the manner, in which this could be done, with the least bad consequences.\n          To effect this, three modes presented themselves to me\u20141. a denial of the Papers in toto, assigning concise, but cogent reasons for the denial; 2. to grant them in whole; or 3. in part; accompanied with a pointed protest against the right of the House to controul Treaties, or to call for Papers without specifying their object; and against the compliance being drawn into precedent.\n          I had as little hesitation in deciding that the first was the most tenable ground, but from the peculiar circumstances of this case It merited consideration, if the principle could be saved, whether facility in the provisions might not result from a compliance. An attentive examination however of the Papers and the subject, soon convinced me that to furnish all the Papers would be highly improper; and that a partial delivery of them would leave the door open for as much calumny as the entire refusal\u2014perhaps more so\u2014as it might, and I have no doubt would be said, that all such as were essential to the purposes of the House, were withheld.\n          Under these impressions, I proceeded, with the heads of Departments and the Attorney General, to collect materials; & to prepare an answer, subject however to revision\u2014& alteration, according to circumstances. This answer was ready on Monday \u2014and proposed to be sent in on Tuesday but it was delayed until I should receive what was expected; not doing it definitively on that day, the delivery of my answer was further postponed till the next; notwithstanding the anxious solicitude which was visible in all quarters, to learn the result of Executive decision.\n          Finding that the draft I had prepared, embraced most, if not all the principles which were detailed in the Paper I received yesterday; though not the reason\u27e8in\u27e9gs. That it would take considerable \u27e8t\u27e9ime to copy the latter\u2014and above all, having understood that if the Papers were refused a fresh demand, with\nstrictures might be expected; I sent in the answer wch was ready; reserving the other as a source for reasoning if my information proves true.\n          I could not be satisfied without giving you this concise acct of the business. To express again my sincere thanks for the pains you have been at to investigate the subject, \u27e8and to assure you, over & over, of the warmth of my friendship and of the affectionate regard with which I am\u2014Your Affectionate\n            G. Washington\u27e9", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0516", "content": "Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 31 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Jay, John\n            Philadelphia 31st Mar. 1796\n          Accept, my dear Sir, my thanks for your note of the 25th Instant\u2014enclosing a copy of Mr Bayards letter to you. The purport of it is pleasing; but the conduct of the British armed Vessels in the West Indies, is intolerable beyond all forbearance.\n          My answer, given yesterday, to the House of Representatives\u2019 request of Papers, will, I expect, set a host of Scribblers to work: but I shall proceed steadily on, in all the measures which depend on the Executive, to carry the British Treaty into effect.\n          This reminds me of the name of Pickman, who, sometime ago you mentioned as a Commissioner; but upon enquiry of his countrymen, it was found he was unfit\u2014& Mr Benson declines.\n          Let me pray you to send the enclosed to Colo. Hamilton\u2014& be assured of the Affecte Regard of\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0517", "content": "Title: From George Washington to George Washington Motier Lafayette, 31 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lafayette, George Washington Motier\n            Philadelphia 31st Mar. 1796\n          Your letter of the 28th instt was received yesterday. The enclosures which accompanied it, evidence much discretion; and your conduct therein meets my entire approbation.\n          In the early part of this month, I put a letter into the hands of Colo. Hamilton, inviting you to this place; and expected, until your letter of the above date was received, to have embraced you, under my own roof, tomorrow or next day.\n          As the period for this, seems to be more distant, from the purport of your enquiries; I again repeat my former request; and wish that without delay, you and Mr Festal, with your baggage &ca would proceed immediately to this City, and to my house; where a room is prepared for you & him.\n          Under expectation of your doing this, it is as unnecessary, as it might be improper, to go more into detail until I have the pleasure to see you; and to render every service in my power to the Son of my friend, for whom I have always entertained the purest Affections. These are too strong not to extend themselves to you. Therefore believe me to be, as I really am\u2014Sincerely & Affectionately Yours\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0518", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Law, 31 March 1796\nFrom: Law, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n            Washington City 31st March 1796\n          The obliging Lre of congratulation in which Mrs Washington & you united, could not fail to render the happiness of Eliza & me compleat.\n          Mr & Mrs Peters have been kind enough to spend a day or two with us, as the sudden shock which Mrs Lear\u2019s melancholy fate occasion\u2019d, has somewhat affected Eliza\u2019s health\u2014We had just cross\u2019d the Ferry when Eliza receiv\u2019d the sad account of Mrs Lear\u2019s desperate situation & It were superfluous to explain how she attended her much lov\u2019d friend & relation from her bed to her coffin & from her coffin to the Vault at Mount Vernon.\n          I hope Mrs Washington & You will honor us with your Company when you visit the City & be witnesses of our happiness\u2014Eliza joins with me in most affectionate regards, & I have only to add that my sense of your very flattering & kind attentions will be best evinc\u2019d by my conduct to Eliza & her indulgent Relations.\n          She would have written long e\u2019er this, but has been prevented by painful duties & by sickness. I remain With unfeigned respect & esteem & sincere regard Yr most obliged & most affy\n            Thomas Law", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0519", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 31 March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Senate\n            Gentlemen of the Senate\n            United States March 31st 1796\n          The Treaty of Amity, Commerce and Navigation between the United States and Great Britain, requiring that Commissioners should be appointed to fix certain boundaries between the Territories of the contracting parties, and to ascertain the losses and damages represented to have been sustained by their respective Citizens and Subjects, as set forth in the fifth, Sixth and Seventh Articles of the Treaty; In order to carry those Articles into execution, I nominate as Commissioners on the part of the United States,\n          For the purpose mentioned in the fifth Article, Henry Knox of Massachusetts:\n          For the purpose mentioned in the Sixth Article, Thomas Fitzsimons of Pennsylvania, and James Innes of Virginia: and\n          For the purpose mentioned in the Seventh Article, Christopher Gore of Massachusetts and William Pinckney of Maryland.\n            Go. Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-19-02-0520", "content": "Title: List of Proposed Candidates for Sundry Offices, c. March 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: \n            [Philadelphia, c.March 1796]\n              New Hampshire\n              Pensylvania\n              William Rawle\n              William Tighlman\n              Massachusetts\n              Thomas Fitzsimmons\n              Theop. Parsons\n              Presley Nevil\n              Jonathan Williams\n              Timo. Edwards\n              Connecticut\n              James Davenport\n              George Reade\n              Amasa Learned\n              Jera. Wadsworth\n              John Trumbull\n              Wm V. Murray\u2014if constitutional\n              Jedh Huntington\n              Charles Carrol\n              James Watson\n              George Gale\n              Wm Constable\n              Benja. Walker\n              B. Washington\n              Charles Lee if compatible with the Office of Atty General\n              Abraham Baldwin\n              North Carolina\n              Rhode Island\n              John Steele\n              South Carolina\n              William Smith\u2014if Constitutional\n          Quere. Will it be consistent with the Constitution to appoint Members of Congress?\n          Is the Office of Commissioner compatible with that of Attorney General?", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0001", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Justus Erick Bollmann, 1 April 1796\nFrom: Bollmann, Justus Erick\nTo: Washington, George\n          [Philadelphia] April the 1t 1796.\n        When I had the honor to wait on Your Excellency shortly after my arrival in Philadelphia, I took the liberty to mention that I had a friend in Olm\u00fctz, who interested himself for Gen. Lafayette; that I had arranged with him a safe correspondence; that he had communicated to me, before I left London, a plan according to which the liberty of Gen. Lafayette might have been procured on the expence of about 3000\u00a3 Stg; but, that his friends in London rejected it, partly, on account of the absence of Mr Pinckney, not choosing to take upon themselves the responsability for this money, partly, because they entertained great hopes that the applications of Madame Lafayette would prove successful! And I added at the same time that, my first proposals being thus rejected, I had endeavoured to make Madame Lafayette acquainted with my friend, writing a letter to both of them, in order that he might assist her with his advice!\n        The day before yesterday I have received of this same friend 3 letters, dated from Olm\u00fctz the 17th of October, the 26th of November, and the 10th of December 95., out of which I think it my duty to communicate to Your Excellency the following particulars!\n        Madame Lafayette went to Vienna so precipitately that she had seen the Emperor before my friend received my last letters, and this prevented his concerting with her any measures that might have supported her application. She was allowed by the Emperor to join the Marquis with her two daughters, but, respecting her request to set him free, he answerd \u201cthat this was a complicated affair and that his hands were tied\u201d (que l\u2019affaire etait compliqu\u00e9e et qu\u2019il avait les mains li\u00e9es l\u00fb dessus).\n        She then left Vienna and arrived in Olm\u00fctz the 16th of October, where she was immediately introduced to the marquis, and imprisoned with him, the same as her two daughters, who accompanied her. They are kept very closely and not allowed any communication with their friends, neither personally nor by way of Correspondence!\n        My friend, however, has succeded in establishing a secret\nCorrespondence; he gives me hope that soon he will be able to send me some original letters of the Marquis and meanwhile communicates to me an extract of the Marquis\u2019s letters to himself, out of which, suppressing what regards Mr Huger and myself personally, I think the following passage will be to Your Excelency particularly interesting.\n        \u201cWe flatter ourselves, write Gen. L.F. and his family, that our two friends will be well received in America; and we likewise think that Mr Bollmann will find in each of the different States, in Congress and in the Executif Government favorable dispositions towards the poor prisonners, whom it is the great point to reclaim. He will convince himself that, if Gen. Washington has not yet done every thing that might be useful to us, it is because the manner in which he may serve us never has been well explained to him yet. And, at all events, Mr Bollmann will not forget that, since 20 years, General Lafayette has been attached to General Washington by all the ties of tenderness, gratitude and respect, which can attach an adopted child to his father. We imagine that his stay in America may be of great utility; he will find there George, our son and brother &c. &c.\u201d\n        Some other accounts of my Olm\u00fctz-Correspondent mention, that it is the Influence of the Brittish ministry, and almost that alone what keeps the Marquis in Prison. \u201cHe suffers, much less because he was the Hero of the French, than because he took a part in the American Revolution!\u201d\n        I am ready Sir, if You require it, to lay before Your Excellency the original german letters, which contain the informations and extracts above stated; but, as now the way of correspondence is open, I should particularly be glad were I enabled to make to Gen. Lafayette some communications, calculated to sooth his misfortune by the certainty of friendly compassion, or to fortify his Courage by the prospect of relief! I have the honor to be with the highest respect Sir Your Excellency\u2019s most obedient and humble servant\n          J. Erick Bollmann", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0003", "content": "Title: To George Washington from George Walton, 1 April 1796\nFrom: Walton, George\nTo: Washington, George\n          philadelphia, 1 April, 1796\n        The letter enclosed, came under cover to me from General Mathews by yesterday\u2019s mail. In opening the latter, the seal of the former was a little injured.\n        With every consideration of delicacy on my part, and of respect to the Executive of the Union on the other, I make this the occasion to mention, that, by the same mail, as well as by other conveyances, I am advised of such a general derangement of\npublic affairs, and of appointments, in Georgia, I would willingly undertake some federal Employment.\n        Having long served in the Judiciary of that State, my habits and predilections are in that line; and I should have been content to have been continued on the ground I had left: but I have been excluded from the appointments, and even the Commission, for treating with the Creeks for the Oakmulgie lands, has been filled up anew.\n        Under this unpleasant prospect, I am induced to offer my services to attend the Running of the Southern Boundary of the United-States, under the spanish Treaty. It is in truth, sir, not my wish to embarrass by this application, as I make it with doubts; and shall be content with the reasons which shall pass it by. Advancing to a declining period of my life, my principal aim in this address is, to place myself in view for service, when a fit occasion shall offer. With sincere attachment & respect, I am, Sir, Yr Obt Sert\n          Geo. Walton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0004", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 2 April 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n          New York April 2d 1796\n        The express is this morning gone off with your letter to Young La Fayette. I foresaw when in Philadelphia certain machinations on this subject.\n        I rejoice in the decision you have come to, in regard to the papers. Whatever may happen, it is right in itself\u2014will elevate the character of the President\u2014and inspire confidence abroad. The contrary would have encouraged a spirit of usurpation the bounds of which could not be foreseen.\n        If there is time, I should like to have back the paper lately sent\nto correct prune guard & strengthen\u2014I have no copy. But of the expediency of this the circumstances on the Spot will decide. There is great fitness in the message to the House. I see only one point the least vulnerable, the too direct notice of the debate in the house\u2014which may be attacked as contrary to parliamentary usage. I hear the criticism here among the L\u2014\u2014s. But this cannot be very material. Most respectfully & Affectny I have the honor to be Sir Yr very obed. ser.\n          A. Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0006", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 3 April 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n          Mr Pearce,\n          Philadelphia 3d April 1796.\n        Your letter of the 27th Ulto, with a Post[s]cript of the 29th, came duly to hand yesterday.\n        As I have expectation that by the time this letter will have reached you, a Vessel from Liverpool called the Commerce will\nhave arrived at George Town with eight bushels of the field Pea; as much of the Chiccory as will sow four Acres of land; and eight bushels of the Winter Vetch\u2014for, and on my account, I request you to have the two first sowed as soon as you are able. By looking into some of the farming books I lent you; you will discover what quantity of the Pease to allow to the Acre. If these shd be silent, allow two bushels sowed broadcast: at any rate do not give as much as the English husbandry directs, for the quantity allowed in that country (formerly at least) greatly exceeds ours. I sent for as much Chiccory as would sow four Acres of ground, but not mentioning whether in drils or broadcast, I am unable to give you any particular direction on this head; and therefore must leave it to yourself to judge from the quantity of seed, whether it is designed for four acres broadcast, or four acres in drills that the seed is adequate to. The Vetches must be secured in the Seed loft for fall sowing.\n        If the Chiccory is as valuable for Soiling horses (that is giving it to them green) as I am told it is; I think it would be desirable to allow a proportional quantity of it to each of the four farms; to be sown as convenient as may be to the stables. As you did not, in enumerating the different places in which Oats were to be sowed, mention any for the ground that was in Potatoes, near the quarter, at Mansion house; I think, if it is yet unsown, it would be a good spot (or as much thereof as is necessary) to sow the Pease in: and I see no reason why clover may not be sown with them, as well as with Oats. If this ground should have been seeded already\u2014sow them wherever you please; and with as little delay as possible. Do the same with the chiccory, as the Season is getting late\u2014& if it continues dry they will come to nothing withou\u27e8t\u27e9.\n        In one of my letters, I mentioned plantg the vacant ground in the Cornfield, at Mansion Ho., with Corn, along with the New ground; but in my next letter, I suggested the idea of putting it in Oats, to avoid letting the other part lying waste, or the expence of a fence. But I leave it to you to do what you think best, or rather what you are able to accomplish. My plan always was, and always will be, to attempt no more than can be executed well. and this made me desirous of cultivating all the New ground; being well convinced that it will soon be as bad as ever, if the roots & sprouts are not destroyed by this means.\n        In one of your late letters, speaking of the damage done by\nthe Wind, you mentioned its having blown down many Trees: it did not occur to me at that time, that this might have happened to the Trees in the yards, gardens, or Lawns. If this was the case, I hope they were set up again.\n        If the locust Posts for the circle, are ready, let them be put up. and if you should sell the flour on the terms I have mentioned, take care that the payment is well secured.\n        Mr Minor has recommended a Mr Darnes, as a Tenant, whom he thinks would preserve my land near Alexandria from the Tresspasses it undergoes; and I have, in the enclosed letter (left open for your perusal) requested him to put the said Darnes on. Let the letter be sent to him that he may certainly get it and let Mr Darnes have the field you speak of, & more ground if necessary, to put a house on. But make your agreement with him in writing; that there may be no mistakes. I should not incline to give him a surety of the place for more than 5, 6, or 7 yrs\u2014for the rest I care not.\n        Unless I rent my Farms, and I have very little expectation of doing it, for the next year, I shall be indifferent about renting my Mill; unless tempted by a good price: but without letting this be known you may learn from Mr Gill what his friend, or any other, would give for her, for the term of years I have offered her.\n        Let me know the exact size of the Chimney in the New room, at Mansion house; that is, how wide at the front, and at the back, & how deep at the sides; & whether the sides are of Marble. Let me know also how far the chimney piece projects from the plaistering above it; whether there is a middle part that projects more than the rest; how much, & the width of it, &ca; & what the whole length of the chimney piece at top is, from side to side or end to end. I am your friend and well wisher\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0007", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 3 April 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n        Letter not found: from William Pearce, 3 April 1796. GW wrote Pearce on 10 April: \u201cYour letter of the 3d instant \u2026 was received yesterday.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0008", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James Innes, 4 April 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Innes, James\n          Philada 4th april 1796.\n        Before this can have reached your hands, the gazettes will have announced to you that I have taken the liberty (without a previous consultation) to nominate you, conjointly with Thos Fitzsimons esqe an intelligent merchant of this City, one of the Commissioners for carrying the Sixth article of the treaty lately entered into with G. Britain, into effect. As the nomination is confirmed by the Senate, I hope it will be convenient & agreeable to you to accept the trust; for the duties whereof, & other matters relative thereto the article itself will be sufficiently explanatory.\n        The compensation will not be less, I conceive, than \u00a31000. sterlg per annum; but as it is not absolutely fixed yet, I cannot speak with more decision on the subject; and request that this letter may not be considered as an official one; but meant only\nto intimate what has been done, & to know your sentiments thereon; the rest you will receive in due time from the Secy of State. With esteem & regard, &c.\n          G: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0011", "content": "Title: To George Washington from George Lux, c.4 April 1796\nFrom: Lux, George\nTo: Washington, George\n          George Washington\n          [Baltimore, c.4 April 1796]\n        I want words to preface a letter more respectfully to you\u2014It is my pride & boast, that you & my dear Father were intimate, & you have occasionally honoured me with your notice.\n        I have been ill, am still an Invalid, but have strength to wield a pen to assert, I am proud of you, & the stand you have made against a dangerous precedent alarming to future generations of United Columbia\u2014Why should we have a popular Oligarchy? In an humble station, as only a Clerk to a Committee of Congress, I have, in early youth, found secrecy necessary in foreign negotiations\u2014Domestic Matters ought to be open & explicit.\n        Our Government has it\u2019s Checks & balances, to ensure liberty & prevent an undue preponderancy of either the Judicial, Executive or Legislative Departments\u2014Sick as I have been, I have not seen many, but the few who have conversed with me unite in approbation of George Washington with\n          George Lux", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0012", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 5 April 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          War office 5th April 1796.\n        I beg leave to request your Excellency attention to the inclosed draught of a letter to the Governor of Georgia. If it can be returned today it may go by to-morrows mail. With the greatest respect I have the honour to be Sir Your most obt st\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0013", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Hampden-Sydney College Committee, 6 April 1796\nFrom: Hampden-Sydney College Committee\nTo: Washington, George\n          Virginia, Prince Edward County, April 6th 1796.\n        Your benevolent intention, as to the appropriation of your interest in the James River Canal Company, being known by a resolution of the last General Assembly of this State; a Board of the Trustees for the College of Hamden Sidney, in this County, have appointed us, in their name, to address you, Sir, in behalf of that seminary.\n        Hamden Sidney lays claim to considerable local advantages; to enumerate them may be unnecessary\u2014it may be unbecoming in us. How far its pretensions to claim the public patronage, or how far, its central situation, and its being adjacent to an extensive back country, may merit your attention, we cannot say. We beg leave to Mr Madison, Mr Coles, Mr Giles and Mr Venable, who are acquainted with its situation and circumstances; and also to such other gentlemen of your acquaintance, as shall think proper to interest themselves in its behalf.\n        Hamden Sidney was founded, about twenty years ago, by the liberality of private individuals, and with various success; under many and great difficulties, arising from the want of permanent funds, it has struggled hard to rise into real public usefulness and importance; and still, in this condition it maintains the conflict\u2014In its behalf, we beg leave to solicit your attention and patronage. Should you think this seminary worthy of such attention, your liberality towards it will be gratefully acknowledged: and what, we are sure, will interest you much more, we trust, it will be employed in such a manner, as to answer the end of your benevolent intentions. On behalf of the Board, we beg leave to subscribe ourselves, very respectfully, Sir, Your obedient, Humble Servants,\n          William Cowan,Samuel W. Venable,Richard N. Venable.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0014", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Robert Lewis, 6 April 1796\nFrom: Lewis, Robert\nTo: Washington, George\n          Spring Hill Fauqr County [Va.]April 6th 1796\n          Hond Uncle,\n        I am duly favored with the receipt of your letter of the 10th of March (in reply to mine of the 17th of February[)] with its several inclosures\u2014Why so long \u27e8on\u27e9 the road and getting to your hands, I am unable to say, unless it proceeded from the neglect of a Gentleman who took charge of it and promissed to leave it at the Post Office. We have no regular Post Rider in this part of the Country, altho\u2019 there are several who pretend to it\u2014The conveyance is at any rate uncertain\u2014You desire to know \u201cto whose care letters are to be directed since my Mother has left Fredericksburg[\u201d]\u2014I know of no person that I wou\u2019d so soon confide them to as Mr James Lewis\u2014Attorney at Law Fredericksburg\u2014If directed to his care, particular attention will be paid to them and a speedy conveyance given.\n        I can offer but few other reasons for not paying what money I have in my hands of yours to Mr Pearce, or into the Bank of Alexandria, than what before urged in my last letter, Vizt The Replevy Bonds becoming due Apl Court when they will either be paid or Judgments must go against the tenants\u2014The expectation of getting something out of the late Sheriff who collected in Muse\u2019s time, and a certainty of my going to Alexandria, as soon as I finish planting my corn\u2014I can assure you the money which I have collected is now in my desk\u2014I have never made any use of it at all, unless it was by your order, or for your use\u2014It was a ridiculous Idea I had adopted, that you would be better pleased to receive your money in a lump annually, than to draw it from me in small parcels\u2014However, as it is your wish I should pay the money to Mr Pearce, or deposit it as soon as collected in\nthe Bank of Alexandria, it shall be done\u2014I shall start at fartherest for one or the other place by the 12th To Mount Vernon I expect\u2014It will give me an opportunity of conversing with Mr Pearce whose advice I have found extremely beneficial to me as a Young Farmer.\n        Your Advertisement [I] have fixed up at the Court House; it being the most publick place in this part of the Country\u2014I have also seen the Papers which were sent to you by Mr Ariss\u2014The business has not wanted attention\u2014The dispute is for about one eighth of an acre which Mr McCormick holds\u2014There is also an old grudge\u2014As to McCormicks getting a road thro\u2019 his yard it is a chimera of the brain\u2014No Court of Justice to gratify an ill natured Man would direct a publick road thro\u2019 a gentlemans yard to gain a hundred and fifty yards; as it is not more than that distance around, as the road now runs, and has run for eight or ten years\u2014Mr Ariss wishes to involve me in a Law suit with McCormick, which can derive you no advantage or credit to Mr Ariss; as he has suffered McCormick to have quiet possession many years\u2014The Man has thro\u2019 ignorance placed his fence on your land and I believe there may be ten or twelve feet of his Barn over your line.\n        I received a letter about three days ago from Mr Pearce, wherein he mentions that you were willing, I should take the Jack Compound upon certain conditions\u2014I am extremely obliged to you for the offer, and wou\u2019d most willingly have accepted it, was the season not so far advanced\u2014Most people hereabouts wou\u2019d be glad to get into the breed of Mules, but they have either sent their Mares to some Horse or other, or engaged them\u2014If Agreeable and convenient, I should be glad to take him the next Spring\u2014If I could get him here by February Court I am sure some profit might be derived from him.\n        A Servant going to Fredericksburg, and who carries this, hurries me to conclude\u2014You will therefore excuse incorrectness and haste.\n        Mrs Lewis offers her Affectionate and respectfull regards to you & my aunt\u2014I remain your much obliged and affectionate nephew\n          Robt Lewis\n          P.S. Mrs Haney appears to be in the last stage of a consumption.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0015", "content": "Title: From George Washington to George Lewis, 7 April 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lewis, George\n            Philadelphia 7th April 1796\n          Tuesday\u2019s Post brought me a letter from a Mr Andrew Parks of Fredericksburgh, covering one from your mother; both on the subject of overtures of marriage made by the former to your cousin Harriot Washington: which, it seems, depend upon my consent for consummatn.\n          My sister speaks of Mr Parks as a sober, discreet man; and one who is attentive to business. Mr Parks says of himself, that his \u201cfortune at present, does not much exceed \u00a33000, but with industry & \u0153conomy, he has every expectation of rapidly improving his condition\u201d being concerned with his brother in law Mr McElderry of Baltimore, in Mercantil\u27e8e\u27e9 business.\n          As I am an entire stranger to Mr Parks; to his family connexions, or his connexions in trade; to his mode of living; his habits\u2014and to his prospects in trade; I should be glad if you wd ascertain them with as much precision as you can, and write me with as little delay as you can well avoid.\n          Harriot having little or no fortune of her own, has no right to expect a great one in the man she marrys: but it is desirable that she should marry a gentleman; one who is well connected, and can support her decently, in the line she has always moved, otherwise she would not find matrimony with a large family &\nlittle means, so eligable as she may have conceived it to be. I am your sincere friend and Affectionate Uncle\n            Go: Washington\n          This letter will be accompanied by one to my Sister which I pray you to receive from the Post Office and send to her.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0018", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 7 April 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State April 7. 1796.\n        The Secretary of State has the honour to lay before the President of the U. States, copies of the estimates relative to the treaties with Great Britain, Spain, Algiers & the Indian Tribes northwest of the river Ohio, and a copy of the letter from the Secretary to the President of the Senate & to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, which accompanied those estimates, when he laid the same before Congress, agreeably to the Message of the President of the United States with which he communicated to each House the Treaty with his Catholic Majesty.\n          Timothy Pickering.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0019", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James Innes, 8 April 1796\nFrom: Innes, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          Richmond Virginia April 8th 1796\n        I have the honor, this moment, to receive yr letter of the 4th of this month.\n        The government of the united States, which I voted for at its adoption, on principles of theory, has been progressively endeared to me by its administration, and practice\u2014From this Consideration, I have been ever anxious to give to it Energy, and Efficacy, by every aid in my power\u2014But at the present Crisis\u2014I feel myself actuated by more than ordinary motives, to manifest my Zeal, that it may forever be executed with Independence, and firmness, on the true basis of its Constitution.\n        After a request, that you would accept my acknowledgement of the honor you have done me\u2014by recommending me to the trust you mention, I do not hesitate to express my willingness to undertake it. That I may, as soon as possible disentangle myself from every Engagement either official, or professional, I take leave to request, that the Secretary of State will have the goodness to give me the most early Information of the period of time, at which I should hold myself in preparation to enter upon the functions of my new office. with Sentiments, of the most perfect respect, Esteem, and regard, I have the honor to be\u2014yr most obt sert\n          Jas Innes", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0020", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, 8 April 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate and House of Representatives\n          United States April 8th 1796\n          Gentlemen of the Senate and of the House of Representatives\n        By an Act of Congress passed in the 26th of May 1790 it was declared that the Inhabitants of the territory of the United States south of the river Ohio, should enjoy all the privileges, benefits and advantages set forth in the ordinance of Congress for the government of the territory of the United States north-West of the river Ohio; and that the government of the said territory south of the Ohio should be similar to that which was then exercised in the territory north-West of the Ohio; exept so far as was otherwise provided in the conditions expressed in an Act of Congress passed the 2d of April 1790, entitled \u201cAn Act to accept a cession of the claims of the State of North Carolina to a certain district of Western territory.[\u201d]\n        Among the privileges, benefits and advantages thus secured to the Inhabitants of the territory south of the Ohio, appear to be the right of forming a permanent Constitution and State\nGovernment and of admission as a State, by its delagates, into the Congress of the United States on an equal footing with the original States in all respects whatever, when it should have therein Sixty thousand free inhabitants: provided the Constitution and Government so to be formed should be Republican, and in conformity to the principles contained in the Articles of the said Ordinance.\n        As proofs of the several requisites to entitle this territory south of the River Ohio to be admitted, as a State into the Union, Governor Blount has transmitted a return of the enumeration of its Inhabitants, and a printed copy of the Constitution and form of Government on which they have agreed which with his Letters accompanying the same, are herewith laid before Congress.\n          Go. Washington.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0021", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 9 April 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n        It gives me great pleasure to have the opportunity of announcing to you one whom I know to be so interesting to You as the bearer of this Mr Motier La Fayette. I allow myself to share by anticipation the satisfaction which the Meeting will afford to all the parties\u2014the more, as I am persuased, that time will confirm the favourable representation I have made of the person & justify the interest you take in him.\n        I have pleasure also in presenting to You Mr Frestal who accompanies him & who more and more convinces me that he is intirely worthy of the charge reposed in him and every way intitled to esteem. With the most respectful & Affectionate Attachment I have the honor to be Sir Your very obed. servt\n          A. Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0022", "content": "Title: To George Washington from George Lewis, 9 April 1796\nFrom: Lewis, George\nTo: Washington, George\n          Fredericksburg [Va.] 9th April 1796\n        Your letter of the 28th of last month, acknowledging the receipt of my two last letters, I receiv\u2019d, no information since then has transpired respecting the value of western lands that can be depended upon\u2014It has been asked me by some persons whether you would exchange any of those lands for improved estates (good farms) in this part of the country that might be immediately rented to an advantage, as your terms speak nothing of bartar. I supposed it would not be your wish, should an exchange of this kind be agreable\u2014you can advise me. I shall continue my exertions to purchase Wodrowes land, and have not a doubt could I have gone to Kentucky this month as intended, but I should have secured it\u2014Mrs Lewis\u2019s indisposition for sometime past, and no prospect of her mending\n            Map 1: GW\u2019s western lands occupied an important place in his personal wealth and financial management. He enlisted the help of his nephew George Lewis in trying to sell land he owned on Rough Creek in western Kentucky. (Illustrated by Rick Britton. Copyright Rick Britton 2014)\nshortly, prevents my goeing this summer, for some dayes past she has been with her Mother in the country, in hopes that a change of air and exercise may be of service. I return\u2019d to town this day, where I received your letter, otherwise it should have been acknowledg\u2019d ere this. I left my Mother and family well yesterday\u2014My love to my Aunt, and accept the sincere respect and esteem of Yr Affectionate Nephew", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0023", "content": "Title: To George Washington from David Campbell, 10 April 1796\nFrom: Campbell, David\nTo: Washington, George\n          Territory of the United States South of the River OhioApril 10th 1796\n        It is already known to you that the people of this Territory are taking measures to become a member of the Federal Government by the name of the State of Tennessee. If their wishes are acceded to by Congress, my appointment as one of the Judges for the Territorial Government will cease.\n        In that event, if you think me a proper person to fill the Office of District Judge for the State of Tennessee I will gratefully accept of the same. I am with verry great Respect Your Obt Servt\n          David Campbell", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0026", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Vans Murray, 11 April 1796\nFrom: Murray, William Vans\nTo: Washington, George\n          112. Spruce St. [Philadelphia] 11. Apl 1796.\n        I find from the atto[r]ney of this district that Randal is in a course of being judicially try\u2019d this time in the Circuit Court\u2014& that I am to be a witness. You will I am sure Sir pardon the solicitude that leads me to request of you that the Proceeding may be stopped\u2014After having done what I conceived my duty demanded of me, & after having encountered many little circumstances extremely painful to my feelings in the doing my duty as a member, I should feel myself in a Situation infinitely painful to me in again appearing in this affair\u2014& appearing if at all, as I must in the world\u2019s eye, as a Prosecutor. If I might be permitted to make a remark, I would observe that what the house has done amounts to every thing desireable in an example that was at once to assert the dignity of the House, and yet avoid the appearances of rigour\u2014That example can not be repeated on a Scale equally great in a Jury Trial\u2014nor can greater publicity be given to it\u2014The appearance too, Sir, of a Second punishment will not perhaps add any thing to the score of government. As I have been so personally concerned in brin[g]ing Randal to one punishment I should feel very grateful if any further proceeding could be arrested before the grand Jury present him. I am with the Sincerest respect Sir Your most obedient Sert", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0027", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Gilbert Stuart, 11 April 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Stuart, Gilbert\n            Monday Evening 11th Apl 1796.\n        I am under promis\u27e8e to\u27e9 Mrs Bingham, to set for you tom\u27e8or\u27e9row at nine oclock; and wishing \u27e8to\u27e9 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 you, to ask information\u2014I am Sir Your Obedient Servt\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0028", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Richard Graham, 12 April 1796\nFrom: Graham, Richard\nTo: Washington, George\n          Arch Street No. 129 [Philadelphia] April 12 1796.\n        At the request of a very worthy Young Gentleman, Lieutenant Charles Lewis, I take the liberty to enquire of you if the Land late the property of Col. George Mercer was included in the Mortgage that Col. Mercer made to Mr Paine of London\u2014or in any other Mortgage that might have come to your knowledge\u2014Lieut. Lewis is now in Fredericksburgh on a bargain for that Land with the Executors of Mr James Mercer\u2014if he makes the purchase the Land will be immediately settled which will be a\ngreat benefit to that part of the Country; as it runs I think about twelve or fourteen miles on the River.\n        Your Excellency will I hope excuse this freedom\u2014With due respect I am Sir Your most obedt Servt\n          Richd Graham", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0029", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Bartholomew von Heer, 12 April 1796\nFrom: Heer, Bartholomew von\nTo: Washington, George\n          Philada 12th April 1796.in Eighth street near Vine street\n        The petition of Bartholomew Von Heer Humbly sheweth\n        That your petitioner having contributed his part to the funds of the Society and that from his deranged and unfortunate circumstances in business and his reduced situation as well as from a long and tedious bodily indisposition he is without the means of acquiring the Common Necessaries of life and is therefore constrained to apply for a part of the bounty of the Institution and he would humbly hope that he may be considered as entitled to a participation of the bounty of the Society and which he never would claim but from necessity he doth therefore humbly pray that you may be pleased to consider his situation and that relief may be afforded to him in his present condition and your petitioner will pray &ca.\n          Bartholomew Von Heer", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0030", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 12 April 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          War office 12 April 1796\n        I beg leave to lay before you a letter from Mr Seagrove which I received this morning, and one from Mr Price, the factor or agent for the trading house at Colerain with a draught of answers thereto. If you can spare time to look over them, I can receive your instructions at Any hour as the vessel is to sail to-day. I have the honour to be with the most perfect respect Sir Your most ob. & hble st\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0032", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Freeman, 13 April 1796\nFrom: Freeman, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n          Surveyor\u2019s Office City of Washington apl 13th 1796\n        The active and interesting operations in my department in this City, being now verging to a close, & the salary annexed thereto\nbeing but a bare support, I feel it a duty incumbent on me to seek the most early opportunity of judiciously changing my present situation\u2014to this end, my first object would be that business wherein my services would be most useful & best rewarded.\n        The ascertaining & adjusting the Western limits, and bounds of the United States as contemplated in the late Treaties, will require, industry, perseverence, & much Mathematical knowledge\u2014my services in that department would, I flatter myself be acceptable\u2014Permit me therefore to offer my self to your consideration in the arrangement of that business, and should I be so fortunate as to succeed to an appointment therein I shall gratefully endeavour to deserve your confidence\u2014By the inclosed letters you will perceive that I make this application under the sanction of the Commissioners of the City of Washington. I have the Honor to be, with great respect Sir, your most obedient humble Servant\n          Thos Freeman", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0033", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 13 April 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State April 13. 1796. 6 o\u2019clock p.m.\n        The Secretary of State respectfully lays before the President of the United States letters from Colo. Humphreys from No. 24. to No. 29th\u2014the numbers 27. 28 & 29 with inclosures, the\nSecretary has not been able to examine and arrange till now\u2014they were received yesterday.\n          T. Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0035", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 14 April 1796\nFrom: Knox, Henry\nTo: Washington, George\n          My dear Sir\n        I have received your kind favor of the 4th instant.\n        I shall always regret every circumstance which may obstruct a compliance with your wishes public or private. The appointment of Commissioner would mar most effectually my plans for the Summer, and which are now in an expensive train of execution.\n        There is another circumstance which I confess confidentially, has a considerable influence on my mind, in declining the appointment. I am directly and collaterally very much interested in the lands of the district of Maine. I am impressed with the opinion that our claims are not well founded. But the people of this State have their expectations buoyed up on the subject. Any decision therefore contrary to their wishes may be liable to wrong constructions, not only against me as interested but against the executive for appointing such a person.\n        It would seem upon closer reflection most proper, that a person not of this state should be appointed as Commissioner. My mind lately has fixed upon Colonel Wadsworth but I do not know whether he would accept. Judge Sullivan would make a very proper agent, and advocate for the U. States.\n        I have however in a private letter to Colonel Pickering mentioned that under certain circumstances the appointment might stand as it is for the present. Not that I desire it, but merely as it might be expedient to have an ostensible appearance on the part of the executive of a readiness to execute the treaty.\n        The great Mass of the people of New England, I verily beleive 9/ 10ths approve of yr reply to the house of representatives, as truly wise and unanswerable.\n        The abuse of certain newspap\u27e8ers\u27e9 produces no other effect than indignation.\n        No cheif Magistrate ever possessed in a greater degree the affection and respect of the people than you do. I am my dear Sir with perfect attachment and respect Your humble Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0036", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Joseph Priestley, 14 April 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Priestley, Joseph\n        The President U.S. has, agreeably to his promise, caused the Laws of the U. States \u201cto promote the progress of useful arts &c.\u201d to be examined; and finds that the last act passed on this subject, vizt on the 21st of Feby 1793 (repealing the first act of the 10th of April 1790), confines the granting of patents to citizens of the United States. The first act of the 10th April 1790 does not appear to have limited this right to any particular description of persons; and why it is thus confined in the second, the President can, at this time, see no good reason; but he will take occasion to enquire into the cause of this limitation; & if it should not appear improper, to relinquish it, he can have no doubt of the disposition of the Legislature to make such alteration in the existing law as will give to the U.S. the advantage which may arise from the useful inventions or improvements of foreigners, as well as of our own Citizens.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0037", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Abraham Small and John Thompson, 14 April 1796\nFrom: Small, Abraham,Thompson, John\nTo: Washington, George\n          Philadelphia April 14, 1796\n        We hope we do not take an unpardonable Liberty by endeavouring to get the proposals herewith enclosed, into your hands for perusal.\n        If you, Sir, will have the Goodness to look them through, they will fully explain the motives which have guided us, and the views we have in the completion of our Undertaking.\n        We are conscious of having made a successful effort to raise\nthe most useful of all the Arts, to the same summit of excellence in America\u2014from which she has in Europe long drawn forth general admiration.\n        Whilst we are endeavouring to bring to perfection that Art from which mankind derive all they know\u2014which has ever been the Guardian of Liberty, nothing can be more natural than our Wish that the name of Washington, should be first among our Patrons.\n        Our Prayer is, that your Excellency will look at so much of our performance as we have finished\u2014we hope it will then speak for itself. We, are with the utmost Deference, Your Excellency\u2019s Most humble servants\n          Abrm SmallJohn Thompson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0038", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 14 April 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n          Treasury Department April 14th 1796.\n        The Secretary of the Treasury respectfully submits to the consideration of the President of the United States, a Letter from the Commissioner of the Revenue, accompanied with an account of fifteen hundred & sixty two gallons of oil purchased at New York for the use of the Lighthouse establishment.\n        As it appears that this Oil has been obtained on terms favorable to the United States, the Secretary is of opinion that it will be adviseable to confirm the purchase. All which is respectfully submitted.\n          Oliver Wolcott JrSecy of the Treasy", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0039", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 14 April 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n          Treasury Department April 14th 1796\n        The Secretary of the Treasury respectfully submits to the consideration of The President of the United States a Letter from the Commissioner of the Revenue of the 12th Instant enclosing the copy of a Contract entered into by the Collector of Wilmington with Isaac Davis for the stakeage of Cape Fear river in North Carolina.\n        The Secretary is of opinion that it will be for the interest of the United States to confirm the said Contract. All which is respectfully submitted.\n          Oliver Wolcott JrSecy of the Treasy", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0040", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Christopher Myers, 15 April 1796\nFrom: Myers, Christopher\nTo: Washington, George\n          City of Washington [D.C.]April 15th 1796\n          M[a]y it Please your Excellency\n        I should have written long before this time were it not, that the substantial matter on which I could wish to give a clear opinion upon, has not in My mind come into that digested form so as to be perfect in representation.\n        I feel how much I trifle with your time, but fearfull, that a continued scilence may give cause for thoughts prejudicial to that respectfull gratitude I hourly feel\u2014I have taken the liberty of addressing myself to your Excellency\u2014and to return you my thanks for the introduction you have given me to Mr Lear whos communications on the Potomac navigation [h]as been of real and essential service to me.\n        Mr Lear will have communicated to your Excellency the substance of the various reports I have made on the subject of the River, and future plans of operation\u2014having met with the approbation of the Board of directors\u2014My constant end[ea]vour shall be the bring[ing] to perfection this great national concern.\n        I am proud in the Idea of having to execute an object\noriginally formed by your Excellency and which has been so Long in contemplation.\n        Permit me to add to my gratitude My prayers, that your Excellency may long continue to exersize that strenght of mind so benificial to your countrys prosperity and Wellfare. I have the honor be M[a]y it please your Excellency\u2014Your most Obliged and humble Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0041", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 15 April 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State April 15. 1796.\n        The Secretary of State begs leave to inform the President of the United States, that the patent for Benjamin Tyler is destined to be carried to him by Mr Strong, who will leave town to-morrow morning by three o\u2019clock. If the President should find time to attend to it before this evening, the Secretary will then have the honor to receive it at the President\u2019s house.\n          Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0042", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James Ross, 15 April 1796\nFrom: Ross, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          Philadelphia 15. april 1796\n        By this days post I learn that Charles Morgan is dead. The report says that he died on his way home from Kentuckey. Colo. Ritchie who purchased your lands upon Millers Run in Washington County is desirous that the lines should be run & the quantity Ascertained as soon as possible. I suggest to you the propriety of writing to Colo. Presly Neville on this subject, he is now at Pittsburgh, & by enclosing to him the courses and distances, mentioned in your patent, he can go upon the ground & execute the Survey without delay. Colo. Ritchie States that he will at all events pay a Sum equal to what may be supposed due upon the first of June & make the necessary arrangements afterwards, Should it be inconvenient to you, or impracticable to accomplish the Settlement sooner.\n        Enclosed is a check for the money paid by Colo. Shreve & I will wait upon you to morrow morning before the Post goes out to know what Answer I shall send to Colo. Ritchie. With perfect respect I have the Honour to be Sir your most obedient humble Servant\n          James Ross", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0043", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Vincent Redman, 16 April 1796\nFrom: Redman, Vincent\nTo: Washington, George\n          Collectors office Port of Yeocomico [Va.]16th April 1796\n        I beg yr permission to resign my Office, & I therefore inclose my Commissions as Collector & Inspector at the Port of Yeocomico on the Potomac.\n        When honor\u2019d with these appointments I received them with gratitude, nor shou\u2019d the small salary ass[i]gn\u2019d by Congress as a compensation for my Trouble been of itself a reason Sufficient to induce my present application, but the Inconvenience of my family residence b\u27e8ein\u27e9g 16 Miles from the Port, & the consequent necessity of employing a Deputy will plead my excuse for my resignation.\n        My Deputy was (for six months past) and now is Mr James A. Thompson a resident on the river Yeocomico, his attentive assiduity claims my warmest thanks, and as Mr Thompson is anxious for this appointment, I use the freedom Sir, to mention his Name as my Successor & to add that an application to the Heads of Departments will do Justice to the oppinion Therein express of Mr Thompson, I beg leave Sir, to assure you of my respect, esteem & gratitude & have the honor to be Sir, Yr Mo. Obt Servt\n          Vincent Redman", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0044", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Burwell Bassett, Jr., 17 April 1796\nFrom: Bassett, Burwell Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n        As it is always agreable to find others interested in the wellfare of those to whom we are attached I trust it will not be unpleasant to you that I take the liberty to adress you relative to those poor little orphans your and my nephews, and their sister. The goodness of Mr Lears heart will no doubt bind then like a father to them and was it not for the interference of his business in no ones hands could they do better. In his letters to me he seems to expect the boys will remain with him if this is your wish I shall acquiesce but could wish that Charles was to be with me as after the present summer I shall be living in Williamsburg which will afford every advantage of education if in the earlier stages thereof there be any thing material except the care of an interested friend to guard him against the snares of vice.\n        I shall write to Mr Lear on this subject by the next mail. With respect and esteem your obt Sert\n          Burwell Bassett", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0046", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 17 April 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n          Mr Pearce\n          Philadelphia 17th April 1796.\n        Your letter of the 10th instt with a Postcript three days later, came to hand in due course of Post.\n        I am sorry to hear that Maria continues unwell\u2014& that Charles Washington was siezed with a fever: Let them want for nothing, and whenever it is needful get Doctr Craik to attend them.\n        It would be unlucky, as my crop of Wheat last year turned out but indifferently, and the prospect of a good one this year, bad; if I should have missed the best Market for flour. If there ever was good cause for flour\u2019s selling for fifteen dollars per barrel, hitherto; there is none, that I know of, for the fall in the price of this article now, for all accounts from Europe agree, that the Crops of Wheat are very short, & the apprehensions of the Want of bread, great. Under these circumstances I am at a loss to what to ascribe the reduced price; & therefore will keep mine up for the price mentioned in my last; until I have better evidence than appears to me at present, for this fall. but authorise you, as I did in my last, to take Mr Smiths offer, if you cannot obtain better terms.\n        If a good occasion offers, I will make some enquiry of Mr Christie into the character of Mr Joseph Gallop, and his brothers; not that I expect there is any chance of agreeing with them; first, because I do not want the Land and Negros to go together. and 2dly because 2000 bushels of Wheat pr ann. for River farm is very little more for the land, Negros & Stock, than what I ask for the land alone; as there is 1207 acres within the present fences, of ploughable ground. I knew, that by fixing the Rent in Wheat (while it bore so high a price) would make it appear high; but I believe no reasonable person expects, when Peace is established, that it will be more than a dollar. and if it was more, that the trouble or expence in raising it would be greater. Besides, as Wheat is a staple article, it will be the standard or regulating price of other articles: and is equal & just, for both Landlord and Tenant; for otherwise, if instead of a bushel & half of wheat pr acre, I was to set a dollar & half, and the former should rise, by degrees, to 25/; and other things (which I might have occasion to buy) in proportion; a money rent, under such\ncircumstances, would be ruinous to me; on the other hand, if it was at \u00a35 pr Bushel, the Rent (for the reason already mentioned, namely, that it costs the Tenant no more to raise it) would not be oppressive to him; & even if it were to be bot if the price of a Cow, a sheep, or a hog bore a proportionate price, the difficulty in paying for it would not be greater than if it was at 6/ and the price of other articles was governed thereby.\n        Are all the repairs to the Mansion and other houses completed? If the windows in the Corn & hay lofts, over the Stables, and on the back side, are not put in, I request they may be; as both lofts and Stables wants Air exceedingly.\n        If Mr Robt Lewis has not been to Mt Vernon, keep the enclosed until his arrival\u2014but if he has been there & gone, let it go to the Post Office, I am Your frd &ca\n          G. Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0047", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 17 April 1796\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n          Mount vernon april 17th 1796\n        I have Recevd your Letter of the 10th Instant with Respect to the price of Flour It sells In alexandria for a 11 or 12 dollars \u214c Barrell at most for cash and I beleve some Gives 13 Dollars \u214c Barrell on a Creddit of 60 days\u2014Mr Smith has Returnd from New york and I have Sounded him on the subject of buying yours at 15 Dollars \u214c Barrell at the c[r]edit he offered to take it at before he went from home But he sais he would not buy flour now at that price at a Creddit of 6 months\u2014and the most he would give\nnow on that Creddit would be 14 dollars \u214c barell for superfine and 13 [1]/2 Dollars \u214c Barrell for fine.\n        Mr Robert Lewis has been here and has paid Into my hands \u00a3169.17.6 and said he should Leave a draft In alexandria for \u00a340 more. but That I have not yet Recevd\u2014he sais it will not sut him to take the Jack Compound as it was too Late In the season before he got notice of it.\n        The weather still keeps dry we have not had any rain yet to do any good. thare was a small shour Last friday eve[n]ing which only Lasted for a few minutes I fear that all the wheat barly & oats will be all Ruined with the Drouth. you mention that you ware affraid that the fences ware not put up well or Elese they would not have blown down so often but I can assure you that they ware well made and I do not think you will dislike them when you see them But the wind was so Voilent hard that they could not possable stand aganst it all the Nieghbourhood shared the same fate.\n        The appearon[c]e for Catching herring Is better Than It was but we have not Caught Scarcely any shad\u2014and I do not beleve many will be Caught here this season. and we have an Exelent Seine and a Greater Length of Rope those say who are used to the fishery than they Ever saw used here before.\n        Miss Marriah washington & her brothers are all well now\u2014when I wrote you befor Charles was ve[r]y Sick but he is now quite Recovred. I am with the Greatest Respect Sir you[r] Humb. Servt\n          William Pearce", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0050", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Duncan McLaren, 18 April 1796\nFrom: McLaren, Duncan\nTo: Washington, George\n          Raehill [Scotland] Aprill 18th 1796\n        Doubting not but it will appear Strange and great presumtion in me who are a mean Mechanic to trouble Such a great man with my writing from a Foreign Country and having no title to any favour from you: yet I hope in hearing my Claim you will in Some measure excuse me; I was bred a Mason and taught in the differant branches of that trade Such as Stone Cuting and building Stones and bricks; I was employed eight years building Bridges and Canales and Sixteen building Houses the most part of which time I was employed in building a House to the Earl of Hopetoun on his estate in Annandale; and now about finished: I have a great inclination to go to America and by reason of my large family I am unable to pay for our passage without Some help. By often hearing of your Character induced me to aply to you for help that if you needed one of my trade or Could help me to employment the[n] you would Cause to write or Speak to a Captain of a Vessel that trades from your Country to this Country to bring me over and I and my family will be at your Disposal till what money you lay out be paid with reasonable interest and my family will be willing to work at what you think best till the money be Paid; If you think proper to incourage me to Come I will bring letters from the Earl of hoptoun and other Gentlemen to testify my Character and my ability in the diferent branches of the Mason trade and you will find that what I write is real; and if you be pleased to grant this favour I will Surely ever look on you as my benefactor; This ruinous war is greatly hurt this Country and although a peace was made we are afraid it is the beginning of our troubles by reason of the enormous burdens that we are under this is part of the reason why So many emigrate to that hapy Country of which So much is Spoke of; and that free nation who is So much envied. May you Sir live long to See the good effects of that government that you was So much an instrument of bringing about.\n        This letter Come to you with a Mason that has wrougt long with me and if he Can he is to deliver it with his own hand and however employs him will find him a very worthy man and deserves to be trusted with any kind of mason work. Sir I am your mot obdt mot Huble Servt\n          Duncan McLaren\n          N.B. If you think proper to Cause to write Direct to me Mason to the Earl of Hopetoun at Raehill near Moffat North Britain. D. McL.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0051", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 18 April 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate\n          Gentlemen of the Senate\n          United States April 18th 1796.\n        I nominate John McIntosh to be Collector and Inspector of the Revenue for the Port of Brunswick, in the State of Georgia, in the room of Christopher Hillary deceased: and\n        Stephen Skinner to be Surveyor and Inspector of the Revenue for the Port of Hartford in the State of North Carolina, in the room of Josiah Murdaugh resigned.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0052", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 19 April 1796\nFrom: Lear, Tobias\nTo: Washington, George\n          My dear Sir,\n          [Philadelphia] Tuesday Morng 19th Apl 96\n        Could I beleive, for a moment, that you thought my Opinions were grounded on interested motives, or influenced by party views, I should blush to appear before you; but having long known the liberality of your mind, I have never hesitated to declare my sentiments to you, without reserve, on such points as occasionally occurred between us; and I am pleased to think that you do not esteem me less for this openness, even when our opinions have not coincided with each other.\n        I have, however, since our conversation last Evening, been much distressed, lest the manner in which I then expressed myself should not have been done with that respect and deference which my heart always pays to you: And I shall not feel at peace with myself \u2019till I am assured of your forgiveness; for to lose that place which I flatter myself I have held in your esteem, would now be the most painful occurrence that could happen to your devoted & most affectionate friend\n          Tobias Lear.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0053", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Joseph Leech, 19 April 1796\nFrom: Leech, Joseph\nTo: Washington, George\n          Newbern North Carolina 19th April 1796\n        The Inhabitants of the Town of Newbern hope they may stand excused for any forwardness, or indiscretion which may appear in this address, if the[y] convey to you expressions of gratitude and approbation, as the only return your fellow Citizens have the power of making for the hard and in some instances, vexatious burden, which their affections and confidence have placed upon you.\n        We consider, Sir, that your having refused to comply with the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 24th March, upon the ground you have taken, among the most signal acts of service which your eminent Virtues & Talents have rendered your Country; as the influence of your examples, may prolong the date of the Constitution, many ages beyond what might have been the short period of its\u2019 existence, had you admitted the principle, and yielded to the requisition of the House\u2014It is the pride and the boast of every enlightened American, that the principles which have been associated in the composition of our most excellent Constitution, have eminently qualified it to extend the most perfect liberty, security and protection, to every rank and condition of life, and they, who know how to appreciate such a blessing, cannot see any act, that may have the most remote tendency to rob them of it, without alarm, nor behold any exertion to preserve it, but with emotions of gratitude.\n        In addition, suffer us to express the warmest wishes which grateful hearts can feel for your welfare, that it may be the happiness of America, long to experience the Wisdom of your influence in the management of affairs; and that you may long enjoy that satisfaction which the confidence and gratitude of a happy People is capable of conferring. In behalf of the Citizens of the Town of Newbern I have the Honor to be with The most profound Respect Sir Your most obedient and very humble Servant\n          Joseph Leech Ch[airma]n", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0054", "content": "Title: To George Washington from George Lewis, 19 April 1796\nFrom: Lewis, George\nTo: Washington, George\n          Fredericksburg [Va.] 19th April 1796\n        Mrs Lewis\u2019s indisposition has detained me in the country for eight dayes past, which prevented my getting your letter of the 7th Inst. untill to day, otherwise it would have been immediately acknowledged.\n        With respect to Mr Parks, he is a young Man in the Mercantile line, appears industrious and attentive to his buisness. I have known him for twelve months past, and from his conduct since living in this place has been countenanced and respected by the first characters in town and neighbourhood\u2014he has alwayes been spoke of as connected in trade with his Brother in law at Baltimore, but in what proportion, I am not able to ascertain, but conjecture (from his mode of doing buisness) that he has been altogether in the commission line, his selling for ready money, and having never been engaged in the purchase of produce and makeing his remitances altogether in money, convinces me that I am not wrong in my conjecture\u2014as to his\nfamily I am told, his Father is an industrious farmer in Maryland with a small property, from whom he can have no expectation, in short his marrying Harriot at this time would be madness in the extreme, at all events, I think it would be well to put it of[f] untill your return to Virginia, by which time you can have an opportunity of being better acquainted, with Mr Parks\u2019s prospects in life, and give them time to reflect seriously on what they are about, at present I conceive it has been an inconsiderate step on both sides.\n        Mr Parks is a young Man of good talents and discovers a disposition to do well, and I have not a doubt with industry but he may in a short time acquire the means to support a family, at present, I really think it would be unwise in them to attempt it\u2014Your letter to my Mother was taken from the post office by her directions, before I came to town\u2014and forwarded to her at Mr Carters in culpeper county, where she and Harriot now are, and have been for these ten dayes past\u2014my love to my Aunt. I am with the utmost respect Yr Affectionate Nephew", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0055", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Robertson, 19 April 1796\nFrom: Robertson, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n          Honoured & Dear Sir\n        Stand Unmoved in the Integerity of your Heart on the Solid Ground in Which Our Divine Master has placed You as Presedent of the United States See with Wondour how A Wise Providence is Carr[y]ing on the Plan in Disposeing of all the Distractions that take place in our National Afairs how the plans formed by Wicked & Desginneing Men are Overturned and made to Work for the General Good I can See it clearly by that Party in the National Assembly who have combined to Overset our happie Goverment and Oppose the Treaty entred into with Britian\nthe good effects of which has Already been experenced in the keeping this Country in Pace and out of a Destructive Warr The Good effects of there Wicked plan is this The Whole Contenent is alarmed with there Conduct and particulary the Mercantile Intrest in whose hands the principal Wealth of the Country are Lodged and are the Springs of its circulation have Judged it prudent to Stop Trade and not Exporte or Insure property only for Sea Risque to Europe This has had Such an effect on the Mind of the publick that provisions of every kind have fallen from 15 to 20 per Cent in Value Nothing but a publick alarm Such as the present could have brought about Such a change in the price of Provisions for the Good of the poor So that this is one Good end the present Wicked Men have brought about contrary to there Intention and No doubt our Gracouse God will also frustrate all there other wicked Schames and make them Work for the Good this Country and they Shall have Shame and Disgrace for that part they have Acted You have the Aprobation and the prayers of the Godly for your Suport Aproveing of the line your conduct and you have Nothing to fear from the plans of Wicked Men our God will carry you Honourably through and I hope Crown you with better Honours then this poor World can give Belive me to be with great regard Your Most Obedent & very Humb. St\n          Alexander Robertson\n          N.B. The Merchants & Traders this City have had a Meeting this day at Coffiee House To Send a Petition to Congress to Adopt the Treaty & make provision for it with G. Britian which petition will be as respectable One as has been ever before Congress as our demecrates now hang there Head very low.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0056", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Keon, 20 April 1796\nFrom: Keon, John\nTo: Washington, George\n          Carrick on Shannon [Ireland] 20th April 1796\n        When Elevated Characters are Solicited to grant the request of their Humble Petitioners the abuse of time and words wasted in Compliments Eulogiums &ca to the great annoyance of the Petitioned in my mind deserves reprehension\u2014From your Excellency\u2019s general character in these Realms without any such frippery or parade I take leave to call on your Excellencys Humanity if possible to direct me. I think the year 1775 or shortly before the troubles in that Country commenced there lived in Buck\u2019s County and Province of Pensylvania a Peter Keon (Brother to my father Bartholomew) a Magistrate and Counsellor at Law as stated by his Letter; a widower shortly after his Marriage with a Miss Cartland who died without Issue and in right of whom Peter her Husband Inherited a property to a considerable amount, Six or Eight hundred a year, she was an orphan but the Daughter of a Gentleman of distinction and as I understand she was under the Guardianship of her uncle by the Father, who refused his consent to the Marriage consequently after her decease he disputed Peter\u2019s title to said property but Peter defeated him and established his claim of course. From\nthe date of the Letter which I allude to or the happy restoration of Peace to that Country not a word heard from him, a Circumstance the more alarming as being remarkable for his attachment to his family. He was then forty years of age and upwards of fine person and manly appearance. If he died without Issue the probability is (no Kinsman of his near him to dispute their title) that his Wife\u2019s Connections reassumed the property, granting in one Instance that they have a right to it, yet if the fact is that they are in possession your Excellency may admit that his Heir at Law or next of Kin shoud share in the prosperity which attended his adventures; and if not the whole, to get a part. In vain have I referred to many Characters many ways and means for Information but the manly Idea of hazarding an application to your Excellency may be more prosperous and prove of service and Consolation to me and Peter\u2019s Connections if thro the medium intended any discovery shall be made\u2014If your Excellency ordered a few Lines directed \u201cCarrick on Shannon County Leitrim Ireland\u201d no doubt they woud be most gratefully acceptable to me a Man who adores Honor and Humanity in any person and may it please your Excellency with the utmost deference Have the Honor to be Your Excellency\u2019s Humble Petitioner & Servt\n          John Keon M:D.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0057", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Edward Carrington, 22 April 1796\nFrom: Carrington, Edward\nTo: Washington, George\n        The late Votes of the House of Representatives which have just reached us, and from which it appears that appropriations are not entended to be made for giving effect to the Treaty between the U. States and Great Britain, have in my opinion brought our political maladies to a crisis. The disorganizing machinations of a faction are no longer left to be nourished and inculcated on the minds of the credulous, by clamorous demagogues, while the great mass of Citizens, viewing these, as evils at a distance, remain inactive. The consequences of a failure of the Treaty are too plain, and too threatening to the unparalleled happiness and prosperity we enjoy, not to excite alarm in the minds of all\nwho are attached to peace & order\u2014this class of Citizens will now come forward & speak for themselves, and will be found to compose the great body of the community\u2014I may possibly be mistaken\u2014I however feel a confidence in an opinion, that the sense of Virginia to the purpose, will shortly be extensively expressed, in public meetings and by Petitions\u2014A meeting of the people of this City, will take place on Monday next, for the purpose of expressing their opinions on the pending measures, and setting on foot a Petition or remonstrace, to the House of Representatives, thereon. From what I can learn from various parts of the Country I verily believe that similar measures will be adopted, at least, in many Counties. Feeling as I do, a strong conviction that the intelligence contained in this letter is well founded, I have indulged myself in the satisfaction of communicating it to you, and hope that events will realise it. with unalterable attachment and confidence I have the Honor to be Dear Sir Your Most Ob. st\n          Ed. Carrington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0058", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Charles Lee, 22 April 1796\nFrom: Lee, Charles\nTo: Washington, George\n          Philadelphia 22 April 1796\n        There is reason to believe unless the Congress during their present Session shall make some addition to the fees or emoluments now allowed to the Attornies of the United States in the several Districts, that some of the most useful of those Officers will resign and their vacancies I fear it will be found impossible to fill with fit persons. None but eminent Counsel ought to be called to those Offices, and I am persuaded that on their present establishment they ought rather to be rejected than accepted by such Characters; and more especially in the larger States in which Courts are necessarily held by the District Judge at various places distant from the residence of the Attorney as occasions require. I beg leave therefore to suggest the propriety of allowing to each District Attorney a small Salary to be apportioned to the trouble and service that may reasonably be expected in each State in addition to the fees and emoluments now established by Law. These though small, will defray many of the necessary contingencies in the transaction of their duties, and will render the Offices more acceptable when if not profitable they will not expose the Citizens who take them to expences that are not reimbursed. With the most profound respect I am Sir Your most obedient Servant\n          Charles Lee", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0059", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Charles Carroll of Carrollton, 23 April 1796\nFrom: Carroll, Charles (of Carrollton)\nTo: Washington, George\n          Annapolis 23d April 1796\n        The principal surveyor in the city of Washington has applied to me to recommend him to be appointed to lay out, under the direction of general Knox, the boundary lines between the United States and Canada, & has transmitted to me an authenticated copy of a letter from the Commissioners to you recommending him to that appointment. My recommendation can add but little, if any, weight to that of the Commissioners; however I can with truth say from my experience & knowledge of Mr Freeman that he deserves the character given of him by those gentlemen.\n        Mr Richard Sprigg Junr is elected a Representative in the room of Mr Duvall. The citizens of this town have instructed him to vote for the appropriations to carry into effect & operation the british treaty\u2014In this measure our citizens were nearly unanimous. It being county-court week several respectable persons from the county were present at the meeting; all of them approved of instructing and would willingly have signed the instructions, but not being citizens of Annapolis, it was thought improper: I believe they will be signed by almost every influential character in the county to whom these or similar instructions may be presented.\n        The proceedings of the H. of Representatives have excited a very general alarm amongst us, thinking as we do, that they have a strong tendency to involve this country in a war, a measure deprecated by every well wisher to it.\n        Removed from the scene of action, and having no correspondence with any members of either branch, I am totally at a loss to account for the motives of the Majority. Do they wish to engross all power to themselves, & to destroy the checks & balances established by the Constitution? does a blind & inveterate hatred to G.B., and an inordinate & impolitic predilection for France influence their conduct? Is it the real interest of this country, that either of those powers should obtain a decided superiority over the other? does not our tranquility depend on their remaining pretty equally balanced? Pardon, Sir, if they are improper, these questions, & sentiments; they are the overflowings of a mind deeply agitated by the present very important Crisis. What can the Representatives expect, if the treaty remains unexecuted\non our part? another treaty more favorable? surely they Can not entertain a reasonable hope of such an event: and yet I see no alternative between setting on foot another treaty to resettle matters already settled by a treaty already made, but not executed, or going to war with G.B., or of tamely & ignominiously submitting to the continued detention of the posts, & part of our territory, & farther depredations in, & obstructions to our commerce.\n        On your steadiness & wisdom, Sir, on the firmness & Judgment of the Senate, combined with the exertions of all good citizens, & principally on that kind Providence, which has hitherto preserved us, wisely for our deliverance from the dangers which now hang over us.\n        I beg a tender of my respectful compliments to Mrs Washington and remain with Sentiments of the highest respect & regard Dr Sir Yr most obdt hum. Servant\n          Ch. Carroll of Carrollton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0060", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Burwell Bassett, Jr., 24 April 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Bassett, Burwell Jr.\n            Philadelphia 24th Apl 1796\n          Your letter of the 17th inst: was received yesterday. With you, I sincerely regret the death of your amiable Sister; but as it is one of those events which is dispensed by an allwise and uncontroulable Providence; and as I believe no person could be better prepared to meet it, it is the duty of her relatives to submit, with as little repining as the Sensibility of our natures is capable of.\n          Mr Lear is now in this City\u2014& before the receipt of your letter we had had some conversation respecting the disposition of the children. At first, he seemed unwilling to part with any of them\u2014but upon more mature reflection yielded to the propriety of your having Maria. And as he has engaged a tutor, and was on the point of taking his own Son home, it was concluded that the boys should remain with him until my re-establishment (next March) at Mount Vernon; when some new arrangement might be made.\n          It was always my intention, as you probably may have understood, to take Fayette under my immediate care, but as they are now bereft of father and mother it would be best, I conceive, and more grateful to their feelings to keep them together, in whatsoever situation they may be placed\u2014for this reason, as I have mentioned before, the ultimate decision relative to them may be postponed until I bid adieu to public life; when I will advise with you and Mr Lear on their future destination and shall readily acquiesce in any plan which shall appear most conducive to their permanent interest, & advantage. With compliments to Mrs Bassett and esteem & regard for yourself I am\u2014Dear Sir Your Obedient Servt\n            Go: Washington\n          The Children at present are all at Mount Vernon.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0061", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Law, 24 April 1796\nFrom: Law, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n          Baltimore 24 April [1796]\n        I took the liberty of introducing Mr Barry at Mount Vernon, he now waits upon you to inform you of Eliza\u2019s health, & of our mutual happiness.\n        We regret very much that the business of Congress has caused so long a detention of Mrs Washington & you from your retirement & comfort\u2014& are very anxious to wellcome you home.\nI remain With much respect & unfeigned esteem & affection Yrs mt Sy & Obly\n          Thomas Law", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0062", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 24 April 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n          Mr Pearce,\n          Philadelphia 24th April 1796.\n        I am sorry to find by your letter of the 17th instant, accompanying the reports of the preceeding week, that the drought continued; and that the prospect for good crops of small grain was so unpromising. I should hope, however, that they cannot be so much injured yet, as not to be recovered by seasonable weather. If the grain stands sufficiently thick on the ground, I shall not regard the backwardness of it, occasioned by the want of rain; running much into straw is no service to the grain. I had flattered myself (until your letter was received) that the fine rain which fell in these parts on Saturday the 16th instant, had extended to you. The alteration occasioned by it, both in grain & grass in the neighbourhood of this city, is very great indeed.\n        I wish, as your prospect for grain is discouraging, that it may, in a degree, be made up in a good fishing season for Herrings; that for Shad, must, I presume, be almost, if not quite over.\n        As I can see no permanent cause for the fall, in the price of flour, and believe it will rise again; I am not, at this time at least, disposed to take less for mine than has been mentioned in my former letters to you: but continue to advise me, always, of the Alexandria price of this article; that I may know better how to govern myself.\n        I expected Mr Robert Lewis\u2019s collection would have amounted to more than \u00a3169.17.6 and the promised draught for forty pounds, which you had not, at the time of writing, received. This, and other money, except for current expences, had better\nbe deposited in the Bank of Alexandria, as a place of security; & from whence it can be drawn when wanted.\n        Since the receipt of your letter of the 10th, I have seen Mr Hughs, to whom Joseph Gallop & his brothers are tenants, on Spesusa Island. He speaks of them in favorable terms; as honest, industrious men, and good farmers. But it is somewhat extraordinary that the one who was with you, should entertain an idea of giving no more than 2000 bushels of Wheat as a rent for River farm, with all the Negros and Stock thereon; when, for 450 acres only, (about the half of Spesusa Island, for Mr Hughs says they have no more ground tho\u2019 they are allowed the use of the Marsh for their Cattle to run upon) they pay him annually 1200 bushels of Wheat and 1500 bushels of Indian Corn: and before these men had it, the same part rented for 30/ pr Acre. This, reckoning two bushels of Indian Corn for one of wheat, makes 1950 bushels of the latter, or more than four bushels of it to the acre; without labourers, or stock of any kind furnished by him. It is true that the Land on the Island is good, and there is an advantage in the Marsh, as a range; but these are far short of compensating for the difference between Six pecks of wheat, which is all I ask as rent pr acre for mine, and 17\u2153 pecks which (allowing 2 bushls of Corn for one of wheat) he gets for his. I fixed mine at a moderate rent because I wanted to induce good farmers to settle thereon\u2014and would wish to see them thrive, which would enable them to do justice to, and improve the premises; which will be a primary object with me.\n        What prospect have you for fruit this year? Has it sustained any injury yet from the frosts? Have you altered the fields No. 2 & 3 at Dogue run, agreably to the line of stakes set up while I was last at home. Is your Lucern seed sown? and how does that, the Chiccory, and Clover seed come up.\n        I am glad to hear that Maria and Charles have got well again. I wish you health and am Your friend\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0063", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 24 April 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n        Letter not found: from William Pearce, 24 April 1796. GW wrote Pearce on 1 May: \u201cYour letter of the 24th Ulto has been received.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0065", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Edward Carrington, 27 April 1796\nFrom: Carrington, Edward\nTo: Washington, George\n        The meeting of the people of this City & vicinity, of which I did myself the Honor to inform you a few days ago, as being in agitation, took place the day before yesterday, the 25th Inst. and the enclosed paper of Davis of this date, contains the proceedings of the day, also a very correct statement of the manner in\nwhich they were conducted. While I enjoy the satisfaction of being enabled to give you this evidence of the popular sentiment, expressed in a very numerous meeting, in opposition to the declaration of a thin one in the same place on a former occasion, I feel it incumbent on me, on the score of exhibiting the true complexion of our political situation to apprise you that the Enemies of the Treaty, or rather of Government, are putting in practice every art and effort to obtain subscriptions to a counteracting paper\u2014as a sample of the means they descend to for the purpose of imposing on the people at a distance, I also enclose a paper of Dixon of yesterday (the 26th), in which, under the Richmond head, you will find a Representation of the proceedings of the day which exhibits, by the suppression of truth, a most absolute falshood. The Resolutions annexed to his representation are those mentioned in Davis\u2019s paper as proposed by the opposers of the Treaty, and were eventually rejected by the adoption of that which they were offered in opposition to, yet, from the representation, it would appear that the one really carried by a considerable majority was not even listened in the meeting\u2014corresponding committees you see are announced by that party, & there will doubtless be great activity on that side, while, unfortunately, as usual, great lassitude will prevail on the other. I trust & hope they will not succeed, but under such circumstances evil is certainly to be apprehended. there never was a crisis at which the activity of the Friends of Government was more urgently called for\u2014some of us here have endeavoured to make this impression in different parts of the Country\u2014the events of a few days will shew how successfully. I shall endeavor to give you as frequent & correct information as events shall enable me, and have the Honor to be, with unfeigned attachment Dear Sir Your Most Obedt Humble servt\n          Ed. Carrington\n          P.S. the statement in Davis\u2019s Paper is I believe a little incorrect as to School Boys & apprentices Signing the Petition of the supporters of the Treaty\u2014how it is on the other side I know not.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0066", "content": "Title: From George Washington to George Lewis, 28 April 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lewis, George\n          Philadelphia 28th April 1796\n        Not knowing where to direct to your Brother Howell, I put my letter to him, under cover to you\u2014and leave it open for your perusal. to be sealed before delivery.\n        I have not the least knowledge of Mrs Dubarry\u2014or the circumstance she relates\u2014but, if her claim is just, I hope your Brother has more honor than to keep her out of it.\n        Your letter of the 19th has been duly received\u2014I hope Mrs Lewis\u2019s health is restored\u2014My best wishes are offered for it in which your Aunt joins with Dear Sir Your Affecte Uncle\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0067", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 28 April 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate\n          Gentlemen of the Senate\n          United States April 28th 1796\n        I nominate Thomas Nelson to be Attorney for the United States in the District of Virginia, vice Alexander Campbell, who has resigned that Office.\n          G: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0068", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Tobias Lear, 29 April 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lear, Tobias\n          My dear Sir\n          Philadelphia 29th April 1796\n        Yesterday\u2019s Post brought me the letters which had arrived in the Commerce, Captn Tuttell; enclosing Invoice and Bill of lading for the long expected Seeds (which by the bye have cost me at least four times as much as I expected).\n        The Invoice and Bill of lading are now sent to you, lest from the want of them, any difficulty or delay should arise on account of the duties and they are accompanied with an earnest request that the packages may be forwarded to Mr Pearce with as little delay as possible the season for sowing the Peas and Succory\nbeing already far advanced. The Winter vetch cannot be sown before Autumn.\n        If you incline to try some of these Seeds at your farm you are very welcome to part of each sort. When the purposes for which Mr Murrays letter, Invoice & Bill of lading are sent, are answered be so good as to return them to Dear Sir Your Affectionate Sert\n          Go: Washington\n          P.S. If the Seeds should, before the arrival of this letter, have been sent to Mount Vernon, I pray you to contrive the one by some safe conveyance to Mr Pearce. And Washington request you will send the letter he has written to his Sister Peter. It relates to their Carriage & some other matters entrusted to his enquiries.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0069", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 29 April 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n        Letter not found: to William Pearce, 29 April 1796. GW wrote Pearce on Sunday, 1 May: \u201cI wrote you on friday last.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0070", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Andrew Parks, 30 April 1796\nFrom: Parks, Andrew\nTo: Washington, George\n          Baltimore 30th April 1796\n        I have had the honour to receive your Letter of the 7th Instt, and pursuant thereto, I have communicated within a few days,\nthat I have been here; the Subject, to my friend Mr McElderry, on which I am so materially interested, for your approbation; he has written to the Secretary at War, and given him an oppinion of me, of which, I presume you have, or will, be advertis\u2019d. Mr McElderry, has relinquished his part of the concern, in the business, I have been pursuing, which I shall conduct hereafter on my own Acct, and with industry, and his friendship, I expect will be attended with considerable advantages; this is the only amendment in my prospects, I have it in my power to acquaint you with.\n        I hope I possess most of the requisites, necessary to make your Niece, happy; I have been for several Years, accustomed to Business, which has, I am persuaded, kept me clear of a temper, for vicious dispositions; my connexions, are respectable generally, inasmuch as they are people of Business, and mostly in good circumstances. I have described to your Niece, as nearly as I could, what my Situation would afford, in the style of living; which wd not be more than genteel, and comfortable, this she sais, will perfectly satisfy her, and render her happy, provided you can think it sufficient. I am Sir with infinite respect Yr very Hbl. Sert\n          Andrew Parks", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0071", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Marshall, c.April 1796\nFrom: Marshall, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n        I received yours of the 6th of Feby with a duplicate of your other of the 2d of Jany last. The latter I had previously received. If age & infirmaty will not be a sufficient excuse for my not sooner acknowledgeing that honor, I fear I must remain culpable for really I have no better to offer. For tho\u2019 I am not more than one year older than you are I am much farther gone than my wishes lead me to hope you are.\n        Major Lewis will be much more proper to confide the sale of your rough Creek lands to than myself, as he will be on the spot. I have not been able to procure more particular information respecting the quallity of that land than I formerly wrote you, tho\u2019 I expect it every day, as a Gentleman who has it in his power has promis\u2019d me to make the necessary enquiry & inform me.\n        I now can only say that settlements in that quarter encrease rapidly and consiquently the price of Lands increase in the same proportion. Lands of the first quallity in this part of the country are now selling (unimproved) from 40/ to \u00a33 pr Acre & I see no good reason why lands of the same quality may not rise to an equal price there as here when the settlement is equally full.\n        I thank you for the kind notice you take in your PostScript of having seen my son John & am happy to hear of his being well.\n        I now send your terms of sale to one of the Lexington Printers & have ordered a publication of them agreable to your directions. Give me leave to assure you Sir that it is with the greatest pleasure I shal\u27e8l\u27e9 recieve & execute any future request with\nwhic\u27e8h\u27e9 you may think proper to honor me. I have the honor to be with the most respectfu\u27e8l\u27e9 esteem Sir Your most obedient servant\n          T. Marshall", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0072", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Edward Carrington, 1 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Carrington, Edward\n        (Private)\n          Philadelphia 1st May 1796.\n        With much pleasure I received your letter of the 22d ulto; and if the sense of the great body of Citizens in Virginia should be expressed in the manner you seem to expect, it would give me, and I believe I might add every friend to order and good government throughout the United States, very great satisfaction: More so than similar sentiments from any other State in the Union; for people living at a distance from it know not how to believe it possible, that its Representatives both in the General & State Legislatures can speak a language which is repugnant to th\u27e8e\u27e9 Sense of their Constituents; especially too, as they seem to give the tone to all the States south of them.\n        Whatever my own opinion may be on this, or any other subject, interesting to the Community at large, it always has been, and will continue to be, my earnest desire to learn, and to comply, as far as is consistent, with the public sentiment; but it is on great occasions only, and after time has been given for cool and deliberate reflection, that the real voice of the people can be known.\n        The present, however, is one of those great occasions; than which, none more important has occurred, or probably may occur again, to call forth their decision. And to them the appeal is now made. For no candid man, in the least degree acquainted with the progress of this business, will believe for a moment, that the ostensible dispute, was about papers\u2014or that the British Treaty was a good one, or a bad one; but whether there should be a Treaty at all without the concurrence of the house of Representatives: which was striking at once, & boldly too, at\nthe fundamental principles of the Constitution; and if it were established, would render the Treaty making Power not only a nullity, but such an absolute absurdity, as to reflect disgrace on the framers of it: for can any one suppose, that they who framed, or those who adopted that Instrument, ever intended to give the power to the President & Senate to make Treaties (and declaring that when made & ratified, they should be the Supreme law of the land) and in the same breath place it in the powers of the house of Representatives to fix their Veto on them? unless apparent marks of fraud or corruption (which in equity would set aside any contract) accompanied the measure, or such striking evidence of National injury attended their adoption as to make War, or any other evil preferable. Every unbiassed Mind will answer in the Negative.\n        Whence the source, and what the object of all this struggle is, I submit to my fellow citizens. Charity would lead one to hope that the motives to it have been pure. Suspicions, however, speak a different language\u2014and my tongue, for the present, shall be silent. Such further information on this head (or any other similarly important) which may come to your knowledge\u2014and your leisure and inclination may enable you to give\u2014will be very acceptable to Dear Sir Your Obedt & Obliged Servt\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0073", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Charles Carroll of Carrollton, 1 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Carroll, Charles (of Carrollton)\n        (Private)\n          Philadelphia 1st May 1796.\n        Your favor of the 23d Ultimo has been duly received. With respect to the application of Mr Freeman, I shall do, as I always\nhave done on similar occasions, and what I am sure you will approve of\u2014namely to lay the recommendations of applicants by, until the hour comes when nominations are to be made; and then, after reference to them, and an attention to other circumstances (which is often essential) prefer those who seem to have the greatest fitness for the Office.\n        Accompanying the information of the Election of Mr Sprigg, and the Instructions with which he was charged, you propound several interesting questions; such as I am persuaded your own good sense, after a resort to the debates on the important points which have been discussed, will leave you at no loss to solve: Few, however, I believe, acquainted with the proceedings in the Ho. of Representatives, conceive that the real question was, whether the Treaty with G: Britain was a good or a bad one; but whether there should be a Treaty at all without the concurrence of that house; and taking advantage of the partialities in favour of one Nation and of the prejudices against that of another with the aid of such unfavorable interpretations as they were disposed to give to some parts of the Treaty it was conceived that, no occasion more suitable, might ever occur to establish the principle & enlarge the powers they aimed at. On this ground therefore it was resolved to attempt, at every hazard, to render the Treaty making power a Nullity without their consent: nay worse to make it an absolute absurdity; Such as could not fail to reflect disgrace upon the understanding, & wisdom of those who framed, but on those also who adopted the Constitution, from the inconsistency of giving a Power to the President & Senate to make Treaties (and when made and ratified, declaring them to be the Supreme law of the land) and in the same instrument to vest a power in the house of Representatives: to fix their veto upon it unless bribery and fraud was apparent in the transaction (which in equity wd annul any contract) or ruin was so self evident as to make war, or any evil, preferable to the execution.\n        With respect to the motives wch have led to these measures, and which have not only brought the Constitution to the brink of a precipice, but the Peace, happiness & prosperity of the country into eminent danger, I shall say nothing\u2014Charity tells us, they ought to be good. but suspicions say they must be bad. At present, my tongue shall be silent.\n        Every true friend to this Country must see, and feel, that the\npolicy of it is not to embroil ourselves with any Nation whatsoever; but to avoid their disputes & their politics; and if they will harrass one another, to avail ourselves of the Neutral conduct we have adopted. Twenty years peace, with such an increase of population and resources as we have a right to expect; added to our remote situation from the jarring powers, will in all probability enable us, in a just cause to bid defiance to any power on earth. Why then should we\u2014prematurely embar\u27e8k\u27e9 (for the attainment of trifles comparatively speaking) in hostilities\u2014the issue of which is never certain\u2014always expensive\u2014& beneficial to a few only (the least deserving perhaps) whilst it must be distressing & ruinous to the great mass of our Citizens. But enough of this\u2014the people must decide for themselves and probably will do so, notwithstanding the vote has gone in favor of the appropriations by a majority of 51. to 48 as the principle and assumption of power which has been contended for remain although the consequences by the present decision probably will be avoided. With esteem & regard I am\u2014Dear Sir Your most Obedt Se\u27e8r.\u27e9\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0074", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Joseph de Maisonneuve, 1 May 1796\nFrom: Maisonneuve, Joseph de\nTo: Washington, George\n          Romain motier Canton of Bernein Switzerland 1st May 1796\n          mr President,\n        M. The Grand Master of Malta, my sovereign, \u27e8or\u27e9ders me to transmit the inclosed Letter to your Excellency.\n        In fulfilling this duty, I venture mr President to renew the respectful solicitations which I have already had the honor of presenting to you in order to obtain from your goodness the favor\nwhich the Grand master of malta has been pleased to request for me. I am, with the most profound respect Your Excellency\u2019s most obt & very humble servt\n          The Commander of Maisonneuve", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0075", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 1 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n          Mr Pearce,\n          Philadelphia May 1st 1796.\n        Your letter of the 24th Ulto has been received, and I am sorry to find by it that the drought still continued with you. On this day week there was a very good rain here, and on wednesday following a great deal fell; but the weather has been windy, cold and disagreeable ever since\u2014notwithstanding which, the Grain and grass in these parts look extremely well.\n        I am glad to find that you were, at the date of your letter, so near the completion of Corn-planting; and hope, if you have had the late rains, that it will have come up well, for I think this happens best when it is planted dry, & rains come after.\n        I wrote you on friday last (and put the letter under cover to Mr Lear) informing you, that the Seeds were arrived at last; at George Town: and expressing an earnest wish that the Peas & Chiccory might be got into the ground as soon as possible and that the Peas, as they were of two distinct sorts\u2014might be seperately, and distinctly sown. I wished also, that the Chiccory might be sown as convenient to the Stables at the different farms, as fit ground could be obtained; as it was designed to be cut and fed green to the work horses. The Winter vetch must be carefully preserved till autumn, as that is the season for sowing it.\n        I am sorry to find that flour continues to depreciate in price; but the present cause for this is, the dispute in the House of Representatives respecting the provisions for carry the British Treaty into effect; which has, for sometime past, occasioned a suspension in purchasing, shipping, & the Insurance of all sorts of property: but as the discussion is now brought to a close, it is to be hoped, and expected, that matters will recover their former tone again. At any rate, I will risque there getting worse, rather than take the present Alexandria price for my flour: but I repeat what I have said in former letters, that I will take 15 dollars, at 6 months credit.\n        By a letter which I received from Mr Robt Lewis (dated in Alexandria, the 21st of last month) he informs me that he had left for, and on my acct, in the hands of Messrs Bennett & Watts, of that place, the Sum of Forty pounds; which it would be proper you should receive, and place it with the sum he paid into your own hands.\n        I am surprized to find by the Reports so few calves produced from my stock. Does it proceed from indifferent Bulls, or the Want of them. Be it either, or from any other cause, a remedy should be applied. and I wish the same with respect to the Rams, as the number of my Lambs are not equal to what they formerly were.\n        I would have you again stir up the pride of Cyrus; that he may be the fitter for my purposes against I come home; sometime before which (that is as soon as I shall be able to fix on the time) I will direct him to be taken into the house, and clothes to be made for him. In the meanwhile, get him a strong horn comb and direct him to keep his head well combed, that the hair, or wool may grow long. I wish you well and am Your friend\n          Go: Washington\n          P.S. By a Vessel which says she will sail from hence to Alexa. on Wednesday next, I shall send two dozn Windsor Chairs which the Captn has promised to land as he passes Mount Vernon. Let them be put in the New Room.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0076", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 1 May 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n        Letter not found: from William Pearce, 1 May 1796. GW wrote Pearce on 8 May: \u201cI am glad to find by your letter of the first instant, that the rain wch fell here on the 27th Ulto had extended to you.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0077", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 2 May 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        I have the honour to submit several letters & papers from the Governor of the State of New-York for your information and further directions.\n        As the Government of the State of New-York is desirous that a treaty should be authorised to be held with certain chiefs of the Cohnawagas or seven nations of Canada, now at New York, for the purpose of enabling the State to purchase from them a right or claim which they set up to a parcel of land laying within its limits.\n        And as the extinguishment of the said claim may tend to preserve a good understanding between these Indians and the United States; and be necessary to the safety and quiet of those persons who have settled or may settle upon the land in question, under the authority of New-York, the desire of the State would seem reasonable and proper.\n        Should you consider the application in this point of view, I submit the following draught of a message to the Senate for the attainment of its object. With the utmost respect, I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most ob. & hble St\n          James McHenrySecy of war", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0079-0001", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 5 May 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n          The letter of which the inclosed is a copy contains such extraordinary matter that I could not hesitate to send it to you. The writer is Mr G\u2014\u2014M\u2014\u2014. I trust the information it conveys cannot be true; yet in these wild times every thing is possible: Your official information may serve as a comment. very respectfully & affectly I have the honor to be Sir Yr Obed. Ser.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0079-0002", "content": "Title: Enclosure: Gouverneur Morris to Alexander Hamilton, 4 March 1796\nFrom: Morris, Gouverneur\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n            My Dear Hamilton\n          I have just now written to the President to communicate some Intelligence lately received from Paris. This I have done in abstract but my correspondent has written to me as follows \u201cThe Government here are highly displeased with ours. You may easily guess the Reason. It is come to a very serious pitch. A fleet is to be sent to our shore with a new minister. A definitive answer must be given in 15 days. The Government are to declare to us within a few days that our Treaty with them is annulled. This will put Mr Monroe in a cruel Dilemma\u2014He is already much displeased and a war will probably be the consequence. The British will be glad of this. Perhaps we may have here a Revolution from\nthe Industry of the Jacobins. The Finances are worse than ever. They cannot stand much longer.\u201d This letter is dated in Paris the 15th of last month. You may be sure by my communicating it to you that I have confidence in the source.\n          I have barely stated to the President the intention as to a new Minister. To you I will declare my conviction that this Government cannot stand whether the Monarchy be restored or not. The adherents to the Royal Cause grow dayly more numerous. If I knew decidedly the steps to be taken in aid of them I could tell you almost with certainty whether they would be successful. For the state of that Country now presents sufficient data on which to reason soundly. I need not say to you that if the French Rulers persist in the measures which are abovementioned America will probably be obliged to take part in the War. On a former occasion when they talked somewhat highly, I told them that they would certainly force us into the contest but as certainly it would be against them, let the predilections in their favour be ever so great, because it would be madness in us to risk our Commerce against the Navy of the world. That to join them would do them no good and would do us much evil. That time they believed me. What representations Mr Monroe may make, I cannot pretend to divine & much less the effect of them. Supposing however that you should be driven to make this election you will naturally weigh not only the naval force but also the financial resources of the opposed powers. The noisy folks with you will undoubtedly be loud on our obligations to France and on the long list of our grievances from England. As to the former I think we should always seek to perform acts of kindness towards those who at the bidding of their Prince stept forward to fight our battles. But would it be kind to support that power which now tyrannizes over France and reduces her inhabitants to unheard of misery? Would it be grateful to mix with\u2014much less to league with those whose hands are yet red with the blood of him who was our real protector? Would it be decent? As to the conduct of Britain towards us, although I see as clearly as others the grounds which we have to complain and can readily account for the resentments which have been excited, yet I give due weight to the causes by which that conduct was instigated\u2014And while in some cases I find it unjustifiable, I cannot consider it as in all cases inexcusable. Provided therefore that our honor\nbe saved, I am so far from thinking that the injuries we have endured should become the source of inextinguishable hatred and perpetual war that I would seek in future good offices the fair motive for consigning them to oblivion.\n          I have not my Dear Hamilton any such view of our present political machinery as to judge what may be the effect of lofty menace. It is possible after all that the demand may turn on a single pivot that we shall no longer pretend to claim an exemption from seizure for those goods of an enemy which may be found in our ships. If so the case is plain and easy. We slide back to the law of Nations which it is our interest to preserve unimpeached. Probably we shall be called upon for our guarantee of St Domingo & here many curious questions will arise\u2014in the course of which we shall see perhaps some very strange things. It appears certain to me that the French Directory would not risk high language to us, if they had not received previous assurances that the people would force our Government to sacrifice the national interest. Those assurances were I presume given and the present plan proposed while victory seemed yet bound to the French standards, and while you received official assurances of the prosperous state of their internal affairs. The scene is now not only changed but almost reversed, & I presume that the language if not the conduct of certain persons will experience a similar change. Adieu &c.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0080", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Robert Lewis, 5 May 1796\nFrom: Lewis, Robert\nTo: Washington, George\n          Hond Uncle,\n          Fredericksburg [Va.] May 5th 1796\n        Your last letter dated the 17th ultimo, I have this instant received, and as I shall leave town this afternoon, will leave this in the post office for the next mail. My business here was to have ejectments issued against those persons who are in possession of the Land on Accoceek which you were so good as to say I might have, provided it cou\u2019d be come at. All the previous and necessary business has been arranged in order that it might come on against the next District Court for trial\u2014But greatly to my mortification and disappointment, after a good deal of trouble and some little expence; my Counsellers informed me that the Land which you had given me and which you conceived to be your right as Heir at Law to my Grandmothers Estate becomes by the Law of Descents the joint property of yourself and Brothers Heirs\u2014As the property wou\u2019d be divided and sub-divided into so many different parts provided it cou\u2019d be obtained, I have thought proper to relinquish all claim\u2014It being besides a bad cause\u2014or at least a doubtfull one. The only point which gave me any hopes, wou\u2019d have been the testimoney of several very old inhabitants who live in the neighbourhood\u2014Also possession of a small part by a Mr Taylor, who was a tenant to my Grandmother, and who has been for several years past distressed by the party in possession for rent which he never wou\u2019d pay without being forced.\n        I am sorry to inform you of the death of Mrs Haney\u2014She died on Friday last in extreme pain, and with the most rapid consumption, I believe, that ever was known; having only complained of symptoms of that disorder about two months\npast\u2014She was truly a religious good Woman and has left a poor unhappy Orphan to deplore her loss\u2014As to Virtue and exemplary conduct the Daughter of Mrs Haney is surpassed by none\u2014And I am really sorry that the avocations of my family will not admit of constant employment for her\u2014Her Mother recommended her to my care and put her under my auspices on her dieing bed, provided you did not point out some other mode more to her advantage\u2014My House is small and it will certainly be attended with some inconvenience, and if no place can be provided for her where she can derive some advantage as well in improvment as profit, she\u2019s perfectly welcome to her board\u2014Mrs Lewis has taken considerable trouble to teach her reading\u2014writing, and useful needle work, in which she is very defective. She wants neither capacity or inclination to learn. I have taken the liberty & without your consent to purchase her some few articles which she was much in want of and cou\u2019d not well be delayed to keep up a decent appearance\u2014I have never furnished her with any thing since her coming to my Plantation except what you directed in the first instance; and have always impressed upon her mind in the strongest terms what you requested, in regard to supporting herself\u2014She has made every exertion, I believe, in order to do it, but to no effect\u2014The people of this neighbourhood are uncommonly industrious and do every thing within themselves; of course there is little opportunity of doing much in the way of support, altho\u2019 every little, takes off some of the expence. She wou\u2019d make an extraordinary housekeeper, if a place in some genteel family cou\u2019d be procured\u2014Of this, you will be the best judge.\n        My Mother is at present in Culpepper with my sister Carter who is just delivered of a son\u2014They are both very well I am informed\u2014Present my affectionate regards to my Aunt and believe me your much obliged and affectionate Nephew\n          Robt Lewis", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0081", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 5 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate\n          Gentlemen of the Senate,\n          United States May 5. 1796\n        I lay before you, for your consideration and advice, an explanatory article proposed to be added to the treaty of Amity Commerce and Navigation between the United States and Great Britain; together with a copy of the full power to the Secretary of State to negotiate the same.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0082", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Tobias Lear, 6 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lear, Tobias\n          Philadelphia 6th May 1796\n        This letter will be put into your hands by Mr Volney\u2014who proposes to visit the Federal City. If you are not acquainted with him personally, I am sure you must have a knowledge of his character\u2014his travels & works; I therefore recommend him to your civilities while he remains in the Federal City. I am always and sincerely Yours\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0083", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Pinckney, 7 May 1796\nFrom: Pinckney, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n          London [England] 7th May 1796\n        Your several favors of the 20th & 20th of February & 5th of March were delivered to me a few days ago by the Captain of the Ship Favorite; the letters which accompanied them have been forwarded in the manner you pointed out; & the printed notification shall be used in conformity to your desire.\n        Be pleased, Sir to receive my best acknowledgements for the very friendly mode in which you communicate the acceptation of the Spanish Treaty\u2014I derive no small part of the satisfaction I feel on this event from the consideration that it may have had a tendency to diminish rather than to increase the unpleasant circumstances which have attended the exercise of some of your official duties. History has unfortunately so many examples of the rarest merit & most eminent services ill requited, that I was not greatly surprized by the unmerited obloquy with which several of our Gazettes for some time past have teemed: but I confess that though I was not astonished, I was much mortified because my partiality for my Countrymen had induced me to augur better both of their discernment & gratitude: I still however cherish the hope that these disgraceful productions have proceeded from a party scarcely more significant for their numbers, than eminent for their candor, liberality, or patriotism.\n        I will not fail, whenever a fit opportunity shall offer, to proceed to the full extent of what you have authorized with respect to the Marquis la Fayette\u2014at the present moment I am in expectation of an unofficial answer from Lord Grenville to an application I lately made with the hope of interesting this administration in behalf of our friend: prior communications to the department of State have informed you of my former advances of this nature\u2014& I have proposed this also unofficially & as from myself; assuring the Minister however at the same time that from my knowledge of all circumstances I was certain it would be a measure of a conciliatory and beneficial tendency\u2014Lord Grenville stated that he could not of course give an official answer, but that he would take it into consideration. this is a more favorable answer than I have hitherto received on this subject. I expected to have met his Lordship yesterday, when I hoped to obtain the result of his consideration, but the conference was postponed.\nI consider the interference of this Government, with whom we may be supposed to have some influence, as the most probable means of effecting the purpose we desire; but in case of the failure of this attempt whatever I can suggest as the dictate of justice, propriety, liberality & true policy, supported by your personal influence, shall be detailed to the Imperial Envoy. By the latest accounts the confinement of the Marquis continues to be rigorous though the Emperors Minister assures me that he is extremely well treated\u2014his wife & daughters have been permitted to reside with him & as I understand are equally prisoners with himself.\n        Accept, dear Sir, my best thanks for your kind compliance with my request to retire\u2014I shall in consequence prepare for my return home in the summer, & shall carry with me to my retreat the sentiments of affectionate regard & attachment you have impressed on the mind of Your much obliged & respectful servant\n          Thomas Pinckney", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0086", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Charles Lee, 8 May 1796\nFrom: Lee, Charles\nTo: Washington, George\n          Philadelphia 8th may 1796\n        I have been reflecting on the train of measures to be pursued respecting the western posts which yesterday seemed to meet your approbation. The subject was new to me then, and therefore I hope you will excuse me for presenting to your better judgment the result of mine on the letter proposed to be written to Lord Dorchester. That part of it which is to express an acquiescence on your part in the detention of the posts after the first day of june next and indeed a desire that they should remain in the possession of the british for safe custody until the troops of the United States shall arrive to receive them appears objectionable on two grounds.\n        1st It is not absolutely necessary, and will imply a concession that the punctual delivery of the posts does not take place, in consequence of delays, neglects or impediments of some kind on the part of the United States or of some department in our government. In itself this proposition may be questioned; but admitting it to be true; I do not perceive the propriety in the present stage of the business of the president\u2019s doing any act or using any words which may be interpreted into an acknowledgement, on our part, that the non-delivery of the posts according to stipulation is to be attributed to ourselves. If certain occurrences have produced an impossibi[li]ty on our part to take possession on or before the first of June next; and also a necessity on the part of the british to continue to hold the posts after that period, it will be safest for you to suffer, that impossibi[li]ty and that necessity, to stand upon their own circumstances as they have already happened.\n        2dly It may be questioned whether the President can be justified in consenting that an armed force of a foreign nation shall occupy a post in the territories of the United States after the time appointed for the evacuation by a treaty solemnly concluded between the two nations. It is my opinion that such an act\ncannot be justified under the constitution. If the evacuation is not punctually made in consequence of unavoi[d]able causes or of absolute necessity, it may be excusable on that account and must be submitted to: but this is very different from consenting or desiring that the evacuation should be postponed beyond the day stipulated.\n        A treaty duly made is obligatory as a law; the execution of the latter cannot be denied or delayed by the president except in particular instances by pardon &c. of offences, so also he cannot dispense with the obligations of a treaty.\n        But even supposing to request the british governor to hold the posts and take care of them till the arrival of our troops though subsequent to the first day of next june could be justified as a lawful act, yet it seems to be a condescencion on the part of the United states towards the british nation, that will be unpleasing to many, and complained of by some.\n        Viewing this matter in a more important light than the other gentlemen seemed to have contemplated it, as it may affect yourself, I could not refrain from communicating my sentiments in writing for your more mature consideration. With the most perfect esteem and Respect I remain your most obed. hbl. sert\n          Charles Lee", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0087", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 8 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: McHenry, James\n            Sunday Afternoon 8th May 1796\n        The enclosed letter presents a serious\u2014perhaps a just view of the subject which has been under consideration\u2014and as I wish in every thing, particularly in matters of foreign relation, to conduct with caution; I request that your letter to the Govr General of Canada; the Instructions to Major Lewis; and all your arrangements respecting the reception of the Posts may accord with the ideas contained therein.\n        Let the March of the Troops who are to take possession of the Posts be facilitated as much as possible; and let every measure necessary thereto for supplying them on their March, and when there, be concerted without delay. I am, as always Yours\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0089", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 8 May 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n        Letter not found: from William Pearce, 8 May 1796. GW wrote Pearce on 15 May: \u201cYour letter of the 8th, with the Reports, are at hand.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0091", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 9 May 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        I have the honour to submit for your inspection a draught of a letter to Lord Dorchester, made out agreeably to the idea presented in the attorney generals letter, which corresponds with the second draught I had the pleasure of reading to you on saturday, and yesterday morning. I beleive it is the safest ground to move upon, and the most correctly constitutional. I have shewn it to Mr Lee & Mr Woolcot who approve of it.\n        If you should be of opinion that any thing like the inclosed private instruction to Capn Lewis might be useful, I shall correct it and have it ready with the other letters.\n        I expect the Senate to concur in the additional article to the British treaty to-day, and if you advise it, will dispach Capn Lewis to-morrow.\n        Mr Murray was out of town yesterday, but is expected to return this morning. I shall see him of course. With the sincerest respect I have the honour to be Sir Your most ob. st\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0092", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 9 May 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State May 9. 1796.\n        The Secretary of State respectfully lays before the President a letter of March 29th from Governor Blount with the address to him from the General Assembly of Tennessee, which were handed to the Secretary this day by Mr Cocke, a Senator Elect from that government. When the Secretary told Mr Cocke that the letter with its inclosure should be laid before the President, Mr Cocke expressed earnestly his desire that they should also be officially communicated to the Senate; of which the Secretary did not see the necessity, but begs leave to submit to \u27e8the\u27e9 President\u2019s decision.\n        The Governor of that territory being no longer an officer of the United States, the office of superintendent of Indian Affairs will of course cease to be united with that of Governor, according to the act of Congress of the 26th of May 1790; and now be conferred on whomsoever the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate, shall be pleased to appoint.\n          Timothy Pickering.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0093", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 9 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate\n          Gentlemen of the Senate\n          United States 9. May 1796\n        I nominate James McDowell to be Inspector of the Revenue for the sixth survey in the District of virginia vice James Brackenridge resigned.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0094", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., 10 May 1796\nFrom: Dandridge, Bartholomew Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n          Green briar Court house [Va.] May 10 1796\n        My last to you was I believe dated at Shippensburg in Pennsylvania. on the morng succeeding its date, I bent my course towards Virga & crossing the Potomac at Wmsport I passed through Winchester, & along up the Shenandoah, & thro Orange County to Charlottsville & from thence to staunton, in the neighbourhood of which I rested a few days. From Staunton I departed with the intention of visiting the country on & at the mouth of\nthe Kanhawa; but on my arrival here I found this part of the country so pleasant & healthful that I have resolved to tarry in it for some weeks, & for that purpose have taken up my abode at a respectable farmer\u2019s about 12 miles from this place towards the Ohio. I have already experienced the good effects of a change of scenee & objects wch had become necessary to me, & hope, if I can have it in my power to spend the summer on this side the ridge, to have my health & tranquility establishe\u27e8d.\u27e9 It is still my intention, (if agreeable to you & if you have not provided a person who can answer your purposes better) to return to your service in the fall previous to the meetg of the next Congress. If however, you should not think proper to permit this, I will thank you to let me know it as soon as possible, as in that case I shall be obliged to get into some other business if I can. You may obtain many who are in some respects more capable of doing your business; but I can truly say you will not fin\u27e8d\u27e9 one who will be more faithful to your interest, according to my ability. Perhaps you may wish to make use of me in the disposal of your Western Lands. This employment I should prefer far before that which you have been pleased heretofore to honor me with. Many have made inquiries of me respecting it\u2014& all seem to agree in the opinion that it would be greatly favorable to your interest to divide it into small tracts from 2 to 500 acres. I have no doubt if that was done but that from 6 to 8 Dollars per acre might be had for it, accordg to quality & situation. New settlers are daily going to the point & above that place on the Ohio. You will I am persuaded do me the favor to let me hear from [you] as early as you can upon the above subjects, that in case you do not wish to give me any place in your service, I may endeavour to obtain one some where or other. In the last event I must beg of you to enclose me a certificate of the time I lived with you & of my conduct during that time. As I am sure you will do this with strict justice, it will be serviceable to me. a mail arrives at this place only once a fortnight, I cannot therefore expect to hear from you in less than 4 weeks. Be pleased to present my affectionate respects to my Aunt, remember me to Washington, & to accept yourself my prayers for your happiness & prosperity. With sincere esteem & the truest attachment I have the honor to be my dr sir, Yr very h\u2019ble servt\n          B. Dandridge\n          P.S. please to direct to me, to the care of Mr Chas Arbuckle merchant at Lewisburgh, alias G.B. Ct house.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0099", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 12 May 1796\nFrom: Peters, Richard\nTo: Washington, George\n          I have so long waited for the Answers to a Number of Queries, I proposed to several of our most intelligent Farmers, on the subject of Manures, & particularly the Gypsum; & have been so much disappointed in not receiving the requisite Information, that I cannot longer trespass on your Patience, by detaining Sr J. Sinclair\u2019s Communications which I now return to you. Many of the Subjects are too amply discussed, to need any Additions. If any were necessary, American Farmers have made too little Progress in their Art, to teach those of Europe. Our Stercouries are in a rude state; and but few take any pains to improve them. Composts are rare. Native Manures, except Lime, Plaister & River Mud, little sought after. Perhaps I should add that Oyster Shells & Salt Sedge or Grass, are much used, as Manures, on our Sea Coasts. In the Neighborhood of Cities and Towns, the Manures produced in them are all used, some well applied, but generally without much Art or Management. Altho\u2019 our Agriculture on our old Lands is much improved, it is yet in its Infancy. There is so much fresh Land to be had, that the worn Lands are frequently abandoned to what is called rest, or left in the hands of those who manage them (with however many Exceptions) but indifferently. The only Subject on which I could reasonably hope to afford any useful Information, was that of Plaister of Paris. For this Purpose I proposed the Queries I enclose to sundry of our Farmers, who appear to be averse from putting their Thoughts on Paper. I also send you the Answers of a Mr West (Brother to the celebrated Painter of that Name) who has effected\nwonderful Changes in his Farm, by Means of this Manure chiefly. His Farm is now a Garden tho\u2019 it was a miserable sterile Waste. He is not singular in the successful Use of Plaister. It is now becoming very general, and is always productive of beneficial Effects, in greater or less degrees. Many of our Farmers who are within Reach of the Sea Ports, where they can purchase Plaister, are rapidly getting rich, by means of this Manure.\n          I must for the present, content myself with sending you the enclosed Answers to the Queries on this Subject. At a future Day, if I find any thing worthy of troubling you with, I will send any further Communications I receive, or Thoughts which are suggested from Conversations with our Farmers or my own Reflections. I am with sincere & respectful Esteem Your Obedt Servt\n            Richard Peters\n          I wish it were possible to get one or two Copies of the Surveys and Reports made to the Board of Agriculture of G. Britain. I want one for our Agricultural Society and one for myself. If they were to be purchased I would buy them. If you think it will not be laying yourself under Obligations or involving yourself in trouble I will be obliged to you to desire Sr J.S. to send one or two Copies. If any Expence attends it I will cheerfully pay it.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0100-0001", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 12 May 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n            Department of State May 12. 1796.\n          As far as I have been able, I have stated in the inclosed paper the objects which I conceived you wished to consider, as deducible from various letters from our ministers and consuls abroad. There are others of a subordinate nature, or which respect situations which do not demand instant decision; but which will be resumed & pursued as soon as I find relief from the present anguish of my heart.\n            T. Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0100-0002", "content": "Title: Enclosure: Report on Foreign Affairs, 12 May 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: \n              Wednesday May 12. 1796. \u00bd past three o\u2019clock\n          Mr Pinckney having desired to relinquish his mission and return to America, there will be a vacancy for a minister at London. Mr King has intimated that it would be agreeable to him to succeed Mr Pinckney. At all events, without fixing on the time, Mr King contemplates a relinquishment of his seat in the Senate.\nA minister of his abilities & experience & law-knowledge would seem peculiarly desirable at this time for the mission to London. For independent of the general interests of the Union respecting further negociations, the important claims of the citizens for spoliations on their commerce may derive very material support from his interposition with the British ministers, and our commissioners much useful information & advice.\n          Mr Short having decided on resigning his mission to Madrid, and desired letters of recall, for which he waits at Paris, a vacancy presents at Madrid.\n          Mr Short says that the allowance of 4500 dollars, the salary to a minister resident, is quite inadequate to the expences of a residence at the Spanish Court. He also represents it as a matter of peculiar importance at that Court that a minister should hold an elevated grade. And as the Spanish minister recently appointed to the U. States, has the rank of minister plenipotentiary, this would seem to enforce the other reasons for giving the like grade to the new minister to go from the United States to that court. Mr Wm Smith of South-Carolina having manifested a desire to be employed in the diplomatic line, he appears extremely well adapted to the service at the court of Spain. A familiar knowledge of the French language, which Mr Smith possesses, would render his communications with that court perfectly easy.\n          Should the President finally resolve on a change of the minister at Paris, perhaps no man could be found better qualified, there to represent & support the interests of the U. States and its citizens (the latter as well as the former are of great magnitude) than Mr J. Quincy Adams.\n            The gentleman whom Mr FitzSimons consulted as a candidate for the consulate at Algiers, seems to have had no objection to the service, but on the score of compensation, which is limited by law to 2000 dollars a year. He speaks and writes French, Spanish & Italian, which would be extremely useful in that employment: but the final enquiry presents some circumstances less propitious\u2014a want of enterprise\u2014and his close connections with the editor of the Aurora.\n            The result of my reflections on this subject is, that as Mr Barlow has accepted a temporary appointment under the orders of Colo. Monroe & Colo. Humphreys, he should be continued.\nHe is a citizen of France, as well as of the U. States; and going thither under the patronage of the French Government, he may be very useful, if he shall have arrived in time, to prevent the fatal mischief so much apprehended by a delay in the pecuniary arrangements to fulfil the agreement entered into by Mr Donaldson. Should Mr Barlow be named to the Senate, it is doubtful whether he woud be approved: his new religious character & his politics are obnoxious to leading men in the majority of that body. Before a permanent Consul, possessing the requisite knowledge, just political principles, the integrity and the abilities demanded for the maintenance of the interests of the U. States at Algiers, can be appointed, it will probably be necessary for Congress to provide a more ample salary. The discretionary powers of our consul there must be very extensive in a matter the most liable to abuse\u2014the disbursement of large sums of money for which no vouchers can be obtained, and for which it will often be necessary to issue promptly, without waiting particular orders from Government. Probably four or five thousand dollars a year (or the salary of a minister resident) would alone tempt a fit character to accept the office: unless considerable commercial advantages could be connected with it; of which Mr FitzSimons, who has been so good as [to] make enquiry, has yet obtained no satisfactory information.\n            The appropriation bill for Barbary Affairs has passed the House: as soon as it becomes a law the measures requisite to fulfil the engagements for Algiers may be begun.\n            At my request, Mr FitzSimons has procured a British Mediterranean Pass, to serve as an exemplar in forming our own; which will serve I suppose for all the Barbary Powers including Morocco, whose emperor, Mr Simpson says, desires our vessels to be so furnished, according to the usage of the European powers.\n            It will be desirable to have a consul for that Kingdom who is acquainted with the customs of the country. Such an one presents in the person of Mr Simpson, who is now our consul at Gibraltar. He is willing to accept the Consulate for Morocco, to reside at Tangier, to which place he says the French have removed their consulate, to avoid the great expences of a residence near the Court. Mr Cabot is personally acquainted with Mr Simpson, and knows him to be a man of worth. His negociation of the\nrecognition of our treaty with Morocco seems to have been very well & very economically conducted. Should a vacancy be thus occasioned at Gibraltar, and no fit candidate immediately present, Mr Simpson could be desired to employ an agent for the service of the Gibraltar Consulate until a regular appointment could be made\u2014in the same manner as he must have done while he was last summer and autumn employed at Morocco.\n            He says a present must accompany the annunciation of the Consul, and he has given a detail of the articles most acceptable, consisting of military stores.\n            He says also that a house must be built at Tangier for the American Consul, as is done by the European powers. But we know not the fashion or size suitable for the purpose. The frame and lumber must be sent from America. I have consulted Mr FitzSimons on the subject, who thinks the building were better suspended, to obtain farther information.\n            Mr Simpson also represents that occasional presents will be indispensable: but that some restrictions will be necessary. These will come into view in forming the instructions for the Consul when appointed.\n            John S. M. Matthieu, native of that place, is handsomely recommended for consul there. His own letter of the 14th of January manifests a very competent knowledge of the English tongue. Mr Vanuxem, who has written two letters in his favour, is a French merchant of Philadelphia, who many years since married in New Jersey, and has been carrying on business extensively, & enjoys I believe the reputation of an honest man. His description of the reputation Mr Matthieu acquired at St Domingo corresponds with that given by the French letter inclosed in Mr Bingham\u2019s.\n            Francis Coffyn, son of the late Consul his father, solicits the appointment of Consul for Dunkirk. He is now acting as such under Colo. Monroe\u2019s sanction. He acted as Chancellor in the consulate for his father, and for some time conducted the whole business\u2014during his father\u2019s ill health.\n            Belfast, Ireland\n            James Holmes, recommended for consul at Belfast, by his fellow citizens, and by General Walter Stewart.\n            Alexander Montgomery solicits the same office for himself or his brother Hugh. The letter is addressed to Mr Randolph, to whom it seems the writer was personally known during nine years residence at Richmond.\n            There are two applications; neither appears on enquiry to be very satisfactory. I expect information in a day or two of a third; when the whole will be laid before the President.\n            Complaints have been made by Colo. Monroe against the present Consul, John Parrish, as an agent for the British, and adverse to France: a particular complaint was made for his engaging transports to convey the Emigrants to Great Britain.\n            I had somehow understood that Mr Parish was a merchant of respectability, & enquired of his character. Mr Robert Morris informs me, that he is a merchant of great wealth and of the most fair & honorable reputation: that in the beginning of our revolution he was the correspondent of the Secret Committee of Congress; and before we had any funds, procured for the U. States articles of essential importance, to the amount of sixty thousand pounds sterling, which most opportunely arrived: that he is now the Chief correspondent of the American Merchants trading to Hamburg; and now has in consequence an agent or partner in this city, to whom Mr Morris referred me for information \u201cdeserving attention & credit in what he might say regarding Mr Parrish.\u201d This gentleman says the transporting of the emigrants was thus. A considerable number of American Vessels (twenty or thirty) at Hamburg, wanted employment, or to be sold. Mr Parrish informed them of the call for vessels to transport the emigrants. Many readily desired to sell. The business was left with a Clerk of Mr Parrish\u2019s. The sales were very advantageous to the American owners. Some of the American masters refused the employment. There was nothing in it repugnant to our treaty with France; which on the contrary provides for the very case\u2014declaring that the enemy soldiers may be taken out & made prisoners\u2014but the vessel to go free.\n            Mr Parrish is not the English Consul at Hamburg. He does nothing for the British but as a private merchant whose ability integrity & respectability recommend him to the merchants of that nation.\n            These are all the cases which seem to me in a situation necessary to be immediately decided upon. It has not been possible for me yet to read the entire correspondence of all our ministers. There are some regulations respecting consuls which when digested it might be proper to lay before the legislature at the next session. Whatever remains to be brought into the view of the President, must be the result of further examination.\n            The distressed situation of my family obliges me to go to them immediately.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0102", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 13 May 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        The Secry of the Treasury has mentioned to me this morning the substance of a communication, which he said he had imparted to you some time since. It respects certain instructions given by Mr Adet to persons who are on their road to the Western Country which affect and may bring into danger the peace and safety of the U.S.\n        I inclose you papers containing matter apparently connected with this subject; that of the 24 was sent me, perhaps a week ago, by Mr Pickering; those tied together, I had to-day from General Wayne.\n        When I conjoin with these circumstances, some of a private and others of a public nature, all tending to the same issue, there is too much room for apprehending a serious crisis to be approaching, which it may be proper to have the means to dissipate.\n        I have said to Mr Woolcot, that I thought such instructions as he mentioned, would justify the President to direct the persons employed to execute them to be seized. If this can be done with propriety, and the instructions be as represented, and can be obtained, their publication, at a fit moment, might be attended with the happiest consequences.\n        All these things together have made such an impression on my mind that I cannot help mentioning it to you for your own reflexions.\n        Col. Rochfontaine has changed his request and now prefers a court of Enquiry. I have of course changed the order I had given to General Wayne to accord with his request. With the sincerest respect I am Sir your most ob. st\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0105", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 14 May 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n          Treasury Department May 14th 1796.\n        The Secretary of the Treasury has the honour most respectfully to submit to the President of the United States, certain documents in respect to Sylvanus Walker, Inspector of the revenue for the third survey of the District of South Carolina; by which it appears,\n        1st. That the said Inspector wants the capacity so necessary to insure a due and correct discharge of the duties attached to his office.\n        2d. That the said Inspector has subjected the United States\nto considerable loss by omitting to enforce the execution of the Laws for creating internal Revenue.\n        3d. That the said Inspector has neglected to render his accounts at the time and in the mode prescribed, although frequently required so to do by the Supervisor of the District of So. Carolina.\n        For all which reasons, the Secretary of the Treasury is of opinion that the public Interest indispensably requires, that the said Inspector be displaced from office.\n        If the President should see cause to remove Sylvanus Walker from the office he now holds, the Secretary would beg leave to mention William Benson as his successor; he being recommended as a person well qualified to discharge the duties of Inspector, by three of the Representatives of South Carolina, whose letter to the Commissioner of the revenue on that subject accompanies the other documents. All which is most respectfully submitted to the Consideration of the President of the United States.\n          Oliv: Wolcott JrSecy of the Treasy", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0106", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Anne Louise DuBarry, 15 May 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: DuBarry, Anne Louise\n        Letter not found: to Anne Louise DuBarry, 15 May 1796. In DuBarry\u2019s letter to GW of 28 July, she referred to \u201cthe Letter you honourd me with dated the 15th of may\u201d (see GW to George Lewis, 28 April, n.2).", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0107", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Francis II (Holy Roman Emperor), 15 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Francis II (Holy Roman Emperor)\n          To the Emperor of Germany.\n          Philadelphia 15th May 1796\n        It will readily occur to your Majesty, that occasions may sometimes exist, on which official considerations would constrain the Chief of a Nation to be silent and passive, in relation even to objects which affect his sensibility, and claim his interposition, as a man. Finding myself precisely in this situation at present, I take the liberty of writing this private letter to Your Majesty; being persuaded that my motives, will also be my apology for it.\n        In common with the People of this Country, I retain a strong and cordial sense of the Services rendered to them by the Marquis De la Fayette; and my friendship for him has been constant and sincere. It is natural therefore, that I should sympathize with him and his family in their misfortunes, and endeavor to mitigate the calamities wch they experience; among which his present confinement is not the least distressing.\n        I forbear to enlarge on this delicate subject\u2014Permit me only to submit to your Majesty\u2019s consideration, whether his long Imprisonment\u2014and the confiscation of his Estate\u2014and the Indigence & dispersion of his family\u2014and the painful anxieties incident to all these circumstances, do not form an assemblage of sufferings, which recommend him to the mediation of Humanity? Allow me Sir! on this occasion to be its organ; and to entreat that he may be permitted to come to this country, on such conditions and under such restrictions, as your Majesty may think it expedient to prescribe.\n        As it is a maxim with me not to ask, what under similar circumstances I would not grant, Your Majesty will do me the justice to\nbelieve, that this request appears to me to corrispond with those great principles of Magnanimity & wisdom, which form the basis of sound policy and durable glory. May the Almighty and merciful Sovereign of the Universe keep Your Majesty under his Protection and guidance.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0111", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 17 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate\n          Gentlemen of the Senate.\n          United States 17th May 1796\n        An unexpected circumstance having obliged Jeremiah Wadsworth, to decline his appointment of Commissioner to hold a treaty with the Cohnawaga Indians, stiling themselves the Seven Nations of Canada; I now nominate Abraham Ogden Commissioner to hold the said Treaty.\n        It having become necessary to remove Sylvanus Walker, Inspector of the Revenue for the third Survey in the district of South Carolina, I also nominate William Benson to succeed the said Sylvanus Walker in said Office.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0112", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Gill, 18 May 1796\nFrom: Gill, John\nTo: Washington, George\n          Alexandria [Va.] 18th may 1796\n        The Deed which I recd from you for the Tract of Land on Difficult, was put into the hands of my Clerk to get recorded, & by some means or other it has been mislaid & on examination I find has not been recorded\u2014I am therefore at a loss to know the day on which the rent becomes due, & my wish being to pay it punctually I am under the necessity of requesting you to look at the Counterpart which you have & to inform me\u2014I am sorry to give you this Trouble, but the neglect which has happened cannot now be remedied any other way\u2014When you come to Virginia which I understand will be soon, I shall be obliged by your permitting Mr Craik to bring the Counterpart with him that I may have it copied, & executed again in order to have it recorded\u2014With much respect I am Sir Yr mo. obed. servt\n          John Gill", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0113", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 18 May 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State May 18. 1796.\n        The Secretary of State respectfully lays before the President of the United States a list of names for public offices, in the form of a message to the Senate. The Secretary expected to have added to the list the name of a consul for Bremen: but his doubts as to the person among the candidates entitled to a preference not having been otherwise resolved, he had recourse to Mr R. Morris, who possessed information concerning one of them, & from circumstances could probably obtain immediately information of the others, which he promised to communicate, & which the Secretary expects to receive to-day.\n          Timothy Pickering\n          P.S. George Knox is recommended for Consul at Kingston upon Hull by so many respectable merchants of New-York, as to leave no room to doubt of his fitness, or of the utility of the appointment.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0115", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 19 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate\n          Gentlemen of the Senate,\n          United States 19th May 1796.\n        I nominate\n        Rufus King, of New York, to be the minister Plenipotentiary of the United States at the Court of Great Britain, in the room of Thomas Pinckney, who desires to be recalled.\n        David Humphreys, of Connecticut, to be the minister Plenipotentiary of the United States at the Court of Spain; William Short, the Resident Minister to that Court having desired to be recalled.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0116", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 19 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate\n          Gentlemen of the Senate,\n          United States May 19th 1796.\n        I nominate\n        James Simpson, at present Consul of the United States at Gibraltar, to be their consul for the Kingdom of Morocco\n        John S. M. Matthieu, to be their Consul at the City of Naples.\n        Francis Coffyn, to be their Consul at Dunkirk\n        James Holmes, to be their Consul at Belfast in the Kingdom of Ireland.\n        George Knox, to be their Consul at Kingston upon Hull in England.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0117", "content": "Title: Statement of Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 19 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: \n          Philadelphia May 19th 1796\n        In the latter part of March last, a Gentleman in whose honour & veracity I have entire confidence called upon me at my Office and informed me; that Mr Collot & Mr Varin, with another Frenchman whose name he did not know, were shortly to proceed on a tour through the western parts of the United States; that they were to visit the western parts of Pensylvania, the north western territory, Kentucky, & the South western territory, & that they were to be furnished with Maps & drafts of those Countries; that they were instructed by Mr Adet the French Minister, to observe the posts of the United States on the lakes & elsewhere, & to note all places possessing remarkable natural advantages either for defence or Commerce, that they were to proceed down the Mississipi to New Orleans, & were there in concert with Officers of the Spanish Government to ascertain the proper place for a Depot; that in their travels they were to ascertain & note the names of the persons of most influence in every town & Village, & were to avail themselves of opportunities of observing the temper of the Country in respect to a political connection with France; that they were to cherish sentiments favourable to such a connection by observing, that the interests of the eastern & western parts of the United States were in collision; that the period was not distant when a separation must take place & that the range\nof Mountains on this side the Ohio, was the natural boundary of the new Government & that in the event of a separation, the western people ought to look to France as their natural Ally and Protector.\n        The Frenchmen before mentioned were moreover instructed to use all means in their power, to promote the election of Mr Jefferson as President of the United States.\n        The gentleman who gave me the information before related said, that I might rest satisfied with its truth, as he had seen the instructions in writing from Mr Adet the French Minister; he moreover said, that the expences of the mission to the western Country were to be born by the French Government.\n        It is not to be understood that what is herein said of the Instructions, is literally exact, as the gentleman relied on his memory; he said however, that he had seen & read the Instructions but two days before he informed me of their purport as before stated.\n        I communicated the information immediately to the President, with the name of the Gentleman from whom I received it & took measures for observing the conduct of the Frenchmen, particularly Collot, & am well assured that they left Philadelphia for the westward about the latter part of April\u2014I have reason to believe that they carried Letters from Messrs Gallatin & Findley.\n        Having conferred this day with the Gentleman who gave me the information before stated, he admitted it to be correctly related in this paper.\n          Oliver Wolcott jr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0118", "content": "Title: To George Washington from George Fitzhugh, 20 May 1796\nFrom: Fitzhugh, George\nTo: Washington, George\n          Gloucester County [Va.] 20 May 96\n        A few days ago, as I promised in my last I shoud do, I took a full view of your Estate in this place; its soil does not altogether answer my expectation, however its situation with the advantages ariseing therefrom will make it a very agreeable little Farm, and as your terms are such that I can conveniently purchase under will esteem it a singular favour you will not dispose of it to any other Person till you see me, which shall be as soon as I hear of your arrival at Mount Vernon.\n        There is very little Timber, and what there is, is chiefly of Pine; believe me I do not mention this to decry the Land for much Timber was not an object with me, but to inform there has been great damage commited by intruders. With every sentiment of esteem I am very respectfully Sir Your Ob. Hble Sert\n          George Fitzhugh", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0120", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Charles Lee, 20 May 1796\nFrom: Lee, Charles\nTo: Washington, George\n        The Attorney General having considered the information contained in Mr Wolcott\u2019s note of the 19th instant most respectfully reports.\n        That it affords reasonable ground to believe that the Republic of France has serious expectations to obtain from the King of Spain all or a part of his territories on the continent of North America, and contemplating a separation in government of the Western from the Eastern parts of the United States has commenced her plan of operations to facilitate and produce that event, and that Collot, Warin and another person are employed and paid by France and have received the instructions from Mr Adet the minister of France here, the substance of which is therein stated.\n        Though these instructions from the representation made of them appear to have been digested with much art & caution and relative to some objects not to be reprehensible, yet in their general scope and at least in two particulars they direct a conduct towards the United States that cannot be justified according to the laws of nations.\n        1st The emissaries are to cherish among the western people sentiments favorable to a political connection of that part of the United States with France by representing that the interests of the Western and eastern parts are in collision, which must soon produce a separation.\n        2dly They are to use all means in their power to promote the election of Mr Jefferson as President of the United States.\n        As to the first, it cannot be denied that an Ambassador who sets on foot dangerous projects, tending to disturb the domestic tranquility of that nation where he resides, who endeavours to excite discontents, and to foment discord, who recommends a political separation of one part of a nation from the other and a political connection of that part with his own state in all such instances commits offences, for which his recall might be demanded or for which he might be dismissed, or if the safety of the injured nation made it indispensable in extreme cases, for which he might be arrested and sent to his own country even under custody. For this doctrine reference may be made to Vattel, Book 4. Ch. 7 Sections 93 to 101\u2014See also B. 2 Ch. 4 Sec. 56.\n        The United States being a nation composed of many independent members united under one government, it is especially dangerous to their tranquility and union and consequently to their independence (for on their union rests their independence) for a foreign minister to interfere so far in their internal politicks as to endeavour to effect a dismemberment, and therefore such practices ought to be discovered checked and prevented by all just and lawful means.\n        As to the second particular, \u201cIf any intrude into the domestic affairs of another nation and attempt to influence its deliberations they do it an injury\u201d Vattel B. 1, Ch. 4 Sec. 37\u2014It is the violation of this principle that forms one of the complaints of France against Great Britain in the present day.\n        Therefore for the minister of the republic of France to endeavour by means of emissaries secretly maintained and dispersed at public expense to trouble the tranquility of the republic of America, by alienating the affections of one part from the other and endeavouring to effect a disunion, or to interfere in the election of the supreme executive officer, is contrary to every principle of honor and justice.\n        The next enquiry must be, what are the measures which the executive should now pursue respecting this subject.\n        There being a possibility and perhaps a probability of detecting and seizing the instructions to Collot, Warin and their associate in their own possession, it becomes the duty of the executive to use all lawful means to obtain them: if obtained they will furnish evidence completely satisfactory of the designs of the French Minister against whom at this time there does not seem any necessity of proceeding upon the information of Mr\nWolcott. To this end Governor St Clair should be furnished with a copy of that information signed by Mr Wolcott: So authenticated it may be presumed to obtain credit with any person acquainted with the situation and character of Mr W. who shall read it.\n        If the emissaries or either of them happen to be found within the territory northwest of the Ohio, some credible person should make an affidavit before a judge or justice of the peace in that district to the purport following viz. that he has reason to believe and does believe that [\u2003] Collot [\u2003] Warin & [\u2003] are persons sent, paid, charged and instructed by Mr Adet minister Plenipotentiary from the republic of France near the United States, to set on foot and bring about a separation of the western from the Eastern parts of the United States, and also to interfere in the ensuing election of the president of the United States by promoting the election of Thomas Jefferson to that office; & also that he believes by searching their trunks and packages they will be found possessed of such instructions or other writings evidencing that they are emissaries from the minister of France aforesaid for effecting nefarious and injurious purposes against the Union and tranquility of the United States and against the continuance of the present government of the territory northwest of the Ohio.\n        Upon an affidavit of this sort may be issued a special warrant to arrest the persons and seize the packages therein described and to bring them before a justice of the peace to be examined and dealt with according to law.\n        If after examination nothing appears against them, they are to be discharged.\n        But if any papers are found shewing any unlawful designs or employment, copies are to be taken by the justice, certified by him and kept in his care, and the originals are also to be certified by him and any other person present and sent to the Governor who is to transmit them by a safe conveyance to the president, retaining copies in his possession. If no overt acts of a criminal nature can be proved against any of them in that country, they may be dismissed, unless there be good cause to require them to give surety for their future good behaviour of which the civil magistrate must judge.\n        In all events the Governor should communicate to the President whatever shall be the result of the examination.\n        If any of them come within the reach of the military power, they may be apprehended as suspected persons and examined by orders from the Commander in chief who also will transmit the result of his enquiries to the President.\n          Charles Lee", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0122", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 20 May 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n        The Secretary of State respectfully returns the papers from Newbern, with the draught of an answer which seemed to him pertinent to the occasion.\n        Mr Smith thinks it would by no means suit Mr Izard to undertake the St Croix business. In conversing afterwards on the subject with Mr King, Mr Cabot & Mr Ames, and looking over all the States eastward of Pennsylvania, no character appeared so eligible as David Howell of Providence, Rhode-Island. He was some years a member of the old Congress\u2014has been a judge of the supreme court of Rhode Island, and is now a practising lawyer. Govr Bradford & Mr Bourne have no doubt of his readiness to accept the trust. And all agree in opinion of Mr Howells integrity, abilities, great learning & perseverance in whatever he undertakes.\n        The doubt I suggested to Mr Strong, he communicated to Mr King, who is decidedly of opinion that the Agent to manage the St Croix business must also be nominated to the Senate. The candidates who are thought best qualified are Theophilus Parsons of Newburyport, & James Sullivan, now the Atty Genl of Massachusetts.\n          T. Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0123", "content": "Title: from Gustavus Scott, 20 May 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Scott, Gustavus\nTo: \n        Letter not found: from Gustavus Scott, 20 May 1796. GW wrote Scott on 25 May: \u201cYour favor of the 20th inst: came to hand yesterday.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0125", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 20 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate\n          Gentlemen of the Senate,\n          United States May 20th 1796.\n        I nominate Oliver Bowen, of Georgia, to be Marshal of the district of Georgia in the room of Thomas Glasscock, resigned.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0126", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 21 May 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State May 21. 1796.\n        A demand is presented to me for 1868 49/100 dollars for transcripts of proceedings on American Vessels in the Vice Admiralty Court of Dominica, & other expences connected therewith; and some other smaller demands are depending. I have on hand but 1612 26/100 dollars. I therefore request the Presidents order on the Treasury Department for One Thousand Dollars, to enable me to discharge the above demands and others of like nature as they shall occur: and am very respectfully sir your most obt servant\n          Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0127", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 21 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate\n          Gentlemen of the Senate,\n          United States May 21st 1796\n        I nominate\n        Matthew Clarkson, of Pennsylvania, to be the Commissioner on the part of the United States, agreeably to the 21st article of the Treaty of Friendship, limits and navigation between them and his Catholic Majesty, to examine and decide the claims of the Citizens of the United States for losses sustained in consequence of their vessels and cargoes having been taken by the subjects of his Catholic Majesty during the late war between France and Spain.\n        Andrew Ellicott, of Pennsylvania, to be the Commissioner and\n        Thomas Freeman of the District of Columbia, to be the Surveyor, on the part of the United States, to run and mark the southern boundary of the United States, which divides their territory from the Spanish Colonies of East and West Florida; agreeably to the second and third articles of the treaty of friendship limits and navigation between the United States and his Catholic Majesty.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0128", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 22 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Commissioners for the District of Columbia\n          Gentlemen,\n          Philadelphia 22d May 1796\n        Your letters of the 13th and 14th instant have been duly received, and the Attorney General of the United States having given his opinion relatively to the Powers of Attorney; And having pronounced the proceedings to be accordant with the Act for Guaranteeing the Loan; matters have been arranged with Mr Gilmore for execution, and the Papers, agreeably to your desire, will be forwarded to Holland.\n        A duplicate of the Power of Attorney to Messrs Wilhem & Jan Willink, is necessary to guard against the delay which would result from a miscarriage of the original. In short, as the vigorous prosecution of the Works depend upon the facility with which the Loan is obtained, no risk that can be avoided ought to be left to chance: For fatal indeed would it be to the operations in the City if a disappointment, or any considerable delay should take place. And here let me add\u2014If I had been called upon for an opinion relative to this loan before arrangments were made with Mr Gilmore, I should, under my present view of the subject, have given a decided opinion against placing the whole of the sum, authorized to be borrowed in one year, upon this issue; if any part thereof could have been obtained in this country within, or not exceeding, the Provisions of the Law.\n        In all probability it will be six months before the result of the application in Holland will be known. This may, & from the peculiar state of things in that country tis not unlikely will be, unfavorable. What is to be done in that case? and what in the meantime? You have declared, yourselves, that you do not place much confidence in aids from Messrs Morris & Nicholson, & point out no other specific resources. Notwithstanding these sentiments, I am unwilling to obstruct a measure which I presume you have\nconsidered in all its relations & chances, & have therefore given facility to your plan; wishing heartily that it may be attended with success.\n        The year 1800 is approaching by hasty strides; The friends of the City are extremely anxious to see the public Works keep equal pace therewith. They are anxious too on another account\u2014namely\u2014that the Commissioners should reside in the City where the theatre of the business lies. This was, and is, my opinion. It is the principle, and was declared to be so at the time; upon which the present establishment of the Commissioners was formed; that, by being on the spot, and giving close attention to the operations, they might prevent abuses, or correct them in embryo. It is said, if this had been the case, those defective walls, which to put up, & pull down, have cost the public much time, labour & expence, would never have been a subject of reproach. For these, and other reasons which might be added, it is my decided opinion & expectation that the Commissioners do reside in the City. and the nearer they are to the public Works the better, & more desirable it will be. I wish this as well on their own account, as on that of the public; because they would have it much more in their power to scrutinize all the movements of men & measures which are under their controul, than it is possible to do at the distance of two or three miles & periodical, or occasional visits. Being on the spot, & seeing every thing that occurs, they would be better enabled to systematize the business & have it conducted with greater \u0153conomy; and finally, would insure to themselves those honors & consolations which flow from the punctual discharge of public trust.\n        I have sent your advertisement of the sale of Lotts, to the places you have requested; but I beg that it may be unequivocally understood that, I am opposed to the sale of them in large parcels, to Speculators. It might be asked, if this was to happen, and with propriety too, why give these people the profit arising between the wholesale & retail prices, when, if the same means & industry in the disposal, were used by the Commissioners, it would be saved to the public? To sell by single lots, or at most squares, on moderate terms to those who will improve them, appear most eligable to me. particular cases may arise, to render a departure from this rule necessary, but such cases must speak for themselves\u2014& the advantages to be derived from them must be evident.\n        If there are any matters which you are desirous of laying before me, let me request that they may be prepared (if a decision is not required sooner) by the time I shall pass through the City; which is as likely to happen about the middle of next month, as at any period I can name at present. My stay at Mount Vernon cannot be long & I shall have many matters of private concern to attend to while there. With great esteem & regard I am\u2014Gentn Your most Obedt\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0129", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 22 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n          Mr Pearce,\n          Philadelphia 22d May 1796.\n        Your letter of the 15th instt, enclosing the Reports of the preceeding Week, came duly to hand.\n        I am glad to hear that the weather has been Seasonable of late; but sorry indeed, to find by your letter that the grain & grass has received so little benefit from the rains which have fallen; here,\nin great abundance. And it is peculiarly unfortunate after giving so high a price for clover Seed, that it should either not have come up, or been destroyed afterwards, by the drought. Has your Corn come up well, & how does it thrive? And how does the Oats\u2014Peas\u2014Chiccory\u2014and other things which have been sown, and planted this Spring come on?\n        It is much to be regretted, and I do regret exceedingly, that the Honey locusts which have been set out, should have perished\u2014It would seem I think as if I never should get forward in my plan of hedging. With respect to the transplanting of Cedar (or any other evergreen) I am persuaded there is no other sure way of getting them to live, than by taking them up in the winter with a block of frozen earth around the Roots (and as large as it can conveniently be obtained\u2014proportioned to the size of the plant)\u2014This not only gives them their mother earth, but by its adhesion to the principal roots, it nourishes the body until the fibres from the former shoot sufficiently to secure the vegitation & thriftiness of the plant. I transplanted thousands of Pine & Cedar without getting scarcely one to live until I adopted the above method; after which, so long as it was practiced, I never lost one. Witness the pine groves by the Gardens; both of which were planted in this manner, and to the best of my recollection not one of them died: whereas, out of the first planting, just as they now are, not more than two or three of them lived.\n        I am very sorry indeed to hear of the damage which the family piece of the Marquis de la Fayette has sustained. and am unable to account for it. If the window shutters had been left open, I should have attributed it more to the sun, than to the dryness of the Air.\n        Ask Peter, if some of the Mares wch I took down with me, when I went alone to Mount Vernon in April of last year, did not go to the Jack at that time? If they did not, their foaling will be much about the time I shall be on the Road which will be unfortunate.\n        For what purpose is the Well house from the Mansion, carried to Union Farm? Save a plenty of the best Hay of last year for my horses, as I had rather they should be fed upon old, than the Hay of this season, when I come home. I am Your friend\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0130", "content": "Title: from William Pearce, 22 May 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: \n        Letter not found: from William Pearce, 22 May 1796. GW wrote Pearce on 5 June: \u201cSince my last I have received your letters of the 22d & 29th of last Month.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0131", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Thomas Pinckney, 22 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pinckney, Thomas\n        (Private)\n          Philadelphia 22d May 1796\n        To my letters of the 20th of February and 5th of March, I beg leave to refer you for the disclosure of my sentiments on the subjects then mentioned to you.\n        Very soon afterwards, a long, and animated discussion in the House of Representatives relative to the Treaty of Amity, Commerce & Navigation with Great Britain, took place; and continued\u2014in one shape or another\u2014until the last of April; suspending, in a manner, all other business; and agitating the public mind in a higher degree than it has been at any period since the Revolution. And nothing, I believe, but the torrent of Petitions, and remonstrances which were pouring in from all the Eastern and middle States, and were beginning to come pretty strongly from that of Virginia, requiring the necessary provisions for carrying the Treaty into effect, would have produced a decision (51 to 48) in favor of the appropriation.\n        But as the debates (which I presume will be sent to you from the Department of State) will give you a view of this business, more in detail than I am able to do, I shall refer you to them. The enclosed Speech, however, made by Mr Aimes at the close of the discussion, I send you; because, in the opinion of most that heard it delivered, or have read it since, his reasoning is unanswerable.\n        The doubtful issue of the dispute, added to the real difficulty in finding a character to supply your place, at the Court of London, has occasioned a longer delay than may have been convenient or agreeable to you. But as Mr King of the Senate (who it seems had resolved to quit his Seat at that board) has accepted the appointment, and will embark as soon as matters can be arranged, you will soon be relieved.\n        In my letter of the 20th of Feby, I expressed, in pretty strong terms, my sensibility on acct of the situation of the Marquis De la Fayette. This is increased by the visible distress of his Son, who is now with me, & grieving for the unhappy fate of his parents. This circumstance, giving a poignancy to my own feelings, on this occasion, has induced me to go a step further than I did on the letter above mentioned; as you will perceive by the enclosed Address (copy of which is also transmitted for your information) to the Emperor of Germany: to be forwarded by you in such a manner, and under such auspices as, in your judgment, shall be deemed best: or to arrest it, if from the evidence before you (derived from former attempts) it shall appear clear, that it would be of no avail to send it.\n        Before I close this letter, permit me to request the favor of you to embrace some favorable occasion, to thank Lord Grenville, in my behalf, for his politeness in causing a special permit to be sent to Liverpool for the shipment of two sacks of the field Peas, and the like quantity of Winter Vetches, which I had requested our Consul at that place to send me, for Seed; but which it seems could not be done without an Order from government. A circumstance which did not occur to me, or I certainly should not have given it the trouble of issuing one, for such a trifle. With very great esteem & regard I am\u2014Dear Sir Your obedt Servant\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0133", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 24 May 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n        The Secretary of State respectfully lays before the President of the U. States\u2014the draught of\n        A message to Congress on the subject of Genl St Clair\u2019s letter\u2014\n        Message to the Senate naming a district attorney for Massachusetts\u2014\n        A letter to Mr Pinckney\u2014and\n        A letter to Mr Parrish, Consul of the U. States at Hamburg.\n          Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0134", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James Madison, 25 May 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        Mr Madison presents his respectful compliments to the President, and begs to mention the wish of Joseph Nevil Esqr. (late a member of the House of Representatives) to be taken into consideration in the appointment of Surveyor, under the law for the sale of lands N. West of the Ohio. He takes the liberty also of inclosing a letter from General Posey, expressing his wishes with respect to an appointment, which Mr M. does not think it proper to withold, altho\u2019 the precise object of them, may not correspond with the arrangements of the law.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0136", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, 25 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate and House of Representatives\n          United States May the 25th 1796.\n          Gentlemen of the Senate and of the House of Representatives,\n        The Measures, now in operation for taking possession of the posts of Detroit and Michilimackinac, render it proper, that provision should be made for extending to those places and any others alike circumstanced the civil authority of the north western territory. To do this will require an expence, to defray which the ordinary salaries of the Governor and Secretary of that territory appear to be incompetent. The forming of a new County or new Counties and the appointment of the various Officers, which the just exercise of Government must require, will oblige the Governor & Secretary to visit those places and to spend considerable time in making the arrangements necessary for introducing and establishing the Government of the United States. Congress will consider what provision will in this case be proper.\n          G: Washington.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0137", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander White, 25 May 1796\nFrom: White, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n          Martinsburg [Va., now W.Va.] 25th May 1796\n        Agreeably to my expectation I left Philada on Monday the 9th instant and arrived at Washington the ensuing Wednesday; the measures adopted to avail ourselves of the guarantee of Congress have been communicated by the Board, but my Colleagues seemed in a state of suspense respecting the commencement of the Works, having no assurance on which they could rely of obtaining the means of carrying them on\u2014I felt much chagrine that at this critical period when the Eyes of the World were drawn a fresh towards the City by an event considered as favourable to it, that so unpleasant a prospect as a total stop to the buildings should be held up, and expressed this chagrine with reference to the supineness of the many wealthy men interested in the City, in terms of perhaps too much asperity\u2014it however produced a request, that I would remain \u2019till a meeting of the Proprietors could be had, to which I readily agreed, and on tuesday 17th instant several Gentlemen met, and after a good deal of conversation and some propositions, which it is unnecessary to repeat, they agreed in the course of 30 days to advance on the credit of the City Funds from 12 to 20,000 dollars, if so much should be necessary for immediate operations\u2014On Wednesday the Board met and directed the works to commence on the Walls of both Houses on Monday last, with all the force we can command, giving a considerable preference in point of numbers to the Capitol.\n        When I was honoured with my present appointmt it was not expected, that I could immediately remove my Family to the City, but the time which has since elapsed might then be thought\nsufficient to make the necessary arrangements: the fact however is otherwise. I have not during that whole time had one week to consider and dispose of my private affairs. My property has become more deranged and my business accumulated by my necessary absence from the Courts of March and April\u27e8.\u27e9 A great clamour is raised in the City respecting the non-residence of the Commissioners; though I accepted the Office with reluctance I do not now wish to resign I could not place myself in the situation I left, and to which I was perfectly reconciled, but I will not continue in Office without making known the conduct I mean to pursue; All I can do is, to place my property here in a situation which will render it productive, or at least save it from destruction in my absence; to purchase one or more Lots in the City; to build as fast as I can raise money to carry on my buildings; and when I finish a House to make it the place of my residence; in the mean time to pay all possible attention to the business of the City, consistent with prior engagements, which engagements I shall discharge as soon as possible, and in which I expect considerable aid from a Nephew lately come to the Bar\u2014Should holding my Office under these circumstances be agreeable I shall continue my exertions to promote an object, in which from various causes I feel myself deeply interested, if not, I shall hold myself ready to resign whenever the President shall make known his Sentiments; the sooner this takes place the more agreeable; as my future Arrangements will in many respects depend on it.\n        I expect this letter will reach you the 3d of June\u2014An Answer by the Post which leaves Philada the next morning will find me at my own House near Winchester\u2014but if it should not be convenient to write so soon, please direct to me in Washington where I expect to be the 12th of June I am really sorry to give you this trouble, but I thought a clear understanding necessary to avoid censure in future. I am with Sentiments of the highest respect and most sincere regard Sir Your most Ob. Servt\n          Alexr White", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0138", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Richard Clarkson, 26 May 1796\nFrom: Clarkson, Richard\nTo: Washington, George\n          Durham [England] 26 May 96\n        I hope your goodness will pardon me the trouble of this adress, the reason for which I sincearly lament by the advice of my attorney Geo: Pearson Esqr: of this place, I gave a power of attorney to Mr. C: Richmond a native of this neiborhood (he being then here) who lives at Baltimore maryland impouring him to receive for me what was due from the will of the late Mr Colvill the Business I need not repeat to you Sir\u2014the last letter from him was of 13th July 1794 from which time neither his friends here, nor I, have reced any acct from him, which occations me much Surprize under so long & so disagreable a Suspence Sir, it is not unnatural to Suppose the worst\u2014indeed Sir I fear he is Dead, for I do not suspect his Veracity in the Least, his professions of friendship were Generous & disinterested, which assur\u2019d him my entire Confidence as also Mr Pearsons\u2014if he is living, I think he ceartainly wo\u2019d have wrote long ere now\u2014what I have to beg of you Sir is that your Goodness will so far Condesend as favr me with an answr & if Mr R: is alive or not which will ad to the Obligations already recd by sir Yr Most Hbe Servt\n          Richd Clarkson\n          P.S. permit me Sir to give you a transcript of what Mr Richmond gave me respecting the Business in his last letter of the above Date\u2014he says, my friend Philip Richard Fendall Esqr. of Alexandria with whom your papers are\u2014informed me a few days before I wrote to my Brother that his Neibor Mr Kieth had been applied to by him on the Subject of your Legacy\u2014and that Mr Kieth answer\u2019d\u2014the Lawsute hat been brought to issue and a remainder found due to the residuary Legatees the last Summer; but that the money had not been paid to the Executer Genl Washington\u2014that when the General received it, the money would be placed in the hands of the Chancellor of the State of Virginia, by whom the merrits of the Several Claims wo\u2019d be desided upon\u2014thus the matter at present rests and I am Convinced that no delay which can be avoided will be caused by the\nPresident\u2014it has been a troublesome and unprofitable Business to him and I know he wishes it out of his hands as soon as posable, you may rely upon my doing every thing within my power to bring the affair as far as you are concern\u2019d to an issue & give you the Erliest Notice.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0139", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 26 May 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          War office Thursday afternoon [26 May 1796]\n        Mr Liston has this moment favoured me with the inclosed letter.\n        If you have time to look over the draught of the letter to Capn De Butts, and can return it to-day I shall endeavour to get him dispached to-morrow. I have the honour to be Sir with the highest respect Your most ob. st\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0140", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Deakins, Jr., 27 May 1796\nFrom: Deakins, William Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n        I find some of the City Proprietors, have or Intend to remonstrate to you the Necessity of the Commissioners\u2019 living in the City\u2014there is no doubt it would be more agreeable, if the Commissioners lived at the public Buildings, but it cannot be an Object of so much Consequence as to cause the removal of good Men from the Office, Doctr Thornton has agreed to remove to the City, & Mr Scott is Erectg buildings for his Accomodation Near the City Line & within one Mile of the Presidents Square, his Situation will be as Convenient as if he was settled on the Eastern Branch or in the City Near the Stone Bridge, I think him a Valuable Commissioner, perhaps equal to any one that has yet been in the appointment, Mr White is also a Valuable Man Neither of these Gentleman will agree at present to settle in the City. if Mr Whites family should agree to remove No doubt they will settle in the City. but Mr Scott will never remove\u2014from the Improvements he is now Making at so heavy an Expence the proprietors seem to Ask what is unreasonable, the Change of Commissioners or at least two of them, would be a serious Evil, it would derange the whole business of the City and thousands would be lost by such an Event. Scott is well Calculated for making Contracts & seems to have a perfect Knowledge of the Value of Work & Meterials the Contracts for the public buildgs have been made on much more favorable terms, than Contracts made by private Individuals who are laying out their own Money. It may be thought that my situation as Treasurer may give me a Bias in favor of the Commissioners, or that my Office as Treasurer may be an Object. I can with truth say Neither has any Influence on my Mind. I beleive I have lost more than I have gain\u2019d by the Commission. I have frequently been largely in Advance for the City to prevent a discharge of the hands at a time when great Injury would have been done, & these Advances happened at times when I could have laid out my Money in produce & Cleared a profit of ten pCt in 60 days\u2014& in all the Negotiations with the Banks for the Accomodation of the City I pledged my private Estate, otherwise the Money could not have been borrowed, the Bank of Maryland as well as the Bank of Columbia refused to discount my Notes as Treasurer of the City of Washington, however\nas I expect there will not now (as soon as the loan is Negotiated) be any difficulty as to Money Maters when this happens, I shall probable resign my office into other hands, It may be an Object to others it is no Object to me\u2014and as my residence is in Geo. Town the proprietors may be better pleased if this offi\u27e8ce\u27e9 is put in other hands, & if any Intimati\u27e8on\u27e9 of such a desire should come to you through the proprietors, I wish you to tell them that they may be gratified, I do not know they have any such wish but if they should I wish to set them at ease\u2014I have frequently taken the Liberty to Communicate to you my Sentiments on public Matters that has come under my knowledge & I hope it will not be thought Improper, I am with Every Sentiment of Respect & Esteem\u2014Dear Sir Your Obt Servt\n          Will. Deakins Junr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0143", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 28 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate\n          Gentlemen of the Senate.\n          United States May 28th 1796\n        I nominate Simeon De Witt, of New York, to be Surveyor General.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0144", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 28 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate\n          Gentlemen of the Senate\n          United States 28th May 1796\n        I nominate John Quincy Adams, at present Minister Resident of the United States at the Hague, to be their Minister Plenipotentiary at Lisbon.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0145", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, 28 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate and House of Representatives\n          United States 28th May 1796\n          Gentlemen of the Senate and of the House of Representatives.\n        The extraordinary expenses, to be incurred in the present year in supporting our foreign intercourse, I find will require a provision beyond the ordinary appropriation, and the additional twenty thousand dollars lately granted.\n        I have directed an estimate to be made, which is sent herewith, and will exhibit the deficiency, for which an appropriation appears to be necessary.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0146", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 29 May 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n        Letter not found: to Alexander Hamilton, 29 May 1796. Hamilton wrote GW on 1 June: \u201cYour letter of the 29th was delivered me.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0147", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 29 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n          Mr Pearce,\n          Philadelphia 29th May 1796.\n        No Mail beyond Baltimore (Southerly) was received at the Post Office in this City yesterday; consequently, I got no letter from you; what may have been the cause I know not, unless the considerable falls of rain which happened here during last week, may have rendered the waters between Alexandria and Baltimore (if they extended so far) impassible.\n        You have never mentioned in any of your late letters, nor has it occurred, at the time of writing mine, to ask, whether a Pipe of Wine, & box of Tea, which was sent from this place for Mount Vernon, had arrived, and in what condition. It was in March, or the beginning of April they left this\u2014And another Vessel with Windsor Chairs and sundry other Articles for the same place, have been gone from hence long enough to have heard of their arrival \u2019ere this. These occurrences ought always to be noticed in your letters, to relieve one from the suspense which otherwise follows. Before we leave this, we shall send several other matters round, but whenever they are shipped you shall have notice thereof that they may be taken from Alexandria so soon as they arrive there; at which time procure a groce of good Porter to be taken down along with them. In the meantime, have a few\nBottles of Porter there, & some wine for particular company, who may be particularly recommended to you by myself: among these Mr Aimes, a respectable member of Congress (travelling for his health) will, I expect, be one, as he proposes to set out from hence for the Federal City about the middle of this week, and is one I wish to be well treated, while he stays. I have requested Mr Lear to shew him the way down to Mount Vernon.\n        Is Maria and the two boys at that place now, or where are they? No mention has been made of them for sometime. When (from present appearances) will your early Wheat be ready to cut? and how does that, and the other small grain, Peas, & grasses come on? What was done with the Seed saved from the India Hemp last Summer? It ought, all of it, to have been sown again; that not only a stock of seed sufficient for my own purposes might have been raised, but to have dissiminated the seed to others; as it is more valuable than the common Hemp.\n        Congress talk of rising about the middle of this week; but there is no dependance on it. In about ten or twelve days after the Session closes, it is likely I shall commence my journey homewards: as soon as I can fix the day, I will advise you of it.\n        I have several times spoke concerning a necessary for the Quarter People, at Mansion house; and once or twice shewed Thomas Green the precise spot to place it\u2014viz.\u2014in the drain that leads from the old brick kiln back of the Well, towards the gully leading towards the gate; that, having this advantage the offensive matter might be washed off by the Rain water that collects in the gutter. I wish you would have this done before we come home that the yard of the Quarter may be always clean & Sweet. If the old necessary on the brow of the Hill can be moved with more ease than building a new one, let it be done, as it is not only useless where it is but is an eye-sore. Order the other two to be \u27e8well cleaned &\u27e9 kept in good order. During my stay at Mount Vernon I expect much company there, and of the most respectable sort. it would be pleasing to us therefore to find everything in nice order. I wish you well and am your friend\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0148", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 29 May 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n        Letter not found: from William Pearce, 29 May 1796. GW wrote Pearce on 5 June: \u201cI have received your letters of the 22d & 29th of last Month.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0149", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James Anderson (of Scotland), 30 May 1796\nFrom: Anderson, James (of Scotland)\nTo: Washington, George\n          Honoured Sir\n          Cotfield near Edenburgh 30th May 1796\n        Your respected favour of the [\u2003] Feby was transmitted to me by Mr Pinckney about a week ago, since which time I have felt uneasy lest you may have thought I neglected to return an answer, in time, to the letter you alude to dated in December last, which never has yet reached me. I shall regret, if in consequence of that circumstance, any thing that could have depended upon me shall have been neglected\u2014But little is it in my power to be of the service I wish on any occasion!\n        I never in my life experienced this inability more strongly than at present, for, I fear the circumstances of the two countries are relatively such as to bar all hopes of my being able effectually to forward your views. This does not proceed so much from any political arrangements, or legislative regulations here, as from\nthe situation of individuals respecting enterprises of the kind proposed: for things are much changed from what they were a few years ago, in that respect. At the period to which I allude, many respectable sober-minded persons of moderate fortune had their eyes directed to the American states as a country in which there was a greater prospect of rendering a small stock a foundation of a moderate independance that might be enjoyed in peace and tranquillity than elsewhere; but in consequence of the reports that have been circulated by a few individuals who have returned; corroborated by letters that have been received in all parts of this country by the relations of many who have remained, the desire of emigrating, among persons of the above description has died almost entirely away, and it is now only found to prevail to a considerable degree among persons of another description, who I should be very sorry to recommend to your notice.\n        You must be sufficiently informed from other quarters, that there exists in this country (and I fear in other countries also) a small, but violent party who are highly discontented with the present form of our government. As this government, however, is firmly supported by a vast majority of the thinking people in all parts of the country, they find their efforts to change it so ineffectual as to have excited a rage in their minds that prompts them to wish for a change of situation. Of this class of emigrants many have of late years found their way into America, little I fear to its profit\u2014and more are still desireous of going thither; nor do I know that ever any effort has been made by government to restrain them. Among persons of this description, were I to search for them I have no doubt but some would be found who would gladly close with any proposals that could be offered on your part\u2014but my regard for you is too sincere ever to permit me to think of such a thing. I have watched this class of men for several years past, and barring a few persons of very mean intellectual powers, I have reason to believe that the whole party derives its existence from embarassment of circumstances, or an inordinate desire for rule, frequently, among persons of even large property originating from the same source. There are many men \u27e8in\u27e9 every country who choosing to live in a stile beyond that to which their funds can easily reach, feel private embarassments that the world in general does not\nperceive\u2014this naturally tends to sour the mind, and to make it dwell with satisfaction on the gloomy side of every object, so that it at last becomes so exceedingly disposed to discontent, that every hint which touches on that string produces a forcible effect and they become at last seriously convinced that nothing good exists around them\u2014Had the same person never felt the embarassment which gave the first gloomy biass to the mind, that biass would never have been experienced\u2014On the contrary if the cheering sensation that results from easy circumstances had prevailed, content and satisfaction would have been the natural tendency of the mind. Whether these remarks are just or not, it is a certain fact that nine out of ten of the disaffected party here are men of dissipated manners, or such as are in needy circumstances neither of which would be proper for your purpose. Among the class of respectable opulent farmers, who in this part of the country at present form a very valuable part of the community, none are to be found, who would move even to a few miles distan\u27e8ce\u27e9 from their native place without very high encouragement indeed\u2014And if such men were to go to America they would aim at becoming proprietors of land themselves, the purchase price of which is so much lower than in this country as strongly to impress their mind with that idea\u2014But among this class of men at present for the reasons above given, few are to be found who have their views turned towards America.\n        Before the war there was another class of men who without ever intending to leave this island had begun to purchase great tracts of land there, as a mercantile speculation, with a view to sell them out again in smaller allotments. But the immoderate profits that monied men can now derive from their capital by speculating in the funds here; has entirely driven all the ready cash of the nation into that vortex, so as for the present to put a stop to every idea of entering into distant speculations of any sort\u2014Besides, the laws of some of the states lay bars in the way of such attempts and an idea begins to prevail here that the tenure by which such property is held is less secure than it was once imagined to be, which must have a tendency to repress similar enterprises, as it will probably have an effect also upon the state of your public funds. From all these considerations my hope of being able effectually to cooperate in forwarding your views by no means corresponds with my wishes, which occasions a\nregret so strong that it perhaps makes me also more desponding than I ought to be. Should that prove to be the case, nothing will more add to my happiness in life\u2014for next to enjoying tranquillity of mind myself there is nothing could be more pleasing to me than to think that I could be in any respect instrumental in augmenting the tranquillity and enjoyment that you have so good a right to expect. I shall do my best to put the papers you have entrusted to me into the hands of such persons as I think have the best chance of doing service\u2014under the cautions you have, with your usual liberality recommended. I regret however, that from my inferior station of life, and the narrow sphere in which I move, that I can have less in my power than others might have had. The only thing that I can command in this case is my best wishes and these shall never be wanting.\n        I am glad you approve the principle of the iron bridge. The calculations have been sufficiently accurate to prove beyond a doubt that in every case the charge must be greatly below that of a stone bridge\u2014And that in some cases it could not amount to one tenth part of the sum\u2014But these are particulars that are not at present of sufficient importance to require your attention.\n        I have used the freedom to request the favour of Mr Pinckney to transmit to you an additional volume of Essays relative to Agriculture and Rural affairs (bei\u27e8ng the thi\u27e9rd) just now published by me, which I beg the favour of you to ho\u27e8nour\u27e9 with your acceptance\u2014Should a time ever arrive when you could be permitted to direct your undisturbed attention to objects of that nature you would find it a source of much enjoyment\u2014But at present objects of greater magnitude call for your attention. This volume gives a view of some of the internal arrangements in Britain, that are not, I presume, very generally known abroad. I have the honour to be, with the most respectful esteem Sir your most obedient Hule Servt\n          Jas Anderson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0150", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 30 May 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Commissioners for the District of Columbia\n          Gentlemen,\n          Philadelphia 30th May 1796.\n        As no Mail southward of Baltimore was received at the Post Office in this City on Saturday; and as you may not have understood by my letter of the 22d instt, that the duplicate of the Power of Attorney to Messrs Wilhem and Jan Willink was required to be forwarded through me, I address this to you, in order to remove the doubt if any there be; as copies of the other papers are ready, and only waiting your duplicates to be dispatched.\n        In consequence of your recommendation of Mr Freeman, he was nominated, and by the advice & consent of the Senate has been appointed, Surveyor for running the Territorial line between the United States and Spain, at the rate of (*) dollars pr annum.\n        This service cannot commence before the Ratification of the Treaty by Spain is received; and the Commissioner and Surveyor on the part of that Power are known, & ready to proceed. It will not therefore interfere with any Services you may require, and Mr Freeman can render, until he is called upon to execute this business; which, probably, will not be before Autumn. At which time the Commissions will issue.\n        His request was to be employed in settling the Northern boundary between the United States and Great Britain, but the appointment of the Surveyors for that purpose is left to the Commissioners, who are to decide ultimately; I did not incline therefore to bring forward the name of any one for this service, even to our own Commissioner. With esteem & regard I am\u2014Gentlemen Your obedient Servant\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0151", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 30 May 1796\nFrom: Lear, Tobias\nTo: Washington, George\n          My dear Sir,\n          Washington May 30th 1796\n        I have this moment returned from Berkley County where I have been detained much longer than I expected on account of the difficulties raised by the Wagers; because the land was not taken possession of on the first of April, agreeably to contract. These I have at last surmounted, and have received possession for the United States; but the deeds are not yet executed, as one of the parties is in Philada. The money, of course, is not yet paid. They have, however, obligated themselves to have the deeds ready by the first of july. The Court have not yet decided on the Saw-mill tract; but have engaged to do it in the August term. I have taken possession of that, so far as to have any use of it or the Saw mill that may be wanted for the United States in the mean-time.\n        You will have the goodness, my dear Sir, to let Mrs Washington know that I can procure no dble refined Sugar in this quarter,\nbut at a price higher than in Philadelphia, and therefore have not purchased any.\n        I intend tomorrow to visit my little folks, who, I hear, are well. I expect my son Lincoln here in the course of a week or ten days, with a young man who is highly recommended as a tutor. I expect my mother will come on with him and pass the summer with me.\n        Mr Pearce informed me, the day before I sat off up the Country, that Mr Smith had agreed to take your flour @ $14, on a Credit of 6 Months, which I think was doing very well with it; for it is now down to 9\u00bd dollars Cash\u2014and very dull. Upwards of 40,000 barrels are in Alexandria, and no demand abroad to justify shipping even at 9 dollars. Large quantities are still in the Country, and coming in daily. I was detained at Harpers ferry from tuesday \u2019till saturday last, during which time upwards of forty boats passed by and sailed from thence, loaded with flour, each carrying from 100 to 120 barrels. The wheat and other grain in the part of the Country where I have been look remarkably well\u2014and there is more in the ground than was ever before known in one year. The rains which have been falling almost incessantly for 6 days past may injure the Crops; but, without such an event, they will be the largest ever known. The early wheat, and the common which was sown early, will receive most injury.\n        The people throughout the Country where I have been (and I have travelled pretty extensively for 2 weeks past) appear highly satisfied with the treaty having gone into effect, and if the British give up the posts according to stipulation, I see nothing to interrupt the happiness of our Country. Should they not do it, there will be but one voice in the community.\n        I shall have the honor to write to you by the next, or following post and hope soon to have the happiness to see you in this quarter.\n        I have not yet heard from Mr B. Bassett since I wrote to him from Philadelphia. I shall write to him again, and should he not come or send for Maria before I get my boys fixed I shall have her attended to with them.\n        Please to make my best & most affectionate Respects acceptable to Mrs Washington\u2014and my kindest regards to my good friends Mr Fayettee, Mr Frestel and Washington. With the\npurest respect & most perfect attachment I have the honor to be, My dear Sir, Your grateful & affectionate friend.\n          Tobias Lear.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0152", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Sinclair, 30 May 1796\nFrom: Sinclair, John\nTo: Washington, George\n          Whitehall [London] 30th May 1796\n        Being unfortunately much troubled with an Inflammation in my Eyes, I beg Your Excellency will have the Goodness to excuse the Liberty I take, in making use of a borrowed Hand.\n        The Session of the Board of Agriculture has closed for this Year, and I am now preparing to go to Scotland, which hurries me much; but I could not think of leaving this Town, without having the Honour of acknowledging the Receipt of Your obliging Letter of the 20th of February, with the Inclosure. I regret much that any Circumstance should have prevented for the present (but I hope that some time or other it will be effected) the establishing of that Agreement so interesting to Humanity, and from which all Nations must derive such Benefit, but, I hope\nthat Your Excellency will have it in View, whenever a proper Opportunity occurs.\n        We have printed an additional Appendix to the Chapter on Manures, on which we should be glad to be favored with the Remarks of the intelligent Farmer to whom the former Paper on that Subject was given. We are now carrying on a Set of Experiments, under the Directions of Dr Fordyce, which I trust will clear up the Doctrine of Vegetation and Manures. The Queries respecting Live Stock, Copies of which are also sent, will, I trust, throw much Light on that important Department in Husbandry.\n        I take the Liberty at the same time of sending to Your Excellency Copies of my Address to the Board, explaining the Progress we have made during the last session; also specimens of the Manner in which we acknowledge the Receipt of Communications, and return Our Thanks to those who merit them.\n        I am glad to hear that Your Excellency preserves good Health, and if you wish to enjoy Tranquillity and Ease, as you cannot expect that Satisfaction in America where even at Mount Vernon you would be perpetually applied to on Matters of Business, I hope you will excuse me expressing my Hopes and Wishes, that you would think of spending at least one Year of Tranquillity and Ease in England, where, I am sure, you would be received in a Manner highly flattering and agreeable, by all Ranks and Descriptions of People, and by none with more Respect and Regard than by Him, who has Honour to subscribe himself, Your Excellency\u2019s faithful and obedient Servant\n          John Sinclair\n          N.B. I hope that a very beneficial Intercourse will be established between America and Great Britain, in the article of oil Cake\u2014I have ordered the Bookseller to send Your Excellency two Sets of the corrected County Reports, as they come out, and he will settle regarding the Price with his Correspondent in America. I think that there cannot be too many of those Reports circulated there\u2014I shall write to Your Excellency from Scotland respecting the Farms on the Mount Vernon Estate.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0153", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Strickland, 30 May 1796\nFrom: Strickland, William\nTo: Washington, George\n        By the civility of Mr Pinckney in seeking me out in this place, I had the honor of receiving your letter a few days since, & am consequently enabled to acknowledge the receipt of it by the Packet which will be made up tomorrow. I am extremely happy in being favoured with your recollection & should an opportunity present itself of being of service to you in making known to any one, who, as you state it, may have resolved on transplanting himself, the terms on which you propose disposing of your property or any other particulars connected with it, which may have come to my knowledge, I shall seize it with pleasure; but I am apprehensive that the power to be of service, may fall far short of the inclination; According to observations I have made both here & in America; of all classes of people, the farmer appears most rarely to emigrate & they who do emigrate, to have often other than good motives for it. The cause of this is easily assigned; of all the different professions in this country the farmer is the most respected, enjoys the greatest number of comforts, distinctions, & immunities & possesses the most property; he is moreover from habit or principle strongly attached to the soil on which he has been brought up, & to the country that places him in a station of so much respectability, & is according to his views & station in life in my opinion better circumstanced here than in any other country I have seen; it is therefore not to be wonderd at that so few people of this description should quit it; I therefore despair of meeting with such respectable characters, as I ought to introduce to you or you would choose to receive; but chance may throw them in my way. This statement of mine\nhas been frequently controverted in America, but I am sure your liberality will allow me to state an opinion founded on much observation, and which has been confirmed by the few gentlemen from America (& I wish for the sake of both our countries that they had been far more numerous) who with decerning eyes have travelled in this country.\n        The letter with which you have favourd me, affords an opening which I regretted having lost when in America, for making a few agricultural remarks on subjects which struck me during my last year\u2019s tour, & which the short time I was in Philadelphia after my return from the southward deprived me of the opportunity of communicating. these I will take the liberty of addressing you upon soon after my return home, when I shall also farther notice your letter, & the paper accompanying it, as naturally connected with the other subject; not having my memorandums with me in London I am not able to enter upon it at present.\n        I was in hopes of having an opportunity, when in America, of introducing to your acquaintance a particular Friend of mine, who crossed the Atlantic with me, but who not having been in Philadelphia during that period, it never occurred. The person I allude to is Mr Miles Smith now residing at Ross Hall near New-Brunswick in N: Jersey, which estate he has purchased. Mr Smith is a gentleman of good family & connections in the county of York, with whom I have been intimately acquainted the greatest part of my life, & I take the liberty of mentioning him to you because, exclusively of his being an estimable character in every point of private life, he is by far the best practical farmer on a great scale of any gentleman with whom I ever was acquainted, & particularly in every branch of agriculture connected with the Plough or Sheep, & was looked up to as such by his whole neighbourhood, & nothing can more fully prove his intelligence than a most beautifully cultivated estate, which I remember not many years since little better than a wilderness, of which he still keeps the occupancy in his own hands, in Yorkshire. It appears to me that Mr Smith could not be in any part of the United States which I have seen, without being able to suggest much for the improvement of it; but as Mr S: has unfortunately lost his wife, since I returned to this country, & is left with a numerous young family, it is possible he may be under the necessity of returning home again; Such a character I am confident I need not\napologise for mentioning to you, having observed the patronage you have always extended to the meritorious stranger, & your desire of communicating with all those who could be of service to your country. I will add that Mr Smith has not had the slightest intimation of my intention of mentioning his name to you, in order to avoid any expectation on his part or inconvenience on yours, & that I shall not for the same reasons hereafter notice it to him.\n        By a letter I received some time since from Mr Wadsworth of Connecticut, I was sorry to find, that of some seeds in part the same as those I took the liberty of presenting to you, few had grown, probably from having received damage on Shipboard, tho I had taken what care of them I was able; should yours have succeeded no better, there could no longer be any doubt of the fact & I should be desirous of being informed of it that I might have an opportunity of replacing any you would point out, or would allow me to substitute in their place; give me leave to add that I could experience no greater satisfaction, than in being of any service to you in my power in this country, or in executing any commission with which you would charge me; it would be the slightest return I could make for the civilities & attentions I received from you when in America, which I shall ever remember with pleasure & gratitude.\n        The Board of Agriculture are steadily pursuing the object of their institution, with every prospect of this country & perhaps others, reaping much advantage from it, as I convey to you, along with this letter a parcel and a letter which Sr John Sinclair has this day put into my hands; I need say nothing more on this subject. I beg you will make my best respects to Mrs Washington & that you will believe me to be with the truest esteem & respect Sir Your very obedient, Humble Servant\n          Wm: Strickland\n          P.S. My direction (should it at any time be required) is W: S: York England.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0155", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James Francis Armstrong, 31 May 1796\nFrom: Armstrong, James Francis\nTo: Washington, George\n        I beg leave to bring before your mind that, if a vacancy in any office in your appointment, for which you may judge me fit, should occur, you would consider me as a candidate. The Secretary of the Treasury will detail the motives upon which I found my request. I have the honour to be\u2014Sir, your most obedient Servant\n          James F. Armstrong", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0156", "content": "Title: To George Washington from the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 31 May 1796\nFrom: Commissioners for the District of Columbia\nTo: Washington, George\n          City of Washington 31st May 1796\n        We have this day, the honor of your Letter of the 22nd of this month, which was detained on the road by the late heavy rains\u2014The Duplicate of the powers to Mesrs Wilhem & Jan Willink, we should not fail to forward by the next post, but as the original was signed by Mr White, it will be more in order to have his signature to the Copy\u2014It shall be our first business, on his arrival, which we expect will be in few days\u2014Your objection to placing the whole Sum authorized to be borrowed in one Year, upon the issue of a negotiation in Holland; which, under existing circumstances, may be ineffectual, we likewise had under consideration, but the result was\u2014if we could borrow money here, it might be repaid upon the successful issue of the Dutch negotiation and we should thus run no risk of interrupting our operations\u2014Under this Idea, we have proceeded, & have obtained an accommodation from some of the proprietors of the City\u2014They agreed to offer their notes at the Bank of Columbia for $12,000 for the use of the City of Washington, for 2 months, to be repaid from the first receipts of the Commissioners after taking up the notes passed in their own private capacity, to the amount of 20,000 Dollars\u20143,000 Dolls. have been obtained and loaned to the City.\n        We opened the Works on the 23rd Ulto\u2014and although the Weather has been uncommonly wet and unfavorable, yet we have made a very great progress, and we hope that no just cause of complaint, can possibly exist\u2014It is not unknown to us that some unthinking persons have attributed the mal-construction of the foundation-Wall of the Capitol to the want of attention\non the part of the Commissioners\u2014but if they had visited and walked over the Walls three times a day, it would not have been possible to prevent imposition where men are resolved to practice it, and the Commissioners had reliance on the Work, not only from the Character the undertaker then enjoyed; but also on the care and attention of the Superintendant\u2014Many disadvantages are attributed to the non-residence of the Comms. in the City\u2014We lament that any person could expect us to live there, before houses are prepared for accommodation\u2014some of the board have always said, that they mean to remove thither as soon as even decent houses could be had\u2014The proprietors have not been active in their preparations, otherwise, this cause of their complaint would not now exist. The board are disposed to do every thing in their power, not only to give satisfaction to the public, but also, to obtain the approbation of those whose knowledge of their affairs may enable them to judge more justly & truly of their conduct\u2014Your wishes with respect to the Sale of Lots, we are happy to have anticipated\u2014We know it to be a principle which you have constantly inculcated to encourage individuals disposed to build & settle & to discourage large speculations\u2014Such principles we have made the constant rule of our conduct, and we think it the only certain mode of disposing of the public property to advantage, except our necessities may require a certain departure from this established rule\u2014In such a case, however, we should act with caution, and consider the evidence of its advantages, as requisite to our justification\u2014If the situation of the Bank of the United states is such, as to afford any prospect of success\u2014We think it would be prudent to endeavor to obtain 20 or 30,000$ through that channel\u2014We think 10,000$ \u214c month, with our other funds, might do, during the building season\u2014Some conversation on this subject, passed between Mr White & the Secy of the Treasy\u2014Would Mr Wolcott interest himself with the Directors, it might have a good effect\u2014The sum wanted ought to be repaid out of the first receipt under the Loan\u2014& an advance of 10,000$ \u214c month could not be sensibly felt, by the Bank\u2014We have written to Genl Stewart, one of the Directors, for information on the state of the Bank\u2014no answer has yet been received\u2014Any thing that may [be] deemed worthy of your attention, and which may escape us, at present,\nwe shall not fail to lay before you, when We have the happiness to welcome you to this place. We are Sir &c.\n          Signed\u2014G. ScottW. Thornton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0157", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 31 May 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n            Tuesday afternoon [31 May 1796]\n        If you see no objection to the inclosed letter in answer to Mr Hawkins received to-day it may be sent by to-morrows mail. I have the honour to be Sir with sincere regard Your ob. st\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0158", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 31 May 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n        The Secretary of State has the honor to inclose a letter from our Consul at Cadiz, with one for the President.\n        The secretary recollects a Colo. Tatem\u2019s calling on him last summer. He said he had been formerly in the southwestern territory\u2014talked about very valuable maps of the U. States or some of them which he had made and was making; but needed pecuniary aid to complete & publish his plans\u2014he might have intimated a hope of governmental aid.\n          T. Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0159", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 1 June 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n        Your letter of the 29th was delivered me by Mr King yesterday afternoon. I thought I had acknowleged the Receipt of the paper inquired for in a letter written speedily after it\u2014or in one\nwhich transmitted you a draft of a certain letter by Mr Jay. I hope this came to hand.\n        I am almost afraid to appear officious in what I am going to say; but the matter presses so deeply on my mind that fearing you may not recollect the situation of the thing and that it may happen not to be brought fully under your eye, I cannot refrain from making the suggestion to you. It regards a Bill which I am told has lately passed the two houses of Congress authorising a sale of Bank Stock for paying off a sum due to the Bank\u2014You will perceive by the 8th and 9th Sections of the Act intitled \u201cAn Act making further provision for the support of public Credit and for the Redemption of the public Debt\u201d passed the 3d of March 1795 that the dividends of the Bank Stock are appropriated to the Sinking Fund with all the force and solemnity of which language is capable and that to divert them in the manner proposed (and this too without any substitute in the act which so diverts) will be a formal express and unequivocal violation of the public faith\u2014will subvert the system of the Sinking Fund and with it all the security which is meant to be given to the people for the Redemption of the Public Debt, and, violating the sanctity of an appropriation for the public Debt, will overturn at once the foundation of Public Credit. These are obvious and undeniable consequences, and though I am aware that great embarrassments may ensue to the Treasury, if the Bill by the objection of The President is lost and no substitute for it takes place towards the reimbursement of the Bank\u2014Yet I am sure no consequences can ensue of equal moment from the rejection as from the principle of the Bill going into execution. All the Presidents administration has effected for establishing the Credit of the Country will be prostrate at a single blow\u2014He will readily make all the necessary comments upon this position. It grieves my heart to see so much shocking levity in our Representative Body. Most respectfully & Affecty I remain Sir Yr very Obed. Ser.\n          A. Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0160", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Elizabeth Willing Powel, 1 June 1796\nFrom: Powel, Elizabeth Willing\nTo: Washington, George\n          [Philadelphia] Wednesday June 1st 1796\n        Feeling myself incapable of nourishing an implacable Resentment; and in conformity with your better and dispassionate Judgment I have after maturely considering all that passed Yesterday, determined to dine with you Tomorrow, when I will endeavor to meet your Ideas with Fortitude. With Sentiments of Respect & Affection I am Sir Your sincere Friend\n          Eliza. Powel", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0162", "content": "Title: Proceedings of the Sinking Fund Commissioners, 1 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: \n        At a Meeting of the Commissioners of the Sinking Fund, at the office of the Secretary of the Treasury on the first day of June 1796.\n        Present, The Secretary of State, the Secretary of The Treasury The Attornay General.\n        A Report of the Secretary of the Treasury dated May 31st 1796, respecting the measures proper to be adopted by this Board, for the due execution of the Act entitled \u201cAn Act making\nprovision for the payment of certain Debts of the United States\u201d was read; and is as follows\u2014To wit\n        The Secretary of the Treasury respectfully reports to the Commissioners of the Sinking Fund,\n        That the following sums of the capital or principal of the public debt, already have or will become due and payable in the course of the present year, the reimbursement of which according to law is to be made under the superintendence of the Commissioners of the Sinking fund\u2014vizt\n        To the Bank of the United States,\n            Three instalments of a Loan of 400,000 dollars obtained pursuant to an act entitled \u201can act for raising a further sum of money for the protection of the frontiers & for other purposes,\u201d passed on the 2d day of May 1792\n            Two instalments of a Loan of two millions of dollars obtained pursuant to an act passed on the 18th day of December 1794 for that purpose\n            Two Loans of 500,000 dollars each obtained pursuant to an act making appropriations for the military & naval establishments & for the support of Government passed on the 3d of March 1795\n            A Loan of 500,000 dollars obtained under the 1st section of the act for the support of public credit & for the redemption of the public Debt, passed on the 3d of March 1795\n            Two instalments of the Loan of 2,000,000 of dollars obtained pursuant to the act for incorporating the Bank of the United States\n            An instalment of a Loan of 800,000 dollars obtained pursuant to an act passed on the 21st day of February 1795, for the expenses of foreign intercourse\n            To the Bank of New York for amount of a loan obtained pursuant to an act passed on the  20th of March 1794 for expenses of foreign Intercourse\n            To Creditors in Holland for, An instalment of one million of Guilders due on a Contract dated June 11. 1782\n            Amounting in the whole to five Millions of Dollars.\n        That by an Act passed during the present session of Congress entitled \u201cAn Act making provision for the payment of certain debts of the United States\u201d the Commissioners of the Sinking Fund are authorised with the approbation of The President of the United States to obtain the said sum of five millions of Dollars upon Loan, by creating a funded stock transferable at the Treasury & Loan offices respectively bearing Interest at six per centum per annum payable quarter yearly, which stock at the said rate of Interest is to remain fixed & irredeemable until the close of the year 1819 and to be redeemed thereafter at the pleasure of the United States.\n        That the Creditors of the United States before mentioned may pursuant to the said act subscribe to the said Loan & receive the said Stock in payment of their respective demands, or the Commissioners of the Sinking fund may cause certificates for the said stock to be constituted & sold in the United States or elsewhere, applying the proceeds thereof to the payment of said demands, provided that not more than two millions five hundred thousand Dollars of the said Stock be sold under par: or the said Commissioners may sell the shares of the stock of the Bank of the United States, belonging to the United States, in lieu of selling the funded stock before mentioned, if in their judgments sales of the said Bank shares will be most advantageous to the United States.\n        Upon this recital of facts The Secretary of the Treasury represents, that dividends upon the Stock of the Bank of the United States, have been for several years, made at the rate of four per Centum half yearly; that there is a reasonable prospect that future dividends will be declared at the same rate; that by a resolution of the President & Directors of the said Bank, the proprietors of the capital Stock thereof residing in Europe are entitled to receive either in London or in Amsterdam, the half yearly\ndividends which may be declared, six months after the said dividends are declared in the United States: in London at the rate of one pound sterling for every four dollars and forty five cents; or in Amsterdam at the rate of one Guilder current money for every forty cents & four mills money of the United States; that the Bank undertakes the risque and expense of remittances at these rates, & therefore that Bank Stock when transferred to a foreigner possesses the essential properties of a Debt contracted in a foreign Country, that it is the policy of the United States not to increase unnecessarily public debt in foreign Countries; that the present price of Bank Stock is no more than twenty seven perCent advance upon the original capital when sold in the United States; that the price in London by the last advices was even considerably below this rate; that sales to any great amount would probably depress the price here to a level with the current price in London, & that for these reasons a comparison between what now is the price of a stock bearing eight pr Centum \u214c annum, with a stock bearing six pr centum pr annum does not afford a correct criterion to guide the choice of the Commissioners upon the alternative contained in the Law; he is therefore of opinion that the Commissioners of the Sinking fund ought to attempt to raise the requisite funds upon Loans, or by sales of the proposed new funded stock, and that recourse ought not to be had to the authority to sell the Bank shares belonging to the Ud States except in a case of the utmost emergency, or without the absolute injunction of Law.\n        The Secretary is moreover of opinion, that the Commissioners ought to be restrained from selling the said Bank shares, not only by the improvidence of such a measure, but also by their respect for the principles of public credit, and their duty as Trustees for the Creditors. By an Act of last Session the dividends on the Bank stock belonging to the United States were declared to be appropriated to the Sinking fund & vested in trust in the Commissioners until the whole of the then present debt of the United States except the three prCent stock should be fully reimbursed & redeemed; the faith of the United States was moreover pledged that the said dividends with the other funds mentioned in the Act should inviolably remain appropriated & vested to be applied to the said reimbursement & redemption. Under these circumstances the Secretary considers the said dividends as having been compleatly alienated by the Legislature and as\ncloathed with all the qualities of private property in the hands of the Commissioners who are answerable not only to the United States, but also to the creditors for the faithful discharge of their trust. On these principles the Secretary presumes that the Commissioners will not judge it to be advantageous to the United States to authorise sales of the said Bank stock, & he therefore submits the following resolutions to their consideration.\n        Resolved that application be made to the President of the United States for his consent & approbation to the opening of a Loan for Five millions of Dollars pursuant to the terms & conditions of the Act entitled \u201cAn act making provision for the payment of certain Debts of the United States & for the purposes therein mentioned.\u201d\n        Resolved that if the consent & approbation of The President of the United States be obtained for opening the said Loan, the same be conducted under the direction of the Secretary of the Treasury in manner following\u2014To wit\n        1st. That the President & Directors of the Bank of the United States be invited to subscribe the whole or any part of the said five millions of Dollars upon condition that so much of the said sum as shall be subscribed & as shall be necessary to satisfy the Loans & Instalments had of said Bank which already have or will fall due on or before the first day of Januy next, shall be applied to that purpose, and upon condition that for such further sums as shall be subscribed, the said Bank will advance & lend an equal amount to be applied in payment of the Loan had of the Bank of New York or the Instalment of foreign Debt which will fall due in the course of the present year.\n        2d. That in case the said President & Directors of the Bank of the United States shall decline to subscribe the whole sum of Five millions of Dollars, that then the president and Directors of the Bank of New York be invited to subscribe the sum of Two hundred thousand dollars to be applied to the payment of the Loan had of said Bank.\n        3rd. That for such sum of the Loan of Five millions of Dollars as shall not be subscribed by the President & Directors of the Bank of the United States or the President & Directors of the Bank of New York as before proposed, there be constituted certificates of Stock in the manner authorised by Law, and that the same be sold for account of the United States by the President\n& Directors of the Bank of the United States on such terms and pursuant to such directions as shall from time to time be given by the Commissioners of the Sinking Fund, or the Secretary of the Treasury, for that purpose. So however that not more than two millions & five hundred thousand dollars be in any event sold for less than par including Interest thereon to the time of sale.\n        4th. That the proceeds of all sales of Stock be placed in the Treasury of the United States & forthwith applied to the payment of some part of the capital or principal of the public debt, now due or to become due in the course of the present year, to the Bank of the United States, the Bank of New York or the Creditors of the United States in Holland; and that in the application of the monies so placed in the Treasury, the Secretary of the Treasury have regard to the priorities already established by Law in favor of the Creditors respectively. All which is respectfully submitted by\n          Treasy DepartmtMay 31st 1796.\n          Olivr Wolcott JrSecy of the Treasy\n          Whereupon, it was resolved that this Board agree to the resolutions proposed in said Report and that a copy of this proceeding be laid before the President of the United States for the purpose of obtaining his consent & approbation to the opening of said Loan of Five millions of Dollars.\n            Timothy PickeringOliv. Wolcott JrCharles Lee.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0163", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the U.S. Senate, 1 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate\n          Gentlemen of the Senate:\n          United States June 1st 1796\n        I nominate the following persons for appointments in the Army of the United States.\n        John Wilkins of Pennsylvania to be Quarter Master General vice OHara resigned.\n        Joseph Philips, Surgeon\u2019s Mate in the First Sub Legion to be Surgeon of the third Sub Legion vice Heyward resigned.\n        David Davis to be Surgeons Mate in the first Sub Legion vice Philips promoted.\n        Cyrus Dart to be Surgeon\u2019s Mate in the Second Sub Legion vice Strong resigned.\n        Charles Rodes to be Surgeon\u2019s Mate in the Corps of Artillerists and Engineers vice Griffith resigned.\n        Samuel Osborne to be Surgeons Mate in the Corps of Artillerists and Engineers vice Brewster resigned.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0165", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Tobias Lear, 3 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lear, Tobias\n          My dear Sir,\n          Philadelphia 3d of June 1796\n        Your letter of the 30th Ulto was received yesterday. As I expect (nothing new & unforeseen happening to prevent it) to commence my journey for Mount Vernon in ten or twelve days, I shall enter into no details respecting any of the matters touched upon in your letter of the above date.\n        The chief design of my writing to you by this Post, is to inform you that your good Mother, and lovely son, arrived in this City on Tuesday evening; and left it yesterday about ten oclock on their way to the Federal City. Mrs Lear is very well, & Lincoln as sprightly as ever; but both disappointed at not meeting you here.\n        It was with great difficulty a Carriage could be procured to take her on; for it so happened, that Congress closed their Session yesterday\u2014that the members were struggling for, and bidding on each other for conveyances\u2014and your Mothers anxious desire to get to you, would not permit her to wait. At length, after some unavailing attempts, Mr Craik succeeded in getting a Carriage & pair of horses, which I hope will take her safe down.\n        I will send sugar, and some other things from hence. We are all as well as usual, and join in best wishes for you. with sincere esteem & regard I am Your Affectionate\n          Go: Washington\n          P.S. A Mr Prescot attends Mrs Lear & Lincoln. And it is not unlikely, as the weather is cool, but that they may be with you as soon as this letter as the Post does not travel on Sunday.\n          I did not know until after the Post had left the City on Wednesday, that Mrs Lear was in it, or expected; or you should have been advised of the circumstance by the Mail of that day.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0166", "content": "Title: To George Washington from David Lenox, 3 June 1796\nFrom: Lenox, David\nTo: Washington, George\n          Philada 3d June 1796\n        I have till now deferred making application to you on behalf of a Man to whom I conceive myself indebted for life, from the consideration that it might be improper while the fate of others were undetermined, as well as the consideration of troubling you during the Session of Congress.\n        The Person Sir who is the object of my addressing you, is a certain Benjamin Parkinson who was concerned in the late Insurrection in the Western Counties of Pennsylvania, this Man at the evident risque of his life, threw himself between me and a Banditti when they had presented their Riffles at only a few yards distance and would inevitably have destroyed me but for his interference, if proof of the circumstance should be wanting I refer to Colonel Presley Nevill who was with me at the time, as well as evidence produced on the trials of the Insurgents in the possession of the District Attorney. Circumstanced as I am Sir I need only appeal to your own breast where I am confident I should stand convicted were I to omit doing every thing in my power to obtain this mans pardon. I therefore now step forward to solicit it, I solicit it Sir as (at the time) holding an Office under Government, and I humbly solicit it from the motive of gratitude to the Man, firmly believing that he is convinced of his error & will in future conduct himself as a good Citizen. I beg leave only to add that my request is unsolicited by any person whatever, and I fond[l]y hope I shall not be disappointed in obtaining this act of justice to myself. With the greatest respect I am Sir Your Most Obedt Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0169", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 4 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: McHenry, James\n        If it is not too late for Fenno\u2019s Paper of this Afternoon, an extract from Chapins letter, respecting the removal of the artillery, Stores &ca from Niagara, to the other side of the River (British\nside) might afford pleasing information. I presume there can be no doubt of its authenticity. Yrs always", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0170", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., 5 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Dandridge, Bartholomew Jr.\n          Philadelphia 5th June 1796\n        The letter you left with Mr Kitt\u2014the one you wrote from Shippensburgh and another from Greenbriar Court house dated the 10th Ulto have all been recd.\n        It can excite no \u27e8illegible t\u27e9hat the \u27e8illegible\u27e9, the manner, and other cir\u27e8cumstanc\u27e9es attending your departure from this place, was not more displeasing than it was surprising: not only to me, but to every one else; and opened the door for variety of conjectures; some of them you may be sure not favorable; and more or less s\u27e8o\u27e9 according to the knowledge People had of you. All this is natural, and what you must have made your mind up for.\n        For myself, as I always entertained a good opinion of your honor and honesty, vexation at being left in the manner I was in the midst of busy, and perplexing scenes, without a moments intimation of the event, or knowing where to apply for aid, was all the impression, injurious to you, that it made upon me.\n        It was sometime and after much enquiry for a character in whose discretion and \u27e8a\u27e9ttachment I could place entire confidence, before Mr Washington Craik (who had returned to Virginia) occurred to me. He is now with me as my private Secretary, & will, I expect Continue in that Office \u27e8illegible\u27e9 remain in the Administration of the government.\n        You may remember that the Suggestion in your letter from Greenbrier, with respect to the mode of dividing and disposing of my lands on the \u27e8we\u27e9stern waters is an event which I told\nyou would be likely to happen, and might find you employment, after your Services in the line you \u27e8were\u27e9 was terminated; but that I wanted first to try if I could not make a sale of them in the \u27e8illegible\u27e9. I must now wait till September, to see the result of my advertisemant, after which if offers to my liking have not come forward, I shall proceed to lay off and sell my lands on the Ohio and its waters in the manner you suggest; and am very well inclined to put the business into your hands, and allow you the profits arising from the management thereof, allowing a Commission upon the Sales, which is to embrace the expence of laying off the Lots. Yourself, which you may soon learn to do.\n        \u27e8If\u27e9 you remain in the mind you were, at the date of your letter of the 10th Ulto; which did not get to my hands until the 3d instant, it will be necessary for me to see, or at least to have a direct communication opened with you, on the first of September; that the business may be fully arranged, and a plan devised for the prosecution of it.\n        On Monday the 13th I expect to leave this City for Mount Vernon; but as well \u27e8as\u27e9 to meet the offers which may be made me, as to attend to the business of the Public (from which I cannot be absent longer) it is my intention to return to this place again (alone) before the day above mentioned. By, or before which, give me all the information you can, in writing, if I shd not see you, of the value of my lands, or rather, from what you can collect from others, what they would sell for, divided into any sized lots to suit the purchasers.\n        Your Aunt and Washington join me in affectionate regard for you, and I am Your sincere friend\n          Go: Washington\n          P.S. As it may be of Service to you, and \u27e8to me\u27e9 also, I enclose a print of my Advertisement.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0171", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gouverneur Morris, 5 June 1796\nFrom: Morris, Gouverneur\nTo: Washington, George\n        Private\n          My dear Sir\n        It is now some Time since I received your kind Letter of the 4 March accompanying a Copy of that which you did me the Honor to write on the 22d Decr. The Original of this last has never yet reached my Hands. On that to which it is principally a Reply I must give you a Clue which for sundry Reasons I could not send in due Season. It was written to bear the Inspection of Ld G\u2014\u2014 &ca &ca\u2014I did fully expect to have made my Reply to these Letters in Person but I am suddenly called on by some indispensible Circumstances to take a Journey into Switzerland and my Sense of Propriety induces me to make the long and inconvenient Circuit by Hamburg in Preference of the short cut thro France. There is a Clause in your Letter of the 22d Decr which begins thus \u201cTo this Catalogue may be added &c: &ca as also\u201d Now if the Parties there alluded to be not speedily removed it will be only because the Means of providing for them do not easily present themselves and they cannot with Propriety be turned adrift. I have recommended Englishmen as the most fitting Characters. I cannot write fully about this or indeed any Thing else having hardly a Moment to myself and not knowing how this Letter is to go.\n        I send herewith one to the Secretary of State which I leave open and pray you my dear Sir to cast your Eye over it then all will be put right if it be not so already. I must not close this Letter however short without the tedious Repetition how important I conceive it to be that you should continue in Office. Would you require a very strong Reason indeed? You Yourself shall give\nit from the last four Months of our History, and I will freely consent to your Retirement when you can designate a Successor who will truly hold the Sentiments and pursue the Conduct mentioned in yours of Decr. But even then you ought to consider that it is not given to every Man to bend the Bow of Ulysses, whatever may be his Wishes or Intentions. And you well know that Weight of Character is in arduous Circumstances quite as useful as Strength of Mind. God grant you long Life and Good Health; the Rest you will take Care of Farewell\u2014I am ever yours\n          Gouvr Morris", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0172", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 5 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n          Mr Pearce,\n          Philadelphia 5th June 1796.\n        Since my last I have received your letters of the 22d & 29th of last Month\u2014The first came to hand on Tuesday, the other on Saturday, as usual.\n        On Wednesday last Congress closed their Session; but there is yet a good deal for me to do, before I can leave the Seat of the Government. My present expectation however is, that I shall be able to do this on tomorrow week: but as this is not certain, and as I shall travel slow, to avoid what usually happens to me at this season\u2014that is\u2014killing, or knocking up a horse; and as\nwe shall, moreover, stay a day or two at the Federal City, it is not likely we shall arrive at Mount Vernon before the 20th, or 21st of this month.\n        In a few days after we get there, we shall be visited, I expect, by characters of distinction; I could wish therefore that the Gardens, Lawns, and every thing else in, and about the Houses, may be got in clean & nice order. If the Gardener needs aid, to accomplish as much of this as lyes within his line, let him have it; & let others rake, & scrape up all the trash, of every sort & kind about the houses, & in holes & corners and throw it (all I mean that will make dung) into the Stercorary and the rest into the gullied parts of the road, coming up to the House. And as the front gate of the Lawn (by the Ivies) is racked, and scarcely to be opened, I wish you would order a new one (like the old one) to be immediately made\u2014and that, with the new ones you have just got made, and all the boarding of every kind that was white before, to be painted white again. If Neal and my own people cannot make the front gate, abovementioned, get some one from Alexandria to do it\u2014provided he will set about & finish it immediately. This must be the way up to the House.\n        Let the Rooms in the Servants Hall, above & below, be well cleaned; and have the Beds & bedsteads therein put in order; after which have a good lock put on the door of the west room, above, and order Caroline, or whoever has the charge of those rooms, to suffer no person to sleep, or even to go in to it, without express orders from her Mistress or myself. Let exactly the same things be done with the Rooms over the Kitchen; as there will be a white Cook with us that will require one of them; and the other may also be wanted for some other Servants, or use\u2014it being likely, there will be a call for all these places and things. And I hope, especially as there is no Ice to keep fresh meats, that you will have an abundant supply for the demands that will probably be made thereon during our stay at home. And besides, will ascertain from the Butcher in Alexandria, the stated days on which Beef and Veal are killed; that we may know what dependence to place on him\u2014Tell the Gardener, I shall expect every thing that a Garden ought to produce, in the most ample manner.\n        There may be many other things necessary to be done, as well for appearance as use, that do not occur to me at this momt but\nas you can judge from what I have said, what my wishes are, I have no doubt but that you will contribute all you can to accomplish them; and give the whole as neat & clean an appearance as they are capable of.\n        About the time you were employing a joiner to do the North end of the House, I directed Venetian blinds to be made, and painted green, for all the windows on the West side of the House, & mentioned the manner in wch I thought it best to execute them: but have never been informed what, or whether any thing has been done in consequence of it. The omitting to give information of what has, or what cannot be done in consequen[ce] of such requests, often throws me into a disagreeable Suspence, and frequently occasions me to write often on the same subjects. I am equally ignorant whether the dormant windows are yet put into the stable, & Corn lofts; both of which, for the purpose of Air, is indispensably necessary; besides adding to the appearance of the building.\n        Take care to keep a sufficiency of Oats, and the best of your old Hay on hand. I shall have Eight or ten horses of my own with me, and there will be many others with visitors.\n        You had better, I conceive, get the midlings and ship-stuff off your hands at what they will fetch; as the weather is getting warm, & the flour may turn Sower. Unless you want the money for current expences, it might be sold on such a credit as to receive payment on the same day your demand upon Smith, for the other flour, will become due, so as to have the whole at once. This credit may enhance the price, and will be (if the money is not wanted for the purposes beforementioned) no disadvantage to me in giving it.\n        I hope, at your last shearing, there was a complete cull, & seperation of all the old, scabby & disordered Sheep. I do not know how to account for the weekly loss you sustain, in this species of Stock, unless it be by keeping such poor and diseased sheep in the flocks as contaminate others.\n        I have no doubt but that you will endeavor so to arrange matters, as to keep your grain, & Hay harvests from interfering as much as possible with each other; and this too without either suffering, by standing too long, if it can possibly be avoided. Begin the former as soon as it can be cut without loss.\n        If Miss Nelly Custis should apply to you for a Cart to Transport her Trunk and other things from Doctor Stuarts to Mount Vernon\u2014let it be sent as soon as applied for, and something to cover and secure the contents against Rain\u2014in case any should fall while they are on the Road.\n        I perceive Mrs Washington\u2019s Memm herewith sent contains nearly the same requests that are made in this letter\u2014but I send it notwithstanding. I wish you well and am Your friend\n          Go: Washington\n          P.S. Direct your next letter to me, to be left at the Post Office in Baltimore till called for. If I set off according to my present expectation, I shall, probably lodge in that Town on thursday Night; which is the Night the Mail of that day from Alexandria reaches that place.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0173", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Alexander White, 5 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: White, Alexander\n        (Private)\n          Philadelphia 5th June 1796\n        Your Letter of the 25th Ultimo from Martinsburgh, did, as you expected, come to my hands on the 3d instant; but not untill the Mail of that day was dispatched, consequently the Post of tomorrow will be the first, by which I can reply to the contents of it. I wish, very much indeed, that you could make it convenient, and agreeable to yourself, family & business; to remain in the City Commission; and that you would prosecute to the end, the good work you have begun. I sincerely believe that this is the wish of all who know you, and are true friends to that place; and very sorry indeed should I be, if the absence, and attention necessary for your private concerns (which Your Letter does not sufficiently define, to enable me to form a correct judgment) should be found incompatible with the duties which are expected from the Commissioners.\n        It is unnecessary, I am sure, for me to remark to you (on general ground, & reasoning) the necessity there is for the closest attention, & the most vigorous exertion of the Commissioners to push this work on: But independent of general considerations, a particular occurrance has happened, lately wch makes me, more than ever, wish you to devote as much time as possible to this business. It is this.\n        It is not entirely unknown to you: I believe that I have been hinting in pretty broad terms to your Colleagues, that I did not conceive that the trust reposed in them could be satisfactorily executed while they remained at a distance from the scene of action, and held periodical meetings only; & that, where there was inattention, or remissness in the head, it would be found to extend itself to all the Members; Not perceiving that these hints had all the effects that was intended. Finding from the discussion of the Guarantee Bill in Congress that serious charges were laid against the \u0153conomy in carrying on the business\u2014knowing that there was no way so effectual to prevent, or to correct errors while they were in embryo, as a close inspection into them while they were in a progressive state; and no measure so likely to remove jealousies as a residence of the Commissioners in the City I did on the 22d ulto when acknowledging the receipt of\ntheir Letters of the 13th & 14th relative to the loan in Holland, give it as my decided opinion to that Board, that this event, for the reasons I assigned, ought to take place; and the nearer they could fix, conveniently, to the principal theatre, the more agreeable it would be.\n        Thus much happened before I receivd any advice of what was transacting in the City; but on the 1st instant was handed to me an Address from the Proprietors thereof, dated the 24th preceeding, requesting me to do what I had actually done, and which I find is not at all pleasing to Mr Scott. How it may be to Doctor Thornton I know not, having heard nothing from him on the Subject.\n        I have given you these details (in a private letter) that you may see at one view what my situation & wishes are; and the necessity there is for my preserving consistency\u2014at least in a degree. I shall touch upon no other parts of your letter, at this time; but that you may have a dble chance of receiving these sentiments soon, this letter shall be forwarded to Winchester, and a duplicate lodged in the Post Office in Washington, that if you miss the first, the other may be found there on your arrival.\n        On other subjects I will converse with you when we meet in the Federal City, where it is probable I shall be about the 18th instant, if nothing (at present unforeseen) happens to prevent it. With sincere esteem & regard I am\u2014Dear Sir Your Obedient Servt\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0174", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Deakins, Jr., 6 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Deakins, William Jr.\n          Philadelphia 6th June 1796\n        Your letter of the 27th Ulto has been duly received. Before I knew, or had heard of any movement in the Federal City, among the Proprietors thereof, I had, in answering some dispatches\nfrom the Commissioners, given it to them as my clear and decided opinion, that those who were entrusted with the affairs of the City ought to be residents thereof. It is & has always been my opinion. It was the principle upon which the new establishment, and compensation took place; and what I have always expected would happen, as soon as accomodations could be provided. To assign all the reasons for this opinion, which have weight in my mind, would run me into prolixity, unnecessarily; as few of them can have escap\u2019d a reflecting man. One however, you may recollect I brought to your view upon a former occasion; when you suggested a residant of George Town for a Commissioner. although that case may not apply quite as strongly to any \u27e8of\u27e9 the present commissioners, yet it does apply, and in that degree, is injurious; as you see by the effects, & the complaints.\n        The time in which a great deal is to be done, is short. In the discussion of the Guarantee Bill, all the Faupaus which have been committed\u2014all the neglects, inattentions, and want of the close & constant scrutiny of those to whom the business was intrusted, have undergone severe animadversion. It has been said, that if the Commissioners, & those who had been receiving compensations from the public, had been on the spot, the abuses which the principal building had sustained could not have happened\u2014that they would have perciev\u2019d the errors in their origin, & would have correct\u2019d them, as fast as they arose. In a word, that there can be no \u0153conomy without a close inspection, nor a close inspection by men at a distance, &ca &ca\u2014Knowing these things as I do; and how much depends upon execution, it behoves me, while I have any thing to do in the business, to attend to measures and not merely to the convenien\u27e8ces of\u27e9 those who are to execute them. If the two can be blended, it is well\u2014but the first is, & must be, the primary consideration.\n        Nothing, pointing directly to yourself (Office I mean) has been said further, than while the Agents, and principal Officers of the City reside out of it & in G. Town, the attraction is where it ought not to be, were the interest of the former, and the accomodation of Congress (when the Government moves to it) as they ought, to be the primary object. I write in haste, the Post hour being at hand, but can assure you that I am\u2014Sir Yr Obedient Servt\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0175", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 6 June 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State June 6. 1796.\n        The inclosed papers were sent to me by the Secretary of the Treasury. The wrapper, on which is written the opinion of Mr Harrison, the Auditor, gives a concise & just statement of the case on which John Skinner Esqr. late Marshall of North Carolina founds his claim of compensation. His demand is for 900 dollars, being a commission of three per cent on 30,000 dollars, the sum illegally taken from a Spanish vessel. The Secretary of the Treasury thinks a commission of 1\u00bd \u214ccent sufficient: I am of the same opinion. Had the sum been under adjudication in court, & condemned, the Marshall would have been intitled to his 3 \u214ccent, for receiving & paying over. But altho\u2019 the money was seized by the Collector of the Customs, as having been illicitly landed, yet it is not to be imagined that it could have been condemned; the Spanish vessel from which it was so illicitly taken & landed, having been captured by a French privateer unlawfully fitted out; and therefore the landing the money can be considered only in the predicament of money or goods so landed by pirates or robbers, whose unlawful acts ought not to prejudice the rightful owners of the property. I presume then that if the case had been brought before the proper judge, he would have acquitted the money seized & ordered it to be restored. In this event, the judge, agreeably to another clause of the same act of Congress, would have determined what compensation should have been allowed to the Marshall for the \u201ccustody\u201d of the money: and it appears improbable that he would have allowed more than one and a half per cent, at which rate his compensation would amount to 450 dollars.\n        The Deputy Marshall had the actual custody of the money, and\nby his own affidavit has received \u201c198 dollars for his particular expences & trouble in guarding & taking care of the same.\u201d\n        If the compensation proposed be approved of by the President, I will pay it, charging the same to the fund appropriated for the contingent expences of government. All which is respectfully submitted.\n          Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0176", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Jacques-Philippe-Auguste Dursus, 7 June 1796\nFrom: Dursus, Jacques-Philippe-Auguste\nTo: Washington, George\n            Mr President\n            Brunswick [Germany] 7th June 1796\n          The honor I had to serve under your Command during the Campaign of 1780, 1781 & 1782, the misfortunes which oppress me are the titles on which I dare claim the kindness of your Excellency. Having left France my Country almost five years since, and having a very faint hope at least a very remote one of ever being able to return, I desire very much to live in a Country to the Government of which the confidence of the People & their respect for your virtues have called your Excellency. fully convinced of your generous sensibility, I dare flatter myself that you will willingly afford some assistance to an unfortunate Gentleman who is upon the brink of experiencing the horrors\nof the most dreadful misery. Your Excellency deign to assist me with your kindness since I had the honor to dine with you & to be presented to you after the siege of York where I had been wounded by the late Marquis de Chatellux then major General of the Army. I pray you to permit me to lay before you my condition during the Revolution in France & my conduct since that unhappy epoch.\n          Having entered at the age of sixteen years in quality of second Lieutenant in the service of his most Christian Majesty in 1774 in the Regiment of Infantry called Soissonnois I performed with this Regiment the Campaign which Rochambeau did under the command of your Excellency. on my return to France I obtained in 1784 the grade of Captain in this Regiment which I did not quit until the arrestation of king Lewis the sixteenth & the suspension of the exercise of Royalty, I went at that epoch to join the Army which had been collected by the Princes his Brothers & I served under their Command the Campaign of 1792 since that epoch I have served no more. and I have lived successively in England the Netherlands & Germany. I could prove to your Excellency by my Commissions Certificates & passports the truth of all that I have the honor to relate to you, and these are the proofs which I cannot annex to my letter, since these titles are indispensibly necessary to me & which it is impossible for me to part with, that I dare implore your Excellency to grant the permission which I have the honor to ask of him to be able to live in the United States, to solicit your kindness to provide me a place in the Troops, or if that is impossible some other employment which will enable me to live, & which you shall judge proper, being deprived of all my fortune by the Revolution I shall bring in America nothing more than a profound respect for the Laws of the Country & for the Chief of the Government & my great desire of becoming useful to my new Country.\n          After having laid before your Excellency what was my condition during the Revolution of France & what has been my conduct since my emigration, I presume to repeat again my prayer that you will grant me your protection & your kindness & I assure you of my lively & respectful acknowledgement. I am with profound respect Your Excellency\u2019s very hble & very Obdt Servant\n            DursusCaptain in the service ofhis most Christian Majesty\n          Persuaded that your Excellency will willingly honor me with an answer, I pray you earnestly to remit it to Mr f. A. Muhlemberg Esqr. to be forwarded to Mr William Wilmerding of Brunswick who will send it to me.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0177", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Robert McLean, 7 June 1796\nFrom: McLean, Robert\nTo: Washington, George\n          Union Town [Pa.] 7th June 179[6]\n        I have lately been down the Ohio River and among others have taken a View of a tract of your Land Situate on the East Side of the Ohio River above Bakers Station and below Grave Creek Generally known by the Round Bottom\u2014I have a desire to become a purchaser\u2014And would beg the favour of you, Sir to inform me as soon as convenient \u201cby Letter directed to the Care of Alexander MClean of Union Town Esquire\u201d the lowest terms you will accept of\u2014I am interested in the information, as I wish to turn my Eye to another object if I cannot acceede to your terms. I am Sir with due Regard your Excellencies most Obt Humble Servant\n          Robert MClean\n          P.S. I live on Monongahela River about 3 Miles below the Mouth of Georges Creek.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0178", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 8 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Knox, Henry\n          My dear Sir,\n          Philadelphia 8th June 1796\n        I would not let Mr Bingham (who says he is about to visit you) depart without acknowledging the receipt of sevl letters from you; and offering Mrs Knox & yourself my sincere condolence on your late heavy loss. Great, and trying as it must be to your sensibility, I am persuaded after the first severe pangs are over you both possess fortitude enough to view the event as the dispensation of Providence, and will submit to its decrees with Philosophical resignation.\n        The footing on which you placed the non-acceptance of the Commission for ascertaining the true St Croix, was such, as to leave no hope of your embarking in that undertaking after the arrival of the Commissioner from Great Britain, and his readiness to proceed therein was announced. I therefore nominated, and Mr Howell (of Rhode Island) by the advice & consent of the Senate, is appointed in your place; and Mr Sullivan is designated to prepare the business for them.\n        Mr Bingham is so well versed in the Politics of this place, and South of it. & so well acquainted with all the movements in both houses of Congress, that it would be a work of supererogation in me, to give you the details. To him then I refer you, for such relations as are interesting.\n        On Monday next, if not prevented by occurrances yet unforeseen, I shall commence my Journey for Mt Vernon; but shall, myself, be returned to this City again before the first of September; not chusing to be longer absent from the Seat of Government. My best wishes, in which Mrs Washington unites, are tendered to Mrs Knox, your self & family; and with sincere friendship, and affectionate regard, I am always Yours\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0179-0001", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 8 June 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          The Secretary of State has examined with as much attention as the time would permit, the several acts of the late session of Congress, & noted the points requiring the acts or directions of the President of the U. States, which notes are respectfully laid before him.\n          The Secretary also presents the draught of instructions for the person who is to go to London to aid the Commissioners on spoliations. Mr Samuel Cabot was contemplated as the Agent.\nMr FitzSimons & the Committee of Merchants have seen his recommendations\u2014they know of no person whom they can recommend in preference: Mr FitzSimons entirely approves of him, & thinks it fortunate that he will undertake.\n            T. Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0179-0002", "content": "Title: Enclosure: Acts Requiring Presidential Action, c.8 June 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: \n          Act may 17th 1796\u2014empowers the President to appoint Superintendants of the Light house to be erected on Cape Cod.\n          Act may 17th 1796\u2014empowers the President to approve of the locations of certain lands granted to Ebenezer Zane.\n          Act may 18th 1796, empowers the President to appoint a Surveyor General\u2014also an agent to join in the direction of the sales of land to be made at Pittsburg\u2014The President to fix the compensation of the Assistant Surveyors, Chain Carriers and axe men, not to exceed in the whole 3 dollars per mile.\n          Act may 19th 1796, Boundary line according to treaties with the Indians to be marked under direction of the President\u2014a Superintendant to be appointed for granting licences to reside among the indians\u2014Sect. 7th Temporary agents to reside among them.\n          Act may 27th 1796, The President to give directions to certain officers concerning Quarantine.\n          act may 28th 1796, directs the president to appoint two or more agents concerning Seamen.\n          act 1 June 1796, form of Passports for ships to be approved by the President.\n          act 28th may 1796, President to make allowance of compensation to inspectors relative to duties on Carriages.\n          act 31 may\u2014President empowered to borrow 324,539 dollars 6 cents.\n          act 31 may President to approve of the loan of 5 millions of dollars.\n          no. 45\u2014June 1. Passports for Ships & vessels\u2014form to be approved by the President.\n          no. 46\u2014regulating grants of land &c. to the Moravians.\n          47. admission of the State of Tennessee.\n          48\u2014making appropriation to satisfy certain demands attending the late insurrection &c.\n          50\u2014further appropriations for 96.\n          51\u2014President to borrow 650,000 dollars.\n          52\u2014relief to owners of Stills.\n          53\u2014to indemnify the estate of the late Genl Greene.\n          No. 13. Date April 18. Agents for Indian Trading Houses.\n          No. 12. date Apl 8. The President to approve of the Contract for building a light house on Baker\u2019s Island, near Salem.\n          No. 14. April 20. The president to authorize to be sold such of the perishable materials provided for the frigates as shall not be wanted to complete three of them\u2014& other materials to be safely kept for further use.\n          No. 21. May 6. To direct the loan for the city of Washington.\n          No. 22. May 6th. To authorize the building or purchasing of revenue cutters; & to order to be sold such as are unfit for service.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0180", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 9 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n          Philadelphia 9th June 1796\n        The Instructions for Mr King, herewith returned, appear to me to be proper. To them, however, I think might be added a desire that he should attempt to remove any doubts which may arise in the construction of the [\u2003] article relative to our Trade \u27e8with\u27e9 the East Indies; and to get relieved if it be practicable from the restrictions on our Vessels going from thence with their Cargoes to China.\n        I shall not impede the forwarding the other Instructions to the Accou[n]tant, for the British Spoliations\u2014as they are now drawn. At the sametime I cannot forbear observing that I think \u00a3500 St\u27e8erling\u27e9 would have been ample compensation for such a character.\n        1st Because no such Officer was conceiv\u27e8ed n\u27e9ecessary by the\nNe\u27e8goc\u27e9iators of the Treaty; nor provided for in the estimate to Congress.\n        2d Because among other inducements to the appointment of Mr Gore\u2014his supposed knowledge of Commerce was one (a legal & Commercial character being deemed necessary for the purposes of the Commission)\u2014Why then it may be asked, seek for the latter character in an Accountant of new creation uncontemplated by the Treaty? and this question more than probable will be accompanied with the charge of favouritism to the wishes of the person designated and his friends\u2014and\u2014\n        4th Because our Secretaries of Legation are not allowed half what is proposed to be given as compensation to this Accountant.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0183", "content": "Title: From George Washington to George Mathews, 10 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Mathews, George\n          Philada 10th June 1796\n        The best, indeed the only excuse I can make for having so long delayed complying with the request of your favor written the 7th of March is, that when it came to hand (which was not speedily after its date) the business of the session pressed so heavily on me, that I had but little leisure for other attentions; and by laying it by, to be taken up at a more convenient moment, it, in a jumble with other papers was overlooked, until a revision, after the adjournment took place, brought it to view again.\n        This apology I thought due to you, at the same time that it\ngives me another occasion to express my good wishes towards you, & regret that any circumstances should arise that have, even for a moment, encouraged the idea of relinquishing your country forever. With great esteem & regard I am Dr Sir &c.\n          G: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0184", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Matthew McAllister, 10 June 1796\nFrom: McAllister, Matthew\nTo: Washington, George\n          Savannah June 10th 1796.\n        I have reason to suppose the Judge of this District purposes resigning provided a more eligible situation shall present itself.\n        Should that event take place, or any other by which the office he holds may become vacant, I beg leave to suggest my inclination to succeed him, in case it shall meet your approbation.\n        This intimation, Sir, would certainly have been withheld but from a conjecture that it may have been suggested I do not wish to hold that Appointment even should I have been considered competent to the duties of it.\n        My inclination in this respect has not been mentioned to any of the Gentlemen who represent this State in Congress\u2014it is therefore the more probable some other person may be recommended to nomination\u2014At the same time I flatter myself that none of the Gentln would do more than urge his particular friend.\n        If necessary Sir, I must beg leave to refer you to the Judges of the Supreme Court of the United States who have had occasional opportunities of forming opinions in regard to my fitness or otherwise for the Office\u2014to none of whom nor to any person in Congress have I communicated my present desire. With sentiments of the highest respect and regard, I have the honor to be Sir Your most obedient Servant\n          Matthew McAllister", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0185-0001", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 10 June 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          This inclosed letter has been procured by Dr Williamson who knows the hand writing. It is written by a Msr Cole Montflorence, a french man who held a commission under the State of North Carolina early in the revolution war.\n          The letter to Governor Blount by the same person I understand is gone to Tenessee.\n          It would seem that Montflorence had his information at Paris.\nThe reflexions which he makes upon it appear however to be his own.\n          It may be well enough to have the hand writing compared with any letters that may be in the Secy of States office from Monroe, notwithstanding its supposed resemblance to Montflorences. The Secy can return it to me. My fever is increasing. With great respect I have the honor to be Sir your obt\n            James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0185-0002", "content": "Title: Enclosure: James Cole Mountflorence to Thomas Blount, 8 March 1796\nFrom: Mountflorence, James Cole\nTo: Blount, Thomas\n            Bordeaux [France] 8th March 96\n          This Government is much displeased with Mr Jay\u2019s treaty, and it is confidentially reported that Mr Adet is recalled, that Colo. Vincent who was emploied last year by the president for the fortification of New-York is to replace him\u2014he is to sail with the fleet bound to the West India, that he is to demand preremptorily a new treaty between the United States & france, or a Rejection of the Treaty with England, that he is not to negociate, but to give only fifteen Days for an explicit answer, and on a Refusal from our Government to leave immediately Philadelphia & repair to the Islands, from whence it is supposed that hostilities will immediately be directed against us\u2014I think it my duty to give you those important and alarming Informations, that you may make Such \u27e8use\u27e9 of them as you may think proper for the Interest of our Country, I will observe tho, that notwithstanding that I candidly believe that such are the present Sentiments of the Directory, yet as their politics have been constantly wandering, they may adopt other measures before the Sailing of the fleet; for I cannot conceive it to be the Interest of france especially at this Juncture to commence hostilities with us; they could get\nnothing by it, & the Consequence would be the immediate loss of all their Colonies, Strengthening the British forces in the Islands Increasing the British Interest in the United States, alienating from france their partisans in our Country, diminishing their Supplies & Revenues, & add a vast number of brave and intelligent Seamen to the British fleet already too powerful for their Enemy\u2014these Considerations make me still hope that they will abate something from their above Intentions, Intentions which Every Symptom here does manifest\u2014It is proper however that our Government should be informed therewith and be on their Guard\u2014may I request you to mention me to Govr Blount to whom I will write by next Vessel very fully\u2014My best Respects to M. J. G. Blount. I have the Honor to be very respectfully Sir\n            N.B. William Blound recd a Letter from the same Gentleman dated at Paris 23rd March\u2014The Contents the same as above with the Addition That another Minister had been named after Col. Vincent and that he was not to come but a 3rd or 4th Nomination would be made. The Writer of the Letter had gone from Paris to Burdeaux immediately before he wrote the above Letter.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0187", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 10 June 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n            [Philadelphia, 10 June 1796]\n          I inclose draughts of instructions for Mr Trumbull and Colo. Talbot. The latter will not be able to sail for the West Indies until about the 20th of July. Reflecting on Mr Trumbull\u2019s situation in England, and the nature of the service to be performed there, I have not a doubt but that 2500 dollars will be a satisfactory compensation. I mentioned to his brother Jonathan \u00a3500. Sterling, who did not suggest that this would form an objection. Mr Trumbull in England, while ingaged in his agency, will still be in the way of his private pursuits. Colo. Talbot engages solely for the public service, in a more expensive scene, and where the risque of life is not inconsiderable. If the President approves of this distinction, the sums proposed in the instructions will remain. Then there will be 500 dollars left to answer any contingency, or to forward to one or the other agent as shall be needful.\n          I have recd this morning a design for our Mediterranean passports from Mr Blodget, which with a British passport accompany this. A draught of a letter to Mr Viar is also submitted. With the greatest respect I am sir your obt servt\n            Timothy Pickering\n          Montflorence, who wrote the anonymous letter, is the Chancellor to Skipwith, the Consul of the U.S. at Paris! we have his handwriting in the office. I have invited Capt. OBrien to dine to-morrow with the President, & will invite the Secretaries.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0188", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 10 June 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n          Treasury Department June 10th 1796\n        The Secretary of the Treasury has the honour most respectfully to represent to the President of the United States;\n        That by an Act entitled \u201cAn act making further provision for the expenses attending the intercourse of the United States with foreign Nations, and to continue in force the Act entitled \u2018an act providing the means of intercourse between the United States & foreign nations,[\u2019]\u201d passed on the 30th of May 1796, The President of the United States is empowered to borrow a sum not exceeding Three hundred & twenty four thousand five hundred & thirty nine dollars and six Cents at an interest not exceeding six per centum pr annum, reimbursable at the pleasure of the United States; & it is made lawful for the Bank of the United States to lend the same.\n        That by another Act entitled, \u201can act making appropriations for the support of the military & naval Establishments for the year one thousand seven hundred & ninety six,\u201d passed the first of June 1796, the President of the United States is empowered to borrow of the Bank of the United States which is authorised to lend the same, or of any body or bodies politic, person or persons, any sum or sums not exceeding in the whole, six hundred and fifty thousand Dollars at an interest not exceeding six prCent.\n        The Secretary begs leave further to represent that as the product of the ordinary revenue will be inadequate to the demands for the current service, he therefore requests the permission of the President to borrow the several sums specified in the said acts, and he accordingly transmits two forms of Powers for that purpose. All which is most respectfully submitted.\n          Olivr Wolcott JrSecy of the Treasy", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0191", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 12 June 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n            Sunday Evening [12 June 1796]\n        Reflecting on the proposed application to Mr Liston respecting our seamen impressed in the West Indies, I thought a more effectual mode than a conversation, would be to address him by letter. While in the country to-day, I draughted the inclosed for that purpose. I also sketched a letter to Mr Adet on the subject of the piratical privateer which has captured one of our ships, and in effect blocked up the Delaware. It is formed on the reports of the case\u2014the facts when ascertained will doubtless make alterations necessary. The sketch I will make legible to present to you in the morning, at as early an hour as will suit your convenience, after sun-rise. I am very respectfully, sir, your obt servant\n          T. Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0193", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Jeremiah Wadsworth, 12 June 1796\nFrom: Wadsworth, Jeremiah\nTo: Washington, George\n          Hartford June 12th 1796\n        Yesterday I purchased for you a Black Guelding Eight Years old fifteen hands high a good pacer both slow & fast. his trot not so good, but fast\u2014I wish I could say he was handsome but that rarely belongs to this breed, but he carries well & when moveing has a decent appearance\u2014he Cost one hundred & thirty Dollars. he has always been used to a plain snaffle Bit. I can every monday send him by a carefull Man who rides Post thro Litchfield to NewYork so as to arrive their on Wednesday. to that place you can send a Boy in the Stage with a Saddle & Bridle to ride him to you. I should send him tomorrow to be left at a stable just at the Ferry Stairs in New York to be delivered your order but fearing you may be absent from Philah. I shall keep him untill I hear from you\u2014if we live two or three Years I hope to furnish you with a perfect Narraganset as I have two fine Mare Colts one of which when old enough you shall have. I am with great sincerity your most obedient Humble Servant\n          Jere. Wadsworth", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0195", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Anne Louise DuBarry, 13 June 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: DuBarry, Anne Louise\nTo: Washington, George\n        Letter not found: from Anne Louise DuBarry, 13 June 1796. DuBarry wrote GW on 28 July: \u201cthe 13th of Last month I had the honour of writing to you\u201d (see GW to George Lewis, 28 April, n.2).", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0196", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Abijah Hart, 13 June 1796\nFrom: Hart, Abijah\nTo: Washington, George\n        Having some years ago addressed you through my friend Mr Hillhouse on the Mint establishment without success, I feel a diffidence now; which nothing but the hope of serving you could surmount\u2014I have a Ship now loading for Lisbon, which will sail on sunday next\u2014My Brother Wm Hart will go out in her on business for me\u2014he has a Letter of Introduction from Dr Dwight President of Yale College, to the American Minister Col. Humphreys\u2014& is a young man who will be happy to convey any Commands to that Minister, as he will feel himself much honoured by such an Introduction from the President of the United States. I am &c.\n          Abijah Hart", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0197", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 13 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\n          Philadelphia 13th June 1796\n        Enclosed you have Bank Bills to the amount of Five hundred Dollars. From this fund I pray you to furnish Mr Frederick Kitt, my Household Steward with weekly sums as his occasions require\u2014say from th[i]rty to 40 dollars according to circumstances. It will enable you also to pay the duties on two Pipes of Wine wch I understand is in the Ganges for and on my Acct. As this Wine is in dble cases\u2014I had rather, as it will be to be removed again pay for the whole quantity, the inner Pipes originally contained, than have them uncased for the purpose of measuring\nthe pres[en]t cont[en]ts. With sincere esteem & regard I am\u2014always yrs\n          G. Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0199", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 14 June 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        I have the honour to lay before you the proceedings and sentence of a court-martial on Lieut. Simon Geddis, and several papers and letters connected therewith.\n        Lieut. Geddis having prayed for a new trial, I shall wave any\nremarks upon his case, and confine myself to the reasons which favour such an application.\n        It is declared, in the articles of war, vz. Art. 1. for the administration of justice, that, \u201cGeneral courts-martial may consist of any number of commissioned officers from five to thirteen, inclusively; but they shall not consist of less than thirteen where that number can be convened without manifest injury to the service.\u201d\n        This article discovers great solicitude that general courts-martial should consist of the highest number of members it prescribes; and implies very strongly, that every number inclusively between five and thirteen, is to be sought for, and prefered to that of five. It does more. It expresly precludes five members from being considered as a constitutional general court-martial, whenever thirteen can be convened, without manifest injury to the service.\n        A general court martial therefore, which should consist of five members only, could not be held to be legal, unless it should be evident that more members could not have been added, so as to approach it to thirteen without manifest injury to the service.\n        Viewing the question in this aspect, it might be proper, that the fact should be ascertained, whether the situation of the garrison or corps at West-Point, (at the time when the court tried Lt Geddis) was such, as to render a limitation of its members to five an indispensible measure.\n        If upon inquiry it should emerge, that the situation of things at that time would have admitted of the higher number, or a nearer approach to the highest, a new trial may be considered as a necessary consequence.\n        I would submit therefore the propriety of returning the proceedings to the commandant of the corps at West Point, with instructions to make the necessary investigation, and grant a new trial, if it should appear to him, that a greater number of members than five might have been convened at that time, \u201cwithout manifest injury to the service.[\u201d] I have the honour to be with the greatest respect, Sir your most obt st\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0200", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 15 June 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        Since closing my letter of yesterday I have received the annexed from Majr Cushing whom I had previously directed to join the army.\n        If he has made a fair statement of his case, some indulgence may be proper. If on the contrary, he has misrepresented it, he is unworthy of any and unfit for a soldier. At any rate, I presume that he has motives and reasons which he has not expressed.\n        Should you direct me to indulge him would it not be right to limit his furlough. This while it would give him an opportunity to reestablish his health, would oblige him on its expiration, either to a performance of his military duties at camp, or a resignation, and at the same time, avoid any appearance of rigour.\n        I expect in a few days to have the scheme for the new arrangement of the army ready to lay before you.\n        As it is no ways necessary that this letter should be made a record of, I take the liberty to hope that you & Mrs Washington got safe to Mount Vernon and feel a little repose. May you always be happy is the sincere wish of Sir your most respectful & ob. st\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0201", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, c.16 June 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n        I have received information this morning of a nature which I think you ought to receive without delay\u2014A Mr Le Guen, a Frenchman, a client of mine and in whom I have inspired confidence, and who is apparently a discreet and decent man, called on me this morning to consult me on the expediency of his becoming naturalized, in order that certain events between France and the U. States might not prejudice him in a suit which I am directed to bring for him for a value of 160,000 Dollars\u2014I asked him what the events to which he alluded were\u2014He made me the following reply under the strictest injunctions of confidence. \u201cI have seen a letter from St Thonax to Mr Labagarde of this City\u2014informing him that a plan was adopted to seize all American vessels carrying to any English Port provisions of any kind to conduct them into some French Port, if found to be British property to condemn them, if American, to take them on the accountability of the Government\u2014adding that he must not thence infer that it was the intention to make war upon the U. States\u2014but it was with a view to retaliate the conduct of Great Britain, to keep supplies from her, and to obtain them for themselves, and was also bottomed on some political motives not necessary to be explained. That it was also in contemplation when Admiral Richery arrived, if the Ships could be spared to send five sail of the line to this Country.\u201d Fearing he said that this might produce a rupture between the two Countries he had called to consult me on the subject &c.\n        I asked his permission to make the communication to you\u2014He gave me leave to do it, but with the absolute condition that the knowlege of names was on no account to go beyond you and myself. I must therefore request Sir that this condition be exactly observed\u2014He has promised me further information.\n        I believe the information, as well because the source of it under all the circumstances engages my confidence, as because the thing appears in itself probable\u2014France wants supplies and she has not the means of paying & our Merchants have done creditting.\n        It becomes very material that the real situation should as soon\nas possible be ascertained & that the Merchants should know on what they have to depend. They expect that the Government will ask an explanation of Mr Adet & that in some proper way the result will be made known.\n        It seems to become more and more urgent that the U. States should have some faithful organ near the French Government to explain their real views and ascertain those of the French\u2014It is all important that the people should be satisfied that the Government has made every exertion to avert Rupture as early as possible. Most respectfully & Affect. I have the honor to be Sir Yr Obed. serv.\n          A. Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0202", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Ellsworth, 19 June 1796\nFrom: Ellsworth, Oliver\nTo: Washington, George\n        I had the misfortune to pass you & Mrs Washington without knowing it. You will be pleased, however, to accept of my wishes that your present retreat may be undisturbed, and that you may know, for a few days at least, how much more happifying it is to converse with the works of nature than with the wiles of man. In the mean time I believe you may rest assured that the publick mind, as well Southward as elsewhere, is pretty tranquil, and much more so than it would have been had our Country been dishonored and exposed by a violation of her faith. But one game more of the present System remains, and that respects the next quadrennial election, and is to be played only on condition that the electors are restrained in the objects of th[e]ir choice. I have the honor to be Sir, with the highest respect Your most obedient and most humble Servt\n          Oliver Ellsworth", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0204", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 20 June 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n            Philadelphia June 20th 1796.\n          The enclosed Letters have been received by me & the Secretary of State in consequence of the death of Mr Gorham, supervisor of Massachusetts. The Inspectors of Surveys are John Frothingham of the province of Maine, Jonathan Jackson of Newburyport & Leonard Jarvis of Boston. The two last with Mr Davis the present Comptroller are mentioned as Candidates.\n          Mr Jarvis\u2019s application does not appear to be supported; he is said to be much engaged in land speculations; his political principles are opposed to the administration of the Government, & the manner in which he has executed the office of Inspector, though not censurable so far as has come to my knowledge, has not indicated extraordinary zeal or ability. Mr Davis or Mr Jackson would I have no doubt, either of them, do justice to the appointment, & either of the persons would be free from any public objection\u2014The appointment would suit Mr Davis who proposes to remove to Boston: Mr Jackson\u2019s claims are however of a peculiar nature. he has served long in the same department, & much of the time for a moderate compensation. the degree of order which has existed in the Revenue Department in the District of Massachusetts is much owing to his exertions. the office now vacant seems therefore to be a just object of expectation by him, and a proper reward of his merit. The force of Mr Jackson\u2019s claims are fairly admitted by Mr Davis, and though, as before mentioned the office in itself would be desirable, yet he feels a delicacy in being the Competition of Mr Jackson.\n          In case the President should appoint Mr Jackson to be supervisor\u2014Genl John Brooks & Leonard Vassal Berland are offered as candidates for the office of Inspector. I am not\npersonally acquainted with the qualifications of these gentlemen; but from the enclosed recommendations it would appear that either of them would discharge the office with diligence & ability.\n          If Genl Brooks shall be appointed Inspector, Colo. Saml Bradford is warmly recommended as a proper character to fill the office of Marshal.\n          In consequence of the recommendation of Colo. Carrington, concurring with those laid before the President in support of Mr Kirby, a commission has issued in his favor as Collector for the District of Hampton.\n          Mr Steele has signified his acceptance of the office of Comptroller & will be here about the first of the ensuing month; he desires me to express to The President assurances of his gratitude, & of faithful exertions to merit the confidence reposed in him.\n          Since the President\u2019s absence I have carefully enquired into the circumstances of the capture of the Mount Vernon by a French privateer, & I have reason to believe this to be a true state of the case, which I communicate for the President\u2019s information. The ship was built by Mr Murgatroyd a respectable merchant of this City\u2014it was reported about the wharves some time since, that she was sold to Mr Duncanson. Mr Duncanson actually applied for a quantity of Rum to be shipped on board this vessel. On finding however that the vessel could not be registerred in his own name, as he had not been naturalized, some new arrangement took place with Mr Murgatroyd, in consequence of which the ship was to remain Mr M.\u2019s property, until her arrival in England. The Cargo, though shipped in the names of Messrs Willings & Francis, I strongly suspect to be Mr Duncanson\u2019s property, & that of other Englishmen not naturalized. It is suspected, tho\u2019 this is but suspicion, that even the ship is not at Mr Murgatroyd\u2019s risque. It is certain that he has underwritten two thousand Dollars in this same vessell. This however is a delicate point, because if the Ship is in whole or in part owned by british subjects, Mr Murgatroyd must have violated the Law, if not been guilty of perjury. His general character would strongly repel suspicions of this nature, yet I find he is suspected, even by candid men, of disingenuous conduct. I must therefore consider it as doubtful, to say no more, whether the Mount Vernon was not lawfully captured. In a public point of view, it would be happy if this were to appear to be the case, as it would\nobviate some suspicions of an unfriendly disposition on the part of France. The complexion of Bache\u2019s paper is calculated however to keep up alarm; it seems to be an object to be preparing the public mind for some new line of conduct, contrary to our Treaty & distressing to our Commerce. If Bache\u2019s paper is considered as indicating the designs of the French Government, we are to expect that british property on board our vessells will be captured, & that no englishmen will be considered as American citizens who have been naturalized since the commencement of the present war; perhaps they may proceed so far as to take all vessels bound to or from English ports. Of this however I perceive no indications except what are founded on reports which I cannot trace to any authentic source.\n          The Democrats, or at least some of them, have been predicting that the French would soon manifest their resentment against the Government. they say as we permit the british to take our vessels, the French have a right to adopt the same line of conduct. If the French Minister has powers for the purpose & can be influenced by our people, there are enough here who would rejoice in any misfortunes which wou\u2019d produce discontents, & thus render the Government odious. If another capture under circumstances less justifiable than those attending the Mount Vernon, were to happen, the case would in my opinion be serious\u2014even at present there are good reasons for apprehension. I have the honor to be &c.\n            Oliv: Wolcott Jr\n          Note. I am just informed that Mr Otis declines the appointment of District Attorney. On a former occasion I mentioned Mr Davis as a suitable character. I have no doubt but he would execute the office with ability & that the appointment wou\u2019d give satisfaction. I have however heard nothing from Boston, & I do not write in consequence of any intimation from Mr Davis at this time.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0206", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 22 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: McHenry, James\n          Mount Vernon 22d June 1796.\n        Your letters of the 14th & 15th instant have been received, but not in time to have been answered by the Post of Monday last; being then on my Journey to this place.\n        The ground on which you place the compliance with Lieutt Geddes\u2019s request, appears to be the best the nature of the case is now susceptible of; and for that purpose, I return the Proceedings of the Court Martial and other Papers relative thereto, that they may be forwarded to the Commandant at West point.\n        As Major Cushing founds his application for a furlough (among other reasons) on his having been on duty ever since he entered the service in the Year 1791\u2014and because he was permitted to visit his friends in the Eastern States I think he ought to be endulged in a reasonable absence from the Army; counting the time he has spent in Philadelphia as part of it\u2014although it was Not the place to have effected the last of the objects beforementioned; and surely not the best for restoring health, that had been debilitated by a severe intermittant last autumn; (another reason he has assigned in favor of the indulgence he solicits).\n        I forgot to obtain a certified copy from the Office of State (with the Seal annexed) of the Act Guaranteeing the loan for the use of the Federal City\u2014and another respecting (if I recollect rightly) the authenticity of the Commissioners appointment both of which were deemed necessary to accompany the Power of Attorney to Messrs Willinks. Let these be sent to me by the return Post, & I will cause triplicates to be forwarded from hence to those gentlemen in order to insure the arrival of one sett.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0207", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 22 June 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State June 22. 1796.\n        I have the honor to inclose a translation of Mr Adet\u2019s letter relative to the capture of the ship Mount Vernon. It seems to be studiously reserved. Besides the case in question, my letter invited a frank & candid communication of any information on the subject. Whatever orders the Directory may have given to their new Commissioners gone to St Domingo, relative to neutrals trading with the enemies of the French Republic, it is plain such new orders could not have been furnished to the privateer called the Flying Fish, which, from the information I have received, left St Domingo, and was even probably in the port of Philadelphia, when those Commissioners arrived in the West Indies.\n        We have heard of no more captures by the Flying Fish; and her capturing and retaining the ship Mount Vernon seems likely to have been done in expectation of eventually proving her to be\nBritish property, of which a number of circumstances, currently reported, induce the suspicion, in the minds of many people.\n        yesterday I received a letter from Mr DeWitt: He suspends his decision on the appointment to the office of surveyor general, until he should come to the seat of government, for which he proposed to set off by the next stage. His letter is dated the 14th at Albany.\n        Harrison Gray Otis who was appointed District Attorney for Massachusetts, declines accepting the office. Mr Wolcott says that Mr Davis, the Comptroller, would be gratified by an appointment to that office, when he quits the office of comptroller.\n        The death of Mr Gorham, supervisor of Massachusetts, presents Mr Jonathan Jackson, now an inspector in that department, as a candidate for the vacant office. He is so well known to you, either personally or by former recommendations of gentlemen who knew his worth, that no new testimonies in his favour seem necessary.\n        General John Brooks, the present marshall of that district, desires to succeed to Mr Jackson\u2019s office: and Colonel Samuel Bradford, now the deputy marshall, who resides at Boston, and has to universal acceptance, done nearly all the business of the Marshall, desires to succeed General Brooks. The general, as well as Judge Lowell, speaks of Colo. Bradford in terms of perfect approbation.\n        Captain OBrien remained here several days longer than I expected. When I pressed his departure last week I found he was waiting for some spare topmasts & yards which were making. Yesterday at one o\u2019clock I delivered him his dispatches for Colo. Humphreys, and he was to sail before the evening. Mr Humphreys the naval constructor and Mr Fox are making calculations & forming a draught of the proposed frigate, without which proper directions for building her cannot be given. The greater part of the timber sufficiently seasoned may probably be collected from the various public yards. I am with the highest respect sir your most obt servant\n          Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0208", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Dandridge, 23 June 1796\nFrom: Dandridge, John\nTo: Washington, George\n        I cannot help saying that I am sorry to be obliged sometimes to trespass on the little time that you have to spare from attending to the many cares which your public & private affairs must ingage you in; but I will not aggravate my trespass by a tedious apology.\n        Being about to remove some distance from where I now\nlive, & being possessed of the wives & children of Frederic and George two of the Slaves lent by you to my mother, they will be separated unless I can purchase them of you: I will therefore thank you to say whether I can have them & at what prices. They sold each at \u00a360\u2014under your execution & I suppose both about 31 or 32 years of age. A boy called Burwell now about 14 yrs old & another called pleasant about 11 or 12 yrs old have been raised by relations in my Family, & these I shall also be glad to purchase in the same way if you have no objections.\n        My mother shall not be injured by parting with them as I will take care to compensate her for the use of them. I am respectfully yr obt Sert\n          J. Dandridge", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0211", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Mifflin, 25 June 1796\nFrom: Mifflin, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n          Philadelphia 25. June 1796.\n        In consequence of a representation from the Inspectors of the Health-Office of the Port of Philadelphia, I have exercised the power vested in me by the laws of Pennsylvania, for imposing a Quarantine on all vessels arriving from the West-India Islands; and I have the honor to inclose a copy of my Proclamation on that subject for your Excellency\u2019s information. I am, Sir, with perfect respect, Your most obedt Hble Servt\n          Tho. Mifflin", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0212", "content": "Title: To George Washington from J. Basset, 26 June 1796\nFrom: Basset, J.\nTo: Washington, George\n          Mr President\n          London June the 26th 1796\n        a number of observers have already written in a satisfactory manner on North America. but most of those works are unfinished and uncomplete. Mr Ebeling my friend, one of the most distinguished learned men in Germany has undertaken in 1793 the geography and general history of the United-States. struck with the perfection and the powerful interest, which must be inspired by a work, which has already received in Europe the seal of approbation and esteem, I have imposed upon myself the duty of making it known in my own language. travelling and out of my country since ten years I wished to offer to it, in its misfortunes, a masterpiece of litterature, a pattern of administration, and the comforting picture of the prosperity of an Empire which under the Egid of a liberty holy and pure enjoys all the possible perfectibilities of the social contract. reason and justice have inspired me with the desire of dedicating to you sir the result of my work. the citizen who has so gloriously served his country with his sword, his learning, and the example of his civic virtues, will undoubtedly receive with kindness, the picture ingrand of that country so dear to his heart. the two first volumes of the work (which work will be composed of twelve volumes) will appear in the course of this summer. I will have the honor to forward you a printed Copy for yourself, Sir, and some others which I will present to the respectable body of legislators which you preside. I am with the greatest respect Mr President your most humble and just admirator,\n          signed basset.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0213", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 26 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Commissioners for the District of Columbia\n          Gentlemen\n          Mount Vernon 26th June 1796.\n        On thursday last I received your letter of the 22d instant, with its enclosures; and should have answered it by the Post of next day, but for many letters which I had to write by that Mail; which prevented my doing it till the succeeding one.\n        Approving of the proposed Suspension (until the first Monday of the year 1800) of the first and third articles of the terms and conditions declared on the 17 th day of October 1791 for regulating the Materials, and manner of buildings & improvements on the lots in the City; I have subscribed, & do now return the Instrument you forwarded to me, and give it as my opinion that the sooner, & more generally it is promulgated, the better, & more advantageous it will be.\n        I am glad to hear you have receivd fresh assurances of considerable pecuniary aids from Messrs Morris & Nicholson; and especially, that this assurance has occasioned no relaxation in your other endeavors to obtain a loan.\n        The strong impression I am under of the indispensable necessity of close attention, and great exertion to prepare for the reception of Congress by the year 1800, must, in addition to the propriety of the measure, apologize for my urging again, that those on whom the operation of the works materially depend, may be compelled to take their Stations convenient to the same. It cannot be tolerated, that the Superintendant, and others,\nwhose duty it is to see that every thing moves harmoniously as well as \u0153economically; and who to effect these ought always to be on the spot, to receive applications & to provide instantaneously for wants, should be at the distance of thre\u27e8e\u27e9 miles from the active scences of their employments. The convenience of those who receive compensations from the public, can not\u2014must not\u2014be the primary object of consideration; for sure I am (be the State & condition of the public buildings in the year 1800 what they may) there will not be accomodation for Congress at that period within such a distance of the Capitol as to induce a removal, if those whose particular duty it is to be there, and to set an example, hang aloof, and fix the attraction another way. The consequences of such a deficiency, not only to the City, but to George Town, & all the interest thereabouts, is too evident to stand in need of prediction.\n        If I am urgent on this point, it is from the clearest conviction of the utility of the measure; and not from a desire to incommode one person, or to gratify another. Of this I beg you to be persuaded; as also, that with great esteem & regard I am Gentlemen Your Obedient Servant\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0216", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Betty Washington Lewis, 26 June 1796\nFrom: Lewis, Betty Washington\nTo: Washington, George\n          My Dear Brother\n        Your letter of the 27th of April I receiv\u2019d and should have answerd it sooner but expecting you in dayly postpon\u2019d writing untill you arriv\u2019d at Mount Vernon, not hearing from you again on Harriots subject, I have been makeing all the enquirey I Could concerning Mr Parks that was in my power I have heard nothing to his disadvantage on the contrary he is respected by all his acquaintance he is A Constant Visitor here and I believe Harriots Affections are plac\u2019d intirely on him, and engag\u2019d so far as this if your consent can be obtaind.\n        Harriot begs you will pardon her not writing her self but hopes your being fully acquainted with her Sentiments Concerning Mr Parks will be some apology she is not well I believe her anxiety for fear of offending and not gaining your consent has Produc\u2019d this, your long Silence has given her much uneasiness.\n        My Dear Brother if you have any Mules for sale and can let me have one I will with pleasure pay you the Price of it I am under the necessity of purchaiseing A Work Nag and prefer A Mule.\n        Harriot Joines me in love and good Wishes for you and my sister Washington and beleive me to be your Affectte Sister\n          Betty Lewis", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0217", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Robert Lewis, 26 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lewis, Robert\n          Mount Vernon 26th June 1796\n        We arrived at this place on Monday last, where it is probable I shall remain until the middle of August, when public business will require my attendance in Philadelphia until towards the end of September. I shall then return to this place again, for Mrs Washington, with whom in the latter part of October I shall make my last journey, to close my public life the 4th of March; after which no consideration under heaven that I can foresee shall again withdraw me from the walks of private life.\n        I am sorry you have met with so much trouble & difficulty on account of the Land, I presumed I had an indisputable title to, on Accoceek Run; especially as by your information they appear to have been unavailing. It might be well, however, before you give the matter up, to examine my Mothers Will; to see if it is not bequeathed to me in that. I ought to have a letter from her, but I do not find it among my Papers at this place, declaratory of her intention of giving it to me; this was often done orally, but the truth is, conceiving it would come to me by descent, I never gave myself any trouble about the Conveyance. When I return to Philadelphia I will examine my Papers there, to see if the letter before alluded to can be found; but even this, with the knowledge of my Mother\u2019s intentions of giving it to me, could\nonly establish the equitable title; for the legal one wd still be where the Law, or Constitution of the State, has plac\u2019d it. The whole therefore depends upon whether there be any mention of the land in the Will.\n        I am sorry to hear of the death of Mrs Haney; and will very chearfully receive her daughter the moment I get settled at this place; sooner it would be impossible; because this house will be, as it has been, empty from the time we shall quit it in October, until my final establishment in the Spring. Such necessaries as she needs in the meantime may, however, be furnished her at my expence, and if it is inconvenient for you to retain her in your own house, let her be boarded in some respectable family, where her morals and good behaviour will be attended to; at my expence also. Let her want for nothing that is decent and proper; and if she remains in your family; I wish for the Girls sake, as well as for the use she may be of to your Aunt when she comes here, that Mrs Lewis would keep her industriously employed, always, and instructed in the care, and \u0153conomy of housekeeping.\n        There is another reason against her coming here until I am permanently fixed; and that is, that my house, I expect, will be crouded with company all the while we shall be at it, this Summer, as the Ministers of France, Great Britain and Portugal, in succession, intend to be here\u2014Besides other strangers.\n        My best wishes, to which your Aunts are united, are presented to yourself & Mrs Lewis\u2014and I remain Your sincere friend & Affecte Uncle\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0218", "content": "Title: From George Washington to George Lewis, 27 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lewis, George\n          Mt Vernon 27th June 1796\n        Supposing you are in Fredericksburgh, and not knowing where my Sister, or your Brother Howell is at present, I put the letters for them, and your brother Bob, under one cover to your care and would thank you for letting me know whether you have received them or not.\n        My best wishes attend Mrs Lewis & yourself in which your aunt joins me. I remain Your sincere friend & affecte Uncle\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0220", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 27 June 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          Philadelphia 27 June 1796.\n        I have the honour to inclose you Adjutant General Beckwiths answer to my dispach to Lord Dorchester of the 10th of last month.\n        I inclose, likewise, copy of the orders for the evacuation of the posts of Fort Miamis\u2014Detroit and Michilimackinac the originals of which will leave this to-morrow morning at 5 o\u2019clock by express.\n        Capn Lewis delivered the orders requiring the evacuation of Oswego & Niagara to Capn Bruff at Albany. With the greatest respect I have the honour to be Sir your most obt Servt\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0221", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Mifflin, 27 June 1796\nFrom: Mifflin, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n          Philadelphia June 27th 1796\n        I have the honor to inclose, for your Excellency\u2019s information, the copy of a Report from the Resident Physician of the Health Office of Philadelphia; and to request, that you will direct such co-operative measures, on the part of the Officers of the United States, as may effectually counteract the danger, which is apprehended from vessels holding an intercourse with the shores of New-Jersey, in evasion of the Quarantine prescribed under the authority of the laws of this State. I am, with perfect respect Sir Your Excellency\u2019s Most obedient humble Servant\n          Tho. Mifflin", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0222", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 27 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n          Mount Vernon 27th June 1796.\n        The Post of friday\u2014to Alexandria\u2014brought me your dispatches of the 22d instant.\n        Mr Adets answer to your communication, relatively to the\nCapture of the Ship Mount Vernon, leaves the matter as undecided as before; and his reserve may, it is to be feared, be considered as a collateral evidence of the truth of the information I handed to you in my last, and contributes to shew the necessity of having a proper understanding of this matter. The Privateer Flying Fish, might not have brought orders for Capturing our Provision Vessels, bound to British Ports; but she might have received them thro\u2019 Mr Bournonville, who came out at the sametime the French Commissioners did, to St Domingo.\n        My sentiments with respect to the Successor for the Office rendered vacant by the death of Mr Gorham; and the changes consequent of the removal of Mr Jonathan Jackson to it; were communicated by the last Post to the Secretary of the Treasury\u2014who was also informed, that in case of the non-acceptance of the Office of District Attorney for Massachusetts, by Mr H. G. Otis I approved of its being given to Mr Davis the present Comptroller; provided his professional knowledge (of which I had no correct information) was deemed adequate to the discharge of the duties; and he wd place himself in a situation to render them conveniently to the Public.\n        If Mr De Witt should decline the Office of Surveyor General, give me notice of it without delay; and you may accompany it with the names of persons (if any should occur or be brought to your view) as may be thought qualified for so important & trusty worthy an appointment.\n        Are there any accounts yet from Captn Lewis? & what are the last Accts from the Western Posts? Let the letter which goes under cover with this for Major Pinckney receive the earliest safe conveyance which may offer, since (as I find by the Papers) it has missed the hands of Mr King, by whom I intended to forward it.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0225", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Lee, Jr., 28 June 1796\nFrom: Lee, Thomas Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n        I have not been unmindful of the desire you expressed that I should make enquiry about your runaway Woman; From the\ninformation I have received she has certainly been here. This information has been gained from a free mulattoe Woman who is Cooke in a boarding house in this City kept by a Mr Marcelline, this Cooke acknowledges she is well acquained with Oney & that she has been here, says farther that she is gone to Boston\u2014whether this last information is intended as a blind or not I cannot say, however I have spoken to a Constable of the City who has promissed me to keep a watch & make search for her. I leave it with you, Sir, how far it may be adviseable for you to write to some person here about her, the enquiry on my part shall be continued as we proceed on & especially in Boston.\n        We leave this in a day or two for Rhode Iland by Water, it would have given me great happiness could I inform you that Mrs Lees health was bettered since we left Philadelphia, on the contrary I think she has lost both flesh & strength, she with Mrs Washington desire to be affectionately remembered to yourself and Mrs Washington. I have the honor to be Dear sir with great esteem your most Obedient Hble servant\n          Thos Lee Jr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0226", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 28 June 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n          Treasury Department June 28th 1796.\n        I have the honour to acknowledge your Letter of the 24th Instant. the Commissions for the offices in the Revenue Department & the Marshal will be made out as directed. No inconvenience will attend a short delay in filling the vacancy in the office of District Attorney, as Mr Otis will attend to whatever is urgent. On this last point I shall consult the Secretary of State.\n        A novel & very perplexing question has arisen in respect to the Act of Congress of the last Session for the relief and protection of american seamen. It seems that an entire section of the bill as it passed the House of Representatives, has been omitted in the Act, although the Act has still a reference to what was struck out. by this defect the fourth section of the existing Law is deemed incapable of being executed. After much consideration & different views of the subject, & pursuant to the advice & opinion of Council, the Secretary of State, the Secretary of War & myself have thought that the object of the Law can be properly\nattained by the interposition of the Executive. The form of an Act which is proposed to be sent to the Collectors of the Customs has been therefore prepared & is herewith submitted to the President\u2019s decision. That the President may judge of the difficulty which exists, copies of the Act & of the bill of the House, with Messrs Rawle\u2019s & Lewis\u2019s opinions will be herewith enclosed.\n        I hope to be able by the next post to write to the President on the points which remain unanswered. With perfect deference & attachment I have the honor to be &c.\n          Olivr Wolcott Jr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0227", "content": "Title: To George Washington from the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 29 June 1796\nFrom: Commissioners for the District of Columbia\nTo: Washington, George\n          Washington 29th June 1796\n        We had your favor of the 26th Inst. inclosing your approbation of the proposed alterations in the manner of improving in the City of Washington\u2014We have given the necessary Instructions for their publication in the public prints of Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, City, George Town, Alexandria, Richmond and Charleston; if you think the publication ought to be more general, we shall readily give the necessary directions\u2014We presume, that by the superintendant, our principal overseer and contractor, Capt. Williams, is meant; he is the only Officer of the City, residing in George Town to whom the Presidents sentiments on the subject of residence had not been made\nknown\u2014He has long been in public service & has gained the entire approbation of the board and every person connected with us\u2014The contents of your Letter have been communicated to him\u2014With respect to ourselves, we know not that we have any thing new to add, being differently circumstanced, and perhaps, entertaining different views\u2014All hopes of Messrs Morris & Nicholson seem to be done away\u2014No answer has yet been received from either the Secretary of the Treasury or the President of the Bank of Columbia; nor can we yet say what may be the success of the applications We enclose you a Copy of our Letter to the Bank\u2014We have been lately, a good deal surprised, by receiving a Letter from Mr Hadfield, giving us notice, that he should at the expiration of three months, agreeably to his Contract, quit the public employment\u2014We next day informed him that he was at liberty to quit the business as soon as convenient to himself, & that a sum equal to his passage to Europe, should be paid to him; since the delivery of this Letter, he seems to have considered the subject better & has applied to withdraw his notice, promising every attention to carrying on the Capitol, as approved of by the President\u2014In consequence, we have consented to his continuance till the expiration of the three months, but by no means relinquishing the advantage of the notice; on the contrary, expressly declaring the contract at an end, and only to be renewed by consent of parties, at that time, if thought proper\u2014The board have made the necessary arrangements for the recess of a Week, which harvest will occasion\u2014we hope and expect no possible inconvenience can arise from it\u2014We have the honor to be &c.\n          G. ScottW. ThorntonA. White", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0228", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Betty Washington Lewis, 29 June 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lewis, Betty Washington\n        Letter not found: to Betty Washington Lewis, 29 June 1796. Lewis wrote GW on 5 July: \u201cI receiv\u2019d your Letters of 26th and 29th of June.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0229", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 29 June 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        I beg you to sign the within authority to borrow for the use of the City of Washington and to have it returned to me with a power signed by the three commissioners. You may recollect that the one sent me for a duplicate contained only the names of two of them vz. Mr Scotts & Mr Thorntons. The Willinks may consider that power as imperfect as the law and your authority have reference to three. With the greatest respect I have the honour to be Sir Your most obt St\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0230", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 29 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n        (Private)\n          Mount Vernon 29th June 1796\n        Did Mr Liston furnish the letter you asked of him, in favor of Cap: Talbots agency, to the West Indies? Has any representation been made to him, independent of that application, consequent of the evidence you have recd of the Impressment of our Seamen?\n        When I left Philadelphia, it was expected, & from Mr & Mrs Liston themselves, that they were to follow us in ten days; and allowing a few days between, the Chevr & Madam de Friere was to follow them: Since which I have not heard a word of either; and am held in suspence. I gave the French Minister also an Invitation; and understood from Mr la Fayette that he proposed to set out for this place in ten days after they did; which was three days later than my doing it.\n        As uncertainty with respect to the coming of these Gentlemen and their ladies (the French Minister\u2019s lady I have no reason to expect) and of the time they may be expected, is not very pleasant; some other arrangements being impeded thereby. I would thank you therefore or any of the other Gentlemen, if it can be accomplished indirectly\u2014or at least without formality\u2014to give me some items of their movements, and intentions; that I may know what to rely on, & regulate other matters accordingly.\n        Is the Spanish Minister arrived in Philadelphia? If so, what do you understand to be his Plan? If he is not, what accounts have you of him? With very great esteem & regard I am\u2014Dear Sir Your affectionate\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0231", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Bushrod Washington, 29 June 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Washington, Bushrod\n          Dear Bushrod,\n          Mount Vernon 29th June 1796.\n        You have not informed me what or whether any thing has been done in the Court of Chancery (in this State) for bringing the acct of my administration of Colo. Colvills Estate to a close, that my hands may be entirely clear, of it. I therefore give you the trouble of this enquiry: as I am extremely anxious to be acquitted. The balance due from me, (and at present lodged in the Bank of Alexandria) is ready to be applied in any manner and at any moment to the Chancellors order.\n        I drew a prize in Colo. Byrds lottery, of a half acre lot\u2014no. 265\u2014I believe in the Town of Manchester and I have a lot in some Town that was established on James River (below Richmd) by a certain John Wood for which I have a deed (but it is in Philadelphia) if these are to be found and worth your acceptance, I will give them to you\u2014I am entitled also in partnership with, or the Heirs of Peyton Randolph, Richard Randolph Mr Fitzhugh\nof Chatham, George Wythe, Richard Kidder Medde[,] Lewis Burwell, John Wales Nathaniel Harrison Junr\u2014and Thomson Mason\u2014to a tenth part of two or three half acre lots & 200 acre lots in the aforesaid lottery\u2014But as Thomson Mason (with or without authority) sold this property and never to me at least accounted, for an ioto of the amount little I presume is to be expected from this concern but if you think or find it otherwise upon enquiry, I give you all the Interest I have therein & you may act accordingly. With sincere friendship I remain Yr Affec. Uncle\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0235", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 1 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Commissioners for the District of Columbia\n          Gentlemen\n          Mount Vernon 1st July 1796.\n        Your two letters, dated the 29th Ulto, have been received. The enclosures for the several Printers, to whom they are directed, are franked; and will go with this, and other letters to the Post Office this afternoon. I do not think it would be amiss to add Hartford, in Connecticut (a paper of extensive circulation altho\u2019 I do not recollect the name of the Editor of it) and some Gazette in North Carolina, to your list of publications.\n        The decisive manner in which you treated the notification of Mr Hadfield, was, in my opinion, very proper. There ought to be no trifling in these matters. Coaxing a man to stay in Office\u2014or to do his duty while he is in it, is not the way to accomplish the objects.\n        Having received (by the last Post) the certificates I wrote to Philadelphia for, I enclose them, with the Power of Attorney to Messrs Willinks, that you may forward them by the first conveyance that offers. I am not in the way to hear of any.\n        The continual disappointments of Messrs Morris & Nicholson are really painful. One would hope that their assurances were not calculated for delay, and yet they seem to admit of hardly any other interpretation. An answer from the Secretary of the Treasury might, and I think ought to have been received by you, on Wednesday last. With esteem & regard I am Gentlemen Your Obedient Servt\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0236", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Love, 1 July 1796\nFrom: Love, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n          Norfolk [England?] July 1st 1796\n        Having intermarried with the only child of William Wright who fell, as I am told in Braddocks field fighting under your command, before she was born, and seeing that owing to the paternal care you were pleased to take of the Interest of his Heirs and of those who had the honor to serve under your command at that time, that she is entitled to 2500 Acres of Land, part of a patent for 21,941 Acres made by your order on the Kanawha, beginning at the mouth of Pohotillico for the benefit of J. Fry, A. Stephen, Andrew Lewis, Peter Hogg, John Savage, Thomas Bullitt, her father William Wright and John D. Welper, their heirs and assigns in the several proportions mentioned in an Order of the Governor and Council bearing date the 4th November 1773 as tennants in common and not as joint tennants\u2014the original Copy of which order of Council being lost with the Council Books of those times, I beg the favor of your Excellency when time serves, to have a Copy of the Order made, if a Copy be in your notes, and so Authenticated as to be satisfactory to our High Court of Chancery that the Lands may be divided and each Know their own.\n        My Wife prays you Sir to accept her best thanks for this Land; saved to her by your care and at your expence and in this, I do so heartily join her as to assure your Excellency that I think more of the Act, than of the Land, altho\u2019 I am well informed by your Correspondence with our Uncle Doctor Wright of Glasgow and otherwise that the Land is of excellent Soil.\n        The bearer my friend Mr Walker will take any trouble and defray any expence needful to accomplish this end. I am with the most perfect Respect Your most Obedt Hble Servt\n          Alexander Love", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0237", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 1 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: McHenry, James\n          Mount Vernon 1st July 1796\n        Your letter of the 27th Ulto by Post, with its enclosures (the originals of which, I return) came to my hands on Wednesday. And your other letters of the 27th & 28th by Express, was received about five oclock yesterday afternoon.\n        The accounts brought in the latter, are very pleasing indeed, inasmuch as they will serve to remove the doubts of the credulous (with respect to the Western Posts); and when realized, be productive of that tranquillity, and peace with the Indians which, in itself, is so desirable; and has been so much wished and sought for, by every real friend to his Country.\n        It is my desire that the charges exhibited against General Wayne by Brigadier Wilkenson, with the letters of crimination on both sides, should be laid before the heads of Departments; and yours and their opinions reported to me on the measures necessary to be pursued to do justice to the Public; the accused; and the accuser; As also when, and by whom, the enquiry is to be made; with the preliminary steps necessary thereto.\n        There are no Officers, I conceive, of sufficient rank to constitute a Court before whom the Commander in chief can be brought. Is the matter then to come before Congress? In what manner? My first impression relative to this business (though not maturely, or distinctly formed) is, that General Wayne ought, immediately, to be furnished with a copy of all the charges exhibited against him by the Brigadier; in order, as many of them are of old standing that he may have time allowed him to recollect circumstances; and to see what counter evidence can be produced, or what satisfactory explanations can be given; that he may not be unprepared for trial whensoever he is called upon.\n        It may be well if it can be accomplished, by civil expressions, to stimulate the present Governor of Tennessee to an effectual repression of incroachments on Indian Territory (secured to them by Treaties): but the honor of the government, and the Peace of the Union, require, that if he is not decisive, the Laws relative thereto, be not suspended, or trifled with; but promptly, and energetically (with temper & prudence) enforced.\n        I will not speak upon the new model of the Army now, but will take more time to consider the scheme for resolving the Legion into four Regiments, on the plan you have suggested.\n        In speaking of the Generals Wayne & Wilkinson, I omitted to add, as my opinion, that the latter (if leave has not been given already) ought to obtain the furlough he has asked; and as soon as the former joins the Army; for no good will result from both being with it in the irritable temper they are in, at the sametime.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0240", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 1 July 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n          [Philadelphia, 1 July 1796]\n        I have had the honour to receive your Letter of June 27th and have disposed of the enclosures agreably to direction.\n        Last Evening I called on Mr T. W. Francis and he informed me that your Wine was in good condition & perfectly safe stored in the Compting House with two Pipes of Mr Willings: it was Mr Francis\u2019s opinion that the situation was much better for the improvement of the wine than any Cellar: I am no judge of the matter my self & can cause a removal at any time, if the President judges it adviseable.\n        There is nothing new in town\u2014Baches paper continues as usual to be filled with abuse against the Government & predictions of French hostility. I believe however that his publications make but little impression\u2014Browns paper of last evening, stated that President was expected to return here in a few days\u2014I have not been able to trace the origin of the report, but I presume it to be a trick of some person to incite alarm\u2014it will be contradicted.\n        The questions proposed by the Presidt being of great consequence we have thought it best to keep them under\nconsideration a few days\u2014The pressure of business with me is such that I have not been able to bestow all the attention which I wish.\n        The new Stock will I fear remain unsold notwithstanding the long Credit which was offered\u2014some new expedient must be adopted; what will be best I cannot yet determine. I shall act with caution & pursuant to the best advice which I can obtain. With perfect deference & attachment, I remain Sir, your obedt servt\n          Oliver Wolcott Jr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0243", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Bushrod Washington, 3 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, Bushrod\nTo: Washington, George\n          Dear Uncle\n          Richmond July 3d 1796\n        I received your favor by last post for which accept my grateful acknowledgements. I shall make the necessary enquiries, and then pursue such steps as may insure to me the benefit of your bounty.\n        I should have written to you immediately after the end of the last Chancery Term respecting the suit agt Colvilles Legatees, but that I expected the pleasure of seeing you at Mount vernon sometime in the last month, and supposed I might as well postpone any communications respecting the business \u2019till I could make them in person. The enclosed order I obtained at the May Court which was as early as any thing could be done, and is what you desire. this gives you the opportunity of immediately getting clear of the mony, but as your object I know is to obtain a quietus with respect to the whole business so as not to be called upon hereafter to settle accounts when vouchers &c. may be lost, I consulted with Mr Keith & finding that he could with safety go into a settlement again I shall as soon as the rules of the Court will permit obtain an order appointing Commissioners to state & settle your accounts\u2014this may perhaps surprise you, Knowing that this has been once before done under the order of the County Court\u2014But settlements of that kind are not obligatory at all, and are every day controverted and set aside\u2014Knowing\nthis & reflecting that you might hereafter be called upon when you may have lost the assistance of Mr Keith, I thought it was in every respect most consonant with your views & interest to seek a final & conclusive termination to the business.\n        I hope to have the pleasure of seeing you & my Aunt at Mount Vernon about the 9th Instant\u2014Mrs Washingtons health is so bad during the summer in this lower Country, that I shall (inconvenient as it is for me to leave Town) endeavour to carry her up to the Berkley Springs.\n        She Joins me in love to my Aunt & yourself And believe me to be dear Uncle with sincere wishes for your hea[l]th & happiness Yr Affectionate Nephew\n          Bushrod Washington\n          P.S. you will please forward the enclosed order so as to be published at some place in England as near that where your first advertisement was published as possible\u2014some merchant in Alexa. can no doubt have this done.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0245", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Cyrus Griffin, 4 July 1796\nFrom: Griffin, Cyrus\nTo: Washington, George\n          Being engaged upon duty at the Circuit and District Courts held in the City of Richmond I had not an opportunity of sooner acknowleging the honor of your letter.\n          I am particularly uneasy and depressed to have taken one moment from the immense labour of your public functions, or to have incured your displeasure in the remotest degree. We understood that Congress were to adjourn on the 20th of May; I thought you would do me the favor to read the letter at some more leisure period; nor had I the least claim to receive an answer but what should arise from your extreme Goodness to every description of persons. Indeed Sir, I did not mean to intimate that I had been overlooked in any recent appointments, but meant to obviate some objections to me that possibly might have come to your Information, in case that another Judge of the Supreme Court should be nominated from Virginia, and upon supposition that gentlemen of better talents, from their lucrative practice at the Bar, would not think proper to accept such appointment.\n          I have taken the liberty to write to you three or four letters\nsince your Benevolence was shewn to me, in one of which I expressed a wish that my destination had been fixed to a diplomatic employment\u2014the wish was a most improper one as those employments were so much better arranged, and I did wrong in fatiguing you with letters unnecessarily. repentance never reaches to restitution, but I will promise most faithfully never more to encroach upon your valuable hours, the only compensation in my power to make.\n          most eagerly do I thank you for those kind assurances of esteem and regard; and \u2019tho I am destitute of the great advantages of the mind which other gentlemen possess, yet very honestly may I take the liberty to profess the sentiments of my heart\u2014that purest veneration, and most respectful attachment with which I shall always remain Sir Your obedient and obliged humble Servant\n          pardon me when I take the freedom to congratulate with you upon the return of this day; and that I most fervently hope many years hence you may in health preside over the Councils of our happy Country.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0247", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 4 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n          Mount Vernon 4th July 1796\n        The Spanish Minister, Mr de Yrujo, spent two days with me, and is just gone. I caused it to be intimated to him, that as I should be absent from the Seat of the Government until the middle, or latter end of August, that I was ready to receive his letter of credence at this place. He answered (as I understood it) that his credentials were with his Baggage, on its passage to Philadelphia; and that his reception at that place, at the time mentioned, would be perfectly convenient and agreeable to himself.\n        He is a young man, very free and easy in his manners; professes to be well disposed towards the United States; and as far as a judgment can be formed in so short an acquaintance, appears to be well informed.\n        Enclosed are two letters from the Governor of Pennsylvania, applying for the Aid of the General Government to execute, effectually, the Quarantine he had Proclaimed. I left Philadelphia under an impression that circular letters had been written by the Secretary of the Treasury to the Collectors of the different Ports, and by the Secretary of War to the Officers commanding the Garrisons on the Seaboard to pay proper attention to the Act of Congress relative to Quarantine.\n        From the application of Govr Mifflin, the presumption is, there has been an omission somewhere. Let me desire that you, and the other two Gentlemen would meet, and see where it lyes;\nthat a remedy may be immediately applied. and I request you will acknowledge the receipt of the Governor\u27e8s\u27e9 letters, and inform him of what is, or will be, done.\n        I desire to be informed also, if any thing is, or can be done relatively to the appointment of an Indian agent, in place of Governor Blount? and others, for carrying on the Trade (authorised by Congress) with those People?\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0248", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 4 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State July 4. 1796.\n        I have the honor to inclose the concurrent opinions of the heads of departments on the points stated in your letter of the 24th ulto and I return the confidential copy of Colo. Hamilton\u2019s letter, agreeably to your direction. The letter to Mr Adet was sent to him on Saturday.\n        The paper inclosed by Mr Monroe in his letter to Dr Logan gave a very long detail about French affairs. In the last page he touched on the British treaty; concerning which he says, that the report of a new connection thereby formed between the U.S. & G. Britain, \u201coperated like a stroke of thunder, & produced in all France amazement.\u201d There was a postscript to Mr Monroes letter, but it merely referred to the project of the French constitution, which he had only heard read in the convention, & could not therefore detail. I am with the highest respect sir your most obt servt\n          Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0249", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 4 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Philadelphia July 4. 1796\n        I received your letter of the 29th ulto on Saturday. Mr Liston has promised the necessary letters for Colo. Talbot, & to deliver them to me by the ensuing Thursday; and about Friday he proposes to set out for Mount Vernon. The Chevalier de Freire told me ten days ago, that he should regulate his movements by those of Mr Liston, whose departure for Mount Vernon he waited. Mr Liston last evening mentioned as a motive for delaying his journey, the expected arrival of the British packet: but that now he\nshould wait no longer than about Friday next. Of Mr Adet\u2019s journey I have heard nothing: if I can by any means learn his intentions I will make them known to you.\n        I have sent to Mr Jaudennes, who informs that the Spanish minister has gone from Baltimore to the city of Washington, & thence means to proceed to Mount Vernon. I am most respectfully, sir, your obt servt\n          T. Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0250", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Gustavus Scott, 4 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Scott, Gustavus\n          Mount Vernon 4th July 1796\n        If the public dispatches which I receive, & am obliged to answer by every Post, would permit; I would go more into detail, & explanation of the subject of your last (seperate) letter, than it is possible for me to do at present. I will not, however, let it pass without some further expression of my ideas; & the understanding I always had of your entrance into the Office you now hold, in the Federal City.\n        That the Secretary of State\u2019s letter to you (which I have not by me at this place to resort to) may have been so worded as to leave the alternative of residing in the City, or in George Town; is not necessary, if it was justifiable, to deny; because a change of circumstances would certainly authorise a change of measures. But independent of this, it must not be forgotten, that at the time the letter above alluded to was written, such an alternative was indispensable for as much as there were no convenient accommodation for the Commissioners in the City; and because houses could not be erected in a moment, under the circumstances which then existed. In addition to this, let it be remembered also, that the first Comrs sensible of the propriety, & advantages which would result therefrom, had resolved to build a house for their own accommodation at, or near the spot where the Hotel now stands; and were diverted from it (if my memory serves me)\npartly by two causes; first from a doubt of the propriety of such an application of public money; and 2dly from an opinion that they could be accommodated in the Hotel, when built; which, it was expected would have happened long since.\n        I mention these things to shew; that there has been no inconsistency in my sentiments, or conduct; and that, to enable the Commissioners to comply with the views of Government, and to devote their time to its service, the present Compensation was resolved on.\n        Your other allegation is of a more serious nature; and if deception withdrew you from what you deemed a permanent establishment, at Baltimore, it cannot be justified. But be assured, Sir, this is a new view of the subject; and that the proposal to you, to become a Commissioner, originated in assurances, confidently given to me, that you had resolved to remove to the Federal City, or to George Town; and because I knew you had a considerable interest in the vicinity of them. Was not the first application to you predicated on this information?\n        But I must be explicit in declaring, that not only to obviate the suspicions and jealousies which proceed from a residence of the Commissioners without the City, or in a remote corner of it; not only that they may be, where the busy & important scenes are transacting, that they may judge of the conduct of others not from Reports only, but from occular proof, as the surest guide to Oconomy an\u27e8d\u27e9 dispatch; Independent I say of these considerations, which are momentous of themselves, I should view the Residence of the Commissioners of the City, and their Officers of different Grades, in some central part of it as a nest egg (pardon the expression) which will attract others, and prove the surest means of accomplishing the great object which all have in view\u2014the removal of Congress at the appointed time\u2014without which, every thing will become stagnant, & your sanguine hopes blasted.\n        To be frank, I must give it to you as my opinion, that in relation to the concerns of the City, the Commissioners stand precisely in the same light (if not in a stronger one) than each does to any interesting matter in a train of execution for himself. Would you then, notwithstanding you may have an Archetect to carry on your buildings on Rock Hill, and a man to superinted your attending labourers trust to their proceeding without your own\nminute Inspection of their conduct? I think, and am sure you will answer, no. I do not mean by this question to exhibit a charge\u2014for I do as truly tell you, that I do not know, or ever heard, how often you visit your own concerns there. It is upon general principles I argue. A man of Industry and exertion will not, on his own acct have a work of that sort on hand without giving close attention to it. And certain it is, the Obligation (because of the responsibility) is at least equally great when entrusted by the Public.\n        After all, as the Season is now far advanced, & houses, in the situation I have described as most eligable, may not be to be rented; I am not unwilling that the removal of the Commissioners if they find much inconvenience in doing it, may be suspended untill the commencement of the operations of next Spring, when it will certainly be expected; and if known, I have no doubt but that houses will be prepared for their accommodation by that time.\n        You will from the length of this letter, with difficulty give credit to my assertion in the begining of it; but as a proof; not only of its verity, but of the friendship and candour with which it is written, it shall go to you in its present rough garb; and with all its imperfections, accompanied with assurances of the esteem & regard with which I am\u2014Sir Your Obedt Hble Servt\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0251", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 5 July 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n        I was in due time favoured with your letter of the 26 June & consulted the Gentleman you name on the subjects of it.\n        We are both of opinion there is no power in the President to appoint an Envoy Extraordinary, without the concurrence of the senate, & that the information in question is not a sufficient ground for extraordinarily convening the senate\u2014If however the President from his information collectively be convinced that a dangerous state of things exists between us & France and that an envoy extraordinary to avert the danger is a necessary measure, I believe this would in the sense of the constitution warrant the calling of the Senate for the purpose\u2014But this measure may be questionable in point of expediency, as giving a stronger appearance of danger than facts warrant\u2014If further depredations on our commerce take place, if new avowals of the principle of the last capture should appear, it may alter the case\u2014But without something more the measure would scarcely seem adviseable.\n        Mr Jay & Myself though somewhat out of your question talked of the expediency of removing Monroe, and though we perceive there are weighty reasons against it, we think those for it preponderate\u2014if a proper man can be found\u2014But here we felt both immense embarrassment, for he ought to be at the same time a friend to the Government & understood to be not unfriendly to the French Revolution\u2014General Pinckney is the only man we can think of who fully satisfies the idea, & unfortunately every past experiment forbids the hope that he would accept\u2014though but for a short time\u2014But if a character of tolerable fitness can be thought of, it would seem expedient to send him\u2014At any rate it is to be feared, if under the symptoms of discontent which have appeared on the part of the French Government, no actual & full explanation takes place, it will bring serious censure upon the Executive\u2014It will be said that it did not display as much zeal to avoid misunderstanding with France as with G. Britain\u2014that discontents were left to rankle\u2014that if the Agent of the Government in France was negligent or unfaithful some other mode ought to have been found &c.\n        As to your resignation, Sir, it is not to be regretted that the declaration of your intention should be suspended as long as\npossible & suffer me to add that you should really hold the thing undecided to the last moment\u2014I do not think it is in the power of party to throw any slur upon the lateness of your declar[a]tion. And you have an obvious justification in the state of things\u2014If a storm gathers, how can you retreat? This is a most serious question.\n        The proper period now for your declaration seems to be Two months before the time for the Meeting of the Electors. This will be sufficient\u2014The parties will in the mean time electioneer conditionally, that is to say, if you decline\u2014for a serious opposition to you will I think hardly be risked.\n        I have completed the full draft of a certain paper & shall shortly transcribe correct & forward it\u2014I will then also prepare & send forward without delay the original paper corrected upon the general plan of it so that you may have both before you for a choice in full time & for alteration if necessary. With true respect & Affect. Attachment I have the hon. to remain Sir Yr very Obed. ser.\n          A. Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0253", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 5 July 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        private.\n          Philadelphia 5 July 1796.\n        I made a visit yesterday to Chevr Freire, and to-day he called to let me know, that his secretary had seen Mr Listons Secretary, who told him that Mr & Madam Liston would set out for Mount Vernon on friday, and that he and Madam Freire would follow on the 18th inst.\n        Seeing that these ministers will avail themselves of your politeness, may it not be proper to be a little more particular with Mr Adet. Ought I to mention to him, that you had desired me to remind him of your wish to see him at Mount Vernon, and to know when you might expect that pleasure. Just now I suppose he is engaged on Mr Pickerings questions. I shall therefore take no step in the affair till the result is communicated, and till I hear further from you.\n        I inclose a letter from Major Kersey who will be deranged upon the principle of seniority. If a principle applicable to the majors could be adopted which would retain him and Peters, I have no doubt, but that the army would be benefited by leaving out in their stead Cushing & Shaylor. You will perceive that on the present establishment Massachusetts & Connecticut have six majors out of the 11 Infantry majors, and that following the principle of Seniority six of the 8 will belong to these two States. With the most sincere respect and attachment I am Sir your most obt st\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0255", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 6 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n          Mount Vernon 6th July 1796.\n        When I inform you, that your letter of the 19th Ulto went to Philadelphia and returned to this place, before it was received by me; it will be admitted, I am persuaded, as an apology for my not having acknowledged the receipt of it sooner.\n        If I had entertained any suspicions before, that the queries which have been published in Bache\u2019s Paper proceeded from you, the assurances you have given of the contrary, would have removed them; but the truth is, I harboured none. I am at no loss to conjecture from what source they flowed; through what channel they were conveyed; and for what purpose they, and similar publications, appear. They were known to be in the hands of Mr Parker, in the early part of the last Session of Congress; They were shewn about by Mr Giles during the Cession\u2014and they made their public exhibition about the close of it.\n        Percieving, and probably hearing, that no abuse in the Gazette\u2019s would induce me to take notice of anonymous publications, against me; those who were disposed to do me such friendly Offices, have embraced without restraint every opportunity to weaken the confidence of the People\u2014and by having the whole game in their hands, they have scrupled not to publish things that do not, as well as those which do exist; and to mutilate the\nlatter, so as to make them subserve the purposes which they have in view.\n        As you have mentioned the subject yourself, it would not be frank, candid, or friendly to conceal, that your conduct has been represented as derogating from that opinion I had conceived you entertained of me. That to your particular friends & connexions, you have described, and they have announced me, as a person under a dangerous influence; and that, if I would listen more to some other opinions all would be well. My answer invariably has been, that I had never discovered any thing in the conduct of Mr Jefferson to raise suspicions, in my mind, of his insincerity; that if he would retrace my public conduct while he was in the Administration, abundant proofs would occur to him, that truth and right decisions, were the sole objects of my pursuit; that there were as many instances within his own knowledge of my having decided against, as in favor of the opinions of the person evidently alluded to; and moreover, that I was no believer in the infallibility of the politics, or measures of any man living. In short, that I was no party man myself, and the first wish of my heart was, if parties did exist, to reconcile them.\n        To this I may add, and very truly, that, until within the last year or two, I had no conception that Parties Would, or even could go, the length I have been Witness to; nor did I believe until lately, that it was within the bounds of probability\u2014hardly within that of possibility, that while I was using my utmost exertions to establish a national character of our own, independent, as far as our obligations, and justice would permit, of every nation of the earth; and wished, by steering a steady course, to preserve this Country from the horrors of a desolating war, that I should be accused of being the enemy of one Nation, and subject to the influence of another; and to prove it, that every act of my Administration would be tortured, and the grossest, & most insiduous mis-representations of them be made (by giving one side only of a subject, and that too in such exagerated, & indecent term\u27e8s\u27e9 as could scarcely be applied to a Nero; a notorious defaulter; or even to a common pickpocket). But enough of this; I have already gone farther in the expression of my feelings, than I intended.\n        The particulars of the case you mention (relative to the Little Sarah) is a good deal out of my recollection at present; and I\nhave no public papers here to resort to. When I get back to Philadelphia (which, unless I am called there by something new, will not be \u2019till towards the last of August) I will examine my files.\n        It must be pleasing to a Cultivator, to possess land which will yield Clover kindly; for it is certainly a great Desiderata in Husbandry. My Soil, without very good dressings, does not produce it well: owing, I believe, to its stiffness; hardness at bottom; and retention of Water. A farmer, in my opinion, need never dispair of raising Wheat to advantage, upon a Clover lay; with a single ploughing, agreeably to the Norfolk and Suffolk practice. By a misconception of my Manager last year, a field at one of my Farms which I intended shd have been fallowed for Wheat, went untouched. Unwilling to have my crop of Wheat at that place so much reduced, as would have been occasioned by this omission, I directed, as soon as I returned from Philadelphia (about the middle of September) another field, not in the usual rotation, which had lain out two years, and well covered with mixed grasses, principally white clover, to be turned over with a good Bar-share; and the Wheat to be sown, and harrowed in at the tail of the Plough. It was done so accordingly, and was, by odds, the best wheat I made this year. It exhibits an unequivocal proof to my mind, of the great advantage of a Clover lay, for Wheat. Our Crops of this article, hereabouts, are more or less injured by what some call the Rot\u2014others the Scab; occasioned, I believe, by high wind & beating rain when the grain is in blossom, & before the Farina has performed its duties.\n        Desirous of trying the field Peas of England, and the Winter Vetch, I sent last fall to Mr Murray of Liverpool for eigh\u27e8t\u27e9 bushels of each sort. Of the Peas he sent me two kinds (a white & dark, but not having his letter by me, I am unable to give the names). They did not arrive until the latter end of April, when they ought to have been in the ground the beginning of March. They were sown however, but will yield no Seed; of course the experiment I intended to make, is lost. The Vetch is yet on hand for Autumn Seeding. That the Albany Peas will grow well with us, I know from my own experience: but they are subject to the same bug which perforates, and injures the Garden Peas, and which will do the same, I fear, to the imported Peas, of any sort, from England, in this climate, from the heat of it.\n        I do not know what is meant by, or to what uses the Caroline\ndrill is applied. How does your Chicorium prosper? Four years since, I exterminated all the Plants raised from Seed sent me by Mr Young, and to get into it again, the Seed I purchased in Philadelphia last Winter, and what has been sent me by Mr Murray this Spring, has cost me upwards of twelve pounds Sterling. This, it may be observed, is a left handed way to make money; but the first was occasioned by the manager I then had, who pretended to know it well in England, and pronounced it a noxious weed; the restoration of it, is indebted to Mr Strickland & othe\u27e8rs\u27e9 (besides Mr Young) who speak of it in exalted terms. I sowed mine broadcast, some with, and some without grain. It has come up well, but there seems to be a serious struggle between it and th\u27e8e\u27e9 grass & weeds; the issue of which (as I can afford no relief to the former) is doubtful at present, & may be useful to know.\n        If you can bring a moveable threshing Machine, constructed upon simple principles to perfection, it will be among the most valuable institutions in this Country; for nothing is more wanting, & to be wished for on our farms. Mrs Washington begs you to accept her best wishes\u2014and with very great esteem & regard I am\u2014Dear Sir Your Obedient Hble Servt\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0256", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Charles Lee, 6 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lee, Charles\n          Mount Vernon 6th July 1796.\n        Having shewn you the answr of the French Minister, to the communication of the Secretary of State, relatively to the Capture of the Ship Mount Vernon, by the French Privateer Flying Fish. Having read you also, the contents of a Letter from \u2014\u2014 respecting information from St Domingo, of the intended measures of the French government, to Harrass our commerce with Great Britain; and also my letter to the Secretary of State on that Subject; to which I have, by the last Mail, received the enclosed acknowledgment: Let me now ask what you think of the opinion therein given, respecting the recall of our Minister at Paris? Whether that act will authorise the appointment of an Envoy Extraordinary, or Minister Plenipotentiary? Whether it is, in that case, expedient to do it under present circumstances, as far as they are known\u2014or await a further developement of his conduct & the views of the Directory of France? And in case it is judged expedient to send a Person to Paris, to explain the motives for the conduct of this government, and to ascertain the views of that, Whether you think either of the Characters mentioned in the Secretary of State\u2019s letter would go? and whether there be any other occurring to you as eligable? Would Doctr McClerg go? & does he possess fit abilities if he would accept?\n        Answer all these queries as soon as you conveniently can. And let me have the draught you promised (on Monday last) for the purpose of supplying the deficiency in the Act for the relief of Seamen.\n        Make frequent inquiries for a fit character to fill the Office of Surveyor General\u2014I wish much to have it ably executed.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0257", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 6 July 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        In conformity with your Commands of the 1st instant, I have transmitted to the Secretary of State and the Secretary of the Treasury, letters of which the inclosed is a Copy.\n        In the mean while I shall turn my attention to the subjects on which you have desired my report, which I shall make as soon as the unavoidable duties of the Office will permit. With the greatest respect I am Sir Your most obedt humble servt\n          James McHenrySecy of war", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0258", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 6 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\n          Mount Vernon 6th July 1796.\n        When the letter herewith enclosed, dated the 4th instant was written in answer to yours of the 28th Ulto, part of it, as you will perceive, was dictated under the impression of much hesitation & doubt; for I am not fond of rectifying Legislative mistakes by Executive Acts. I determined however to take the Attorney Generals opinion on the case: resolving, if it accorded with those which had been sent me, to give the Act you forwarded, my signature.\n        For this purpose I requested that his opinion might be fully stated to me in writing and delivered at Alexandria on the 4th where I had promised to be at the celebration of the Anniversary of Independance; that I might, by the Post of next day, or rather the Mail of that evening, if his opinion had not a tendency to increase my own doubts, forward the Act to you.\n        Knowing, that neither time nor opportunity would be allowed at a crowded meeting, to write, I prepared my letter in the morning, before I left home, on the supposition of a concurrence; & in that case, that I might have nothing to do but to sign & enclose the Act; but his opinion being adverse to this (as you will see by the enclosure, which I request may be returned to me) I declined doing it; and have desired him to draught something anew.\n        This, when it comes to hand, (wch I expected would have been in time for this days Post) shall be sent.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0259", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 6 July 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n          Treasury Department July 6. 1796.\n        The Secretary of the Treasury respectfully transmits to the President of the United States a Letter from the Commissioner of the Revenue dated the 5th instant, covering a provisional contract entered into by William Allibone superintendent of the Light house establishment for the Bay of Delaware, with Garret Hulsecamp for placing & manageing the floating Beacons & Buoys in the said bay of Delaware.\n        Proposals for executing the business in question were received from several other persons; but as the one made by Hulsecamp was the lowest & perhaps not unreasonable considering the advanced price of living, the Secretary is of opinion that it will be\nfor the interest of the U. States if the President should think proper to approve of the said provisional contract between the Superintendent & Garret Hulsecamp. All which is most repectfully submitted to the consideration of the President U.S.\n          Olivr Wolcott JrSecy of the Treasury", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0261", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 7 July 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        private.\n          Philadelphia 7 July 1796.\n        Since I had the honour of writing you, the Chevalier Freire\u2019s Secry has called to inform me, that the extreme heat of the weather had induced Madam Freire, to induce Chevalier Friere to postpone the projected visit to Mount Vernon till September. You will not therefore I presume have the pleasure of seeing them.\n        Mr Pickering has mentioned to me, that such of the materials as are not wanted for the three frigates now building, may be employed in the construction of the frigate promised to the Dey of Algiers. If it should be determined so to use the materials, and to commence the building before the meeting of Congress, will it belong to the department of war or department of State to have her built and equipped? From the laws instituting the two departments it would seem to fall under the duties specified as appertaining to the former, so far at least as respects building and equippment.\n        I do not wish to have new duties assigned to me; but if matters relative to vessels of war belongs to the department of war, (of which you will judge in looking over the laws instituting the several departments) it might possibly give rise to remarks, were it to be assigned to a different one. Should you think however that it comes more properly within the duties of the department of State, than that of war I shall be perfectly satisfied.\n        I do not know that Mr Pickering has formed any opinion on this question, or that it has even occured to him; and I do not wish it to pass beyond yourself that I have suggested any doubt on the subject; because, it would look (which is very remote from the truth) as if I was either desirous to have the management of the building, or was jealous of encroachments on the department.\n        You have no doubt read the accounts of the success of the\nFrench arms in Sardinia. I am disposed to think that what has happened there will produce a peace with the Emperor. With the sinceresent respect and attachment, I have the honour to be Sir Your ob. st\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0262", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Alexander Addison, 8 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Addison, Alexander\n          Mount Vernon 8th July 1796\n        Your favor of the 4th Instant came to my hands by the last Post.\n        When I inform you that Mr Ross (who on my behalf, disposed of the Land I held on Millers run, to Mr Ritchie) is authorised to do all that is necessary on my part, towards carrying the bargain into complete effect; it almost supercedes the necessity of giving answers, in detail, to the queries you have propounded. I shall however, inform you\u2014\n        That three thousand dollars has been received, by me, on that account.\n        That I executed a deed, conveying the Estate in fee Simple, with a relinquishment of Dower, to Mr Ritchie; and left it in trust with Mr Ross, to be delivered when the requisites on the part of Mr Ritchie were complied with.\n        That if Mr Ritchie should be disposed to pay a greater sum\u2014not less than a third more than the Instalment becoming due\u2014it shall be received, provided notice thereof is given on, or before the first day of April in each year. and\n        That, a decisive answer has already been given (through Mr Ross) of my expectation of Interest from the first of January.\n        With respect to the Rents of the Land on Millers run, not knowing when, by agreement, they become due; and in truth, being very little acquainted with the circumstances attending them, it would be imprudent in me to say any thing, definitively, concerning them: whatever, therefore, Mr Ross may do in this regard, I will abide by; as I seek justice only, on liberal principles.\n        The money due on account of interest, to the first of June, may be deposited with the Secretary of the Treasury\u2014Mr Wolcott\u2014&, as it was in Philadelphia soon after that period, I require no interest thereon subsequent thereto. I believe it would be best also, at this time, not to receive money on any other account; lest it should militate with arrangements under a power given to Mr Ross. I have no doubt but that a judgment Bond executed by Mr Ritchie and yourself will be perfectly satisfactory; but every thing of this sort is already in the hands of Mr Ross to arrange.\n        The Survey has been returned to me\u2014and the quantity I\nbelieve (not having it at hand) is, as you say, 2955 Acres. I am\u2014Sir Your most Obedt Hble Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0264", "content": "Title: From George Washington to John Marshall, 8 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Marshall, John\n        Private\n          Mount Vernon 8th July 1796\n        In confidence I inform you, that it has become indispensably necessary to recall our Minister at Paris; and to send one in his place who will explain, faithfully, the views of this government, and ascertain those of France.\n        Nothing would be more pleasing to me, than that you should be this Organ; if it were only for a temporary absence of a few\nmonths. But it being feared that even this could not be made to comport with your present pursuits, I have, in order that as little delay as possible may be incurred, put the enclosed letter under cover to be forwarded to its address, if you decline the present offer; or to be returned to me, if you accept it.\n        Your own correct knowledge of circumstances render details unnecessary, I shall only add therefore that I am\u2014Dear Sir Your Obedt\n          Go: Washington\n          P.S. Hearing that you propose to attend the next meeting of the Supreme Court at Philadelphia I should be glad to see you at this place in your way.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0266", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 8 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n        (Confidential)\n          Mount Vernon 8th July 1796\n        My letters to the Secretary of the Treasury of the 4th & 6th Instant, with the present enclosure, conveys fully the sentiments of the Attorney General with respect to the best mode of executing the Act \u201cFor the relief and Protection of American Seamen.\u201d He has, since his opinion was transmitted in the above letter of the 6th, consulted two of our most eminent Lawyers, in these parts, and finds an entire accordance of opinion. I request, therefore, that the measure recommended may be pursued.\n        Your letters of the 1st and 2d instant, with several enclosures in the latter, came safe, and duly to hand. After that serious consideration which the subject deserved, I have determined to recall the American Minister at Paris; and am taking measures to supply his place; but the more the latter is revolved, greater the difficulties appear, to do it ably, & unexceptionably. By this, I mean one, who will promote, not thwart the Neutral policy of the government, & at the same time will not be obnoxious to the People among whom he is sent.\n        Proofs, little short of positive, are already in my possession, that neither Mr Henry, nor Mr Marshall wd accept of such an appointment. The chances against General Pinckney\u2019s doing it are strong, tho\u2019 not quite so great; and with respect to Mr Smith,\naltho\u2019 it would be a very agreeable choice to me, I am sure it would not concenter those opinions which policy would require. Mr Carroll of Carrolton, tho\u2019 sensible, and attached to Federal measures, would find himself on quite new ground; and besides he has such large concerns of his own to attend to, & is so tenacious of them, that it is morally certain he could not be prevailed on to go.\n        Having taken this view of the subject, I am, by this days Post, writing to General Pinckney. This letter I shall enclose to Mr Marshall (as he is in the line, Mr Henry being much out of it) to be forwarded\u2014or returned\u2014as he shall decide with respect to himself\u2014In the meantime, as the offer ends with General Pinckney, other characters should be held in contemplation, in case of his refusal.\n        The letter to the Minister Plenipotentiary of France, in Philadelphia, appears to be well conceived, and is accordingly approved. The transmitted copy of Mr Monroes letter to [\u2003] must be erroneously dated\u2014\u201cParis June 24th 1796\u201d\u2014I presume it is in the year, and should be 1795.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0267", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 8 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State July 8. 1796.\n        I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letters of the 1st and 4th instant. On the appointment of a superintendant of Indian Affairs in the room of Governor Blount\u2014and on the running & marking the Cherokee boundary, I expect to be able to report to you on Monday next the opinion of the Heads of Departments.\n        The Secretary of the treasury informs me that he directed the Comptroller to transmit to the Collectors of the Customs the act of Congress requiring their aid in the execution of the health laws of states relative to quarantine, with an injunction to render all the aid in their power to the State-Officers.\n        The Secretary of War has furnished me with a copy of the orders issued from his office, on the subject of quarantine, which I have the honor to inclose. The date, I observe, is three days earlier than Governor Mifflin\u2019s first letter requesting the aid which had been ordered. To prevent the crews or passengers of vessels from landing on the Jersey shore is impossible, unless the garrison of Mud Island were so numerous as to admit of placing a guard in each vessel. I am with the highest respect, sir, your most obt servant\n          Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0268", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, 8 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pinckney, Charles Cotesworth\n        Private & confidential\n          My dear Sir,\n          Mount Vernon 8th July 1796\n        The situation of Affairs, and the interests of this Country as they relate to France, render it indispensably necessary that a faithful organ near that government\u2014able & willing to explain its views, and to ascertain those of France, should immediately fill the place of our present Minister Plenipotentiary at Paris.\n        Policy requires that this character should be well attached to the government of his own Country; and not be obnoxious to the one to which he is sent; to be essentially serviceable.\n        Where then can a man be found that would answer this description better than yourself?\n        It is a fact too notorious to be denied, that the greatest embarrassments under which the Administration of this government labours, proceed from the counteraction of people among ourselves, who are more disposed to promote the views of another Nation than to establish National character of their own; and that, unless the virtuous, and independent men of this Country will step forward, it is not difficult to predict the consequences.\n        Such is my decided opinion. After what has passed between us, on former occasions (respecting your filling some of the important Offices in our government) I must confess that I hesitated before I resolved on this Address, lest you might think I was too importunate; & that your former answers ought to have outweighed the desire of making it. Had not the case been important & urgent, I might have hesitated longer; but in finding a character of the description I have mentioned, you will be at no loss to percieve the difficulty which occurs. He must be a man whose abilities, & celebrity of character are well known to the People of this Country; whose honor & integrity are unimpeached; and who ought, as far as the nature of the thing will admit, be acceptable to all parties. Doubtless many such there are, but those who have been, either in the Executive or Legislative departments of the General government, and are best known to me, have been so decisive in their politics, and possibly so frank & public in their declarations, as to render it very difficult to chuse from among them, one in whom the confidence\nof this country could be placed, and the prejudices of the other not excited.\n        Thus, my good Sir, you have a candid exposition of my sentiments & wishes. I have only to add to them, a request, that you would be so obliging as to give me a prompt answer; and, if in the affirmative, that you would repair to Philadelphia, prepared to proceed on the Mission, with as little delay as can be avoided. Possibly you might have less objection to the excursion, if it would occasion a few months absence only, than to a permanent residence; but the Power of the Executive (in the recess of the Senate) extends only to the filling of vacancies; and one will be occasioned by the recall of the present incumbent; a measure resolved on. It is unnecessary to add how much, and how sincerely I am\u2014Dear Sir Your obedt & Affecte Servt\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0269", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, 8 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pinckney, Charles Cotesworth\n        Duplicate\n          My dear Sir,\n          Mount Vernon 8th July 1796\n        Sincerely commisserating the distresses of the Citizens of Charleston, occasioned by the late unfortunate fires\u2014I take the liberty of offering, through you, my mite toward their relief; without any desire of having my name mentioned. With affectionate regard I am always Yours\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0271", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 10 July 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        With the view of keeping you informed of the course of the most important business of the war department I here inclose, packets\n        No. 1. which contains the last letters I have received from Gen. Wayne. vz. one private of the 27 June and one of the 28, with copies of two letters to the general and one to the Quarter master general.\n        No. 2. Contains the last communications from the commissioners to the Creeks, by which you will perceive, that (after a few embarrasements[)] the treaty had commenced.\n        I shall mention to you in my next the inquiries which I have made relative to running the Cherokee boundary line.\n        With respect to agents for the trading houses to be erected,\nyou will see by the inclosed letter from the Secry of the treasury, that he does not think money can be furnished in all this year for the purchase of goods. It will of course be unnecessary at this time to make appointments.\n        Mr Dinsmore who is agent to the Cherokees, and a sensible and judicious man, and who receives one thousand dollars salary, may perhaps be considered as adequate to all the duties of superintendant required to be performed under the existing state of things.\n        I shall as the mail is about closing take the next oppertunity to be more full on both these subjects. With the greatest respect I have the honour to be Sir Your most ob. st\n          James McHenrySecy of war", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0272", "content": "Title: From George Washington to John Dandridge, 11 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Dandridge, John\n          Mount Vernon 11th July 1796.\n        I have received, at this plac\u27e8e,\u27e9 your letter of the 23d Ulto; but long after the date of it. whether occasioned by neglect in the Post Offices, or by its having made a journey to Philadelphia & back, I know not.\n        With respect to the Negroes\u2014Frederick, George, Burwell & Pleasant\u2014I have no objection to your taking them with you to your new habitation; Provided you can arrange matters with your Mother to her \u27e8en\u27e9tire satisfaction. I shall set no Price on them, because it is not probable I shall ever avail myself, or heirs, of that property in your Mothers possession.\n        Your brother Bat\u2019s conduct is too Enigmatical for me to develope. I have conjecture only to resort to, for a solution of it: and as that might prove erroneous I shall say nothing concerning the causes, further than that I have no charge to make against his honesty or fidelity\u2014and that his sudden and abrupt departure was not occasioned by any difference between us\u2014and further that I had no more suspicion of his intention to leave me (until he was gone & left a line informing me thereof) than you had. His first letter to me (four days after he had left the family) requested I would harbour no unfavorable opinion of him; intimating, that when he was more composed, he wd write me more fully and give some explanation of his conduct. A second, & a third letter has been received from him since (dated at Greenbrier Court House) without doing this, but expressing an inclination to return to his former station\u2014which cannot be\u2014as another Gentleman has taken his place. If, however, I can render him any service I shall do it chearfully as I always entertained and continue to entertain a favorable opinion of his integrity and abilities. With best regards to your Mother & other friends I am\u2014Dear Sir Your Obedt Servant\n          Go: Washington\n          P.S. Since closing this letter your Brother Bat has arrived here\u2014and as he is writing to you, or some other of his friends\u2014I shall refer you to his own explanations which ought to be the most accurate.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0274", "content": "Title: To George Washington from David Stuart, 11 July 1796\nFrom: Stuart, David\nTo: Washington, George\n          Hope Park [Va.] July 11th 1796\n        I am informed by Mr Lyon whom I found at my house on my return home on Saturday, that Mr Dawson passed through Ge: town on friday, on his way to Philadelphia\u2014This is the second visit he has made there in the space of three months. Mr Lyon further says, from the extraordinary speech Dawson made last fall, which you have heard, no doubt is entertained by people in\ngeneral that a correspondence is carried on by his means with the French Court. My motive in informing you of Dawson\u2019s jaunt is, that you may judge of the propriety of writing to some persons in Philadelphia, to watch his conduct, and those with whom he associates. Perhaps it might be usefull that the Post Master, or his Clerks should attend to the direction of his letters; tho\u2019 it is probable that those intended for France will be entrusted to the French Minister alone\u2014Governor Brooke I learn from Mr Lyon, was allso to have gone to Philadelphia about the close of the Session of Congress; but could not get accomodated with money for his journey, tho\u2019 he was bold enough to try the unjustifyable expedient with which you was charged by the calm Observer of raising it by an anticipation of his salary, which he says has been severely noticed in some of the Richmond papers. I am with great respect Your Affecte Servt\n          Dd Stuart.\n          P:S: If there be any reality in the opinion, that a correspondence is held by any party in this country with France, I think it probable at this time, that their dispatches will contain the result of their deliberations, and their future plan of operations\u2014It is allso I think not improbable that Dawson may visit his friend Mr Burr.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0275", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Collen Williamson, 11 July 1796\nFrom: Williamson, Collen\nTo: Washington, George\n            Honourable Sir\n            City of Washington July 11th 1796\n          I should not have given you the Trouble of writing you, hade it not been to shew how far Ignorance hase got the better of knowledge and experence, in this city as to the public business your Excelency will see by my contract with the commissioners that I was In general to conduct the work, and when it was proposd to build the inside of the extereor walls with bricks I was deciddly against, that method of building, and told the commissioners that was never done but in countrays where stone could not be got, and that bricks hade not the weight and solidaty of stone for the out side walls, besides it would run them into some thousand pounds of expences extra, and for my good advice in comming from the commissioners out of georgeton Hoben told me if the commissioners or me should contradict him in the least he should not serve, and Encedently he established one of my Journaymen in my place at the presedents House, when I told the commissioners they sent me to superentend the capatol, where I continued till the 27th of aprile last year, beeing working by the parch it was hard for me to get the work properly don, I compleand to the commissioners of the trouble I hade with those workmen they employed mr Scott told me at their first meating I should have a letter empowring me to discharge such of them as did not attend to my orders, but instade of this power at their first meeting I got a letter of Dismission, and the work Intrusted to those very vegbons that hade nather honour or honesty to lose, two of the commissioners beeing strangers Carral and Hoben got the better of their Judgment in order to gett placess for those of their own way of thinking as they call themselves Catholeeks\u2014I have been at some pains investegating the difference of expence between brick and stone work by the parch, in the capatol the insid of the outer walls amounts to 3408 parches at 500 bricks for each parch, the present price of 500 bricks 26 sh. 3d or 7 dollars pr 1000 the\n              price of 3408 parches at 26 sh. pr parch\n              the price of the parch of stone of the above number of parches as the ricks Laid down on the pleace at 9 sh. pr parch\n              in favour of the stone\n          there would \u00a31000 saved by the lime for laying the said stone that would be too tedeous to give the reasons the above work is suposd to be 40 feet in hight and 3 feet thick a third deduc[t]ed for the spans of doors and windows\u2014the presedents house suposd to be 30 feet high above the first storry and 3 feet thick the third of the solid measure deducted for doors and windows as to ma[t]ereals\n              the measurement Remaining as to the number of parches at 26 sh.\n              at 26 sh. pr parch of brick work\n              the same number of parches of stone laid down on the spot at 9 sh. pr parch\n              In favour of stone at the presedents House\n              The ballance one the above two buildings besids at least \u00a31000 extra for lime\n          When this is considred with 8 or 10 thousand pounds thron away at the Capatol by my dismision it will be thought, no winder that the money should be short, besides all that I have said I would have saved mor then my sellary to the Intrest of the city by tempering of the morter amongst the multitude of my operations in Scotland I repaired four old castels that was liker to pleaces of defence then Dwelings for great men I got more knowledge by their long standing as to morter then otherwayes I should ever hade, the morter that was blak as earth with sand was hard as stone, the fat morter soft as chalk which taught me that lime is only cement to sand, I send this merly for your excelencys privet infore mation as I have not the least Doubts but the laws of the state will give me the sellary contracted for. I am Honourable Sir with great Respect your exelency obedent servnt\n            Collen Williamson\n          Copy of the contract dated Agust 29th 1792\n          It is agreed between Collen Williamson and the commissioners of the Federal Buildings That the said collen Williamson will superentend the stone cutting in the city of washington for the public Buildings and other matters that he may from Time to\nTime be Desired by the commissioners and the laying the same stone and such parts of the masonry as his attention and skill may be thought necessary or useful in and will afford his assistance in the hiring stone cutters and adjusting their accounts and in general in promoting and conducting the work for which services the said Williamson is to be paid four Houndred pounds Maryland money that is in Dollars at 7/6 each by the year and if any travling expence should be incurred by Jurnes to the stone quarres or other of the public Business such expences are Also to be paid beyond the yearly compensation the year to begin the first Day of this Instant the said Williamson having incurrd expences in attending for some time past\n                  Witness presant\n                  signed Thomas Johnston\n                  Collen Williamson\n          The Copy of a letter addressed to me in New york dated the 12th aprile 1792.\n          Sir your Kinsman John Suter has communicated to us your letter to him of the 18th of last october we want to employ twenty stone cutters perhaps more in preparing stone for the public Buildings in the new city some of them at least most be very good workmen the public buildings alon will requier a great deal of work and we hope and expect before that can be done privete Buildings will mak Avrie consideral Demand settled as you ar at the Distance of only afew days stage travle we think it will be best for you to come & have a conversation with us we ar inclined to employ you and those you get to work under you Things may be adjusted probaly to your intire satesfaction if not it will be better to have no begining to a connection under which you might probely be Dissatisfied.\n            signd the three commissioners\n          The copy of a se[c]ond letter when with the commissioners dated 10th may 1792.\n          The intercourse the commissioners have hade with mr Williamson has given them hopes that they will not be obliged to go farther but that they may have the stone cutting under his direction and that they may probaly derive further assistance from him in the present state of things the commissioners request mr Williamson not to enter into any extensive or lasting\nengagement they propose to give him information of the expected Resolution as soon as it is taken that he may be able to calculate the number of hands nec[e]ssary and be in the way of providing them the forgoing communication is made at the request of the commissioners I being sent to the quarres to see them and to have my opinion of the stone this letter was delivered by mr Carral the other two hade gon off before my Return from the quarres.\n            Signes Danl Corral\n          Whether true or false, it hath been reported thy told your excelency that there was no Contract Subsisting between the commessioners and me, lett the letters and contract speak for them selves as I have faithfully performd the deutys on my part, hade I been guilty of any fault or breach of contract, an inv[e]stigation should have taken place and if found falty Dismissed me acording to law, but as they could advance nothing against me they would dow it by arbetary power, somthing lik a court of inqueisision and when they found that I was to sew for my wages they began to strik hard at the Root of my abletys, but these second causes will not serve their purpose, I could mak it apear by the first storry of the presadents House that there is not apiec of better work any where acording to the stile of it, and as I was not p[e]rmited to derect it farther, no bleam can be laid to my Charge, the first or second day of agust I will demand my sellary and if not complyd with I am desird to send a copy of the contract and letters to anoplas wher I expect Justice.\n          I have said before that this is merly for your excelencys privet information as I dow not chous to commit to writing what I know how the public hath been served.\n            Collen Williamson\n            I intended to have built all the walls with stone both extereor and intereor which at least would savd twenty thousand pounds and the work much better but I was oblidged to yeald to ignorance.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0276", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 11 July 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n          Philadelphia July 11th 1796.\n        I have had the honor to receive your letters dated the 4th and 6th instant addressed to me as Secretary of the Treasury, & the private letter of the 6th\u2014The question arising under the act concerning seamen is a perplexing one. My original impressions were not unlike those of the Attorney General\u2014namely, that the defect in the Law ought to be supplied by construction, & as no proof was specified in the Law, reasonable proof was to be presumed as intended. a draft of instructions to the Collectors was framed upon this idea; but there being some diversity of opinion, the point being novel & difficult & the opinion of counsel decided, I renounced my project of executing the law as erroneous. Either of the proposed modes would accomplish the views of the Legislature, but that ought to be preferred which would furnish the least ground for captious criticism.\n        The suspension of the appointment of Mister Davis will be attended with no kind of inconvenience, what I wrote in his favor was not owing to any intimation from him. Since the president\u2019s letter was received I have had some general conversation with him; when he arrives at Boston he will inform whether the appointment would be acceptable under all circumstances. In the mean time enquiries will be made of his qualifications comparatively with those of others; at present I have no doubt that the appointment would be proper.\n        As soon as the act concerning quarantine was printed, copies, with an instruction to the Collectors were transmitted, requesting them \u201cto cooperate with the State authorities in giving effect to any regulations established by State laws, applying to the objects mentioned in the act.\u201d Governor Mifflin has only to\nsignify his wishes in respect to the mode in which the aid of the Revenue Officers is to be given, & they will be fulfilled. Of this he has been informed by the Secretary of State.\n        The measures for selling the new stock failed of success. I am now endeavouring to obtain a Loan of the Bank of New York, in which I have some reasons to expect a favorable result. Though my situation is very unpleasant & very different from what it ought to be, yet I feel a confidence that I shall preserve the public credit until an appeal can be made to Congress, who are alone responsible for these embarrassments. I feel a consciousness that all was done by me, at the last session, that could have been done with propriety by any person, & that in any event this can be made incontrovertibly evident.\n        If the President has not already decided on the appointment of a surveyor general, the name of Israel Ludlow will doubtless be presented to him. I have given Mister Ludlow a Certificate of what I know respecting him at his request. I believe him to be a man of sense & industry, & on enquiry of several persons I am informed that he possesses a good character. He would be an acquisition as a Deputy surveyor, but as he is a young man, & not much known, he appears to be hardly fit for the charge of a Department of such consequence. If a character of some celebrity & general estimation cannot be obtained, Mister Ludlow may be considered as an eligible candidate.\n        There is no intelligence that the Flying Fish has made any capture since the Mount Vernon. the alarm of French resentments is, however, still circulated: all the malcontents are uttering predictions of something terrible from France. A French emissary is said to have appeared at Portsmouth in New Hampshire, & his conversations as stated in the newspapers, concur with other accounts of the project already known to the President. The Secy of State tells me that Mister Adet remains silent on the subject of the explanation requested last week. As so much is threatened & so little done, there is room to hope that the mischief will end in a paltry intreague to excite discontent: the evidence of unfriendly intentions is however so strong, as to justify precautions on the part of the Government. If Mister Adet does not reply in a few days, it may be well to enquire whether an answer is to be expected; but this will deserve consideration. In haste, I remain with perfect deference &c.\n          Olivr Wolcott jr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0277", "content": "Title: To George Washington from the Commissioners for the District of Columbia, 12 July 1796\nFrom: Commissioners for the District of Columbia\nTo: Washington, George\n          Washington, 12th July 1796\n        We had the honor of your two Letters, first and eighth Inst., covering a letter from the Secretary of War (which is returned)\nand also the several papers to be forwarded to Messrs Willink of Amsterdam\u2014One complete set of those papers, with a [\u2003] of the power, signed by all of the Commissioners, will be forwarded to the Secretary at War by him, to be transmitted to Holland by fridays Mail\u2014We shall transmit a [\u2003] to Baltimore to be forwarded thence\u2014Since our last to you, we have had a Letter from the Secretary of the Treasury\u2014He gives no hopes of aid from the Bank of the United States, and Mr Clement Biddell, in a Letter of the 6th Inst., says, that no sales have been made of the new-Created Stock; and that there is no appearance of a Sale being effected, without a loss of 8 or 10 \u214c cent\u2014Such being the case, there can be no just expectation of receiving a supply through the Bank of the United States\u2014The bank of Columbia have agreed to lend us $40,000 for 6 months; to be advanced in 4 Installments of 10,000 Doll[ar]s \u214c month; the first payment to commence in Augt: the whole sum loaned, with 42,000 Dolls. heretofore loaned, to bear an Interest of 6 \u214c cent, & to be secured by our note, indorsed by at least, two unquestionable securities\u2014It remains for us yet to obtain them\u2014Some who have been applied to, have appeared rather backward\u2014We think, however, we shall be able to obtain the money: and that with rigid \u0153conomy, it will carry us to the first of December\u2014Morris & Nicholson have not yet appeared\u2014We expect Mr White down tomorrow, and in the course of the present Week, shall take some decisive measures respecting these gentlemen. We have the honor to be &c.\n          G. ScottW. Thornton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0279", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 12 July 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n          Treasury Department July 12th 1796.\n        I have the honour to transmit to the President two Letters from the Commissioner of the Revenue, dated the 8th & 11th Instant.\n        It appears to be expedient to entrust the inspection of the Lighthouse at Seguin to David Coney who is recommended by Genl Lincoln. Both Jonathan Coffin and Saml Coffin are well recommended for the appointment of Lighthouse keeper at Nantucket. The experience of Jonathan Coffin in this business is however a circumstance which may determine the preference in his favor. I have the honor to be &c.\n          Olivr Wolcott jr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0280", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 13 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: McHenry, James\n        Private\n          Mount Vernon 13th July 1796\n        The purport of your private letter, of the 7th instant (that part of it I mean, which relates to the Frigate for the Regency of Algiers) has surprised me exceedingly.\n        That no step yet, should have been taken to carry this measure into vigorous execution; and that it should be asked, near six weeks after it had been resolved to comply with the Deys request, and an actual stipulation of our Agent, or Agents there; by what Department it is to be carried into effect? is, on account of the delay which has been occasioned (if contrary to the Ideas which have been communicated to the Dey, & Colo. Humphreys) extremely unpleast.\n        Disagreeable as this requisition was found in its reception, and more so in the compliance with it; yet, as there appeared no other alternative but to comply, or submit to the\ndepredations of the Barbary Corsairs on our Citizens, and Commerce, the former was preferred: & I had no doubt (after pressing as often, and as earnestly as I did before I left Philadelphia, that all matters requiring my opinions, or Acts, might be laid before me) that every thing relative to this Frigate was in a perfect train of Execution, agreeably to whatever assurances had been given, by Captain OBrian.\n        If the Laws establishing the different Departments (I have them not by me) does not expressly, or by analogy, designate the one to which the care of such business is entrusted, I must, no doubt, assign it; but where these speak, it is best for me to be silent.\n        If the building of this Vessel could have been suspended until the meeting of Congress, for the Agency of the Senate, the answer to the Dey might have been suspended also. But to avert, if possible, the disagreeable consequences of delay, a prompt decision was come to; and Captn OBrian hurried off with the result. This decision, and the letters which he carried, ought to be resorted to; and the measures accorded thereto, strictly. Whether it will be best to purchase a Ship ready built, if one fit for the purpose can be had (and such an one on the Stocks at Philadelphia was talked of); Whether to contract for the building & equipping of one (some of the materials being found) if entire confidence can be placed in the Undertaker; or whether to furnish the materials (in which case all that can be spared from our own Frigates ought, unquestionably, to be applied) and pay for the building; depends upon enquiries not within my power at this time, and place to make; & must, therefore, be a matter of investigation, & consultation among yourselves; especially with the Secretary of the Treasury, on the means.\n        Before I conclude, let me, in a friendly way, impress the following maxims upon the Executive Officers. In all important matters, to deliberate maturely, but to execute promptly & vigorously. And not to put things off until the morrow which can be done, and require to be done, to day. Without an adherence to these rules, business never will be well done, or done in an easy manner; but will always be in arrear, with one thing treading upon the heels of another. With very great esteem and regard I am\u2014Dear Sir Your Affecte friend &ca\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0281", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 13 July 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          War office 13th July 1796.\n        I do myself the honour to inclose you the directions given to Mr Fox one of the clerks of the department of war, and well skilled in the quality of ship timber and construction of vessels of war relative to an examination of the materials on hand and such a disposition of them as may comport with the safe keeping of such as may be useful in future, and such as may be fit for the vessel contemplated for the mediteranean service. They have been approved of by the Secy of State and Secry of the treasury. With the greatest respect, I have the honour to be Sir Your most ob. st\n          James McHenrySecy of war", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0282", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 13 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n        (Private & confidential)\n          Mount Vernon 13th July 1796.\n        Yesterday, I was informed by a Gentleman from Richmond, that Mr Dawson was gone on to Philadelphia in order to embark for France; and about an hour ago, I received a letter of which the enclosed is an extract from a well informed acquaintance, & a stanch frd to his country.\n        What, or whether any thing can with propriety be done in consequence of this information, must be left to yourself and the two other Secretaries to decide, from circumstances, & appearances on the Spot.\n        It may not be amiss to observe further, that Mr Dawson is the Son in law of Mr Jones\u2014one of the Circuit Judges of this state, and, as I am informed, unfriendly to the Genl Government\u2014and that Mr Monroe is the Nephew of Mr Jones, & has his son with him in France. As every day brings fresh matter to view\u2014Vigilence, with caution becomes more & more necessary.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0283", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 13 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n        (Private)\n        I saw Mr Vaughan last evening, whom I had desired to ascertain Mr Adet\u2019s intentions relative to a journey to Mount Vernon. He had made some indirect enquiries, & is inclined to think the journey will be made, but suspended for four or five weeks. He\nwill endeavour to reduce the matter to a certainty, & give me the earliest information.\n        Last evening a Mr Bird, a London merchant, gave me a letter from Mr Pinckney, in which he expresses his regret at Mr Livingstons motion which induced your answer of the 30th of March, on which he adds \u201cThis answer appears to me to have been dictated by a just sense of propriety, and in the true spirit of the constitution.\u201d There is nothing beside in the letter to require its being forwarded to you. The inclosed letter addressed to you came with it.\n        No answer has yet been received from Mr Adet. I have the honor to be most respectfully sir your obt servant\n          Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0284", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 13 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State July 13. 1796.\n        In your last dispatches were received two patents passed by the Attorney General for your signature, which I now return for that purpose. I have also the honor to inclose a duplicate commission for John Trumbull Esqr. The original went by Mr King; and to be with perfect respect, sir, your most obt servant\n          Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0285", "content": "Title: From George Washington to John Marshall, 15 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Marshall, John\n          Mount Vernon 15th July 1796\n        I have received your letter of the 11th instant, and regret that present circumstances should deprive our Country of the services which I am confident your going to France, at this time, would have rendered it.\n        It is difficult to fill some offices with characters which would fit them in all respects. Another case of this sort is now before me\u2014namely\u2014that of Surveyor General. A gentleman well qualified to discharge the duties of this Office was appointed, but has declined accepting it. Several others have been mentioned, but the recommendations of them have gone more to the general respectability of their characters, than to their Scientific knowledge; whilst both are equally essential. For it is a trust, which in the execution, requires skill to arrange, instruct, Inspect, and report correctly, the conduct of others; and integrity to resist the temptation which opportunities, and an overweening fondness for speculating in Lands, may throw in his way.\n        Among the characters from the State of Virginia who have been presented to my view on this occasion\u2014are Generals Wood & Posey\u2014and Colonels Tinsley and Anderson; the last of whom is, I believe, an Inhabitant of Kentucky; and having been in that line, the presumption ought to be, that his Mathematical knowledge (which should extend beyond common Surveying) is adequate to the duties which would be required; but how he is in other respects, and what may be the course of his Politics, I know nothing; and but little of those of the other three\u2014particularly of Tinsley\u2019s.\n        The object therefore of writing this letter to you is, to ask confidentially, such information as you possess\u2014can acquire\u2014and give me, respecting the qualifications of these Gentlemen; or\nof any other fit character that may occur to you for Surveyor General; accordant with the ideas I have expressed above. The Office is important & respectable; of cour\u27e8se\u27e9 the Incumbent, besides his Scientific abilities, should possess a celebrity of character that would justify the appointment.\n        To learn your sentiments of the characters, and on the points I have mentioned, will be in time when I shall have the pleasure of seeing you, on your way to Philadelphia\u2014With very great esteem & regard, I am\u2014Dear Sir Your Obedient Servant\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0286", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 15 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State July 15. 1796.\n        Yesterday I received from the Minister of the French Republic an answer to my letter of the 1st instant, and have now the honor to inclose a translation of it. His entire ignorance of any new orders from his government relative to neutral vessels trading with the enemies of the French Republic, may authorize a conclusion, that none have been issued: and that the captures &\nappropriations (not condemnations) of the cargoes of American vessels carried into French ports in the West Indians, are the result of orders given by the Colonial administrations. This may be only a variation of the practice in use a year or two past, during which time they have actually compelled the delivery of cargoes for the use of government, with promises of payments within certain periods, which very often were so procrastinated as to induce the return of American vessels unpaid, after waiting six months or more for the performance of those promises. From the instances referred to in my former letter it seems probable that the administrations give due-bills without fixing definitively the times of payment.\n        Mr Adet asks whether the President has caused orders to be given to prevent the sale of prizes conducted into the ports of the United States by vessels of the Republic or privateers armed under its authority. On this I have the honor to inform you, That the 24th article of the British treaty having explicitly forbidden the arming of privateers and the selling of their prizes in the ports of the United States, the Secretary of the Treasury prepared, as a matter of course, circular letters to the Collectors to conform to the restrictions contained in that article, as the law of the land. This was the more necessary as formerly the Collectors had been instructed to admit to an entry and sale the prizes brought into our ports. On the 30th of June I received from Mr Liston, the British Minister, a Note mentioning the prizes which had been recently carried into Boston by a French privateer, and desiring that the sale of those prizes, which were British property, might be prevented. In consequence, I wrote the same day to Judge Lowell, Genl Lincoln, & to Mr Otis who had manifested a disposition to do the business of District Attorney until one should be appointed, desiring them to take such measures as were practicable to prevent an infraction of the above cited article of the British treaty. At the same time I wrote to the Chief Justice, Mr Elsworth, who had the same question discussed before him at his circuit court in So. Carolina, praying him to write to Judge Lowell immediately, to inform him of the determination in that case, presuming it to be the result of a full consideration of the subject. Thus the matter rests. I requested from the Chief Justice the like information; but have not yet received\nhis answer. The circular letter from the Secretary of the Treasury was confined, agreeably to the article of the British treaty, to the prizes brought in by privateers. With the highest respect I am, sir, your obt servant\n          Timothy Pickering\n          P.S. Since writing the above, the Secretary of the Treasury has given me a copy of his circular letter, which is inclosed.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0287", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Lathrop, Jr., 16 July 1796\nFrom: Lathrop, John Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n        The enclosed oration solicits your acceptance. The manner in which it was received by an assembly of more than 2000 freemen, is a fresh instance of the warm federalism of the inhabitants of Boston, their unabated attachment to your person, their decided approbation of your administration and their firm confidence in your wisdom and integrity. At the close of that part, which contains a faint tribute to your services, your patriotism and virtues, every voice and every hand united in the loudest acclamations and testimonials of applause. The partizans of faction are silent\u2014they hang their heads, overwhelmed with shame and confusion. The triumph of Merit is the severest punishment of Vice, and thus, it was reserved for you, Sir, to inflict the vengeance of heaven, upon the sons of lawless Anarchy. The very arrows, which they had aimed at you, have recoiled upon their own bosoms and become the instruments of their destruction. With sentiments of respect, gratitude and affection, as lasting and ardent, as they are inexpressible, I am, Your most humble, obliged and devoted Servant\n          John Lathrop, junr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0288", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 16\u201317 July 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        private.\n        I have just reced your private letter of the 13th inst.\n        I am sorry and vexed, that what I said in my letter of the 7th should have conveyed an idea that the least avoidable delay had taken place in the arrangements for the Algiers frigate; nothing like which was intended.\n        But the inclosed papers will shew you that every thing has been done which the case required.\n        You will see by Mr Pickerings letter to me, July 8th, No. 3, in answer to my note of the same date No. 2, which was written immediately after the receipt of letter No. 1. that the draught of the vessel was begun on the 29th Ulto. And you will perceive, by sketch A, digested by Mr Fox (the only clerk I have, who knows any thing of naval matters) that it required both thought and time to prepare it. The Sketch was not, consequently finished till the 8th inst., the day Mr Pickering mentioned to me (letter No. 1.) the necessity of sending Mr Fox on monday.\n        So far the business had been conducted by the Secry of State, to whom it belonged to furnish the dimensions of the frigate &c., agreeably to stipulations with the Dey; without which nothing could be by the department of war relative to her construction.\n        It now came before me on the 8th (letter No. 1). Accordingly, I framed instructions for Mr Fox (the same which I have transmitted you) and sent them the day following to Mr Wolcott for his perusal and correction, with a request to him to send them to Mr Pickering for the same purpose. Mr Pickering returned them to me on tuesday the 12, and on the 13th Mr Fox left this on his mission. I could have wished to have employed another\nperson, and had requested Mr Pickering to look out for a substitute, which he informed me in his letter of the 8th No. 1. was not to be obtained.\n        This detail will shew you, that the object has met with due attention from all parties, and, that what depended particularly on the department of war, was promptly attended to and executed.\n        Mr Fox\u2019s absence is a real loss to me. I have naval questions frequently to consider. I cannot draw Mr Humphreys from his duties to aid me. I work also with two clerks less than any of my predecessors, and am besides without the assistance of my chief Clerk, Mr Stagg, who is on a tour for the recovery of his health.\n        Notwithstanding this, I hope the business will not suffer. I mention too, because, as a child of your own, you must feel an interest in the course of my conduct, that I have endeavoured to follow the maxim you have laid down, which you have always, and so successfully practiced upon yourself; and that in consequence thereof I have subdued the business of the office; and am now able to meet the daily calls, and spare a little time occasionally to an examination of the permanent objects of the department.\n        I find the Indian department wants revisal; that new regulations in it are become necessary for the agents; and that the department of military stores, as it regards their safe keeping and distribution, has never been arranged or subjected to the rules which were devised when Mr Hamilton was in office, the principal of which appear to me extremely important. I am engaged in these considerations and inquiries, and as I complete the system for each shall lay it before you.\n          I called on Mr Adet yesterday. He had intended to have made you a visit, as he said, and is very much disappointed at not being able to accomplish it. He will have to go to New-London respecting masts for the West Indies, and has besides such an increase of West India business on hand as to shut out the hope of seeing you at Mount Vernon. I expressed to him; what I was sure would be your regret, on hearing that you could not see him with the other ministers; and added such other things as comported with your ideas on the subject.\n          I understand that Mr Adets reply to the Secy of States letter is evasive. I do not think however that the republic means to\nquarrel with the U.S.; or that she has issued orders to capture their merchantmen.\n          The case of the mount vernon is at least equivocal, and by very recent arrivals from the west Indies it would appear, that our trade there remained on the same footing as heretofore.\n          Had positive orders to capture or carry in for examination issued from the Directory, they would before this time have been in operation in the west Indies and upon this coast. You would moreover have been favoured with information from Mr Monroe, because to have given secrets would have quadrated with the system of opposition.\n          I consider, consequently, the information to Mr Hamilton, by a french client of his, which he communicated to you, as another Gallic trick, played upon him, that it might reach you, under the impression of his having credited it.\n          I have had nothing since my last communication to you from the West-ward. Volney it se[e]ms, is gone to watch the course of the winds. I hope we shall be able to know the result of his discoveries, before their transmission to the national institution. With the sincerest respect & attachment I am Sir your most obt hble\n            James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0289", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James Keith, 17 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Keith, James\n          Mount Vernon 17th July 1796\n        You will perceive by the enclosed letter from Mr Bushrod Washington to me, what is enjoined by the High Court of Chancery of this Commonwealth.\n        By Mr George W. Craik, I send in Bank Notes of the United States\u2014the Sum required to be deposited in the Bank of Alexandria, by the decree. Had I known of this decree before I left Philadelphia I could, & would have drawn the Specie for this purpose; and I think to avoid any caval hereafter, the receipt from the Bank of Alexandria ought to be expressed in such a manner as to imply this\u2014or rather not to imply the contrary; and this it may well do, for the presumption is, that this Sum will remain there long before the proper claimants are ascertained.\n        As Mr Craik is young in business, you would do me a favor by accompanying him to the Bank (in Alexandria) for the purpose of arranging this matter properly, at that place; thereby placing me on secure ground. I have directed Mr Craik to take a copy of the Decree; on the back of which it may be best, perhaps, to take the receipt from the Bank.\n        Not having the Will of Colo. Thos Colville by me; nor\nrecollecting distinctly where the relations of his Mother were said to reside; and being unacquainted with characters in Alexandria who would have it most in their power to cause the notification required by the Decree, to be inserted in \u201cSome public paper in the Kingdom of Great Britain for two Months\u201d thereby serving the parties, and fulfilling the intention of the Court; let me ask the favor of you to ingage, if you can hit upon a suitable person for this purpose, the doing it. Mr Hodgden some years ago, presented claims in behalf of some who conceived themselves entitled under the Will of Colo. Thos Colvill: and if in Alexandria, may be as eligible a character to apply to as any. With very great esteem and regard I am Dear Sir Your most Obedt and obliged Servant.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0290", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Harriot Washington Parks, 17 July 1796\nFrom: Parks, Harriot Washington\nTo: Washington, George\n        Aunt Lewis received a letter from my dear & Honor\u2019d Uncle a few days ago wherein he was pleas\u2019d to send me thirty pound also a great deal of good advice which I am extremely obleiged to you for and intend adhereing most strictly to it.\n        Beleive me my dear Uncle my heart will ever with the liveliest gratitude most gratefully acknowledge and remember your\u2019s & Aunt Washington\u2019s great goodness and attention to me and if my Uncle will only answer my letter and say he is not offend\u2019d at my Union (which took place yesterday Aunt Lewis\u2019s going immediately to Berkley to stay untill the fall & finding it not convenient to carry me with her wish\u2019d us married before she went) I shall be happy for after my dear Uncle\u2019s protection and kindness toward\u2019s me I should be a most miserable being to reflect that I had displeas\u2019d my greatest freind.\n        I shall take the liberty of troubleing my Uncle to return my thank\u2019s to Aunt Washington for the earings she sent me from Philadelphia which I received but a week ago from Berkley\u2014Aunt Lewis is much mend\u2019d & intend\u2019s answering your letter by the next post Aunt Lewis join\u2019s me in love to you and Aunt Washington. I am my dear @ Honor\u2019d Uncle your affectionate Neice\n          Harriot Parks", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0292", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 18 July 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        The annexed packets contain the most essential letters received since my last.\n        No. 1. Gen. Wilkinsons letters of the 11th, 16, 17th ulto. I have not thought it necessary to send the continuation of his charges which came by the same mail.\n        No. 2. Is copy of a letter to Major Gen. Wayne resulting from Gen. Wilkinsons information relative to Fort Miamis.\n        No. 3. A dispatch from Mr Seagrove and extracts of letters to Mr Habersham.\n        No. 4. A letter from Capn Bruff.\n        With the greatest respect, I have the honour to be, Sir your most ob. st\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0293", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 18 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n        Private\n          Mount Vernon 18th July 1796.\n        If there be any thing yet to do, which can with propriety be done, towards fulfilling the several Treaties which the United States have entered into (without specifically naming them) it is my desire that there may be no delay in the execution: and if upon examining of them carefully, any matters should be found therein requiring the attention of either of the other Departments, that these sentiments may be conveyed to the Secretaries thereof, as proceeding immediately from myself.\n        The new requisition of the Dey of Algiers, which has been yielded, will require to be laid before the Senate for its ratification; together with such Papers as are necessary to explain, and account for the measure. It might be well therefore to revise, and to prepare them accordingly, in time.\n        The continual attacks which have been, and are still making on the Administration in Bache\u2019s, and other Papers of that complexion (indecent as they are void of truth and fairness) under different signatures, and at present exhibited under that of Paulding; charging it not only with unfriendly, but even with unjust views towards France; and to prove it, resort to misrepresentation & mutilated authorities; and oftentimes to unfounded, but round assertions; or to assertions founded on principles which apply to all the Belligerent Powers, but which, by them are represented as aimed at France alone. Under these circumstances, it were to be wished that the enlightened public could have a clear & comprehensive view of facts\u2014But how to give it, lies the difficulty; and I see no method at present, however desirable the measure, that is not liable to objections; unless the predicted, & threatned conduct of France towds this country (under the pretext of our Treaty with G: Britain)\u2014or its demand, that the Guarantee of their West India Islands, agreeably to the Treaty of Paris, should be fulfilled, presents the occasion.\n        Whether either of these will, or will not happen; or whether any other mode may occur which, after mature consideration shall appear expedient or not, I wish that in your moments of leisure (if such you have) you would go most carefully & critically over the whole of the correspondence between the different\nSecretaries of State & the French Minister in this Country; & with our own Minister at Paris, from the Period matters began to change from the antient habits, & to assume their new form, in that country. If circumstances should render explanations of this sort expedient & necessary for Congress, a previous examination of the Papers with notes & remarks, will be essential. If they should not, the measure nevertheless will be satisfactory & useful. I would have the whole of the transactions, in all its direct, & collateral relations, examined with as critical an eye as Mr Bache, or any of his numerous correspondents or communicants would do; that if there is any thing in them (not recollected by me) that can be tortured into an unfriendly disposition towds France, & not required by the Neutral policy adopted by the Executive; approved by the People; and sanctioned by the Legislature: or which the Peace, honor & safety of this Country did not require, that I may be apprised of it, as my conviction of the contrary is strong.\n        I request also, that you would begin to note down all the subjects as they may occur, which may be proper to communicate to Congress at their next meeting; either at the opening of the Session, or by seperate messages in the course of it. Many things are forgot when the recollection of them are postponed until the period at which they are wanting. Minute details will not be amiss, because a selection will, at any time, be easier than a collection to make.\n        Your letter of the 8th instt did not reach my hands until the 13th\u2014nor did that of the 11th until the 15th. I mention these facts that you may know whether the delay has been occasioned by their not getting to the Post Office in time, or were detained at it. Other letters from Philadelphia of the same dates, came to hand two days sooner in both instances. With very great esteem & regard\u2014I am\u2014Dear Sir Yours\u2014always\n          Go: Washington\n          P.S. I am frequently receiving letters from Philp Wilson, similar to the one I now enclose. Let me request therefore, if his case admits of redress, that an attempt may be made to obtain it. If it does not, that he may be so informed, in explicit terms.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0294", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 18 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State July 18. 1796.\n        As soon as you had decided on the expediency of substituting a consul in the place of Mr Parrish at Hamburg, I requested Mr FitzSimons at Philadelphia, and Mr King at New-York, to enquire for a suitable person to succeed him. I also wrote to Mr Cabot at Boston making the same request. The two former gentlemen informed me that they found no fit character in Philadelphia or New-York. Last Friday I received the inclosed letter from Mr Cabot, strongly recommending Samuel Williams of Salem. His name did not occur to me, and if it had occurred, I should have hesitated to have originally presented it to you; tho\u2019 merely because Mr Williams is my nephew; for a man more trust-worthy or more able to execute the office of consul will not often be found. He is about six & thirty years old, was liberally educated, as soon as he left college engaged in mercantile business with his father, and ever since has pursued that course of life. He has been in Europe about three years, in France, in England, & I think at Hamburg. It seemed to me so very desirable to substitute an American Citizen to Mr Parrish, under the circumstances of his removal, that I feel myself happy in recommending a successor for the propriety of whose conduct I can undertake to be responsible. With the highest respect I am, sir, your most obt servant\n          Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0295", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John William Bronaugh, 19 July 1796\nFrom: Bronaugh, John William\nTo: Washington, George\n        I am anxious to make sale of some Lands given me by my Father on the great Kanhawa River, and having understood that you have lately had an offer of five dollars \u214c Acre for all your Lands in that country, have taken the liberty to enquire of you from whom this offer was made, I trust and hope if you have it in your power to give me any information by which I can effect a sale at the price above mentioned you will do it.\n        My Father wishes very much to take in his bond given you some years ago, he mentioned this to you in a letter last Fall, but as you were then at Philadelphia you mentioned you cou\u2019d not send it unless you were at Mount Vernon if it is not too much trouble, to come at this bond, will thank you to enclose it by the bearer. I am Sir, Yr mo. obt hume Servt\n          John W. Bronaugh", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0296", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 19 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n        (private)\n          Department of State July 19. 1796.\n        I was honored with your confidential letter of the 13th and showed it to the other two secretaries. Last Friday Mr Dawson called on the Secretary of War, and mentioned his being on a journey to the eastward, to contract for the manufacturing of five thousand stand of arms for the State of Virginia; and requested his information where he might apply without interfering with any contracts or operations of the U. States. The\nSecretary of War answered, that his acquaintance at the eastward was too imperfect to give him the information requested; but referred him to Mr Hodgdon (giving a note where to find him) who could amply satisfy him on that subject. Yesterday I asked Mr Hodgdon if any gentleman had been with him to get the information referred to: he answered, that no person had called upon him for such a purpose: but that a Mr Annely, a gunsmith of Philadelphia, had for three months past been making guns of a particular kind (smaller than the common musket) for the state of Virginia.\n        For the manufacture of arms, Pennsylvania has long been more celebrated than any state in the Union; & since the peace I have heard of no manufactory of arms in New-England, except at the public works at Springfield; and there, I recollect, the superintendant had to instruct the workmen, at the outset. The journey eastward (if Mr D. is gone eastward) is for some other purpose than that mentioned to the Secretary of war. I should not suppose Mr Dawson was going to France; at least not immediately: for the same day on which I received your letter, I received one from Joseph Jones Esqr. covering one for Mr Monroe, to be forwarded agreeably to a former request; it having been the practice in this office so to transmit Mr Jones\u2019s letters to Mr Monroe.\n        The Secretary of War told me that he wrote you yesterday, that he had seen the French minister, who said his business was so increased by the operations in the West Indies, that he should not have it in his power to visit you at Mount Vernon. With the highest respect, I am sir, your obt servant\n          Timothy Pickering\n          P.S. To-day I received a letter from Mr Monroe dated the 8th of April. He has obtained from the Directory permission for a Mr La-Motte, a Cannon Founder selected last autumn by Colo. Vincent, to come to the United-States. Mr Lamotte is making arrangements with Mr Monroe to come to the United States with his family. I shall hand the letter to the Secretary of War. The letter also informs that Colo. Vincent suggested that Engineers would be wanted, to construct works and to instruct our officers; \u201cif such are wanted, two of the first eminence may now be\nhad: one called [\u2003] has long been at the head of the French Academy for that science, in this city, and by his lectures laid the foundation of the education of many of those who are now distinguished in the field.\u201d These are Mr Monroe\u2019s words. The other gentleman is a Mr Sonolet, represented as a man of superior merit in that branch. Different views may be entertained of this very ready compliance on the part of the French government to furnish a cannon-founder agreeably to our request\u2014with the addition of two of their ablest engineers. In one, it may be considered as extremely friendly\u2014In the other as designed \u201cto draw closer the ties of fraternity\u201d between the two Republics, in the modern and democratic sense of the phrase; & particularly to promote the French interest on the secret plan of Mr \u2014\u2014.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0297", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 19 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n        (private)\n          Department of State July 19. 1796.\n        This morning I received the inclosed letter from Mr Dayton, expressing fully his opinion of Mr Israel Ludlow, whose application for the office of Surveyor General I had the honor lately to transmit to you. While it must be acknowledged that Mr Dayton is perfectly competent to pronounce accurately on the character of a man so well known to him as Mr Ludlow must be, it is proper for me to mention, that I have understood that he & Mr Ludlow have been closely connected in land affairs in the northwestern territory, where I believe Mr Dayton has speculated largely. In this very service Mr Dayton may have experienced Mr Ludlow\u2019s skill & fidelity to their common interest. This common interest may be further extensively promoted by the appointment of Mr Ludlow to the office of Surveyor General. This suggestion I respectfully submit to your consideration. At the same it may be doubted whether any very competent person for surveyor general can be found, who will not improve the opportunity presented by his station, of making or advancing his fortune in lands over the Ohio. If Congress intended to exclude the Surveyor General from any land \u27e8illegible\u27e9, his pay should have been so increased as to induce a proper character to submit to the restriction. The defect of compensation was a principal reason of Mr DeWitt\u2019s declining the office. I also recd to-day the inclosed letter from Robert Morris Esqr. the Judge of the District Court of New-Jersey, on the same subject. With the highest respect, I am, sir, Your obt servant\n          T. Pickering.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0300", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 20 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n          Mount Vernon 20th July 1796.\n        Your letters of the 12th & 13th instant, with their enclosures, were received by Mondays Mail, the 18th.\n        The duplicate Commission for John Trumbull; the blank Commissions for the Revenue Officers; and the Patents passed by the Attorney General; are all signed & returned under cover with this letter.\n        The want of funds to carry on Commerce with the Indian\nTribes (agreeably to a late Act of Congress) is an unanswerable objection to the appointment of Agents, at this time, for that purpose. And in addition to the reasons you have assigned for not appointing a Superintendent of Indian Affairs, in place of Governor Blount; and for Postponing running & marking the line between the United States and the Cherokee Nation of Indians, the want of Power\u2014in the President\u2014to appoint Commissioners to attend the Survey; and a successor to the other, would, I conceive, appear upon investigation; as the first would be an original appointment\u2014and the latter, did not take place in the recess of the Senate. It follows then of course, that these measures must stand suspended, and the best temporary uses made of the present situations, and Services of Colo. Henly and Mr Dinsmore that the nature of things will admit.\n        Not knowing myself, the purport of the German letter herewith enclosed, and having no body about me that can translate it, I send it to you for this purpose; in order that I may know what attention to give it.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0301", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 20 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n        (private)\n          Department of State July 20. 1796.\n        Last evening, about nine o\u2019clock, when sitting in my office, the Messenger brought me a letter from Mr Monroe. When going to open it, I found it had already been broken open, but the broken edges of the paper had been slightly fastened again by introducing some pieces of wafer. The original sealing, as usual with Colo. Monroe\u2019s letters, was with wax. The wife of the Messenger went to the door and received the letter. The bearer of it asked if I lived here; she answered that I did not, but was then in the office, and asked if he wished to see me. He said it was no matter, if the letter was safely delivered to me. She took the letter, returned to her room, gave it to her husband who immediately brought it to me.\n        Upon my enquiries she informs me that the man who brought the letter was 30 or 40 years old, appeared sun-burnt as if he had just come off a journey, and his cloaths, particularly his linen, looked dirty, as seemed common in such case. His speech was plainly English, like that of a Virginian, philadelphian or New Englandman, without any semblance of French or any other foreign language. She had a light in her hand, and saw nothing in the man\u2019s countenance or deportment that indicated any concern, like what might be imagined to result from a consciousness of guilt or impropriety of conduct.\n        The letter is dated the 2d of May, and the cover had on it, in the usual place of franking, the name of Mr Monroe, written with his own hand. The superscription was in the same\nhandwriting with the letter of the 8th of April, mentioned in the postscript to one of my letters accompanying this. That letter of April 8th has on it the post office mark of Alexandria\u2014thus \u201cAlex. 15 July.\u201d\n        No part of the letter of May 2d is in cypher. It is on the subject of the explanation which was to take place between Mr Monroe and the Minister of foreign affairs, agreeably to the orders of the directory; and is accompanied by the complaints of the latter (in French) & Mr Monroe\u2019s answer. The French shall be translated, and I will do myself the honor to transmit the packet by the next post. The complaints are not of the formidable nature to have been expected after all the solemn advices concerning them which have been received from Mr Monroe. In short, I should be disposed to apply to this affair the trite fable of the mountains being in labour and bringing forth a mouse. Most respectfully your obt servt\n          Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0302", "content": "Title: From George Washington to John William Bronaugh, 21 July 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Bronaugh, John William\n        Letter not found: to John William Bronaugh, 21 July 1796. Bronaugh wrote GW on 9 Aug.: \u201cYours of the 21st July I have received\u201d (see Bronaugh to GW, 19 July, n.2).", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0303", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 21 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n        (Private)\n          Department of State July 21. 1796.\n        I received this morning your favour of the 18th. The subjects of it shall have all the attention of which I am capable. De la Croix exhibition of the causes of complaint from the French\nRepublic against the \u201cgovernment\u201d of the U. States (which you will receive with Colo. Monroe\u2019s answer in my public letter of this date) will place you at ease with respect to that country. The statement is as feeble as could have been desired; and serves to confirm the suspicions some months since entertained, that the ominous letters of Mr Monroe composed a part of a solemn farce to answer certain party purposes in the U. States. The fifteen sail of the line (as announced in the anonymous letters) and an envoy extraordinary, just to shew himself, make a declaration and return, were to begin the second act. The defeat of the British treaty, and perhaps a change in our own administration, & possibly a war, were to make up the catastrophe.\n        The delay of the letters you refer to I suppose to be in getting to the post office, owing probably to a difference in the clocks. A letter which I wrote on Monday last, & sent off a quarter before ten, will also be delayed. In future I will (as I do now) take the precaution of writing the day preceeding, when it shall be practicable. I am most respectfully sir your obt servt\n          Timothy Pickering.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0304-0002", "content": "Title: Enclosure: Statement from the French Republic, 9 March 1796\nFrom: \nTo: \n            Paris the 19th ventose 4th year of thefrench Republic; one and indivisible(=9 march 1796)\n          Summary statement of the complaints of the French\n          Republic, against the Government of the United States.\n          1st Complaint.\n            The inexecution of the Treaties.\n            1. The courts of Justice of the United States have taken cognisance and still take cognisance of the prizes which our privateers conduct into their ports, notwithstanding the express\nclause of the Treaty against it. Our ministers have proposed various arrangements for limiting these usurpations. The federal Government had itself proposed measures on this subject\u2014the first propositions were not accepted, and the latter measures fell into disuse. The disgusts, the delays, the losses resulting to our seamen from such a State of things, are palpable. They almost entirely deprive the Republic of the advantages which it should expect from this article of the Treaty.\n            2. The admission of English ships of war, even in cases where they are excluded by the 17th article of the Treaty, that is, when they have made prizes on the Republic or on its citizens. The weakness with which the federal Government conceded this point in the first instance has increased the pretentions of Great Britain, and now the ports of the United States have become a station for the squadron of Admiral Murray, who for two years past has there victualled his Ships, in order to cruize on the american Commerce, and to pillage our property. This division carries its audacity even to the conducting thither its prizes.\n            3. The Consular Convention, forming a part of our treaties, is equally unexecuted in its two most important clauses. The first granting to our Consuls the right of judging exclusively in disputes arising between frenchmen, is become illusory, for the want of laws giving to the Consuls the means of having their decisions executed. The consequence of this inability tends to annihilate the prerogative of our Consuls, and materially to injure the interest of our merchants. The second gives to our consuls the right of causing our mariners who desert to be arrested. The inexecution of this part of the Convention affects beyond all expression, our maritime service, during the stay of our vessels in the american ports. The Judges charged by the laws with issuing the mandates of arrest, have lately required the presentation of the original Roll of the Crew, in contempt of the 5th article, admitting in the Tribunals of both powers copies certified by the Consul. Local circumstances in a thousand instances oppose the production of the original Roll\u2014and then the seamen are not liable to be apprehended.\n            4th The arrestation in the port of Philadelphia, in the month of August 1795, of the Captain of the Corvette the Cassius, for acts committed by him on the high Seas. This is contrary to the 19. article of the treaty of commerce, which stipulates \u201cThat the\nCommanders of public, and of private vessels shall not be detained in any manner.\u201d Besides it violates the most obvious law of nations, which places the Officers of public vessels under the safeguard of their Flag. The United States have had sufficient proofs of deference on the part of the Republic, to count upon its Justice in this instance. The Captain was imprisoned, notwithstanding the Consul of the Republic produced bail. Scarcely was he set at liberty, when the Corvette, altho\u2019 very regularly armed at the Cape, by General Lavaux, was arrested (and it appears she is still so) under pretext, that, eight months before, she sailed from Philadelphia, suspected of having armed in that port.\n            2d Complaint. The impunity of the outrage committed on the Republic in the person of its minister, the Citizen Fauchet by the English ship (Africa) in concert with the vice Consul of that nation.\n            The arrestation in the waters of the United States of the Packet boat having Citizen Fauchet on board, the search made in the Trunks of that minister, with the avowed object of seizing his person and papers, merited an example. The insult was committed on the first of august 1795 (old style) the Ship all the rest of the month blocked up the medusa frigate belonging to the Republic at newport, and did not receive orders to depart till after the sailing of that vessel. For a new outrage on the United States by a menacing letter, the Exequatur was withdrawn from the Consul merely for having taken a part in the latter insult.\n            3rd Complaint\u2014The Treaty concluded in November 1794 between the United States and Great Britain. It will be easy to prove that the United States in this treaty have knowingly and evidently sacrificed their Connections with the Republic and the most essential and least contested prerogatives of neutrality.\n            1st The United States, besides having departed from the principles established by the armed neutrality during the war for their independence, have given to England, to the detriment of their first allies, the most stirling mark of an unbounded condescension, by abandoning the limit given to contraband by the law of nations, by their treaties with all other nations, and even by those of England with the greater part of the maritime powers. Is it not evidently straying from the principles of neutrality to sacrifice exclusively to that power, the objects proper for the equipment and construction of vessels?\n            2. They have gone still further. They have consented to extend the denomination of contraband even to Provisions. Instead of pointing out particularly, as all treaties do, the cases of the effective blockade of a place, as alone forming an exception to the freedom of this article\u2014they have tacitly acknowledged the pretentions raised by England to create blockades in our Colonies and even in france by the force of a bare proclamation.\n            This abandonment of the independence of their commerce, is incompatible with their neutrality. Mr Jefferson has himself acknowledged it in his letter of 7th September to the minister plenipotentiary of the United States at London, on the subject of the order of the 8th of June 1793. From this confession\u2014especially from all the tyranical Edicts of the King of Great Britain, from which the commerce of the United States as well as their national honor have suffered so much, a result quite different was hoped from Mr Jay\u2019s negotiation. It is evident by the clause of the treaty limiting the existence of this desertion from neutrality to the duration of the present war, that Mr Jay did not hesitate to sacrifice our Colonies to Great Britain, during the remaining hostilities which should decide their fate. Mr Monroe is left to judge how far these concessions accord with the obligation contracted by the United States to defend our Colonial possessions, and with the no less sacred duties imposed on them by the immense and invaluable benefits, which they draw from their commerce with them.\n              The minister for foreign affairsCh. De la CroixFaithfully translated from the original byGeo: Taylor Jr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0305", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 21 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State July 21. 1796.\n        On the receipt of your letter directing the mode suggested by the attorney general, of obtaining passports by American seamen, to be carried into effect, I communicated the same to the Secretary of the Treasury. We were both of opinion that the circular letter of instructions to the Collectors of the Customs would more properly be signed & transmitted by him than by me; the collectors being officers under the immediate\nsuperintendance of the Secretary of the Treasury; who was moreover required, by the act for the relief & protection of American seamen, to transmit it to the collectors. We believed the attorney general did not advert to this established arrangement; and persuaded that the adoption of the prescribed mode of executing the law, and not the medium of conveying your directions to the collectors, was the object of your solicitude, it was concluded that the signing & transmitting of the circular letter, containing those directions, should devolve on the Secretary of the Treasury. Were this to be done by the department of State, much inconvenience would result: for doubts will arise, in the progress of the business, & explanations be sought for: which will require an extended correspondence with a numerous set of officers between whom & the Secretary of State there is no relation. For these reasons we trust the course we have pursued will meet your approbation. With the highest respect I am, sir, your obt servt\n          Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0306", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 22 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: McHenry, James\n        (private)\n          Mount Vernon 22d July 1796.\n        Your private letter of the 16 came to my hands at the same time that your official one did of the 18th.\n        From what is there said it appears by the enclosures, I am satisfied no unnecessary delay respecting the Algierine frigate has taken place. From a former one, & perhaps from a solicitude to execute promptly whatever is entrusted to me, I had conceived otherwise.\n        As I have Mr Liston here, & the house full of other company, I shall only add that I am, what you will always find, Yr &c.\n          G. Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0311", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Wilhelm Louis Wernecke, 24 July 1796\nFrom: Wernecke, Wilhelm Louis\nTo: Washington, George\n          at Mrs HickingbottomNo. 116. North front StreetPhiladelphia July 24th 1796\n        I take the Liberty to Address your Excelence Concerning the affair that I waited on your Excelence four weeks ago with Mr Graff as my Nominated Gaurdian, and Mr Erdman as Interpreter, at which time your Excelence was pleased to promise\nAsistance in geting the Estate of my Uncle Col. Wernecke, deceased in Posession according to your Excelence Direction.\n        I waited on Mr Nottnagle in order that he might Assist me, but during your Excelence absence Mr Nottnagle turned his Back on me and even left the Sity, it is said he is gone to Long-Island for his Health, I am at present in A very poor Situation I have neither Money nor friends, Mr Graff holds the Writings Still, I cannot get them, He lives high upon my Property in German Town, while I am in want of Bread And have been Obliged to serve A Farmer on the Ridge road for Subsistance, I should be very happy if I could have an Oppertunity once more of Speaking to your Excelence, as I am of Opinion that Mr Graff & Mr Nottnagle are United in keeping me out of my right, I have here Inclosed the Copy of A Letter from Ebenezer Stott, to Mr Nottnagle as A clearer Explanation of the Affairs, upon which I Ernest Intreat your Excelence advice how to proceed in the Affair, Which shall be greatfully Acknowledged by Your Excelence most Humble servant\n          Wilhelm Louis Wernecke", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0312", "content": "Title: To George Washington from de Beaulieu, 25 July 1796\nFrom: Beaulieu, de\nTo: Washington, George\n            My General\n          As I know your kind heart, I put myself into your hands, I like better to address myself to God than to his Saints. My Wife is taken away from me as a second Penelope indeed with some modifications, for it is because we have been under an obligation all last Winter till now, that She is tore from my Arms: great Gods! Such are the virtuous men of our age! If I was born of low conditioned Parents, I would be used to hard labors and I could make out for myself or at least I should know a trade which I would make use of. but having been only a Cultivator in the Colonies, and deprived of every thing which I possessed, I am in extreme want, and I address myself to your good heart. I cannot go back to my home, because the flag Vessels carry over only Women and old Men. perhaps some new sacrifice will be made of them: as it happened at the last disturbances of the Cape. I was not here when you had shared the World: and in consequence I have not an Inch of ground. if some pieces of land were remaining uncultivated near some City I should bless you all the moments of my life if you would do me the honor of admitting me amongst those who have the happiness to live under Your laws: for I possess nothing at all but tenderness for\nmy Wife, who expresses to me her satisfaction of joining again with me, if I could procure her an easy existence.\n          I make vows for the conservation of Your precious days and I am\u2014very great and mighty General, president & Dictator with very great respect Your very humble obedient Servant\n            (signed) debeaulieu\n          living at Baltimore on the road of the point in a Wooden house.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0313", "content": "Title: To George Washington from La Rochefoucauld-Liancourt, 25 July 1796\nFrom: La Rochefoucauld-Liancourt, Fran\u00e7ois-Alexandre-Fr\u00e9d\u00e9ric, duc de\nTo: Washington, George\n        I should ought apologise for my Liberty in writing to you, when I am deprived from the advantage to be known of you, and when political considerations have made you thinking, I should not to be introduced to you, at my arrival in this country. but my apology for that liberty, shall be found in the motive of this Letter.\n        Unfortunate La fayette\u2019s friends & relations send to me those two enclosed Letters, which he wished should be Communicated to me, & which I receive only now at my returning from the Southern States. those friends are wishing, I should present them to you; they wish I could converse with you about the ways to make end to the long and cruel captivity of that honest man. I know some persons, & namely generous dr Bolman, have discoursed with you on that subject. I know also, that, should La fayette\u2019s name have not been pronounced to you by any, invariable constanc\u27e8y\u27e9 of your friendship to him, should never Let you forgetting his dreadful situation, and without thinking for the most proper way of being serviceable to the friend, whose you appreciate the merits, & whose you know the misery. However,\nso superflous it may be, I call your attention upon him, you will judge, that dut\u27e8y\u27e9 being prescribed to be, it should be a fault to me if I was to not acquit my self of it. and if my particular affection to La fayette, makes me looking at that duty as a more imperious one, you\u2019ll excuse me for it. besides my Letter to you being yet unknown at every one, its inconveniency is limitated to the trouble youll have in reading of it. by Mrs Lafayettes Letter to gnl ferrary, youll see how barbarous is the rigor of the treatement she receives, \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 treatement she received in robespierres prisons, during sixteen months, seems mild to her remembrance. you are, certainly acquainted, with the audience granted by the Emperor to Mrs de lafayette on her passage in Vienna. & you know, when she implored of him her husbands liberation Emperor answered to her, his own hands were tied up on that subject, and Mr De Lafs. liberation being out of his own power. you know Emperors ministers, less reserved a little, than their master had been, did pronounce to her that if His Imp. Maj. should be to grant Mr delaf.\u2019 liberation even if the watch upon him to prevent his escape were Less rigourous, Emperor should then became object of diffidence to his own ally, the King of England: and you have, Sir, unquestionably concluded, with all of those who are acquainted with those authentical answers, that, the part of Lafy. conduct by which, his fetters have been forged, & are now daily rivetted, is not his participation to the french revolution, but only his participation to the American revolution, his unbounded devotion to the Cause of Liberty & independency of the United States. that is the very real crime never to be forgotten, by the King of England, and on account of which only la fayette is plunged in a dungeon.\n        youll read, sir in Laf.\u2019 Letter to Mr bolman & huger how, Confident as he is in your friendship and in the kindness of american nation, he relys upon his title of american Citizen. youll read how, being by the circumstances deprived as he is from the \u27e8illegible\u27e9 country, he depends firmly upon his right to be claimed by that to the Cause of which he \u27e8had de\u27e9voted his youth, and which he has served with all his heart & means, and youll observe, Sir Laf. being ignorant, when he wrote that Letter, that a so honorable employment of his first years, is the \u27e8unic\u27e9 motive of his actual Captivity, by which; if longer, his Life even shall be Lost. youll find, also, by that Letter how Confident he is in dr bolman\u2019s\nactive mind, & courageous generosity, proper, as he thinks, to help \u27e8usefully\u27e9 your good \u27e8sensations\u27e9 to him, and the interest of his fellow citizens.\n        I should look at myself, as acting improperly, \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 even hurting your feellings, if I was to urge you, Sir, either in the name of Lafes friends & relations, even as in his own to employ all the means you can, for \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 his liberty and Life. the man, whom you have seen, embracing with a so compleat devotion, as your\u27e8self\u27e9, the Cause which places you among the greatest men, the man who should have expose his life, to make your safe, & to contribute to your glory, the man, whom you have judged deserving the title of your friends and to whom that honorable title seems the more precious ornament; the man whose the Son receives from you the proofs of a paternal affection, such man can not be unfortunate and you without employing youself very \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 for making his misery to be terminated. and if political considerations, (which deepness I can not be judge of,) are to stop you, in the \u27e8public\u27e9 proceedings, you & american nation who has adopted La fayette, could do with a so great ability in his favor, you are \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 so miserable, as he is himself. I will per\u27e8mit myself\u27e9 only to repeat once more, that Lafes life, shall not resist to his captivity, if it is to be Longer and also that, if his cherissed wife, & childrens\u2019 Company, are of great comfort to him in his gaol, the wiew of inhum\u27e8ane\u27e9 treatement they received for their devotion to him, is a continual subject of sorrow and despair to your frien\u27e8d\u27e9 Some words I have exchanged with Mr bolman on the berckley County\u2019s road, Let me suspecting, those two Lett\u27e8ers\u27e9 could have been presented to you already: but I am n\u27e8ot\u27e9 sure enough of it, to \u27e8illegible\u27e9 not risk to send you them on\u27e8ce\u27e9 more.\n        you should have yet read in the public papers, Mrs Laf. Letter printed. I should blame \u27e8dissimulation\u27e9 by which I should \u27e8illegible\u27e9 be prevented to \u27e8Confess\u27e9 you, I did myself make that Letter published. in all parts of america, where I have travelled and I have been almost in all State of the Union, I heard Mr de Laf. name pronounced every where almost with so much of \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 friendship & interest, as I heard your own pronounced with respect, admiration confidence & affection. that Letter\u2019s publication seemed to me proper to keep alive the deserved disposition. and I did not see any inconveniency in it. very strange\n\u27e8illegible\u27e9 both by my situation and mental disposition, from any political Circumstance, I am & never shall be so, stra nge to the duties of friendship. and should I be Less friend of Laf. than I am, I should look at me as obliged only by the duties of Humanity to ressemble all means in my power to alleviate his misery.\n        Sollicited to \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 those Letters, I send them to his direction, without Letting him know I have the honor to write to you. I am Sir with the greatest respect for your eminent qualities your most humble & most obt \u27e8servant\u27e9\n          La Roche\u27e8foucauld\u27e9 Liancourt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0314", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 25 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: McHenry, James\n          Mount Vernon 25th July 1796\n        The enclosed letter from Mr Landais, transmitting one from you to him, was received by the last Post.\n        Filling the vacancies in the Corps of Artillery, before the adjournment of the Senate, was suggested; but why, as it was not proposed by the military Act, that it should undergo any diminution, it was not done, my memory does not serve me.\n        If there are more Cadets in that Regiment than Mr Landais, and there are not some distinguishing circumstances between his case & theirs, no discrimination, even if the authority in the recess of the Senate was competent, can be made in his favor notwithstanding his desires and the peculiarities which are detailed in his letter. I send it however that you may consider the case & report thereon.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0315", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 25 July 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        I here inclose a dispatch received on saturday from the Southward, containing a letter of the 27th ulto from James Seagrove; one of the 30th from Benjn Hawkins; and one of the 1st instant from the commissioners for treating with the Creeks, with a copy of the treaty concluded at Coleraine on the 29th of June ulto and a protest by the Georgia commissioners.\n        I shall on the papers being returned give them due consideration, and report to you such measures as may appear necessary to be taken relative to their objects. With the greatest respect, I have the honour to be Sir your most ob. st\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0316", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 25 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n        Private\n          Mount Vernon 25th July 1796\n        Your private letters of the 19th 19th, and 20th instant have been duly received.\n        The request of Mr J. Jones, to forward his letter to Colo. Monroe, is opposed to the speedy departure of Mr D\u2014\u2014 for France; and yet the Gentleman who gave me the information spoke of it as a matter not doubtful: but added indeed (a circumstance I did not mention in my former letter) that it was on Mr Swan he leaned for money; and possibly, if that Gentleman is at Boston, this may be the occasion of Mr D\u2014\u2014\u2019s journey to that place; under the pretext of contracting for Arms.\n        Was Colo. Monroe requested to engage a Cannon founder on behalf of the United States? If so, on what terms? To remove a Person with his family, will be attended with considerable expence; and unless with condition to secure his services, it will be done under great uncertainty. With respect to the Engineers, policy requires a further developement of the unfavorable disposition with which we are threatned, before any encouragement ought to be given to the measure. But even if that objection was fully removed, there are no funds (within my recollection) that\nwould enable the Executive to incur the Expence. therefore, as a Law must precede, in this case, any Executive Act, the answer to the quere is quite easy & plain.\n        I am continuing, and extending my enquiries for a fit character to fill the Office of Surveyor General, without any great prospect of doing it to my satisfaction. Mr Ludlow, besides what is mentioned in your letter (which requires attention) has not, according to my ideas of him, celebrity of character; and is of too short standing in the Community to fill an Office of so much importance from its trusts, and the abilities and integrity which is required, tho\u2019 deficient in compensation; unless by means which ought to be prevented.\n        It is much to be regretted that you did not discover the broken seal of Mr Monroe\u2019s letter, to you, before the departure of the bearer of it; that an attempt\u2014at least\u2014might have been made to trace the channel thro\u2019 which it had passed; and thereby (if proofs could not have been obtained) to have found ground for just suspicion. You confine the Post mark of Alexandria to his letter of the 8th of April; had you included that also of the 2d of May, I would have caused enquiry to have been made at that Office with respect to the appearance of the letters when they went from thence.\n        I am glad to find that more smoke than fire is likely to result from the representation of French discontents, on account of our Treaty with Great Britain. Had the case been otherwise, there would have been no difficulty in tracing the effect to the cause. And it is far from being impossible, that the whole may have originated in a contrivance of the opposers of the Government, to see what effect such threats would Work; and finding none that would answer their purpose, and no safe ground to stand on, if they pushed matters to extremity, the matter may terminate in gasconade. Be this as it may, the Executive have a plain road to pursue; namely, to fulfil all the engagements which his duty requires. Be influenced, beyond this, by none of the contending Parties; maintain a strict neutrality, unless obliged by imperious circumstances to depart from it; Do justice to all; and never forget that we are Americans; the remembrance of which will convince us, that we ought not to be French or English. With great esteem & regard, I am always and Sincerely Yours\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0319", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 26 July 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        The agent of the department of war in Tenessee having requested that the vacant office of deputy paymaster and store keeper might be filled up; and it appearing, that Mr Henley the agent cannot go through the business himself; and if he could,\nthat it would be improper, inasmuch as it would center in one person, 1st. the keeping and distribution of stores, and 2dly the power to determine the sum due upon a claim, and to pay it.\n        I inclose you therefore a rough draught of instructions for the deputy pay master and store keeper; a draught of a letter to the agent of the department of war; and copy of the instructions of 1793 to the deputy pay master and store keeper when the office was instituted.\n        You will perceive wherein these instructions vary from those of 93; and the reasons (without my suggesting them) which have induced to the creation of further checks upon both the Principal & Deputy.\n        I have thought of a Mr Hillis for Deputy who writes in the accountants office. As he has been employed there in the settlement of Col. Henley\u2019s accounts, he understands of course the train of business in that quarter and the general objects of expence; and besides is very well recommended. If you should approve of him to fill the office (on looking over his recommendations) you will be pleased to mention it; and to return the draught of instructions, and letter designed for the agent, with such alterations as you may think proper.\n        I have this moment received your letters of the 22d inst.\n        Mondays mail carried you the result of the meeting of the Creeks at Coleraine. Considering the aspect of things in that quarter, perhaps you may conceive it expedient that one of the companies of dragoons should be directed to join Col. Gaither. In the mean while, and that no time may be lost, should you so determine, I shall write to Gen. Wayne to hold one of the companies in readiness to march thither at the shortest notice.\n        I should expect, that the presence of this company on the frontiers of Georgia would render it unnecessary to employ the one hundred militia dragoons which are kept up at the Expence of the U.S.\n        I have also received this morning the inclosed letter, and representation from the officers at West-point, praying that Lt Geddis may be released from his arrest.\n        On this subject I would observe, That the act passed last session of Congress fixing the military establishment of the U.S. contains the following section.\n        Sect. 18. \u201cAnd be it further enacted that the sentences of\ngeneral courts-martial, in time of peace, extending to the loss of life, the dismission of a commissioned officer; or which shall, either in time of peace or war, respect a general officer, shall with the whole of the proceedings in such cases, respectively, be laid before the President of the U.S.; who is hereby authorised to direct the same to be carried into execution or otherwise as he shall judge proper.\u201d\n        This clause was incorporated into the act in order to remove some doubts heretofore started respecting the power of the President to pardon certain military offences in time of peace.\n        For my own part, I have no doubt, that independent of this act, the President possesses the power to remit sentences of courts martial extending to the loss of life or dismission of a commissioned officer I consider that part of the act therefore as surplusage.\n        If however it was to serve as authority it would not apply to the present case; inasmuch as it has had no retroactive effect given to it. The sentence on Geddis was pronounced on the 16th of May; and the act in question passed on the 30th.\n        I look to a higher authority for the power of the President to remit sentences of courts-martial.\n        The constitution art. II. sect. 2. constitutes the President [\u201c]commander in chief of the army and navy of the U.S.\u201d and vests him with \u201cpower to grant reprieves and pardons for offences against the U.S., except in cases of impeachment.\u201d\n        Congress cannot pass any regulations for the government of the land and naval forces which may intrench upon, invalidate or nullify this power to pardon offences against the United States.\n        If this is a true exposition of the constitution, the President may if he should think proper comply with the request in favour of Lt Geddis. With the greatest respect, I have the honour to be Sir Your most ob. st\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0320", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 26 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State July 26. 1796\n        In the letter with which you honored me, bearing date the 27th of June, your expressed your approbation of John Davis, the late Comptroller, to be appointed to the office of District Attorney of Massachusetts, provided his professional knowledge (of which you had no correct information) should be deemed adequate to the discharge of its duties, and he would place himself in a situation to render them conveniently to the public.\n        I was hence induced to write to Stephen Higginson, Esqr. of\nBoston, a private letter, requesting him, by enquiring among gentlemen of law-knowledge, to ascertain Mr Davis\u2019s professional talents. Mr Higginson\u2019s answer I received yesterday, and have now the honor to inclose. I also wrote to a nephew of mine in Boston for the same information; and his answer corresponds with Mr Higginson\u2019s. Both being so decidedly in favour of Mr Davis, I have this day transmitted to him his commission; it appearing to the Secretary of the Treasury & to me, upon comparing your letters to us, that you desired no delay in the commissioning of Mr Davis, when we should be satisfied of his professional abilities. With the highest respect I am, sir, your most obt servant\n          Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0321", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 27 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n          Mount Vernon 27th July 1796\n        Your two letters\u2014both bearing date the 21st instant\u2014with their enclosures, were received by the last Mail to Alexandria.\n        It would have been unfortunate, and much indeed to have been regretted, if the French government had had as great cause of complaint against the conduct of the United States, as they\nhave shewn a disposition to complain. It was natural to expect, tho\u2019 it was not easy to conceive on what ground, the French discontents, which had been so often announced\u2014accompanied with such terrific threatnings\u2014chiefly by anonymous writers, that the formal exhibition of them under the authority of the Directory, by their Minister of Foreign Affairs, would have had something serious, formidable, and embarrassing in their appearance; instead of which, most, if not all the charges seem to have originated either in a misinterpretation, or from want of attention, to Treaties and the Law of Nations; or to the want of a just, and timely representation of facts, with accompanying explanations; which our Minister near the French government had it in his power, and was directed to make.\n        Presuming that Mr Polanen is regularly accredited by the proper authority of the existing government of the United Netherlands, I see no cause\u2014accordant with the principles which have actuated the government of the United States\u2014why, when I return to Philadelphia he should not be received as the Minister Resident of that Country. And if no objection (unknown to me) should occur to you, Mr Polanen may be so informed. My arrival there will be by the first of September.\n        Instructions from the Treasury department to the Collectors, relative to the mode of obtaining Passports by American Seamen, will certainly be as effectual, and probably is as proper, as if they had issued from the Department of State; and this was my opinion to the Attorney-General: But he observed, first, that it was not in any respect connected with the Revenue of the Country. And 2dly that there were some other Provisions in the Law (I do not now recollect of what nature) that required the Agency of the Department of State. I am satisfied, however, with the Circular which has been adopted; as the design will be equally well answered by it.\n        The original papers, forwarded with your last dispatches, are herewith returned.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0323", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 27 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State July 27. 1796.\n        On the 25th I received letters from Colo. Humphreys dated April 30. May 30. & June 1. accompanied by a large packet from Mr Barlow at Algiers. The substance of the information respecting the pending treaty with Algiers is, That Mr Donaldson had gone to Leghorn, with orders from Mr Barlow to transmit two hundred thousand dollars to Algiers, which would procure the redemption of our captive citizens\u2014That Mr Humphreys had sent to Mr Donaldson at Leghorn a letter of credit for 400,000 dollars; and in case he failed of obtaining the half of that sum, Colo. Humphreys authorized Mr Barlow to draw on Bulkeley & Son at Lisbon for 200,000 dollars payable at sight, so as to ensure the liberation of our prisoners within the three months allowed by the Dey; but with his explicit opinion that no part of it should be paid unless the captives were released. From these arrangements, it seems to me highly probable that our fellow citizens will now recover their liberty; & that the payment of the gross sum of 200,000 dollars will so far soothe the Dey as to prolong his patience until the original stipulations and the new one for the frigate can be accomplished.\n        Altho\u2019 the Dey\u2019s disappointment in not receiving the stipulated sums, on Mr Barlow\u2019s arrival, put him into so violent a rage as to render all applications fruitless, yet after some days he sent notice to Mr Barlow that he was willing to receive him as the Consul of the U. States, & desired him to bring his Consular presents. Mr Barlow readily complied. The presents were distributed to the Dey & his grandees. The Dey in return presented Mr Barlow with a fine Barbary stallion. Cathcart writes that Mr Barlow gives great satisfaction, & is respected by every one who knows him. This admission of Mr Barlow as Consul, with the distribution of the Consular presents, cannot fail to have a favourable influence on the affairs of the United States at Algiers. And from his information of the customary and periodical delivery\nof Consular presents, it does not appear that it will occasion any material extra expence to the U.S.\n        Mr Barlow\u2019s packet contains long and interesting details of the nature of the algerine government, whence results the fickleness of its measures, and its frequent breaches of peace with the Christian states, on the most trifling and unreasonable pretexts. Because the armed vessels of the King of Naples carried into his port a Danish vessel having on board 320 Turkish soldiers bound from the Levant to Algiers, the Dey ordered his cruisers immediately to bring in all the Danish vessels they could meet with. In a few days about a dozen were captured & brought in; and their fate remained undecided. Mr Barlow details divers instances of breaches with other powers: whence he concludes that on an average we might count on a renewal of hostilities with ourselves once in six years. But the expences of renewing thus after our treaties with that regency, may be willingly incurred, when the commercial profits of the Mediterranean trade are taken into view. Of one and the other Mr Barlow has given estimates, which, with his observations on the commerce of that part of the world, manifest much information and that good sense for which he is distinguished.\n        Mr Barlow describes the policy and utility of forming commercial & friendly relations with the Italian States, with Austria on account of her great trading port of Trieste, and with the Grand Seignior. Colo. Humphreys concurring in these ideas (so far as respects the Grand Seignior he has formerly expressed the same) strongly recommends Mr Barlow as the fittest person for the negociator; particularly with the Turk, under the countenance of France; Mr B. being a French as well as American Citizen. Mr Barlow would cheerfully engage in these enterprizes; and I am now inclined to think it would not be easy to find another person equally qualified for these negociations.\n        As these matters do not demand an immediate decision, I imagined it would be acceptable to you to receive this general account of the contents of the dispatches from Colo. Humphreys, & that the perusal of these would be more agreeable to you on your return to philadelphia. I have the honor to be, with the highest respect sir, your most obt servant\n          Timothy Pickering.\n          P.S. Colo. Talbot expected to sail yesterday or the day before for the West Indies.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0324", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, 27 July 1796\nFrom: Pinckney, Charles Cotesworth\nTo: Washington, George\n          Charleston [S.C.] July 27th 1796\n        Duplicates of your two favours of the 8th of July I received this morning; the originals are not yet arrived. Tho\u2019 my affairs have not hitherto been arranged as I could wish them, the manner in which you state our political situation, & the Interests of this Country as they relate to France, obliges me to accept your appointment without hesitation. I am only apprehensive that your friendship has been too partial to the little merit I may possess, & that the matters intrusted to me may fail through my want of ability. You may however depend that what talent I have, shall be diligently exercised in performing the objects of my mission, & promoting, as far as I can, the honour & interest of our Country. I will endeavour to arrange my affairs in a fortnight or three weeks, & shall then proceed with Mrs Pinckney by the first Vessel for Philadelphia, where I hope to return you thanks in person for all your kindness to me, & to assure you that I always am with the sincerest regard & the highest veneration, Esteem, & attachment Your affectionate & obliged Sevt\n          Charles Cotesworth Pinckney", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0325", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Churchman, 29 July 1796\nFrom: Churchman, John\nTo: Washington, George\n          Union Street PhiladelphiaNo. 31\n        With pleasure do I acknowledge to have received from the President of the United States the honour of a Letter dated 10th September 1792. enclosing two other introductory ones to the American Ministers at the courts of Paris & London.\n        I take the Liberty to say that my new universal work on the Variation of the Compass being presented to the National Convention in France, they sent the same to the committee of public Instruction, who referred it to the Bureau des Longitudes, & altho both of these Bodies have made flattering reports on the project, I hardly expect the Nation will explore the places of the two magnetic points untill the conclusion of peace, & I have to lament that the war which broke out between two great maritime powers soon after my departure from my native country has continued ever since. Nevertheless I rejoice to have had an opportunity to make a multitude of observations, at Sea & Land, & I hope these will serve to prove how near the principles may be reduced to practice.\n        Having spent some time & money in an affair which I still suppose will be highly useful to mankind, I now apprehend it may not be amiss to apply myself to some kind of Business, & I must confess that Business connected with my favourite pursuits would be the most agreeable.\n        Understanding that an Act has passed providing for the sale of Lands of the United States in the Territory North West of the River Ohio, & above the mouth of Kentucky River, & several\nother laws that may require actual surveys, It would give me pleasure to render some service to my country & myself in some way or other, & I hope to be excused when I hint at the diffidence which I can not help feeling when I introduce this subject. this is a task I could not have attempted at present had I not yesterday understood that the Surveyor general had resigned. With the greatest sentiments of respect, I hope to be permitted to make an offering of my service & esteem\n          J. Churchman", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0326", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 29 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n        (private)\n          Department of State July 29. 1796.\n        About noon to-day Mr John Churchman, who has been these two or three years in Europe, on account of his supposed discoveries relative to the variation of the Magnetic Needle, called at the office. He came last from Bourdeaux, and was the bearer of Mr Monroe\u2019s letter of the 2d of May. I told him it had been broken open; & after a few questions, asked him to give me a certificate of the circumstances which attended his receipt of it; and offered him pen, ink & paper to write it; unless he chose to do it at home. He said he would go home, and call himself at five in the afternoon (if that hour was convenient to me) as the matter required some consideration. He called at five accordingly; and then told me (with some emotion) that he thought it best to be candid; for he could not think of giving a certificate that might excite suspicions of innocent people\u2014He had himself broken the seal, tho\u2019 by mere accident; and as soon as he discovered his mistake, closed the letter again without reading it. He handed me a letter from his friend in London (a quaker) inclosing the copy of a diploma, in Latin, given him by order of the Empress of Russia, declaring him a member of the Russian Academy of Sciences. This letter he recd thro\u2019 Mr Monroe; and by the same channel expected to receive the diploma itself. When therefore, at the point of his embarkation at Bourdeaux for America, he received a letter from Mr Monroe addressed to him, and within the cover, another of a size likely to contain the diploma, without looking at the superscription, he broke the seal. He hoped this inadvertence would be excused; and especially as he was careful to deliver the letter with his own hand: it was he who called & delivered it in the evening, as mentioned in my former letter. This account having all the marks of truth & candour, I begged him to give himself no further uneasiness about it; promising to communicate the explanation to you.\n        I then entered into conversation with him about his travels in\nFrance, and the sentiments of the French people towards America, & particularly the government; and as he had been so long in France, whether he had observed any material change of sentiment, especially on account of the treaty with Great-Britain. He answered, That he had observed no material change; that very little was said by Frenchmen about the treaty\u2014tho\u2019 much was said against it by the American Citizens in Paris. With the highest respect I am sir, your most obt servt\n          Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0327", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 29 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State July 29 1796.\n        I was yesterday honoured with your letter of the 25th and agreeably to your directions have had a commission made out for Samuel Williams to be Consul of the U. States at Hamburg, & now inclose it for your signature. I will take care to advise Mr Monroe of the appointment.\n        The untoward situation of the Cannon foundaries last year, excited apprehensions that the Contractors might fail of furnishing such as were fit for our frigates. Numerous essays had been made at both furnaces, and with little success. On my representing this to you, and the probability of obtaining a capital founder from France, you gave your approbation of the measure. It will certainly be the interest of this country to secure by liberal pay the services of such a man as Mr La Motte is represented to be; and his intention to come with his family I think a favourable circumstance, as it looks towards a permanent residence here as his future country. I supposed that a cannon foundary would compose an important part of our arsenal establishment; and that the presence of an accomplished founder would be essential to its most perfect construction.\n        I will inform Mr Monroe, that already possessing some engineers which are competent to our present undertakings, and there being no legal provision for others, we cannot invite any gentlemen of that profession from France. With the highest respect I am sir your most obt servt\n          Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0328", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 30 July 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n        I have the pleasure to send you herewith a certan draft which I have endeavoured to make as perfect as my time and engagements would permit\u2014It has been my object to render this act importantly and lastingly useful, and avoiding all just cause of present exception, to embrace such reflections and sentiments as will wear well, progress in approbation with time, & redound to future reputation\u2014How far I have succeeded you will judge.\n        I have begun the second part of the task\u2014the digesting the supplementary remarks to the first address which in a fortnight I hope also to send you\u2014yet I confess the more I have considered\nthe matter the less eligible this plan has appeared to me\u2014There seems to me to be a certain awkwardness in the thing\u2014and it seems to imply that there is a doubt whether the assurance without the evidence would be believed\u2014Besides that I think that there are some ideas which will not wear well in the former address, & I do not see how any part can be omitted, if it is to be given as the thing formerly prepared. Neverthe[le]ss when you have both before you you can better judge.\n        If you should incline to take the draft now sent\u2014and after perusing and noting any thing that you wish changed & will send it to me I will with pleasure shape it as you desire. This may also put it in my power to improve the expression & perhaps in some instances condense.\n        I rejoice that certain clouds have not lately thickened & that there is a prospect of a brighter horison. With affectionate & respectful attachment I have the honor to be Sir Yr very Obed. Serv.\n          A. Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0329", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Paine, 30 July 1796\nFrom: Paine, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n        As censure is but awkwardly softened by apology, I shall offer you no apology for this letter. The eventful crisis to which your double politics have conducted the affairs of your country requires an investigation uncramped by ceremony.\n        There was a time when the fame of America, moral and political, stood fair and high in the world. The lustre of her revolution extended itself to every individual; and to be a citizen of America gave a title to respect in Europe. Neither meanness nor ingratitude had then mingled itself into the composition of her character. Her resistance to the attempted tyranny of England left her unsuspected of the one, and her open acknowledgment of the aid she received from France precluded all suspicion of the other. The Washington of politics had not then appeared.\n        At the time I left America (April 1787) the continental convention that formed the federal constitution was on the point of meeting. Since that time new schemes of politics and new distinctions of parties, have arisen. The term Antifederalist has been applied to all those who combated the defects of that constitution, or opposed the measures of your administration. It was only to the absolute necessity of establishing some federal authority, extending equally over all the States, that an instrument, so inconsisent as the present federal constitution is, obtained a suffrage. I would have voted for it myself, had I been in America, or even for a worse rather than have had none; provided it contained the means of remedying its defects by the same appeal to the people by which it was to be established. It is always better policy to leave removeable errors to expose themselves, than to hazard too much in contending against them theoretically.\n        I have introduced those observations, not only to mark the general difference between antifederalist and anti-constitutionalist, but to preclude the effect, and even the application, of the former of those terms to myself. I declare myself opposed to several matters in the constitution, particularly to the manner in which,\nwhat is called the Executive, is formed, and to the long duration of the Senate; and if I live to return to America I will use all my endeavours to have them altered. I also declare myself opposed to almost the whole of your administration; for I know it to have been deceitful, if not even perfidious, as I shall shew in the course of this letter. But as to the point of consolidating the States into a federal government, it so happens, that the proposition for that purpose came originally from myself. I proposed it in a letter to Chancellor Livingston in the spring of the year 1782, whilst that gentleman was minister for foreign affairs. The five per cent. duty recommended by Congress had then fallen through, having been adopted by some of the States, altered by others, rejected by Rhode Island, and repealed by Virginia after it had been consented to. The proposal in the letter I allude to was to get over the whole difficulty at once, by annexing a continental legislative body to Congress; for, in order to have any law of the Union uniform, the case could only be, that either Congress, as it then stood, must frame the law, and the States severally adopt it without alteration, or, the States must elect a Continental Legislature for the purpose. Chancellor Livingston, Robert Morris, Governeur Morris and myself had a meeting at the house of Robert Morris on the subject of that letter. There was no diversity of opinion on the proposition for a Continental Legislature. The only difficulty was on the manner of bringing the proposition forward. For my own part, as I considered it as a remedy in reserve, that could be applied at any time, when the States saw themselves wrong enough to be put right (which did not appear to me to be the case at that time) I did not see the propriety of urging it precipitately, and declined being the publisher of it myself. After this account of a fact, the leaders of your party will scarcely have the hardiness to apply to me the term of antifederalist. But I can go to a date and to a fact beyond this; for the proposition for electing a Continental Convention to form the Continental Government is one of the subjects treated of in the pamphlet Common Sense.\n        Having thus cleared away a little of the rubbish that might otherwise have lain in my way, I return to the point of time at which the present Federal Constitution and your administration began. It was very well said by an anonymous writer in Philadelphia, about a year before that period, that \u201cthirteen staves and ne\u2019er\na hoop will not make a barrel,\u201d and as any kind of hooping the barrel, however, defectively executed, would be better than none, it was scarcely possible but that considerable advantages must arise from the federal hooping of the States. It was with pleasure that every sincere friend to America beheld, as the natural effect of union, her rising prosperity; and it was with grief they saw that prosperity mixed, even in the blossom, with the germ of corruption. Monopolies of every kind marked your administration almost in the moment of its commencement. The lands obtained by the revolution were lavished upon partizans; the interest of the disbanded soldier was sold to the speculator; injustice was acted under the pretence of faith; and the chief of the army became the patron of the fraud. From such a beginning what could be expected, but what has happened? A mean and servile submission to the insults of one nation, treachery and ingratitude to another.\n        Some vices make their approach with such a splendid appearance, that we scarcely know to what class of moral distinctions they belong. They are rather virtues corrupted, than vices originally. But meanness and ingratitude have nothing equivocal in their character. There is not a trait in them that renders them doubtful. They are so originally vice, that they are generated in the dung of other vices, and crawl into existence with the filth upon their back. The fugitives have found protection in you, and the levee-room is their place of rendezvous.\n        As the Federal Constitution is a copy, not quite so base as the original, of the form of the British government, an imitation of its vices was naturally to be expected. So intimate is the connection between form and practice, that to adopt the one is to invite the other. Imitation is naturally progressive, and is rapidly so in matters that are vicious.\n        Soon after the Federal Constitution arrived in England, I received a letter from a female literary correspondent (a native of New York) very well mixed with friendship, sentiment and politics. In my answer to that letter I permitted myself to ramble into the wilderness of imagination, and to anticipate what might hereafter be the condition of America. I had no idea that the picture I then drew was realizing so fast, and still less that, Mr. Washington was hurrying it on. As the extract I allude to is congenial and with the subject I am upon, I here transcribe it.\n        Impressed, as I was, with apprehensions of this kind, I had America constantly in mind in all the publications I afterwards made. The first, and still more, the second part of Rights of Man bear evident marks of this watchfulness; and the Dissertation on First Principles of Government goes more directly to the point than either of the former. I now pass on to other subjects.\n        It will be supposed by those into whose hands this letter may fall, that I have some personal resentment against you; I will therefore settle this point before I proceed farther.\n        If I have any resentment, you must acknowledge that I have not been hasty in declaring it; neither would it be now declared (for what are private resentments to the public) if the cause of it did not unite itself as well with your public as your private character, and with the motives of your political conduct.\n        The part I acted in the American revolution is well known; I shall not here repeat it. I know also that had it not been for the aid received from France in men, money and ships, that your cold and unmilitary conduct (as I shall shew in the course of this letter) would, in all probability, have lost America; at least she would not have been the independent nation she now is. You slept away your time in the field till the finances of the country were completely exhausted, and you have but little share in the glory of the final event. It is time, sir, to speak the undisguised language of historical truth.\n        Elevated to the chair of the Presidency you assumed the merit of every thing to yourself, and the natural ingratitude of your constitution began to appear. You commenced your Presidential carreer by encouraging and swallowing the grossest adulation, and you travelled America from one end\u2014to the other, to put yourself in the way of receiving it. You have as many addresses in your chest as James the II. As to what were your views, for if you are not great enough to have ambition you are little enough to have vanity, they cannot be directly inferred from expressions of your own; but the partizans of your politics have divulged the secret.\n        John Adams has said (and John, it is known, was always a speller after places and offices, and never thought his little services were highly enough paid) John has said, that as Mr. Washington had no child, that the Presidency should be made hereditary in the family of Lund Washington. John might then have\ncounted upon some fine-cure for himself and a provision for his descendants. He did not go so far as to say also, that the Vice Presidency should be hereditary in the family of John Adams. He prudently left that to stand upon the ground, that one good turn deserves another.\n        John Adams is one of those men who never contemplated the origin of government, or comprehended any thing of first principles. If he had, he must have seen that the right to set up and establish hereditary government never did, and never can, exist in any generation, at any time whatever; that it is of the nature of treason; because it is an attempt to take away the rights of all the minors living at that time, and of all succeeding generations. It is of a degree beyond common treason. It is a sin against nature. The equal right of generations is a right fixed in the nature of things. It belongs to the son when of age, as it belonged to the father before him. John Adams would himself deny the right that any former deceased generation could have to decree authoritatively a succession of Governors over him, or over his children; and yet he assumes the pretended right, treasonable as it is, of acting it himself. His ignorance is his best excuse.\n        John Jay has said (and this John was always the sycophant of every thing in power, from Mr. Girard in America to Grenville in England) John Jay has said, that the Senate should have been appointed for life. He would then have been sure of never wanting a lucrative appointment for himself, or have had any fears about impeachments. These are the disguised traitors that call themselves federalists.\n        Could I have known to what degree of corruption & perfidy the administrative part of the government in America had descended, I could have been at no loss to have understood the reservedness of Mr. Washington towards me, during my imprisonment in this Luxembourg. There are cases in which silence is a loud language.\n        I will here explain the cause of my imprisonment, and return to Mr. Washington afterwards.\n        As my citizenship in America was not altered or diminished, by any thing I had done in Europe (on the contrary it ought to have been considered as strengthened, for it was the American principle of government that I was endeavouring to spread in\nEurope) and as it is the duty of every government to charge itself with the care of any of its citizens who may happen to fall under an arbitrary persecution abroad, and is also one of the reasons for which Ambassadors or Ministers are appointed,\u2014it was the duty of the executive department in America to have made (at least) some enquiries about me, as soon as it heard of my imprisonment. But if this had not been the case, that government owed it to me on every ground and principle of honor and gratitude. Mr. Washington owed it to me on every score of private acquaintance, I will not now say, friendship; for it has for some time been known, by those who know him, that he has no friendships; that he is incapable of forming any; he can serve or desert a man or a cause with constitutional indifference; and it is this cold hermophrodite faculty that imposed itself upon the world, and was credited for a while by enemies as by friends, for prudence, moderation and impartiality.\n        I had then been imprisoned seven months, and the silence of the executive government of America, Mr. Washington, upon the case and upon every thing respecting me, was explanation enough to Robespierre that he might proceed to extremities.\n        A violent fever which had nearly terminated my existence, was, I believe, the circumstance that preserved it. I was not in a condition to be removed, or to know of what was passing, or of what had passed for more than a month. It makes a blank in my remembrance of life. The first thing I was informed of was the fall of Robespierre.\n        About a week after this Mr. Monroe arrived to supercede Gouverneur Morris, and as soon as I was able to write a note legible enough to be read, I found a way to convey one to him, by means of the man who lighted the lamps in the prison; and whose unabated friendship to me, from whom he had never received any service, and with difficulty accepted any recompence, puts the character of Mr. Washington to shame.\n        In a few days I received a message from Mr. Monroe, conveyed to me in a note from an intermediate person, with assurance of his friendship, and expressing a desire that I would rest the case in his hands. After a fortnight or more had passed and hearing nothing further, I wrote to a friend who was then in Paris, a citizen of Philadelphia, requesting him to inform me what was the true situation of things with respect to me. I was sure that\nsomething was the matter. I began to have hard thoughts of Mr. Washington; but I was unwilling to encourage them.\n        In about then days I received an answer to my letter in which the writer says:\n        I was now at no loss to understand Mr. Washington and his new fangled faction, and that their policy, was silently to leave me to fall in France. They were rushing as fast as they could venture, without awakening the jealousy of America, into all the vices and corruptions of the British government; and it was no more consistent with the policy of Mr. Washington, and those who immediately surrounded him, than it was with that of Robespierre or of Pitt, that I should survive. They have however, missed the mark and the reaction is up themselves.\n        Upon the receipt of the letter just alluded to, I sent a memorial to Mr. Monroe which the reader will find in the appendix, and I received from him the following answer. It is dated the 18th of September, but did not come to hand till about the 10th of October. I was then falling into a relapse, the weather was becoming damp and cold, fuel was not to be had, and the abscess in my side, the consequence of these things, and of the want of air and exercise, was beginning to form and which has continued immoveable ever since. Here follows Mr. Monroe\u2019s letter.\n        The part in Mr. Monroe\u2019s letter in which he speaks of the President (Mr. Washington) is put in soft language. Mr. Monroe knew what Mr. Washington had said formerly, and he was willing to keep that in view. But the fact is, not only that Mr. Washington had given no orders to Mr. Monroe, as the letter stated; but he did not so much as say to him, enquire if Mr. Paine be dead or alive, in prison or out, or see if there is any assistance we can give him.\n        While these matters were passing the liberations from the prisons were numerous; from twenty to forty in the course of almost every twenty four hours[.] The continuance of my imprisonment, after a new minister had arrived immediately from America, which was now more than two months, was a matter so obviously strange, that I found the character of the American government spoken of in very unqualified terms of reproach; not only by those who still remained in prison, but by those who were liberated, and by persons who had access to the prison\nfrom without. Under these circumstances I wrote again to Mr. Monroe, and found occasion, among other things to say:\n        The case, so far as it respected Mr. Monroe was, that having to get over the difficulties which the strange conduct of Gouverneur Morris had thrown in the way of a successor, and having no authority from the American government to speak officially upon any thing relating to me, he found himself obliged to proceed by unofficial means with individual members; for though Robespierre was overthrown, the Robespierrian members of the Committee of Public Safety still remained in considerable force, and had they found out that Mr. Monroe had no official authority upon the case, they would have paid little or no regard to his reclamation of me. In the mean time my health was suffering exceedingly, the dreary prospect of winter was coming on, and imprisonment was still a thing of danger.\n        After the Robespierrian members of the Committee were removed by the expiration of their time of serving, Mr. Monroe reclaimed me, and I was liberated the 4th of November [1794]. Mr. Monroe arrived in Paris the beginning of August before. All that period of my imprisonment, at least, I owe not to Robespierre, but to his colleague in projects, George Washington. Immediately upon my liberation Mr. Monroe invited me to his house, where I remained more than a year and an half; and I speak of his aid and his friendship, as an open hearted man will always do in such a case, with respect and gratitude.\n        Soon after my liberation the Convention passed an unanimous vote to invite me to return to my seat among them. The times were still unsettled and dangerous, as well from without as from within, for the coalition was unbroken, and the constitution not settled. I chose, however, to accept the invitation; for as I undertake nothing but what I believe to be right, I abandon nothing that I undertake; and I was willing also to shew, that, as I was not of a cast of mind to be deterred by prospects or retro-prospects of danger, so neither were my principles to be weakened by misfortune, or perverted by disgust.\n        Being now once more abroad in the world I began to find that I was not the only one who had conceived an unfavourable opinion of Mr. Washington. It was evident that his character was on the decline as well among Americans as among foreigners of different nations. From being the chief of a government, he\nhad made himself the chief of a party; and his integrity was questioned, for his politics had a doubtful appearance. The mission of Mr. Jay to London, notwithstanding there was an American minister there already, had then taken place, and was beginning to be talked of. It appeared to others, as it did to me, to be enveloped in mystery, which every day served either to encrease or to explain into matter of suspicion.\n        In the year 1790, or about that time, Mr. Washington as President had sent Gouverneur Morris to London as his secret agent to have some communication with the British ministry. To cover the agency of Morris it was given out, I know not by whom, that he went as an agent from Robert Morris to borrow money in Europe, and the report was permitted to pass uncontradicted. The event of Morris\u2019s negociation was, that Mr. Hammond was sent minister from England to America, and Pinckney from America to England, and himself minister to France. If while Morris was minister in France he was not an emissary of the British ministry and the coalesced powers, he gave strong reasons to suspect him of it. No one who saw his conduct, and heard his conversation, could doubt his being in their interest; and had he not got off at the time he did, after his recall, he would have been in arrestation. Some letters of his had fallen into the hands of the Committee of Public Safety, and enquiry was making after him.\n        A great bustle has been made by Mr. Washington about the conduct of Genet in America; while that of his own minister, Morris, in France was infinitely more reproachable. If Genet was imprudent or rash, he was not treacherous; but Morris was all three. He was the enemy of the French revolution in every stage of it. But, notwithstanding this conduct on the part of Morris, and the known profligacy of his character, Mr. Washington, in a letter he wrote to him at the time of recalling him on the complaint and request of the Committee of Public Safety, assures him, that though he had complied with that request, he still retained the same esteem and friendship for him as before. This letter Morris was foolish enough to tell of; and, as his own character and conduct were notorious, the telling of it could have but one effect, which was that of implicating the character of the writer. Morris still loiters in Europe, chiefly in England; and Mr. Washington is still in correspondence with him; Mr. Washington ought therefore to expect, especially since his\nconduct in the affair of Jay\u2019s treaty, that France must consider Morris and Washington as men of the same description. The chief difference, however, between the two is (for in politics there is none) that the one is profligate enough to profess an indifference about moral principles, and the other is prudent enough to conceal the want of them.\n        About three months after I was at liberty, the official note of Jay to Grenville on the subject of the capture of American vessels by British cruisers appeared in the American papers that arrived at Paris. Every thing was of a-piece. Every thing was mean. The same kind of character went to all circumstances public or private. Disgusted at this national degradation, as well as at the particular conduct of Mr. Washington to me, I wrote to him (Mr. Washington) on the 22d of February (1795) under cover to the then Secretary of State (Mr. Randolph) and entrusted the letter to Mr. Letombe, who was appointed French consul to Philadelphia, and was on the point of taking his departure. When I supposed Mr. Letombe had sailed, I mentioned the letter to Mr. Monroe, and as I was then in his house, I shewed it to him. He expressed a wish that I would recall it, which he supposed might be done, as he had learned that Mr. Letombe had not then sailed. I agreed to do so, and it was returned by Mr. Letombe under cover to Mr. Monroe.\n        The letter, however, will now reach Mr. Washington publicly, in the course of this work.\n        About the month of September following, I had a severe relapse, which gave occasion to the report of my death. I had felt it coming on a considerable time before, which occasioned me to hasten the work I had then in hand, the Second part of the Age of Reason. When I had finished that work, I bestowed another letter on Mr. Washington, which I sent under cover to Mr. Benj. Franklin Bache of Philadelphia. The letter is as follows.\n        Here follows the letter above alluded to, which I had stopped in complaisance to Mr. Monroe.\n        That this letter was not written in very good temper is very evident; but it was just such a letter as his conduct appeared to me to merit, and every thing on his part since has served to confirm that opinion. Had I wanted a commentary on his silence with respect to my imprisonment in France, some of his faction has furnished me with it. What I here allude to is a publication in\na Philadelphia paper, copied afterwards into a New York paper, both under the patronage of the Washington faction, in which the writer, still supposing me in prison in France, wonders at my lengthy respite from the scaffold; and he marks his politics still further by saying:\n        I am not refuting or contradicting the fals[e]hood of this publication, for it is sufficiently notorious; neither am I censuring the writer; on the contrary I thank him for the explanation he has incautiously given of the principles of the Washington faction. Insignificant, however, as the piece is, it was capable of having had some ill effect, had it arrived in France during my imprisonment and in the time of Robespierre; and I am not uncharitable in supposing that this was the intention of the writer.\n        I have now done with Mr. Washington on the score of private affairs. It would have been far more agreeable to me, had his conduct been such as not to have merited these reproaches. Errors or caprices of the temper can be pardoned and forgotten; but a cold deliberate crime of the heart, such as Mr. Washington is capable of acting, is not to be washed away. I now proceed to other matter.\n        After Jay\u2019s note to Grenville arrived in Paris from America, the character of every thing that was to follow might be easily foreseen; and it was upon this anticipation that my letter of February 22d was founded. The event has proved, that I was not mistaken, except that it has been much worse than I expected.\n        It would naturally occur to Mr. Washington, that the secrecy of Jay\u2019s mission to England, where there was already an American minister, could not but create some suspicion in the French government; especially as the conduct of Morris had been notorious, and the intimacy of Mr. Washington with Morris was known.\n        The character, which Mr. Washington has attempted to act in the world, is a sort of non-describable, cameleon-coloured thing, called prudence. It is, in many cases, a substitute for principle, and is so nearly allied to hypocrisy, that it easily slides into it. His genius for prudence furnished him in this instance with an expedient, that served, as is the natural and general character of all expedients, to diminish the embarrassments of the moment and multiply them afterwards; for he authorised it to be made known to the French government, as a confidential matter\n(Mr. Washington should recollect that I was a member of the Convention, & had the means of knowing what I here state) he authorized it, I say, to be made known, and that for the purpose of preventing any uneasiness to France on the score of Mr. Jay\u2019s mission to England, that the object of that mission, and of Mr. Jay\u2019s authority, was restricted to that of demanding the surrender of the western posts and indemnification for the cargoes captured in American vessels. Mr. Washington knows that this was untrue; and knowing this, he had good reason to himself for refusing to furnish the House of Representatives with copies of the instructions given to Jay; as he might suspect, among other things, that he should also be called upon for copies of instructions given to other ministers, and that in the contradiction of instructions his want of integrity would be detected. Mr. Washington may now, perhaps, learn, when it is too late, to be of any use to him, that a man will pass better through the world with a thousand open errors upon his back, than in being detected in ONE sly fals[e]hood. When one is detected, a thousand are suspected.\n        The first account that arrived in Paris of a treaty being negotiated by Mr. Jay (for nobody suspected any) came in an English newspaper, which announced that a treaty offensive and defensive had been concluded between the United States of America and England. This was immediately denied by every American in Paris, as an impossible thing; and though it was disbelieved by the French, it imprinted a suspicion that some underhand business was going forward. At length the treaty itself arrived, and every well-affected American blushed with shame.\n        It is curious to observe how the appearances of character will change, whilst the root that produces them remains the same. The Washington administration having waded through the slough of negociation, and whilst it amused France with professions of friendship contrived to injure her, immediately throws off the hypocrite, and assumes the swaggering air of a bravado. The party papers of that imbecile administration were on this occasion filled with paragraphs about Sovereignty. A paltroon may boast of his sovereign right to let another kick him, and this is the only kind of sovereignty shewn in the treaty with England. But these dashing paragraphs, as Timothy Pickering well knows, were intended for France; without whose assistance in men,\nmoney and ships, Mr. Washington would have cut but a poor figure in the American war. But of his military talents I shall speak hereafter.\n        I mean not to enter into any discussion of any article of Jay\u2019s treaty: I shall speak only upon the whole of it. It is attempted to be justified on the ground of its not being a violation of any article or articles of the treaty pre-existing with France. But the sovereign right of explanation does not lie with George Washington and his man Timothy; France, on her part, has, at least, an equal right; and when nations dispute, it is not so much about words as about things.\n        A man, such as the world calls, a sharper, and versed, as Jay must be supposed to be, in the quibbles of the law, may find a way to enter into engagements, and make bargains in such a manner as to cheat some other party, without that party being able, as the phrase is, to take the law of him. This often happens in the cabalistical circle of what is called law. But when this is attempted to be acted on the national scale of treaties, it is too despicable to be defended, or to be permitted to exist. Yet this is the trick upon which Jay\u2019s treaty is founded, so far as it has relation to the treaty pre-existing with France. It is a counter-treaty to that treaty, and perverts all the great articles of that treaty to the injury of France, and makes them operate as a bounty to England with whom France is at war.\n        The Washington administration shews great desire, that the treaty between France and the United States be preserved. Nobody can doubt their sincerity upon this matter. There is not a British minister, a British merchant, or a British agent or sailor in America, that does not anxiously wish the same thing. The treaty with France serves now as a passport to supply England with naval stores and other articles of American produce, whilst the same articles, when coming to France, are made contraband or seizable by Jay\u2019s treaty with England. The treaty with France says, that neutral ships make neutral property, and thereby gives protection to English property on board American ships; and Jay\u2019s treaty delivers up French property on board American ships to be seized by the English. It is too paltry to talk of faith, of national honour, and of the preservation of treaties, whilst such a bare-faced treachery as this stares the world in the face.\n        The Washington administration may save itself the trouble of\nproving to the French government its most faithful intentions of preserving the treaty with France; for France has now no desire that it should be preserved. She had nominated an Envoy extraordinary to America, to make Mr. Washington and his government a present of the treaty, and to have no more to do with that or with him. It was, at the same time, officially declared to the American minister at Paris, that the French Republic had rather have the American government for an open enemy than a treacherous friend. This, sir, together with the internal distractions caused in America, and the loss of character in the world, is the eventful crisis, alluded to in the beginning of this letter, to which your double politics have brought the affairs of your country. It is time that the eyes of America be opened upon you.\n        How France would have conducted herself towards America and American commerce after all treaty stipulations had ceased, and under the sense of services rendered and injuries received, I know not. It is, however, an unpleasant reflection, that in all national quarrels, the innocent, and even the friendly, part of the community, become involved with the culpable and the unfriendly; and as the accounts that arrived from America continued to manifest an invariable attachment in the general mass of the people to their original ally, in opposition to the new-fangled Washington faction,\u2014the resolutions that had been taken were suspended. It happened also fortunately enough, that Gouverneur Morris was not minister at this time.\n        There is, however, one point that yet remains in embryo, and which, among other things, serves to shew the ignorance of the Washington treaty-makers, and their inattention to pre-existing treaties when they were employing themselves in framing or ratifying the new treaty with England.\n        The second article of the treaty of commerce between the United States and France says:\n        All the concessions therefore made to England by Jay\u2019s treaty are, through the medium of this second article in the preexisting treaty, made to France, and become engrafted into the treaty with France, and can be exercised by her as a matter of right, the same as by England.\n        In what a fraudulent light must Mr. Washington\u2019s character appear in the world, when his declarations and his conduct are compared together! Here follows the letter he wrote to the\nCommittee of Public Safety whilst Jay was negociating in profound secrecy this treacherous treaty.\n        Was it by entering into a treaty with England, to surrender French property on board American ships to be seized by the English, whilst English property on board American ships was declared by the French treaty not to be seizable, that the bonds of friendship between America and France were to be drawn the closer? Was it by declaring naval stores contraband when coming to France, when by the French treaty they were not contraband when going to England, that the connection between France and America was to be advanced? Was it by opening the American ports to the British navy in the present war, from which ports that same navy had been expelled by the aid solicited from France in the American war (and that aid gratuitously given) that the gratitude of America was to be shewn, and the solicitude spoken of in the letter demonstrated?\n        As the letter was addressed to the Committee of Public Safety, Mr Washington did not expect it would get abroad in the world, or be seen by any other eye than that of Robespierre, or be heard by any other ear than that of the Committee; that it would pass as a whisper across the Atlantic, from one dark chamber to the other, and there terminate. It was calculated to remove from the mind of the Committee all suspicion upon Jay\u2019s mission to England, and, in this point of view, it was suited to the circumstances of the moment then passing; but as the event of that mission has proved the letter to be hypocritical, it serves no other purpose of the present moment than to shew that the writer is not to be credited. Two circumstances served to make the reading of the letter necessary in the Convention. The one was, that those who succeeded on the fall of Robespierre, found it most proper to act with publicity; the other, to extinguish the suspicions which the strange conduct of Morris had occasioned in France.\n        When the British treaty, and the ratification of it by Mr. Washington, was known in France, all furthur declarations from him of his good disposition, as an ally and a friend, passed for so many cyphers; but still it appeared necessary to him to keep up the farce of declarations. It is stipulated in the British treaty, that commissioners are to report at the end of two years on the case of neutral ships making neutral property. In the mean time neutral ships do not make neutral property, according to the British\ntreaty, and they do, according to the French treaty. The preservation, therefore, of the French treaty became of great importance to England, as by that means she can employ American ships as carriers, whilst the same advantage is denied to France. Whether the French treaty could exist as a matter of right after this clandestine perversion of it, could not but give some apprehensions to the partizans of the British treaty, and it became necessary to them to make up, by fine words, what was wanting in good actions.\n        An opportunity offered to that purpose. The Convention, on the public reception of Mr. Monroe, ordered the American flag and the French flag to be displayed unitedly in the hall of the Convention. Mr. Monroe made a present of an American flag for the purpose. The Convention returned this compliment by sending a French flag to America, to be presented by their minister, Mr. Adet, to the American government. This resolution passed long before Jay\u2019s treaty was known or suspected; it passed in the days of confidence; but the flag was not presented by Mr. Adet till several months after the treaty had been ratified. Mr. Washington made this the occasion of saying some fine things to the French Minister, and the better to get himself into tune to do this, he began by saying the finest things of himself.\n        Mr. Washington having expended so many fine phrases upon himself, was obliged to invent a new one for the French, and he calls them \u201cwonderful people!\u201d The coalesced powers acknowledge as much.\n        It is laughable to hear Mr. Washington talk of his sympathetic feelings, who has always been remarked, even among his friends, for not having any. He has, however, given no proof of any to me. As to the pompous encomiums he so liberally pays to himself, on the score of the American revolution, the reality of them may be questioned; and since he has forced them so much into notice, it is fair to examine his pretentions.\n        A stranger might be led to suppose from the egotism with which Mr. Washington speaks, that himself, and himself only, had generated, conducted, compleated, and established the revolution: In fine, that it was all his own doing.\n        In the first place, as to the political part, he had no share in it; and therefore the whole of that is out of the question with respect to him. There remains then only the military part, and it would\nhave been prudent in Mr. Washington not to have awakened enquiry upon that subject. Fame then was cheap; he enjoyed it cheaply; and nobody was disposed to take away the laurels, that, whether they were acquired or not, had been given.\n        Mr. Washington\u2019s merit consisted in constancy. But constancy was the common virtue of the revolution. Who was there that was inconstant? I know of but one military defection, that of Arnold; and I know of no political defection, among those who made themselves eminent, when the revolution was formed by the declaration of independence. Even Silas Deane, though he attempted to defraud, did not betray.\n        But when we speak of military character, something more is to be understood than constancy; and something more ought to be understood than the Fabian system of doing nothing. The nothing part can be done by any body. Old Mrs. Thompson, the housekeeper of head-quarters (who threatened to make the sun and the wind shine through Rivington of New-York) could have done it as well as Mr. Washington. Deborah would have been as good as Barak.\n        Mr. Washington had the nominal rank of Commander in Chief; but he was not so in fact. He had in reality only a separate command. He had no controul over, or direction of, the army to the northward, under Gates, that captured Burgoyne; nor of that to the south, under Green, that recovered the southern States. The nominal rank, however, of Commander in chief, served to throw upon him the lustre of those actions, and to make him appear as the soul and centre of all the military operations in America.\n        Nothing was done in the campaigns of 1778, 1779, 1780, in the part where Gen. Washington commanded, except the taking Stony Point by Gen. Wayne. The Southern States in the mean time were over-run by the enemy. They were afterwards recovered by Gen. Greene, who had in a very great measure created the army that accomplished that recovery. In all this Gen. Washington had no share. The Fabian system of war, followed by him, began now to unfold itself with all its evils, for what is Fabian war without Fabian means to support it.\n        The finances of Congress, depending wholly on emissions of paper money, were exhausted. Its credit was gone. The continental treasury was not able to pay the expence of a brigade of\nwaggons to transport the necessary stores to the army, and yet the sole object, the establishment of the revolution, was a thing of remote distance. The time I am now speaking of is the latter end of the year 1780.\n        In this situation of things it was found not only expedient but absolutely necessary for Congress to state the whole case to its ally. I knew more of this matter (before it came into Congress or was known to General Washington) of its progress, and its issue, than I chuse to state in this letter. Col. John Laurens was sent to France as Envoy Extraordinary on this occasion, and by a private agreement between him and me I accompanied him. We sailed from Boston in the Alliance frigate, Feb. 11th, 1781. France had already done much in accepting and paying bills drawn by Congress. She was now called upon to do more. The event of Col. Lauren\u2019s mission, with the aid of the venerable minister, Franklin, was, that France gave in money, as a present, six millions of livres, and ten millions more as a loan, and agreed to send a fleet of not less than thirty sail of the line, at her own expence, as an aid to America. Col. Laurens and myself returned from Brest the 1st of June following, taking with us two millions and an half of livres (upwards of one hundred thousand pounds sterling) of the money given, and convoying two ships with stores.\n        We arrived at Boston the 25th August following. De Grasse arrived with the French fleet in the Chesapeak at the same time, and was afterwards joined by that of Barras, making 31 sail of the line. The money was transported in waggons from Boston to the Bank at Philadelphia, of which Mr. Thomas Willing, who has since put himself at the head of the list of petitioners in favour of the British treaty, was then President, and it was by the aid of this money, and of this fleet, and of Rochambeau\u2019s army, that Cornwallis was taken; the lawrels of which have been unjustly given to Mr. Washington. His merit in that affair was no more than that of any other American officer.\n        I have had, and still have, as much pride in the American revolution as any man, or as Mr. Washington has a right to have; but that pride has never made me forgetful from whence the great aid came that compleated the business. Foreign aid (that of France) was calculated upon at the commencement of the revolution. It is one of the subjects treated of in the pamphlet Common Sense, but as a matter that could not be hoped for, unless Independence was declared.\n        It is as well the ingratitude as the pusillanimity of Mr. Washington and the Washington faction, that has brought upon America the loss of character she now suffers in the world, and the numerous evils her commerce has undergone, and to which it is yet exposed. The British ministry soon found out what sort of men they had to deal with, and they dealt with them accordingly; and if further explanation was wanting, it has been fully given since in the snivelling address of the New-York Chamber of Commerce to the President, and in that of sundry merchants of Philadelphia, which was not much better.\n        When the revolution of America was finally established by the termination of the war, the world gave her credit for great character; and she had nothing to do but to stand firm upon that ground. The British ministry had their hands too full of trouble to have provoked unnecessarily a rupture with her, had she shewn a proper resolution to defend her rights. But encouraged as they were by the submissive character of her executive administration, they proceeded from insult to insult till none more were left to be offered. The proposals made by Sweden and Denmark to the American administration were disregarded. I know not if so much as an answer has been returned to them. The minister penitentiary (as some of the British prints called him) Mr. Jay, was sent on a pilgrimage to London, to make all up by penance and petition. In the mean time the lengthy and drowsy writer of the pieces signed Camillus held himself in reserve to vindicate every thing; and to sound, in America, the tocsin of terror upon the inexhaustible resources of England. Her resources, says he, are greater than those of all the other powers. This man is so intoxicated with fear and finance that he knows not the difference between plus and minus\u2014between an hundred pounds in hand, and an hundred pounds worse than nothing.\n        The commerce of America, so far as it had been established by all the treaties that had been formed prior to that by Jay, was free, and the principles upon which it was established were good. That ground ought never to have been departed from. It was the justifiable ground of right, and no temporary difficulties ought to have induced an abandonment of it. The case now is otherwise. The ground, the scene, the pretensions, the every thing, are changed. The commerce of America is, by Jay\u2019s treaty, put under foreign dominion. The sea is not free for her. Her right to navigate it is reduced to the right of escaping; that is, until some\nship of England or France, stops her vessels and carries them into port. Every article of American produce, whether from the sea or the land, fish, flesh, vegetable, or manufacture, is, by Jay\u2019s treaty, made either contraband or seizable. Nothing is exempt. In all other treaties of commerce the article which enumerates the contraband articles, such as fire arms, gun powder, &c. is followed by another article which enumerates the articles not contraband: but it is not so in Jay\u2019s treaty. There is no exempting article. Its place is supplied by the article for seizing and carrying into port; and the sweeping phrase of \u201cprovisions and other articles,\u201d includes every thing. There never was such a base and servile treaty of surrender since treaties began to exist.\n        This is the ground upon which America now stands. All her rights of commerce and navigation have to commence anew, and that with loss of character to begin with. If there is sense enough left in the heart to call a blush into the cheek, the Washington administration must be ashamed to appear.\u2014\u2014\u2014And as to you, sir, treacherous in private friendship (for so you have been to me, and that in the day of danger) and a hypocrite in public life, the world will be puzzled to decide, whether you are an apostate or an impostor; whether you have abandoned good principles, or whether you ever had any?\n          THOMAS PAINE.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0330", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Nathaniel Pendleton, 30 July 1796\nFrom: Pendleton, Nathaniel\nTo: Washington, George\n          Savannah. July 30th 1796.\n        It is with reluctance I find myself Obliged to resign the appointment I hold in the judicial department as judge of the district of Georgia\u2014The duty I owe to my children compels me to quit an office, the compensation for which will not afford me the means of giving them an education suitable to their condition.\n        I have therefore determined to resign on the first day of\nSeptember next, which compleats the seventh year since I had the honor to be appointed to this office.\n        I have thought it most proper thus early to inform you of this determination, from an idea that it would be agreeable to you to have some time to think of the most proper person to fill the vacancy. I have the honor to be with sentiments of the most respectful Attachment, Sir, Your most obedient Humble Servant\n          Nathl Pendleton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0331", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 30 July 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State July 30. 1796.\n        With very sincere pleasure I announce to you the ratification of the treaty with Spain. I received the ratified copy this day by the mail from New-York, with a certificate signed by the Prince of Peace and Mr Rutledge of the exchange of the ratifications, as on the 25th of April. I do not know why the certificate and the ratification on the part of Spain bear that date; for the treaty ratified by the Executive of the U. States did not get to Mr Rutledge\u2019s hands until the third of May; unless it was to bring the transaction within the six months allowed by the treaty for the exchange of the ratifications: the treaty having been signed on the 27th of October.\n        A letter, also recd to-day, from Mr Simpson, our Consul at Gibraltar, dated the 18th of June, mentions that he had been alongside a Swedish brig from Algiers, which she left on the 7th and tells the unwelcome news that the plague had broken out in that city; 15 to 20 dying in a day, agreeably to the bill of health from Consul Skjoldebrand: but the master of the brig assured Mr Simpson that no American or other captive had then fallen a victim to it. The Swedish Captain said also that Mr Donaldson had not returned from Leghorn when he left Algiers\u2014June 7th. I am most respectfully sir, yr obt servt\n          Timothy Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0332", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Pinckney, 31 July 1796\nFrom: Pinckney, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n        In my letter of the 7th of May I took the liberty of assigning my reasons for postponing for the present to make the overtures, authorized by your favor of the 5th of March, to the imperial Minister as I then entertained some hope that this Government might be induced to interfere in behalf of M. La Fayette. this hope was not quite extinguished till the begining of this month, and I was prepared to open the business to Count Stahremberg the Imperial Minister here, when I received your letter of the 22d May with its inclosures.\n        As I was apprised of no former attempts which I considered of equal weight to influence the Emperor to liberate our friend & as I conceived it to be possible that in the present uncertain & fluctuating state to which late events must have reduced the\npolitics of the Court of Vienna with respect to french Affairs, that the Emperor might not be displeased at having so fit an opportunity of freeing himself at the same time from the Odium of this imprisonment & of avoiding any embarrassment which might eventually arise on this account in negociating with the Government of France, I took an early opportunity of conferring with Count Stahremberg & of committing your letter to his charge, urging him at the same time to support the request therein contained with his interest: this he promised to do & if he acts in conformity to his declarations the influence of his friends at Vienna may be advantageous.\n        I was happy, Sir, to find you had an opportunity of making so unexceptionable an appointment to this Mission as occurred by Mr Kings resolution, to quit his Seat in the Senate: this Gentleman arrived just in time to be presented to their Majesties previous to their setting out for Weymouth & he accordingly had his introductory audiences on the 27th & 28th of this month: the necessary papers shall be immediately transferred, & every information in my power to impart shall be cheerfully communicated to him.\n        Lord Grenville shall be informed of the sense you entertain of his politeness in directing the permit to be sent to Liverpool for the embarkation of the seed peas & vetches which your agent there had purchased for your use.\n        As my departure has been unavoidably postponed to this period I do not now purpose to embark \u2019till after the Autumnal Equinox when it is my intention to sail direct for Charleston.\n        At this close of my diplomatic career permit me, Sir, to express my unfeigned thanks for the confidence with which you first appointed & have since continued to support me in the execution of the duties of my Mission, & to assure you of the continued attachment and affectionate respect of Dear Sir Your faithful & most obedt Servant\n          Thomas Pinckney", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0333", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Solomon Cotton, Jr., 1 August 1796\nFrom: Cotton, Solomon Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n        In confidence of your indulgence towards whatever is conducive to the public good, you are now addressed by a young man, with all that respect and veneration, due to your revered character; who intreats your acceptance of the Volume accompanying this letter.\n        That you may enjoy all the happiness this life will admit of, & be received hereafter into the immortal temple of the most High is the ardent wish of Sir Your Most Obedient & very Humble Servant\n          Solomon Cotton Junr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0334", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 1 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: McHenry, James\n          Mount Vernon 1st August 1796\n        The Post of Friday last brought me your dispatches of the 26th Ulto, with the Papers therein enclosed.\n        The draught of a letter to the Agent of the Department of War, and the Instructions for the person proposed as Deputy paymaster and Storekeeper in the State of Tennessee, are guarded, and proper. The only doubt remaining with me, is whether so many Officers, in that quarter, are realy necessary; and whether some of them may not, in the public estimation, be considered (after the Indian Agent for that Department is appointed) in the light of sinecures. If, however, upon a thorough investigation of the duties of their several Offices, it shall be found that the service would be too hard upon a less number, or that they are necessary as checks, I consent to the appointment of Mr Hillis as Deputy Paymaster and Store keeper\u2014provided his conduct in the Accomptants Office has afforded sufficient evidence of his fitness to discharge the duties required by your Instructions: to do which, properly, he ought to be a person of some experience in business; to be able to execute it with judgment; to possess firmness; and great integrity.\n        What will be the occupations of Mr Dinsmore? and what is become of a Mr Shaw (this was, if I recollect rightly the name of a person) who was sent some time ago by Genl Knox (while Secretary of War) into that quarter? There certainly can be no occasion for continuing the latter, if the former is retained.\n        A Troop of Horse, in my opinion, may, for the reasons you have assigned, be necessary on the frontiers of Georgia, and I desire they may join Conolel Gaither accordingly.\n        I have no objection to the releasement of Lieutt Geddis from his present arrest, at the request of those Officers who have asked it; But as the Attorney General will be at Philadelphia, I would have his opinion taken on the power of granting a pardon for the Offence of which he has been found guilty, and Cashiered; and the mode by which it may, with propriety, be accomplished: for it may be questioned, whether a remital of the Sentence of the Court, ought not to be preceeded by an act of approval, or rejection, as the foundation. At any rate some attention to the form (which I request may be given) will be necessary.\n        I am glad to find by Mr Byers letter to Colo. Henley, that Spiritous liquor is not necessary to carry on trade with the Indians. I have always been of opinion that it was productive of more discontent & mischief than good, and therefore hope it will cease to be an article of Traffic on public Account.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0335", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 1 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n          Mount Vernon August 1st 1796\n        Your letters of the 26th and 27th Ulto were received by the Post on friday last.\n        Forwarding without further direction, the Commission appointing Mr Davis Attorney for the District of Massachusetts in place of Mr Otis, after satisfactorily ascertaining those points which had occasioned the hesitation, was perfectly conformable to my intention.\n        I rejoice to find by the account you have given of the contents of the dispatches from Colo. Humphreys, that there is a probability of the speedy release of our captives in Algiers; that the Dey had recovered his temper; and that Mr Barlow had been received as our Consul at that place.\n        The suggestions of that Gentlem[an] relatively to the policy and utility of forming commercial, and friendly relations with the Italian States; with Austria; and with the Grand Seignior; deserves serious attention; & I not only request you to bestow it,\nbut to ascertain in the best manner you can against my arrival in Philadelphia, the principles on which such connexions could be advantageously formed. Good measures should always be executed as soon as they are conceived\u2014and circumstances will permit.\n        It has ever been my opinion from the little I have seen, and from what I have heard of Mr Barlow, that his abilities are adequate to any employment; & improved as they must have been by travel, & the political career he has run, there can be little doubt of his fitness, as a Negociator, for some of the countries abovementioned\u2014with proper Instructions.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0336", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 1 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\n        Private\n          Mount Vernon 1st Augt 1796\n        Mr Dandridge having rejoined my family again, preceeds me to Philadelphia, in order to bring up, & facilitate my Recording.\n        He will ease you of the trouble of supplying Mr Kitts weekly calls, by placing the money you have receivd on my private account, in his hands, & furnishing him with more, if necessary, on account of my compensation as formerly. With very great esteem & regard I am Dear Sir Your Affecte Servt\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0337", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, 2\u20135 August 1796\nFrom: Pinckney, Charles Cotesworth\nTo: Washington, George\n        (Duplicate)\n          Charleston [S.C.] August 2d[\u20135] 1796\n        You will find from my letter of the 27th ultimo that I have accepted the very important mission you have confided to me. I shall be prepared to sail for Philadelphia this day week if any Vessel is ready, but we have none of the usual Traders now in the Harbour, and whether any will arrive and be ready to sail by that time depends on the Wind which has for some time past been adverse. Should a good opportunity offer for New York & none for Philadelphia, I shall take my passage for the former port, & proceed from thence by Land to the latter. The intense heat of the weather, & the sickliness of our lower Country at this Season prevent my attempting the Journey from this City by Land. As I wish to be detained at Philadelphia as short a time as you may think consistent with the public service, I should be very glad if all the necessary papers & instructions were prepared before my arrival. If not improper I should request copies of all the letters & memorials that have passed both recently, & formerly from such a period as you may think necessary between the Gentlemen abroad & the Ministry there, and the Secretary of State at home, and also such as have passed between the Secretary of State & Minister at Philadelphia. As I do not know that I have any authority to entrust any person at Philadelphia with my appointment; I am obliged to request you to have the goodness to direct some proper person to engage a Passage in a good & safe Vessel for Mrs Pinckney, one of my Daughters & myself, in such time that we may arrive at the destined port if possible before the Equinox; & if that is improbable, that then the time of departure may be so contrived, that we may be on neither\nCoast but upon the open Sea at that season\u2014I have desired my friend Mr Burrows by this opportunity to take lodgings for us, as I intended to spend a short time at Philadelphia in my way to the Eastern States.\n        I received yesterday a Letter from my Brother dated London the 8th of June mentioning that the non arrival of his Letters of recall & the reasons urged by me against his arrival in this Climate in the Autumn, would probably induce him to remain there till after the Equinox. He says they were in an unpleasant state of suspence in that Country with regard to the passing of Laws in this to give effect to the provisions of the Treaty. He adds that if the Emperor should follow the King of Sardinia\u2019s example in making Peace, he does not see any probability that France and England will soon agree upon terms, as the French seem determined not to cede any of their own or the Dutch possessions conquered by the English, & none of the parties in England appear to be disposed to relinquish the whole of their conquests as the price of Peace. The original of your Letters have not yet arrived. With the sincerest veneration, esteem & attachment, I ever am your affectionate & obliged Sert\n          Charles Cotesworth Pinckney\n          P.S. The originals of your letters arrived to day the postmark is Richmd July 11. 1796\u2014I shall appropriate the Three hundred Dollars as you designed them\u2014There is no vessel in this Port bound for Philadelphia, but the Wind is Easterly & one is hourly expected, it is the Anne Capt: Switzer.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0338", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 3 August 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          War office 3 August 1796.\n        I have received your letter of the 29th ulto with the treaty and papers relative to the Creeks.\n        On looking over the treaty I find that it leaves to the President to mark the boundary line at such time and in such manner as he may direct. It is however mentioned by the commissioners, that since signing the treaty \u201cseveral of the chiefs have urged that the President should cause the line to be run as soon as possible and make choice of the places for the posts,\u201d to which they add \u201cwe have promised them they shall hear from the President in four months.\u201d\n        I shall consider the whole and report upon it as soon as possible.\n        Captn Bruff received possession of Oswego on the 14th ulto. I transmit his letters announcing the event which came to hand yesterday. That part of letter, July the 15, included in brackets, I have thought would be agreeable to you should be published. I shall therefore send it to one of the printers.\n        I presume it will be proper to provide for supplying the garrisons of Oswego and Niagara with wood in the manner suggested by Cap. Bruff and at the same time to allow each post a siene.\n        From the arrangements relative to provisions I expect that the troops will be well and regularly supplied. I have also been collecting to West point the recruits within a certain circle to form another small detachment for Niagara. I have the honour to be with the greatest respect Sir your most ob. st\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0339", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 3 August 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        Private.\n          War office 3 August 1796.\n        It strikes me, as among the first measures arising out of the proceedings of the Creek commissioners, that of a letter to the Governor of Georgia, somewhat in the stile of the inclosed. It would prove a considerable saving to the U.S. could the defence of the frontiers be carried on by regular troops without the aid of militia. It would give more consistency to military operations there, and more certainty to their effects. It would besides lessen that thirst for Indian land & plunder which is kept up by militia incursions into their country.\n        I have thought also, that it might be proper to take off the edge from Mr Jacksons representations, by a letter that would hold up the prospect of obtaining through the means which he censures, the object which his party has seemingly at heart: whilst, in another point of view, it is right, that militia which were expresly called into service on the ground that the frontiers were in danger should be dismissed when that danger is over.\n        If you should approve of the draught with such amendments as may occur, you will be pleased, as I have no copy of it, to return it by next mail. With the greatest and most sincere respect and attachment, I have the honour to be Sir your most ob. st\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0340", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 3 August 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State August 3. 1796\n        In my letter of the 30th ulto which was forwarded by post the first instant, I had the pleasure to mention the arrival of the Spanish treaty, ratified by His Catholic Majesty. I now do myself the honor to transmit the treaty itself (being a duplicate original) with a proclamation, for your signature, in order to promulgate the same to the citizens of the U. States. I also inclose for your information, a translation of the form in which the treaty was ratified by his Catholic Majesty; and am, with the highest respect, sir, your most obt servant\n          Timothy Pickering.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0341", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 3 August 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n          Philadelphia Augt 3. 1796\n        I have recd your favour of July 29th\u2014the one refered to in answer of mine dated the 11th never came to hand: to what cause the accident is to be attributed I cannot conjecture.\n        We have no news more than appears in the papers; our Country was never more tranquil than at present: so far as I know the public business is in a good train, except that the Treasury is in want of Loans. I shall be able to prevent injury to the public credit, but the building of Frigates, will proceed more slowly than I could wish, & some arrears in the War Department will accumulate.\n        There will be a meeting of the Commissioners of the Sinking Fund to consider whether circumstances do not require Sales of the Bank Stock held by the United States. nothing will be done without the most mature consideration, in which I shall be assisted by the advice & opinion of the Chief Justice & Attorney General.\n        I take the liberty to enclose a Copy of an Oration delivered by Mr Smith at Charleston which I understand was well received by a numerous audience of all descriptions of people. This I consider as a proof that the prejudices which lately existed in that City have greatly moderated. I have the honour to be with perfect respect Sir, your most obedt servt\n          Oliver Wolcott Jr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0342", "content": "Title: To George Washington from S\u00e9gur, 4 August 1796\nFrom: S\u00e9gur, Louis-Philippe, comte de\nTo: Washington, George\n          Paris August the 4th. Thermidor the 17ththe 4th year of the Republic [1796]\n        I hope that your excellency will permit me to remember myself to you. you have so much accustomed my relations and myself to your kindnesses that I don\u2019t fear to be troublesome in begging of you to be so kind as to forward the inclosed letter to Mr Lafayette my nephew. you are his second father, and I hope this motive will make you forgive the liberty which I take to put under your direction the letter which I write to him.\n        I have received by an undirect way some news of his\nunfortunate father, his health is better, but his captivity does not soften at all, and his wife cannot obtain any thing from the Emperor. the passions which weaken and wear themselves out here, begin to let more than one influential person feel that it should be shameful to make peace without obtaining from the court of Vienna the liberation of the french men arrested for the cause of Liberty but this happy disposition is not as yet sufficiently general or pronounced. all what I desire is that it would be the wisdom and interest of the American government which would determine the french government to that measure. I know that my friend would doubly enjoy his liberty if he owed it to you. and it appears to me that the moment is arrived when the advice that I speak of, could be given to the directory without compromising the minister who would be entrusted with the commission. I beg you would permit me with your usual Kindness to assure you of the tender attachement and of the profound respect with which I have the honour to be Sir of your excellency the most humble and most obedient Servant\n          signed L. P. segur", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0343", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 5 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n        Private\n          Mount Vernon 5th Augt 1796.\n        Your private letters of the 29th & 30th have been received.\n        If Mr Churchmans account respecting the broken seal of Mr Monroes letter, to the Department of State be true, it bespeaks the man of candour, and does him credit; but I do not see why, when called upon, he should require time to consider whether he should relate the truth\u2014or \u201cgive a certificate that might excite suspicions of innocent people\u201d the impropriety of the latter, would strike a man of honor the moment the thought arose.\n        He has written to me the enclosed letter (which may be returned); but I know too little of his real character; the respectability of his family & connexions; or his former pursuits; to form any opinion of his fitness to fill an Office of such importance & respectibility, to public acceptance. As a Mathematician I should suppose him competent; but there are other qualifications equally necessary in a Surveyor General. I wish you would make all the enquiries respecting these matters, your opportunities will permit.\n        And, if Mr Hawkins should be in Philadelphia, as he wrote the Secretary of War he should be, let me desire also, that you would indirectly, & without any commitment, ascertain 1st whether he possesses such Mathematical knowledge as would qualify him for the above Office; and in that case, 2dly find out whether he would accept it.\n        I have not yet, been able to hear of a character that combines the requisite qualifications for this trust, nor is it likely I shall do so before my return to Philadelphia. I am always & sincerely Your Affectionate\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0345", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Henry Glen, 8 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Glen, Henry\n          Mount Vernon 8th Augt 1796\n        As it appears by the Secretary of Wars letter to me, that you have lately been to the Forts of Oswego and Niagara and must have a competent knowledge of the time and manner of making a tour to the latter, I request the favor of you, as well for my own satisfaction, as to enable me to answer the enquiries of others, to solve the following question, in detail\u2014viz.\n        How long would it take a small party, unincumbered with heavy baggage\u2014who should not, on the journey, waste time unnecessarily\u2014nor proceed so as to fatiegue themselves\u2014to perform this Tour from the City of New York?\n        To explain what I mean, by desiring that the above question may be answered in detail permit me to propound the following queries.\n        1st What is the usual time in going from New York to Albany by Water conveyance? the same by land?\n        2d Is a passage in the Packets, or Stages, always to be had from N. York?\n        3d What time does it require to go from Albany to Fort Schuyler (or Stanwix) by Water? the same by land?\n        4th Could a light Boat, or two, according to circumstances, with Batteau Men always be had at Schenectady? On what terms?\n        5th If Boats are not to be had, could Horses be hired at Schenectady to go to Fort Schuyler?\n        6th How long in getting from Fort Schuyler to Fort Oswego? Would there be any certain dependence of procuring Craft at the former, to descend by the Wood Creek, &ca &ca to the latter? And whether with the assistance of a Cloak, & a little roughing, one could pass through that Country without carrying tents or bedding? and could moreover be supplied with Provisions, if not taken along?\n        7th What is the usual passage from Oswego to Niagara? Could there be any dependance on a vessel at the former (as we have none of our own) without risking an uncertain\u2014perhaps tedious delay? And is there any way, in case this should be likely to happen, of going by land? What is the distance, and are there any settlements, and a Road between those places?\n        Answers as full & precise, as the nature of the case, & your\nknowledge of circumstances will enable you to give, would go near to ascertain the time required to perform this rout in, and the provision, necessary to be made for it. After requesting these, as soon as you can conveniently give them, and apologizing for the trouble you will have in complying with this request, I have only to add that with very great esteem, I am\u2014Sir Your Obedt Hble Servt\n          Go: Washington\n          P.S. Would such Batteaux as could be obtained at Schenectady be fit to perform the whole voyage to Niagara? and in that case could they be engaged for it with proper hands?", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0347", "content": "Title: From George Washington to La Rochefoucauld-Liancourt, 8 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: La Rochefoucauld-Liancourt, Fran\u00e7ois-Alexandre-Fr\u00e9d\u00e9ric, duc de\n          Mount Vernon 8 Aug: 1796\n        The Letter which you did me the honor of writing to me the 25th of last month, came duly to hand; & the enclosure for Mr George Fayette was immediately presented to him.\n        The name & character of the duke de Liancourt were not unknown to me, before his arrival in this Country; and the respect which I entertained for the Latter (although political considerations have deprived me of the honor of a personal acquaintance with him) was, & is as great as he or his warmest friends could desire.\n        Mr de Liancourt must be too well acquainted with the history of governments; with the insidious ways of the world; & with the suspicions and jealousies of its rulers; not to acknowledge that men in responsible situations cannot, like those in private life, be governed solely by the dictates of their own inclinations, or by such motives as can only affect themselves.\n        To dilate upon this observation, or to attempt to point at the distinction between the conduct of a man in public office who is accountable for the consequences of his measures to others; and one in private life, who has no other check than the rectitude of his own actions, would be superfluous to a man of information: but if exemplification of these facts was necessary, it might be added with truth, that in spite of all the circumspection with which my conduct has been marked towards the gentlemen of your nation, who have left France under circumstances which have rendered them obnoxious to the governing power of it, the countenance said to be given to them, is alledged as a cause of discontent in the Directory of France against the government of the U. States. But it is not my intention to dwell on this subject: how far the charge is merited no one better than yourself can judge; & your candour & penetration will, I am persuaded, appreciate my motives for the reverse of the charge, however contrary the operation of them may have been to your expectation or to my wishes.\n        With respect to Mr La Fayette I may, without troubling you with the details, venture to affirm that whatever private friendship could require, or public duty would allow, has been, & will continue to be essayed by me to effect his liberation. the difficulty in accomplishing of which has, no doubt, proceeded in a great measure from the cause you have mentioned, & will probably exist while the war between the belligerent powers continues to rage.\n        No man regrets this, & the present unhappy situation of this amiable family more than I do; but it is an ascertained fact, that altho\u2019 Fayette is an adopted citizen of this Country, the Government of it, nor the people themselves, notwithstanding their attachment to his person & the recollection of his services, have any right to demand him as their citizen by the law of nations. consequently, an expression of their earnest wishes that liberty may be restored to him, is all they can do towards accomplishing it. to attempt more, would avail him nothing, & might involve the U. States in difficulties of great magnitude.\n        This letter, sir, you will consider as a private one; originating from yours to me, relatively to Mr La Fayette. In replying to the sentiments contained in it, I could not, from respect to your character, & the indulgence of my own feelings, miss the\noccasion of giving you this explanation of matters, which otherwise might have the appearance of mystery. It affords an occasion also of assuring you that with sentiments of the highest esteem & greatest respect I have the honor to be &c.\n          G: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0348", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 8 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: McHenry, James\n          Mount Vernon 8th Augt 1796\n        Your letter of the 3d instant, with the information of our possession of Fort Ontario (lately occupied by the Troops of Great Britain) and the correspondence between Captn Bruff of the United States Troops, and Captn Clarke of the British was brought to me by the last Post.\n        Several matters are submitted by the former for consideration; among them, the mode of supplying the Garrison with fire Wood, and furnishing it with a Sein. With respect to the first of these, providing it with a Horse, or pair of Horses, and a Batteau (as the fuel is to be transported so far) seems to be matters of necessity; but the practice of the American Army should be consulted for precedents, before the British allowance or indeed any allowance, is made to the Soldiers for cutting and transporting of it to the Fort, when the means by which it is done are furnished by the public. If no allowance of this sort has been made heretofore\u2014except in Towns where the Wood was to be bought\u2014which, if I remember rightly, was the case invariably while I commanded the Army; it would be a dangerous innovation to begin it now; for it would instantly pervade all the Garrisons and the whole Army; be their situation what it may. In time of peace, where no danger is to be apprehended, and where the duty is light, I see no hardship in the Soldiers providing fuel for their own use, and comfort. With regard to a Sein, as the expence will be small, (if it is taken care of) and the convenience great, I think the Garrision should be indulged with one.\n        There is another part of Captn Bruffs letter which I do not perfectly understand, where he says, \u201che is at a loss what orders to give Lieutt Rowen respecting the continuance of his command,\u201d &ca &ca \u201cor whether to join me, or stay, on the arrival of\na reinforcement, or detachment.\u201d Doubts of this sort should be removed as soon as possible.\n        There is a suggestion in Mr Glens letter of the 17th of July which merits consideration\u2014I mean the purchase of a Vessel (now in use) on Lake Ontario. The Utility of this measure depends very much, if not altogether, upon the cheapest & best channel through which to supply the Garrison at Niagara, with Provisions & Stores. If by the rout of the Mohawk & Oswego, a proper Vessel on Lake Ontario would certainly be useful; If by the way of Presque-Isle & Lake Erie, it would be unnecessary; and if by a middle communication suggested (I think by Mr Weston) to the Canal Company in the State of New York, in some report which has been published, it would depend much upon the place of its entrance into the above mentioned lake for its utility.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0349", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 8 August 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        I have received your letters of the 1st and 3d instant.\n        The inclosed packet No. 1. contains the opinion of the Attorney General on the power of the President to pardon military\noffences previous to the late act of Congress; and the form of a pardon for Lt Geddis for your signature.\n        No. 2. contains the last dispatches from General Wayne, and copy of a letter which I have sent to General Wilkinson relative to his correspondence with Col. England, which as appeared to me, I could not with propriety have omitted to write.\n        No. 3. Is the draught of a letter to Lt Col. Gaither, which if approved of you will be pleased to transmit as soon as convenient.\n        No. 4. Is a letter from Gen. Pickens respecting the agent of Indian affairs in Georgia. With the greatest respect, I have the honour to be Sir your most obt St\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0350", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Stephens, 8 August 1796\nFrom: Stephens, William\nTo: Washington, George\n          Savannah\u2014Georgia 8th Aug: 1796\n        Mr Pendleton, district Judge of this State, having removed with his Family, to reside in New York, of Consequence intends resigning his office.\n        Amongst the applications, that may be made for the appointment, It is with great deference; Sir, that I am enboldened to add to the number, that may Solicit you on this occasion. If my Situation and Character be such, as to warrant me in the application, I flatter myself, that although not having the Honour, probably of being much known to, or heard of, by you, Yet, the result of your enquiries, I trust, cannot but terminate in my Favor.\n        As a native of this State, whose Grand Father and Family, were amongst the first to Migrate and Settle in Georgia\u2014I cannot but feel, for its Welfare and Dignity.\n        Being early Brought up in the Study of the Law, in this Country, I had the good Fortune, previous to the Revolution, to profit myself, by obtaining a more General Knowledge of the profession, by Study in the Inns of Court, Attached to Westminster Hall, and returning, entered into a Liberal practice, Shared the Vicissitudes of Fortune, with my Country, during its Greatest Troubles, and have now the happiness to see it Flourish.\n        If the Enjoyment of Legislative, and other Appointments by the people, and that too, unsolicited, are marks of Confidence, it is with flattering truth, I can assert, I have a full share, as well of the public, as private Testimony of my Fellow citizens. Under the protection of Providence, my circumstances are tolerably easy, but feeling, a strong desire, to be of Service to my common\nCountry, I have not hesitated, to trespass on your time, by craving the Appointment now about to be vacant.\n        If then, Sir, in the exercise of your correct Judgment, in the appointment of a Judge of this District, it shall occur to you, that my Services may be adequate, it will not only be considered by me, amongst the first of Honors\u2014and that very much heigthened, by receiving it from your hands. with sentiments, of very high Respect, I am sir yr very obt sert\n          Wm Stephens", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0352", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Joseph Habersham, 10 August 1796\nFrom: Habersham, Joseph\nTo: Washington, George\n          Philadelphia 10th August 1796.\n        I take the Liberty to enclose you a Letter from Mr Clay, who is a Candidate for the appointment of District Judge of the State of Georgia, which he has been informed is vacant by the resignation of Judge Pendleton.\n        Mr Clay is a Man of Honour and Virtue, and I have reason to think that he is well qualified for the appointment for which he is a Candidate, but as he is a distant connection of mine it is probable that I may overrate his Merit on this occasion. I have the Honour to be, with great respect, Sir, Your most obedient humble servant\n          Jos. Habersham", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0354", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 10 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: McHenry, James\n        Private\n          Mount Vernon, 10th Augt\u201496\n        Colo. Hawkins is now here, on his way to Philadelphia, & proposes to proceed in the S\u27e8ta\u27e9ge of tomorrow.\n        He has related many matters, and read many papers relative to the Treaty with the Creek Indians; the conduct of the State Commissioners of \u27e8Georgia; &ca &ca.\u27e9 But as this is not the regular way of bringing business, of this sort, before me; I have requested that he and Mr Clymer (who he supposes will be in Philadelphia before him\u27e8)\u27e9 will report to \u27e8you,\u27e9 not only what appertains to \u27e8the\u27e9 Commission, but \u27e8their\u27e9 observations and remarks generally as may be interesting \u27e8for\u27e9 the government \u27e8to\u27e9 be in\u27e8formed of for\u27e9 the regulation of its con\u27e8duct in that quarter. I wis\u27e9h you, therefore to be minute in your enquiries \u27e8&\u27e9 entries.\n        My present intention is to leave this about the middle of next week for Philadelphia, but as I shall spend a day in the Federal City, and on account of the weather, propose to travel slow, it will, probably, be t\u27e8he\u27e9 middle of the week after, before I sh\u27e8all\u27e9 arrive there. With very great esteem & regard I am\u2014Dear Sir Your Affecte Servt\n          Go: Washing\u27e8ton\u27e9", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0356", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 10 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\n        Private\n          Mount Vernon 10th Augt 96\n        Your letter of the 3d Instant did not get to my hands until the 8th. I most assuredly wrote the letter mentioned in my last; but I find it is no uncommon thing for my letters to miscarry. The originals to Genl Pi[n]ckney, of the \u2014\u2014 Ulto (one of which containing 300 dollrs. in Bank notes for the Sufferers by fire in Charleston) had not been received by that Gentleman on the 26th of that Month, altho\u2019 duplicates dispatched eight days afterwards, had. I have heard of no miscarriage of a Mail, and I have evidence that the above letters (under one cover) proceeded safely, as far as Richmond.\n        General Pinckney accepts the appointment to France, and will, very shortly, with his lady, be in Philadelphia to embark. As this circumstance will furnish a new Subject for envenomed Pens, it merits consideration how far the causes which have occasioned it, should, unofficially, be spoken of by the Officers of Government.\n        Let me desire that you would begin to note such occurrences (not only those in your own Department, but all others which may occasionally present themselves) as may be fit and proper to communicate to Congress at their next Session. It is from these materials, and such Memorandums as I take myself, my speech is composed. It is better to note down every thing which may be requisite on this occasion, than to omit any thing; because it is easier to select, than to collect matter, at the moment I am going to compose it.\n        I am sorry the Treasury is unable to answer all the appropriated calls upon it. My present intention is to leave this for Philadelphia in the course of next Week, but as I shall travel slow, and have to halt a day or two on the Road, my arrival there is a little\nuncertain. With very great esteem & regard I am Dear Sir Your affectionate\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0357", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 11\u201312 August 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        I received the inclosed letter from Mr Hendricks on the 9th and that from Mr Clymer the 6th inst.\n        One of these gentlemen you will perceive thinks another negotiation indispensible to prevent war; the other, that an augmentation of the regular force is absolutely necessary to the preservation of peace. Both, of course, meet in the opinion, that there is serious ground to apprehend hostility on the frontiers of Georgia unless measures are adopted to prevent it.\n        Such being the aspect of things in that quarter, I would submit for consideration; whether it might not be expedient, in aid of the military dispositions contemplated, to incorporate in the letter proposed to be written to the governor of Georgia, sentiments to the following import.\n        \u201cThat the President has read the protest of the commissioners on the part of Georgia against the proceedings of the commissioners of the U.S.; that he laments, that regulations calculated to preserve confidence in the Indians, in the fairness of the intentions of government, should have worn a different aspect to these gentlemen; that from the sincerity which he used in communicating to the Indians the desire of the State of Georgia to make a purchase from them of certain described land, and the instructions which he gave to the commissioners of the U.S. to facilitate and obtain it, and from the view which he has taken of the transactions at the meeting, as connected with that object, he cannot ascribe the refusal of the Indians to sell to\nthose regulations or the conduct of the commissioners, but to a predetermination of the Creek nation not to dispose of their land: That as a further proof of the Presidents intentions, and in order to remove every doubt on this subject he will, as soon as possible, have ascertained in the most unequivocal manner, whether a change of mind has taken place in the nation respecting the land and the terms upon which they will sell; that should the inquiry turn out favourably he will cheerfully consent to the opening of another negotiation.\u201d\n        I would hope from such a communication 1st. That it would have a tendency to allay the agitation which the representations of the State commissioners may have excited and perhaps arrest violent proceedings. 2. That it would afford time to government (should it suspend dangerous projects only) to arrange the military force in such a manner as to render all attempts at settlement nugatory. & 3d. That it would shew, that the Executive is disposed to obtain the land in question for the State, and preserve peace to the frontiers. With the greatest respect I have the honour to be Sir your most obt & hble st\n          James McHenry\n          P.S. Since writing the foregoing I have received your two letters of the 8th inst. I shall pay particular attention to their contents.\n          I now inclose you the draught of the letter to the governor of Georgia modelled agreeably to the preceding suggestions. If it is approved of I should be glad to have it returned by the next post for immediate transmission. It is understood that the instructions to Lt Col. Gaither will accord with it.\n          With respect to the inquiry it proposes. That can be made by the person who shall be appointed to explain certain things to the Creeks in their nation, which they required and which the Commissioners have consented should be given.\n          I have this moment received the inclosed letters & from Gen. Wilkinson & Cap. De Butts, as also one from Governor Sevier. I shall as the post goes tomorrow acknowlege it, and express the satisfaction which I expect it will give to the President.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0358", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Richard Bowen to Bartholomew Dandridge, 12 August 1796\nFrom: Bowen, Richard\nTo: Dandridge, Bartholomew\n        As above is the acct for advertising the President\u2019s farms. your remitting the amount per post will much oblige. If you have\nopportunities to Alexandria, it may be lodged in the hands of Mr McRea, post master, who will send it on by the rider to this place (Anthony Moore) whose receipt in my behalf shall be sufficient. Am, Sir, your hble Sert\n          Richd Bowen", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0360", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., 12 August 1796\nFrom: Dandridge, Bartholomew Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n        I received your letter covering one for the Duke de Liancourt yesterday. I enquired agreeably to your direction, of Mr Lacolombe concerning the residence of the duke, & find he is either at New York or Boston\u2014most probably the latter. Mr Lacolombe advises me to put the letter for him under cover to Mr Casenove at Nw York, which I intend doing by this days post, with a request to Mr Casenove that if the duke is not in Nw York he will give it a safe conveyance.\n        The other directions contained in your letter shall receive due attention. I have conversed with Mr Sheaffe, who owns half the garden, about putting it in order; & he assures me it is not his wish that anything should be done to it, as he means to begin his preparations for building on it this fall. That part which joins Mr Kennedy\u2019s belongs to a brother of Dr Kuhn. he is not in town at present; but Mr Sheaffe tells me it is his intention to build on it the next spring, & does not believe that he wishes any expense to be incurred on account of it. I will see him about it, however, as soon as he returns to the City. At any rate it would not do to disturb the grape vines at this time: they are laden with fine fruit which I presume would be lost if the vines were disturbed at this stage of their growth.\n        Altho\u2019 Mr Kitt never mentioned to you that he had discharged Peter, yet he tells me it was done soon after you left the City. I have directed him to look out for a servant such as you describe; & shall myself make the same enquiry. I fear the getting a good one will be found difficult, as there appears to be a great demand for them. Several gentlemen have been here to know of Mr Kitt if he could recommend one to them. Major Jackson called on me the day before yesterday to get Peter\u2019s character, whom I believe he means to employ, tho\u2019 I could not say much to his advantage. The office and the two bed rooms adjoining were white washed before I arrived here. the white washing those below will be postponed \u2019till the fly-season is over. Be pleased to present my affection to my Aunt, and accept Dr Sir, the sincere esteem & attachmt of Yr obliged Servt\n          B. Dandridge", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0361", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 12 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: McHenry, James\n          Mount Vernon 12th Augt 1796\n        The originals and drafts of letters enclosed in yours of the 8th instt are herewith returned.\n        The publication of the letters to and from Lieutt Colo. England was certainly improper: and the reprehension of Genl Wilkinson for doing it, or suffering it to be done, is just; and the manner in which it has been conveyed to him is delicate.\n        The draught of the letter to Colo. Gaither, predicated on the information you had received, is very proper: But as Colo. Hawkins is on his way to Philadelphia, & Mr Clymer probably arrived there, I would not have it dispatched until you communicate fully & freely with them on all matters & things relative to that frontier; the establishment of Posts\u2014&ca &ca. Many things in oral conversations often cast up that never can be well explained, and understood by written transmissions from so distant a part of the Union. It is better to encounter a little delay in acquiring perfect information (as much so I mean, as the nature of the case will admit) than to have a second letter to write on the same subject: corrective perhaps, in some instances, of the first. This appears the more necessary in the present case, for as much as Colo. Hawkins is furnished with suggestions from the Indians themselves relative to proper sites for the establishment of Military & trading Posts.\n        General Pickens\u2019s sentimts respecting the conduct of the\nIndian Agent to the Southward, accords precisely with the ideas I have entertained of that person, sometime past. It is necessary therefore that every information, derivable from the Commissioners, and other sources should be obtained that the government may take its measures accordingly.\n        As I expect to be in Philadelphia about the 22d instant, I shall not enlarge on these, or touch any other subject, except informing you that the Pardon for Lieutt Geddis is returned with my signature.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0362", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 12 August 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State Augt 12. 1796.\n        This week I received letters from Colo. Humphreys dated the 4th and 8th of June. The latter covered an edict of the government of Portugal for opening a free port at Junguara, just at the Entrance of the harbour of Lisbon. Colo. Humphreys embraced this occasion to compliment the Minister on the liberal policy of the government, and to express his hopes that the subject of the free admission of flour from America, would not escape its attention. But it is so apparently for the interest of the Portuguese to refuse it, I entertain but the slightest expectation of the indulgence. From the information given me by the Chevalier Freire, there is a vast number of mills in the environs of Lisbon, abundantly sufficient to supply every part of the kingdom depending on that port with fresh flour, of which the proprietors would be injured in proportion to the quantity of American flour admitted. They receive great quantities of wheat from Morocco, and generally cheaper than from America. It is in this trade that some American Vessels have probably been taken by the Moors: for at the present time they have gone to the ports in possession of Muley Isham, the rival prince to the reigning emperor, who considering the former as a rebel, has doubtless ordered his cruisers to take any vessels trading to the rebel ports. Colo. Humphreys long ago warned the Americans of the danger: but tempted by the high freights they were willing to run the risque.\nAnd by the news paper accounts it seems that some have been captured.\n        Colo. Humphreys\u2019 letter of the 4th of June covered the copy of a letter from the Dey of Algiers to the President of the United States, of which I have now the honor to inclose a copy. By this it seems clear that the Dey has at length divested himself of his extreme impatience; and that we may entertain, on good grounds, hopes of a happy termination of the Algerine affairs. The letter was brought to Alicant by Mr Cathcart, who was there performing quarantine. Cathcart was one of the American Captives, and the Dey\u2019s head Christian Clerk. He had the Dey\u2019s orders to come to America in a vessel obtained at Algiers, & was furnished with a passport for one year, commencing the first of May, within which time, the Dey told him the terms of the treaty could certainly be fulfilled. The Dey expects the frigate destined for him should be coppered. This I had always contemplated. Indeed it has seemed to me that good policy required that she should be a very complete vessel, to ensure a permanent as well as present satisfaction: for if the one furnished should become shortly defective, we should undoubtedly be obliged to give him a second.\n        Yesterday I received some packets from Mr Monroe but they were only duplicates of those of the 25th of March and 2d of May. I have the honor to be with the highest respect, Sir, your most obt servt\n          Timothy Pickering.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0363", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, 12 August 1796\nFrom: Pinckney, Charles Cotesworth\nTo: Washington, George\n          Charleston [S.C.] August 12th 1796\n        I am prepared to sail for New York or Philadelphia as soon as a good opportunity offers. None of the Philadelphia pacquets are now in our harbour. There is one for New York called the\nJohn; and I went this morning to take my passage in her, when I was credibly informed that she was a very bad sailer, did not obey her helm, always made tedious voyages, & therefore her last Commander (a very good one) left her, & that she has now a new one. This account has deterred me from going in her. Capn Garman is hourly expected from Philadelphia, and I will sail with him on his return, should not a speedier opportunity offer. I am sorry for the delay, but your Letters by the post were very long in coming; and when we depend on ships & winds, a rigid punctuality is out of the question. This City is at present sickly, but no contagious or malignant disorder rages here; for your satisfaction I enclose you a certificate of the medical society to this purpose. With the highest veneration, esteem & attachment, and the sincerest wishes for your happiness, I always am your affectionate & obliged Sert\n          Charles Cotesworth Pinckney", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0364", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Lamelin, 13 August 1796\nFrom: Lamelin, _____\nTo: Washington, George\n          New York August 13th 179[6]\n        Common report has made me acquainted with the pleasure you take to oblige\u2014with whom better than a soul of sensibi[li]ty should I participate the sad situation of an ancient defender of the Continent, if it is not to the military Cheif who has made the happiness, & insured the tranquility of it.\n        unfortunate by the misfortunes which have overwhelmed us until this, & deprived of the means of existence, to support me & many honest persons, worthy of general commiseration.\n        I dare to intercede with your good Heart to send me some assistance under the title of a loan, to share with these unhappy victims, they have been already sustained by many compassionate souls who are in the Continent who moved by my solicitations, have softened the fate of those for whom I intercede.\n        I do not doubt of suceeding with you, be persuaded beforehand of our gratitude, & of the exactness with which we shall return that which we shall receive so Obligingly.\n        I do not name to you the persons for whom I intercede, I am tender of their delicacy, but I engage my word of honour for them for the quick restitution of the said loan.\n        they inhabit the City of New York, & have no one but me for a protector & for consolation.\n        The persuasion they have of your benevolence, has engaged them to charge me to assure you of their respects. I have the honour to be in the same sentiments, General Your very humble & obedient servant\n          Lamelin", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0365", "content": "Title: Deed to Robert Lewis, 13 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lewis, Robert\n        I do by these presents give, and (if Deeds of Conveyance should not have been made before) hereby oblige my heirs, Executors and Administrators to fulfil, all the Lands which I hold on Deep run, or its branches in the County of Fauquier unto my Nephew Robert Lewis and to his heirs or Assigns forever. Given under my hand and Seal this 13th day of August 1796\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0366", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 16 August 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State Augt 16. 1796.\n        Expecting from Mr Blodget an improved design for a mediterranean passport, I delayed putting the one he sent me, & which I had the honor to lay before you, into the hands of the engraver. But receiving nothing more from him, I shewed his original design to Mr Wolcott & Mr McHenry who both approved of it, with some little alterations. The engraving has proved a more tedious work than I had imagined, so that I have obtained the first impressions not till to-day. There will be no difficulty in transmitting the passports to reach the remotest ports by the first of September (from which day the law requires their being issued) except those of Charleston and Savannah. And to gain time with respect to these, I shall dispatch a person in the stage to-morrow, to meet you with a few passports, to be completed by your signature; after which the Bearer will forward them in the mail for Charleston and Savannah\u2014that mail which is but the continuation of the one which will leave Philadelphia to-morrow-morning. I shall prepare others to be sent by water to those ports. The whole number of passports committed to the Bearer is twenty four. They are necessary only for those vessels which go to Europe or elsewhere in the other hemisphere. I am most respectfully, sir, your obt servt\n          Timothy Pickering.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0367", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James Anderson, 18 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Anderson, James\n          Mr Anderson\n          City of Washington\n        In Passing through Alexandria yesterday, on my way to Philadelphia, I saw Colo. Fitzgerald, who informed me of a letter he had received from you in consequence of one which Doctr Stuart had written to his relation, Mr Fitzhugh of Stafford. It might have promoted both our views, if you had come immediately to my house upon the receipt of that letter, as more satisfaction would have resulted from the conversation of an hour or two, than from all the letters that can be written on the subject.\n        As this however was not the case, and as I shall not be at Mount Vernon again until the latter end of next month, and consequently cannot see you sooner; I will be candid, & explicit in what I am going to say to you; from whence, and your answer, some opinion may be formed of the probability of our mutual expectations being answered.\n        Mr Pearce who at present looks after my business is a person with whose management I am very well pleased. He is a man of property; of great integrity; very great industry; and much experience in the superintendence of a large concern; having been the manager of one for a Gentn on the E.\u27e8S.\u27e9 fifteen or 18 years, before he came to me. In consideration of these qualifications, & on acct of my being absent from home, when a confidential character was peculiarly necessary for my concerns I agreed to give him as an inducement to remove from the Eastern Shore & on acct of his established character as an expd Manag\u27e8er\u27e9 One hundred Guineas a year\u2014although a hundred pounds (Virga money curr[enc]y) was the most I had ever given before. He superintends all my concerns, which appertain to the Estate of Mount Vernon; consisting besides Tradesmen of four large Farms, and the Mansion house farm, the last of which (though not much is raised at it) is not the least troublesome part of his\nduty in \u27e8illegible\u27e9\u2014At and over each of these seperate farms & workmen there is as good an Overseer as has been in the power of the superintended to procure, to reside constantly on their respective farms &ca & to obey his orders.\n        This, in general, is the outline of the business\u2014to detail the particular parts, would be tedious, & to a man of experience would be unnecessary. I am altogether in the farming & mead-owing line; the last of which I have much grds propr for & want to encreas them considerably.\n        I will now tell you frankly what kind of a person I must engage to conduct my business well. Besides being sober, & a man of integrity, he must possess a great deal of activity and firmness, to make the under Overseers do their duty strictly. He must be a man of foresight & arrangement; to combine & carry matters on to advantage; & he must not have these things to learn after he comes to me. He must be a farmer bred\u2014and understand it in all its parts. I would wish him too to understand grazing\u2014& particularly the care & management of Stock. How to Ditch\u2014Hedge &ca\u2014and how to conduct a Dairy.\n        Now let me request you to declare truly, whether from practice the matters here detailed are, or could soon be made familiar to you\u2014designating those which you have a competent practical knowledge of, from those which you may be less perfect in. A letter put into the Post office at Fredericksburgh\u2014directed to me in Philadelphia, will be certain of arriving safe, and may enable me to say something more decisive to you in my next, by way of reply to your answer to this letter.\n        I ought to have added, that the only cause of Mr Pearce\u2019s leaving my business is, an increasing Rheumatic affection which he says will not allow him to discharge his duty as he conceives he ought; for which reason, and thinking it the part of an honest man to retire. He has, at one of my farms a good dwelling house pleasantly situated; & every thing comfortably about him. I am\u2014Your Hble Servt\n          G. Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0368", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Joseph Buell, 18 August 1796\nFrom: Buell, Joseph\nTo: Washington, George\n          Marietta [Northwest Territory] 18th Augt 1796\n        Agreable to your Advertisement I have Explored your tract of land lying on the bank of the Ohio five or six Miles below the little Kenhaway the situation of which pleases me. I will Give you five dollars pr Acre for the tract and make the payment agreable to the mode prescribed in your advertisemt. I am Sir your Excelences Most Obedient humble Servt\n          Joseph Buell", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0369", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James Ross, 18 August 1796\nFrom: Ross, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          Pittsburgh 18. august 1796.\n        Since my return home I have delivered your conveyance to Colo. Ritchie & received the enclosed bond together with a Mortgage upon the land sold which I have lodged with the recorder of washington County, in whose hands it will remain to be proceeded upon if necessary. The quantity fell short of what we expected as you will see by the enclosed draft of a survey made by Charles Morgan. All expences of Surveying this land will be charged to you, the deeds & different writings are paid by the purchasors. Colo. Ritchie sent forward the interest due upon the whole purchase money up to the first of June last which upon your order has been paid to Mr Wolcott. The Bond & Mortgage are dated on the first of June that being the date of your deed.\n        I have not seen Colo. Shreve since my return, but I well recollect that when his brother paid me the 1160 Dollars last winter I gave a receipt on account of the second installment Not to be credited untill the ballance and all the interest was produced to you, so that Colo. Shreve is altogether without excuse for his delinquency. at all events he should have sent forward my receipt which would have constituted with you a part of the payment.\n        I wrote to Charles Morgan as you requested respecting the rents due from Shreve & the accounts of Colo. Canon together\nwith Some business of my own, you will learn his answer from his letter of the 26th July which I enclose. Since that time I have not heard from him, nor has he sent me the bonds upon Colo. Shreve as he propos\u27e8ed\u27e9.\n        In my mind Colo. Shreve has acted very improperly he has made a good bargain & has it in his power to fulfill it without difficulty the rents ought long since to have been paid, And he can at any time procure bills of ex[c]hange in this town upon Philadelphia for cash, so that the remittance would occasion no expence to him.\n        The ratification of the Spanish treaty, & the possession of the Western Posts have completed the measure of our political happiness, The angry discontented politicians of this country are Silenced, Honest men who doubted are satisfied, & all good men feel the liveliest emotions of Joy in contemplating our situation. With most sincere respect I have the Honour to be Sir your most Obedient Humble Servant\n          James Ross", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0370", "content": "Title: From George Washington to John Fitzgerald, 19 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Fitzgerald, John\n          Baltimore 19th Augt 1796.\n        I intended to have written to you on the subject of the enclosed letter, from the Federal City, but by dining in a large company at Mr Laws (the day I parted with you) and examining the public buildings afterwards, I was prevented: and letters from the Secretary of State which I met on the Road, and which required my attention yesterday afternoon I was again prevented from doing it in time for the Mail of this morning.\n        After giving this information (wch is designed principally for Mr Gill) let me request the favor of you to inform, that I am willing to accomodate his wishes for a Deed in Fee, for the land he leased of me, upon the Security of Bank-stock (agreeably to the proposal in his letter) Provided the said Stock is transferred, or so secured to me at his expence, in such a manner as the Attorney-General shall deem proper and adequate; and provided also, I receive my proportion of the Dividends when paid, or they become due, in proportion to the quantum of Rent which may be due at the time\u2014for instance, my Rent being \u00a3130 pr annum\u2014if the dividends are paid half yearly, I shall expect to receive \u00a365 at each of those times\u2014and if quarter yearly \u00a332.10. This it may be said will amount (calculating interest thereon) to more than the simple Rent; I acknowledge it; but as no security in my estimation is to be compared with that of Land, the difference and advantage of these payments are not an equivolent.\n        I have mentioned the Attorney General (Mr Lee) because he drew the former writings, and is better acquainted with the principles by which I was governed than any other: but it is not my\nintention to incur any expence in effecting this change\u2014nor shall I make any apology for the trouble I am giving you in doing it\u2014being with great esteem & regard Dear Sir Your Affecte Servant\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0371", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 19 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n          Mr Pearce,\n          Baltimore 19th Augt 1796.\n        At this place I have seen Mr Thos Ringgold, who is very desirous of availing himself of your testimony in his pending suit. I have told him, that my consent to this measure has been freely given\u2014and that it depended entirely upon yourself, and the state of your health, whether you attended or not.\n        Mentioning to him the probability of your quitting the Superintendance of my business, he said it was reported, that a person of the name of Cannon, who Manages for Saml Chew Esqr. was about to leave that employ; and that in his opinion, he was most excellently qualified for such a trust as mine.\n        You know that it is not my inclination to part with you; but if you are decided on doing it, it will be better for both you & me (if I can get a suitable person for a successor) that it should take place at the usual time (the first of Jany) than in March or April; when, it is not probable, I should be able to find a competent character unengaged to Superintend my concerns for the remainder of that yea\u27e8r.\u27e9\n        From these considerations, and understanding further, from Mr Ringgold, that you are well acquainted with the person & character of Mr Cannon, I am lead to request, if you should go to the Eastern shore; that you would ascertain with precision whether he means to quit Mr Chew\u2019\u27e8s\u27e9 Service or not. and if he does, and you (who know the nature of my concerns so well) should be clearly of opinion that he is competent to the judicious management of them, that you would know whether he would undertake the trust, and on what terms; for I never gave more than a hundred pounds Virga currency to any, except yourself; nor do I think I shall ever do it again to any one, whose character in this line, is not perfectly established.\n        It is not my wish to entice Mr Cannon (however deserving he may be) from Mr Chew; but if he has thoughts of leaving that Gentleman, I may as well apply to him\u2014if you do not continue another year\u2014as any one Else. and it is necessary for me to hear from you as soon as possible on this subject; as some persons have, and others may, offer as Managers.\n        If you have not re-engaged Violet and Cash, fail not to use your utmost exertions to supply their places, especially from the best\nfarming parts of the Eastern Shore, if it can be accomplished. A letter from you to me, written on the Eastern shore will certainly get to my hands if it is put into the line of Any Post Rider. I wish you well and am Your friend\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0372", "content": "Title: To George Washington from \u201cA Friend to the People,\u201d 21 August 1796\nFrom: \nTo: \n          Baltimore August 21st 1796\n        I took the liberty of writing you from Richmond about the time the Virginia assembly met; and the tempers of men were so variously agitated at that period, induced a belief that I might have made some observations more important than the event produced. I promised to Communicate some information of characters, which I imagined would have useful effects; but the ayes and noes being published, on every question of moment, and the Counties which the different members represented being also published rendered this intention unnecessary.\n        There were few of the Counties of any notice, which I did not visit, and tho many skilful attempts were practised, to produce every species of hostility, against the meas\u27e8ures\u27e9 of Government, yet the Counteracting influence predominate\u27e8d\u27e9 with visible triumph. It appeared certain to demonstration, from all I could see or find out, that the strength of understanding, in Virginia, even among the people, favoured with the busiest exertions what government had done, and which every good man, regarding the present and future welfare of his Country, must Conscientiously approve. In the course of my Journey, I generally was informed\nof every corrupt influence sowing sedition, and as generally laid down a rule to be the last visitant, and the most recent impression seemed not to be without a portion of utility. Many of the County Courts where the people were collected, was found experimentally, to be a good scene for exertion.\n        Whenever I met a town, where there was a newspaper, I published what appeared, to my understanding, right and applied it in other places. This appeared both just and necessary, on a Consideration of the studied artifices employed to corrupt the public mind. Upon the whole there is one truth certain, to my humble judgment, that the voice of the virginia people is not to be ascertained by the voice of their Constituents. This I could prove by a variety, nay innumerable instances, which Came within my observation, but it might be too tedious, as well as an unnecesary recital, for your perusal.\n        When the Commissioners come to act, on the spoliations Committed on our trade, a question may probably be made on the part of England unproductive of amicable adjustment. You know, Sir, it has been a rule of the English Law, that a Subject cannot forfeit his allegiance, nor Consequently claim expatriation. A large majority who have suffered by the depredations, of the English, on our trade may be included in this description. However the law made by a particular nation, cannot by any Construction, operate so as to affect another nation, in Cases where the Laws of nations have an uncontrouled right to determine. This then, being one of the Cases, embraced by the Laws of nations, and every authority having acquesced, that subjects or citizens may surrender their allegiance, and become citizens of another nation, on the usual Conditions establis\u27e8hed\u27e9 by such nation, it becomes conclusive that England must give up this principle, which possibly will be contend\u27e8ed\u27e9 for. But you are the best authority to determine, if any remedy should be wanting. I mention this with submission and diffidence.\n        There were several papers through the virginia Counties, in the form of petitions before last Congress met, remotely disapproving of what government had done. The principles in drawing these documents, were not positively know\u27e8n\u27e9 but strong presumptive circumstances unfolded well grounded suspicions of the source from whence they flowed. One of these papers, was handed through Frederick County, by Mr Hite who married a\nSister of Mr Madison, which (as was generally the Case) proved unsucessful.\n        I hope you will excuse this intrusion, on your more important avocations. The object is well intended, and tho no important benefit may result from the Communicati\u27e8on\u27e9 yet it is the duty of every good citizen to disclose to the executive any matter which occurs, particularly as you are in a great degree sequestered from the Common wal\u27e8ks\u27e9 of busy life, and immediate intercourse with the people.\n        I fervently wish you, a long and happy life, as it ha\u27e8s\u27e9 been glorious and virtuous, which I am assured, is most sincerely wished by the People of our happy Country, and by not one man than\n          A Friend to the People", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0373", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Henry Latrobe, 22 August 1796\nFrom: Latrobe, Benjamin Henry\nTo: Washington, George\n        The plough which you did me the favor to say you would try, is now ready, and I shall send it, directed to the care of Mr Porter, merchant, Alexandria, by the first vessel that is bound from hence to that port. Its merits in working you will easily ascertain upon trial, and should you be satisfied on that head, you will, I believe, find, that with very little care and precission your own people may repair or copy it. I am sorry I could not procure for you in time a castiron Mould-board. I shall be able to send you one soon. The turn of the board appears to me to be the most perfect possible, and applicable to any plough whatever.\n        Mr Gilbert Richardson under whose direction this plough has been made, has been in the habit of using the heavy Rotheram plough in England, and perfectly understands its construction. I should conceive myself particularly favored by your sending me the stock of your plough, which the loss of your ironwork has rendered useless to you; as I think I can get it perfectly reinstated\nhere. Should your engagements permit your attention to these lesser objects, I should be extremely flattered by your suffering me to show my sense of the very polite reception with which you honored me at Mt Vernon in endeavoring to be of the slightest assistance to your agricultural views.\n        We have had such constant rains here, and lower down upon James river, that almost all the lowland corn is much injured, and a great quantity totally destroyed. The highland crop looks and promises well should the weather become more favorable. There has been no fresh, nor even a considerable rise in James river notwithstanding the daily rains of the two months past. I have the honor to be Sir Your most obedient hble Servt\n          Benjn Henry Latrobe.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0374", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 22 August 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State Augt 22. 1796.\n        The inclosed letter came under cover to me from Wm Lithgow Attorney for the district of Maine, which he says contains his resignation. Daniel Davis Esquire of Portland is a lawyer well recommended by the Members of Congress to suceed Mr Lithgow, & I think has been doing the business of the office since Mr\nLithgow\u2019s indisposition prevented his attending the courts. The enquiries concerning a successor were made by me before the rising of Congress, in expectation of Mr Lithgow\u2019s resignation. I am with the highest respect sir your most obt servt\n          T. Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0375", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Smith, 22 August 1796\nFrom: Smith, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n          South 12th Street [Philadelphia] 22d August 1796.\n        William Alexander of Carlisle Esquire, by a Note which he left for me when he left the City last Week, informs me that application has been made on his behalf, for the Office of Surveyor, in the room of Mr Dewit, & requests that I would inform you what Character he has supported in civil life since the conclusion of the War. I comply with his request with pleasure, because, from a particular acquaintance with him during this period, I can say that his moral & political deportment, has been, not only unexceptionable, but such as to secure the esteem of every upright man\u2014of every friend to good order & government, to whom he is known.\n        As a Justice of the Peace, & as Lt Colonel Commandant of the Carlisle Regiment of Militia, he has given general satisfaction.\n        That he was an active & useful Officer on the late expedition against the Western insurgents, you have probably been informed by the Commander in Chief on that expedition.\n        He was in the occasional practice of Surveying while I resided in Carlisle. I have the honour to be, with profound respect, Sir, Your most obedient humble servant\n          Thomas Smith", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0376", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 23 August 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n        Letter not found: from William Pearce, 23 Aug. 1796. GW wrote Pearce on 28 Aug.: \u201cYour letter of the 23d instt \u2026 came to my hands yesterday.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0377", "content": "Title: To George Washington from the French Directory, c.24 August 1796\nFrom: French Directory\nTo: Washington, George\n          Monsieur le Pr\u00e9sident,\n        Le Directoire Ex\u00e9cutif inform\u00e9 que le Congr\u00e8s des Etats-unis, vient de passer le bill n\u00e9c\u00e9ssaire \u00e0 l\u2019ex\u00e9cution du trait\u00e9 de Londres du mois de 9bre 1794, a cru qu\u2019il \u00e9toit de son devoir, dans ces circonstances, de rappeller la L\u00e9gation fran\u00e7aise de Philadelphie.\n        La retraite de cette L\u00e9gation ne doit point \u00eatre consider\u00e9e par vous, et par le peuple am\u00e9ricain, comme une rupture, mais seulement comme une marque d\u2019un m\u00e9contentement l\u00e9gitime. Le Citoyen Adet, Ministre plenipotentiaire est charg\u00e9, avant de prendre cong\u00e9 de vous, de vous faire, au nom du Gouvernement fran\u00e7ais, une d\u00e9claration que le Directoire Ex\u00e9cutif vous prie de regarder comme l\u2019expression formelle de ses justes plaintes et de ses v\u0153ux. Puissent le Congr\u00e8s et le Pr\u00e9sident des Etats-Unis, par un prompt retour \u00e0 des principes plus conformes aux vrais int\u00e9rests de \u27e8la\u27e9 nation Am\u00e9ricaine, h\u00e2ter l\u2019heureuse \u00e9poque o\u00f9 il Sera permis au Directoire Ex\u00e9cutif de r\u00e9tablir entre le Gouvernement f\u00e9d\u00e9ral, et lui, tous les anciens rapports d\u2019amiti\u00e9 d\u2019harmonie et de bonne intelligence!\n        Ce Sont l\u00e0, Monsieur Le Pr\u00e9sident, les v\u0153ux du Directoire Ex\u00e9cutif. Ils sont tous pour la gloire et la prosp\u00e9rit\u00e9 des Etats-Unis.\n        Donn\u00e9 au Palais national du Directoire Ex\u00e9cutif, muni du sceau de la R\u00e9publique \u00e0 Paris le [7] fructidor l\u2019an 4e de la Republique fran\u00e7aise une et i\u27e8ndivisible\u27e9\n          Les membres composant le Directoire Ex\u00e9cutif", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0378", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 24 August 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        private.\n        I inclose you a rough draught of a talk to the Cherokees and instructions to agent Dinsmore, containing a plan for promoting their civilization and rendering the management of them easier and more economical. If you think favourably of it I will revise and correct it and have Mr Dinsmore dispatched to his station. You will find it to contain little more than a mode for executing the laws respecting the Indians which contemplate approximating them nearer to the civilized State, and the law passed at the late session of Congress. Dinsmore seems a prudent man. I have consulted him upon the practicableness of teaching the women to spin and weave, and he thinks it may be accomplished. With the most sincere respect I have the honor to be Sir your ob. st\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0379", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Brunner, 25 August 1796\nFrom: Brunner, William\nTo: Washington, George\n          State of South CarolinaOrangebourgh District\n          Honourable Sir\n        Since your Excellence President of the united States, ev\u2019ry Subject ought to gratify with Submissive Thankfullness this great blessing to your Honour. I take the Liberty in these Lines, to reveal, that (while Science, Art, and Agriculture &c: most florishing) some usefull Instruments to the ease of the Labourers of Oeconomie very beneficial, having Studied many years to find out Machines for that purpose, finding a possibility of a Machine for a Saw-Mill without Wind, Water and Horse, that one Man can Saw more planks with great ease, than Two Men of hand with hard Labour; this Saw-Mill may be erected at any place, at the River bank, Swamps, Shipyards to Saw great and Small Timber; to any desire and pleasure. Secondly a Machine, that one Man can easely drive four great Water-pumps, to be used in cities, Salt Works, and might be fitted to Ships or Vessels to have them in Time of need these Same Machine may be used if 2. or 4. Mortars is made instead of pumps, to Stamp Rice, peal Barley, and for the Western parts, where Mills is Scarce, to crake Corn with great ease, further for the cultivators of Hemp to apply 4. Breaks with once to clean it, if their was only tenders to each, and to Soften it in the afore Said Mortars; it may be applied to\nmake Gun powder with Sifters to it, the Man driving the Work may Stand a distance of it. hoping to grant! I am Born in Germany learning no trade, but from my Infancy tried to Work in Wood advanced with Such genuity, that I have Build Gear Mills and Saw-Mills; joiner and Cooper Work done. Missfortune fell upon me for about 30 Years getting Sore leggs, now a cripple these many Years, maintaining myself and family under great difficulty and misery honestly; tho not to be a burden to any person. I had Studied as a fore Said many Years upon those Machines, but never brought it to a perfect idea, till now. Time and Season produces its own! now am poor, 66. Years old, Scarce able to Work upon account the afore Said Misery, had in mind that the Mistery of those Machines should die with me; revealing to a friend the project of these Machines with my intention, this friend Sayd: he had no doubt, if I make it known to your Excellency, Such a valuable Mistery would be greatly rewarded, to comfort me, in my circumstance miserys because it was an Oeconomical, very valuable one, for public Trade and Agriculture. am informed, that ancient customary the inventors being greatly rewarded, for Such advantageous, usefull Project for all the united States. Supposing, it may be Said: that these Machines was Costly and Expensive? Answer: No. the first Machine, the Saw-Mill, can be made of Wood, it takes but little Iron (except the pushing Wheel and Saw) a Workman may finish the hohl in about Two Week\u2019s, if their is found an attendance. The second, is but Simple, and easy to be made, if required without any Iron. Therefore beeing afraid I am a poor Man, my invention might be rejected and despised as that poor Man\u2019s Written Ecclesiastes 9 vers 15. 16. Nevertheless, having Confidence unto your Excellency to make me a most generous promise of Reward, and after receiving your Excellency\u2019s promise and Answer, I Shall make the afore Said Machines in Small, put them in a Chest carefully and Send over at your pleasure and View\u27e8,\u27e9 than afterwards, if desired, to make it at large, to the perfect Use, to give a full complete Mansion and description of every piece belonging to it, and how to place it, to every Persons Satisfaction who is intented to enjoy the benefit of it. I have the Honour to Remain with a Submissive devotion; to be Your Excellence most humble Servant\n          William Brunner\n          N.B. the Saw-Mill can be taken depart an[d] moved at any place.\n          Address: To William Brunner the Dutch Cooper living 7 miles from Orangeburgh To the care of Mr Abraham Marckley King Street Charleston South Carolina.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0380", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 25 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n        Private\n          My dear Sir,\n          Philadelphia 25th Augt 1796\n        I have given the Paper herewith enclosed, several serious & attentive readings; and prefer it greatly to the other draughts, being more copious on material points; more dignified on the whole; and with less egotism. Of course less exposed to criticism, & better calculated to meet the eye of discerning readers (foreigners particularly, whose curiosity I have little doubt will lead them to inspect it attentively & to pronounce their opinions on the performance).\n        When the first draught was made, besides having an eye to the consideration above mentioned, I thought the occasion was fair (as I had latterly been the subject of considerable invective) to say what is there contained of myself\u2014and as the Address was designed in a more especiall manner for the Yeomanry of this Country I conceived it was proper they should be informed of the object of that abuse; the silence with which it had been treated\u2014and the consequences which would naturally flow from such unceasing & virule\u27e8nt\u27e9 attempts to destroy all confidence in the Executive part of the Government; and that it was best to do it in language tha\u27e8t\u27e9 was plain & intelligable to their understand\u27e8ing.\u27e9\n        The draught now sent, compr\u27e8e\u27e9hends the most, if not all\nthese matters; is better expressed; and I am persuade\u27e8d\u27e9 goes as far as it ought with respect to any personal mention of myself.\n        I should have seen no occasi\u27e8on\u27e9 myself, for its undergoing a revision\u2014But as your letter of the 30th Ulto whi\u27e8ch\u27e9 accompanied it, intimates a wish to do this\u2014and knowing that it can be more correctly done after a writing has been out of sight for sometime than while it is in hand, I send it in conformity there\u27e8to\u27e9\u2014with a request, however, that you w\u27e8d\u27e9 return it as soon as you have carefully reexamined it; for it is my intention to hand it to the Public before I leave this City, to which I came for the purpose of meeting General Pinckney\u2014receiving the Minesters from Spain & Holland\u2014and for the dispatch of other business which could not be so well executed by written communications between the heads of Departments & myself as by oral conferences. So soon as these are accomplished I shall return; at any rate I expect to do so by, or before the tenth of next month for the purpose of bringing up my family for the Winter.\n        I shall expunge all that is marked in the paper as unimportant &ca &ca and as you perceive some marginal notes, written with a pencil, I pray you to give the sentiments so noticed mature consideration. After which, and in every other part, if change or alteration takes place in the draught, let them be so clearly interlined\u2014erazed\u2014or referred to in the Margin as that no mistake may happen in copying it for the Press.\n        To what Editor in this City do you think it had best be sent for Publication? Will it be proper to accompany it with a note to him, expressing (as the principal design of it is to remove doubts at the next Election) that it is hoped, or expected, that the State Printers will give it a place in their Gazettes\u2014or preferable to let it be carried by my private Secretary to that Press which is destined to usher it to the World & suffer it to work its way afterwards? If you think the first most eligable, let me ask you to sketch such a note as you may judge applicable to the occasion. With affectionate regard I am always Yours\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0381", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Rufus King, 25 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: King, Rufus\n        Private\n          Philadelphia 25th Augt 1796\n        Will you do me the favor to cause the enclosed notification to be inserted in some public Paper, agreeably to the Decree of the High Court of Chancery in Virginia\u2014annexed thereto.\n        It has been a long, troublesome and vexatious business to me; and I wish to close it finally and effectually in the manner designated. One part of which (depositing of the money) I have already complied with\u2014and wish to do the same by the other part\u2014namely, the Publication in England.\n        The persons interested (if any of them are in existence) lives, most probably, at or near Newcastle in Northumberland County England. Whether it would be best therefore to send it there in the first instance for publication, or to publish it in the Metropolis (London) with a request that it may be re-published there, I leave to your better judgment in these matters.\n        Whatever expence is incurred, be pleased either to charge in your public account, or send me a note of it, and the amount shall in either case be paid to the Secretary of State here.\n        I am sorry and almost ashamed to give you trouble in so trifling (though to me, interesting a business) but as I conceived it would be the most effectual mode of executing it, I rely on your goodness to excuse it\u2014and to send me one of the Papers containing the publication of the notice.\n        I hope you and family had a short and pleasant passage\u2014Present me if you please to Mrs King, and be assured of the esteem & regard with which I am\u2014Dear Sir Your most Obedt Servt\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0382", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James Monroe, 25 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Monroe, James\n        Duplicate\n          Philadelphia 25th Augt 1796\n        Your favor of the 24th of March written in Cypher, never got to my hands until the 10th instant at Mount Vernon; nor were the contents of it known to me until my arrival in this City on the 21st. For the information contained in it, and your attention thereto; I offer you my best thanks.\n        Having no clue by which to discover the fact, I am very much at a loss to conjecture by what means a private letter of mine, written to a friend\u2014and sent by an American Vessel should have got into the hands of the French Directory. I shall readily acknowledge however, that the one you allude to, directed to Mr Gouvr Morris was a long & confidential one; but I deny that there is any thing contained in it that the French\nGovernment could take exception to, unless the expression of an ardent wish that the United States might remain in Peace with all the World\u2014taking no part in the disputes of any part of it, should have produced this effect. Giving it as my further opinion that the sentiments of the mass of the Citizens in this country were in unison with mine.\n        Confidential as this letter was expected to be, I have no objection to its being seen by any body; and there is certainly some mistake in saying I had no copy thereof when there is a press one now before me, in which I discover no expression that in the eye of liberality & candour would be deemed objectionable.\n        To understand the scope & design of my letter properly, and to give it a fair interpretation, it is necessary to observe (as will appear by the contents of it) that it was written in answer to very long ones from the Gentleman to whom it was Addressed; which contained much political information of the state of things in different parts of Europe; and related among others, the substance of a conversation in which he, and Lord Grenville, as private Gentlemen had just been engaged, and in which it was observed by the latter, that if they were to judge from the publications in this country, the disposition of it was unfriendly to Great Britain; but in free countries he could readily account for such publications: However, that there was one which wore a more serious aspect, as indicative of the sense of the government; and alluded to Colo. Innes\u2019s report of his proceedings in Kentucky.\n        In my noticing this part of Mr Morris\u2019s communication I tell him, that with respect to the Publication of that report it was an unauthorised act, and declared by that Gentleman as soon as he saw it in the Gazettes to have been done incorrectly; and that, with respect to the temper of the People of the United States, as it respected Great Britain, his Lordship ought not to be surprized, if it appeared disturbed & irritated, after the sense of the government had been so often expressed in strong remonstrances against the conduct of their Indian Agents\u2014Privateersmen\u2014Impressment of our Seamen\u2014Insults of their Ships of War &ca &ca.\u2014Adding, that it afforded us very litle satisfaction, their disclaiming these as unauthorised Acts (which the British Administration had done in some instances) while the actors were suffered to go unpunished. I dwell chiefly, and fully on this part of his letter; and reminded him of the\nindifference with which the advances of the United States, to form a Commercial Treaty with Great Britain, as well since as before the establishment of their present government had been received\u2014and concluded by saying that a liberal policy towards us (though I did not Suppose sentiments of that sort from me to a member of the British Administration would have much weight) was the only road to a perfect reconciliation\u2014and that, if he should again converse with Lord Grenville on this Subject he was at liberty unofficially to express these as my sentiments.\n        Thus, Sir, you have the substance, candidly related, of a letter which you say, you have been told by a person \u201cwho has read it, has produced an ill effect\u201d when, in my opinion, the contrary (viewing it in the light of an unreserved and confidential communication) ought to have been produced. For I repeat it again, that unless my pacific disposition was displeasing, nothing else could have given umbrage by the most rigid construction of the letter; or that will shew in the remotest degree any disposition on my part to favor the British interest in their dispute with France.\n        My conduct in public and private life, as it relates to the important struggle in which the latter Nation is engaged has been uniform from the commencement of it, and may be summed up in a few words. That I have always wished well to the French Revolution. That I have always given it as my decided opinion that no Nation had a right to intermeddle in the internal concerns of another\u2014That every one had a right to form, and adopt whatever Government they liked best to live under themselves\u2014and that if this country could consistently with its engagements, maintain a strict Neutrality and thereby preserve Peace, it was bound so to do, by motives of Policy\u2014Interest\u2014and every other consideration that ought to actuate a People situated and circumstanced as we are; already deeply in Debt, and in a convalescent state from the struggle we have been engaged in ourselves.\n        On these principles I have uniformly and steadily proceeded\u2014bidding defiance to calumnies calculated to sow the Seeds of distrust in the French Nation, and to excite their belief of an influence possessed by Great Britain in the Councils of this country\u2014than which nothing is more unfounded or injurious; the object of its pacific conduct being truly deliniated above. I am\u2014Dear Sir Your Obedient and Very Humble Servt\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0383", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 25 August 1796\nFrom: Morris, Robert\nTo: Washington, George\n          Philada August 25th 1796\n        In the year 1791\u2014I purchased of the State of Massachusetts a Tract of Country lying within the boundaries of the State of Newyork which had been Ceded by the latter to the former State under the Sanction & with the Concurrence of the Congress of the United States, This Tract of Land is bounded to the East by the Genesee River, to the North by Lake Ontario, to the West partly by Lake Erie & partly by the Boundary Line of the Pensylvania Triangle & to the South by the North Boundary Line of the State of Pensylvania, A Printed Brief of my Title I take the liberty to transmit Herewith, To perfect this Title it is necessary to purchase of the Seneca Nation of Indians their Native right, which I should have done soon after the purchase was made of the State of Massachusetts, but that I felt myself restrained, from doing so by Motives of Public consideration. The War between the Western Indian Nations & the United States did not extend to the Six Nations of which the Seneca\u2019s Nation is one, and as I apprehended that if this Nation should sell its right during the existance of that War, they might the more readily be induced to join the Enemies of my Country I determ\u27e8ined\u27e9 not to make the purchase whilst that War lasted. When peace was made with the Indian Nations I turned my thoughts towards the purchase which is to me an object very interesting, but upon its being represented that a little longer patience untill the Western Posts should be delivered up by the British Government might still be of public utility I concluded to wait for that event also which is now happily accomplished, and there seems no obstacle remaining to restrain me from making the purchase, especially as I have reason to believe the Indians are desirous to make the Sale[.] the delays which have already taken place & which arose solely\nfrom the considerations above mentioned have been extremely detrimental to my private affairs, but still being desirous to comply with Formalities prescribed by Certain Laws of the United States, altho\u2019 those Laws probably do not reach my Case, I now make application to the President of the United States and request that He will Nominate and appoint a Commissioner to be present and Preside at a Treaty which He will be pleased to Authorize to be held with the Seneca Nation for the purpose of enabling me to make a purchase in Conformity with the Formalities required by sd Laws of the Tract of Country for which I have already paid a very large Sum of Money. My right to the preemption is unequivocal, and the Land is become so necessary to the growing Population and surrounding Settlements that it is with difficulty that the white People can be restrained from Squatting or setting down upon these Lands, which if they should do, it may probably bring on Contentions with the Six Nations. This will be prevented by a timely fair & honorable purchase[.] This proposed Treaty ought to be held immediately before the Hunting Season, or another year will be lost, as the Indians Cannot be Collected during that Season, The loss of another year under the payments I have made for these Lands, would be ruinous to my affairs, and as I have paid so great deferrence to Public considerations whilst they did exist, I expect & hope that my request will be readily granted now when there can be no cause for delay, especially If the Indians are willing to sell, which will be tested by the offer to buy. With the most perfect Esteem & respect I am Sir Your most Obedt & most hble Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0384", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Persse, 27 August 1796\nFrom: Persse, William\nTo: Washington, George\n          Roxburrow Near LoughreaIreland August 27th 1796\n        Mr Abraham Bradly of the Town of Loughrea, Informs me that a Mr Abraham Bradly of Carolina, has Lodged in your Hands a sum of Money, amounting to four Hundred and fifty pounds, to\nbe paid to any of his Brors if Liveing, if not to his next Heirs\u2014I request the Favor of you to Inform me, if such Sum has been left with you for the above purposes\u2014& what Steps will be Necessary for obtaining it please to Excuse the Trouble I give you & believe me Sr your Faithfull Huml. Servt\n          Wm Persse\n          P:S: Mr Wallace Desires his best respects to you & Mrs Washington.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0387", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 28 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n          Mr Pearce,\n          Philadelphia 28th Augt 1796\n        Your letter of the 23d instt with the Reports, came to my hands yesterday; and this will be put into the Post office tomorrow for Chester Town.\n        From what you have said of the person I wa\u27e8s\u27e9 enquiring after, I am well Satisfied h\u27e8e\u27e9 would not answer my purposes, as a Manager. Propensity to gaming, & running about, are such disqualifications in \u27e8m\u27e9y estimation, as scarcely to find a coun\u27e8te\u27e9rpoise in all the good properties (h\u27e8owev\u27e9er numerous they may be) he can po\u27e8ssess.\u27e9 No further thought therefore ne\u27e8ed\u27e9 \u27e8mutilated, \u27e9ed on him.\n        \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 person, I hav\u27e8mutilated\u27e9 as yo\u27e8mutilated\u27e9 a very good \u27e8mutilated\u27e9\u2014but \u27e8mutilated\u27e9er acted u\u27e8mutilated\u27e9 Scale \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 ever had hi\u27e8s\u27e9 \u27e8mutilated\u27e9riety of objects \u27e8mutilated\u27e9e (to use a c\u27e8mutilated\u27e9 of Water. I\u27e8mutilated\u27e9d of any, as yo\u27e8mutilated\u27e9 stand upon better g\u27e8ro\u27e9und than he does; being bred a Farm\u27e8er\u27e9 and understanding, as I am told he \u27e8d\u27e9oes, Stock and Meadowing well. I shall continue my enquiries, more \u27e8mi\u27e9nutely, into his qualifications; Bu\u27e8t\u27e9 as it is a matter interesting to me, t\u27e8o o\u27e9btain a person of experience, & es\u27e8ta\u27e9blished character, I wish you would m\u27e8a\u27e9ke my wants known, and if yo\u27e8u s\u27e9hould find a person whom you judge \u27e8fr\u27e9om your own knowledge, or such inform\u27e8a\u27e9tion as you can entirely rely on; You \u27e8w\u27e9ould mention him to me, and ascertai\u27e8n\u27e9 whether he is to b\u27e8e\u27e9 had, and on wha\u27e8t\u27e9 terms.\n        At any ra\u27e8te en\u27e9deavor to get \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 good Oversee\u27e8rs\u27e9 \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 \u27e8t\u27e9he places of Vi\u27e8o\u27e9let & Cash. \u27e8mutilated\u27e9uld be had from \u27e8mutilated\u27e9est farm \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 \u27e8t\u27e9he East\u27e8ern\u27e9 \u27e8mutilated\u27e9e, I should \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 \u27e8be\u27e9cause they \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 more in \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 \u27e8fa\u27e9rming than \u27e8mutilated\u27e9e in Virg\u27e8inia\u27e9 \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 but Much \u27e8mutilated\u27e9s at it, mergin\u27e8g\u27e9 \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 cultivation \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 \u27e8com\u27e9patible with \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 & Graising.\n        \u27e8You\u27e9 have not said whether Neal conti\u27e8nues\u27e9 or not, on his present lay; nor n\u27e8ot\u27e9hing concerning Allison. The latter \u27e8mutilated\u27e9eed, as he has a wife, I am myself in d\u27e8ou\u27e9bt about; even if he was disposed to stay, \u27e8& I\u27e9 would not agree to it at any rate, u\u27e8n\u27e9less his wife will undertake the ca\u27e8re\u27e9 & management of the Spinners & knit\u27e8te\u27e9rs, under his Inspection, & authority to make\nthem do their duty properly; without suffering such imposions in the yarn, and idle doings as the Garde\u27e8n\u27e9ers wife submitted to.\n        If you get this l\u27e8etter\u27e9 on the Eastern s\u27e8hore\u27e9, answer it by \u27e8the fi\u27e9rst Post, th\u27e8at I m\u27e9ay know it ha\u27e8s bee\u27e9n received, \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 t my repea\u27e8mutilated\u27e9 sam\u27e8mutilated\u27e9ts in a Seco\u27e8mutilated\u27e9 to \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 \u27e8t\u27e9he receipt \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 it ma\u27e8mutilated\u27e9cur powe\u27e8r\u27e9 \u27e8mutilated\u27e9swer \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 parts of \u27e8mutilated\u27e9, & presu\u27e8me\u27e9 \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 will send the Se\u27e8mutilated\u27e9 particular attent\u27e8mutilated\u27e9 \u27e8yo\u27e9ur friend & h\u27e8mutilated\u27e9\n          Go: W\u27e8ashington\u27e9\n          I sent last We\u27e8ek\u27e9, in a letter to Mrs Washington, but if y\u27e8o\u27e9u left Mount Vernon on friday, it coul\u27e8d\u27e9 not have got to hand before\u2014Doctr P\u27e8er\u27e9kins\u2019s Patent Instrument, with directions for curing Pains & Inflamations of all sorts\u2014particularly such as af\u27e8f\u27e9ect you. He himself speaks confidently of his Success; and there are many respectable certificates in confirmation of what he asserts\u2014Be these as they may, there is one thing in it we are sure of\u2014and \u27e8tha\u27e9t is, if it does no \u27e8g\u27e9ood, it will do \u27e8no\u27e9 harm\u2014conseque\u27e8nt\u27e9ly the applica\u27e8tion\u27e9 may be made \u27e8with\u27e9out apprehen\u27e8sion\u27e9 of bad \u27e8or\u27e9 da\u27e8ngerou\u27e9s consequences \u27e8mutilated\u27e9 \u27e8illegible\u27e9 tried \u27e8mutilated\u27e9.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0388", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the Cherokee Nation, 29 August 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Cherokee Nation\n            Beloved Cherokees,\n          Many years have passed since the White people first came to America. In that long space of time many good men have considered how the condition of the Indian natives of the country might be improved; and many attempts have been made to effect it. But, as we see at this day, all these attempts have been nearly fruitless. I also have thought much on this subject, and anxiously wished that the various Indian tribes, as well as their neighbours, the White people, might enjoy in abundance all the good things which make life comfortable and happy. I have considered how this could be done; and have discovered but one path that could lead them to that desirable situation. In this path I wish all the Indian nations to walk. From the information received concerning you, my beloved Cherokees, I am inclined to hope that you are prepared to take this path and disposed to pursue it. It may seem a little difficult to enter; but if you make the attempt, you will find every obstacle easy to be removed. Mr. Dinsmoor, my beloved agent to your nation, being here, I send to you this talk by him. He will have it interpreted to you, and particularly explain my meaning.\n          Beloved Cherokees,\n          You now find that the game with which your woods once abounded, are growing scarce; and you know when you cannot meet a deer or other game to kill, that you must remain hungry; you know also when you can get no skins by hunting, that the traders will give you neither powder nor cloathing; and you\nknow that without other implements for tilling the ground than the hoe, you will continue to raise only scanty crops of corn. Hence you are sometimes exposed to suffer much from hunger and cold; and as the game are lessening in numbers more and more, these sufferings will increase. And how are you to provide against them? Listen to my words and you will know.\n          My beloved Cherokees,\n          Some among you already experience the advantage of keeping cattle and hogs: let all keep them and increase their numbers, and you will ever have a plenty of meat. To these add sheep, and they will give you cloathing as well as food. Your lands are good and of great extent. By proper management you can raise live stock not only for your own wants, but to sell to the White people. By using the plow you can vastly increase your crops of corn. You can also grow Wheat, (which makes the best bread) as well as other useful grain. To these you will easily add flax and cotton, which you may dispose of to the White people, or have it made up by your own women into cloathing for yourselves. Your wives and daughters can soon learn to spin and weave; and to make this certain, I have directed Mr. Dinsmoor to procure all the necessary apparatus for spinning and weaving, and to hire a woman to teach the use of them. He will also procure some plows and other implements of husbandry, with which to begin the improved cultivation of the ground which I recommend, and employ a fit person to shew you how they are to be used. I have further directed him to procure some cattle and sheep for the most prudent and industrious men, who shall be willing to exert themselves in tilling the ground and raising those useful animals. He is often to talk with you on these subjects, and give you all necessary information to promote your success. I must therefore desire you to listen to him; and to follow his advice. I appointed him to dwell among you as the Agent of the United States, because I judged him to be a faithful man, ready to obey my instructions and to do you good.\n          But the cares of the United States are not confined to your single nation. They extend to all the Indians dwelling on their borders. For which reason other agents are appointed; and for the four southern nations there will be a general or principal agent who will visit all of them, for the purpose of maintaining peace and friendship among them and with the United States;\nto superintend all their affairs; and to assist the particular agents with each nation in doing the business assigned them. To such general or principal agent I must desire your careful attention. He will be one of our greatly beloved men. His whole time will be employed in contriving how to do you good, and you will therefore act wisely to follow his advice. The first general or principle agent will be Colonel Benjamin Hawkins, a man already known and respected by you. I have chosen him for this office because he is esteemed for a good man; has a knowledge of Indian customs, and a particular love and friendship for all the Southern tribes.\n          Beloved Cherokees,\n          What I have recommended to you I am myself going to do. After a few moons are passed I shall leave the great town and retire to my farm. There I shall attend to the means of increasing my cattle, sheep and other useful animals; to the growing of corn, wheat, and other grain, and to the employing of women in spinning and weaving; all which I have recommended to you, that you may be as comfortable and happy as plenty of food, clothing and other good things can make you.\n          Beloved Cherokees,\n          When I have retired to my farm I shall hear of you; and it will give me great pleasure to know that you have taken my advice, and are walking in the path which I have described. But before I retire, I shall speak to my beloved man, the Secretary of War, to get prepared some medals, to be given to such Cherokees as by following my advice shall best deserve them. For this purpose Mr. Dinsmoor is from time to time to visit every town in your nation. He will give instructions to those who desire to learn what I have recommended. He will see what improvements are made; who are most industrious in raising cattle; in growing corn, wheat, cotton and flax; and in spinning and weaving; and on those who excel these rewards are to be bestowed.\n          Beloved Cherokees,\n          The advice I here give you is important as it regards your nation; but still more important as the event of the experiment made with you may determine the lot of many nations. If it succeeds, the beloved men of the United States will be encouraged to give the same assistance to all the Indian tribes within their boundaries. But if it should fail, they may think it vain to\nmake any further attempts to better the condition of any Indian tribe; for the richness of the soil and mildness of the air render your country highly favorable for the practice of what I have recommended.\n          Beloved Cherokees,\n          The wise men of the United States meet together once a year, to consider what will be for the good of all their people. The wise men of each separate state also meet together once or twice every year, to consult and do what is good for the people of their respective states. I have thought that a meeting of your wise men once or twice a year would be alike useful to you. Every town might send one or two of its wisest counsellors to talk together on the affairs of your nation, and to recommend to your people whatever they should think would be serviceable. The beloved agent of the United States would meet with them. He would give them information of those things which are found good by the white people, and which your situation will enable you to adopt. He would explain to them the laws made by the great council of the United States, for the preservation of peace; for the protection of your lands; for the security of your persons; for your improvement in the arts of living, and for promoting your general welfare. If it should be agreeable to you that your wise men should hold such meetings, you will speak your mind to my beloved man, Mr. Dinsmoor, to be communicated to the President of the United States, who will then give such directions as shall be proper.\n          Beloved Cherokees,\n          That this talk may be known to all your nation, and not forgotten, I have caused it to be printed, and directed one, signed by my own hand, to be lodged in each of your towns. The Interpreters will, on proper occasions, read and interpret the same to all your people.\n          Beloved Cherokees,\n          Having been informed that some of your chiefs wished to see me in Philadelphia, I have sent them word that I would receive a few of the most esteemed. I now repeat that I shall be glad to see a small number of your wisest chiefs; but I shall not expect them \u2019till November. I shall take occasion to agree with them on the running of the boundary line between your lands and ours, agreeably to the treaty of Holston. I shall expect them to inform\nme what chiefs are to attend the running of this line, and I shall tell them whom I appoint to run it; and the time and place of beginning may then be fixed.\n          I now send my best wishes to the Cherokees, and pray the Great Spirit to preserve them.\n          GIVEN at the City of Philadelphia, the twenty-ninth day of August, in the year one thousand seven hundred and ninety-six, and in the twenty-first year of the Independence of the United States of America\n            Go: Washington\n          By Command of the President of the United States,\n            [James McHenrySecy of War]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0389", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Gordon, 29 August 1796\nFrom: Gordon, William\nTo: Washington, George\n          My dear Sir\n          St Neots Hunts [England] Augt 29. 1796.\n        The most cordial congratulations attend your Excellency on your firm & successful conduct during the last Session. The United States are as much indebted to you for the same, as for procuring them a treaty with Great Britain; truly & greatly advantageous, though it may not equal the sanguine wishes of many; still infinitely preferable to a rupture, which would have ruined multitudes, benefited but very few comparatively, & might have endangered your national existence. Under God, you have been the happy instrument of saving your country twice; first in a time of war, & now in a time of peace.\n        I contemplate your retirement from the Presidency at the close of your second tour of service, with no small pleasure; under the persuasion, that it will not only redound to your credit, equally with your quitting the military command after you had seen the war brought to an honorable conclusion; but put you in possession of that retired private life, of which you are so desirous. Yours will be in truth Otium cum Dignitate. May you long find the sweets of it; & while you are enjoying earthly comforts, experience the pleasures of religion; & by meditation & the various acts of devotion prescribed in the sacred Oracles, be preparing for the eternal glories & joys of heaven, which every real christian is promised by his divine Leader, the Captain of his salvation, the King of kings & the Lord of lords!\n        This will be accompanied with a small miniature coloured print of me. I sat for the original painting, before Mr Jay had his first audience, & in the adjoining street, which gave me the opportunity of seeing him oftener than I should otherwise have done. You will be pleased to accept of it & Wyvill\u2019s Correspondence with Pitt, as a small token of that sincere affection which I bear towards you. Mrs Gordon & Self enjoy, through the goodness of our heavenly Father, no small share of health, considering that we are in the sixty eighth year of our pilgrimage. It is our wish & prayer, that you & your Lady may be equally favored, & if it pleases God even more so.\n        We are much obliged to your Excellency for the kind notice you took of our nephew Oliver Field. His father died the last friday in his 78th year.\n        In Great Britain our gathering storm seems to be thickening apace over the heads of the inhabitants. And, old as I am, were my circumstances sufficient for my living in a state of independence, I should be strongly inclined to prepare for a removal next spring, if spared, & should we not have a peace, of which I have no idea; for I suppose the French terms will be\u2014The restoration of all taken from France & her ally the Dutch\u2014& that these we shall not consent to, while we can continue the war which our rulers may attempt doing, till a national convulsion exists & hazards every thing.\n        Your Excellency & Lady will be pleased to accept of our most affectionate regards. I remain Dear Sir, Your sincere friend & humble servant\n          William Gordon", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0390", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 29 August 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        It appears from the conferences between the representatives of the Creek nation at Coleraine, and Commissioners of the U.S. that the former have required and the latter promised, that the\nPresident would send into their country, within four months from the date of the treaty, a person instructed upon the following points.\n        1. To fix upon proper scites for trading houses & posts, and explain to the nation by towns or tribes, the reasons for having them established within their boundary line.\n        2. To explain the plan of trade to the different Towns or tribes.\n        3 To confer with and advise the nation, how it ought to conduct itself in case the murderers of the Indians by Harrison & others should escape without being punished.\n        4. To explain the object for running the boundary line between Spain and the United States.\n        5. To notify the nation of the time when the President will be pleased to run the boundary line between the Creeks and the U.S. and the place where the running is to commence, in order that persons may be appointed to attend on the part of the nation.\n        As these explanations have been promised and have been deemed necessary by the Indians who convened at Coleraine and the commissioners, it might not be proper to with hold them upon a mere point of reconomony, especially as there are other objects of importance that may be accomplished by the person whom the President be pleased to employ on this occasion.\n        One of the points I allude to is; to ascertain, in execution of the intimation given by the President to the State of Georgia, whether the Creek nation are disposed to sell their land laying between the Oconee and Oakmulgee; and if they are the terms upon which they will part with it.\n        Another point, is to ascertain, whether the state of things in the Creek nation, be favourable to the introduction of a system of civilization, such as has been adopted for trial for the Cherokees.\n        It strikes me, that several circumstances conspire, which would render such an experiment more likely to succeed now than at any former period.\n        The Creeks are strongly impressed with the opinion, that the U.S. mean to conduct towards them with candor and justice; to protect all their rights; to perform the promises which have been made them; and besides, are become sensible that the arm of the U.S. is too powerful to be resisted.\n        Whatever therefore may be proposed by the President, (so long as they find themselves & their land protected by the U.S.) will it is probable be well received by them, and submitted to or adopted if not too repugnant to their habits or established prejudices.\n        This idea cherishes the hope that something effectual may be done towards their civilization. That what has been long contemplated is not far distant. That the seed which has been sown is not all destroyed. And that the time is arrived, to benefit the poor Indian by the same means which will preserve them in a state of peace and attract to the U.S. the most honourable fame.\n        The States which are anxious to get the Indian land will see large portions of it, by the operation of these causes become useless to them, and consequently placed in a situation to be easily obtained. Besides. If they can be brought to support themselves on a smaller circumference of land, they will have fewer points from which to attack the frontier inhabitants, and will be more in the power of the U.S. than when spread over an immense tract of country.\n        To render the system from which those effects are expected, operative, requires no more than a certain degree of patience on the part of the States which covet their land; and a due application of the means which the laws have placed within the reach of the executive.\n        If you should approve of sending a person into their country to execute any or all of these purposes I shall turn my attention to frame the proper instructions and lay them before you as soon as possible for consideration.\n        Mr Hawkins appears to me to possess the necessary feelings and character for such a mission, if he will undertake it; and should you approve may be spoken to on the subject. With the greatest respect I have the Honour to be Sir your most ob. & hble st\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0391", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 29 August 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          [Philadelphia] Monday Evening, 9 o\u2019clock [29 Aug. 1796]\n        I have this moment left Colo. Hawkins\u2014I called twice in the course of the day without finding him at his lodgings. His ideas & wishes correspond with what I mentioned to-day\u2014to be the superintendant of the four southern nations\u2014Chickasaws, Cherokees, Choctaws & Creeks\u2014the latter requiring at present peculiar attention. He would prefer the Indian Department to that of the Surveyor. Two thousand dollars a year he thinks enough.\n        Mr Van Polanen called upon me to-day. I informed him that probably it would be convenient for you to receive him to-morrow noon as the Minister Resident of the U. Netherlands. If I am\nhonoured with your orders on this subject in the morning, I will advise him thereof. I am most respectfully, sir, your obt servant\n          T. Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0392", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 31 August 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n        I inclose you a draught of a letter to Colonel Stevenson which if approved of may be sent to him to-day.\n        If you are not using the plans of the Forts Detroit and drawings of the lakes &c. in that quarter which Gen. Wayne left with you I will be much obliged to you for them to correct and complete a map which is in hand for the war office. With the greatest respect I have the honour to be Sir your most ob. St\n          James McHenry", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0393", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 31 August 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n        Letter not found: from William Pearce, 31 Aug. 1796. GW wrote Pearce on 5 Sept.: \u201cYour letter of the 31st of Augt \u2026 came duly to hand.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0395", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas G. Johnston, 1 September 1796\nFrom: Johnston, Thomas G.\nTo: Washington, George\n            [Philadelphia] Septr 1st 1796\n          I have been Informed this day Since I came to this Citty, that you have been receiving proposals for Some time past, for the Sale of Some Lands, which Lay on the Western Waters, which if\nyou have not Disposed of, I wish to know the Lowest price that will be taken for the first, Called round bottom, about fifteen miles below Wheeling also of the three Other tracts Which Lay Lower Down in the Ohio, an Ansr to this letter Sent to my Lodgings at Mr Thompson Sine of the Indian Queen fourth Street this Evening or tomorrow will be Immedy Attended to by Sir Your Most Obedient Humble Servant\n            Thos G. Johnston\n          The Conditions of Sale I have been Informed of.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0396", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Joseph Vanmeter, 1 September 1796\nFrom: Vanmeter, Joseph\nTo: Washington, George\n        1 Sept. 1796. Writing from Fort Pleasant (Van Meter\u2019s Fort) on the North Branch of the Potomac River, Vanmeter explains how he procured a sword presented to GW.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0397", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 1 September 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\n            Thursday Morning 1st Sep. [1796]\n        Enclosed is the name, and description of the Girl I mentioned to you last night. She has been the particular attendent on Mrs Washington since she was ten years old; and was handy & useful to her, being a perfect Mistress of her needle.\n        We have heard that she was seen in New York by some one who knew her, directly after she went off. And since by Miss Langden, in Portsmouth; who meeting her one day in the Street, &\nknowing her, was about to stop and speak to her, but she brushed quickly by, to avoid it.\n        By her being seen in New York (if the fact be so) it is not probable she went immediately to Portsmouth by Water from this City; but whether she travelled by land, or Water to the latter, it is certain the escape has been planned by some one who knew what he was about, & had the means to defray the expence of it & to entice her off; for not the least suspicion was entertained of her going, or having formed a connexion with any one who could induce her to such an Act.\n        Whether she is Stationary at Portsmouth, or was there en passant only, is uncertain; but as it is the last we have heard of her, I would thank you for writing to the Collector of that Port, & him for his endeavours to recover, & send her back: What will be the best method to effect it, is difficult for m\u27e8e\u27e9 to say. If enquiries are made openly, her Seducer (for she is simple and inoffensive herself) would take the alarm, & adopt instant measures (if he is not tired of her) to secrete or remove her. To sieze, and put her on board a Vessel bound immediately to this place, or to Alexandria which I should like better, seems at first view, to be the safest & least expensive. But if she is discovered, the Collector, I am persuaded, will pursue such measures as to him shall appear best, to effect those ends; and the cost shall be re-embursed & with thanks.\n        If positive proof is required, of the identity of the person, Miss Langden who must have seen her often in the Chamber of Miss Custis\u2014and I dare say Mrs Langden, on the occasional calls on the girl by Mrs Washington, when she has been here, would be able to do this.\n        I am sorry to give you, or any one else trouble on such a trifling occasion\u2014but the ingratitude of the girl, who was brought up & treated more like a child than a Servant (& Mrs Washington\u2019s desire to recover her) ought not to escape with impunity if it can be avoided. With great esteem & regard I am always Yours\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0398", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Henry Glen, 2 September 1796\nFrom: Glen, Henry\nTo: Washington, George\n          Schenectady [N.Y.] 2d Septr 1796.\n        Your letter of the 8th Ulto from Mount Vernon was handed to me last evening, on my return from Niagara\u2014It did not reach my Family \u2019till the 24th, and as I was then momently expected home, my son thought it most Safe to retain it till my arrival.\n        I now take the earliest opportunity of answering the several questions therein contained: permit me however previously to congratulate you on the peaceable delivery, by the British, of the Garrisons of Oswego and Niagara to the Commissioners of the United States, and on the display of our Colours at those places\u2014The behaviour of the British commandants at both Garrisons on our arrival was extremely polite and friendly, and during my stay at Niagara, which was a week, for the purpose of discharging the vessels, which I had chartered from the British; to carry our Troops, cannon &c. from Oswego to Niagara, I had the pleasure of witnessing the good understanding which prevails on both sides. The British Troops having crossed the river at Niagara, are waiting the arrival of vessels, to carry them to Kingston, from which place they are to embark in boats for Montreal. Govr Simcoe had sailed previous to the arrival of our Troops. The command of the Civil Government is left by the King\u2019s orders in the absence of Govr Simcoe to Peter Russel the oldest King\u2019s counsel, to collect in that quarter, by the title of Lieut. Govr of Upper Canada. The British Troops from Detroit had previous to my departure, gone on to Kingston, from which place they are to proceed to Quebec. I left Niagara on the 20th\nUlto. our Troops were in good spirits and much pleased with their situation. The Garrison is large and in good order.\n        In answer to the 1st question proposed in your letter, to wit how long it will take a person to go from New York to Albany by land, and how long by water; I beg leave to observe, that as we have a good deal of Southerly wind generally at this season, until about the 20th of this month passages by water are from two, to four days, & sometimes indeed vessels come up from New York in twenty four hours, this however, is not common; after the 20th generally from four, to eight days\u2014By land Stages, similar to those which run from New York to Philadelphia, ply between the former place and Albany\u2014there are two lines; the one runs thro\u2019 in forty eight hours, the other in seventy two.\n        2d\u2014A passage cannot at all times be had in packets, but always by land.\n        3d\u2014The distance from Albany to Fort Schuyler or Stanwix is 110 miles. agreeable to an admeasurement, which I had made during the late war, the distance from my house in Schenectady to Fort Schuyler, is 93 miles. A line of Stages runs thro\u2019 from Albany to Fort Schuyler, in three days. The upper part of the road, altho\u2019 better than when the President Saw it, in Augt \u201983, is still not very good. By water, with three good Batteaumen, in what is called a three handed boat, of about 800 lb. burthen, the passage, from this place to Fort Schuyler, is five days. The distance by water is at least 20 miles farther, than by land, as the President experienced, when I had the honor to come down with him from that place to Schenectady in \u201983.\n        4th\u2014Hands and Boats can always be had at Schenectady\u2014The most convenient ones are the three handed boats, which with the implements for working them costs 40 dolls. The wages of hands to Oswego 30 dolls. each, to Niagara 50 dolls. each\u2014the men finding themselves in provisions and liquor, and the employer paying the toll through the lock at the Little falls, and the carriage at Fort Schuyler\u2014Toll at the Lock, one dollar, for the Boat & load\u2014Carriage at Fort Schuyler one dollar for each load.\n        5th\u2014Stages and horses can always be had from Schenectady to Fort Schuyler.\n        6th\u2014Three men in a three handed boat, with about 800 lb. of baggage, can get to Oswego, from Fort Schuyler, in three days,\nwith ease, unless the wood creek, which is 24 miles in length, should be very low, and the wind against you on the Oneida lake, which is 26 miles in length.\n        7th\u2014The usual passage from Oswego to Niagara is from 4 days, if the lake is calm to 8 days\u2014high winds are very frequent. No dependence can be made on a vessel at Oswego, as those of the British are all employed by their own merchants and Government. There is no way by land, from Oswego to Niagara, the only road there is, strikes off eastward at a place called whitestown about ten miles below Fort Schuyler\u2014On this road there are settlements till within about 80 miles on this side of Niagara. The roads to the westward are in general rough, and in Spring and fall extremely bad. The distance from Schenectady, to Niagara, is better than 400 miles.\n        8th Batteaux, of the Size which I have before mentioned, are fit to perform the whole voyage, to Niagara, and can at all times be procured, with proper hands.\n        The rout from Schenectady to Niagara is generally, as follows, vizt.\n        1st Days journey, as far as a place called Fort hunter\u2014about 20 miles.\n        2d To Fort Plain or Canajoharie\u2014about 25 miles.\n        3d Through the lock at the little falls, & as far as Fort Herkemer, or perhaps a little above it\u201425 miles.\n        4th To old Fort Schuyler, or possibly a little above it\u201425 miles.\n        5th Over the Carrying place, at Fort Schuyler (or Stanwix) into wood creek.\n        6th Down wood creek, and a few miles on the Oneida Lake.\n        7th To the 3 river point.\n        8th To Oswego\u2014In the whole about two hundred and twenty miles. From Oswego to Niagara, the distance is One hundred and Sixty miles.\n        As boats in crossing the lake, always keep along shore the passage from Oswego to Niagara is generally from three and an half to four days\u2014There are however instances of boats lying by, for ten days, in consequence of the high winds, which generally begin in October; so that the passage, after that time is somewhat uncertain. The harbours, between those two places, one of which should always be made towards evening, [(]as it is dangerous to proceed on the lake in the night) are as follows,\n        1st Little Sodus, 14 miles from Oswego.\n        2d Big Sodus, 14 miles farther.\n        3d Yerondequet\u201436 miles farther, and 4 miles from the Genesee river; all which are Safe harbours.\n        4th At a place called Braddocks bay.\n        5th At the oak orchard.\n        6th At the 18 mile Creek.\n        7th At the 12 mile Creek.\n        8th At Johnsons Landing. In all one hundred and Sixty miles from Oswego.\n        I would observe further that provisions, tents &c. &c., would be indispensably necessary, in performing the Tour. I am Sir with Sentiments of regard and esteem Your most obedt hume servt\n          Henry Glen", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0399", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 2 September 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n        (Private)\n          Philadelphia Septr 2. 1796.\n        The day before yesterday, Mr McHenry put into my hands a printed Talk of the President of the United States to the Cherokee Nation. I had not an opportunity of examining it till to-day. You will permit me, sir, to say, that it appears to me in many parts exceptionable. As it was handed to me not for advice, but merely for information of a thing done, I think it most proper to communicate my ideas directly to you. The alterations & omissions which appear to me expedient, are marked on the printed Talk itself, which I inclose. Mr McHenry has aimed at a familiarity of style as the most likely to make an impression on Indian minds: but there are bounds in all things which mark the extent of propriety and decorum. The dignity of the President of the United States is not to be sacrificed for any consideration: nor is it necessary to expose it to the least diminution to attain the object in view. The Talk may be in such plain language as to be perfectly intelligible to the interpreters who are to translate it, and yet not expose it to the Animadversion of well informed men. This Talk being printed, will soon get into the news-papers, and be read by other nations as well as our own. Pardon me if I think it open to much censure. It is expressed to be among the last acts of your administration, and ought to command respect from the civilized world. I cannot but express my fears that in its present form the reverse would be its fate. It abounds in tautologies and other faults, arising, I suppose, from a mistaken idea of the manner in which the untutored Indians should be addressed. But their own Chiefs speak in a manner incomparably more dignified. It would mortify me to see it, in its present form,\nexhibited to the world. I am strangely mistaken in my conceptions of it, if all your friends would not be extremely mortified. The alterations I have taken the liberty to note, are not all which a more attentive examination might suggest.\n        I have marked this letter private, because intended only for your eye. Both the letter and the notes on the talk are most respectfully submitted to your consideration.\n          T. Pickering.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0400", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 2 September 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n          I thank you for your private letter of this date, & will arrest the talk intended for the Cherokee Indns until it can be further considered. For this purpose I send the one I have just received from you, back again; with a request that you would pursue the remarks you have begun; and let me have them as soon as you can, conveniently, in the morning; that I may be possessed of them before I see the Secretary of War. Yours sincerely, & always\n            Go: Washington\n          I did not admire the draught when it was presented to me & told the Secretary so; but I am so pressed, & allowed so little time to consider matters that my signature, or approbation is, I am persuaded given, sometimes, rather too hastily.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0401", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 2 September 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State Septr 2d 1796.\n        The Secretary of State respectfully lays before the President of the United States, the draught of a letter to lieutenant governor Wood of Virginia, concerning the ship Eliza, Captain Hussey, captured by the Thetis British frigate, and carried into Hampton-road. It was intended to send the letter by this day\u2019s post: but the absence of the Clerk who had locked up the inclosed papers, prevented a timely submission of the whole to the President.\n        It appears to be an established rule in the British Courts, that a capture, without a sentence of condemnation, in due form of law, does not change the property so as to entitle a purchaser to hold the captured vessel against the original owner, or a recapture.\n          T. Pickering.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0402", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 4 September 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n        I have received your two late letters, the last but one transmitting me a certain draft. It will be corrected & altered with attention to your suggestions & returned by Monday\u2019s or Tuesday\u2019s post\u2014The idea of the university is one of those which I think will be most properly reserved for your speech at the opening of the session. A general suggestion respecting education will very fitly come into the address\u2014With respectful & affect. attach: I have the honor to remain Sir Yr very obedt Serv.\n          A. Hamilton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0403", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 4 September 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n        Letter not found: from William Pearce, 4 Sept. 1796. GW wrote Pearce on 11 Sept.: \u201cYour letter of the 4th instt came to my hands yesterday.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0406", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 5 September 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n          Mr Pearce\n          Philadelphia 5th Septr 1796\n        Your letter of the 31st of Augt from Chester Town, came duly to hand; but as you did not acknowledge the receipt of the one I wrote you from hence, this day week, I presume it had not got to hand; Owing, I conceive to a misapprehension of mine as to the time of closing the Mail for the Eastern shore which I find is an hour and an half earlier than those which go Southerly or Easterly. I put my letter under cover to the Postmaster in Chester Town with a request to forward it to Mount Vernon if you should have left that place.\n        As you appear (by your letter abovementioned) to have attended to most of the matters which were recommended in mine, your not receiving it at Chester Town was not very material.\n        By my letters from Mount Vernon I find the weather up to the date of them has continued extremely wet\u2014of course Seeding must have gone on slowly, if not badly.\n        Washington Custis writes me that Mr Stuart, at the River farm was very ill of a fever, on thursday last. I hope it will not prove a fatal one, & thereby add to your present difficulties in providing good Overseers. If Scoon is a first rate Overseer, I had rather give him \u00a375 Maryland curr[enc]y than run the risk of getting an indifferent one; especially if he can bring another whom you know to be a good one, along with him; although the wages of that other should exceed 133\u2153 dollars. I do not know what Violet\u2019s & Cash\u2019s present wages are, I did not care to increase it with them (although they may be industrious men) as they cd have no plea to ask higher wages for the year to come, than for the year past. Men who are old, experienced, and of established reputation & skill, have better ground to stand upon, than they.\n        Washington in his letter mentioned further that the weavil was very much in Stuarts Wheat. If this is really the case, it is much to be regretted, but there is no other remedy but to get it out as quick as possible; and as he has no place to keep it securely in the Chaff, to grind it up with all the dispatch the Mill is capable. He said something also about one of the Bolting cloths being out of order, or unfit for use\u2014this will require attention.\n        Write me by the first Post (fridays) after you get this letter, how every thing is, and going on; for if I can accomplish the business which \u27e8brot\u27e9 me here, I hope by Wednesday, or thursda\u27e8y\u27e9 in next week, to leave this, on my return to Mount Vernon. I wish you well & am Your friend\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0408", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 5 September 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n          Treasury Department [Philadelphia]September 5th 1796\n        The Secretary of the Treasury has the honor most respectfully to report to the President of the United States.\n        That by an Act of Congress passed on the sixth day of May 1796, the President of the United States is authorised to cause other Revenue Cutters to be built or purchased in lieu of such as are or shall from time to time become unfit for further service and to cause such Revenue Cutters as shall so become unfit for service to be sold at public Auction.\n        The Secretary as soon after the passing of said Act as his other engagements would permit, caused reports to be made to him of the state of the Revenue Cutters, and he now submits the\nresult of the information which has been obtained, so far as any immediate Act of the President appears to be necessary thereon.\n        1st The Cutter on the Pennsylvania station was sold in December last by direction of the Secretary, she being found utterly unfit for service and in a state which rendered an expensive repair necessary to prevent an absolute loss to the Public\u2014of this transaction a report was made to Congress, who have tacitly approved thereof; it is therefor now necessary to take measures for building a new Cutter and by the communications herewith transmitted from Sharp Delany it appears that one in every way adequate may be obtained for four thousand and seventy four Dollars.\n        2d The letter from Robert Purviance dated August 13th herewith transmitted, States, that a repair will be necessary upon the Maryland Cutter, which will cost about five hundred and fifty Dollars\u2014but as the Vessel is not well adapted for the Revenue Service, it appears expedient to direct a Sale and to purchase a smaller Vessel which will draw less Water and be navigated at a less expence.\n        3d The Cutter on the Virginia station is a heavy Sailor, her hull is decayed and her rigging worn out\u2014as appears from the communications from William Lindsay, Capt. Francis Bright and others. the purchase of a new Vessel is decidedly recommended.\n        4th The Cutter on the South Carolina station is represented as originally too small and as being now utterly unfit for service. The Collector Isaac Holmes Esqr. and the Capt. Robert Cochran both concur in recommending the purchase of a new Vessel.\n        The Secretary has not received definitive information respecting the State of the Cutters on the New York North Carolina and Georgia stations; in respect to the others not before mentioned, no immediate measures by the President appear to be necessary.\n        The Secretary deems it proper to state that the present derangement of the Cutter system appears to have arisen in the first instance from the inadequacy of the fund originally allotted for the purchase of Vessels, which rendered it impossible to commence the establishment on a proper scale, and latterly to the incompetency of the compensation which prevented the inlistment of skilful and industrious mariners; this last evil is now obviated by an authority to allow adequate wages.\n        The Secretary in consequence of the premises, respectfully\nrequests the Presidents permission to procure by Contract or otherwise suitable Vessels to be employed as Cutters on the Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia and South Carolina Stations, and to sell those on the said Stations, now belonging to the United States at public Auction upon condition that the proceeds of such Sales shall be paid into the Treasury of the United States. All which is most respectfully submitted by\n          Oliv. WolcottSecy of the Treasury", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0409", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 6 September 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n          Philadelphia 6th Septr 1796.\n        I received yesterday, your letter of the 4th instant. If the promised paper has not been sent before this reaches you, Mr Kitt the\nbearer of it, who goes to New York partly on mine, and partly on his own business, will bring it safely. I only await here, now, and shall in a few days do it impatiently, for the arrival of General Pinckney.\n        If you think the idea of a University had better be reserved for the Speech at the opening of the Session, I am content to defer the communication of it until that period. But even in that case, I would pray you (as soon as convenient) to make a draught for the occasion; predicated on the ideas with which you have been furnished\u2014looking at the sametime into what was said on this head in my second Speech to the first Congress\u2014merely with a view to see what was said on the subject at that time\u2014and this you will perceive was not so much to the point as I want to express now\u2014though it may, if proper, be glanced at, to shew that the subject had caught my attention early.\n        But to be candid, I much question whether a recommendation of this measure to the Legislature will have a better effect now than formerly. It may shew indeed my sense of its importance, and that is a sufficient inducement with me to bring the matter before the public in some shape or another, at the closing Scenes of my political exit. My object for proposing to insirt it where I did (if not improper) was to set the People to ruminating on the importance of the measure as the most likely means of bringing it to pass. With much truth I am Your Affectionate\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0410", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 6 September 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n          Treasury Department September the 6th 1796.\n        The Secretary of the Treasury respectfully transmits to the President of the United States, a letter from the Commissioner of the Revenue dated the 11th of August last, covering one to him from the Collector of Washington, on the subject of sundry Contracts made by the said Collector for placing and keeping up the Stakes under his superintendence and shifting and clearing the Buoys at the South West Straddle for the year 1797.\n        It is the opinion of the Secretary that it is adviseable to authorise Contracts on the terms proposed. All which is respectfully Submitted\n          Oliv: WolcottSecy of the Treasury", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0412", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 7 September 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: McHenry, James\n        Private\n            Wednesday morning [7 Sept. 1796]\n        The principles of the Enclosed Instructions I approve; and since they are drawn, I shall not object to the Phraseology; tho\u2019 considering that it is Addressed to our agent, for his government part of them, I think is too much in the stile of a talk to the Indians. And I think too, as he is intended for the general Superintendent his attentions seems to be too much confined to the Creek Nation. Yours always\u2014& sincerely\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0413", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Carey, 8 September 1796\nFrom: Carey, John\nTo: Washington, George\n        when you consider the serious nature of the business, on which I have the honor to address you, I trust your good sense will induce you to overlook & excuse any impropriety or indelicacy which there may be in my writing to you on the subject. A few days since, I, for the first time, saw a book entitled \u201cEpistles Domestic, &c. from General Washington.\u201d As you also have probably seen it, I need not describe its contents. On reading it, I felt, what every honest man must feel, indignation & contempt for the anonymous editor. Happening luckily to be acquainted with some of the gentlemen who write for the Critical Review, I requested an indulgence which I scorned to ask last year when my own interests were concerned (i.e. on the publication of the two vols. of your \u201cOfficial Letters\u201d)\u2014I requested & obtained permission to write a critique of the volume in question. I have the honor of inclosing it\u2014for your own private inspection only, until it appear in print, which will be on the first of October with perhaps some alterations or amendments, if any occur in the interim between this first half execution of my thoughts, & my seeing the proof sheet. As soon as published, I shall do myself the honor of transmitting a printed copy of the Review that contains it.\n        I regret extremely that I cannot (without openly avowing myself the author) point out to the public the prodigious incorrectness of Mr Duch\u00e9\u2019s letter. Having compared it with a correct copy which I have taken from the files, I find no less than one hundred and forty deviations from the genuine text; in which number I do not at all count orthography or punctuation.\n        Permit me, Sir, to add, that I am much at a loss to know whether I ought openly to take any notice of this affair in case I should publish a continuation of your \u201cOfficial Letters\u201d; which I wish to do as soon as I can make it convenient. Perhaps some means may be found to guide my feeble & fallible judgment. I wish to act for the best: & if I err, the uprightness of my intention will, I trust, excuse me. I take it for granted that Mr Randolph has informed Your excellency of my intention respecting the whole letters, & passages of letters which I have omitted in my former publication\u2014which is (as I informed him in 2 letters written in November last) not to publish them during your excellency\u2019s lifetime, not even afterwards if deemed unadvisable by persons on whose judgment & integrity I can rely.\n        I shall shortly take the liberty of waiting on Mr King, who may perhaps be able to furnish me with some useful advice\u2014though I do not mean to inform him of my being the writer of the critique.\n        I hope sir, you will excuse this incorrect & hasty scrawl\u2014The vessel by which I mean to send it, is already down at Gravesend, & the captain just going\u2014The same apology will serve for the critique. I have the honor to be, with very sincere respect, & warm wishes for your Excellency\u2019s welfare & that of the U.S., Sir, your most obedt humble servant,\n          John Carey.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0414", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Carey, 9 September 1796 [letter not found]\nFrom: Carey, John\nTo: Washington, George\n        Letter not found: from John Carey, 9 Sept. 1796. GW wrote Carey on 30 Dec.: \u201cI have received your letters of the 8th and 9th of September\u201d (DLC:GW).", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0415", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 9 September 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State Septr 9. 1796.\n        In draughting the letter of credence for Mr Pinckney, the motives for his appointment, arising out of the present state of things between the U. States & France, pressed me to depart from the usual formalities of this diplomatic instrument: it is therefore respectfully submitted to your consideration, for any alterations you may deem proper previous to its being transcribed. I also submit the draught of a letter to Mr Monroe, and of his letter of recall. With the highest respect I am, sir, your obt servt\n          T. Pickering.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0416", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Samuel Benjamin Morse, 10 September 1796\nFrom: Morse, Samuel Benjamin\nTo: Washington, George\n          Billerica (Massachusetts)Septr 10, 1796.\n          Most excellent Sir,\n        As you are the universal friend of mankind, and to numerous individuals in particular have manifested your bounty and generosity in divers ways and manners, I take the liberty relying on the great and noble disposition of your mind for an assurance of not giving offence, to request the favor of your smiles of beneficence in some way which it may be in your power or pleasure to grant. For to whom can I look with more propriety for assistance, than to the great and good Father of his country; whose wish is, that\nal\u27e8l\u27e9 may be assisted, as far as the extensive sphere of his influence and ability can effect it.\n        The favor I have to request, Sir, is the privelege of being employed as a Clerk in the Secretary of State\u2019s Office; or in some other Office of profit and advantage of the like kind. As to my character, Sir, I believe I can obtain sufficient recommendation from General Lincoln; with whom indeed I cannot claim the honor of much personal acquaintance; but I am well known to, and acquainted with the Clergyman of the Parish, who can claim the honor of intimate friendship with the General. I further give you the trouble, great and good Sir, first to inform you that I have been regularly educated at Harvard University, and have received the honor of two degrees there. From the Government of the College I can produce the most honorable testimonials of my character and scholarship.\n        If, Sir, it should at any time be consistent with your power and will, to bestow on me the Office above mentioned, or any other Clerkship, your granting me that favor would heighten, if possible, the love and admiration with which myself and millions of others are already filled at your unrivalled Greatness and Goodness. I am, Illustrious Sir, With the Profoundest Esteem and Respect Your devoted Servant\n          Saml B. Morse", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0417", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 10 September 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State Sept. 10. 1796.\n        The Secretary of State respectfully submits to the President of the U. States a letter intended for Mr King, the occasion of which is exhibited in the accompanying letter from the deputy collector of Norfolk.\n          T. Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0419", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Sinclair, 10 September 1796\nFrom: Sinclair, John\nTo: Washington, George\n          Whitehall [London] Sepr 10th 1796.\n        I had yesterday the pleasure of receiving your\u2019s of the 12th of June, which Mr King had the goodness to take Charge of, & which he delayed delivering until my return from Scotland. The information which it contains regarding the Use of Gypsum, seems to be extremely important, and throws much Light upon a very curious & interesting branch of Husbandry. The difficulties you have found in collecting additional information respecting manures, convince me more and more, that the Farmers of\nAmerica want some Spur to acquire agricultural information, as well as a Spirit to communicate to others, what they have already acquired: In short, that they should read, speak, and write more, upon that Subject, than they are accustomed to at present. It is not yet Six Years since I began the Statistical & Agricultural Surveys, at which period, there were very few in the Island thought capable of giving a proper account either of a County or even a Parish, & now there are above a thousand, who have been so trained and educated to those investigations, that they are equal to any task of the sort. But that is in Consequence of a great deal of practice, & of those subjects having been so frequently discussed. For the common conversation of male Society, there are but three General Topics, namely Politics, Subjects of an amorous nature, & farming. Sir Robert Walpole, who was shy of speaking Politics, and knew nothing of farming, used to say that bawdy, to make use of his own vulgar expression, was the only conversation for a general company. But I happened to dine the other Day at Mr Secretary Dundas\u2019s, where Mr Pitt was, and I was glad to find that our present Minister agreed with me in thinking that farming was a much better one.\n        I am wandering however, from the Point to which I wish to call your Excellency\u2019s attention. The People of this Country, as well as of America, learn with infinite regret, that you propose resigning your situation as President of the United States. I shall not enter into the Discussion of a Subject, of which I am so incompetent to judge; but if it is so, I hope that you will recommend some Agricultural Establishment, on a great Scale, before you quit the Reins of Government. By that, I mean, A Board of Agriculture, or some such Establishment at Philadelphia, with Societies of Agriculture in the Capital of each State to correspond with it. Such an Establishment would soon enable the farmers of America to acquire Agricultural Knowledge, and what is of equal importance, the ability of communicating what they have learnt, to their Countrymen.\n        I scarcely think that any Government can be properly constituted, without such an Establishment. As mere individuals, 4 things are necessary; 1. food. 2. Clothing. 3. Shelter. 4. Mental Improvement. As Members of a large Community, 4 other points seem to be essential, namely, 1. Property. 2. Marriage. 3. Laws for our Direction in this world, and 4. Religion to prepare us for\nanother. But the foundation of the whole is food, and that Country must be the happiest, where that sine qua non can be most easily obtained. The first means of securing abundance of food, however, is by ascertaining the best mode of raising it, & rouzing a Spirit of industry for that purpose, for both of which, the countenance, & Protection of the Government of a Country, through the Medium of some Public Establishment, are absolutely essential. The trifling expence for which such an Institution might be kept up, is another argument in its favor.\n        I am induced more particularly to dwell upon this Circumstance, as it might be in my power on various occasions to give useful hints to America, were I satisfied that they would be duly weighed, &, if approved of, acted upon. For instance you will herewith receive some Egyptian Wheat, which produces at the rate of 180 Bushels per English Acre. Indeed without such a Grain, so narrow a Country as Egypt could never have fed such Multitudes of People. I have no Doubt of its thriving in America equally well. It occurred to me also the other Day, that in the Southern States, both the Tea Plant, & the New Zealand kind of hemp might be raised in great perfection, and we could send over both these plants from this Country. Indeed I propose giving some of them in charge to Mr Pinckney. But to introduce any new article of produce, the countenance, & in some Cases, the assistance of the Government of a State is necessary. When once however the Practicability of cultivating any article is ascertained, unless it can stand upon its own bottom, it cannot be of any real advantage to a Nation.\n        But I have already tired your Excellency with too long a Dissertation, which I am persuaded you will attribute to its real Cause, enthusiasm in favor of Agriculture, and respect for so valuable a friend to it, as General Washington. For other Particulars, I must refer to our intelligent friend Dr Edwards, to whose charge I take the Liberty of delivering a parcel, with some papers we have lately printed, and a Sandwich Box with the Egyptian Wheat, and some Straw Rings, of which I request your acceptance. Is there no chance of seeing General Washington in England? I should be proud of his accepting an apartment in this House, and I am sure that he would meet with the most flattering Reception in every part of the Island, but from none with more real\nattachment & regard, than from Your Excellency\u2019s Faithful & Obedient Servant\n          John Sinclair\n          N.B. Excuse my taking the liberty of using a borrowed hand. Dr Edwards will inform you, that I have of late been much troubled with an inflammation in my eyes, which I trust will be a sufficient apology. It will give me much pleasure to be of any use to Mr King, Mr Gore, or Mr Pinckney, during their residence in this Country. Indeed I have always felt a strong Desire of shewing every attention in my power to any American Gentleman who may have visited this Country; for though our Governments are now distinct, the People are in fact the same, without any possible inducement to quarrel, if they knew their respective interests, and with every reason to wish each other well, and to promote their mutual Prosperity.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0420", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James Anderson, 11 September 1796\nFrom: Anderson, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          Salvington [Va.] 11 Septr 1796\n        I have the Honor of receiving Your favors of 5th Yesterday And am sorry You think me not so explicit as I should have been, I will say my intention in it is remote from deceit, that sort of conduct I think myself a stranger to. And the respectability of Your Character has a different claim from all who know it.\n        I now beg leave more fully to explain myself And give an Account of my manner of life My Father was a Farmer in Scotland\non the River Forth nearly 40 miles above Edinh And at the Age of 21 thinking the business more fully understood upon the English border I agreed with a Gentleman, Famous in Farming, Feeding Horned Cattle & Sheep, in Summer on Grass, and in Winter on Potatoes, Turnip & Hay, Had a good Dairy, properly managed. with Him I was an apprentice 2 Years at the expiry of which I took the management of a large Estate possest by His uncle an Old Gentn which I conducted for 3 Years. And I beleive with approbation. For 19 Years after I farmed on my own account, 18 of which I was also largely in the Grain line, And had several manufactering Mills, But by the failure of a Sett of Distillers in 1788 I nearly lost all, And many more were ruined.\n        In begining of 1791 I came to this Country. and during a few weeks stay in Alex[and]ria was once on Your Estate at Mount Vernon in Company with Messrs Prescott & Hannah, this was in Feby 1791 when You was in Philadelphia I then formed some Opinion of Your business, and was led to think from the regularity You might require in keeping Your Books, much time would be spent in that way, And of course prevent that strict Attention, Absolutely necessary, to all the parts of the Estate, and the Stock thereon, this induced me to make the former remark, this You have fully explained\u2014In the spring 1791 I rented a Farm of poor Land on the upper part of Fairfax County in which I did not find my expectations Answered\u2014In the begining of 1793 I took the Management of Mr Prescotts Estate in Prince William 1100 Acres Land on which there was 14 or 15 Slaves employed\u2014The narrowness of that Gentlemans circumstances, prevented the neccessary improvements being made, And induced me to relinquish the business\u2014In 1795 I came here, the Estate is 1700 Acres of Land, one part on the Creek fine meadow, the other part Hilly & poor, last Year I had no Assistant. this I have one. We employ about 25 hands, We have a Distillery which I also Conduct. And turns to good Account, my Incomes besides Board &c. are upward this Year of \u00a3100 I take some share in this Distillery\u2014And beg leave to Observe that I do think one properly conducted is one of the best means for the improving of a Farm, As by feeding, so much manure is procured which otherwise could not be obtained. And if properly compounded & applyed will not fail in Answering the Farmers expectations.\n        I beg leave here to appeal to Your knowledge, & experience,\nthat tho, dividing the Soil by proper ploughings & Harrowings, laying down & Following proper Schemes for the Rotation of Crops, Intermixing pasture therein will do much. Yet without the assistance of manure will never Fully improve the Land.\n        I should have added in the Accot of myself that I still have a small Farm in Loudon, But if You are pleased to employ me I will give up\u2014I now have no Fortune, but cannot say I am poor And I am contented. And my present situation is agreable. My employer a Young unmarried man, Mr Cary Selden, His Mother a Lady advanced in life and sister of John F. Mercer of Marborough, with whom I suppose You are accquainted\u2014And I am I think in good Company. But permit me to say I would prefer Your employ to any I know of, provided I could render it profitable to You\u2014& worth my while. And if this reciprocity of Interests are not Answered I would never wish to be employed.\n        I shall be very ready to wait on You whenever You do incline. And have ventured this to Philadelphia not doubting of its arrival in time And with much respect I have the Honor to be Sir Your most Obedt Humble servt\n          Jas Anderson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0421", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 11 September 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n          Mr Pearce,\n          Philadelphia 11th Sep. 1796\n        Your letter of the 4th instt came to my hands yesterday, and the one you wrote me from Chester Town has also been received. My last would have informed you of the reason, which, probably, prevented your receiving a former one at that place, but which I expect has got to hand \u2019ere this; as the Postmaster was requested, in case you had left it to send it by the Mail to Alexandria.\n        As your letter says very little with respect to the Situation of matters on the Farms, I have the less to say in answer to it. But wish that the Wheat may be sown as soon as possible; but not faster than the ground can be put in good Order for its reception; especially for that which was sent by Mr Lewis.\n        Having made no mention of Stuart, I hope he has got well again; from the Tenor of Washington\u2019s letter, I began to apprehend he was in danger. As you have said nothing concerning the Fly, in your stacks, I hope his account in this respect also was more the effect of his fears than of accurate examination; but let it be closely attended to; for neither interest nor policy will Suffer a Crop made, to be lost, in order to prepare for another which a thousand accidents may destroy before it gets into the Barn: and when, possibly, and even probably, the price may be lower than it is at present by 50 pr Ct. This, supposing no danger from the fly, is a strong reason for grinding up & selling the flour before the Market is glutted with this article, from Wheat of this years growth.\n        Do not let the proper Season escape you, for sowing the Winter Vetch\u2014I should conceive it ought not to be much longer delayed. But among the Books you have, of mine, it is probable the precise time, & quantity of Seed to the Acre, may be mentioned. Let these be attended to; and unless the directions are given in some authors of modern date, be more sparing of your seed than is mentioned by them. I recollect a year or two ago to have sent some rape Seed to Mount Vernon, but do not recollect what has been the result of it: but particular care ought always to be paid to these kind of Seeds, as they are, generally, given to me, because they are valuable\u2014rare\u2014or curious.\n        I hope you have received favorable answers from the persons you were in treaty with on the Eastern Shore. It is very interesting\nto me, at all times, to have good Overseers; but may be particular so next year. Did you receive any benefit from Doctr Perkins\u2019s Metallic application. which, possibly ought to be repeated & continued for sometime. I wish you well & am Your friend\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0423", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Robert Fulton, 12 September 1796\nFrom: Fulton, Robert\nTo: Washington, George\n          London September 12th 1796\n        By my Friend Dr Edwards I beg leave to present you with this publication; which I hope will be honoured with your Perusal at a Leisure hour; The object of which is to Exhibit the Certain mode of Giving Agriculture to every Acre of the immense Continent of America; By means of A Creative System of Canals.\n        When this Subject first entered my thoughts, I had no Idea of its Consequence: But the scene Gradually opened and at Length exhibited the most extensive and pleasing prospect of Improvements; hence, I now Consider it of much national Importan[c]e; And View it Like the application of those particuler principles which produce certain effects.\n        Thus the discovery of the Mariners Compass Gave Commerce to the World.\n        The Invention of printing is dissipating darkness and giving a Polish to the Mass of Men.\n        And the Introduction of the Creative System of Canals as certain in their Effects: will Give an Agricultural Polish To every Acre of America.\n        I Therefore Beg Leave to Submit to your Contemplation the Last Chapter with the Supplement; which exhibits the Specific System for America: And hoping that your Excellencies Sanction will awaken the Public attention to the Subject: I Remain with all possible Respect your Excellencies most Obedient And Very humble Servant\u2014\n          Robert Fulton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0425", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Augustine Washington, 12 September 1796\nFrom: Washington, William Augustine\nTo: Washington, George\n          My Dr Unkle\n        Wishing to make a remittance to Judge Phillips, for the use of my Sons, I dispatched my Steward with the inclosed Letters to Fredericksbg with 150 Dollars Alexandria Bank Notes, desiring him to exchange them for Bank Notes of the United States, which he was not able to accomplish in the Towns of Port Royal, Fredericksbg, Falmouth or Dumfries, he brought back my Letter & Money\u2014As you were so obliging as to say you would make Remittances for me, \u201cthe means being put into your hands\u201d; I have taken the Liberty of Inclosing you, with the inclosed Letters, 150 Dollars Notes of the Bank of Alexandria, and shall esteem it a particular favr if you will exchange them for United States, or a Bill on Boston, and remit it with the inclosed Letter to Judge Phillips\u2014I have in my Letter to Judge Phillips taken the Liberty of mentioning that the remittance would now be made thro\u2019 you, mentioning at the same time my disappointment\u2014I do\nnot know whether he is in advance or not for me, having made a remittance of 200 Dollars this Spring\u2014& when I left Boston I had paid up in advance for their schooling & Board, & left some Money with Judge Phillips for their necessary supplys, but I would allways wish to keap Money in his hands, so that he should never be in advance for me.\n        Our relation Mrs Mildred Lee, is no more, I have just recd a Letter from Mr Corbin Washington informing me that she expired the 8th Inst.\n        It give me much pleasure to hear that you & Mrs Washington enjoy good health, which may you long continue to do is the fervent prayer of My Dr sir Your Affectionate Nephew\n          Wm Augt. Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0427", "content": "Title: To George Washington from \u201cA Friend to the People,\u201d 13 September 1796\nFrom: \nTo: \n          Baltimore Septr 13th 1796\n        Have we not a right as a nation, to demand the Marquis La\u2019 Fayette as a Citizen of our Country. The People love him\u2014we all love him\u2014and our God knows his goodness and virtue.\n          A Friend to the People", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0428", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Searson, 13 September 1796\nFrom: Searson, John\nTo: Washington, George\n        The misfortunes of an honest man Struggling with dire distress, has in all ages been look\u2019d upon, by Compassionate and Benevolent minds with noted Commisseration, Scenes of a truly afflictive nature (tho\u2019 Innocent of the Cause of them) has fallen to my Lot, notwithstanding my formerly being a Reputable Wholesale merchant in this City. from such vicissitude in Human affairs, Have made application to the Humane for Relief, And Since my late arrival in this City, your Excellency was pointed out to me by Some friends as most Suitable, from your Excellency\u2019s Humane and Charitable Character\u2014I was lately Informed there was a vacancy for the place of Clerk at the War office\u2014Two of my friends viz. Blair McClenaghan & John Taylor Esqr. accompanied me to Willm Symmonds Esqr. first or disposing Clerk in that office, But alas! Could not Succeed. Nothing therefore offering, that I can yet see for a Support, beg leave to throw my Self at the feet of your Excellency\u2019s Humanity for such Relief as to your Humane Breast may Seem meet. Should my application meet notice, I Lodge at No. 22 Carter\u2019s alley near 2nd Street\u2014I have the Honor to be, (may it please your Excellency) with the most profound Regard, Humility and Respect, and with Prayer to Heaven for long Life prosperity and every Earthly Bliss\u2014Your Excellency\u2019s Most Devoted and Humble Servant\n          Jno. Searson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0429", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Thornton, 13 September 1796\nFrom: Thornton, William\nTo: Washington, George\n        Washington, D.C., 13 September 1796. Thornton supported GW\u2019s desire to construct and fund a national university in the Federal City. He discussed practical challenges related to such an institution and its best location.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0430", "content": "Title: From George Washington to the Cabinet, 14 September 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Cabinet\n          Philadelphia 14th Sept. 1796\n        As I cannot, without peculiar inconvenience to my private concerns, remain in this City beyond sunday next, I desire that all the business in your department which calls for my immediate attention, may be presented to me in the course of this week.\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0431", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 14 September 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n          If you have a few minutes to spare I could wish you to examine the within conditions for a new contract for cannon. The old contract was too defective to serve as a model or guide in any one respect. The public must be a considerable looser by it; and the cannon which we shall be obliged to recive by no means to be relied on. With the greatest respect I have the honour to be Sir your most ob. st\n            James McHenry\n          The mail to Pittsburg is altered. Letters must be in the office on friday before sun down.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0432", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 14 September 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n            Department of State Sept. 14. 1796.\n          I submit to your consideration the inclosed draught of instructions for Messrs Ellicott & Freeman, for running the boundary line between the U. States and the Spanish colonies of East & West Florida; and am, most repectfully, your obedt servant\n            T. Pickering\n          I have just heard that Capt. German is arrived, & consequently Mr Pinckney, from Charleston.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0433", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Robert Brooke, 15 September 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Brooke, Robert\n          Philadelphia 15th Sept: 1796\n        The Commonwealth of Virginia, having manifested their approbation of my design, to apply the hundred shares in the James River Company, which they had before put at my disposal, to the use of a Siminary to be erected in such part of the State as they should deem most proper; and in consequence of this reference to their opinion, the Legislature having requested me to appropriate them to a Siminary at such place in the upper\nCountry as I should think most convenient to a majority of its Inhabitants: After careful enquiries, to ascertain that place, I have, upon the fullest consideration of all circumstances, destined those Shares to the use of Liberty-Hall Academy, in Rockbridge County.\n        It would seem to me proper that this determination should be promulgated by some official act of the Executive of Virginia; and the Legislature may expect it; for the purpose of general information. With due consideration & respect I am\u2014Sir Your Most Obedt Hble Servt\n          Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0435", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 15 September 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n            Thursday Evening [15 September 1796]\n        The paper you put into my hands to-day was attentively perused by us all. I am now going over it by myself, but it will not be possible to get thro\u2019 in time to return it before bed-time. Before breakfast in the morning I will wait upon you with it. I am most respectfully your obt servt\n          T. Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0437", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Joseph Barnes, 17 September 1796\nFrom: Barnes, Joseph\nTo: Washington, George\n        General Washington\u2014I address you thus because to this name are annexed the greatest possible Virtues. When I reflect, that you were the first and great Patron of my deceased friend Mr Rumsey, my feelings revolt at the Idea, nor could any thing other than the peculiar circumstances under which I have been excuse,\nmy not having Since in England written to you on the Subject of his objects: A history of which will apologize for my long Silence this I mean to prepare.\n        At present I can only give you a general Idea\u2014When the arbitrators appointed by the proprietors of Mr Rumseys Patents to Settle all matter between me, being the Legal representative of Mr Rumsey, And Rogers & Parker made their Award in March 1795\u2014by which the payment of \u00a32500 which R. & P. had Acknowledged due on one of Rumsey\u2019s Machines having performed, as they conceived, as pr agreement, & which of course I expected was Suspended, neither they nor I had the means or money to advance to prosecute the Rumseian objects; of consequence they have necessarily Since remained Stationary.\n        However having, from a course of experiments, made for the purpose, Satisfied ourselves, that if proper means be used the most important of Sd objects will Succeed, particularly the Steam Navigation, which was Mr Rumsey\u2019s hobby horse\u2014we agreed, as Soon as money requisite could be raised to recommence the prosecution & determine the fate or demonstrate the Utility of the objects in question, by practical experiment: Indeed, I Shall never rest Satisfied till this is done. Parker has Since made a Large fortune in France, where he yet is, on his return I mean to consult him on this business.\n        Being thus necessarily detained & not wishing to Lose time, a Gentln, who came over with me, and myself purchased about 140000 Acres of Land, Situated in the States of Kentuckey & Virginia, at 1/3 Stirg pr Acre; 100000 Acres of which we contracted with a person to Settle on perpetual Lease at 1/ Stirg pr Acre, pr Annum, to commence the third year after the respective residence of the People, Who are chiefly on the Same: the remaining 40000 Acres we allotted to Sell to defray the necessary expences, part of which is Sold at 6/ pr Acre, & I have no doubt but the remainder will Sell for more.\n        To facilitate the Sale of these Lands, & others, by exchange for goods and the Last for cash, I have Long Since opened a commercial house in this City; 36 Queen St. cheapsides.\n        A friend of mine, General, Mr Nicholson having made application in favor of me to Succeed Mr Johnson as Consul, and as the obtainment of this object would So establish my respectability as to enable me to effect all my objects here, and knowing that General Washington ever wishes to distinguish, or prefer a man\nonly from merit, & that his merit is in proportion to the Service he has rendered to Society, I conceive it proper to observe, that when you consider general, that I have Spent ten years upward & many thousand pounds in the constant pursuit of Philosophical & Mechanical Enquiries & experiments the objects of which is Public Utility; And that Some years more must necessarily be devoted to effect the objects of Sd pursuit, I flatter myself General you will give the application of my friends due consideration, & that these circumstances will tend to preponderate the Scale in my favor, for the office in question, or any other which you may conceive I merit, or am qualified for. I can have any recommendation from Robt Barclay, Wm Vaughan Esqre & others of this city. With grateful esteem I remain General Washington yours most respectfully\n          Jos. Barnes\n          P.S. I have not yet Published my Manuscript Book on Hydraulics, Hydrostatics & Mechanics, which contains more new matter and demonstration & will be of greater Utility than any Book extant on these objects\u2014to my knowledge\u2014When Published you shall have the first copy.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0440-0002", "content": "Title: Farewell Address, 19 September 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: \n            Friends & Fellow-Citizens \n            United States 19th September 1796\n          The period for a new election of a Citizen, to Administer the Executive government of the United States, being not far distant, and the time actually arrived, when your thoughts must be employed in designating the person, who is to be cloathed with that important trust, it appears to me proper, especially as it may conduce to a more distinct expression of the public voice, that I should now apprise you of the resolution I have formed, to decline being considered among the number of those, out of whom a choice is to be made.\n          I beg you, at the same time, to do me the justice to be assured, that this resolution has not been taken, without a strict regard to all the considerations appertaining to the relation, which binds a dutiful citizen to his country\u2014and that, in withdrawing the tender of service which silence in my situation might imply, I am influenced by no diminution of zeal for your future interest; no deficiency of grateful respect for your past kindness; but am supported by a full conviction that the step is compatible with both.\n          The acceptance of, & continuance hitherto in, the office to which your Suffrages have twice called me, have been a uniform sacrifice of inclination to the opinion of duty, and to a deference for what appeared to be your desire. I constantly hoped, that it would have been much earlier in my power, consistently with motives, which I was not at liberty to disregard, to return to that retirement, from which I had been reluctantly drawn. The strength of my inclination to do this, previous to the last Election, had even led to the preparation of an address to declare it to you; but mature reflection on the then perplexed & critical posture of our Affairs with foreign Nations, and the unanimous advice of persons entitled to my confidence, impelled me to abandon the idea.\n          I rejoice, that the state of your concerns, external as well as internal, no longer renders the pursuit of inclination incompatible with the sentiment of duty, or propriety; & am persuaded whatever partiality may be retained for my services, that in the present circumstances of our country, you will not disapprove my determination to retire.\n          The impressions with which I first undertook the arduous trust, were explained on the proper occasion. In the discharge of this trust, I will only say, that I have with good intentions, contributed towards the Organization and administration of the government, the best exertions of which a very fallible judgment was capable. Not unconscious, in the out set, of the inferiority of my qualifications, experience in my own eyes, perhaps still more in the eyes of others, has strengthened the motives to diffidence of myself; and every day the encreasing weight of years admonishes me more and more, that the shade of retirement is as necessary to me as it will be welcome. Satisfied that if any circumstances have given peculiar value to my services, they were temporary, I have the consolation to believe, that while choice and prudence invite me to quit the political scene, patriotism does not forbid it.\n          In looking forward to the moment, which is intended to terminate the career of my public life, my feelings do not permit me to suspend the deep acknowledgement of that debt of gratitude which I owe to my beloved country, for the many honors it has conferred upon me; still more for the stedfast confidence with which it has supported me; and for the opportunities I have thence enjoyed of manifesting my inviolable attachment, by services faithful & persevering, though in usefulness unequal to my zeal. If benefits have resulted to our country from these services, let it always be remembered to your praise, and as an instructive example in our annals, that, under circumstances in which the Passions agitated in every direction were liable to mislead, amidst appearances sometimes dubious, viscissitudes of fortune often discouraging, in situations in which not unfrequently want of Success has countenanced the spirit of criticism, the constancy of your support was the essential prop of the efforts, and a guarantee of the plans by which they were effected. Profoundly penetrated with this idea, I shall carry it with me to my grave, as a strong incitement to unceasing vows that Heaven may continue to you the choicest tokens of its beneficence\u2014that your Union & brotherly affection my be perpetual\u2014that the free constitution, which is the work of your hands, may be sacredly maintained\u2014that its Administration in every department may be stamped with wisdom and virtue\u2014that, in fine, the happiness of the people of these States, under the auspices of liberty, may be made\ncomplete, by so careful a preservation and so prudent a use of this blessing as will acquire to them the glory of recommending it to the applause, the affection\u2014and adoption of every nation which is yet a stranger to it.\n          Here, perhaps, I ought to stop. But a solicitude for your welfare, which cannot end but with my life, and the apprehension of danger, natural to that solicitude, urge me on an occasion like the present, to offer to your solemn contemplation, and to recommend to your frequent review, some sentiments; which are the result of much reflection, of no inconsiderable observation, and which appear to me all important to the permanency of your felicity as a People. These will be offered to you with the more freedom, as you can only see in them the disinterested warnings of a parting friend, who can possibly have no personal motive to biass his counsel. Nor can I forget, as an encouragement to it, your endulgent reception of my sentiments on a former and not dissimilar occasion.\n          Interwoven as is the love of liberty with every ligament of your hearts, no recommendation of mine is necessary to fortify or confirm the attachment.\n          The Unity of Government which constitutes you one people is also now dear to you. It is justly so; for it is a main Pillar in the Edifice of your real independence, the support of your tranquility at home, your peace abroad; of your safety; of your prosperity; of that very Liberty which you so highly prize. But as it is easy to foresee, that from different causes & from different quarters, much pains will be taken, many artifices employed, to weaken in your minds the conviction of this truth; as this is the point in your political fortress against which the batteries of internal and external enemies will be most constantly and actively (though often covertly & insidiously) directed, it is of infinite moment, that you should properly estimate the immense value of your national Union, to your collective & individual happiness; that you should cherish a cordial, habitual & immoveable attachment to it; accustoming yourselves to think and speak of it as of the Palladium of your political safety and prosperity; watching for its preservation with jealous anxiety; discountenancing whatever may suggest even a suspicion that it can in any event be abandoned; and indignantly frowning upon the first dawning of every attempt to alienate any portion of our Country from the\nrest, or to enfeeble the sacred ties which now link together the various parts.\n          For this you have every inducement of sympathy and interest. Citizens by birth or choice, of a common country, that country has a right to concentrate your affections. The name of AMERICAN, which belongs to you, in your national capacity, must always exalt the just pride of Patriotism, more than any appellation derived from local discriminations. With slight shades of difference, you have the same Religion, Manners, Habits & political Principles. You have in a common cause fought and triumphed together\u2014the independence & Liberty you possess are the work of joint councils, and joint efforts\u2014of common dangers, sufferings and successes.\n          But these considerations, however powerfully they address themselves to your sensibility are greatly outweighed by those which apply more immediately to your Interest. Here every portion of our country finds the most commanding motives for carefully guarding & preserving the Union of the whole.\n          The North, in an unrestrained intercourse with the South, protected by the equal Laws of a common government, finds in the productions of the latter, great additional resources of maritime & commercial enterprise and precious materials of manufacturing industry. The South in the same Intercourse, benefitting by the Agency of the North, sees its agriculture grow & its commence expand. Turning partly into its own channels the seamen of the North, it finds its particular navigation envigorated; and while it contributes, in different ways, to nourish & increase the general mass of the national navigation, it looks forward to the protection of a maritime strength, to which itself is unequally adapted. The East, in a like intercourse with the West, already finds, and in the progressive improvement of interior communications, by land & water, will more & more find a valuable vent for the commodities which it brings from abroad, or manufactures at home. The West derives from the East supplies requisite to its growth & comfort\u2014and what is perhaps of still greater consequence, it must of necessity owe the secure enjoyment of indispensable outlets for its own productions to the weight, influence, and the future maritime strength of the Atlantic side of the Union, directed by an indissoluble community of Interest as one Nation. Any other tenure by which the West can hold this essential\nadvantage, whether derived from its own seperate strength, or from an apostate & unnatural connection with any foreign Power, must be intrinsically precarious.\n          While then every part of our country thus feels an immediate & particular Interest in Union, all the parts combined cannot fail to find in the united mass of means & efforts greater strength, greater resource, proportionably greater security from external danger, a less frequent interruption of their Peace by foreign Nations; and, what is of inestimable value! they must derive from Union an exemption from those broils and Wars between themselves, which so frequently afflict neighbouring countries, not tied together by the same government; which their own rivalships alone would be sufficient to produce, but which opposite foreign alliances, attachments & intriegues would stimulate and imbitter. Hence likewise they will avoid the necessity of those overgrown military establishments, which under any form of Government are inauspicious to liberty, and which are to be regarded as particularly hostile to Republican Liberty: In this sense it is, that your Union ought to be considered as a main prop of your liberty, and that the love of the one ought to endear to you the preservation of the other.\n          These considerations speak a persuasive language to every reflecting & virtuous mind, and exhibit the continuance of the UNION as a primary object of Patriotic desire. Is there a doubt, whether a common government can embrace so large a sphere? Let experience solve it. To listen to mere speculation in such a case were criminal. We are authorized to hope that a proper organization of the whole, with the auxiliary agency of governments for the respective Subdivisions, will afford a happy issue to the experiment. \u2019Tis well worth a fair and full experiment. With such powerful and obvious motives to Union, affecting all parts of our country, while experience shall not have demonstrated its impracticability, there will always be reason to distrust the patriotism of those, who in any quarter may endeavor to weaken its bands.\n          In contemplating the causes wch may disturb our Union, it occurs as matter of serious concern, that any ground should have been furnished for characterizing parties by Geographical discriminations\u2014Northern and Southern\u2014Atlantic and Western; whence designing men may endeavour to excite a belief that\nthere is a real difference of local interests and views. One of the expedients of party to acquire influence, within particular districts, is to misrepresent the opinions & aims of other Districts. You cannot shield yourselves too much against the jealousies and heart burnings which spring from these misrepresentations. They tend to render alien to each other those who ought to be bound together by fraternal affection. The Inhabitants of our Western country have lately had a useful lesson on this head. They have seen, in the Negociation by the Executive, and in the unanimous ratification by the Senate, of the Treaty with Spain, and in the universal satisfaction at that event, throughout the United States, a decisive proof how unfounded were the suspicions propagated among them of a policy in the General Government and in the Atlantic states unfriendly to their Interests in regard to the Mississippi. They have been witnesses to the formation of two Treaties, that with G: Britain and that with Spain, which secure to them every thing they could desire, in respect to our Foreign relations, towards confirming their prosperity. Will it not be their wisdom to rely for the preservation of these advantages on the Union by wch they were procured? Will they not henceforth be deaf to those advisers, if such there are, who would sever them from their Brethren and connect them with Aliens?\n          To the efficacy and permanency of Your Union, a Government for the whole is indispensable. No Alliances however strict between the parts can be an adequate substitute. They must inevitably experience the infractions & interruptions which all Alliances in all times have experienced. Sensible of this momentous truth, you have improved upon your first essay, by the adoption of a Constitution of Government, better calculated than your former for an intimate Union, and for the efficacious management of your common concerns. This government, the offspring of our own choice uninfluenced and unawed, adopted upon full investigation and mature deliberation, completely free in its principles, in the distribution of its powers, uniting security with energy, and containing within itself a provision for its own amendment, has a just claim to your confidence and your support. Respect for its authority, compliance with its Laws, acquiescence in its measures, are duties enjoined by the fundamental maxims of true Liberty. The basis of our political systems is the\nright of the people to make and to alter their Constitutions of Government. But the Constitution which at any time exists, \u2019till changed by an explicit and authentic act of the whole People, is sacredly obligatory upon all. The very idea of the power and the right of the People to establish Government presupposes the duty of every Individual to obey the established Government.\n          All obstructions to the execution of the Laws, all combinations and associations, under whatever plausible character, with the real design to direct, controul counteract, or awe the regular deliberation and action of the Constituted authorities are distructive of this fundamental principle and of fatal tendency. They serve to organize faction, to give it an artificial and extraordinary force\u2014to put in the place of the delegated will of the Nation, the will of a party; often a small but artful and enterprizing minority of the Community; and, according to the alternate triumphs of different parties, to make the public administration the Mirror of the ill concerted and incongruous projects of faction, rather than the Organ of consistent and wholesome plans digested by common councils and modefied by mutual interests. However combinations or Associations of the above description may now & then answer popular ends, they are likely, in the course of time and things, to become potent engines, by which cunning, ambitious and unprincipled men will be enabled to subvert the Power of the People, & to usurp for themselves the reins of Government; destroying afterwards the very engines which have lifted them to unjust dominion.\n          Towards the preservation of your Government and the permanency of your present happy state, it is requisite, not only that you steadily discountenance irregular oppositions to its acknowledged authority, but also that you resist with care the spirit of innovation upon its principles however specious the pretexts. One method of assault may be to effect, in the forms of the Constitution, alterations which will impair the energy of the system, and thus to undermine what cannot be directly overthrown. In all the changes to which you may be invited, remember that time and habit are at least as necessary to fix the true character of Governments, as of other human institutions\u2014that experience is the surest standard, by which to test the real tendency of the existing Constitution of a country\u2014that facility in changes upon the credit of mere hypotheses & opinion exposes to perpetual\nchange, from the endless variety of hypotheses and opinion: and remember, especially, that for the efficient management of your common interests, in a country so extensive as ours, a Government of as much vigour as is consistent with the perfect security of Liberty is indispensable\u2014Liberty itself will find in such a Government, with powers properly distributed and adjusted, its surest Guardian. It is indeed little else than a name, where the Government is too feeble to withstand the enterprises of faction, to confine each member of the Society within the limits prescribed by the laws, and to maintain all in the secure and tranquil enjoyment of the rights of person and property.\n          I have already intimated to you the danger of Parties in the State, with particular reference to the founding of them on Geographical discriminations. Let me now take a more comprehensive view, & warn you in the most solemn manner against the baneful effects of the Spirit of Party, generally.\n          This spirit, unfortunately, is inseperable from our nature, having its root in the strongest passions of the human Mind. It exists under different shapes in all Governments, more or less stifled, controuled, or repressed; but in those of the popular form it is seen in its greatest rankness and is truly their worst enemy.\n          The alternate domination of one faction over another, sharpened by the spirit of revenge natural to party dissention, which in different ages & countries has perpetrated the most horrid enormities, is itself a frightful despotism. But this leads at length to a more formal and permanent despotism. The disorders & miseries, which result, gradually incline the minds of men to seek security & repose in the absolute power of an Individual: and sooner or later the chief of some prevailing faction more able or more fortunate than his competitors, turns this disposition to the purposes of his own elevation, on the ruins of Public Liberty.\n          Without looking forward to an extremity of this kind (which nevertheless ought not to be entirely out of sight) the common & continual mischiefs of the spirit of Party are sufficient to make it the interest and the duty of a wise People to discourage and restrain it.\n          It serves always to distract the Public Councils and enfeeble the Public Administration. It agitates the Community with ill founded jealousies and false alarms, kindles the animosity of one\npart against another, foments occasionally riot & insurrection. It opens the door to foreign influence & corruption, which find a facilitated access to the government itself through the channels of party passions. Thus the policy and the will of one country, are subjected to the policy and will of another.\n          There is an opinion that parties in free countries are useful checks upon the Administration of the Government and serve to keep alive the spirit of Liberty. This within certain limits is probably true\u2014and in Governments of a Monarchical cast Patriotism may look with endulgence, if not with favour, upon the spirit of party. But in those of the popular character, in Governments purely elective, it is a spirit not to be encouraged. From their natural tendency, it is certain there will always be enough of that spirit for every salutary purpose. And there being constant danger of excess, the effort ought to be, by force of public opinion, to mitigate & assuage it. A fire not to be quenched; it demands a uniform vigilance to prevent its bursting into a flame, lest instead of warming it should consume.\n          It is important, likewise, that the habits of thinking in a free Country should inspire caution, in those entrusted with its administration, to confine themselves within their respective Constitutional spheres, avoiding in the exercise of the Powers of one department to encroach upon another. The spirit of encroachment tends to consolidate the powers of all the departments in one, and thus to create whatever the form of government, a real despotism. A just estimate of that love of power, and proneness to abuse it, which predominates in the human heart is sufficient to satisfy us of the truth of this position. The necessity of reciprocal checks in the exercise of political power; by dividing and distributing it into different depositories, & constituting each the Guardian of the Public Weal against invasions by the others, has been evinced by experiments ancient & modern; some of them in our country & under our own eyes. To preserve them must be as necessary as to institute them. If in the opinion of the People, the distribution or modification of the Constitutional powers be in any particular wrong, let it be corrected by an amendment in the way which the Constitution designates. But let there be no change by usurpation; for though this, in one instance, may be the instrument of good, it is the customary weapon by which free\ngovernments are destroyed. The precedent must always greatly overbalance in permanent evil any partial or transient benefit which the use can at any time yield.\n          Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, Religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of Patriotism, who should labour to subvert these great Pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of Men & citizens. The mere Politician, equally with the pious man ought to respect & to cherish them. A volume could not trace all their connections with private & public felicity. Let it simply be asked where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the oaths, which are the instruments of investigation in Courts of Justice? And let us with caution indulge the supposition, that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education on minds of peculiar structure\u2014reason & experience both forbid us to expect that National morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.\n          \u2019Tis substantially true, that virtue or morality is a necessary spring of popular government. The rule indeed extends with more or less force to every species of free Government. Who that is a sincere friend to it can look with indifference upon attempts to shake the foundation of the fabric?\n          Promote then as an object of primary importance, Institutions for the general diffusion of knowledge. In proportion as the structure of a government gives force to public opinion, it is essential that public opinion should be enlightened.\n          As a very important source of strength & security cherish public credit. One method of preserving it is to use it as sparingly as possible: avoiding occasions of expence by cultivating peace, but remembering also that timely disbursements to prepare for danger frequently prevent much greater disbursements to repel it\u2014avoiding likewise the accumulation of debt, not only by shunning occasions of expence, but by vigorous exertions in time of Peace to discharge the Debts which unavoidable wars may have occasioned, not ungenerously throwing upon posterity the burthen which we ourselves ought to bear. The execution of these maxims belongs to your Representatives, but it is necessary that public opinion should cooperate. To facilitate to them the\nperformance of their duty, it is essential that you should practically bear in mind, that towards the payment of debts there must be Revenue\u2014that to have Revenue there must be taxes\u2014that no taxes can be devised which are not more or less inconvenient & unpleasant\u2014that the intrinsic embarrassment inseperable from the selection of the proper objects (which is always a choice of difficulties) ought to be a decisive motive for a candid construction of the conduct of the Government in making it, and for a spirit of acquiescence in the measures for obtaining Revenue which the public exigencies may at any time dictate.\n          Observe good faith & justice towds all Nations cultivate peace & harmony with all\u2014Religion & morality enjoin this conduct; and can it be that good policy does not equally enjoin it? It will be worthy of a free, enlightened, and, at no distant period, a great Nation, to give to mankind the magnanimous and too novel example of a People always guided by an exalted justice & benevolence. Who can doubt that in the course of time and things the fruits of such a plan would richly repay any temporary advantages wch might be lost by a steady adherence to it? Can it be, that Providence has not connected the permanent felicity of a Nation with its virtue? The experiment, at least, is recommended by every sentiment which ennobles human Nature. Alas! is it rendered impossible by its vices?\n          In the execution of such a plan, nothing is more essential than that permanent, inveterate antipathies against particular Nations and passionate attachments for others should be excluded; and that in place of them just & amicable feelings towards all should be cultivated. The Nation, which indulges towards another an habitual hatred, or an habitual fondness, is in some degree a slave. It is a slave to its animosity or to its affection, either of which is sufficient to lead it astray from its duty and its interest. Antipathy in one Nation against another disposes each more readily to offer insult and injury, to lay hold of slight causes of umbrage, and to be haughty and intractable, when accidental or trifling occasions of dispute occur. Hence frequent collisions, obstinate envenomed and bloody contests. The Nation, prompted by ill will & resentment sometimes impels to War the Government, contrary to the best calculations of policy. The Government sometimes participates in the national propensity, and adopts through passion what reason would reject; at other\ntimes, it makes the animosity of the nation subservient to projects of hostility instigated by pride, ambition and other sinister & pernicious motives. The peace often, sometimes perhaps the Liberty, of Nations has been the victim.\n          So likewise, a passionate attachment of one Nation for another produces a variety of evils. Sympathy for the favourite nation, facilitating the illusion of an imaginary common interest, in cases where no real common interest exists, and infusing into one the enmities of the other, betrays the former into a participation in the quarrels & Wars of the latter, without adequate inducement or justification: It leads also to concessions to the favourite Nation of priviledges denied to others, which is apt doubly to injure the Nation making the concessions\u2014by unnecessarily parting with what ought to have been retained\u2014& by exciting jealousy, ill will, and a disposition to retaliate, in the parties from whom eql priviledges are withheld: And it gives to ambitious, corrupted, or deluded citizens (who devote themselves to the favourite Nation) facility to betray, or sacrifice the interests of their own country, without odium, sometimes even with popularity; gilding with the appearances of a virtuous sense of obligation a commendable deference for public opinion, or a laudable zeal for public good, the base or foolish compliances of ambition, corruption or infatuation.\n          As avenues to foreign influence in innumerable ways, such attachments are particularly alarming to the truly enlightened and independent Patriot. How many opportunities do they afford to tamper with domestic factions, to practice the arts of seduction, to mislead public opinion, to influence or awe the public Councils! Such an attachment of a small or weak, towards a great & powerful Nation, dooms the former to be the satellite of the latter.\n          Against the insidious wiles of foreign influence (I conjure you to believe me fellow citizens) the jealousy of a free people ought to be constantly awake; since history and experience prove that foreign influence is one of the most baneful foes of Republican Government. But that jealousy to be useful must be impartial; else it becomes the instrument of the very influence to be avoided, instead of a defence against it. Excessive partiality for one foreign nation and excessive dislike of another, cause those whom they actuate to see danger only on one side, and\nserve to veil and even second the arts of influence on the other. Real Patriots, who may resist the intrigues of the favourite, are liable to become suspected and odious; while its tools and dupes usurp the applause & confidence of the people, to surrender their interests.\n          The great rule of conduct for us, in regard to foreign Nations is in extending our commercial relations to have with them as little political connection as possible. So far as we have already formed engagements let them be fulfilled with perfect good faith. Here let us stop.\n          Europe has a set of primary interests, which to us have none, or a very remote relation. Hence she must be engaged in frequent controversies, the causes of which are essentially foreign to our concerns. Hence therefore it must be unwise in us to implicate ourselves, by artificial ties, in the ordinary vicissitudes of her politics, or the ordinary combinations & collisions of her friendships, or enmities.\n          Our detached & distant situation invites and enables us to pursue a different course. If we remain one People, under an efficient government, the period is not far off, when we may defy material injury from external annoyance; when we may take such an attitude as will cause the neutrality we may at any time resolve upon to be scrupulously respected; when belligerent nations, under the impossibility of making acquisitions upon us, will not lightly hazard the giving us provocation; when we may choose peace or War, as our interest guided by justice shall counsel.\n          Why forego the advantages of so peculiar a situation? Why quit our own to stand upon foreign ground? Why, by interweaving our destiny with that of any part of Europe, entangle our peace and prosperity in the toils of European ambition, Rivalship, Interest, Humour or Caprice?\n          \u2019Tis our true policy to steer clear of permanent Alliances, with any portion of the foreign world\u2014So far, I mean, as we are now at liberty to do it\u2014for let me not be understood as capable of patronising infidility to existing engagements. (I hold the maxim no less applicable to public than to private affairs, that honesty is always the best policy). I repeat it therefore, let those engagements be observed in their genuine sense. But in my opinion, it is unnecessary and would be unwise to extend them.\n          Taking care always to keep ourselves, by suitable\nestablishments, on a respectably defensive posture, we may safely trust to temporary alliances for extraordinary emergencies.\n          Harmony, liberal intercourse with all Nations, are recommended by policy, humanity and interest. But even our Commercial policy should hold an equal and impartial hand: neither seeking nor granting exclusive favours or preferences; consulting the natural course of things; diffusing & diversifying by gentle means the streams of Commerce, but forcing nothing; establishing, with Powers so disposed\u2014in order to give trade a stable course, to define the rights of our merchants, and to enable the Government to support them\u2014conventional rules of intercourse, the best that present circumstances and mutual opinion will permit, but temporary, & liable to be from time to time abandoned or varied, as experience and circumstances shall dictate; constantly keeping in view; that \u2019tis folly in one Nation to look for disinterested favors from another\u2014that it must pay with a portion of its Independence for whatever it may accept under that character\u2014that by such acceptance, it may place itself in the condition of having given equivalents for nominal favours and yet of being reproached with ingratitude for not giving more. There can be no greater error than to expect, or calculate upon real favours from Nation to Nation. \u2019Tis an illusion which experience must cure, which a just pride ought to discard.\n          In offering to you, my Countrymen, these counsels of an old and affectionate friend, I dare not hope they will make the strong and lasting impression, I could wish\u2014that they will controul the usual current of the passions, or prevent our Nation from running the course which has hitherto marked the Destiny of Nations: But if I may even flatter myself, that they may be productive of some partial benefit, some occasional good, that they may now & then recur to moderate the fury of party spirit, to warn against the mischiefs of foreign Intriegue, to guard against the Impostures of pretended patriotism\u2014this hope will be a full recompence for the solicitude for your welfare, by which they have been dictated.\n          How far in the discharge of my Official duties, I have been guided by the principles which have been delineated, the public Records and other evidences of my conduct must witness to You and to the world. To myself, the assurance of my own conscience is, that I have at least believed myself to be guided by them.\n          In relation to the still subsisting War in Europe, my Proclamation of the 22d of April 1793 is the index to my Plan. Sanctioned by your approving voice and by that of your Representatives in both Houses of Congress, the spirit of that measure has continually governed me; uninfluenced by any attempts to deter or divert me from it.\n          After deliberate examination with the aid of the best lights I could obtain I was well satisfied that our country, under all the circumstances of the case, had a right to take, and was bound in duty and interest, to take a Neutral position. Having taken it, I determined, as far as should depend upon me, to maintain it, with moderation, perseverence & firmness.\n          The considerations which respect the right to hold this conduct, it is not necessary on this occasion to detail. I will only observe, that according to my understanding of the matter, that right, so far from being denied by any of the Belligerent Powers has been virtually admitted by all.\n          The duty of holding a Neutral conduct may be inferred, without any thing more, from the obligation which justice and humanity impose on every Nation, in cases in which it is free to act, to maintain inviolate the relations of Peace and amity towards other Nations.\n          The inducements of interest for observing that conduct will best be referred to your own reflections & experience. With me, a predominant motive has been to endeavour to gain time to our country to settle & mature its yet recent institutions, and to progress without interruption, to that degree of strength & consistency, which is necessary to give it, humanly speaking, the command of its own fortunes.\n          Though in reviewing the incidents of my Administration, I am unconscious of intentional error\u2014I am nevertheless too sensible of my defects not to think it probable that I may have committed many errors. Whatever they may be I fervently beseech the Almighty to avert or mitigate the evils to which they may tend. I shall also carry with me the hope that my Country will never cease to view them with indulgence; and that after forty five years of my life dedicated to its Service, with an upright zeal, the faults of incompetent abilities will be consigned to oblivion, as myself must soon be to the mansions of rest.\n          Relying on its kindness in this as in other things, and\nactuated by that fervent love towards it, which is so natural to a man, who views in it the native soil of himself and his progenitors for several Generations; I anticipate with pleasing expectation that retreat, in which I promise myself to realize, without alloy, the sweet enjoyment of partaking, in the midst of my fellow Citizens, the benign influence of good Laws under a free Government\u2014the ever favourite object of my heart, and the happy reward, as I trust, of our mutual cares, labours and dangers.\n            Go: Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0441", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 19 September 1796\nFrom: Jay, John\nTo: Washington, George\n        It occurs to me that it may not be perfectly prudent to say that we are never to expect Favors from a nation, for that assertion seems to imply that nations always are, or always ought to be moved only by interested motives. It is true that disinterested Favors are so rare, that on that account they are not to be expected between nations; and if that Sentiment turned on that Reason vizt their being so uncommon, the assertion would then be so limited by that Reason, as not to be liable to misconstruction\u2014I think it would be more safe to omit the word expected, and retain only the words not to be calculated upon, which appear to me to be quite sufficient\u2014Permit me to submit this to your Consideration and believe me to be with perfect Respect Esteem & attachment Dear Sir your obliged & obt Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0442", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Lee, 19 September 1796\nFrom: Lee, John\nTo: Washington, George\n          Philadelphia September 19th 1796.No. 23 North Eighth Street\n        Having observed in Claypoole\u2019s Paper of this morning your intention of declining to stand a Candidate for the Chief Magistracy of the Executive of the United States at the ensuing election, for which, as one of your sincere friends, I cannot help regretting; therefore, Sir, permit me to lay before your Excellency my present situation, and the services which I formerly did towards supporting the Independence of the United States at a time when in the greatest danger, and, as a token of your friendship and respect for what I had then done, I received the enclosed letter from you for the same; but within a few years past I have met with some considerable misfortunes by a long and tedious lawsuit in New Jersey (which is not yet determined) for the recovering some very valuable Lands there, which I bought in England many years since; through these disapppointments, and having a wife and four children to support, I am induced, by the advice of a few friends, to take the liberty of reminding your Excellency that I am the Person your letter above mentioned was directed to \u201cat Mount Pleasant near Mount Holly,\u201d and as I have formerly been an Agent for several Members of Parliament, before the Revolution, in the Floridas, where at that time they held great quantities of land, and were under contract by Treaty with tne upper and Lower Creek Nations of Indians to supply their necessities annually according to the said Treaty; should your Excellency think me worthy of being employed as an Agent, or in any other Department under the Indian Trading-House Bill, which passed the last Sessions of Congress, or in any other service of the United States, it will be received by me with gratitude from your Excellency\u2019s hands, and any Security for the Trust reposed in me, my friends are ready and willing to give.\n        My recommendation was delivered to Tench Francis Esqr. (the Purveyor &c.) several months past, and filed in his Office with others at that time, a Copy of which is herewith enclosed, as also a Certificate of the time I took the oath of fidelity to the States, which was within two months after my arrival from England with the packet of Letters &ca from your old Friend and Neighbour\nColl Fairfax, which I forwarded to you at West Point so soon as I got out from New York to Elizabeth Town which was about the sixteenth of September \u201978; I had the parcel seven days in New York but to preserve the contents, I was obliged to break open the whole and tear them up in small pieces, which I put into separate sheets of paper numbered with directions how your Excellency should understand to read them which circumstance I have no doubt you may now well recollect.\n        I conclude with my most sincere wishes for your health, and that you may end your days in that rural comfort and happiness of a domestic life, which you once enjoyed with great pleasure before you undertook the arduous task to obtain and support the Independence of your native Country, and for which every good Citizen will remember your name and services to the latest posterity. I have the Honor to be, (with the utmost respect) Your Excellency\u2019s obedient & very humble Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0443", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Edward Lynch, 20 September 1796\nFrom: Lynch, Edward\nTo: Washington, George\n          Baltimore Septr 20th 1796\n        Having seen a Publication in the Baltimore newspaper of your intended resignation of being President of the United states I observed it with great regret and so did many others that you shold resign being the chief Majistrate of our Country. My Father who fought with others under you feel very unhappy on the occasion in the late happy Revolution in support of the Liberty of\nour country. The reason I thus write to you is that I am a student in the College called after your name Washington College. Although as young as I am I feel in my breast your intended Resignation. A vocation having taken place I came to see my father. One Great happiness we have and never will forget is that you sir in all sitiations was all perfection. May God as I hope he will when you die Recieve you in his blessed Mansion but yet I pray that he may Prolong your life to give advice to those that fill your place. with tears and yet pleasure I have the honour of subscribeing myself Although a boy your Humble servant\n          Edward Lynchson of Major John Lynch", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/05-20-02-0445", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 20 September 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n          Department of State Sept. 20. 1796.\n        I have just received a letter dated the 17th from Judge Benson: He accepts the place of third Commissioner under the fifth article of the British treaty, and was to set out yesterday for Passamaquoddy, to meet there the other Commissioners on the third of October. The trust, he remarks, is not incompatible with his present office; and interfering with it only for a short time, his acceptance of it appeared to him indispensable. He concludes with these words\u2014\u201cThat my own judgement has coincided with the wishes of the President, certainly affords me a very sensible satisfaction.\u201d I am with the highest respect, sir, your most obt servt\n          Timothy Pickering.\n          P.S. Amos Marsh, the District Attorney has desired to resign his office, & to have a successor speedily appointed. He recommends no one. It shall be a subject of enquiry.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00001", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Deakins, Jr., 14 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Deakins, William, Jr.\n                        Permit me to recommend the enclosed letter to your care. And to ask if it be\n                            practicable to procure me ten or a dozen Bushels of Oats from the Glades for feed, by the\n                            first of March next? With esteem & regard I am\u2014Dear Sir Your Obedt Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00002", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Charles Lee, 14 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lee, Charles\n                        This letter is for your eye only\u2014It is written for the purpose of expressing my\n                            regret for your continued absence from the Seat of the Government. Rely upon it, it is\n                            productive of unpleasant remarks, in which I must be involved. It will, indeed is,\n                            considered as making a Sinecure of the Office. To suppose there is no particular occasion\n                            for the Law-Officer of the government at the Seat of it during the recess of Congress is\n                            incorrect\u2014Many cases have presented themselves since the adjournment, requesting the opinion\n                            & advice of the Attorney General (besides other duties marked out by the Laws)\u2014some\n                            points have called for your aid since I have been here\u2014and will occur without an hours\n                            previous notice in times like the present. Let me entreat you therefore to come on without\n                            delay and to be assured of the esteem & friendship of Your", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00004", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Alexander Smith, 14 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Smith, Alexander\n                        Your letter of the 9th has been duly received. When I authorised Mr Pearce to\n                            sell my flour, I limitted him to the largest credit the circumstances of my own business\n                            would enable me to give, consistently with my own wants, & the arrangements I had\n                            contemplated. To extend the credit ninety days longer, would not only derange my own\n                            plans\u2014but, as the same causes will always produce the same effects, at the end of ninety\n                            days, a further indulgence might be required.\n                        It is from the produce of this flour that Mr Pearce himself, all the Overseers\n                            and a variety of other incidental expences, are to be paid. It is, and ever has been a rule\n                            with me, never to suffer a man to look for a just debt without receiving payment; and before\n                            I left home (repeating it since) in very strong terms, I have directed\u2014Mr Pearce to settle\n                            with every one, and pay to the last farthing I owe; that there may be no after claims when\n                            he is gone, either upon his successor or myself. I mention these facts, and circumstances,\n                            to show you how extremely inconvenient it will be for me, to comply with your requests.\n                        Nonetheless, being unwilling to distress anyone, if it be possible to avoid it,\n                            I shall direct Mr Pearce in the letter I am about to write to him, to day, to ascertain the\n                            aggregate sum required, to pay the demands upon him, on my account; and if you will give him\n                            the most unequivocal surety of paying it on, or before the 24th of December (that he may\n                            have time between that and the first of January to clear himself out) and will give\n                            unquestionably security also that the residue shall be paid on or before the first day of\n                            March, both sums carrying interest from the day they become due until paid; that he may\n                            fix the matter with you agreeably thereto. I cannot forbear adding, however, that the receipt\n                            of the whole sum, on the day it becomes due, would be infinitely more pleasing to me; but if\n                            this cannot be, you are to expect no favor from me in case of A second disappointment\u2014I\n                            am\u2014Sir Your Very Hble Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00005", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Augustine Washington, 14 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Washington, William Augustine\n                        The letter which you put under cover to me, for Mr Philips of Andover, was forwarded, and with its enclosure\n                            safely received, as you will perceive by the Answers herewith sent.\n                        Without any application, intimation, or the most remote thought or expectation\n                            of the kind, on my part; Sir Isaac Heard, Garter & principal King at Arms, wrote to\n                            me some years since enclosing our Armorial; and requesting a genealogical account of our\n                            progenitors since the first arrival of them in this country. I gave him the best information\n                            of which I was possessed; to wit\u2014that John & Lawrence\u2014two brothers\u2014came over in, or\n                            about the year 1657. and traced our descent from John, who was the elder. He next wished to\n                            know the descendents of Lawrence from whom the Chotanck Washington\u2019s have proceeded. I wrote\n                            (to the best of my recollection) to Lawrence Washington for an account of them, but have\n                            never received one, and of course could give none.\n                        Lately, I have received another Letter from Sir Isaac Heard, of which the\n                            enclosed is a copy; and although I have not the least Solicitude to trace our Ancestry, yet\n                            as this Gentleman appears to interest himself in the research, common civility requires that\n                            he should obtain the aids he asks, if it is in our power to give it to him. Let me request\n                            of you, therefore, to give me what assistance you can to solve the queries propounded in his\n                            letter, if you have any old papers which have a tendency towards\n                            it: if not, or whether or not, by examining the Inscriptions on the Tombs at the Ancient\n                            Vault, & burying ground of our Ancestors, which is on your\n                            Estate at Bridge-Creek. And if you are able to do it, trace the descendents of Lawrence\n                            Washington, who came over with John, our Progenitor. With much truth, I am your sincere\n                            friend, and Affectionate Uncle", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00006", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Arthur Campbell, 15 November 1796\nFrom: Campbell, Arthur\nTo: Washington, George\n                        It would be doing violence to my feelings, did I omit the present opportunity to\n                            express at least some sentiments of affection some effusions of gratitude for your many and\n                            important services to the United States in general, but more especially for the share of\n                            attention you have paid to the safety and prosperity of the Western Country, and that not by\n                            slight and temporary measures but by the most solid and useful regulations. Our Wives, our\n                            Children, and vast property now pass and repass in safety, as it were in full view of our\n                            late enemies. The hand that was used to raise the bloody Hatchet, now meets the wearied\n                            Traveller with greetings, and a supply of provisions. This is almost literally, the Wolf\n                            lying down with the Lamb, and none to do hurt in all my holy Mountains, saith the Lord of\n                            Hosts. The finishing hand to the great business of peace, with the Aborigines of the Country\n                            is now about to be made, by your calling a full Representation of the Tribes to meet at the\n                            seat of the general Government. There is now more than a hope that the peace will be\n                            permanent if a sacred regard to Treatys on our part can be maintained.\n                        It came from the lips of the greatest Friend to Man\u2014Blessed is the peace-Maker.\n                            May blessings of more value than can be given by temporal Things, be a solace in your old\n                            Age, and your sure and great reward in the World to come. your Affectionate fellow Citizen\n                            And devouted humble servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00007", "content": "Title: From George Washington to George Washington Parke Custis, 15 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Custis, George Washington Parke\n                        Yesterday\u2019s mail brought me your letter of the 12th instant, and under cover of\n                            this letter you will receive a ten-dollar bill, to purchase a gown, &c., if proper.\n                            But as the classes may be distinguished by a different insignia, I advise you not to provide\n                            these without first obtaining the approbation of your tutors; otherwise you may be\n                            distinguished more by folly, than by the dress.\n                        It affords me pleasure to hear that you are agreeably fixed; and I receive\n                            still more from the assurance you give of attending closely to your studies. It is you\n                            yourself who is to derive immediate benefit from these. Your country may do it hereafter.\n                            The more knowledge you acquire, the greater will be the probability of your succeeding in\n                            both, and the greater will be your thirst for more.\n                        I rejoice to hear you went through your examination with propriety, and have no\n                            doubt but that the president has placed you in the class which he conceived best adapted to\n                            the present state of your improvement. The more there are above you, the greater your\n                            exertions should be to ascend; but let your promotion result from your own application, and\n                            from intrinsic merit, not from the labors of others. The last would prove fallacious, and\n                            expose you to the reproach of the daw in borrowed feathers. This would be inexcusable in\n                            you, because there is no occasion for it; forasmuch, as you need nothing but the exertion of\n                            the talents you possess, with proper directions, to acquire all that is necessary; and the\n                            hours allotted for study, if properly improved, will enable you to do this. Although the\n                            confinement may feel irksome at first, the advantages resulting from it, to a reflecting\n                        Endeavor to conciliate the good will of all your\n                            fellow-students, rendering them every act of kindness in your power. Be particularly\n                            obliging and attentive to your chamber-mate, Mr Forsyth; who, from the account I have of\n                            him, is an admirable young man, and strongly impressed with the importance of a liberal and\n                            finished education. But above all, be obedient to your tutors, and in a particular manner\n                            respect the president of the seminary, who is both learned and good.\n                        For any particular advantages you may derive from the attention and aid of Mr\n                            Forsyth, I shall have a disposition to reward. One thing more and I will close this letter.\n                            Never let an indigent person ask, without receiving something,\n                            if you have the means; always recollecting in what light the widow\u2019s mite was viewed.\n                        Your grandmother, sister, and all here are well, and feeling a strong interest\n                            in your welfare, join most cordially with me in every good wish for it. Affectionately, I am your", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00009", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Jacob Van Vleck, 15 November 1796\nFrom: Van Vleck, Jacob\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Your Esteemed favor of the 9th Inst. signifying Your desire to place Your Niece\n                            in our boarding-School is before me.\n                        Under a lively sense of the honor done to our humble Institution for the\n                            education of young Ladies by the Confidence Your Exlly is pleased to place in our imperfect\n                            endeavors to promote as far as in us lies the wellfare of the rising generation, and with a\n                            sincere Wish, to render even the smallest Service to the beloved father of our Country; Tho\u2019\n                            not without diffidence, lest the merits of our School might have been overrated and your\n                            favorable Expectations with respect to your Niece may be disappointed in the end\u2014I do\n                            myself the honor to inform You, that I will endeavor to accomodate Your Niece within the\n                            Course of two or three Months, agreeable to your request. With the most profound Respect to\n                            Your good Lady and Yourself, I have the honor to subscribe myself Your Excellys most Obedient", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00010", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Tobias Lear, 16 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lear, Tobias\n                        I hardly know what apology to make for the positive manner in which I declared\n                            the Certificate for the hundred shares in the Bank of Columbia, had never been in my hands.\n                            The fact is otherwise, and I delay no time to correct my error.\n                        I found it last night and account for it thus. Given to me, I suppose, (for I\n                            have not the most obscure recollection of the circumstances) at a time when my mind was\n                            occupied on, or immediately called to some other subject I put it loose in my\n                            travelling Chaise-box, where Papers (frequently wanted at Mount Vernon) always remained;\n                            intending, I presume, to file it with the other certificates, in the same box, but not doing it then, and forgetting to do it afterwards, and every\n                            recollection of having seen it, it might have remained there \u2019till dooms-day undiscovered, If\n                            I had not, for another purpose, examined every paper therein separately, and by that means found the certificate which has puzzled both you\n                            and me, to know what had become of it.\n                        Mr Dandridge (as I presume he has informed you) applied, without encouragement,\n                            to the Revd Mr Medor of this City (one of the Moravian Clergy) for the Speedy admission of\n                            Maria, into the School for young Ladies, at Bethlehem. Since then, I have\n                            written to the Principal of that School\u2014the Revd Mr Vanvleck, but have not received his\n                            answer. When it comes I will forward it to you.\n                        Mr Smith of Alexandria to whom my flour was sold, is craving, earnestly, a\n                            prolongation of payment ninety days. This I do not like for two reasons\u20141. because it\n                            carries along with it distrust of his circumstances; and 2. because the doing of it, would be\n                            inconvenient, and a derangement of my own measures. I have however, not wanting to distress\n                            him, placed the matter upon the following ground. Pay Mr Pearce the aggregate of his\n                            estimate of the Sums necessary to pay his own wages; the Overseers; & other\n                            incidental expences of the Estate, on or before the 24th of next month, & I will\n                            wait until the first day of March next for the balance\u2014provided he can, and will give\n                            indubitable surety that these shall be done.\n                        As Mr Pearce may not be well acquainted with business of this sort, or indeed\n                            with the adequacy of the Security which may be offered\u2014Personal or Real\u2014I have taken the\n                            liberty of mentioning the matter to you\u2014praying, if you should go down to your farm, that you\n                            would aid him with your advice.\n                        Washington Custis has got settled at Princeton College, and I think under\n                            favourable auspices, but the change from his former habits is so great & sudden, and his\n                            hours for study so much increased beyond what he has been accustomed to, that though he\n                            promises to be attentive, it is easy to perceive he is not at all reconciled to it yet. That of getting up an hour before day to commence them, is, I will venture to\n                            pronouce not the least irksome to him at present.\n                        Offer my Respects to Mrs Lear, & love to the Children, in which Mrs\n                            Washington unites, and be assured of the sincere esteem & regard of Dear Sir, Your", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00012", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 17 November 1796\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I have Recived your Letter of the 14th Instant.\n                        With Respect to Mr Alexander Smith I have Taken up his note of 6439 Dollars\n                            which was Lodged In the Bank of Alexandria & have Taken 2 others one payable on the\n                            24th day of December\u2014for 1600 Dollars\u2014the other for 4839 Dollars payable\n                            the first day of March those notes are now Inclosed by Danniel Duglass &\n                                Jesse Simes they are both considered good men\n                            and I beleive Mr Smith him self good for the money\u2014but Mr Simes Is\n                            considered as the Most Monied man In Alexandria. I inquired of Several Gentlemen, men In\n                            Alexandria with Respect to his Credit & Circumstances and I am fully assured that\n                            there is no man safer\u2014but Mr Smith Desired me to Inform you If on Inquirey you should not\n                            think the money perfectly Secure he will Give further Security. and at the same time Desired\n                            me to Inform you was Exceedingly obliged to you for your Indulgence\n                            & says that he will Ceartainly pay to the Time agreed on In the\n                        This will be Given to Mr Lear who I have Requested the favour of to send on\n                            with a note of his to Give you his opinion with Respect to the goodness of the Indorsers of\n                            the notes and If he is not fully Persuaided they are safe I will Git Mr Smith to add others\n                        James wilks went on In the Vessel which Took your goods. I am with the Greatest\n                            Respect Sir your Hume Sert", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00013", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 18 November 1796\nFrom: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        We the Commissioners of the City of Washington, with the greatest respect,\n                            represent to the President of the United States,\n                        That, recurring, with much Satisfaction, to his Speech to both Houses of\n                            Congress, soon after the Commencement of the Columbian Government, in which he very\n                            earnestly recommended a particular Attention to, and a provision for, the Education of the\n                        That, having at various times since our Appointment been honored with a\n                            free personal Communication of his Sentiments on this interesting Subject, \n                        That, having by Letter on the 28th of January 1795 received his Opinions\n                            more at large, in which \"he regrets that the youth of the United States should be sent to\n                            foreign Countries for the purpose of Education, \"where, though\n                            doubtless many under these circumstances escape the danger of contracting\n                            principles unfriendly to republican Government; yet we ought to appreciate the hazard\n                            attending ardent & susceptible Minds from.\n                        We are induced to offer our Sentiments in favour of appointing proper persons\n                            to receive the Donations of the Patrons of Science & Learning\u2014towards the\n                            establishment of a grand National University in the City of Washington\n                            towards the advancement of the same; and for the promotion with the\n                            laudable Intentions contemplated by the , in such a way as to the\n                            President of the United States shall seem meet.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00014", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Deakins, Jr., 18 November 1796\nFrom: Deakins, William, Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I have received your much Esteem\u2019d favor of the 14th Instant with a letter for\n                            my Brother which shall be forwarded. he has gain\u2019d his Election by a Majority of 347 Votes.\n                            In my Journey to the Glades last August I engaged 20 Bushels of Oats to\n                            be delivered to Major McCarty at the Mouth of New Creek by the first Instant. & I\n                            have Wrote McCarty they were for you & requested him to have them sent down by his Boats this Fall, & I have hopes they will come to hand. I am with much Respect & Esteem Dear Sir Your Obt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00015", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 19 November 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I duly received your letter of the 12th instant. My avocations have not\n                            permitted me sooner to comply with your desire. I have looked over the papers &\n                            suggested alterations & corrections; and I have also numbered the paragraphs I. II.\n                            III &c. in the order in which it appears to me eligible they should stand in the\n                        I thought upon full reflection you could not avoid an allusion to your retreat\n                            in order to express your sense of the support of Congress\u2014but that the simplest manner of\n                            doing it was to be preferred. A paragraph is offered accordingly.\n                        I believe the commencement of a Navy ought to be contemplated\u2014Our fiscal\n                            concerns if Congress please can easily be rendered efficient. If not tis their fault\n                            & ought not to prevent any suggestion which the interest of the Country may require.\n                            The Paragraph in your letter respecting our Mediterranean Commerce may well be incorporated\n                            in this part of the communication.\n                        You will observe a paragraph I have framed contemplates a full future\n                            communication of our Situation with France\u2014At present it seems to me that this will best be\n                            effected in the following mode.\n                        Let a full reply to Mr Adets last communication be made containing a particular\n                            review of our conduct & motives from the commencement of the Revolution\u2014Let this be\n                            sent to Mr Pinckney to be imparted to the Directory & let a copy of it with a short\n                            auxiliary statement of facts if necessary be sent to the House of Representatives. As Mr\n                            Adet has suspended his functions I presume no reply can be made to him; but not having seen\n                        The crisis is immensely important to the glory of the President & to\n                            the honor & interest of the Country. It is all important that the Reply to Adets\n                            last communication to whomsoever made should be managed with the utmost possible prudence\n                            & skill\u2014so that it may be a solid justification\u2014an inoffensive remonstrance\u2014the\n                            expression of a dignified seriousness reluctant to quarrel but resolved not to be humbled.\n                            The subject excites the greatest anxiety. I have the honor to be very respectfully &", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00016", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 19 November 1796\nFrom: Morris, Robert\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Mr D. Russell of Boston, son of the late Thos Russell Esqre, has requested me\n                            to present the Book sent herewith to you in his Name which I do with pleasure as I respected\n                            & esteemed the deceased very much. With great Respect & Regard I am Yrs", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00018", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 20 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n                        Your Letter of the 13th inst., and the Reports of the preceeding week; were\n                        I am sorry to hear that the growing Wheat is suffering for want of Rain\u2014but\n                            hope you had some on Tuesday last (three days subsequent to the date of your letter). If the\n                            fact however is otherwise, let the ground in which the Egyptian Wheat was deposited, be\n                            watered, & continu\u2019d to be so until the Rains fall.\n                        I had no doubt but that the Causey through the Swamp would prove a pretty heavy\n                            job to execute the work in the manner I proposed; but when so done\u2014I shall have no plague\n                            with it thereafter, and the other part will be much less tedious and labourious. To form a\n                            judgment however of this matter, when the Causey is completed, work onwards towards the\n                            Mansion until you cross (or rather come to) the intended road leading from Muddy hole Barn.\n                            Working thus far as it will pass through as grubby ground as any there is in the whole road,\n                            you will be able to form a judgment of the time necessary for the completion of the whole;\n                            and besides, after this junction is formed, there can be no mistake afterwards. Let Davy\n                            know, & Mr Anderson also, that where the Road turns on the top of the Hill (south of\n                            the Causey) the fence is to turn also; and run with the road until it strikes the line of\n                            the other fence, in which the Gate stands; which fence is to be continued streight until the\n                            two meet, by the side of the Road.\n                        I expected the line of the Road, when extended back to the River, would have\n                            struck it nearer to Hell hole, by several hundred yards, than where Cupids house stood. What\n                            sort of ground does it go over? and, if you can form a judgment from your present view of it,\n                            would the River, or Vessels passing thereon be seen in travelling along it from the Causey\n                        I had no idea that Oznabrigs was scarce in Alexandria after the great\n                            Importations we had heard of, or that the price cd have been so high. I will make enquiry\n                            into these matters here, & inform you of the result in my next; as I shall also do\n                            abt Paints & Oil; but when you spoke of White Lead ground in Oil being 24/ pr Keg,\n                            you ought to have mentioned what the Keg contained, as they are of various sizes from 25 to\n                        As Mr Lear is very frequently at his farm, I wish you would consult him with\n                            respect to Mr Alexr Smiths circumstances; and the best mode of having the sum he owes me,\n                            and the payments, according to my last to you, perfectly secured.\n                            I can run no risks in this matter; the sum is too large to be trifled with; and I am not one\n                            of those who place implicit confidence in strong assurances, or in outward appearances,\n                            unless they are corroborated by corresponding actions. You might, at the sametime, advise\n                            with him on the prices of Oznabrigs\u2014Paints\u2014Oil\u2014Nails &ca that I may decide in time\n                            whether to provide them here\u2014or in that quarter.\n                        I presume Mrs Washington\u2019s Bed Chamber is the same pitch of the other rooms on\n                            that floor\u2014but that I may be certain of it, I wish you would measure the height from the\n                            floor to the Cieling and inform me thereof. I request also that you wd let me know the exact width, and height (in front of the fire place) of the\n                            Chimney in the New dining Room, that, if I should want to get a stopper\n                            (or chimney board) for it, as in some of the other rooms, I may be at no loss to fit one to\n                            it. and with respect to the Cellar windows at the South end of the Mansion house, I did not,\n                            in my former request, describe, clearly, what I wanted\u2014which was, to know how far it was\n                            from the top of the frame which is about the level of the brick pavement and projecting into\n                            it without, to the top\u2014or within an inch of the top of the window frame. This, & not\n                            the whole size of the frame, I wish now to know. Is the 2 f.\u20137 1/2 I. width, and 1 f.\u20132 I.\n                            height of the Cellar windows in front\u2014the dimensions of the frame from out to out of it\u2014or\n                            from in, to in? Are the Stone Cills, at bottom of these window frames, wider than the wood\n                            frames thereon? And how much?\n                        Order Peter to take good care of the three young (as well as the three\n                            covering) Jacks this Winter; and to feed them in such a manner as to keep them in very\n                            thriving order, that I may turn them to a good Account hereafter. I am Your friend\n                            P.S. Let me know the size of the blue Parlour\u2014that is the length and\n                                breadth of it\u2014and how far it is from the hearth on each side to the sides of the Room\n                                that the size of the hearth may be taken out of the Carpet as it now\n                                is with the . The dimensions of the 4 sides must be sent", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00019", "content": "Title: Authorization to Borrow Money from Maryland, 21 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George,Pickering, Timothy\nTo: \n                        Be it known to all persons to whom these presents shall come, that I, George\n                            Washington, President of the United States of America, have authorised and empowered, and by\n                            this present writing do authorise and empower, Gustavus Scott, William Thornton and\n                            Alexander White, commissioners appointed by virtue of an act of congress, entitled, An act\n                            for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of the government of the United States, or\n                            their successors in office, or any two of them, by themselves, or their attorney or\n                            attornies, agent or agents, duly empowered for that purpose, to borrow of the state of\n                            Maryland, for the purpose of erecting the buildings authorised by the act of congress above\n                            mentioned, a sum not exceeding one hundred and fifty thousand dollars, on the terms\n                            authorised by an act of congress, entitled, An act authorising a loan for the use of the\n                            city of Washington, in the district of Columbia, or on such other terms as the said\n                            commissioners, or their successors, or any two of them, may judge reasonable, provided no\n                            higher or greater interest than at the rate of six per cent. per annum shall be allowed, and\n                            no longer term stipulated for the repayment of the sums borrowed, than that expressed in the\n                            last mentioned act of congress for the repayment of monies borrowed under the said act. And\n                            I do declare, that the stock of the United States bearing a present interest of six per\n                            cent.. per annum, may be received on such loans as specie, at par.\n                        In witness whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name, and caused the seal of\n                            the United States to be affixed, at Philadelphia, this twenty-first day of November, in the\n                            year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety-six.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00020", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 21 November 1796\nFrom: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        We do ourselves the honor of inclosing a Memorial concerning the intended\n                            University, about which, you expressed a desire to receive some documents, which, if judged\n                            proper, might be laid before Congress\u2014The one inclosed, has been drawn up with a view to\n                            that object; and the authors of it will feel the highest gratification, if it in any degree\n                            brings about the commencement of this great National object. The arguments for passing a\n                            Loan appear to be so reasonable that it is impossible to suppose the measure can meet with\n                            opposition\u2014Congress surely may, whilst the law is under their own controul, avoid any ways,\n                            committing themselves, for its completion\u2014It certainly would have a very powerfull effect\n                            towards creating a general confidence: if even the smallest public donation was made to the\n                            institution\u2014A few thousand acres of back-lands, now of little value, would add weight to the\n                            solicitations of our friends abroad: and although these Lands are already pledged for public\n                            purposes, a grant of them, subject to this burthen would have every good effect, flowing\n                            from a grant of Lands entirely clear\u2014Many years must elapse before any Lands which congress\n                            will grant, can be productive of useful revenue, except by a Sale, & that ought, we\n                            think to be prohibited by the very act of grant.\n                        Some difficulties have occurred in the last negotiation for $32,000 which\n                            Messrs Morris & Nicholson have been carrying on with the Bank\u2014Things, however, are\n                            now so far adjusted as to bid fare to be brought to a successful conclusion, on Thursday\n                            next\u2014In that case, our remaining debt of $32,000 due to the Bank, will be transferred to\n                            these gentlemen, and we shall be cleared of all demands from that quarter. Our Letter,\n                            however, to the Secretary of the Treasury, now preparing to inclose the semiannual account,\n                            directed to be laid before Congress, will give so full a detail of our finances, that it is\n                            now unnecessary to go into them, further, than to observe, that without some effectual aid,\n                            we shall, in a few weeks, be obliged to stop. The power, therefore, to negotiate with the\n                            State of Maryland cannot come on too soon\u2014What success it will be attended with, we cannot\n                            pretend to say, as we did not choose to enter into the business, until the arrival of the\n                        The inclosed copy of a Letter from George Walker & advertisement,\n                            inserted by him, in the City-Gazette, are forwarded, because we wish every thing said\n                            against us, to be known, from whatever quarter it comes\u2014We shall forbear saying more of his\n                            pretended ground of complaint, than that the conduct pursued respecting Walkers property,\n                            has been precisely the same with that observed to every other proprietor, and submitted to,\n                            as far as we know, without a murmur\u2014We have the honor &c.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00021", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Gustavus Scott, 21 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William\n                        Your letter of the 11th Instant has been duly received. The altered One to\n                            Messrs Wilhem, and Ian Willink has been forwarded to its address, and the former is herewith\n                        Your application to the Bank of the United States for the loan of money,\n                            having failed (as I presume the Secretary of the Treasury has informed you, and as I had\n                            always supposed would be the case) I have executed the Power which was sent to me\n                            authorising a similar application to the Legislature of Maryland. and hope, if made, that it\n                            will be attended with better success. I advise the retention of it however, a few days,\n                            until you hear from Mr Wolcott the result of his soundings of a Mr Hope (of the House of\n                            Hope, late of Amsterdam) who is just arrived in this City; and of whom it is supposed money might be obtained. With great esteem I am\n                            Gentlemen Your Obedient Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00024", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gerardo Joseph de Souza, 22 November 1796\nFrom: Souza, Gerardo Joseph de\nTo: Washington, George\n                            Tripoly de Berberia 22. de Noviembre de 1796\n                        Dandome motivo el Dey de Angel con su Carta de 8 de octubre proximo pasado\n                            que me fue entregada en primero del de la fecha por el Capitan Obrien,\n                            que dho dia fundi\u00f3 en este Puerto, para que cooperase con mis oficios afin de persuadir a\n                            este Baxa combienese en otorgar la Paz con los Illes. Estados Americanos, segun las\n                            proposiciones de a quel Principe; la felicidad de haverse concluido este importante Asunto\n                            segun aquel detalle, y conforme los deseos del Comisionado Obrien; parece que tambien me lo\n                            d\u00e1 para dar A. V.Sr Exa. La Enhorabuena de esta satisfacion, seguro de\n                            que la tendr\u00e1 muy completa por el resultado beneficio que como Padre Comun de sus Patricios\n                            Ve sobre sus intereces. Proporcionalmte merece Con toda Justicia el mas\n                            digno louvor la Conducta, providad, y Patriotismo de Ricardo Obrien: que conducido del\n                            paternal Amor de su Patria, nos deja memorias perpetuas de las mas sanas Virtudes, en\n                        En consequencia detodo, devendose apoyar con la posible estos honrados\n                                sentimtos me preguntaso aque quedase en mi compa\u00f1ia el Encargado\n                                interinamte de los Negocios de V. Nacion, el Capitan Ingraham que me\n                                recomendo Mr Joel Barlou Consul de los Illes. Estados en Argel, con su carta de ique\n                        A la penetracion de V. Ex no se oculta que tanto se necesita la\n                            conservasion de esta Paz, quanto fue Ardua la conpresa de consequirla: a\n                            cuyo grande concepto tendra el correspondiente lugar la instruccion adjunta que se encamina\n                            a quellos fines, y el sobre dho obrien me asegura recogio de persona inteligente, como en\n                            verdad de ella se de muestra. Con esta lisongera Causa tengo el honor de ofrecerme a las ordenes\n                            de V Exa., certificandole, que en quanto se sirva des pensarmelas, seran exactamente\n                            obedecidas, conforme a los deseos de obtenerlas. \n                        Mientras Ruego a Dios Gue A. V. Exa. con los mayores", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00025", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Daniel Jones, 23 November 1796\nFrom: Jones, Daniel\nTo: Washington, George\n                        After having devoted the choicest years of your life as a free will offering in\n                            the service of your country, the period is now arrived in which you have seen fit to\n                            relinquish all your public functions; and to resolve that the remnant of your days shall be\n                            occupied among the sweets of domestic retirement. As this determination appears to be the\n                            result of deliberate judgment, and not the capricious effect of immature thought, your\n                            fellow citizens are constrained to submit, many of them with painful reluctance, to this\n                            your final decession from public office.\n                        Among the number of these the author of this letter reckons it an honor to be\n                            enroled. And though he does not presume to imagin that the opinions of an obscure individual\n                            resideing at the distance of a hundred miles west of Philadelphia, can augment or deminish\n                            your fame, he begs leave to tender you his warmest and most explicit thanks, for the many\n                            great and precious blessings which, as the chosen instrument of heaven, you have procured\n                        The practical influence of these blessings, however seldom it is noticed by\n                            some, is nevertheless so substantially enjoyed by all your fellow citizens, that, in his\n                            opinion, it is their individual duty explicitly to acknowledge it. He even thinks this duty\n                            indispensible; and therefore takes the liberty to assure you, Sir, that, in subordination to\n                            the supreme governance of heaven, he considers himself and family your debtors for his\n                            little temporal all, and even recognises your name as if it were actually inscribed on all\n                        With pleasing assiduity he endeavours to persuade his children to embrace his\n                            sentiment; and among the means made use of for this purpose, he has presumed to call his\n                            youngest child, a boy of four years of age, Washington, that, by a frequent repetition of\n                            the name, the memory of your virtues and services may be kept alive in their bosoms. Suffer him\n                            to express a wish that with your name, this child may also inherit your virtues. Your memory\n                            shall then be perpetuated in his family, not merely by the reiteration of an empty sound,\n                            but by the good effects of those amiable quallities, which, alone, have placed your character\n                            so high in the estimation of their father.\n                        Imagin not, Good Sir, that these are the dictates of impertinent adulation; or\n                            even the more pardonable effusions of intemperate enthusiasm. They are the irresistible\n                            ebullitions of a heart that scorns to give flattering titles to any man; and that would, if\n                            it could, teach every citizen of the United States to love you as much, and as sincerely, as\n                        He laments that any of his fellow citizens have embraced contrary sentiments:\n                            especially that they have caused the press to disgorge a torrent of the most indigested, and\n                            therefore most offensive abuse, against the purity of your intentions, as well as against the\n                            wisdom of your administration. He hopes, however, that this illiberal conduct is not the\n                            genuine growth of an american mind; and that however such persons may have\n                            been led astray by selfish motives, or foreign influence, time and cool reflection will\n                            correct the error: at least that it will illegible\n                             with respect to its authors though perhaps the wounds which they have crually\n                            inflicted on your feelings, as a man, may not in every instance, be\n                        Be this as it may he has not a doubt that conscious integrity does, and ever\n                            will, shield you against the mortal venom of such unprovoked attacks. How\n                            comfortable, Worthy Sir, at all times, is the reflection, and especially now you are about\n                            to close the service of so many useful years, that you are amenable for\n                            your conduct to another and a better Judge than a creature of yesterday,\n                            whose eye is often jaundiced with malevolent passions, and whose opinions, from the very\n                            nature of its constitution is necessarily adjusted by the unstable rule\n                            of external appearance, a Judge who is incapable of being influenced by any bple, and who can, and actually does, look into all the naked recesses of\n                            the heart\u2014a Judge in whose benevolent eye,  intentions supply the\n                            place of fortunate deeds, and with whom well meant endeavours will ever\n                            find the same acceptance as the most successful actions.\n                        May the presence and approbation of this best of friends and most impartial of\n                            Judges, be the constant companion of your declineing years and when your\n                            heart and flesh shall fail may they be the joy of your heart  and your\n                            portion forever. With reitterated gratitude and affection believe me to be Worthy Sir your\n                            highly obliged Fellow Citizen", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00026", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Daniel Jones, 24 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Jones, Daniel\n                        I beg of you to accept my thanks for the favourable Sentiments you have been\n                            pleased to express for me in your letter of yesterday\u2019s date.\n                        Whether the approbation of my past Services proceeds from public bodies, or\n                            individual citizens, it cannot, at the moment I am about to close the scene of political\n                            life be otherwise than agreeable & consoling. In this light I\n                            consider your address, and request you to be assured of the sensibility\n                            with which the sentiments contained in it,, are received by Sir Your Obedt Hble Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00027", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Judith Sargent Stevens Murray, 24 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Murray, Judith Sargent Stevens\n                        The letter with which you were pleased to honor me\u2014dated the 5th instant, came\n                            duly to hand, and is entitled to my grateful acknowledgments for the favourable sentiments\n                            your partiality has led you to express for me; and for the services I have endeavoured to\n                            render our common country.\n                        I wish both were more deserving of the eulogium you have bestowed thereon.\n                        Mrs Washington adds her name to mine as a Subscriber to your works, and with\n                            Miss Custis (who is with us) unites in best wishes for the success of it and for your\n                            personal happiness with Madam Your most Obedt and very Hble Servt\n                            P.S. Enclosed is a five Dollar Bank note on acct of the Subscription.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00028", "content": "Title: From George Washington Craik to John Stiles, 24 November 1796\nFrom: Craik, George Washington\nTo: Stiles, John\n                        I am directed by the President of the United States to acknowledge the receipt\n                            of your letter of the 8th of October. For the favourable sentiments you have therein been\n                            pleased to express for him, he offers you his thanks. To receive the approbation of his\n                            fellow Citizens at a time when he is about to retire from public service is a circumstance\n                            truly gratifying; and that not less so when expressed by an individual Citizen. I am Sir", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00029", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 25 November 1796\nFrom: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        We do ourselves the honor of inclosing, a Letter received from Mr Covachichi,\n                            one of the partners of Messrs Lynch & Sands in the late purchase from\n                            Bailey\u2014Wishing, ardently, to preserve harmony among all City proprietors, we have paid the\n                            earliest attention to this gentleman\u2019s Letter\u2014A copy of our Letter to him, and an Extract\n                            from the contract of Morris & Greenleaf, alluded to, by Mr Covachichi, are also\n                            inclosed\u2014We forbear to make any observations on this Subject\u2014We are making the necessary\n                            arrangements for negotiating a Loan at Annapolis, that the business may be set on foot as\n                            soon as we hear from you\u2014The Session is already far advanced, and we think, much longer delay\n                            may be injurious to the success of the application\u2014We are &c.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00030", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Tobias Lear, 25 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lear, Tobias\n                        Your letter of the 20th instt was received yesterday, and the principal design\n                            of this is to cover the copy of a letter from Mr Van Vleck to me, respecting the reception\n                            of Maria at the School for young Ladies in Bethleham. It will be necessary for you to fix\n                            (for I presume it will be necessary that Mr Van Vleck should know) precisely, when she will\n                            enter; for as he is pressed by others, and receiving Maria may be considered as a favour (at\n                            this time) I would wish the matter to be regulated with punctuality.\n                        As you, and Mr Pearce both, seems to think that the Security offered by Mr\n                            Alexr Smith is, under present appearances, good, I will not now,\n                            ask for any other, but as it may be in your way to discover without much enquiry or trouble,\n                            how matters work in Alexandria before March; I would thank you for advice, if, in your\n                            judgment, it shd become expedient for me to resort to further means for the security of the\n                            sum which will be due to me at that time from him.\n                        I am sorry to hear your crop of Wheat turned out so indifferently\u2014mine I expect\n                            will be, proportionably, no better. But all these things only serve as evidences to convince\n                            me, that if we were to reduce our cultivation, or rather grounds, to half the present\n                            quantity, and manure & till that half well, that our profits would be greater; while\n                            the other half would be improving. But this is a subject too copious for my present\n                            occupations, to allow time to enter upon: and therefore I will add nothing further at this\n                            time than that the family are all (except Mr Frestal) well, & unite in best wishes\n                            for you & yours, with Dear Sir Your Sincere friend & affectionate Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00031", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Cosens Ogden, 26 November 1796\nFrom: Ogden, John Cosens\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I know not what apology to make for writing this, nor where to begin. So many\n                            disagreeable events crowd upon the mind, when I recollect the causes, which have conspired to\n                            produce misery to a venerable Lady, that I should be forever silent, on the subject, did not\n                            humanity for suffering virtue direct me to proceed.\n                        Madam Wooster, at a time of life when the infirmities of age are taking fast\n                            and deep root, is without any other support, than such as the good will of her friends may\n                            afford. A long series of unavoidable occurrences, have done this. Industrious, economical and\n                            frugal during her whole life, the events of war, such as taxes, deprivation of public\n                            securities, delayed public justice as to her half pay, and the falling of the value of her\n                            real estate, joined to eighteen years destitution of any considerable annual income, and the\n                            plundering by the British army, have swept away her patrimony.\n                        The last property she held was a farm, whose income was scarcely a competency\n                            for her sustenance from year to year; this has been taken from her, and sold to satisfy a\n                            demand of Colol Talmage, the President of the order of the Cincinnati in Connecticut. By art\n                            and persuasion he led her to become security for her son, in his absence, and without his\n                            knowledge or consent, for a property which was totally useless to her son. Colol Talmage\n                            after this insisted upon a mortgage, and, then, by the regular process of courts, disposed\n                            of her farm by execution. This property she always held so dear and sacred, that when she once\n                            before embarked for her son, upon the expectation of his half pay, she suffered Genl\n                            Parsons, to cast her into the common prison rather than give it up to him. She informed Colol\n                            Talmage, that it was her all. But the address and severrity of this officer, who was\n                            young in years, when Genl Wooster was old in public services, have taken it from her. A\n                            man of great wealth obtained by speculation consequent upon that loss of life and\n                            fortune, which General Wooster experienced by his valor & patriotism has done this,\n                        The daughter of President Clap, one of the first ornaments and greatest\n                            benefactors to literature, is thus cast upon the good will of a too hard hearted world. The\n                            Widow of a General Officer is now made the subject of that bounty and charity, which, I\n                            trust, all who embarked with him in the war and revolution will gladly bestow.\n                        General Wooster had not returned from his expedition into Canada, before he was\n                            ruined in his fortune. His British half pay was then forfeited. Governor Trumbull had given\n                            the naval office to another, and Vermont had deprived him of his military lands.\n                            Notwithstanding this, he continued in the service, and bravely lost his life, leaving sorrow\n                            & misery to his family for eighteen years. We have enjoyed no public places. I never\n                            sought for one. My incomes for several years have been too small to enable me to provide\n                            fully for my family. By their united industry, economy, retirement from company and\n                            society, they have hither to preserved themselves from distress. By these means their\n                            venerable parent Madam Wooster shares with them in their comforts, and is preserved from\n                            wretchedness. If in the distribution of your alms, Your Excellency should extend your care\n                            and bounty in a small degree to that aged Lady whom I now mention with diffidence and\n                            reluctance, your Excellency will bestow a favor upon one who wants but little, and will not\n                        Her sons errors or misfortunes have been blameably exaggerated to the great\n                            injury of his mother, his family and himself. Too sanguine, too unsuspecting of the honor\n                            and integrity of others. Depending upon handsome patrimonial expectations, and the gratitude\n                            and justice of the public to his fathers memory and the family, he has been plunged into\n                            trouble wantonly, and needlessly . A Mother\u2019s prudence was not proof against the\n                            calls of young dependants and the idol of her fathers and husband hearts. Such was her\n                            son with these two illustrious Characters. I have the honor to be Your Excellencys devoted", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00032", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Gustavus Scott, 27 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William\n                        Your letter of the 21st instant, with its enclosures, came duly to hand;\n                            previous to which, I had dispatched the Power, authorising an application to the Legislature\n                            of Maryland, for the loan of money; accompanying it, however, with a request that, it might\n                            not be carried into operation until you should have learnt the result of an application\n                            contemplated to be made by the Secretary of the Treasury to a Mr Hope of Amsterdam. This\n                            application has been made; the result was to be known to day; and by the Mail of tomorrow\n                            you are to be informed thereof, So says Mr Wolcott to me.\n                        The Memorial, relative to the Establishment of a University in the Federal\n                            City, I shall retain until the meeting of Congress, and then dispose of it as circumstances\n                        The dissensions, & controversies which so frequently happen in that\n                            City, are extremely to be regretted; and nothing, I am persuaded, will contribute more to\n                            appease them, and to remove the jealousies which, without, will forever exist, than the\n                            residence of the Commissioners within the City; for which reason I do, in behalf of the\n                            public, give it as my decided opinion that they ought, and as my expectation that they will,\n                            remove into it, before the building operations of the ensuing year commences. It would, I\n                            conceive, be submitting to a novel doctrine, to have the Commissioners of any City non-residents thereof, How much greater then must it be\n                            in one, where there are such a variety of objects to attend to? and such incessant calls\n                            upon their activity? I am persuaded, that upon due consideration of the decisive opinion\n                            (only the repetition of a former one) now given, you will, equally with others, see the\n                            propriety of enforcing it; as well for the purpose of answering the public expectation,\n                            & causing Jealousies to subside, as from the intrinsic benefits which must result\n                            from the measure, in many points of view.\n                        Mr Walkers attack, appears to me to be as impolitic, as it is indecent and\n                            intemperate; but as the issue of Indictments (as far as my observations have gone) have not\n                            often answered the ends of the prosecution, I thought it expedient to require the opinion of\n                            the Attorney General of the United States on the question you propounded to me; enclosed is\n                            the copy of it. Having done so, I submit the course to be pursued to your own judgments. To\n                            prosecute in this City, if Mr Walker has become a Resident of it,\n                            would, I presume, be duly considered before it is undertaken. With very great esteem\n                            & regard I am\u2014Gentlemen Your Obedt Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00034", "content": "Title: From George Washington to George Washington Parke Custis, 28 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Custis, George Washington Parke\n                        In a few hasty lines, covering your Sister\u2019s letter and a comb on Saturday\n                            last, I promised to write more fully to you by the Post of this day. I am now in the act of\n                            performing that promise.\n                        The assurances you give me of applying diligently to your studies, and\n                            fulfilling those obligations which are enjoined by your creator and due to his creatures,\n                            are highly pleasing and satisfactory to me. I rejoice in it on two accounts; first, as it is\n                            the sure means of laying the foundation of your own happiness, and rendering you (if it\n                            should please God to spare your life) a useful member of Society hereafter; and second, that\n                            I may, if I live to enjoy the pleasure, reflect that I have been in some degree instrumental\n                            in effecting these purposes.\n                        You are now entering into that stage of life when good, or bad habits are\n                            formed: when the mind will be turned to things useful &\n                            praiseworthy, or to dissipation and vice. Fix on whichever it may, it will stick by you; for\n                            you know it has been said and truly, \"that as the twig is bent, so it will grow\" This, in a\n                            strong point of view shews the propriety of letting your inexperience be directed by\n                            maturer advice; and in placing guards upon the avenues which lead to idleness and vice. The\n                            latter, will approach like a thief, working upon your passions; encouraged perhaps by bad\n                            examples; the propensity to wch, will increase in proportion to the practice of it and your\n                            yieldings. This admonition proceeds from the purest affection for you but I do not mean by\n                            it, that you are to become a Stoic, or to deprive yourself in the intervals of study of any\n                            recreation, or manly exercise, which reason approves.\n                        \u2019Tis well to be on good terms with all your fellow students, and I am pleased\n                            to hear you are so; but while a courteous behaviour is due to all, select the most deserving\n                            only for your friendships, and before this becomes intimate, weigh their dispositions\n                            & character well. True friendship is a plant of slow growth; to be sincere there\n                            must be a congeniality of temper & pursuits. Virtue & vice cannot be allied;\n                            nor can industry and idleness; of course, if you resolve to adhere to the two former of\n                            these extremes, an intimacy with those who incline to the latter of them, would be extremely\n                            embarrassing to you; it would be a stumbling block in your way; and act like a Millstone hung\n                            to your neck: for it is the nature of idleness & vice to Obtain as many votaries as\n                        I would guard you too against imbibing hasty, & unfavourable\n                            impressions of any one: let your judgment always balance well, before you decide; and even\n                            then, where there is no occasion for expressing an opinion, it is best to be silent; for\n                            there is nothing more certain than that it is, at all times, more easy to make enemies, than\n                            friends. And besides, to speak evil of any one, unless there is unequivocal proofs of their deserving it, is an injury for which there is\n                            no adequate reparation; for as Shakespear says\u2014\"he that robs me of my good name, enriches\n                            not himself, but renders me poor indeed\"\u2014or words to that effect.\n                        I have said thus much, before I mention any thing relative to the unpleasant\n                            situation you seem to be placed in with Mr . This character as you must believe could only be known to me from report; and that Report\n                            was received from Doctr Smith, who could have had no interest in making an erroneous one;\n                            nor is it likely he could have been deceived in the literary abilities, if he had been so in\n                            the moral character, of that young man. If however you are not likely to receive any benefit\n                            from being in the same Chamber with Mr  (which was the great object\n                            with me) or feel any particular inconvenience from having two others (instead of one, as is\n                            usual) in the same room with you, and above all, if you perceive any thing indecent, or\n                            immoral in his conduct, & will repeat to me your wish to be removed, I will write to the\n                            President of the College requesting him to do it accordingly; but remember I must give the\n                            reasons with which you furnish me, and that these, to avoid the imputation of whim, or\n                        Keep another thing also in mind, that scarcely any change would be agreeable to\n                            you at first from the sudden transition, & from never\n                            having been accustomed to shift or rough it. and moreover, that if you meet with Collegiate\n                            fare, it will be unmanly to complain\u2014My paper reminds me that it is time to conclude which I\n                            P.S. I presume you received my letter covering a ten dollar Bill, to pay\n                                for your Gown &ca although it is not mentioned\u2014to acknowledge the rect of\n                                letters is always proper to remove doubts of their miscarriage.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00036", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 28 November 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n                        The Indian Chiefs named Mus-qua-ca-nokan or Red pole, Wey-a-pur-sen-waw, or Blue\n                            Jacket, She-me-kum-ne-sa or soldier, Ase-me-the, and Muc-ca-le-wa-saw or Black chief,\n                            stiling themselves the representatives of the Wyandots, Delawares, Shawanoes Ottawas,\n                            Chipwas, Putawatimes, Miamis, Eel River, Weas, Kickapoos, Piankashaws, and Kaskaskias have\n                            informed the Secretary of War in a talk delivered by Red pole, at the War-Office the 26\n                            inst: that they had come a great way to see their Father the President; that they had long\n                            listened to the British; that they had discovered their error; that they had made peace with\n                            the Fifteen Fires; (meaning the United States), and in future would only listen to their\n                            great Father the President; that they were now waiting till they could hear what advice he\n                            had to give them, which they would follow; and that they would on their part try to keep the\n                            path open between their people, and the people of the United States. That finally, they\n                            wished to hear the President\u2019s advice, as soon as possible, having a great way to go to get\n                        To this Blue Jacket added, that what had been spoken by Red pole was the sense\n                            of all the warriors present. That he rose to mention this, and give a particular proof of\n                            his own sincerity, by delivering to his great Father, the commission he had received a long\n                            time ago from the British; that he now broke it, and would hereafter serve faithfully the\n                        The Secretary of War replied to this talk, that he would communicate what they\n                            had said to the President, and hoped that their father would find leisure to give them his\n                            advice on tuesday next the 29th instant; but that they should be informed more certainly\n                            respecting it, after he had an opportunity to see him.\n                        The Secretary has subjoined certain points, upon which it would appear proper\n                            to offer them advice, all which is respectfully submitted.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00037", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Joseph Whipple, 28 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Whipple, Joseph\n                        Upon my return to this City the latter end of October, after an absence of some\n                            weeks at Mount Vernon, Mr Wolcott presented me with your letter of the 4th of that month.\n                        I regret that the attempt you made to restore the girl (Oney Judge as she\n                            called herself while with us, and who, without the least provocation absconded from her\n                            Mistress) should have been attended with so little success. To enter into such a compromise,\n                            as she has suggested to you, is\n                            totally inadmissible, for reasons that must strike at first view: for however well disposed\n                            I might be to a gradual abolition, or even to an entire emancipation of that description of\n                            People (if the latter was in itself practicable at this Moment) it would neither be politic\n                            or just, to reward unfaithfulness with a premature preference; and thereby discontent,\n                            beforehand, the minds of all her fellow Servants; who by their steady adherence, are far\n                            more deserving than herself, of favor.\n                        I was apprehensive (and so informed Mr Wolcott) that if she had any previous\n                            notice, more than could be avoided, of the intention to send her back, that she would\n                            contrive to elude it; for whatever she may have asserted to the contrary, there is no doubt\n                            in this family, of her having been seduced and enticed off by a Frenchman, who was either\n                            really, or pretendedly deranged; and under that guize, used frequently to introduce himself\n                            into the family; & has never been seen here, since the girl decamped. We have indeed\n                            lately been informed, through other channels, that she did go to\n                            Portsmouth with a Frenchman, who getting tired of her, as is presumed left her, and that\n                            she had betaken herself to the Needle\u2014the use of which she well understood\u2014for a livelihood.\n                        About the epoch I am speaking, she herself was desirous of returning to\n                            Virginia; for when Captn Prescot was on the point of Sailing from Portsmouth for the Federal\n                            City with his family, she offered herself to his Lady as a waiter\u2014told her she had lived\n                            with Mrs Washington (without entering into particulars)\u2014and that she was desirous of getting\n                            back to her native place & friends. Mrs Prescot either from having no occasion for\n                            her services, or presuming that she might have been discarded for improper conduct\n                            (unluckily for Mrs Washington) declined taking her.\n                        If she will return to her former Service, without obliging me to resort to\n                            compulsory means to effect it, her late conduct will be forgiven by her Mistress; and she\n                            will meet with the same treatment from me, that all the rest of her family (which is a very\n                            numerous one) shall receive. If she will not, you would oblige me, by pursuing such measures\n                            as are proper, to put her on board a Vessel bound either to Alexandria or the Federal City;\n                            Directed in either case, to my Manager at Mount Vernon, by the door of which the Vessel must\n                            pass; or to the care of Mr Lear at the last mentioned place, if it should not stop before it\n                        I do not mean however, by this request, that such violent measures should be\n                            used as would excite a mob or riot, which might be the case if she has adherents, or even\n                            uneasy sensations in the minds of well disposed Citizens. rather than either of these shd\n                            happen, I would forego her services altogether; and the example also, which is of infinite\n                            more importance. The less is said before hand, and the more celerity is used in the act of\n                            Shipping her, when an opportunity presents, the better chance Mrs Washington (who is desirous\n                            of receiving her again) will have to be gratified.\n                        We had vastly rather she should be sent to Virginia than brought to this place;\n                            as our stay here will be but short; and as it is not unlikely that she may, from the\n                            circumstance I have mentioned, be in a state of pregnancy. I should be glad to hear from you\n                            on this subject, and am Sir Your Obedt Hble Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00038", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Elias Boudinot, 29 November 1796\nFrom: Boudinot, Elias\nTo: Washington, George\n                            Mint of the United States 29th November, 1796\n                        The Director of the Mint of the United States, respectfully reports to the\n                            President of the United States, on the state of the Mint.\n                        That during the experience of twelve months, he has turned his attention (as\n                            far as has been in his power) to the Institution under his care: He has seen, with regret,\n                            an opinion generally prevailing, that the Establishment is unnecessarily expensive, and less\n                            productive than was rationally expected by its advocates and friends.\n                        The Director, finding some foundation for the charge, has endeavoured to\n                            discover the cause, as nothing appears in the general nature of the institution, to warrant\n                        The issue of the inquiry is, that the extraordinary expenses attending the\n                            mint, are in a great measure owing to its original plan, and the principles on which it was\n                            established. Among others, the whole coinage, including the refinement of the precious\n                            metals, was directed by Law to be executed at the public expence, the Depositor being fully\n                            indemnified from all charges whatever; on this principle, not only the original cost of the\n                            works, and the salaries of the stated officers fall on the public; but also the whole amount\n                            of the workmanship, with the alloy, wastage, & contingent losses.\n                        The want of experimental knowledge in the business at the first establishment\n                            of the mint, prevented any tolerable precise estimate of the expenses necessarily attending\n                            the process; but soon after the commencement of the business, it was found impracticable to\n                            proceed with propriety, unless an addition was made to the establishment, by the appointment\n                        This important and necessary officer, is not known in foreign mints, as the\n                            precious metals are there generally deposited of the proper standard, or above it; or they\n                            are purchased by the mint, and become public property, there being professional refiners\n                            independent of the mints, whose business it is to purify metals under standard; but there\n                            being no such artists in this City who follow the business, it became indispensibly\n                            necessary to execute this service in the mint.\n                        This circumstance was not foreseen, or, if foreseen, was considered as included\n                            in the duties of the assayer; but the necessity of so essential a check on that officer,\n                            forbad this measure, had it been otherwise practicable. This added, considerably, to the\n                            annual expenses of the mint.\n                        Formerly, the Director could not make any charge for this process against\n                            Depositors; the whole expense, therefore, fell on the public. Thus, on assaying one deposit\n                            of about 96,000 oz. of Silver Bullion, it turned out near 24,000 oz. under standard; to\n                            refine which, it cost the United States upwards of \u00a3500; so that the Depositor really gained\n                            that sum, by bringing his bullion to the mint. This operated, very unequally among\n                            Depositors. The citizen who brought Bullion in this debased state to the mint, received as\n                            much coin for the standard silver therein, as he whose Bullion was previously refined equal\n                            to the standard, and ready for coining at a very trifling expense.\n                        Again, the institution of the mint, without any appropriation of Capital,\n                            either to purchase the precious metals in Bullion, anticipate payments due on\n                            deposits, or to coin for the public, has been another cause of very considerable expence:\n                            depending upon Depositors alone for the precious metals, it became necessary, for their\n                            encouragement and satisfaction, to coin every deposit as soon as possible after it came into\n                            the Treasury of the mint, to prevent its remaining unproductive to the Depositor, by which\n                            means the clippings and grains were obliged to be melted and coined as they arose, often\n                            three or four times for one deposit.\n                        Thus, the melting, refining, and coining a deposit of 200 oz. of Silver, or 20\n                            oz of Gold, would cost the public nearly as much as 1,000 oz. of either, and a much greater\n                            proportional wastage; whereas, could the Bullion be purchased for the public at the market\n                            price, and kept in the Vaults till a large quantity might be coined at once, or a capital of\n                            about ten thousand dollars be allowed to the mint, so as to anticipate the payments to\n                            depositors, without being obliged to an immediate coinage on every occasion, a very great\n                            public saving would take place, not only as to the wastage, but in the expenditure of the\n                            materials and labour used in the process, and no injury done to the United States, but in\n                            the loan of the money for a short time. In a word, the difference would be much the same, as\n                            between the wholesale merchant and the Huckster.\n                        This measure would also have a tendency to fix the price of Bullion, and\n                            indemnify the public for some part of the expense of coinage. The only question that would\n                            arise, is whether, on the principles of political Economy, it would be a prudent measure on\n                            the part of Government? Suppose the expenses of coinage, including wastage to be fixed\n                            at 3 \u214c Centum to the depositor, while in foreign countries it costs nothing\u2014The\n                            consequence would be, that bullion in America, might vary its price 3 \u214c Cent, according to\n                            the ballance of trade, while bullion in those countries must be supposed invariable in its\n                            price, let the ballance of trade stand as it will. Bullion, then, in those countries, will\n                            always be at the highest price it ever can be at in America, since it is the price of coin;\n                            but in America it may be 3 \u214c Cent lower. If, therefore, the United States, by coining free\n                            of all expense, contribute to keep the price of bullion higher than it is in countries where\n                            the coinage is paid for, a voluntary expense is created, of which there can be no just\n                        A representation of some of these difficulties, with the dangerous situation of\n                            the mint, for want of protecting Laws to secure the Instruments of coinage, the metals and\n                            the coin, as also to prevent counterfeits, has been heretofore made by the officers of the\n                            mint, with but little other success, than a Resolution of Congress, enabling the Director to\n                            retain the expense of refining the precious metals under standard; but the wastage, alloy,\n                            and coinage, are still dead charges on the public Treasury.\n                        While, therefore, this policy on the whole, is considered as beneficial to the\n                            United States, the complaints against the mint for its heavy expenses to the public, are\n                            without solid foundation, as it is impossible to carry on an institution of this nature,\n                            under these circumstances, and which requires from 15 to 20 workmen and labourers to attend\n                            it, without great expense. Add to this, that the alloy of Silver and Copper, with the loss\n                            by necessary wastage, must unavoidably rise to a considerable annual amount.\n                        But, notwithstanding these and other difficulties attending an infant\n                            institution, especially in the late great advance in the prices of materials and labour, the\n                            aggregate expenses of the Mint are greatly reduced, either from the superior knowledge of\n                            the persons employed, gained by experience, or from new arrangements found to be more\n                            advantageous than those made on the spur of the occasion: This will appear more evident, by\n                            a review of the progressive reduction of the contingent expenses in the quarterly accounts,\n                            rendered into the Treasury Department, and it is hoped that there will be a further progress\n                            in this disirable economy.\n                        When the present Director entered upon the administration of the mint, there\n                            was no appropriation of money for the purchase of copper, for the coinage of Cents. This, he\n                            clearly foresaw, would prove a source of further expence, by often leaving the workmen\n                            without employ. He made application to Congress, by their committee on this subject, but all\n                            that was obtained was thirteen thousand dollars, which was coined into Cents and returned\n                            into the public Treasury, or remitted for the purchase of copper before the rising of\n                            Congress the last Spring. No further appropriation was made, till it was too late to procure\n                            the necessary importation of copper for the Summer\u2019s coinage, whereby much time has been\n                            lost, and some considerable expence of workmen has been added to the summer\u2019s account.\n                        It is now hoped, from the present arrangement, no such inconvenience will arise\n                            hereafter, but a continual and ample supply of copper coinage be produced adequate to the\n                        As the Laws relative to the mint now stand, the officers are obliged to pay to\n                            each Depositor, the coins arising from his deposits, in strict order, and to reserve three\n                            pieces of coin from each mass, yet no appropriation has been made to replace the reserves,\n                            or to make good the wastage. It is, therefore, impossible for the officers of the mint to\n                            comply with the Law, and the Depositors complain of being kept out of their property, till\n                            provision is made by Congress for their relief.\n                        By a number of new half Joannes\u2019s brought to the mint for assaying, said to\n                            have been coined in the United States, it appears that a coinage for that purpose is carried\n                            on in some State in the Union. some of these are found to be under standard in their\n                            quality, and between two and three pennyweights less than their true weight. These are facts\n                            which the Director thinks it his duty to communicate to the President. From the various\n                            experiments made since the establishment of the mint, it is found unnecessary to make use of\n                            Silver in alloying of Gold, unless it is for the purpose of beautifying the coin, in which\n                            case it should be composed at the proportion of one third silver, to two thirds copper.\n                        By the following abstracts of the Bullion and Coin received and issued from the\n                            mint since its first establishment, may be seen, as well the nature of the deposits made, as\n                            the coins returned to the Treasury, and the dates of the receipts and issues to this day,\n                            with the amount of the copper coinage.\n                        From this it appears that there is due for wastage, during that period, the\n                            quantity of fifteen hundred and ninety-nine ounces, sixteen penny weights and fifteen grains\n                            of Silver, equal to eighteen hundred and forty five dollars ninety-five cents and five\n                            mills. Besides a deficit of eight hundred and forty four ounces, seventeen penny weights and\n                            five grains of silver, equal to nine hundred and seventy-four dollars, seventy five cents\n                            and five mills\u2014making, in the whole, two thousand eight hundred and twenty dollars and\n                            seventy one cents, for which an appropriation ought to be made by Law, to satisfy a\n                        The Director thinks it necessary to mention, in exculpation of the former\n                            officers of the mint, that, by a report made on this subject, it appears that there is yet a\n                            considerable quantity of old pots and test bottoms, from which it is expected that nearly\n                            the amount of the deficient silver, as stated above, will be extracted.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00040", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James Montgomery, 29 November 1796\nFrom: Montgomery, James\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I did myself the Honour of transmiting the originals of the Inclosed to you at\n                            your then Residence at Mount Vernon to which I have received no answer through any Channell\n                            whatever the Cutter is now Launched and things remain the same if Mr Secretary Wollcott or\n                            Mr Collector Delany have any thing against me why do they not come froward and explain their\n                            Reasons for the Insult they have given me Perhaps they wait for a New President of the\n                            United States who may not know me for which Reason I solicit your Excellency to know what I\n                            have to Depend on as the Situation I am in at present is so entirely disagreable to my own\n                            feelings and so totally undeserved that I must request an explanation of what appears to me\n                            such unaccountable Conduct on the Part of the Secretary and Collector The Severer the\n                            Scrutiny into every Part of my Official Duty the more Satisfaction will arise to Myself and\n                            I flatter myself the redressing the Injuries of a man who without arrogating undue merit to Himself has certainly a right to assert he has\n                            deserved different Treatment will give Pleasure to your Excellency I have the Honour to be\n                            with every Sentiment of the Highest Respect your Excellency\u2019s most Devoted Humble Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00042", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 30 November 1796\nFrom: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Your Instructions to Messrs Beall & Gantt to convey to us all the Lands\n                            in the City of Washington, vested in them, in trust, by the original proprietors; have been\n                            duly considered, with a reference to carrying the same into effect; in which some\n                            difficulties occur\u2014That part of the Land which is held for the use of the United States, we\n                            consider, as in a very different predicament from those parts which are to be reconveyed to\n                            the original proprietors, or sold, in order to raise money for the purpose of erecting the\n                            Federal buildings\u2014The first ought to be conveyed to the Commissioners for the use of the United States, by virtue of the 3rd Section of the\n                            Act of Congress, intituled, \"An act for establishing the temporary and permanent Seat of the\n                            Government of the United States\"\u2014The others may be conveyed to any person or persons whom\n                            the president shall appoint; and although he has, in this instance, appointed the\n                            Commissioners; yet we conceive the last description of Land must be conveyed to us in our\n                            individual, and not in our official capacity, because, not being a corporation, we cannot\n                            take an estate to hold to us and our Successors\u2014If we are right in this opinion, there\n                            ought to be different conveyances for the different descriptions of Land\u2014The public\n                            property to be conveyed, no doubt, consists of the Streets and Squares delienated on the plan,\n                            but we should hestitate to advise a conveyance from the Trustees to ourselves; agreeably to\n                            the Act of Congress, above-mentioned, without a more explicit and particular declaration\n                            from the President, respecting the Lands to be appropriated; than has hitherto been made\u2014We\n                            presume the plan of the City will enable You to point out the appropriations, with\n                            sufficient accuracy, for the purpose of making such declaration\u2014When this is done, we will\n                            call on the Trustees, for a conveyance agreeably thereto, but as we intimated, in our Letter\n                            of October 1st, that this, being a great national object, we did not wish the completion of\n                            it to rest solely on our opinions; it would Still be agreeable to us to have the direction,\n                            or approbation of the executive, who, we presume, will advise with the Attorney General with\n                            regard to the mode to be pursued, and that the Attorney may be enabled to form an opinion we\n                            have sent a Copy of One of the Deeds of trust.\n                        The vacant spaces which appear on the plan of the City at the intersection of\n                            the Streets and Avenues and which are composed of the Streets themselves and by striking off\n                            the points which those intersections necessarily form, so as to give a degree of regularity\n                            to the adjacent buildings, we have not considered as Squares or parcels appropriated to\n                            public use, but some of the proprietors now insist that they ought to be paid, not only for\n                            the points thus struck off, but for the Streets themselves, so far as they pass through\n                            these vacant Spaces; or that those points should be laid off in building Lots\u2014This\n                            suggested the propriety of running a Street of 150 feet width round each of those spaces and\n                            appropriating the center to public use; which may be enclosed by handsome palisades, be sown\n                            with grass, and ornamented with fountains, Statues &c., to the great embellishment\n                            of the City, when it becomes populous: This, however, we only suggest; but we believe Some\n                            decision of the Executive on the subject, is absolutely necessary to silence clamour, and\n                            perhaps, to prevent litigation\u2014We are extremely sorry, at this momentous crisis to take up\n                            any part of your time on the affairs of the City; but hope that the importance of the\n                            objects of our correspondence may be our apology. With Sentiments of perfect respect, &c.\n                            P.S. A Deed is sent, for want of time to make a Copy; it may be returned,\n                                when perused by the Attorney General.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00043", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Laurance, 30 November 1796\nFrom: Laurance, John\nTo: Washington, George\n                        The Legislature of the State of New York, having appointed me a Senator, to\n                            represent that State in the Senate of the United States, in the Room of Mr King; it has\n                            become necessary, for me, to resign my Office of District Judge of the United States, for\n                            New York District, which I now do; and shall consider myself after this day, as no longer in\n                            that Station. I am With great Respect Your obedt Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00045", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n                        Get a Scythe & cradle from the Eastern shore of Mr Pearce, by wch to\n                            make others for catching the Grain, as cut, in the hand.\n                        See the Letters to Mr Christopher & Mr Jno. Cowper dated the 4th of\n                            Septr 1794 for Informn respg the payment for Norfleets Land.\n                        Also the Letter to Mr Jno. Lewis on the same subject on whom a call is to be\n                        A Letter to the Honble Jas Ross dated 13th Sepr 1794 acknowledges the rect of\n                            \u00a3267 on acct of Colo. Cannons Bond. In a letter to Mr Lear of the 22d Decr 1794 some old Papers relative to\n                            the River Potomack\u2014ask for them.\n                        Colo. John Cannon in a letter written to him the 27th June 1795 is directed to\n                            deliver to Mr Ross, the surveys of all my lands, and entreated to make a final settlement of\n                            matters with Mr Chas Morgan.\n                        Mr Chas Morgan in a letter written to him 28th June 1795 Is requested to press\n                            Colo. Cannon for this settlement & to tell the Tenants that delivering Wheat at his\n                            Mill will not exonerate them from paymt of their Rents.\n                        Wrote on the 14th of Novr 1796 to my Nephew Colo. W. A. Washington for the\n                            Genealogical descent from L. Washington & the Inscriptions on the Tombs at Bridge\n                            Creek without havg recd any Answer\u2014to send to Sir J.H.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00047", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Gustavus Scott, 1 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William\n                        Your letter of the 25th Ulto came to hand on tuesday last, but it was not in my\n                            power to give it an earlier acknowledgement: and now, I must do it without resorting to\n                            papers (to be perfectly correct)\u2014The pressure of my business with the different Departments,\n                            previous to the meeting of Congress; and my own preparation for that event, leave me but\n                            little time to attend to other matters.\n                        The discontents with which you are assailed by one or other of the Proprietors\n                            in the Federal City, must, unquestionably, be very disagreeable & troublesome to\n                            you, for they are extremely irksome to me.\n                        In the case however before us, I conceive Mr Covachichi might have received a\n                            definitive answer, without refering the matter to the Executive. On what part of the\n                            Contract with Greenleaf he has founded an opinion that a site was designated for a\n                            University, and has built his complaint\u2014or how it came to pass that any allusion to such a\n                            measure should have found its way into that Contract, I have no more recollection than I\n                            have a conception, of what could have induced it; for your Clerk has omitted sending the\n                        It is a well known fact, or to say the least, it has been always understood by\n                            me, that the establishment of a University in the Federal City depended upon several\n                            contingencies; one of which, and a material one too\u2014was donations for the purpose. Until\n                            lately, this business could scarcely be said to have advanced beyond the wishes of its advocates, although these wishes were accompanied,\n                            generally, with expressions of what might be expected; and whenever the names of Mr Blodget\n                            and the proprietors of that vicinity, were mentioned in relation to this\n                            business, the idea (expressed or implied) always was\u2014that they meant to give the ground.\n                        Is this the intention of Mr Covachichi relative to the object he is now\n                            contending for? if it is, and a sufficient space of ground, on these terms, can be obtained\n                            there for this purpose, without interfering with the property of Orphans, my opinion is,\n                            that the University ought to be placed there. But, if this is not\n                            the design, can that Gentleman, or any other expect that the public will buy (for an\n                            exchange is a purchase, and may be of the most troublesome kind) when it has unappropriated\n                            ground nearly as convenient? and why do this? because a site has been loosely talked of?\n                            because a proprietor, to enhance the sale of his property has coloured the advantages of it\n                            as highly as he could? or because the purchaser, omitting to investigate matters beforehand,\n                            wants the public to encounter an expence\u2014it is unable to bear\u2014by way of redress for his own\n                            incaution? What would have been the answer of the Commissioners. if he had previously\n                            applied to them, to know if a University would be placed where he is now contending for?\n                            Certainly, that he ought not to calculate upon it. If that would have been the answer then\n                            (and unless there are facts which have escaped my recollection) I can conceive no other\n                            could have been given, it is not inapplicable at present.\n                        A University was not even contemplated by Majr L\u2019Enfant in the plan of the City\n                            which was laid before Congress; taking its origen from another source. This plan you shall\n                            receive by the first safe hand who may be going to the Federal City. By it you may discover\n                            (tho\u2019 almost obliterated) the directions given to the Engrs by Mr Jefferson, with a pencil,\n                            what parts to omit. The principle on which it was done, I have communicated to you on more\n                            occasions than one. With esteem & regard I am\u2014Gentlemen Yr Obedient Servant\n                            P.S. Since writing the foregoing, I have received the extract, omitted to\n                                be enclosed in your letter of the 25th ulto.\n                            I do not recollect ever to have seen, or heard of it before. Nor do I see\n                                any cause to change my opinion since I have done so, unless upon the Condition which is\n                                mentioned in the body of this letter. that is, receiving the ground for the proposed", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00048", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James Madison, 1 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Washington, George\n                        J. Madison presents his respectful compliments to the President &\n                            returns the Treatise on small Canals &c., with his acknowledgments for the perusal of\n                            it. He is not enough conversant with such subjects to decide on the merits of the various\n                            plans & machinery recommended by the Author. In general his principles appear to be\n                            both effective & practicable; but the question of their utility must be decided by a\n                            very accurate comparison of expence & saving, which can not easily be made without\n                            partial experiments at least; and which must vary also in different countries, &\n                            different situations of Society. The author however is certainly entitled to much praise for\n                            his ingenuity & laudable zeal for improvement; and has probably by his work really\n                            contributed to it, either immediately, or by the use that may be made of his ideas by others.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00050", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Tobias Lear, 2 December 1796\nFrom: Lear, Tobias\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Nothing but my absence from home (to which place I returned last Evening) could\n                            have prevented an immediate acknowledgement of your respected & kind favor of the\n                        I am pleased to find, by Mr Van Vleck\u2019s letter (of which you had the goodness\n                            to enclose me a copy) that my Maria can be admitted into the School at Bethleham; and the\n                            time which he mentions for her acception is more agreeable to me than the present; for the\n                            season had advanced so far, that, considering her delicate constitution, I should not have\n                            wished to have hazarded a trip with her so far as Bethleham this winter; I, therefore, took\n                            advantage of the fine roads and have carried her to spend the winter with her Aunt Ball (which\n                            was the cause of my absence from home).\n                        As Mr Van Vleck says he will endeavour to accommodate Maria in two or three\n                            months I presume if she is there by the first of April it will meet the arrangement of the\n                            School, and I can then take her there without her suffering the inconvenience of travelling\n                            in cold or bad weather; but it should be more agreeable to Mr Van Vleck to have her come on\n                            sooner  I will take care she shall be there at any time he will fix. In the mean\n                            time I shall be glad to know the terms of her admission & continuance, as also in\n                            what manner she is to be provided with Clothing &c.\n                        I should feel a greater reluctance than I do, my Dear Sir, in giving you all\n                            this trouble, did I not know that you will feel as much satisfaction in doing good for this\n                            poor little Orphan as I do in having it done. Her situation this winter will not, I trust,\n                            be unprofitable to her. I am much prepossessed in favor of Mrs Ball\u2019s domestic arrangements\n                            respecting her Children, and a tutor in the family will be of great advantage to her. I am\n                            sure she will experience every kind & proper attention; and if a place can be\n                            procured for Colo. Ball\u2019s daughter (who is a very fine girl about a year older than Maria)\n                            at Bethleham in the Spring, they are anxious she should go there also.\n                        I shall certainly attend to the circumstance which you mention respecting Mr\n                            S.\u2019s security and give you due advice if there should appear any reasons for altering it. At\n                            present I should not require better.\n                        I left Maria & Colo. Ball\u2019s family well on tuesday\u2014My mother and the\n                            little boys are in good health and unite in respectful & best wishes for yourself,\n                            Mrs Washington & the family with, My dear Sir, Your grateful & affectionate\n                            P.S. The River has been closed at George Town since sunday last, and bids\n                        \t\t The power of Attorney which I mentioned in my last should have been\n                                prepared & sent on had not my absence from home prevented its being made out. It", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00051", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Arthur St. Clair, 2 December 1796\nFrom: St. Clair, Arthur\nTo: Washington, George\n                         As there is a vacancy in the General Court of the north western Territory from the appointment of General Putnam to the Office of Surveyor General, should you think proper to fill it by a Person residing in that Country, I beg permission to mention to you the name of Joseph Gilman Esquire of Marietta in the County of Washington.\n                            Although he is not a Lawyer by Profession, he is a Man of much general information, of the strictest integrity, and most amiable manners; and is beloved and respected by all who know him  and has ever since General Putnams elevation to that Bench, presided in the Courts of common Pleas and Quarter Session for the County with great dignity, and given universal satisfaction. With the greatest Respect, I have the honor to be Sir, Your obedient Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00052", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 3 December 1796\nFrom: Scott, Gustavus,White, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n                        We are honored with your Letter of 27th Ulto, and on friday, agreeably to your\n                            expectations, we received a Letter from Mr Wolcott, informing of the failure of his\n                            negotiation with Mr Hope\u2014The board therefore, immediately authorised Mr Scott to repair to\n                            Annapolis, and to negotiate a Loan with the Legislature of Maryland, agreeably to the terms\n                            of your act, authorising that measure\u2014On an event So momentous; we conceive nothing ought to\n                            be omitted, which may tend to secure a favorable issue\u2014With that impression on our minds, we,\n                            with great deference, submit the propriety of your addressing the Assembly, on the\n                            Subject\u2014We are of opinion, and we find it is the opinion of the best friends of the City,\n                            that it would have a decided effect, if your interposition is judged expedient, the earlier\n                            the communication of your sentiments is received, by the Legislature, the better, as the\n                            Session will soon be drawing to a close.\n                        We think it of so much consequence, as to induce us to send this Letter by\n                            express, to Baltimore; that a post may be thereby gained\u2014We are with Sentiments &c.\n                            P.S. Doctor Thornton had rode to his farm, before it occurred to the\n                                board to address the President on the subject of the above Letter.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00054", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 3 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: McHenry, James\n                        I have read all the letters of General Wayne, and their enclosures; as I have\n                            also done those of Captn Bruff and others, which you have laid before me. \n                        Note such matters (in all of them) as require particular directions, which I\n                            shall be ready to give whenever they are laid before me.\n                        The other parts, which call only for Office attention, will, I am persuaded,\n                            meet with prompt & ready dispatch. It is my wish to keep the business of the\n                            Departments up, leaving no burthen on my Successor that ought, of right, to be executed", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00055", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Robert Lewis, 4 December 1796\nFrom: Lewis, Robert\nTo: Washington, George\n                            Spring Hill Fauquier County Dec. 4th 1796\n                        As some of your leases which were given for the term of ten years, on the\n                            Goose-Creek tract of Land in the County, will expire the 25th of this month, and as you\n                            seemed undetermined when I was last at Mount Vernon, whether you wou\u2019d let them for a term\n                            as long as in the first instance, or by the year only; I have suspended giving the tenants\n                            in possession any encouragement with respect to new leases, until I shou\u2019d hear from you\u2014It\n                            is my wish to have your opinion on this subject as soon as you can make it convenient. I am\n                            daily importuned by the tenants for some reply. You supposed when we convers\u2019d upon this\n                            business, that as the tenancies which wou\u2019d become vacant this fall, would generally be\n                            improved, and of more value than, when originally let, it was best to rent them by the year\n                            only, if good tenants could be had; This I fear will be a difficult point to accomplish, as\n                            those who are esteemed punctual good men, will not be fixed in a situation of so much\n                            uncertainty, and for the short space of one year; therefore, I am, the more willing to adopt\n                            another opinion (with your concurrance) which you supposed wou\u2019d be equally advantageous,\n                            that is to give a lease for a term not exceeding seven years, with absolute covenant on the\n                            part of the tenant not to sell, waste, or use more timber than what is necessary for\n                            fire-wood and inclosures, and further, that no additional clearings shall be made without\n                            the consent of the Landlord or his agent. Many there are who have cleared every acre they\n                            were entitled to, and many more who have greatly exceeded the limits prescribed in the\n                            leases by cutting into their reserve lands very considerably. I\n                            wou\u2019d also suggest another article that might be added with as much propriety as either of\n                            the former (Viz.) Every tenant shall lay his farm off into three fields, and shall oblige\n                            himself under the forfeiture of his lease, not to cultivate either of those fields more than\n                            once in three years in Indian corn; and moreover, shall agree to sow the same field down in\n                            some kind of small grain, in the course of the year in which the corn shall be made. By this\n                            mode of cultivation your land will improve yearly, and be of far greater value when\n                            surrended by the tenant at the expiration of his lease. Notwithstanding most of them have\n                            tolerable improvements, yet the land is much inferior to what it was formerly, owing to\n                            their mode of cultivation.\n                        They have but two fields which are eternally under tillage, & by this\n                            practice, and on land which is naturally wavy, with a thin soil, the lotts have been so worn\n                            as to supersede the idea of raising the rents, more than thirty shillings per hundred acres;\n                            and this can only be warranted by the prices of all kinds of produce, which are still high\n                            comparing them with former years.\n                        Shortly after my arrival here from Mount Vernon, I applied to Wm Garner (who I\n                            recommended to you as a good house-joiner) but a previous engagement prevented our\n                        I have completed a survey on the land which you were so good as to give me on\n                            Deeprun, and find there will be some part of it disputed, as one Savage a Surveyor sold a\n                            hundred and fifty acres of it to a man by the name of Earl, who sold it to another by the\n                            name of Barber who has had it in possession fifty one years; and I am told by the laws of\n                            this State he is entitled to it by possession; this being the case I have come to a\n                            determination to compromise, and sell him my right; the value of which is to be ascertained\n                            by three disinterested Gentlemen, I find also by my Grandfathers Will that you are entitled\n                            to one half of 4663 acres, and my Uncle Samuel Washington to the other half, which is said\n                            to have been run by Mr Lawrence Washington senior of\n                                Chotank, who claims by purchase from you; as these are circumstances\n                            which you never informed me of, and as the purchasers from Mr Washington\n                            can produce no title from you, nor does their deeds recite how he came by the land; I have thought proper to write to you respecting it, and to beg you\n                            will give me some information more satisfactory than what I can collect from these men. I am\n                            well convinced (unless you were present when these lines run) that fair\n                            play has not been exercised in the division in regard to you: as the lower end of the land\n                            which is claimed by Warner Washington (as a purchaser from my Uncle Samuel) which lies in\n                            the main fork of Deeprun, is worth at least double as much as the upper end which is said to\n                            have been laid off as your part. Again in the division between you and Mr L. Washington\n                            there is no comparisson between the two tracts in regard to their quality. Mrs Lewis unites with me in love to my Aunt\u2014I remain your much obliged and", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00056", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 4 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n                        Getting no letter from you by the Post of yesterday\u2014nor receiving any account\n                            from home, leads me to conclude that something more than common has happened, as your last\n                            letter is dated the 17th of November.\n                        Hearing nothing of the state, in which my business is, for so long a time,\n                            especially too as the weather, for the Season has been severe\u2014I have but little to found my\n                        Enclosed you have a bill of lading, and Invoice of Goods shipped on board of\n                            Captn Ellwood, on my account. Let the Oil & paint be put into some secure Cellar,\n                            there to remain until I come home; And such of the Oznabrigs as is necessary for cloathing\n                            the people (most wanting) to be cut out, and made up as fast as circumstances will permit\u2014In\n                            doing this, I beg every care and attention may be used to prevent waste or embezzlement in\n                            the Act of cutting out; and by taking a list, to be left, of all who are served; otherwise\n                            the same persons, if they thought they could succeed, would apply over and over again. Give\n                            out but one roll of Oznabrigs at a time, & see how that is cut, worked up, and\n                            disposed of, before another piece is delivered. How far  the Gardeners wife, or Allisons\n                            wife is to be depended upon in a business of this sort, I know not; but this I know, it is\n                            as little as either of them can do for the inconvenience I sustain by their living there,\n                            and the attendance they receive from my People.\n                        The enclosed letter to the Gardener, relative to the planting of shrubs, seal\n                            & deliver to him after you have read it; and if such freezing weather should arrive,\n                            before your departure, as I have described, give him all the assistance you can to improve\n                            it; and in case it does not, let Mr Anderson know what my wishes are respecting this matter.\n                            I repeat to you my solicitude to have the Ice house prepared for, & well filled, & rammed, when Ice is formed. It will be of\n                            immense importance to me when I get home.\n                        I hope Frank has taken particular care of the Tarriers. I directed him to\n                            observe when the female was getting into heat, and let her be immediately shut up, and no\n                            other than the male Tarrier get to her. I wish you well, and am Your friend", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00057", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 4 December 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Captain Cathcart\u2019s vessel, laden with stores for Algiers, he expects will sail\n                            to-morrow. The Secretary of State therefore respectfully lays before the President this\n                            evening the draught of a letter to the Dey, and a letter for Mr Barlow. The letter from the\n                            Dey is inclosed; together with the letters from Mr Barlow to which the answer draughted by\n                            the Secretary of State refers. These are too voluminous for a present perusal, entire: but\n                            the Secretary believes his referrences to them are exact.\n                        If the letters to the Dey & Mr Barlow meet the President\u2019s approbation,\n                            the Secretary will be glad to receive them to-morrow morning by nine o\u2019clock, that the\n                            former may be copied fairly for the President\u2019s signature.\n                        The mediterranean passes mentioned by the Dey (or rather the indented margins)\n                            will be forwarded to Mr Barlow, with some entire specimens of the passports.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00058", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Thornton, 5 December 1796\nFrom: Thornton, William,White, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n                        We have the honour of your Letter of the first Instant; the plan of the City\n                            also, came safe to hand. It is with extreme regret that we intrude on your time, which, we\n                            are sensible, is devoted, particularly at this crisis, to the consideration of more important\n                            objects; but the importunity of applicants, renders it indispensably requisite\u2014Mr Covachichi\n                            is gone to Annapolis, when he returns, we shall inform him of your sentiments respecting the\n                            Site of the University\u2014Mr Scott is gone to Annapolis, & Mr White purposes, shortly,\n                            to set out for Virginia, and to remain there, till after New\u2013Year. We are, with sentiments of", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00059", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Bartholomew Dandridge, 5 December 1796\nFrom: Dandridge, Bartholomew\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Your preparations for leaving this City and the period drawing nigh when that\n                            event will take place, reminds me that it is time for me to prepare some plan for myself by\n                            which I may obtain a livelihood after that shall happen; and impels me (tho\u2019 with very great\n                            reluctance) to intrude on your usual indulgence for a moment. And that I may take up as\n                            little of your time as possible, I will briefly state to you the only plans I have yet\n                            contemplated, and beg your advice respecting them. 1st\u2014If you should be disposed to divide\n                            & sell out your lands on the Kanhawa; I would with pleasure do every thing in my\n                            power to promote your advantage in that respect & for this end would\n                            willingly take up my residence at the Kanhawa. In this way I conceive the Land would produce\n                            you more than in any other. I could, I expect, at the same time dispose of some coarse\n                            merchandise to advantage. If you should not think proper to dispose of the lands in this way\u2014perhaps then you would cause a settlement on your\n                            own account to be made on some part of them, to increase their value, & in which I\n                        2dly I have thought of purchasing Goods at this place of the\n                            large wholesale dealers\u2014& sending them to Alexandria to establish a retail store. With\n                            industry & attention, I think this would be profitable.\n                        3dly That which I should most prefer, & wch would be most congenial to\n                            my disposition, would be to obtain the management of some small tenement of your\u2019s, either of\n                            part of the land you had of Mercer, or of any of your\u2019s  in Berkely or Frederic. These are the\n                            outlines of plans on which whatever consideration you are pleased to bestow, will command my\n                            gratitude; and I beg you to accept, Dr Sir my sincere respect &", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00060", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James Maury, 5 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Maury, James\n                        I have received several letters from you in the course of this year, but as\n                            none of them required a particular acknowledgment\u2014and as my time is generally much occupied\n                            I have been silent until now.\n                        The object of my writing to you now, is to request that the balance of \u00a3105.8.7 due\n                            to me, as appears by your account current dated the 23d of February in the present year may\n                            be remitted in the articles contained in the Invoice enclosed herewith.\n                        I pray you to send them (Insured) by the first good opportunity to Alexandria\n                            or George Town on Potomac. Accept my thanks for the Tarriers you had the goodness to send me\n                            by Captn Butts who took great care of them, & delivered them in good order\u2014With\n                            esteem\u2014I remain Sir\u2014Your Most Obedt Servt\n                            Invoice of Goods to be shipped for, and consigned to, the Subscriber at Mount\n                                Vernon in Virginia by James Maury Esqr. and sent by the first Vessel bound to the Port\n                                of Alexandria, or George Town on Potok.\n                        300 Wt of White lead ground in Oil\n                            2 pieces of very fine Cambrick\n                            6 large & handsome Table cloths\u2014All to be of the same size, fineness and figure.\n                            2. dozn handsome Napkins to suit Ditto.\n                            The surplus of the balance of \u00a3105.8.7 due to me, pr your acct current\n                                after Commission & charges\u2014freight and Insurance on the above Goods are added to the\n                                cost thereof, is to be sent to me in good British Oznabrigs.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00061", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, 5 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pinckney, Charles Cotesworth\n                        Not being able to recollect with certainty, whether I expressed to you my ardent\n                            desire that no favourable occasion might be omitted, by you, of Signifying how much it was\n                            my wish, and the wishes of the People of this country, that that friend to it\u2014Mr de la\n                            Fayette\u2014could be liberated from his confinement, is the cause of my giving you the trouble\n                        Not in my public character, have I conceived myself authorised to move in this\n                            business; but in my private one I have used, and shall continue to use, every exertion in my\n                            power to effect this much desired object. For surely if a hard fate has attended any one,\n                            the fortunes of this gentleman has met it.\n                        It would give me much pleasure to hear of your safe arrival after an agreeable\n                            passage; and that your reception from the French Directory has been favourable.\n                        Of politics, or on matters of public concern, I shall say nothing\u2014because you\n                            are too recently from this country to need information on the first subject\u2014and from the\n                            Office of State you receive all that can be given on the second.\n                        In presenting compliments to Mrs and Miss Pinckney, Mrs Washington unites hers\n                            along with those of My dear Sir Your most Obedt and Affectionate Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00062", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Charles Morgan, 6 December 1796\nFrom: Morgan, Charles\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I have Receiv\u2019d all the Rents for you, that Colo. Cannon put into my hands\n                            Except Nine pounds Sixteen Shillings, Which he had Receivd previous to delivering me the\n                            Accts\u2014I have forwarded the Money to you by Mr Ross\u2014and have Inclos\u2019d the acct\u2014Colo. Cannon\n                            will not come to any Settlement with me Respecting what he owes you\u2014he Says he Chuses to\n                        on my Way from Kentuckey last Spring in passing through your land at the Round\n                            Bottom I observd the people from Grave Creek have been making vast quantities of Shugar on\n                            it, for about three years past, and Destroyd Timber &c. I am your Humbe Servt\n                            P.S. I Shall Collect the Rents due from the Millers Run Estate which I\n                                contracted for as quick as possible and forward it to you &ca.\n                            George Washington president of the U.S.1796Dr.Contra Cr.OctobrTo Cash Sent you by Mr Ross on Acct of Shreves Notes, Including\n  debt & Interest\u00a3228.3.9\nBy two Notes on Israel Shreve, put  into my hands by Colo. Cannon\n  Interest228.3.9DecembrTo Cash Sent by Mr Ross on Acct of the Millers Run Lands,\n  Which accts Was put into my\n  hands by Colo. Cannon Including\n  Interest &c.22.17.3By Notes and Accts put into my  hands by Colo. Cannon, on\n  Acct of Rents for the\n  Millers Run land Including\n  Interest &c. 45.17.6To an Acct deliverd to me by  Cannon which he had Recd", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00063", "content": "Title: From George Washington to United States Congress, 7 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Congress\n                            House of RepresentativesFellow Citizens of\n                                the Senate, and of the House of Representatives\n                        In recurring to the internal situation of our Country since I had last the\n                            pleasure to address you, I find ample reason for a renewed expression of that gratitude to\n                            the Ruler of the Universe, which a continued series of prosperity has so often and so justly\n                        The acts of the last session, which required special arrangements, have been,\n                            as far as circumstances would admit, carried into operation.\n                        Measures calculated to ensure a continuance of the friendship of the Indians,\n                            and to preserve peace along the extent of our interior frontier, have been digested and\n                            adopted. In the framing of these, care has been taken to guard, on the one hand, our\n                            advanced settlements from the predatory incursions of those unruly individuals, who cannot\n                            be restrained by their Tribes; and on the other hand, to protect the rights secured to the\n                            Indians by treaty; to draw them nearer to the civilised state; and inspire them with correct\n                            conceptions of the power, as well as justice of the Government.\n                        The meeting of the deputies from the Creek nation at Colerain, in the State of\n                            Georgia, which had for a principal object the purchase of a parcel of their land by that\n                            State, broke up without it\u2019s being accomplished; the nation having previous to their\n                            departure instructed them against making any sale; the occasion however has been improved to\n                            confirm by a new treaty with the Creeks, their pre-existing engagements with the United\n                            States; and to obtain their consent to the establishment of trading houses, and military\n                            posts within their boundary; by means of which, their friendship and the general peace may\n                            be more effectually secured.\n                        The period during the late session at which the appropriation was passed, for\n                            carrying into effect the treaty of Amity, Commerce and Navigation between the United States\n                            and his Britannic Majesty, necessarily procrastinated the reception of the posts stipulated\n                            to be delivered, beyond the date assigned for that event. As soon however as the Governor\n                            General of Canada could be addressed with propriety on the subject, arrangements were\n                            cordially and promptly concluded for their evacuation, and the United States took possession\n                            of the principal of them, comprehending Oswego, Niagara, Detroit, Michelimakinac and Fort\n                            Miami, where such repairs and additions have been ordered to be made as appeared\n                        The Commissioners appointed on the part of the United States and of Great\n                            Britain, to determine which is the river St Croix, mentioned in the treaty of peace of 1783,\n                            agreed in the choice of Egbert Benson Esqr. of New York, for the third Commissioner. The\n                            whole met at St Andrews, in Passamaquoddy bay, in the beginning of October, and directed\n                            surveys to be made of the rivers in dispute; but deeming it impracticable to have these\n                            surveys completed before the next year, they adjourned, to meet at Boston in August 1797,\n                            for the final decision of the question.\n                        Other Commissioners appointed on the part of the United States, agreeably to\n                            the seventh article of the treaty with Great Britain, relative to captures and condemnation\n                            of vessels and other property, met the Commissioners of his britannic Majesty in London, in\n                            August last, when John Trumbull Esqr. was chosen by lot, for the fifth Commissioner. In\n                            October following the board were to proceed to business. As yet, there has been no\n                            communication of Commissioners on the part of Great Britain, to unite with those who have\n                            been appointed on the part of the United States, for carrying into effect the sixth article\n                        The Treaty with Spain required that the Commissioners for running the boundary\n                            line between the territory of the United States and his Catholic Majesty\u2019s Provinces of East\n                            and West Florida, should meet at the Natchez before the expiration of  six months after\n                            the exchange of the ratifications, which was effected at Aranjuez on the 25th day of April;\n                            and the troops of his Catholic Majesty occupying any posts within the limits of the United\n                            States, were within the same period to be withdrawn. The Commissioner of the United States,\n                            therefore, commenced his journey for the Natchez in September, and troops were ordered to\n                            occupy the posts from which the Spanish garrisons should be withdrawn. Information has been\n                            recently received of the appointment of a Commissioner on the part of his Catholic Majesty\n                            for running the boundary line; but none of any appointment for the adjustment of the claims\n                            of our citizens whose vessels were captured by the armed vessels of Spain.\n                        In pursuance of the act of Congress passed in the last session, for the\n                            protection and relief of American seamen, agents were appointed, one to reside in Great\n                            Britain, and the other in the West Indies. The effects of the agency in the West Indies are\n                            not yet fully ascertained; but those which have been communicated afford grounds to believe\n                            the measure will be beneficial. The agent destined to reside in Great Britain declining to\n                            accept the appointment, the business has consequently devolved on the Minister of the United\n                            States in London, and will command his attention, until a new agent shall be appointed.\n                        After many delays and disappointments, arising out of the European war, the\n                            final arrangements for fulfilling the engagements made to the Dey and Regency of Algiers,\n                            will, in all present appearance, be crowned with success; but under great, though inevitable\n                            disadvantages in the pecuniary transactions, occasioned by that war; which will render a\n                            further provision necessary. The actual liberation of all our citizens who were prisoners in\n                            Algiers, while it gratifies every feeling heart, is itself an earnest, of a satisfactory\n                            termination of the whole negotiation. Measures are in operation for effecting Treaties with\n                            the Regencies of Tunis and Tripoli.\n                        To an active external commerce, the protection of a naval force is\n                            indispensible. This is manifest with regard to Wars in which a State is itself a party. But\n                            besides this, it is in our own experience, that the most sincere neutrality is not a\n                            sufficient guard against the depredations of nations at war. To secure respect to a neutral\n                            flag, requires a naval force, organized and ready to vindicate it from insult or aggression.\n                            This may even prevent the necessity of going to war, by discouraging belligerent powers from\n                            committing such violations of the rights of the neutral party as may first or last, leave no\n                            other option. From the best information I have been able to obtain, it would seem as if our\n                            trade to the Mediterranean without a protecting force will always be insecure, and our\n                            citizens exposed to the calamities from which numbers of them have but just been relieved.\n                        These considerations invite the United States to look to the means, and to set\n                            about the gradual creation of a navy. The increasing progress of their navigation promises\n                            them, at no distant period, the requisite supply of seamen; and their means in other\n                            respects favour the undertaking. It is an encouragement likewise, that their particular\n                            situation will give weight and influence to a moderate naval force in their hands. Will it\n                            not then be advisable to begin without delay, to provide and lay up the materials for the\n                            building and equipping of ships of war; and to proceed in the work by degrees, in proportion\n                            as our resources shall render it practicable without inconvenience; so that a future war of\n                            Europe may not find our commerce in the same unprotected state, in which it was found by the\n                        Congress have repeatedly, and not without success, directed their attention to\n                            the encouragement of manufactures. The object is of too much consequence not to ensure a\n                            continuance of their efforts in every way which shall appear eligible. As a general rule,\n                            manufactures on public account are inexpedient. But where the state of things in a country\n                            leaves little hope that certain branches of manufacture will, for a great length of time,\n                            obtain; when these are of a nature essential to the furnishing and equipping of the public\n                            force in time of war; are not establishments for procuring them on public account to the extent of the ordinary demand for the public service,\n                            recommended by strong considerations of national policy, as an exception to the general\n                            rule? Ought our country to remain in such cases dependant on foreign supply, precarious,\n                            because liable to be interrupted? If the necessary articles should in this mode cost more in\n                            time of peace, will not the security and independence thence arising, form an ample\n                            compensation? Establishments of this sort, commensurate only with the calls of the public\n                            service in time of peace, will, in time of war, easily be extended in proportion to the\n                            exigencies of the Government; and may even perhaps be made to yield a surplus for the supply\n                            of our citizens at large; so as to mitigate the privations from the interruption of their\n                            trade. If adopted, the plan ought to exclude all those branches which are already, or likely\n                            soon to be established in the country; in order that there may be no danger of interference\n                            with pursuits of individual industry.\n                        It will not be doubted, that with reference either to individual or national\n                            welfare, Agriculture is of primary importance. In proportion as nations advance in\n                            population, and other circumstances of maturity, this truth becomes more apparent; and\n                            renders the cultivation of the soil more and more an object of public patronage.\n                            Institutions for promoting it, grow up supported by the public purse: and to what object can\n                            it be dedicated with greater propriety? Among the means which have been employed to this\n                            end, none have been attended with greater success, than the establishment of Boards,\n                            composed of proper characters, charged with collecting and diffusing information, and\n                            enabled by premiums and small pecuniary aids, to encourage and assist a spirit of discovery\n                            and improvement. This species of establishment contributes doubly to the increase of\n                            improvement; by stimulating to enterprise and experiment; and by drawing to a common centre\n                            the results every where, of individual skill and observation, and spreading them thence over\n                            the whole nation. Experience accordingly has shewn, that they are very cheap instruments of\n                            immense national benefits.\n                        I have heretofore proposed to the consideration of Congress, the expediency of\n                            establishing a National University; and also a Military Academy. The desireableness of both\n                            these Institutions, has so constantly increased with every new view I have taken of the\n                            subject, that I cannot omit the opportunity of once for all, recalling your attention to\n                        The assembly, to which I address myself, is too enlightened not to be fully\n                            sensible how much a flourishing state of the arts and sciences contributes to national\n                            prosperity and reputation. True it is, that our country, much to its honour, contains many\n                            seminaries of learning highly respectable and useful; but the funds upon which they rest,\n                            are too narrow to command the ablest professors in the different departments of liberal\n                            knowledge, for the Institution contemplated; though they would be excellent auxiliaries.\n                        Amongst the motives to such an Institution, the assimilation of the principles,\n                            opinions and manners of our countrymen, by the common education of a portion of our Youth\n                            from every quarter, well deserves attention. The more homogeneous our citizens can be made\n                            in these particulars, the greater will be our prospect of permanent union; and a primary\n                            object of such a national institution should be, the education of our Youth in the science\n                            of Government. In a Republic, what species of knowledge can be\n                            equally important? and what duty more pressing on its Legislature, than to patronize a plan\n                            for communicating it to those, who are to be the future guardians of the liberties of the\n                        The institution of a Military Academy, is also recommended by cogent reasons.\n                            However pacific the general policy of a nation may be, it ought never to be without an\n                            adequate stock of military knowledge for emergencies. The first would impair the energy of\n                            its character, and both would hazard its safety, or expose it to greater evils when war\n                            could not be avoided. Besides, that war might often not depend upon its own choice. In\n                            proportion as the observance of pacific maxims might exempt a nation from the necessity of\n                            practicing the rules of the miltary art, ought to be its care in preserving and transmitting\n                            by proper establishments, the knowledge of that art. Whatever argument may be drawn from\n                            particular examples, superficially viewed; a thorough examination of the subject will\n                            evince, that the art of war is at once comprehensive and complicated; that it demands much\n                            previous study; and that, the possession of it, in its most improved and perfect state, is\n                            always of great moment to the security of a nation. This, therefore, ought to be a serious\n                            care of every Government; and for this purpose, an academy, where a regular course of\n                            instruction is given, is an obvious expedient, which different nations have successfully\n                        The compensations to the officers of the United States, in various instances,\n                            and in none more than in respect to the most important stations, appear to call for\n                            Legislative revision. The consequences of a defective provision are of serious import to the\n                            Government. If private wealth is to supply the defect of public retribution, it will greatly\n                            contract the sphere within which the selection of character for office is to be made; and\n                            will proportionally diminish the probability of a choice of men able as well as upright.\n                            Besides that it would be repugnant to the vital principles of our Government, virtually to\n                            exclude from public trusts talents and virtue, unless accompanied by wealth.\n                        While in our external relations, some serious inconveniencies and\n                            embarrassments have been overcome, and others lessened, it is with much pain, and deep\n                            regret I mention, that circumstances of a very unwelcome nature, have lately occurred. Our\n                            trade has suffered, and is suffering extensive injuries in the West-Indies, from the\n                            Cruisers, and agents of the French Republic; and communications have been received from its\n                            Minister here, which indicate the danger of a further disturbance of our Commerce by its\n                            authority; and which are, in other respects, far from agreeable.\n                        It has been my constant, sincere and earnest wish, in conformity with that of\n                            our nation, to maintain cordial harmony, and a perfectly friendly understanding with that\n                            Republic. This wish remains unabated; and I shall persevere in the endeavour to fulfil it,\n                            to the utmost extent of what shall be consistent with a just, and indispensable regard to\n                            the rights and honor of our Country: nor will I easily cease to cherish the expectation,\n                            that a spirit of justice, candour and friendship, on the part of the Republic, will\n                            eventually ensure success.\n                        In pursuing this course, however, I cannot forget what is due to the character\n                            of our Government and nation; or to a full and entire confidence in the good sense,\n                            patriotism, self-respect, and fortitude of my countrymen.\n                        I reserve for a special message, a more particular communication on this\n                            interesting subject.Gentlemen of the House of Representatives.\n                            I have directed an estimate of the appropriations necessary for the service\n                                of the ensuing year, to be submitted from the proper department; with a view of the\n                                public receipts and expenditures to the latest period to which an account can be\n                            It is with satisfaction I am able to inform you, that the Revenues of the\n                                United States continue in a state of progressive improvement.\n                            A reinforcement of the existing provisions for discharging our public debt,\n                                was mentioned in my address at the opening of the last session. Some preliminary steps\n                                were taken towards it, the maturing of which will, no doubt, engage your zealous\n                                attention during the present. I will only add, that it will afford me a heart-felt\n                                satisfaction to concur in such further measures, as will ascertain to our Country the\n                                prospect of a speedy extinguishment of the Debt. Posterity may have cause to regret, if\n                                from any motive, intervals of tranquillity are left unimproved for accelerating this\n                                valuable end.Gentlemen of the Senate, and of the House of Representatives.\n                            My solicitude to see the Militia of the United States placed on an\n                                efficient establishment, has been so often, and so ardently expressed, that I shall but\n                                barely recall the subject to your view on the present occasion; at the same time that I\n                                shall submit to your enquiry, whether our Harbours are yet sufficiently secured.\n                            The situation in which I now stand, for the last time, in the midst of the\n                                Representatives of the People of the United States, naturally recals the period when the\n                                administration of the present form of Government commenced; and I cannot omit the\n                                occasion to congratulate you, and my country, on the success of the experiment;\n                                nor to repeat my fervent supplications, to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe, and\n                                Sovereign Arbiter of Nations, that his Providential care may still be extended to the\n                                United States; that the virtue and happiness of the People, may be preserved; and that\n                                the Government, which they have instituted, for the protection of their liberties, may", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00064", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Charles Lee, 7 December 1796\nFrom: Lee, Charles\nTo: Washington, George\n                        The attorney General will observe the only objection which has occurred to him\n                            against the President\u2019s putting his signature to a letter such as the foregoing is that it\n                            is not usual for the President to correspond but by the channel of certain officers and\n                            the commissioners are the proper persons on common occasions which concern the city. But as\n                            this letter is not addressed to an individual, but to the sovereign power of a state, the\n                            objection may be disregarded if the President shall think it expedient, to write upon the", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00065", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Graham, 7 December 1796\nFrom: Graham, William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        We have lately heard of your generous, & disinterested conduct in\n                            refusing, as private emolument, the shares in the Patomak and James\u2019 River Companies\n                            presented to you by the Legislature of Virginia, as a testimony of their approbation &\n                            gratitude. We have also been informed of the wise, and benificent purposes to which you would have the profits arising from these shares applied; the\n                            endowment of a Seminary, on the waters of each of these Rivers, for the education of Youth;\n                            & that you referred the appropriation of the shares in the James\u2019 River Company to\n                            the wisdom of the Legislature of Virginia, who, after deliberating upon the important\n                            subject, agreed that the whole should be appropriated to one Seminary Up the country; but\n                            some difference of opinion arising respecting the particular place to which it should be\n                            applied\u2014referred the ultimate decision to your Excellency. Supposing our information just,\n                            we are constrained by the duty we owe the Public, as well as the Seminary we have long had\n                            the honor to patronize, to address you upon this very interesting subject. And here we\n                            cannot think it proper to pray you to grant the donation, for the support of Education in\n                            this seminary, as a matter of honor or emolument to ourselves, or of emolument to the\n                            Vicinity where it stands: this would be selfish and invidious, & inconsistent with\n                            the feelings of that mind which always overlooks private interest to embrace &\n                            secure the public good: We beg leave to state only a few facts for your Excellency\u2019s information\n                            that you may be enabled to decide the important question with greater precision. From a\n                            conviction of the necessity of a public Seminary to complete the education of Youth in this\n                            upper part of the State, as early as the year Seventy six, a seminary (before conducted in\n                            these parts under the form of a Grammar school) received the nominal Title of an Academy;\n                            and money was collected to purchase the beginnings of a Library, & some of the most\n                            essential parts of a mathematical & philosophical apparatus. The question then was\n                            where the Seminary should be fixed. Staunton was proposed by some to be the proper place;\n                            being the most ancient & populous Town, and nearest the centre of population, in the\n                            upper part of the State, as it then stood. But considering that a public Seminary, which was\n                            to be of permament duration, and general utility, ought not to be affected by local\n                            circumstances, arising from temporary causes; and viewing the extensive lands, upon the\n                            drains of Holstein to the South West, & of the Kanaway to the West, we were of\n                            opinion that the time was not far distant when the population upon these lands would equal\n                            if not exceed the population upon the drains of the Patomak to the North East, upon one of\n                            which drains Staunton stands\u2014we therefore considered the waters of James\u2019 River as forming a\n                            kind of natural and common centre: We also felt a conviction that the extensive, and fertile\n                            lands upon this Stream would, at a period not far remote, point out the necessity, and\n                            practicability, of rendering its branches navigable above the mountains; & we have\n                            been happy in seeing our expectations realizing every day.\n                        From these considerations we concluded that some spot in that track which is\n                            now Rockbridge County would be the proper place; We therefore organized the Seminary, and\n                            set it in motion, hoping that the public would one day aid our exertions, and enable us to\n                            perfect what had been honestly begun. Thro\u2019 the calamaties of a long and dangerous war, and\n                            the deceptions of a paper currency, together with other misfortunes, very considerable\n                            obstructions were experienced; but being happy in able, and dilligent Teachers, we were\n                            enabled to preserve the Academy in a state of considerable reputation: In the year eighty two\n                            we were aided by an act of incorporation, from our State Legislature which was the first\n                            that was granted after the Revolution.\n                        In the year ninety three it became necessary to fix upon the spot where\n                            permament buildings should be erected\u2014which was determined to be in that fine tract of\n                            country known by the name of the Woods\u2019 Creek lands, in the Forks of James\u2019 River, one mile from the navigation of the North branch, and on an eminence\n                            about three quarters of a mile from Lexington, so that whilst the Academy enjoys an\n                            extensive prospect of the circumjacent country and a full view of the Town it possesses,\n                            agreeably to the great design of its institution, a calm and undisturbed retirement for\n                            study: The situation of the neighborhood for health and fertility as well as for\n                            pleasantness yields to no high lands in the upper parts of the State.\n                        If we have had accurate information of the state of the dispute (as it lately\n                            existed in our State-Legislature) concerning the fixing on a proper place, their general sentiment tended to confirm the propriety of our\n                            original choice. It is said Fincastle on the one side and Staunton on the other were the\n                            extremes which made any vigorous claim\u2014Fincastle is situate 37 miles South west from Liberty\n                            Hall; and Staunton 33 North east: Liberty Hall therefore is in the centre as near as local\n                            circumstances would admit.\n                        One fact more we would beg leave to mention\u2014In the year ninety three by\n                            voluntary contributions and some sacrafice of private property we were enabled to erect\n                            plain but neat buildings sufficiently capacious to accommodate between 40 & 50\n                            Students\u2014The business of education is now in full train, and the Seminary in as high\n                            reputation as could be expected without funds. \n                        Many young Gentlemen have completed their education here who are now serving\n                            their Country with reputation & usefulness in different professional departments;\n                            and a number are at present collected from distant parts of the country for the same end.\n                            The buildings and furniture of the Academy could not be estimated at much less than two\n                            thousand pounds\u2014If the seat of the Academy is changed the young Gentlemen must for some time\n                            be interrupted in their studies, and the buildings totally lost, as they can be applied to\n                            no other purpose\u2014The destruction of so much property, procured with considerable\n                            difficulty, unless a much greater preponderating good can be secured to the public, will\n                            doubtless be seriously weighed. As the public good is the only object which can influence\n                            your determination, it is unnecessary to add any thing farther, but, fully confiding in\n                            your wisdom, we shall entirely acquiesce in your decision.\n                        That all possible happiness present & future may attend your person and\n                            every public blessing your administration is the desire & prayer of your\n                            Excellency\u2019s humble servts. By order\u2014& in behalf of the Board", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00067", "content": "Title: From George Washington to John Hoskins Stone, 7 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Stone, John Hoskins\n                        The attempts lately made by the Commissioners of the City of Washington to\n                            borrow Money in Europe for the purpose of carrying on the public buildings having failed or\n                            been retarded they have been authorised by me to apply to your State for a loan of One\n                            hundred and fifty thousand Dollars upon terms which they will communicate. Such is the\n                            present situation of foreign Nations with respect to Money, that according to the best\n                            information there is no reasonable hope of obtaining a loan in any of them immediately and\n                            applications can now only be made in the United States upon this subject with any prospect\n                            of success and perhaps no where with greater propriety than to the Legislature of Maryland\n                            where it must be presumed the most anxious solicitude is felt for the growth and prosperity\n                            of that City which is intended for the permanent Seat of Government in America.\n                        If the State has it in its power to lend the money which is solicited, I\n                            persuade myself it will be done, and the more especially at this time when a loan is so\n                            indispensable that without it not only very great and many impediments must be endured in\n                            the prossecution of the Work now in hand, but inevitable loss must be sustained by the funds\n                            of the City, in consequence of premature Sales of the public property\u2014I have thought I\n                            ought not to omit to State for the information of the General Assembly, as well the\n                            difficulty of obtaining Money on loan, as the present necessity for it, which I must request\n                            the favor of you most respectfully to communicate. With very great respect I am Sir Your", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00068", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Jacob Van Vleck, 7 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Van Vleck, Jacob\n                        The letter you were pleased to favour me with, relative to my (grand) niece\n                            Maria Washington, was (a copy of it) sent to Mr Lear, who married her mother, and is her\n                            guardian, with a request that he would ascertain the precise time for her entering the\n                            School for young Ladies, under your auspices, at Bethlehem.\n                        Enclosed you have his answer, & you have to decide whether the first of\n                            April, or an earlier day will suit your purposes best, to receive the child. She is\n                            fatherless & motherless; to have with her therefore the daughter of Colo. Ball, who\n                            is the daughter of her father\u2019s Sister also, would be very pleasing to the two girls, if it\n                            could be made convenient to the School.\n                        Your answer to these requests, if put under cover to me, shall be immediately\n                            forward to Mr Lear, for his government. Before I conclude, I pray you to accept my thanks\n                            for your ready consent to admit the child, in whose behalf I first applied; & for\n                            the favourable Sentiments you have been pleased to express for Revd Sir Your Most Obedt and", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00069", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Quincy Adams, 9 December 1796\nFrom: Adams, John Quincy\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I received at Amsterdam on the 5th instt the Letter which you did me the honour\n                            to write me on the 12th of September, and immediately made enquiries to ascertain whether\n                            there was at Amsterdam a person by the name of Sollingen. I could trace no such person, but\n                            am informed that Sollingen near Dusseldorf in Germany is a place where there are noted\n                            manufactures of arms and sword-cutlery. I have therefore written to an eminent manufacturer\n                            of that place in order to discover the maker of the sword concerning which you are pleased\n                            to favour me with your commands. I shall take the earliest possible opportunity to write\n                            you, Sir, the result of my enquiries. I have the honour to be with every Sentiment of\n                            veneration and attachment Sir, your very humble & obedient Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00071", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Fleming, 10 December 1796\nFrom: Fleming, William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        This will be handed you by my friend, mr William Claiborne junr who is at\n                            present a judge of the superiour court in the state of Tennessee and who aspires to the\n                            office of District judge of that state; where I spent several days, in a late tour through\n                            the Western country. Mr Claiborne has much the respect and confidence of his fellow citizens\n                            in that quarter; among whom he has been a very successful practitioner of the law for\n                            several years: indeed his superior talents, great sobriety, and intense application to\n                            business, distinguish him from the generality of young gentlemen of his age: and should he be\n                            so fortunate as to succeed in his application, I am persuaded you will never have cause to\n                        I hope sir you will pardon the liberty I have taken on this occasion, and while\n                            the pen is yet in my hand, and you are about to retire to the enjoyment of domestick\n                            tranquility, permit me to express my entire approbation, and admiration, of the wisdom,\n                            ability, and firmness with which you have discharged the arduous duties of the most\n                            important office in the United States, at a time when party\u2014prejudice, interested views, and\n                            (perhaps) resentment of supposed injuries, combining, are ever active in misrepresentations\n                            to the people, and in unremitting endeavours to thwart a wise and just administration of one\n                            of the best governments in the universe. With the highest veneration for your publick and\n                            virtues, and most fervent prayers for your present and future happiness, I have the honor to\n                            be, dear sir, Your obedient servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00072", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 10 December 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I have prepared every thing for the departure of the deputies of the Northern\n                            Nations who will leave this City early on Monday morning. As they have expressed a desire of\n                            taking leave of you to-day, if it should be convenient, I request you to mention the time,\n                            when I will send them with Col. Mentges. With the greatest respect I have the honour to be", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00073", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 10 December 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n                        The Secry of war requests the Presidents signature to the inclosed advice which\n                            was delivered to the deputies of the Western Indians the 29 Novr ulto. The Secry hopes to be\n                            able to have them dismissed on Monday or tuesday.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00074", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Isaac Tichenor, 10 December 1796\nFrom: Tichenor, Isaac,Paine, Elijah\nTo: Washington, George\n                        We do ourselves the honor to enclose to you the copy of an Address passed by the\n                            unanimous voice of the Council and General Assembly of the State of Vermont, together with\n                            their Resolution relative thereto\u2014We wish to be informed at what time and place you will be\n                            pleased to receive the same\u2014We are with sentiments of Respect your Obt and very\n                                                An ADDRESS from the Legislature of the State of Vermont\u2014To the President\n                            From the unrecognized situation of this state, the Legislature had not an\n                                opportunity, in common with her sister states, to anticipate, by an address, the\n                                blessings which were expected from your administration. Permit us, now, with sincere\n                                satisfaction, to assure you, that the event has justified the most sanguine hopes of the\n                                Legislature of Vermont, and their constituents. When we contrast the gloomy aspect, both\n                                of our domestic and foreign affairs, a few years since, with the flattering prospects\n                                now before us, we at once appreciate the advantages which immediately result from our\n                                general government; and the Justice, magnanimity and moderation, which has marked your\n                                administration. Convinced of our true interest, you have successfully opposed faction,\n                                and maintained that neutrality, so necessary to our national honor and peace. Accept,\n                                Sir, the only acknowledgment in our power to make, or in yours to receive, the gratitude\n                                of a free People. Ardently as we wish your continuance in public office, yet, when we\n                                reflect on the years of anxiety you have spent in your country\u2019s service, we must\n                                reluctantly acquiesce in your wishes, and consent that you should pass the evening of\n                                your days, in reviewing a well-spent life; and, looking forward, to scenes beyond the\n                                grave, where our prayers shall ascend, for a complete reward, for all your services, in a\n                            We receive your address to your fellow citizens, as expressive of the\n                                highest zeal for their prosperity, and containing the best advice to ensure its\n                                continuance. We cannot, Sir, close this address (probably the last public communication\n                                we may have occasion to make to you) without assuring you of our affection and respect.\n                                May the shade of private life, be as grateful to you, as the splendor of your public\n                                life, has been useful to your country! We shall recollect you with filial affection\u2014your\n                                advice as an inestimable legacy; and shall pride ourselves, in teaching our children the\n                                importance of that advice and a humble imitation of your example.\n                                Resolved unanimously, that the Governor and Council, be requested to\n                                    concur in the foregoing Address to The President of the United States; And that the\n                                    same be presented to the President, by the Senators in Congress from this State.\n                                Read, and unanimously concurred\n                                Attest. Truman Squier, Secretary.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00075", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Richard Peters, 10 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Peters, Richard\n                        Herewith, you will not only receive the Outlines &ca (asked for\n                            yesterday) but the Appendix thereto; and other productions from the same quarter; which, when\n                            you have done with, be so good as to return.\n                        These, or some of the Papers, may be of use to a Committee, if Congress should\n                            incline to take up the subject of Agriculture.\n                        Your observations, with the return of the Papers, will be very acceptable to Dr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00076", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 10 December 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n                        The Secretary of State has the honour to lay before the President of the United\n                            States the draught of a letter to Colo. Humphreys, with such of his communications as one\n                            referred to and necessary to elucidate the remarks in the letter.\n                        The Secretary who presents a letter from Joseph Sterlitz resident of New York,\n                            communicating the request of his partner & uncle Philip Mark to be favoured with his\n                            commission of Consul of the U.S. for Franconia, in Latin or German, none other being\n                            admissible in that country; in consequence of which a commission in Latin has been made out,\n                            bearing the date of the original in English.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00077", "content": "Title: From George Washington to John Sinclair, 10 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Sinclair, John\n                        Since I had the honor of writing to you in June last, I have been favoured with\n                            your letters of the 14th & 30th of May and 10th of September; accompanying the\n                            additional appendix to the chapter on manures; your address to the Board of Agriculture; and\n                            other valuable productions relative to that important subject.\n                        For your goodness in sending them to me, I pray you to accept my best thanks and\n                            regrets at the sametime for the inflamation in your eyes; which to a man as actively, and\n                            as usefully employed in one of the most interesting pursuits that can occupy a rational mind\n                            as you are must be doubly afflictive. If my wishes could contribute to a removal of the\n                            malady, they would be offered with much Sincerity.\n                        The result of the experiments entrusted to the care of Doctr Fordyer, must be\n                            as curious as they may prove interesting to the Science of Husbandry. Not less so will be, an\n                            intelligent solution of those queries relative to live stock, which are handed to the\n                        A few months more, say the third of March next\u2014and the scenes of my political\n                            life will close, & leave me in the shades of retirement; when, if a few years are allowed\n                            me to enjoy it (many I cannot expect, being upon the verge of sixty five) and health is\n                            continued to me, I shall peruse, with pleasure and edification, the fruits of your meritorious\n                            labours, for the improvement of agriculture; and shall have leizure I trust, to realise some\n                            of the useful discoveries which have been made in the Science of Husbandry\u2014Patronised by\n                            you, so much for the interest of mankind, & your own honor.\n                        Until the above period shall have arrived, and particularly during the present\n                            Session of Congress, which commenced the 5th instant, I can give but little attention to\n                            matters out of the line of my immediate avocations: I did not, however, omit the occasion at\n                            the opening of the Session, to call the attention of that body to the importance of\n                            Agriculture. What will be the result I know not at present, but if it should be favourable,\n                            the hints which you will have it in your power to give, cannot fail of being gratefully\n                            received by the members who may constitute the Board.\n                        The articles intrusted to the care of Doctr Edwards came safe, and while all of\n                            them are curious\u2014& entitled to my particular acknowledgments, none deserve to be\n                            held in higher estimation than the heads of the Egyptian Wheat. They came much too late\n                            however for our usual seed time, but I delayed not a moment in sending them to my Manager at\n                            Mount Vernon, with particular directions how to dispose of them to the best advantage;\n                            reserving one head as a resource, in case of failure from late sowing.\n                        Certainly no good reason can be assigned why the Hemp of New Zealand should\n                            not thrive with us, as that country lyes in about the same Southern latitude\u2014that our\n                            middle States do in the Northern. The Hemp of the East Indies grows well here (from my own\n                            experience) and I have no doubt of the Tea plant succeeding in So. Carolina & Georgia.\n                        The Gentlemen whose names you have mentioned in your letter of the 10th of\n                            September, will, I am persuaded, be gratified for your civilities. The true policy of this\n                            country is to live in peace & amity with all the World; and I am sure it is the wish\n                            of the government that it should do so, as long as is consistent with the respect that is\n                        I cannot conclude without requesting your acceptance of my grateful\n                                acknowledgments, for the expression of your wishes to see me in Great\n                            Britain, and under your hospitable roof; But I believe there are few things more\n                            certain than, that after I have retired to Mount Vernon, I shall never go twenty miles\n                            beyond the limits of it; unless per chance, I should visit some landed property (under\n                            leases) at the distance of about seventy miles from it. With very great esteem & respect I\n                            have the honor to be Sir Your most Obedt & Obliged", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00078", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Isaac Tichenor, 11 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Tichenor, Isaac,Paine, Elijah\n                        As soon after the Senate have presented their address tomorrow and retired, as\n                            you can make it convenient to yourselves, I shall be ready to receive, from your hands, that\n                            from the Legislature of Vermont. With great esteem I am Gentlemen Your Obedient Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00079", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 11 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n                        Since my last to you was dispatched, I have received your letters of the 30th\n                        I am sorry to hear that your Wheat begins to heat. If it does this in a degree\n                            to do it much injury, it ought to be disposed of for the best price you can get; but\n                            otherwise, as I have waited so long to grind it, & shall have occasion for the Bran,\n                            I had rather Manufacture it myself.\n                        It is a matter of astonishment to me, that the lower floor of the Barn at Dogue\n                            Run has given way so soon. How it was laid at first, being from home, I know not; but if it\n                            had been executed according to my directions, & the end of the sleepers, by the\n                            tenons had rested on a Wall, it could not have given way until the Sleepers themselves had\n                            failed. As the case is, I must endeavour, after I come home, to make the floor without the\n                            circle, of some well tempered earth, or composition, to guard against the expence of such\n                            frequent decays. In the meantime, the best shift that can, must be made.\n                        I must remind you of having the Pork killed & salted before you go\n                            away; and above all things attend to the Ice house, as it is of serious importance on\n                            account of fresh meat next summer, that it should be filled.\n                        Not perceiving by the weekly repts, that any of the Trees at the Mansion house\n                            have been taken up, or trimmed; and as little, if any thing, can be done at it now, give Mr\n                            Anderson all the information you can relative to this business; and turn the string of\n                            Memorandums (which I sent to you sometime ago) over to him.\n                        Relying on Mr Smiths making you the first payment (on the 24th instt) according\n                            to promise, I request again, that no demand against me may be left unpaid; among these pay\n                            Gray the Weaver; and let all that is owing to me, be reduced to promissary notes.\n                        I hope all the Shelters for the Cattle are up, that they may be secure from\n                            Snows, Rain and cold weather; for it is always observable, that if they suffer in the early\n                            part of Winter, they rarely get perfectly recovered of it.\n                        Mr Craik informs me that Clark (I think his name is) whom you recommended to\n                            him, has been very sick, but, notwithstanding, has given evident demonstrations of his\n                            fitness as an overlooker. I wish you would make it a point to see Clark, & fix him\n                            to me, as agreed, for the next year; otherwise I may have more difficulty in doing it, than\n                            at the present time; from causes which you will be at no loss to conjecture. It was\n                            extremely unlucky, after waiting so long to get an answer from the Eastern Shore, that I had\n                            not waited a few days longer\u2014until Clark arrived\u2014Pray did you see the person on the Eastern\n                            shore, when last there, from whom you had been expecting to hear? and what excuse did he\n                            make for not fulfilling his promise of writing to you?\n                        In my next letter, I will send you a certificate of my satisfaction in your\n                            Services as a Manager. I would have done it now, but am hurried, and it will be in time\n                            then. I am Yr friend and well wisher", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00080", "content": "Title: From George Washington to John Sinclair, 11 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Sinclair, John\nPrivate\n                        The near view which you have of the Revolution in France, and of the political\n                            state of things in Europe, especially those of Great Britain, has enabled you to form a\n                            judgment with so much more accuracy than I could do, of the probable result of the\n                            perturbated state of the countries which compose that quarter of the globe, and of the\n                            principal actors on that theatre, that it wd be presumption in me, at the distance of 3000\n                            miles, to give an opinion relatively to either men, or measures; and therefore, I will\n                            proceed to the information required in your private letter of the 11th of September, wch I\n                            will give from the best knowledge I possess, & with the candour you have a right to\n                        The United States, as you well know, are very extensive\u2014more than 1500 miles\n                            between the North Eastern, & So. Western extremities; all parts of which, from the\n                            Seaboard to the Apalachian Mountains, (which divide the Eastern from the Western waters) are\n                            entirely settled; though not as compactly as they are susceptible of; and settlements are\n                            progressing rapidly beyond them.\n                        Within so great a space, you are not to be told, that there are a great variety\n                            of climates; and you will readily suppose too that, there are all sorts of land\u2014differently\n                            improved, and of various prices, according to the quality of the soil; its contiguity to, or\n                            remoteness from Navigation; the Nature of the improvements, and other local circumstances.\n                            These however, are only sufficient for the formation of a general\n                            opinion, for there are material deviations, as I shall mention hereafter.\n                        In the New England States, and to Pennsylvania inclusively, landed property is\n                            more divided than it is in the States South of them. The farms are smaller, the buildings\n                            and other improvements, generally, better; and, of consequence, the population is greater:\n                            But then, the climate, especially to the Eastward of Hudson river, is cold, the winters\n                            long, consuming a great part of the Summers labour in support of their Stocks, during the\n                            Winter: Nevertheless, it is a country abounding in grass, and furnishes much fine Beef,\n                            besides exporting many horses to the West Indies. A Mill-dew or blight (I am speaking now of\n                            the New England States particularly) prevents them from raising Wheat adequate to their own\n                            consumption; and of other grains they export little or none: Fish being their Staple. They\n                            live well notwithstanding, and are a happy People. Their numbers are not augmented by\n                            foreign emigrants; yet, from their circumscribed limits, compact situation, and natural\n                            population\u2014they are filling the western parts of the State of New York, and the country on\n                            the Ohio with their own surplusage.\n                        New Jersey is a small state, & all parts of it, except the\n                            Southwestern, are pleasant\u2014healthy\u2014and productive of all kinds of grain, &ca. Being\n                            surrounded on two sides by New York, and on the other two by Delaware River & the\n                            Atlantic, it has no land of its own to supply the surplus of its population, of course their\n                            emigrations are principally towards the Ohio.\n                        Pennsylvania is a large state, and from the policy of its founder, and of the\n                            government since; and especially from the celebrity of Philadelphia, has become the general\n                            recepticle of foreigners from all countries, and of all descriptions; many of whom soon take\n                            an active part in the politics of the State; and coming over full of prejudices against\n                            their own governments, some against all government, you will be enabled, without any comment\n                            of mine, to draw your own inference of their conduct.\n                        Delaware is a very small State\u2014the greater part of which lyes low, and is\n                            supposed to be unhealthy. The Eastern shore of Maryland is similar thereto. The lands in\n                        But the Western parts of the last mentioned State, and of Virginia, quite to\n                            the line of No. Carolina, above tide water and more especially above the Blue Mountains, are\n                            similar to those of Pennsylvania between the Susquehanna & Potomac Rivers, in Soil,\n                            climate & productions; and in my opinion will be considered, if it is not considered\n                            so already, as the Garden of America; forasmuch as it lyes between the two extremes of heat\n                            & cold, partaking in a degree of the advantages of both, without feeling much, the\n                            inconveniences of either: and with truth it may be said, is among the most fertile lands in\n                            America, East of the Apalachian Mountains.\n                        The uplands of North & So. Carolina, and Georgia, are not dissimilar\n                            in soil; but as they approach the lower latitudes, are less\n                            congenial to Wheat\u2014and are supposed to be proportionally more unhealthy. Towards the\n                            Seaboard of all the Southern States (and further South the more so) the country is low,\n                            Sandy and unhealthy; for which reason I shall say little concerning them; for as I should\n                            not chuse to be an inhabitant of them myself, I ought not to say any thing that would induce\n                        This general description is furnished, that you may be enabled to form an idea\n                            of the part of the United States which would be most congenial to\n                            your inclination. To pronounce with any degree of precision what lands could be obtained for\n                            in the parts I have enumerated, is next to impossible, for the reasons I have before\n                            assigned; but upon pretty good data it may be said, that those in Pennsylvania are higher\n                            than those in Maryland (and I believe in any other State) declining in price as you go\n                            southerly, until the Rice Swamps of So. Carolina & Georgia are met with, &\n                            these are as much above the medium in price, as they are below it in health. I understand\n                            however, that from 30 to 40 dollars pr Acre (I fix on dollars because they apply equally to\n                                all the States, and because their relative value to sterling\n                            is well understood) may be denominated the Medium price in the vicinity of the Susquehanna,\n                            in the State of Pennsylvania: from 20 to 30 on the Potomac, both in what is called the\n                            Valley\u2014that is\u2014lying between the Blue Mountain & North Mountain wch are the richest\n                            lands we have\u2014and less, as I have noticed before, as you proceed Southerly. But what may\n                            appear singular, and was alluded to in the former part of this letter, the lands in the\n                            parts of which I am now speaking, on, and contiguous to, tide water (with local exceptions)\n                            are in lower estimation than those which are above, and more remote from Navigation. The\n                            causes however are apparent\u20141. the land is better. 2. higher & more healthy\u20143. they\n                            are chiefly, if not altogether, in the occupation of Farmers; and 4. from a combination of\n                            all these, purchasers are attracted, and of consequence the prices rise in proportion to the\n                        The rise in the value of landed property, in this country, has been\n                            progressive, ever since my attention has been turned to the subject (\u2014now more than 40\n                            years)\u2014but for the last three or four of that period, it has increased beyond all\n                            calculation\u2014owing in part to the attachment to, and the confidence which the people are\n                            beginning to place in, their form of Government\u2014and to the prosperity of the country from a\n                            variety of concurring causes, none more than to the late high prices of its produce.\n                        From what I have said, you will have perceived that the present prices of Land\n                            in Pennsylvania are higher than they are in Maryland and Virginia, although they are not of\n                            Superior quality. Two reasons have already been assigned for this, first, that in the settled part of it, the land is divided into smaller\n                            farms, and more improved; and 2dly being, in a greater degree than any other, the recepticle of emigrants, these receive their first\n                            impressions in Philadelphia, and rarely look beyond the limits of the State; but besides\n                            these, two other causes, not a little operative may be added; namely, that until Congress\n                            passed general Laws relative to naturalization and citizenship, foreigners found it easier\n                            to obtain the previledges annexed to them in this State than elsewhere; and because there\n                            are Laws here for the gradual abolition of Slavery, which neither of the two States abovementioned have, at present, but which nothing is more certain than that they must have,\n                        Notwithstanding these obstacles, and although I may incur the charge of\n                            partiality in hazarding such an opinion at this time, I do not\n                            hesitate to pronounce that, the Lands on the Waters of Potomack will, in a few years, be in\n                            greater demand, and in higher estimation than in any other part of the United States. But as\n                            I ought not to advance this doctrine without assigning reasons for it, I will request you to\n                            examine a general Map of the United States, and the following facts will strike you at first\n                            view. that they lye in the most temperate latitude of the United States; that the main river\n                            runs in a direct course to the expanded part of the Western\n                            country, and approximates nearer to the principal branches of the Ohio than any other\n                            Eastern water, & of course must become a great, if not (under all circumstances) the\n                            best highway into that Region; That the upper Sea port of the Potomac is considerably\n                            nearer to a large portion of the State of Pennsylvania than that portion is to Philadelphia,\n                            besides accomodating the settlers thereof with inland navigation for more than 200 miles.\n                            that the amazing extent of tide Navigation afforded by the Bay & Rivers of Chesapeak\n                            has scarcely a parallel. When to these are added, that a site at the junction of the inland,\n                            & tide navigations of that river is chosen for the permanent Seat of the general\n                            government, and is in rapid preparation for its reception. that the inland Navigation of the\n                            River is nearly completed to the extent abovementioned, & that its lateral branches\n                            are capable of great improvement, at a small expence through the most fertile parts of\n                            Virginia, in a Southerly direction, and crossing Maryland and extending into Pennsylvania in\n                            a Northerly one; thro\u2019 which (independent of what may come from the Western country) an\n                            immensity of produce will be water borne, thereby making the Federal City the great emporium\n                            of the United States. I say, when these things are taken into consideration, I am under no\n                            apprehension of having the opinion I have given relative to the value of land on Potomac,\n                            controverted by impartial men.\n                        There are farms always, and every where for Sale; if therefore, events should\n                            induce you to cast an eye towards America, there need be no apprehension of your being\n                            accomodated to your liking; and if I could be made useful to you therein, you might command\n                            my Services with the greatest freedom.\n                        Within full view of Mount Vernon\u2014seperated therefrom by Water only\u2014is one of\n                            the most beautiful Seats on the River, for Sale; but of greater magnitude than you seem to\n                            have contemplated. It is called Belvoir, and did belong to George William Fairfax Esqr.;\n                            who, was he living, would now be Baron of Cameron, as his younger brother in this country\n                            (he George William dying without issue) at present is, though he does not take upon himself\n                            the title. This seat was the residence of the abovenamed Gentleman before he went to\n                            England, and was accomodated with very good buildings, which were burnt soon after he\n                            left them. There are near 2000 Acres of land belonging to the tract, surrounded in a manner\n                            by water. The Mansion house stood on high and commanding ground: the soil is not of the\n                            first quality, but a considerable part of it lying level may with proper management, be\n                            profitably cultivated. There are some small tenements on the Estate, but the greater part\n                            thereof is in wood. At present it belongs to Thomas Fairfax\u2014Son of Bryan Fairfax, the\n                            Gentleman who will not, as I said before, take upon himself the title of Baron of Cameron. A\n                            year or two ago the price he fixed on the land was (as I have been informed) 33 1/3 dollars pr\n                            Acre; whether not getting that sum\u2014or whether he is no longer disposed to sell it, I am\n                            unable, with precision to say, for I have heard nothing concerning his intentions lately.\n                        With respect to the tenements I have offered to let, appertaining to my Mount\n                            Vernon Estate, I can give no better description of them, and of their appurtenances, than\n                            what is contained in the printed Advertisement here with enclosed: but that you may have a\n                            more distinct view of the farms, and their relative situation to the Mansion House, a sketch\n                            from actual Survey is also enclosed; annexed to which, I have given you from memory, the\n                            relative situation, & form of the Seat at Belvoir.\n                        The terms on which I had authorised the Superintendent of my concerns at Mount\n                            Vernon to lease the farms there, are also enclosed; which, with the other papers, &\n                            the general information herein detailed, will throw all the light I am enabled to give you,\n                            upon the subject of your enquiry. To have such a tenant as Sir John Sinclair, however\n                            desirable it might be, is an honor I dare not hope for; and to alienate any part of the Fee\n                            simple estate of Mount Vernon is a Measure I am not inclined to, as all the Farms are\n                            connected, and are parts of a whole. With very great esteem & respect I have the\n                            honor to be, Sir, Your most Obedient & Obliged Hble Servant\n                            P.S. As I shall have an opportunity in the course of the present Session\n                                of Congress to converse with the Members thereof from different States\u2014and from\n                                different parts of each State, I will write you a supplimentary account if essential\n                                information should be obtained in addition to, or corrective of what is given to you in", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00081", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Samuel Magaw, 12 December 1796\nFrom: Magaw, Samuel\nTo: Washington, George\n                        The American Philosophical Society, desirous of expressing due Regard for\n                            Preeminence in Science and Virtue, have directed an Eulogium to be prepared in the Memory of\n                            their late President, Dr David Rittenhouse; which is to be pronounced before the Society, on\n                            Saturday next, the 17th inst. at 12 o\u2019clock, in the Presbyterian Church, in High Street. \n                        It is particularly requested, that the President of the United States, and his\n                            Family may honour the Occasion with their Presence. ", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00082", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James Fennell, 12 December 1796\nFrom: Fennell, James\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I take the liberty of submitting to you the inclosed plan of lectures, which I\n                            hope will be honoured with your approbation. I am, Sir, With the greatest respect, your most", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00083", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Isaac Tichenor, 12 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Tichenor, Isaac,Paine, Elijah\n                        Gentlemen, United States 12th December 1796.\n                        With particular pleasure I receive the unanimous address of the Council and\n                            General Assembly of the State of Vermont. Although but lately admitted into the Union, yet\n                            the importance of your State, it\u2019s love of liberty and its energy, were manifested in the\n                            earliest periods of the revolution which established our Independence. Unconnected in name\n                            only, but in reality united with the confederated States, these felt and acknowledged the\n                            benefits of your cooperation. Their mutual safety and advantage duly appreciated, will never\n                            permit this Union to be dissolved.\n                        I enjoy great happiness in the testimony you have presented, and in the other\n                            proofs exhibited from various parts of our country, that the operations of the general\n                            Government have justified the hopes of our citizens at its formation, which is recognized as\n                            the era of national prosperity. The voluntary acknowledgments of my fellow citizens persuade\n                            me to believe that my agency has contributed to produce this effect. This belief will be to\n                            me a source of permanent satisfaction, and those acknowledgements a rich reward.\n                        My sincere thanks are due, and I beg you, Gentlemen, to make them acceptable to\n                            the Council and General Assembly of the State of Vermont, for the very obliging and\n                            affectionate terms in which they notice me and my public services. To such confidence and\n                            support, as I have experienced from Councils, Legislative assemblies, and the great body of\n                            American Citizens, I owed the best exertions of every faculty I possessed: happy now in the\n                            reflection, that our joint labours have been crowned with success, When withdrawn to the\n                            shade of private life, I shall view with growing pleasure, the increasing prosperity of the\n                            United States: in the perfect protection of their government, I trust to enjoy my retirement\n                            in tranquillity; and then, while indulging a favorite wish of my heart in agricultural\n                            pursuits, I may hope to make even my private business and amusement of some use to my", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00085", "content": "Title: From George Washington to United States Senate, 12 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate\n                        It affords me great satisfaction, to find in your address, a concurrence in\n                            sentiment with me, on the various topics which I presented for your information and\n                            deliberation; and that the latter, will receive from you, an attention proportioned to their\n                            respective importance.\n                        For the notice you take of my public services, civil and military, and your\n                            kind wishes for my personal happiness, I beg you to accept my cordial thanks. Those\n                            services, and greater had I possessed ability to render them, were due to the unanimous\n                            calls of my country; and its approbation, is my abundant reward.\n                        When contemplating the period of my retirement, I saw virtuous and enlightened\n                            men, among whom I relied on the discernment and patriotism of my fellow-citizens, to make the\n                            proper choice of a Successor: men who would require no influential example to ensure to the\n                            United States\" an able, upright and energetic administration\". To such men, I shall\n                            cheerfully yield the palm of genius & talent, to serve our common country: but at\n                            the sametime, I hope I may be indulged in expressing the consoling reflection (which\n                            consciousness suggests) and to bear it with me to my grave, that none can serve it with\n                            purer intentions than I have done, or with a more disinterested Zeal.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00086", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Hoskins Stone, 12 December 1796\nFrom: Stone, John Hoskins\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I had the honor of receiving your letter of the 7th Inst. respecting a loan of\n                            money by the State of Maryland to the Commissioners of the City of Washington, which was\n                            immediately communicated to the General Assembly and that Subject is under consideration.\n                            The object of this loan is certainly of primary importance to this State and I make no doubt\n                            of its being viewed in that light by the Legislature, and added to this, that it will feel a\n                            pleasure in carrying into operation your recommendation\u2014but it does not appear to me that it\n                            will comport with our Situation to extend this Loan to 150,000 Dollars\u2014probably not more\n                            than 80,000 or100,000 Dollars can be spared at this time\u2014By the\n                            unremitting exertions of a few men the funds of the State of Maryland are So arranged as to\n                            produce a certain revenue beyond the expenses of the Government, without any kind of\n                            Taxation, and there appears to be some degree of reluctance in changeing those funds\u2014whatever\n                            can with propriety be done relative to this loan, will meet with my most cordial\n                            Support\u2014with Sentiments of the hightest respect and regard, I have the honor to be sir Yr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00087", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Landon Carter, 13 December 1796\nFrom: Carter, Landon\nTo: Washington, George\n                        There is much Time escaped since I commenced my Reply to your queries, 29th\n                            ulmo; owing to my being upon a Party to visit this place; the season having waved that from\n                            day to day: I am now fixed here, and shall with pleasure take up the subject.\n                        Your 5th Quere would properly belong to the last Letter, on account of that\n                            confused management which has ever afflicted me: I will only observe, that the Reports of\n                            the partial Cultivaters, I have conferred with, answer your question in the Affirmative. It\n                            must be remarked upon the nature of stiff Land, and upon that of the Pease, that this Crop\n                            will probably be less certain; for the Plant delights in a dry Air, and such qualitied Earth\n                            generates too readily, the contrary state. Pardon me if I appear tedious, for I must urge\n                            upon you that it is not the Crop of Pease which constitutes the Farmer\u2019s object. The\n                            friendly preparation for the succeeding Crop of small grain, and the ultimate improvement to\n                            the Soil, make up a full inducement to the culture; should he but obtain a stack of Hay, to\n                            add to his other gains. If perchance he meets a suitable concurrence in the Season, and a\n                            Crop of Pulse comes in, he will unite with improvement, an excess of Profit on his Labor. To\n                            conclude the answer to this 5th Quere, I take occasion to mention,, that the Pease and the\n                            Culture, are equally congenial to the stiff, as they are to the light soils; effecting that\n                            happy medium, so desireable in every undertaking, by compacting the latter, and by opening\n                            the former; both to a fitness for vegitable demands.\n                        In your 6th Quere you ask my method of planting the Pease? I have yet had no\n                            experience in the Drill, but have hither to used the tedious way of dropping by hand; not prompted thereto by reason, but by a necessity which is too\n                            disinteresting to be here recited. The tediousness of doing it by hand consists in the\n                            business being done by three motions; first laying off with the Plough, the dropping the\n                            Pease, and last, draging over the Harrow to cover them. All this may be effected at a single\n                            stroke with a Drill, of a very simple structure: And I trust I shall be able to adopt the\n                            plan in future; & dismiss that flush harrowing.\n                        Your 7th Quere asks the sort of Pease preferred? I am fond of the small\n                            blackeye, for a twofold reason; they do not run so soon, & ripen together pretty\n                            well. True the gentleman Pease have the latter quality in a superior degree; but they are\n                            slow and not so productive. The demand being chiefly for the W. India Markett, the Blacke\n                            eye is mostly called for, and is the Election of the Toader. Tho for the Madeira Markett,\n                            the Gentleman,, or Calavance, is the best adapted. The other\n                                kinds, the Ram\u2019s horn in particular, are not so well suited to\n                            Sea-Carriage; being more apt to swell: The more the Pulse is spread over with color, the\n                            less they please the Consumer.\n                        I have just now acquired a few of a kind; which I concieve will prove useful in\n                            my arrangement; not for a markett Crop, but for a covering to my P.\n                            Cornfield, which I wish not to sow in small grain. This Pea takes it\u2019s Name from a Person in\n                            the County of Gloucester, who has long cultivated it, one Yetman.\n                            Planted with the P. Corn, they are so slow to run that they do not interfere, so long as the\n                             P-Corn requires culture; and once begining they proceed, with haste, to spread a matted\n                            covering over the ground, at common corn field distance. I will leave for others, to give the\n                            more pompous description of the excellencies of this growth; being beyond the pitch of my\n                        To your 8th quere, relating to the saleableness of that Article, I have to\n                            acquaint you, that my first Crop of Pease met with a very slow Markett. The Trader had been\n                            accustomed to such partial supplies, that no object was formed: The price was then 3/6. My\n                            subsequent sales have been 4/\u20144/6\u2014and 5/\u2014; and I am now led to expect 6/.\n                            The estimate of the value of the Pease has been, uniformly, at a rate exceeding that of P.\n                            Corn; I therefore suppose the probable advance of the one, will mount the other even above\n                        To the 9th Quere\u2014To purchase them at large, you will have little chance to\n                            obtain a chosen sort; nevertheless, I would first recommend an enquiery to be made in the\n                            Neighborhood of Mt Vernon, on acct of better suiting your convenience. If any Person, near\n                            your Farm, can accomodate your choice, it will save you some trouble; But as your Agent may\n                            probably be able to procure a Vessell, from the River Potomack round to Rapahanock; you\n                            shall, as a sure Resource, be supplied from Cleve.\n                        You will please to direct him to write to me your determination, and when I\n                            give him notice of the Pease being ready, to give his order to such Vessells. The quantity\n                            necessary I judge to be a bushell to the acre which may be profitably spent in seeding so\n                            much ground. With true Esteem and great respect I am Dear Sir Your very", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00088", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Robert Fulton, 14 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Fulton, Robert\n                        By the hands of Doctr Edwards, I was favoured with your Treatise on the\n                            improvement of Canal Navigation. For your goodness in sending it to me, I pray you to accept\n                        The subject is interesting, and I dare presume is well treated; but as the Book\n                            came to me in the midst of busy preparatory scenes for Congress, I have not had leisure yet\n                            to give it the perusal which the importance of such a work would merit. I shall do it, with\n                            pleasure I am persuaded, when I have. With esteem I am Sir Your Obedient and Obliged Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00090", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Tobias Lear, 14 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lear, Tobias\n                        Immediately upon the receipt of your letter of the 2d instant, I sent a\n                            transcript of so much of it as related to Maria, and the daughter of Colo. Ball, to Mr Van\n                            Vleck; with a request that he would answer the queries which were propounded therein, under\n                            a cover to me. Enclosed is his answer, and of course you will inform Colo. Ball thereof.\n                        As I know that many unsuccessful applications had\n                            been made for admission into the young Ladies School at Bethleham about the time I wrote to\n                            Mr Van Vleck, the reception of Marie & her Cousin must be considered as a particular\n                            favour, and Colo. Ball should make a point of it to be exact in complying with the\n                            requisitions that are enumerated in the Directors Letter.\n                        A treatise, on the improvement of Canal Navigation, came to my hand by Doctr\n                            Edwards as a present from the Author, a few days ago. As I shall have no time to look into\n                            it while I remain in this City. I make a deposit of it with you, until I return to Mount\n                            Vernon. According to Doctr Edwards account, Fultons system is putting Lock Navigation out of vogue. I have not read a page in the Book\u2014but if the\n                            Potomack company can extract any thing useful from it I shall feel happy in having sent it\n                            to you. We are all well, except having bad colds, and join in best wishes\n                            for yourself & family. I am Your affectionate\n                            P.S. Pray procure me 200 weight of good butter against our arrival at\n                                Mount Vernon which in all likelihood will be by the middle of March.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00091", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Rufus King, 15 December 1796\nFrom: King, Rufus\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I have the Honor to inclose a copy of the Gazette, containing a Publication of\n                            the Chancery Order, you sent me for that Purpose.\n                        I shall forward other Copies by future Opportunities, And have the Honor to be,\n                            with perfect Respect & Esteem Sir Yr ob. & faithful Serv.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00093", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander White, 15 December 1796\nFrom: White, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Mrs White remained three weeks in Washington without coming to a determination\n                            respecting her future residence; the business of the City pressing I did not accompany her\n                            home. And altho\u2019 I expected to be informed of the result of her reflections by letter after\n                            her arrival at her own House, she declined giving an opinion till we should meet again\u2014Last\n                            thursday I arrived at this place, and found her mind so strongly bent against a removal,\n                            that my resignation must be the consequence, unless my personal attendance may be considered\n                            as sufficient  My Court business is so far disposed of and I shall\n                            make such Arrangements with respect to my property, that I have no doubt of being able to\n                            perform my full share of the duties of the office, if under existing circumstances, the\n                            residence of my Family ought to be dispensed with. I shall\n                            chearfully acquiesce in whatever you may determine in that respect, and shall ever retain a\n                            grateful sense of the honor done me in appointing me a Commissioner of the Federal\n                            Buildings, and by the terms in which you have more than once expressed your wishes for my\n                            continuance in that office.\n                         My Colleagues were of opinion, that my presence in the City would not be\n                            necessary till about the 10th of January\u2014I shall remain at home till near that time unless I\n                            should be particularly called upon\u2014I presume it will be proper for me to continue in Office\n                            till a Successor is appointed or at least fixed on so as to succeed immediately in my\n                            resignation\u2014but an early intimation of your decision on the principal point will oblige me,\n                            as my domestic Arrangements will be regulated accordingly.\n                        It is with extreme regret that I intrude one moment on that time which is so\n                            fully engrossed by objects more important\u2014I am with Sentiments of the highest Respect Sir", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00094", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Blair, 16 December 1796\nFrom: Blair, John\nTo: Washington, George\n                        The inclosed letter will acquaint you with the subject & intention of\n                            my present address, & supersedes the necessity of my being particular, if the\n                            knowledge I have of the young gentleman, in whose favour the application is made, were\n                            extensive enough to justify particularity. Altho that be not the case, yet being requested\n                            to express to you my opinion of young Mr Wm Claiborne, I can truly say, that the character,\n                            given of him in Mr Ross\u2019s letter, perfectly co-incides with the hopes which I have ever\n                            entertained in his favour. With more respect & affection than I know how to express,\n                            I am Dear Sir, Your most obedient servant,\n                            Since my return from the Tenassee State I have been continually in motion and very little at this place\u2014this & this only has prevented me from calling\n                                upon you\u2014not as a mere matter of compliment, but to communicate to you the most\n                                gratefull information which a Father can receive\u2014to hear that his children are rising to\n                                respect & fortune\u2014this happiness you enjoy in both your sons in the western\n                                Country Nath. & William but \u2018tis the latter with whom I am best acquainted\u2014indeed\n                                I may say pretty well acquainted with his progress in life from his first going into\n                                that Country till this time\u2014but when I was last in that Country I was particularly\n                                gratiffied\u2014I found Your son greatly improved by his own good sense and application, I\n                                believe he\u2019s as free from vice as any man of his age\u2014he is intirely free from the two\n                                prevailing & ruinous vices drinking & gaming\u2014he has the best practice of\n                                any man at the Bar and he\u2019s as much respected as any practioner in that Country, \u2018tis\n                                manifest that no man possesses the confidence of the people of all ranks in that Country\n                                more than your son, he might with great ease been elected a member of Congress, but his\n                                friends advised him \u2018twould be injurious to his practice\u2014Whilst I was upon Holston your\n                                son communicated to me that a Fedral Judge would soon be appointed for that State, and\n                                that he had an inclination to fill that office although not so lucrative as his practice\n                                it would be less fatiguing & afford more time for study\u2014I am sure there is no\n                                man who can be appointed in that Country who would be more agreable to the people at\n                                large, and I am very sure he would discharge his duty with integrity & ability\u2014I\n                                promised to mention the matter to you and I have to request that you may apply to such\n                                of your friends as can serve him without loss of time\u2014If you think I\n                                can be usefull to him I give you liberty to refer any gentleman to me who may want\n                                information concerning him\u2014The greatest proportion of my Landed property is in that\n                                State, and I have a common interest with the rest of the Society that those important\n                                Offices should be filled with men of honesty, firmness & talents. I am Sir Your\n                                P.S. I had almost forgot to inform you that since I left the Tenassee\n                                    which was the first of last September there happened a vacancy of a Judge for the\n                                    Superior Courts in the State, to which Office your son is appointed\u2014but I know tis\n                                    his wish to obtain the Office of Fedral Judge.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00096", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 16 December 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n                        The Secretary of State respectfully lays before the President of the United\n                            States a list of appointments which have been made during the recess of the Senate. The list\n                            No. 2. accompanies the former, mentioning, where known, the occasion of those appointments.\n                        The Secretary had the first list prepared in that simple form, because he\n                            thought it might seem to the President unpleasant to note the cause of some of the\n                            appointments; for instance, the recall of Mr Monroe, and the removal of Mr Parish the Consul\n                            at Hamburg; for if the causes are noticed in his nomination, they will appear in the public\n                            papers, and as if announced by his authority.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00097", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Hoskins Stone, 16 December 1796\nFrom: Stone, John Hoskins\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I have the honor to enclose to you certain Resolutions unanimously agreed to by\n                            both Branches of the Legislature of Maryland\u2014I consider as the most agreeable and honorable\n                            circumstances of my life, that during my administering the Government of Maryland, I Shoud\n                            have been twice gratified in communicating to you the unanimous and unreserved approbation\n                            of my Countrymen of your Public conduct, as well as their gratitude for your eminent\n                            services\u2014as this will probably be the last time which this pleasing duty will devolve on me,\n                            I beg permission to add most cordially to join my Countrymen in those sentiments which are\n                            made with such sincerity\u2014with the highest respect and great regard I have the honor to be\n                                BY THE HOUSE OF DELEGATES , December 13,\n                            RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY, That the President of the United States merits the\n                                everlasting gratitude of the people; that his profound wisdom in council, and eminent\n                                exertions in the field, aided by the virtue and valour of his fellow-citizens, triumphed\n                                over British invasion, and led his country through an arduous war to victory and to\n                                happiness; establishing its independnece by a revolution unsullied with a crime, and\n                                distinguished for moderation, virtue and humanity. That his wise and steady\n                                administration of the general government, promptness in suppressing domestic\n                                insurrection, firmness in defeating improper exertions of foreign influence, and\n                                perseverance in the system of neutrality, have continued to us those advantages which\n                                result from a stable and free government, and have crowned us with the blessings of\n                                peace, liberty and prosperity, whilst Europe and the Indies have been convulsed with the\n                                horrors of a dreadful and desolating war.\n                            RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY, That his late paternal address, the result of much\n                                reflection and experience, is eminently calculated by its counsels to secure the\n                                continuance of the independence, peace, happiness and prosperity of our country, if\n                                steadily pursued by his successors, and firmly adhered to by the people; wisely founding\n                                the principles of our political conduct on the immoveable basis of morality and justice,\n                                aided by the influence of religion, learning and virtue in private life.\n                            RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY, That to perpetuate this valuable present in the most\n                                striking view to posterity, it be printed and published with the laws of this session,\n                                as an evidence of our approbation of its political axioms, and a small testimony of the\n                                affection we bear to the precepts of Him, to whom, under Divine Providence, we are\n                                principally indebted for our greatest political blessings.\n                            RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY, That it is the earnest prayer of the legislature of\n                                Maryland, that the president, in his contemplated retirement, may find all the blessings\n                                of domestic happiness, and live to experience the salutary principles of his\n                                administration, operating through his successors to encrease the independence,\n                                prosperity and welfare of the American people.\n                            By order, W. HARWOOD, ClkBy the Senate Decemr 14th 1796Read and unanimously assented toTest Archd Van Horn Clk", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00098", "content": "Title: From George Washington to United States House of Representatives, 16 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States House of Representatives\n                        To a Citizen whose views were unambitious, who preferred the shade and\n                            tranquillity of private life to the splendour and solicitude of elevated stations, and whom\n                            the voice of duty and his country could alone have drawn from his chosen retreat, no reward\n                            for his public services can be so grateful as public approbation, accompanied by a\n                            consciousness that to render those services useful to that Country has been his single aim:\n                            and when this approbation is expressed by the Representatives of a free and enlightened\n                            Nation, the reward will admit of no addition. Receive, Gentlemen, my sincere and\n                            affectionate thanks for this signal testimony that my services have been acceptable and\n                            useful to my Country: the strong confidence of my fellow Citizens, while it animated all my\n                            actions, ensured their zealous cooperation, which rendered those services successful. The\n                            virtue and wisdom of my Successors, joined with the patriotism and intelligence of the\n                            Citizens who compose the other Branches of Government, I firmly trust will lead them to the\n                            adoption of measures which, by the beneficence of Providence, will give stability to our\n                            System of government, add to its success, and secure to ourselves and to posterity that\n                            liberty which is to all of us so dear.\n                        While I acknowledge with pleasure the sincere and uniform disposition of the\n                            House of Representatives to preserve our neutral relations inviolate, and with them deeply\n                            regret any degree of interruption of our good understanding with the French Republic, I beg\n                            You, Gentlemen, to rest assured, that my endeavours will be earnest and unceasing, by all\n                            honorable means to preserve peace, and to restore that harmony and affection which have\n                            heretofore so happily subsisted between our two Nations; and with You I cherish the pleasing\n                            hope that a mutual spirit of justice and moderation will crown those endeavours with\n                        I shall cheerfully concur in the beneficial measures which Your deliberations\n                            shall mature on the various subjects demanding Your attention. And while directing your\n                            labours to advance the real interests of our Country you receive its blessings with perfect\n                            sincerity my individual wishes will be offered for your present and future felicity.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00100", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Wise, 17 December 1796\nFrom: Wise, John,Lee, Ludwell\nTo: Washington, George\n                        By direction of the General Assembly of Virginia we do ourselves the honor of\n                            enclosing to you their address on the subject of your retirement from public life.\n                        Permit us Sir, to join our prayers, with those of an admiring Nation, to the\n                            supreme Ruler of the Universe, that you may long in health enjoy the happiness which your\n                            unexampled patriotism and virtue, have so justly entitled you to. We have the Honor to be\n                            with the highest respect Sir Your most Obedt & very Hble Servts\n                            The General Assembly of Virginia, actuated by the affectionate manner in\n                                which you have announced your intention of declining a re-election to the high office\n                                you now fill, and impressed with those sentiments of friendship and gratitude, which\n                                personal merit and public services ought invariably to inspire, cannot silently behold\n                                an event, long deprecated by your fellow citizens; and whilst they deplore the\n                                resolution which will deprive a nation of its first hope, they are unable to repress\n                                those sensations arising from the prospect of her beloved citizen\u2019s return into the arms\n                                of his native State. On a review of the whole tenor of your life, they feel themselves\n                                stimulated to bestow upon you the best reward which free men can give, and the most\n                                grateful, which a mind like your\u2019s, can receive. They trust that the acclamation will be\n                                heard by distant nations, and resound to future ages, when with one voice they proclaim,\n                                that you have deserved well of your country.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00101", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Landon Carter, 18 December 1796\nFrom: Carter, Landon\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Without further Preface I will proceed to answer your 10th Quere, as to the\n                            Period to be prefered for planting the Pease; which will equally be a reply to the 11th, as\n                            they hinge very much together.\n                        A Field which was planted, in the year 1794, on the 19th to the 21st May, were\n                            pulled up about the same time in August: The season warm and pretty dry. I was absent from\n                            home so long, in the Summer of that year, as to be unable to fix any accurate observation,\n                            as to the state in which they were pulled up; or the exact kind of Weather. It was done\n                            under the direction of a Person, whose judgement, as to the fitness for harvest, had my\n                            confidence; so I suppose he was not premature. My Remarks on these Pease, as they progressed,\n                            noted the time of their begining to run, to be about 43 Days from the sowing. From this\n                            scale a Person may accomodate his planting to his wish, as to the season he chooses to sow\n                            his small grain; taking into account somewhere near about ten days for winding the Vine and\n                            Pod to a state suited to the Stack. There are several variations to be\n                            noted in this Scale, generally speaking. Seasons diversify the progress\n                            of the Pease\u2014and cool weather, in May, prooves a tardy influence\u2014so\n                            that the object to anticipate the harvest, by putting them in the ground early in May, will\n                            probably exhibit the End defeated by the means. Upon the whole I would advise you to adopt\n                            the middle of May, for your planting season, in your first Essay. I will close the subject\n                            of your 10th & 11th Queries with a referrence, in respect to their fitness for\n                            harvest, to the 5th Paragraph in my sketch, in the Gazzette; which shews that you need not\n                            wait, if you otherwise wish, untill the Pease are all dry: If those which are yet green, are\n                            but formed  in the Pod, the succulence of the Vine &c. will sustain the Grain, till\n                            they gradually dry, without any shriveling, to a perfect looking Pea, howsoever small.\n                        My Answer to your 12th querie will explain the error in the Gazzette, which\n                            gave rise to the 13th and taking them together, I will proceed\u2014In the Crop, alluded to in my\n                            Publication, I bestowed a single ploughing; and that it was done at the critical time of running, not of sunning, as the\n                            Printer has expressed it. When I came forward to communicate my incipient Practice, founded\n                            upon long investigated Theory, for the supposed good of my fellow man, I could but leave the\n                            Door open to subsequent experience. Further application of my postulate to the practice, has\n                            induced the change in my mode of ploughing, in my light ground; I can thereby throw up a\n                            better Ridge, to effect the purpose of presenting more surface to the influence of the Air:\n                            I therefore do now direct the cast from the Pease. It is probable that this method may be\n                            objectionable in stiff grounds, by dmitting the water that falls, too near to the roots;\n                            which may possibly injure them: this too I lay down only as a possible case merely as a\n                            Beacon before you; for I have no experience in that kind of ploughing in\n                            such Land. Both ways lie open to my Readers to be adapted to circumstances: Both are good, in\n                            even light land,  and I have great reason to hope the Tryal\n                            will give the adopters of my Plan, in either way, the\n                            satisfaction of uniting profit with improvement. My new way of\n                                plowing had for some object, the purpose of preventing the grass\n                            growing among the Pease, suppossing the latter capable of growing by\n                            means of its tap root, and it\u2019s aerial pasture, where the former\n                                can not sustain,ng to its spreading roots, & dependencies\n                            upon the  soil. The productivenessplo of grass, from whatever cause, will\n                            certainly induce an occasion for more plowing; but the period of the\n                            runing is too short to admit of great increase in\n                            that way; for when the vine spreads over the ground it curbs the Anuel\n                                growth, except the Careless & Jametown weeds here &\n                            there which you may recollect my Publication appropriated some\n                            indifferent hands to pull up Early planting will stretch that period beyond 43 days, and\n                            June planting, in a warm dry summer, as was the case in theCrop  my publication alluded to, I presume will shorten it; so that you\n                            will discover that the Labor in ploughing will vary with circumstances: The most tho will be\n                            found to be short of that which is required to cultivate the P. Corn, as\n                            one is to two, &c. not exceeding even a common summer fallow.\n                        I will here take my leave for this time, and reserve Your Last querie for the\n                            subject of another Letter; as I believe it will, with\n                            all it\u2019s Relations, be extensive enough to employ and sufficiently easy to be read at\n                            one time! In the mean time I am with unfeigned esteem Your very Respectfull and Most Hmble", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00102", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 18 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n                        Your letter of the 11th, with the enclosures, came to my hands yesterday; and I\n                            am sorry to find by it that so late as that, you were still\n                            without rain. I hope what has fallen to day, will have extended to you: here it has rained\n                            the whole day without ceasing.\n                        I do not know whether I understand Mr Alexr Smiths proposition, with respect to\n                            putting the note for 4839 dollars in the Bank, to be discounted at the end of Sixty days;\n                            making the Bank (instead of himself & Securities) liable therefor. If he means, that\n                            at the end of the Sixty days, I am to receive that sum from the Bank without interest\n                            thereon for that time, I shall not accept the offer; because there is neither reason nor\n                            justice why I should suffer that loss for my indulgence to him;\n                            but on the other hand, if at the end of 60 days, it is to be paid at the Bank with interest,\n                            in the same manner that it wou\u2019d be paid by him, I should suppose it ought to be preferred:\n                            however, as I know very little of Bank transactions, but believe that money matters stand\n                            rather on ticklish ground, I would (if you have an opportunity) have you consult Mr Lear,\n                            & be governed by his advice in this business. If you have not that opportunity, act\n                            for me in the case, as you would for yourself, & I shall be satisfied therewith.\n                        I will not have the ground, in which I directed Ivy & the wild honey\n                            suckle to be planted, plowed beforehand. Nor can I find what it is the Gardener means by\n                            saying he has as much to do between this & Christmas as he is able to accomplish,\n                            when one of his own hands (according to his report) is at work with the House gang,\n                            & might be recalled, besides which he has been authorised to employ Frank, Herculas\n                            & Cyrus\u2014nay, even to call for more aid if necessary. If he won\u2019t do it, or makes any\n                            delay, or difficulty in doing it, desire him to give up my letter of directions; and order\n                            Allison to set about the work agreeably thereto. If the ground is as hard frozen as I\n                            presume it is, there being no Snow on it, he has missed the most favourable opportunity of\n                            taking the Plants up, with frozen earth to their roots, that ever occurred, or may occur\n                            again in seven years. and I suppose, after plowing the ground up, would give me a naked\n                            furrough to look at all next spring & summer, instead of a plantation of flowering\n                            Shrubs. I am much displeased at his conduct.\n                        It would give me great pleasure to have the New road compleated, or in a state\n                            of forwardness, this Winter and Spring; but I would not have this attempted at the expence\n                            of more important concerns. As you have crossed the road leading into Muddy hole farm, let\n                            the Road from thence in a line as marked be opened into it\u201416 1/2 feet wide on each side of\n                        I am sorry to hear that Mr Neal continues so much indisposed, for my Carpenters\n                            really appear to me to do nothing; and there is Sall who was constantly at work when we were\n                            at home, is now regularly returned sick six days in the week; and Mima, Dick, and some\n                        I had a letter from Mr Anderson by the last Post, who informs me that it was\n                            not in his power to leave the concern he was engaged in at the time I wished him to be at\n                            Mount Vernon; but that he certainly would be there by the 27th or 28th of this month, if he\n                            was alive and well. I wish it may be convenient for you to stay a few days after he comes to give\n                            him a thorough insight into the business, and then transfer the directions I have given\n                        Shall I not want Clover, and other Grass seeds for the next year? and how much?\n                            As these things can neither be procured, or sent at all times, they shd be noticed in\n                    P.S. What has Frank Herculas & Cyrus been employed in. No mention is made of any work performed by them in the gardeners or other Reports.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00103", "content": "Title: To George Washington from David Stuart, 18 December 1796\nFrom: Stuart, David\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I now inclose you a copy of your account made out by Mr Kieth, and allso one of\n                            the little extract from your books furnished me by Mr Lear in the Summer 1793\u2014Mrs Stuart\u2019s\n                            illness has prevented my doing it sooner. I had considered her recovery as impossible, till\n                            within these two days\u2014I flatter myself, she is now out of danger, and will be soon freed\n                            from her long and painfull confinement.\n                        I hope Mr Adet\u2019s conduct, together with the report of Louisiana being ceded to\n                            France, will prevent our Countrymen throwing themselves into the bosom of France; as it would appear to be the object of some to make them\u2014The former seems to have excited much disgust,\n                            and the latter with great justice much alarm\u2014I suspect the Minister has gone rather further than\n                            his partisans could wish; or too far to enable them to make dupes  of\n                            the people\u2014Our election has satisfyed more than  before, of the extreme\n                                impolicy of permitting any emigrants to this Country, to have the right of\n                            voting or being voted for at an election\u2014They were by far the most zealous, among us, and most\n                            influential. I have no doubt but they have had a powerfull effect even when\n                            \u2014I think it is a subject worthy the attention of Congress\u2014I have written to Col. Simms\n                            on it, and he promises me to attempt it in our Assembly: tho\u2019 it should fail, it may be the\n                            means of calling the attention of other Legislatures, and perhaps Congress to it\u2014To those,\n                            who may be opposed to it, from a sense of obligation to this description of persons at the\n                            late Election, and in the Politics of the moment at this period, it may be\n                            replied, that it is in perfect conformity to the opinion of Mr Jefferson in his notes on\n                            Virginia\u2014Those who look further into the subject, must feel some alarm, at finding that\n                            Montesquieu (whose authority on the subject of government is admitted among all) in his\n                            history of the causes of the subversion of the Roman empire, considers the indiscriminate\n                            admission to Citizenship, first introduced by Sylla in the civil war with Marius for party\n                            purposes, as an essential cause of it.\n                        It seems Mr Henry refuses the office of Governor, a circumstance much I think\n                            to be regretted in our situation as to parties\u2014A Convention Col. Simms writes me is meant to\n                            be called to form a new Constitution for this State\u2014Tho\u2019 it is very desirable, it is perhaps\n                            not well timed. With respectfull  compts to Mrs Washington\u2014I am Dr Sir, with perfect respect", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00104", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 18 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n                        Mr William Pearce having Superintended the Farms, and other business\n                            appertaining to my estate of Mount Vernon, during my absence as President of the United\n                            States for the last three years (ending the 31st of the present month)\u2014It is due to him to\n                            declare, and I certify it accordingly, that his conduct during that period has given me\n                            entire satisfaction; and that I part with him reluctantly, at his own request, on account of\n                            a Rheumatic affection which he thinks would prevent him from giving that attention to my\n                            business which from laudable motives he conceives would be necessary.\n                        His industry and zeal to serve me during the period above mentioned\n                                has been conspicuous on all occasions. His knowledge in Farming, and\n                            mode of managing my business in all its relations, have been highly satisfactory to me. and\n                            I have every reason to believe that his conduct in paying & receiving money has been\n                            strictly regular and just. In a word, I have had great confidence in his honesty, sobriety,\n                            industry and skill; and, consequently, part with him with regret. Given under my hand at\n                            Philadelphia this 18th day of December 1796.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00105", "content": "Title: From George Washington to George Washington Parke Custis, 19 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Custis, George Washington Parke\n                        I am not certain whether I have written to you since my receipt of your letter\n                            of the first instant; for as my private letters are generally dispatched in a hurry,\n                            & copies  not often taken, I have nothing to resort to, to refresh my memory: be\n                            this however as it may, we are always glad to hear from you, though we do not wish that letter writing should interfere with your more useful and\n                            profitable occupations.\n                        The pleasure of hearing you were well, in good spirits, & progressing\n                            as we could wish, in your studies, was communicated by your letter of the 14th instant to\n                            your grand Mamma; but what gave me particular satisfaction, was to find that you were going\n                            to commence, or had commenced, a course of reading with Doctr Smith, of such Books as he had\n                            chosen for the purpose. the first is very desirable, the other indispensable; for besides\n                            the duty enjoined upon you, to be governed by the instructions of your preceptors, whilst\n                            your own judgment is locked up in immaturity; you now have a peculiar advantage in the\n                            attentions of Doctr Smith to you; who, being a man of learning & taste himself will\n                            select such Authors, & Subjects, as will lay the foundation of useful knowledge: let me\n                            impress it upon you therefore, again & again, not only to yield implicit obedience\n                            to his choice, & instructions in this respect, but to the course of studies also;\n                            and that you would pursue both with zeal & steadiness. Light reading (by this I\n                            mean books of little importance) may amuse for the moment, but leaves nothing solid behind.\n                            The same consequences would follow from inconstancy, or want of steadiness, for \u2019tis to close\n                            application, &  perseverence, men of letters & science are indebted\n                            for their knowledge & usefulness; and you are now at that period of life (as I have\n                            observed to you in a former letter) when these are to be acquired, or lost forever: but as\n                            you are not acquainted with my sentimts on this subject, & know how anxious all\n                            your friends are to see you enter upon the grand theatre of life with the advantages of a\n                            finished education; a highly cultivated mind; and a proper sense of your duties to God\n                            & Man, I shall only add one sentiment more before I close this letter (Which, as I\n                            have others to write, will hardly be in time for the Mail)\u2014and that is to pay due respect\n                            and obedience to your tutors, & affectionate reverence to the President of the College;\n                            whose character merits your highest regards. Let no bad example (for such is to be met with\n                            in all Siminaries) have an improper influence upon your conduct. Let this be such, &\n                            let it be your pride, to demean yourself in such a manner as to obtain the good will of your\n                            superiors, & the love of your fellow students. Adieu\u2014I sincerely wish you well,\n                            being your attached and affectionate friend,", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00106", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John James Dufour, 19 December 1796\nFrom: Dufour, John James\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Dans la Gazette de Philadelphie du 1r Fevrier 1796: qui m\u2019est tomb\u00e9e par hazard\n                            dernierement dans les mains, j\u2019ai vu que vous offriez quantite de terre a Vendre sur les\n                            rivieres de l\u2019Ohio et du Kenhawa: Dans le cas que vous ne les ayez pas encore toutes vendues\n                            et que vous soyez encore intentionnez de les vendre; je prends respectueusement la liberte\n                            de vous prier par celle ci de vouloir bien si vos grandes occupations vous le permettent me\n                            faire l\u2019honneur de me marquer les prix que vous mettez a chacune de vos pieces de terres,\n                            afin que S\u2019il me convient je puissent les visiter au retour d\u2019un voyage que je me propose de\n                            faire dans le Kentuky; Alors je prendrois la libert\u00e9 d\u2019aller chez vous pour convenir\n                        Votre Amour reconnu pour la prosperit\u00e9 de ces contr\u00e9es fait que j\u2019ose esperer\n                            que vous daignerez m\u2019honnorer d\u2019une reponce favorable, que je vous prie d\u2019adresser \u00e0 Poste\n                            restante a Limeston dans le Kentuky; Car je ne pretend point grossir la foule des agioteurs\n                            de terres qui entravent si terriblement Les progres de l\u2019agriculture, mais je cherche un\n                            terrein propre a recevoir une grande famille de bons laboureurs Suisses instruits\n                            particulierement dans la culture des Arbres, des Bestieaux et de la Vigne, qui sur la\n                            renomm\u00e9e dont jouis ce pays m\u2019ont envoy\u00e9 pour leur choisir une place ou ils puissent exercer\n                        Daignez recevoir l\u2019expression des Sentiments d\u2019estime et de respect dont est\n                            p\u00e9n\u00e9tr\u00e9 pour Votre Excellence cellui qui en faisant les voeux les plus sinceres pour votre\n                            constante prosp\u00e9rit\u00e9 ose se dire De Votre Excellence Le Tr\u00e8s humble et Obe\u00efssant Serviteur", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00107", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Robert Lewis, 19 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Lewis, Robert\n                        A day or two ago I received your letter of the 4th instant.\n                        As it is more than probable that my tenants on Goose Creek must have resolved,\n                            \u2019ere this, to go or stay; any opinion I can now give with respect to the terms, will have\n                            arrived too late. If the case however should be otherwise, get the best Rent you can from\n                            them for the ensuing year, or even let them remain on the old Rent; as I am not disposed to\n                            give leases for more than Seven years, and wish for more time,\n                            & leizure, to consider the nature of my landed property, than I have been able to do\n                            for some years back, before I even grant them for that term. But if you find any difficulty\n                            in procuring tenants in the manner I have mentioned, you may in that case, adopt the mode\n                            which you yourself have suggested, in your letter of the above date; & confine the\n                            tenants to the fulfilment of the conditions therein mentioned with respect to cultivation,\n                        I have not here, nor do I possess any where, I believe, a single paper relative\n                            to the Land on Deep run. It was originally taken up by my father & uncle; in doing\n                            which, One Warner who was the Surveyor, contrived to leave out about 170 Acres for himself,\n                            as was afterwards discovered, & recovered. My Uncle gave his part to Warner\n                            Washington, and my father left his part to my brother Samuel & myself. The first\n                            division took place during my non-age; the subdivision I left to my Brother Samuel to make;\n                            who had, as I have always understood, disposed of his property therein to Mr Lawrence\n                            Washington of Chotanck. In what manner the latter was accomplished I know not, not being able to attend\n                            to the matter myself. The 170 Acre Tract became mine, but by what means I am unable at this\n                            time, to give any distinct account of,\u2014but think my elder brother\n                            Lawrence who was the acting Executor of my fathers will, recovered it from Warner (the\n                        The original Patent for the large tract was for 5000 Acres\u2014the half of which,\n                            as has been observed, came to my brother Samuel & me, by a devise in my father\u2019s\n                            Will; it was him, not me that sold to Mr Lawrence Washington of\n                            Chotank. I never parted with a foot of mine until I gave it to you. Who Warner Washington\n                        This is the best, indeed the only account I have it in my power to give,\n                            relative to the Lands on Deep run. You did well therefore, in my opinion, to compromise for\n                            the small tract, in preference to letigious investigation of Rights. And you must make the\n                            most you can of the other. Your Aunt unites with me in best wishes for yourself, Mrs Lewis\n                            & the family, and I am your sincere friend & Affectionate Uncle", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00108", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 19 December 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n                        The Secretary of State respectfully lays before the President the draught of a\n                            letter to communicate to Congress the report of the Director of the Mint. His report last\n                            year was laid before each house thro\u2019 the Secretary, by the President\u2019s direction. If\n                            approved, the present report will be communicated to-day.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00110", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Robert Barnwell, 20 December 1796\nFrom: Barnwell, Robert\nTo: Washington, George\n                        No event which has happened to me as Speaker of the House of Representatives of\n                            this State. hath given me such satisfaction as that which prescribes me the grateful duty of\n                            transmitting, to you the inclosed resolutions of the House of Representatives of the State of\n                            South Carolina. In doing this I cannot pass by the opportunity of expressing the deep sorrow\n                            which I feel at your determination to quit that station\u2014from which you have directed and\n                            guarded the prosperity of the United States of America. And permit me respected Sir to add\n                            that whilst I contemplate with fearful anxiety. the consequences of this dreaded event. That\n                            those circumstances which may effect your future happiness. will be for ever closely\n                            interwoven with the dearest and most beloved concerns of\u2014Your Humble & Obedient\n                            Speaker of the house of Representatives\n                            of the State of South Carolina\n                            In the House of Representatives of the State of South Carolina\n                            The President of the United States having announced to his Fellow Citizens\n                                his determination to decline a reelection to the important Office of Chief Majistrate;\n                                this House cannot behold the Event of his leaving the public Service, which has been\n                                long deprecated by his Country, without giving expression to its feeling.\n                            Be it therefore resolved. That the great Merits and disinterested Services\n                                of George Washington, President of the United States, have inspired this House with the\n                                most lively Feelings of affectionate Attachment and Gratitude to him.\n                            That this House entertaind the most exalted sinse of his great and\n                                excellent Character, established on the unperishable Foundations of Virtue, Honor and\n                                Talent, long employed in the Service of his Country, and that it will ever cherish the\n                                Memory of his Worth with proud affection.\n                            That he carries with him into the retirement he seeks, the ardent wishes of\n                                this House for a long and uninterrupted course of Happiness.\n                            Resolved\u2014That the Speaker be requested to transmit to the President this\n                                Testimony of public Opinion and respect of his Fellow Citizens.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00111", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Richard Kidder Meade, 21 December 1796\nFrom: Meade, Richard Kidder\nTo: Washington, George\n                        It is with reluctance that I contribute in the least degree to the accumulation\n                            of your trouble; but when the object of this letter, & my motive for writing it, is\n                            known to you, I will not doubt of gaining your pardon, for the trouble it may cause. I am\n                            certain you hold in remembrance the name of Colo. Robert Stark, the gentleman who met with\n                            such rigorous & continued ill treatment to the Southward during his captivity with\n                            the British. From a state of affluence, at least of compleat independance, he was reduced to\n                            seek his fortune in the Spanish Government, & settled with the remnant of his\n                            property at the Natches\u2014disgusted with so arbitrary a Government & possessing a\n                            temper incapable of flattery, by which he might have presev\u2019d a good understanding with the\n                            Governor & by that means have promoted his interest, he determend unfortunately,\n                            just before the treaty with Spain, to return to his native State with the very little he had\n                            left; he is however still anxious to go back from the favorable boundary establish to the\n                            South, & his attachment to that Country, & has solicited me in such a\n                            manner, to give you the trouble of reading this, that I was unable to get over it. He\n                            informs me that the establishment of a new State South West of the Tenessee will be before\n                            Congress during their present sitting, & that he should be glad to fill any office\n                            in such State, as he may be thought qualified for; he also mentions that he has written to\n                            some members of Congress of his acquaintance on the subject, to them I beg leave to refer you as being\n                            better acquainted with him than I am; but Sir, although I am well aware\n                            of the serious business of recommendation, I think myself bound as I have\n                            undertaken this task, to say that he appeard to me during a visit he made me, to be an open\n                            candid & firm man of good plain understanding, & that his politics\n                            correspond perfectly with the sentiments you express\u2019d publicly to your\n                            Country, I would to God we could all imbibe the same opinions. Pardon me for going a little\n                            further. There can be no doubt that you get good general information of what passes in the\n                            union, yet it may not be amiss to communicate to you that Mr Stark (immediately arriv\u2019d)\n                            speaks of a dangerous French character in the Country he has left, an agent of Genets on a\n                            former occasion, who is endeavouring to poison the minds of the people, by disaffecting them\n                            to the United States & attaching them to france, but as a consolation he further\n                            adds that the few inhabitants there by no means incline to a french connection. I will only\n                            present Mrs Meades & my own best respects to Mrs Washington & yourself\n                            & beg you to be assurd, that I am with every proper sentiment towards you\u2014your\n                            anxious fellow citizen Friend & hum. Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00112", "content": "Title: To George Washington from David Ramsay, 21 December 1796\nFrom: Ramsay, David\nTo: Washington, George\n                            Columbia State of South Carolina December 21st 1796\n                        In obedience to the orders of the Senate I transmit to you the inclosed\n                            resolutions unanimously adopted by them in a very full house. I feel a peculiar happiness in\n                            being the instrument of conveying sentiments of respect & esteem which in my opinion\n                            permeate not only the Senate but the people of this state. I have the honor to be with the\n                            greatest regard your most obedient humble servant\n                                State of South Carolina In the Senate December 19th 1796.\n                            The President of the United States, having announced to his fellow Citizens\n                                his determination to decline a re-election to the important Office of Chief Magistrate.\n                                This House cannot behold the event of his leaving the public service which has been long\n                                deprecated by his Country, without giving expression to its feelings. Therefore.  Resolved,\n                                unanimously, That the great merits and disinterested services of George Washington,\n                                President of the United States, have inspired this House with the most lively feelings\n                                of affectionate attachment and gratitude towards him. That this House entertains the\n                                most exalted sense of his great and excellent character, established on the solid\n                                foundations of virtue, honor and talents, long employed in the service of his Country,\n                                and that it will ever cherish the memory of his worth with proud affection. That he\n                                carries with him into the retirement which he seeks, the ardent wishes of this House for\n                                a long and uninterrupted course of happiness.\n                            Ordered. That the president of this House be requested to transmit to the\n                                President of the United States, this testimony of the public opinion and respect of his", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00115", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 22 December 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Judge Livermore & Mr Langdon have just handed me the inclosed petition,\n                            which is signed by the most respectable merchants in Portsmouth, recommending (and those\n                            Senators from their own knowledge concur in the recommendation) Nicholas Rousselet,\n                            & praying that he may be appointed Consul of the United States for the Colony of\n                            Essequebo & Demarara. This Dutch Colony is now in possession of the English. The\n                            Dutch language only is in use. Mr Rousselet is a Dutchman but resided many years in\n                            Portsmouth, where he married into a respectable family. I am most respectfully Sir your obt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00116", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Thompson, 22 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Thompson, Benjamin\n                        In the month of November, I had the honor to receive your letter, and a few days\n                            since, that of the first Vol: of your Essays, Political Economical and Philosophical. For\n                            these marks of your polite attention to me, I pray you to accept my best thanks.\n                        Congress being in Session, & my time, consequently much occupied with\n                            the business of it, will allow me no leisure until the close thereof to give the work an\n                            attentive perusal; the doing of which will, I am persuaded, afford both pleasure &\n                            edification to Sir, Your Most Obedient & Obliged Hble Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00117", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Joseph Whipple, 22 December 1796\nFrom: Whipple, Joseph\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I had the honor to receive your letter of the 28th ultimo. I sincerely Lament\n                            the ill success of my endeavours to restore to your Lady her servant on the request of Mr\n                            Wolcott\u2014It had indeed become a subject of Anxiety to me on an Idea that her services were\n                            very valuable to her mistress and not readily to be replaced.\n                        My mode of proceeding then, was adapted to my feelings on the Occasion for I\n                            conceived that a Servant (in her employment especially) returning voluntarily of infinitely\n                            more value in the estimation of her employer than one taken forceably like a felon to\n                            punishment\u2014wherefore I gave her notice\u2014this notice however was not given until the Vessel\n                            intended to convey her in was on the point of sailing\u2014nor would it then have been given had\n                            I not drawn from her an Acknowledgement of a desire to return before she knew I was\n                            authorized to send her back, It was the circumstance of her Acquaintence discovering her\n                            intention that defeated it.\n                        I will now Sir agreeably to your desire send her to Alexandria if it be\n                            practicable without the consequences which you except\u2014that of exciting a riot or a mob\u2014or\n                            creating uneasy Sensations in the mind of well disposed Citizens\u2014the first cannot be\n                            calculated before hand\u2014it will be governed by the popular opinion of the moment\u2014or the\n                            circumstances that may arise in the transaction, The latter may be sought into and judged of\n                            by conversing with Such persons without discovering the Occasion\u2014so far as I have had\n                            opportunity I perceive that different sentiments are entertained on this Subject. At present\n                            there is no Vessel bound for Alexandria or Philadelphia when there is for the former place,\n                            I shall (if practicable without such disagreeable consequences as I may think repugnant of\n                            your wishes) execute your directions. I have defered answering your letter some days to find\n                            out the present retreat of the Girl and yesterday discovered that she was lodged at a\n                            Free-Negro\u2019s\u2014that she is published for marriage agreeably to our law in such cases to a\n                            Mulatto. I have applied to the officer who certifies the publication and required of him to\n                            withhold the certificate. The farther measures that may be proper I will give the utmost\n                        It has been remarked that there are many Servants who have escaped from the\n                            Southern States into Massachusetts and some to New Hampshire; If the practices increases it\n                            will be very injurious to many Valuable Estates at the Southward, and such numbers of persons\n                            unused to providing for themselves will become miserable and a nuisance to the public. It\n                            were to be wished for the good of Society as well as for the individuals interested that\n                            some means could be adopted of a public nature to prevent this growing evil and that the\n                            abolition of this Species of Servitude should be gradual as has been heretofore\n                            contemplated. I shall in all cases in which my services may be acceptable to you be happy in\n                            rendering them & in executing your commands\u2014and am Sir with Sentiments of the most\n                            perfect respect Your Excellency\u2019s most obedt and most Hume Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00118", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Hartley, 23 December 1796\nFrom: Hartley, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n                        When I had the pleasure of seeing you on Wednesday, you were pleased to desire\n                            me to give my opinion of the present value of Lands situate between the Susquehanna and the\n                            Potomac. I cannot answer with actual certainty at the moment but imagine that the following\n                            extract of a Letter dated the 24th September 1791 which I had the pleasure of sending to\n                            you, may be very properly taken into view\u2014as I wrote that Letter upon the best information,\n                            It will be afterwards necessary to add the supposed rise in the price of Lands since that\n                            period with such other observations as may occur to me.\n                        \"You were pleased to direct my enquiries chiefly towards York and Franklin\n                            Counties in this State, I have accordingly done so, and beg leave in order to be better\n                            understood in my answers, to divide York into three Districts and call Franklin the fourth\n                        1st District, York valley beginning at the Susquehanna at Wrights Ferry and\n                            running through York County including York Town, McAllisters Town (alias Hanover)\n                            Petersburg (alias Littlestown) to the Maryland Line near the latter place in length about\n                            thirty nine Miles in breadth from three to four Miles.\n                        2nd District, The Lands lying on the right of that valley adjoining the same,\n                            and bounded by the River Susquehanna the South Mountain and the Maryland Line.\n                        3rd District, The Barrens of York including the lands to the South of York\n                            Valley to the Maryland Line.\n                        4th District, Franklin County\n                        Answer to the first. The fee Simple price on farming lands in the first\n                            District may be averaged at six pounds and fifteen shillings the Acre, Dollars at seven\n                            shillings and six pence. Arrable Lands near the Susquehanna will\n                            sell from \u00a312 to \u00a320 an Acre some Fields have furnished the Grower a clear profit of \u00a34 a\n                            year for three years following\u2014Cash price for arable Lands in the neigborhood of York, Ten pounds\n                            an Acre, Meadow from \u00a330 to \u00a350 an Acre, and they will demand the same price at McAllisters\n                        York Town lies 56 Miles from Baltimore 45 from Rock-Run, 55 from Christiana\n                            Bridge, and 80 Miles from the Philadelphia Market.\n                        McAllisters Town is 18 miles form York, 45 from Baltimore, Petersburg is 7\n                            Miles from McAllisters & 48 from Baltimore.\n                        The Soil of the valley is of the Limestone kind, and is rather of a rich\n                            quality when fresh it is generally covered with a black Mould, some spots however are\n                            inclined to Gravel or Slate, from the intrusion of a few small Hills. The proportion of\n                            Meadow Ground to Arable Land, may be as one to twelve more than one half of the arable Land\n                            is generally in Grass for Pasture sown every third year with red clover or Timothy Seed, the\n                            Timber Locust, Walnut, Wild Cherry, Hickory, Black Oak, White Oak &c.\n                        In the second District the Fee Simple price of farming Lands may be averaged at\n                            three pounds and ten shillings the Acre, the Soil is generally of a reddish Color, but\n                            sometimes mixed with Sand, we call it, Sand Stone Land. I have said the Land is generally of\n                            the Sand Stone kind, but there are two large bodies at the foot of the South Mountain\n                            formerly held by Messr Carrols, called Carrols burg, and Carrols Delight,\n                            they were originally held under Marylands Grants, but now within the limits of Pennsylvania,\n                            they are of the Limestone quality and so\n                            excellent that the arable Lands would sell as high as\n                            those in the Neighbourhood of McAllisters Town, from \u00a36, to\n                            \u00a310 an Acre, Timber Walnut, Black Oak, White Oak\u2014Poplar, Chestnut\n                        3rd District, This District is in general badly timbered and the Soil poor of\n                            the Gravelly or Slate kind, and of a reddish cast, often mixed with Sand; notwithstanding\n                            these disadvantages more than half the Barrens is under cultivation, the Wood composed of\n                            dwarf White Oak, Chesnut & the price \u214c Acre may be estimated at\n                        The Lands in the third District have been averaged only at thirty five\n                            Shillings to the Acre, but I would mention that there is a Tract of fine Land in this\n                            District on the Susquehanna called Conejochola\u2014formerly the Lands upon\n                            which the Marylanders & Pennsylvanians used to meet in Battle array, contending for\n                            boundary\u2014say upwards of 2,000 Acres at from \u00a310 to \u00a315 an Acre, a considerable share of the\n                            Tract has been worked for upwards of forty or fifty Years, and is still capable of producing\n                            the best of Grain without any Manure.\n                        Before I proceed to Franklin, I would observe that the great South Mountain (or\n                            blue Ridge as called in Virginia divides York from Franklin County, and\n                            is from seven to ten Miles in breadth a very small proportion of it can\n                        4th District, Franklin is a compact County including Cumberland Valley, between\n                            the South and North Mountains for upwards of twenty five Miles and part of the rich\n                            Settlement of Conecocheague, and Antitem, few situations in America can\n                            claim a superior Soil, it is nearly all Limestone Land, Timber White Oak Locust Walnut, Hickory &c. The County Town is Chambersburg distant\n                            80 Miles from Baltimore, 90 Miles from George Town and 24 Miles from Potomac River at\n                            Williams Port, Green Castle is a handsome Village lying 11 Miles from Chambersburg nearer\n                            the Potomac on the Road to Williamsport 75 Miles from Baltimore.\"\n                        Thus most respected Sir, I have made the extract, and I may safely say I\n                            considered the calculations just at the time I wrote, posterior to the 24 September 1791\n                            Lands in the Counties I have described have risen from fifty to one hundred per Cent.\n                        The Lands round Frederick Town are good, they sell as high (so far as I know)\n                            as those in the Neighbourhood of York or Hanover. \n                        I presume the Lands from Wrights Ferry\u2014to Nolands Ferry, may be placed under\n                            one or other of the classes I have stated, I have no precise knowledge of the Ground between\n                            Nolands Ferry and the Federal City, but the Land from Green Castle to Williamsport is of\n                            first rate quality, in short, no country in America has better prospects than the Country\n                            you wish me to speak of, There may be some small difference in the price of lands (of equal\n                                quality) in Maryland and Pennsylvania, but if the general Government\n                            is happily administred this will be soon done away, I have then hastily endeavoured to\n                            answer your request. Farming and Gardening please God shall be my principal pursuits, I\n                            shall be particular in taking Memorandums, on cases which I conceive to be anywise\n                            interesting\u2014Grains and Grass seeds will draw my attention, the discovery of a cheap and\n                            useful Manure is highly worthy of enquiry. I wish you every happiness, & am, with\n                            the greatest respect, yr most Obt H. Servt\n                            My Letter of 24, September 1791, which may be somewhere among your files,\n                                contains information, which I think is generally correct and may be depended upon, It\n                                will also give me great pleasure to answer any queries you may be pleased to put to", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00119", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 23 December 1796\nFrom: Morris, Robert\nTo: Washington, George\n                        On the 25th of August last I had the honor to state in my letter of that date\n                            what had been the tenor of my Conduct in regard to the pre-emption right which I had\n                            acquired by purchase of the State of Massachusets to a Tract of Country within the State of\n                            Newyork and to request of the President of the United States that He would \"Nominate and\n                            appoint a Commissioner to be present and preside at a Treaty which he would be pleased to\n                            Authorize to be held with the Seneca Nation of Indians for the purpose of enabling me to\n                            purchase the Native right to the said Tract of Country &c.\" On\n                            the 27th of August I received a Note from the Secretary of State enclosing an Opinion of the\n                            Attorney General by which it would appear that The President had not Authority to appoint\n                            Such Commissioner without the advice & Consent of the Senate Upon the receipt of\n                            this opinion I forbore to pursue my object untill the Senate Should be in Session &\n                            now that they are so & when There cannot exist any reason for further delay, I beg\n                            leave to refer to my said Letter that of the Secy of State with the Oppinion of the Atty\n                            General and to renew the request that a Commissioner may be Nominated for the approbation of\n                            the Senate in order that a Treaty may be held with the Seneca Nation of Indians at such time\n                            & place as may hereafter be fixed for the purpose.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00120", "content": "Title: From George Washington to John Hoskins Stone, 23 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Stone, John Hoskins\n                        Yesterday I received your letter of the 16th instant, covering the resolutions\n                            of the Senate and House of Delegates of the State of Maryland, passed on the 13th &\n                            14th\u2014The very obliging and friendly terms in which you have made this communication, merit\n                        The manner in which the two branches of the legislature of Maryland have\n                            expressed their sense of my services, is too honourable, and too affectionate ever to be\n                            forgotten. Without assigning to my exertions the extensive influence they are pleased to\n                            ascribe to them, I may with great truth say that, the exercise of every faculty I possessed\n                            was joined to the efforts of the virtue, talents and valour of my fellow\u2013citizens to effect\n                            our Independence: and I concur with the Legislature in repeating, with pride and joy, what\n                            will be an everlasting honor to our country, that our revolution was so distinguished for\n                            moderation virtue & humanity, as to merit the eulogium they have pronounced of being\n                        With the same entire devotion to my country, every act of my civil\n                            Administration has been aimed to secure to it those advantages which result from a stable\n                            & free government; and with gratitudes to Heaven, I unite with the Legislature of\n                            Maryland in the pleasing reflections, that our country has continued to feel the blessings\n                            of peace, liberty & prosperity, whilst Europe and the Indies have been convulsed with\n                            the horrors of a dreadful & desolating war\u2014My ardent prayers are offered that those\n                            afflicted regions may now speedily see their calamities terminated, and also feel the\n                            blessings of returning peace.\n                        I cannot omit my acknowledgements to the Senate and House of Delegates for the\n                            manner in which they have noticed my late Address to my fellow citizens. This notice, with\n                            similar acts in other States, leads me to hope that, the advice which therein I took the\n                            liberty to offer as the result of much experience and reflection, may produce some good.\n                        Their kind wishes for my domestic happiness, in my contemplated retirement, are\n                            entitled to my cordial thanks. If it shall please God to prolong a life already far advanced\n                            into the vale of years, no attending felicity can equal that which I shall feel in seeing\n                            the administration of our government operating towards the Independence, prosperity and\n                            welfare of the American People. With great respect & consideration I am\u2014Dear Sir Your", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00121", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Landon Carter, 24 December 1796\nFrom: Carter, Landon\nTo: Washington, George\n                            At Sabine Hall still 24th December 1796\n                        I am now to give you some account of an Arrangement which I rather wish to\n                            adopt, than one I have in real practice. The untowardness, so often complained of as a\n                            fatallity, may always be traced to some error in the Man himself, immediate or remote:\n                            Howsoever this may be, an untowardness has unceasingly marked my Life. My Plan requires\n                            appropriate Farm Houses, Utensils, and inclosures; and I am baffled in all my attempts to\n                            fit them out. Every effort I have made, during Life, to have Tradesmen formed of my Slaves,\n                            has had for a result, to be untaught as to the object, but well instructed Rogues, and\n                            Vagabonds; and every Carpenter I meet with is too full of Work to be able to do mine: Nay\n                            the division by Survey is clogged with delay, and remains incomplete, though a whole year\n                            began. I hope you will not imagine I have been uttering the vexations of disappointment; but\n                            will rather admit it to be an apology, for recommending to you what I do not as yet, pursue\n                            with just precision on my own Estate.\n                        Long have the Planters, and Farmers, in Virginia, been willing to admit the\n                            superior effectiveness of small divisions of their Laborers; but few have put it into\n                            practice. The reasons for this superiority are obvious, and have often been repeated; but\n                            among those to be alledged, I may here speak of such as I have never heard advanced. It\n                            would always have been well to conciliate the mind to Labor, not relying on Fear for the\n                            impulse: It now becomes the more essential, since the Minds even of the Slaves grow more\n                            enlightened. The division of the Laborers is creative of some degree of Rank; it presents to\n                            their Minds an object within their comprehension to take in; they see the begining and the\n                            end of their years Toil; and thereby may take it hold by the right end to pursue a clue\n                        The wide extent of the I. Corn field, in the usual collective way, not only\n                            wastes the fertile store laid up with in the Land but it also serves to consume a deal of\n                            Labor by a misapplication of it. A Farm works to the best advantage, when it consists of\n                            only four Hands, allowing each an horse: These Hands should have no interruption from the\n                            pursuit of their Crop. All the fencing, cleaning up &c., should be brought in as a\n                            charge to be debited against the Profits; and the steady pursuit, with singleness of object,\n                            will well affray that charge. An extra Gang may be appointed, on every\n                            Estate to do this as a sole employment; and their Labors will be better\n                            directed, than if they had to pass from one to the other, as is the case\n                            where all is blended: There is cheerfulness in Labor, when it is distinct. To every four\n                            laboring hands there should be one sedate Female to keep the house, cook, take care of the\n                            Children, the Poultry concern, and cultivate the little Garden: Often in\n                            the lesser ailments this Person may take place of the absentee in the\n                            Field. Besides the four Horses, I would allow the Farm four Oxen and\n                            two Tumbrils: & these the Manure may be carried out to the I. Corn field, during the\n                            Period when the Horses are doubled in the Plough, to break the Land and thereby two of the\n                            Hands are spared to drive the Tumbrils.\n                        A Farm, to be wrought by the above appointed Labor, should consist of seven\n                            forty acre Fields; to raise I. Corn upon one\u2014manured in the Hill; I. Pease in two; Fall\n                            grain in two; and Clover or other grass in the remaining two. These\n                            different Crops will follow each other as expressed in the following Scheme.\n                        Fields numberedYears179717981799180018011802180318041805180618071808180918101811181218131PeaseCl.CloverC.I.C.P.F.G.P.Cl.C.C.I.C.P.F.G.P.Cl.C.F. GrainsF.G.F.G.2I. CornPeaseCl.C.C.I.C.P.F.G.P.Cl.C.C.I.C.P.F.G.P.Cl.F.G.F.G.F.G.3I. CornP.Cl.C.C.I.C.P.F.G.PCl.C.C.I.C.P.F.G.P.F.G.F.G.4PeaseF. GrainI.C.P.Cl.C.C.I.C.P.F.G.P.Cl.C.C.I.C.P.F.G.F.G.F.G.5P.I.C.P.Cl.C.C.I.C.P.F.G.P.Cl.C.C.I.C.P.F.G.F.G.6P.F.G.P.Cl.C.C.I.C.P.F.G.P.Cl.C.C.I.C.F.G.F.G.7P.F.G.P.Cl.C.C.I.C.P.F.G.P.Cl.C.C.F.G.F.G.\n                        In this Scheme you will observe, in one of the Fall grain\n                            fields in every year, cl. placed above; which is meant to denote the\n                            seeding of the Clover either with the Fall Grain sown upon the Tilth,\n                                or the Spring under a harrowing of the Grain, & rolled in,\n                            just as a Farmer chuses. Some Persons assure me, that sort of spring\n                                culture does mend the crop of Wheat; but I have never made the\n                            Tryal\u2014perhaps you have, and if so will oblige me with your Remarks: My\n                            objection to the harrow is in a measure removed, in this instance, by\n                                the ready succession of shade in the advance of the Wheat; and must\n                                yield to that necessity there is at seeding to have unevenesses\n                        I think I may well say that this Sceme presents a Culture\n                            favorable to the Earth, and profitable to the Owner. Many People will\n                            have a better opinion of it for the two years appointed for Grass; but it\n                            was not with that View I have admitted a sixth and seventh Diversion; for\n                            I think that is not probably a state of best improovement to the Soil. If\n                            the Clover be the chosen Grass, and that be suffered to advance to a\n                            fitness for the Scythe, to soil the Beast, it then will mend the Land: if\n                            the Clover be pastured, kept low, and hoof trodden; or if the Grass be of the spreading root kind; I must think the Earth will, at best, be in\n                            equilibria. The motive I had for the introduction of the two grass\n                            fields, was to make the Farm complete, by taking its share of Stock, for\n                                the purpose of dividing that as well as the Laborers; upon a\n                            supposition of their thriving better: The Farms too by possessing Stock, acquire a succession of Manure for the I. Corn field: Add to these motives, the\n                            Field has a longer recess from the I. Corn Crop.\n                        The annal Crop for four hands, will be forty acres of I. Corn;\n                            eighty acres of Fall Grain; and eighty acres of I. Pease. This will be\n                            thought by some Persons to be too great an allotment\u2014but you will take a\n                            View of the principle accomodation; which is the simplifying the Labor,\n                                by throwing away the hoe, and performing all with the Plough:\n                                you will take a comparative view of the Labor required to cultivate\n                                I. Corn, and that which the Pease demand; and that twenty Acres\n                                of the former has, in all time, been found within the compass of one\n                            Plow-horse, As to the Fall Grain, the Farmer may call in Hirelings, if his plowing is\n                            throng, as they do in all countries, to assist in the Harvest; and he\n                            will find that his other engagements will well afford the expence. The\n                                general appointment, for the common I. Corn husbandry, is, in a gang\n                                of fourteen hands, about eight Ploughs and Six hoes: Suppose the Crop\n                                to consist of twenty acres for each plough, it will be one hundred\n                            and sixty acres. In my arrangement, allowing the fourteen hands an horse\n                            each, the crop at the rate of twenty acres as before for every Plow will be Two hundred and\n                            eighty Acres. Now admitting that the Hoe is useful to advance the I.\n                            Corn, an apt question may be asked if that advance will make 160. produce as much as 280. Acres\n                            will do without the aid of the Hoe.\n                        One happy discovery, if pechance it can be made, would enable\n                            us to stretch the pease, and consequent Fall Grain Fields, a greater extent than this Sceme\n                            appoints; I mean an instruement to facillitate the Pease Harvest: Pulling\n                            them up by hand makes 80 Acres full tedious for four hands.\n                        I will here conclude this Letter, and if I shall have omitted any material\n                            matter on the subject, you will please to point it out, and I will be more explicit. In the\n                            mean time I shall cease, for a while, from intruding on your\n                                valuable time, till your high Office is laid down, unless you find\n                                liesure to call my Pen again into use before that Period. I have the\n                            honor to be with every sentiment of most true regard Dear Sir Your very\n                            respectfull and Obedient humble servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00122", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Gustavus Scott, 26 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William\n                        Your letters of the 30th & 30th of November, and 5th of the present\n                            month, are now before me; the receipt of which have, until now, remained unacknowledged.\n                        I have not been unmindful however, of the contents of that, which relates to\n                            public property, &ca in the federal City; but, laying it with the two former Powers,\n                            & other Papers before the Attorney General of the United States, you will receive\n                            his opinion thereon under cover with this letter. It would have been sent sooner, had I not\n                            been desirous of a personal conference with that Gentleman; but which, for ten or twelve days\n                            or more, has been prevented by his indisposition; & this still confines him to his\n                        I shall be ready, while I remain in Office, to execute any Power which you may\n                            Suggest\u2014the Attorney General approve\u2014and the nature of the case will warrant\u2014for the purpose\n                            of designating, and conveying the different descriptions of property therein\u2014and it will lye\n                            with the Commissioners to bring these matters forward, as their attention must be more\n                            immediately turned to objects of that sort than mine possibly can be.\n                        With respect to the claims of individual proprietors, to be compensated for the\n                            spaces occasioned by the intersection of Streets and Avenues, I should conceive that they\n                            might, with equal propriety, ask payment for the Streets themselves; but the terms of the\n                            original contract, or cession, if a dispute on this point should arise, must be recurred to,\n                            for I presume the opinion of the President, in such a case, would avail nothing. But, if\n                            angles are taken off, at these spaces, the case is materially altered; and, without\n                            designing it, you make a square where none was contemplated, and thereby not only lay the\n                            foundation of claim for those angles but for the space also which\n                        I have never yet met with a single instance, where it has been proposed to\n                            depart from the published plan of the City that an inconvenience or dispute of some sort,\n                            has not, sooner, or later occurred\u2014for which reason I am persuaded there should be no\n                            departure from it, but in cases of necessity, or very obvious utility.\n                        The Deed is returned. and with very great esteem and regard I am Gentlemen Your", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00123", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 26 December 1796\nFrom: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        The State of our funds will not admit of delay in disposing of some part of the\n                            Stock borrowed of the State of Maryland\u2014Our Labourers and Mechanics will have a month\u2019s\n                            wages due, on monday next; and, also, there will then be one quarter\u2019s Salary due to all the\n                            Officers, who are paid by the Year\u2014The Rules of the public Offices do not permit any\n                            transfer of Stock until the first of January, next.We think it will be best to have the\n                            Stock borrowed, transferred to some person in Philadelphia, who can transfer, on the Spot,\n                            as Sales are made, and as the exigencies of our affairs may require\u2014As this Stock bears an\n                            Interest of Six per cent, we do not contemplate selling more than ten or twelve thousand\n                            Dollars, at one time, and we hope that this may be done at Baltimore; if so, the expence of\n                            Brokerage and the inconvenience of receiving Phila. paper, which does not pass generally\n                        It may be necessary, for our safety, as we are to become individually,\n                            Security, on this Loan, that it should be sanctioned by your written approbation, which we\n                            will thank you to endorse on the copy of the Resolution, forwarded to you, from Annapolis,\n                            by Mr Scott; as we think such assent should appear on our Books: this is asked, under a\n                            presumption, that the Loan will meet your approbation. We have the honor to be &c.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00124", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Pemberton, 26 December 1796\nFrom: Pemberton, Benjamin\nTo: Washington, George\n                            May it Please your Excellency \n                        The enclosed sent me by a Friend with direction to deliver it myself I received\n                            sometime since, but however desireous I might be to avail myself of the Honor it intended\n                            me, I cou\u2019d not think of intrudg, on you when I knew how fully and importantly your time must\n                            be engaged, nor shou\u2019d I have troubld you with it now, but that I conceive you may think the\n                            following communication of sufficient importance to excuse it.\n                        The dreadfull Fires that have lately prevaild in several Towns of the United\n                            States, induced me to turn my thoughts to some more efficacious means of Supplying the\n                            Engines with water, and the Idea of doing it by means of Pipes sugested itself to me, it is\n                            extreamly simple and capable of being Universally adopted, by Obligeing every House to be provided with Two Tin Tubes, seven feet long of\n                            a competant bore of from three to Six Inchs, and All form\u2019d on\n                            exactly the same make, haveing one End for about two Inches deep a little Widend, so that\n                            the smaller end of the Other cd be admitted into it, the whole to be painted, and the Number\n                            of the House to which it belong\u2019d painted on it.\n                        Thus each House wou\u2019d be provided with fourteen feet of Pipe, which with the\n                            Opposite House wou\u2019d make a length of twenty Eight feet, equal to the average porrt or length of each House to the Street, In case of a Fire every house\n                            to furnish their Pipes commenceing at the nearest pump that was sufficiently elevated to\n                            conveigh the Water towards the fire, and by inserting the smaller end of One into the larger\n                            of the Other\u2014with a smart stroke of a light Mattch, wou\u2019d make them Water tight. Observeg that\n                            the small end shoud be pointed towards the Fire or decent, by this means\n                            a length of Pipes cou\u2019d be laid in a few Minuets to conveigh the Water from the Pump at any\n                            distance imediatly to the Fire to supply the Engines, & all the Labor and Confusion\n                            that attends handg the Bucketts avoided. This Line of pipe can be continued from Pump to\n                            Pump to any length and in Any direction, by a provision of\n                            certain peices of Pipe forming Angles with the Others, so as to be capable of being\n                            inserted into the side of the Others, by which the water from the Crossing streets may be\n                            conveighd into the Principle one, water may likewise be brought from a lower situation by\n                            Casks on Cariages, or Buckets to the Nearest pipe in a commanding\n                            situation, no Matter how distant from the Fire as every house is\n                        I shall not take up Your Excellencys time by a minute detail of the\n                            construction of certain peices of pipe to be provided by & brought with the Engines\n                            to stop or turn the water at Pleasure in diffirent direction to the several Engines, as\n                            likewise Reservoir pipes to receive the water from the Pumps,\n                        I can have no difficulty in confideing to your Honor & Judgement a Plan\n                            on which I have built some expectations and that I hope will be found Usefull to the State,\n                            shou\u2019d it meet your Approbation and be adopted I have no doubt you will secure an adequat\n                            Compensation for your Excellency\u2019s Most Humle and Most Obedient Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00125", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Gustavus Scott, 26 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Scott, Gustavus\n                        Your favour of the 15th instt was not received until the 22d. To what the delay\n                        The voice of Maryland, as expressed by its legislature, in the Resolutions\n                            which you enclosed, is flattering indeed, as it respects myself, personally, and highly\n                            pleasing as it relates to their federal sentiments\u2014I thank you for sendg them.\n                        From what you have said of the disposition of the Senate, of that State,\n                            the presumption is, that the loan of $100,000 for the use of the Federal City, must,\n                            \u2019ere this, have passed through all the requisite forms. The necessity of the case justified\n                            the obtaining of it on almost any terms, & the Zeal of the Commissioners (if they,\n                            in their individual capacities, which they surely may do without hazarding any thing) in\n                            making themselves liable for the amount, as it could not be had without, cannot fail of\n                            approbation. At the sametime I must confess that the request has a very singular appearance\u2014and will not, I should suppose, be very grateful to the feelings of Congress. With great\n                            esteem & regard I am\u2014Sir Your Obedt Hble Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00126", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Thornton, 26 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Thornton, William\n                        Your letter of the 4th of the present month came to my hands in the usual\n                            course of the Post; but a pressure of other matters at that time, prevented my acknowledging\n                            the receipt of it at an earlier period.\n                        As you seem sensible of the propriety of the Commissioners residing in the\n                            City, with the concerns of which they are intrusted, I have not the smallest doubt of your\n                            removing thither as soon as you can be accomodated in the house you have chosen\u2014with the\n                            situation of which I am well pleased, as it is in the midst of your operations; and let me\n                            give it strongly as my opinion, that all the Offices, and every matter, & thing, that relates to the City ought to be transacted therein, and the persons to whose care\n                            they are committed Residents. Measures of this sort, would form societies in the City\u2014give\n                            it eclat\u2014& by increasing the population, contribute not a little to the accomodation\n                            of the Members, who compose the Congress; for it is of little Signification to prepare a\n                            house for that body to sit in, unless there are others for their beds & board. The\n                            latter of which are more enquired after than the former, by the present members of Congress,\n                            now in this City. I have always thought therefore, that buildings between the Capitol\n                            & Presidents house ought to be encouraged as much as possible; and nothing would\n                            have a greater tendency towards accomplishing this, than the Commissioners making that part\n                            of the City their residence, & compelling all those who are under their control to\n                            do the same, as fast as accomodations can be provided for them there, & around the\n                            Capitol. It may be relied on, that the residence in George Town, of those who are entrusted\n                            wth the management of matters in the City is a drawback and a serious evil. Holding the\n                            Office of Record there, is not a little complained of. These sentiments, although given to\n                            you, at this time, as an individual of the board, I wish to have strongly impressed upon\n                            that body. with great esteem & regard\u2014I am\u2014Sir Your Obedient Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00127", "content": "Title: From George Washington to United States Senate, 26 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate\n                        I nominate Nicholas Rousselet of the State of New Hampshire to be Consul for\n                            the United States of America at the Colony of Essequebo and Demarara.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00128", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Alexander White, 26 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: White, Alexander\n                        Your letter of the 15th instt was not received until friday lasttoo late for\n                            the Post of that day\u2014of course the receipt of it could not meet an earlier acknowledgment\n                            than by the Mail of this Morng.\n                        I wish Mrs White\u2019s determination had been otherwise than is announced in your\n                            letter, but if I understand the expression of it, as it respects yourself, I do not see what\n                            more the Public could reasonably require of you, than you are disposed to give, when after\n                            saying this determination must occasion your resignation you add, \"unless my personal\n                            attendance may be considered as sufficient\" and then subjoin, \"My court business is so far\n                            disposed of, and I shall make such arrangements with respect to my property, that I have no\n                            doubt of being able to perform my full share of the duties of the Office, if under existing\n                            circumstances, the residence of my family ought to be dispensed\n                        However desirarable on your account, and wished by others, that Mrs White could\n                            have reconciled it to her inclination to have become a resident in the federal City, yet,\n                            tho\u2019 her not doing it is to be regretted, I am well disposed to accept the continuance of\n                            your services upon the terms I understand they are offered\u2014the residence there yourself. It\n                            never was expected that a Commissioner should never be absent from his Post\u2014though presumed\n                            always that such absence would be so timed as to produce no dereliction of, or inconvenience\n                            to the public concerns which are entrusted to their management\u2014and while there are three in\n                            Commission (if harmony prevails) matters may, certainly, be so arranged as to avoid these,\n                            as well as the unpleasant animadversions which otherwise might attach themselves.\n                        I am perfectly satisfied that your own sense of propriety, will never suffer\n                            you to neglect any trust you wd accept, & in that confidence I remain Dear Sir, Your", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00133", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Virginia Legislature, 27 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Virginia Legislature\n                        For your address be pleased to accept my acknowledgments.\n                        That any services of mine should have produced a declaration of the friendship\n                            and gratitude of the Legislature of Virginia cannot but be as pleasing as it is honorable\n                            to me whose highest ambition has been by faithfully and zealously serving my country to the\n                            utmost of my abilities in all the public employments of my life to merit the approbation\n                        It is with unfeigned thankfulness for the goodness of a kin Providence that I\n                            look forward to the period when the first wishes of my heart are to be gratified in\n                            returning once more to private occupation in the shades of rural retirement.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00135", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Charles Lee, 28 December 1796\nFrom: Lee, Charles\nTo: Washington, George\n                        The alteration is made conformably to your suggestion. The address seems to me\n                            to have been studiously intended to prevent a proper expression of sentiments and a respect\n                            to yourself seemed to require that nothing beyond mere civility should be found in the\n                            answer. The people of Virginia are deluded by designing leaders and infatuated with whatever\n                            concerns france; but I yet hope they will ere long see things in a better light. With the\n                            most affectionate respect I am yours", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00136", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Moore Smith, 28 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Smith, William Moore\n                            Fellow-citizens and Brothers,of the Grand lodge of Pennsylvania\n                        I have received your address with all the feelings of brotherly affection,\n                            mingled with those sentiments, for the Society, which it was calculated to excite.\n                        To have been, in any degree, an instrument in the hands of Providence, to\n                            promote order and union, and erect upon a solid foundation the true principles of government,\n                            is only to have shared with many others in a labour, the result of which let us hope, will\n                            prove through all ages, a sanctuary for brothers and a lodge for the virtues.\n                        Permit me to reciprocate your prayers for my temporal happiness, and to\n                            supplicate that we may all meet thereafter in that eternal temple, whose builder is the\n                            great Architect of the Universe.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00137", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 28 December 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n                        The Secretary of State respectfully lays before the President the\n                            recommendations of Charles Marsh to be Attorney of the U. States (in the place of Amos\n                            Marsh) for the District of Vermont\u2014and of Joseph Cloud of the State of Delaware to be Melter\n                            & Refiner at the Mint of the U. States. This will be the first appointment of Melter & Refiner with the approbation of the Senate; the\n                            person hitherto employed having wrought only by the Directors appointment with the\n                            President\u2019s approbation.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00138", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Ann Welsh, 29 December 1796\nFrom: Welsh, Ann\nTo: Washington, George\n                        \tI have had the honor to address you when in Private life, you was  to Say as a Private Citizen you could not do anything for me without the appearance of assuming too  your Excellency  fit to Set as President, permit me once more to address your Excelly  which I am , the high Character you  my  had not necessity  me to make this application.you was pleased to honor me  that Certificate and a Petition. I have Apply to Congress for the  of the  or a Sum of fifty or Sixty pounds a year that I may Spend the Evening of my days in peace and Quietness. They refuse me  Small a recompense for the loss of a Husband and Brother in whose service both their Lives were Sacrificed\u2014to you alone Sir I look for Justice in the Laws of our Country. Your Excellency possibly have forgot my Story among the many Scenes in which you have been engaged\u2014my husband Capt  Welsh who Commanded the  in the unfortunate Attack upon the front in which he lost his life bravely fighting at the head of them\u2014my Brother\n                        Capt. Geo. Hurlbut who commanded a Company of light Horse in Coll Sheldons Regt till in defending a Vessel with Stores in the N. River he receiv\u2019d a wound under which he languished till the 8th day of May 1783, when he expired haveing Sufferd the most excruciating pain beyond the power of Language to express.I leave it with you Sir to take Such measures as your Heart may dictate to relieve a Widow, whose thanks will be all in her power to return\u2014may the Supreme Disposer of all events render the Journey of life both happy and prosperous, and when you retire from Government may your years be many and Happy, that our Legislature may Appeal to you in Cases of difficulty as the Children of Israel did unto Moses, is the Ardent prayers of your Exys Oblig\u2019d and very Humble Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00140", "content": "Title: From George Washington to John Carey, 30 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Carey, John\n                        I have received your letters of the 8th and 9th of September and first of\n                        I am much indebted to you for the interest you feel, to have the imposition\n                            that has been attempted upon the public, detected. With great truth you pronounced it such.\n                            I shall leave something on this subject, to be used when I shall be permitted to enjoy peace\n                        In the mean while I pray you to accept of my thanks for your present, and\n                            believe me to be Sir, Your obliged Hble Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00141", "content": "Title: From George Washington to United States Senate, 30 December 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: United States Senate\n                        I nominate Charles Marsh, of Vermont, to be Attorney for the United States in\n                            the District of Vermont; vice Amos Marsh, resigned. and Joseph Cloud, of the State of\n                            Delaware, to be Melter & Refiner at the Mint of the United States.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00142", "content": "Title: From George Washington Craik to James Montgomery, 31 December 1796\nFrom: Craik, George Washington\nTo: Montgomery, James\n                        I am directed by the President of the United States to inform you that he has\n                            not been unmindful of the receipt of your several letters. He transmitted them to the\n                            Secretary of the Treasury and directed him to report thereon, which he accordingly did on\n                            the 28th instant. By calling on me when convenient You shall have an opportunity of seeing\n                            the report. I am Sir, Your Hble Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00143", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 31 December 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n                        The Secretary of State respectfully lays before the President of the U. States,\n                            a letter from Colo. Humphreys dated Octr 6. just received, with inclosures from Mr Barlow.\n                        There is but too much reason to fear for the fate of Capt. O\u2019Brien. He sailed\n                            from Lisbon the 4th or 5th of August for Algiers, with 225,000 dollars on board.\n                        The Secretary has also received to-day another letter from Colo. Humphreys dated\n                            Septr 28. with numerous inclosures, being copies of correspondence between him & Mr\n                            Montgomery our Consul at Alicant about Barbary affairs. These are not yet read: if there\n                            should be any thing interesting, the Secy will have the honour to lay them before the", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00146", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Isaac Clason, 1796\nFrom: Clason, Isaac,Bowne, Robert,Eddy, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n                        To the President of the United States of America\n                        The Petition of the Merchants, Shipowners, and Masters of Ships trading from the City and Port of New York to the Port of Kingston upon Hull in Great Britain, and others whose Names are hereunto Subscribed.Respectfully Sheweth, That The Trade carried on by Means of shipping between the Inhabitants of the United States and especially these of the City of New York, and the said Port of Kingston upon Hull is very extensive and is rapidly increasing.That Disputes often arise at Kingston upon Hull between the Masters and Mariners of Ships belonging to the United States\u2014that the Mariners of such Ships often desert\u2014and that Instances not unfrequently occur of their being impressed at Kingston upon Hull aforesaid to the great Inconvenience and Damage of your Petitioners and to the Detriment of the Citizens of the United States in general.That the Grievances above complained of might be greatly remedied if a Resident Consul from the Unites States were appointed upon Kingston upon Hull aforesaid.That George Knox Merchant at Kingston upon Hull is extensively concerned in the Trade and Commerce carried on between the Citizens of the United States and especially those of the City of New York and the Port of Kingston upon Hull and that he is a Merchant of much Respectability of Character and we believe he is in every Respect a proper Person to be appointed Resident Consul there.Your Petitioners therefore Respectfully solicit that the said George Knox may be appointed Resident Consul from the United States at Kingston upon Hull aforesaid.\n                            John ThurstonMinturn OChamplinMcDougallWilliam SheddersRobert DaleIsaac ClasonTredwell JacksonIsaac BellHatlett Bowne & Co.C.W. LivingstonPeter EltingSaml MansfieldSeton, Maitland Co.Robt BowneThomas EddyJames ScottFranklin, Robinson & Co.John Murray & SonPearsall Peter SchumacherJno. BroomJ. BlaggeW. NeilsonMurray & MusArmstrong & BarrowArch: GraceWm. LaighGeorge J Hugh Pot", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00970", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Stephens, 21 September 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Stephens, William\n                            Fellow citizens and Brothers of the Grand lodge of Georgia.September 21. 1796.\n                        I have received your address with all the feelings of brotherly affection\n                            mingled with those sentiments for the Society which it was calculated to excite.\n                        To have been in any degree an instrument in the hands of Providence to promote\n                            order and union and erect upon a solid foundation the true principles of government is only\n                            to have shared with many others in a labour the result of which let us hope will prove\n                            through all ages a sanctuary for brothers and a lodge for the virtues.\n                        Permit me to reciprocate your prayers for my temporal happiness and to\n                            supplicate that we may all meet hereafter in that eternal Temple whose builder is the great\n                            architect of the Universe.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00973", "content": "Title: From James Montgomery to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 19 September 1796\nFrom: Montgomery, James\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\n                        I do myself the Honour to transmit a Copy of what I wrote on the 17th and must\n                            apologize for troubling you so soon again but I so sensibly feel the Insult endeavoured to\n                            be put on me by the Collector that I flatter myself I recd but appeal to what would be your\n                            own feelings on a similiar Occasion to be redressed and am with every sentiment of respect\n                            your most obedient Humble Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00974", "content": "Title: From Oliver Wolcott, Jr. to James Montgomery, 19 September 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nTo: Montgomery, James\n                        In reply to your letter of the 17th instant on the subject of the Cutter, I\n                            have to inform you that what has been done in that business was in pursuance of my\n                            directions. I am with Consideration Sir Your Obed. Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00975", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James Montgomery, 20 September 1796\nFrom: Montgomery, James\nTo: Washington, George\n                        As you have in Yours of this instant informed me that every thing relative to\n                            the Cutter has been done by your Directions I must take the Liberty of requesting a Reason\n                            for my not being called on to attend and am very Happy to find it is to you I must apply for\n                            an explanation of what appears to me in the light of an Insult which neither my Conduct nor\n                            Spirit can Brook if there is the slightest shadow of Fault in my discharge of every Duty I\n                            demand an examination of the most minute Parts of it if not I surely am not to be considered\n                            as a Cypher in Business in which I am Undoubtedly most Interested. Whilst I have the Honour\n                            to Hold a Commission under the President of the United States I must consider any Unmerited\n                            Insult to myself in my Official Capacity as a Want of that Respect due to his Appointment I\n                            must beg leave to observe I mean not to be deficient in that Respect due to Mr Wollcott both\n                            as a Gentleman and in his Official Character and am with respect your most obedient Humble", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00976", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 25 September 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I thought it best to wait till I could ascertain the full expression of the\n                            public sentiment, before I should comply with your request, to tell you all, and conceal\n                        Your address on the first day of its publication, drew from the friends of\n                            government, through every part of the City, the strongest expressions of sensibility. I am\n                            well assured, that many tears were shed on the occasion, and propositions made in various\n                            companies, for soliciting your consent to serve another term; which were afterwards dropped,\n                            on reflecting, that nothing short of a very solemn crisis could possibly lead to a change\u2014of\n                            your determination. The enemies of the government, upon their part, discovered a sullenness,\n                            silence, and uneasiness, that marked a considerable portion of chagreen and alarm, at the\n                            impression which it was calculated to make on the public mind.\n                        Such have been the first effects of an address which\n                            still continues to be a subject of melancholly conversation and regret. And I think I may\n                            safely add, that what has been exhibited here, will be found to be a\n                            transcript of the general expression of the people of the United States.\n                            I sincerely believe, that no nation ever felt a more ardent attachment to\n                            its chief; and \u2019tis certain, that history cannot furnish an example such as you have given\n                            Those men who have relinquished sovereign power, have done it under circumstances which\n                            tarnished more or less this glory of the act; but in the present case, there is no\n                            circumstance which does not serve to augment it. With the most sincere attachment", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00977", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Bartholomew Dandridge, 26 September 1796\nFrom: Dandridge, Bartholomew\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Since you left this nothing out of the common course of things has occurred.\n                            Genl Pinckney sailed yesterday morning.\n                        I have taken particular pains to know what reception your address to the people\n                            met with here; and truly declare that not a Single instance of disapprobation of any part\n                            thereof has been found. With general regret for the cause which produced it, all seem to\n                            agree in the solid truths which the address contains. Many respectable characters even now,\n                            think it will be impossible for you to retire, owing to the importunities of, the people for\n                            you to remain in your present station.\n                        On the morning of your departure, Mr Claypoole, (who was wanting to purchase the\n                            round bottom) called here & from what he told me seemed inclined to give the price\n                            you asked for it. He said he should go on to Alexandria & would see you respecting\n                            it. Be pleased to present me dutifully & affectionately to my Aunt; &\n                            believe me Dr Sir with affecte attachment, Yr obt Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00978", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Jeremiah Olney, 26 September 1796\nFrom: Olney, Jeremiah\nTo: Washington, George\n                            Custom House District of Providence 26th Septr 1796.\n                        The Office of District Judge for Rhode Island, being Vacant by the Death of\n                            Judge Merchant\u2014I feel a Confidence in Addressing you on the Subject of a Suitable Person to\n                            Succeed to that Office\u2014and take the Liberty of recommending Benjamin Brown Esqr., of this\n                            Town, Attorney at Law, as a Gentleman possessing all the requisits to discharge, with honor\n                            and impartiallity the important duties thereof, He is Deservedly esteemed by all Classes of\n                            his Fellow Citizens as a Gentleman of Fair Character and Deportment in life\u2014possessing very\n                            distinguished Tallents in the Line of his Profession, Mr Brown\u2019s Feaderal Principles and\n                            unshaken attachment to Peace, order, and good Government, are so firmly Established and\n                            known to you Sir, as to render Any thing my feeble pen can Suggest on that Subject\u2014unnecessary\u2014I shall therefore only assure you that I am authorised to say should you be\n                            pleased to Confer the Honorable appointment on him it will be Acceptable, and afford General\n                            Satisfaction to the Citizens of this State. I have the Honor to be very respectfully Sir", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00979", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Samuel Sterett, 27 September 1796\nFrom: Sterett, Samuel\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Understanding that Mr Paul Graybill of this Town is an Applicant for the Office\n                            of Marshall for the District of Maryland, I have great pleasure in giving my testimony of\n                            his Merits and Capacity. Mr Graybill acted as Marshall of the Admiralty Court under the State\n                            Jurisdiction prior to the establishment of the present Constitution of the United States and\n                            since that period as Deputy Marshall of the District of Maryland with general approbation\n                            and with honor to himself. In the hands of Mr Graybill I have no doubt\n                            that the Office of Marshall will be executed with great Fidelity, Skill and\n                            Firmness, and in a manner that will be very acceptable to the good Citizens of this State. I\n                            have the honor to be With great Respect Sir Your humbe Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00982", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Samuel Phillips, 28 September 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Phillips, Samuel\n                        The enclosed letter, from my Nephew to me, accompanying one from him to you\n                            (which have been to Philadelphia and back) must be my apology for giving you the trouble of\n                            reading this address. I shall only add, that if there are arrearages yet due to you, and you\n                            will let me know the amount, it shall be remitted from Philadelphia; at which place I expect\n                            to be by the first of November. I am Sir Your Most Obedt Hble Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00983", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 28 September 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n                        Your letters of the 17th 20th & 20th instant, have been received.\n                        Enclosed you have a Warrant on the Secretary of the Treasury for two thousand\n                            dollars for contingent purposes, agreeably to your request.\n                        \u2019Tis well to learn from Mr Monroe\u2019s own pen, \"that he trusted the French\n                            Councils relative to us were fixed, & that he should hear nothing more from the\n                            Directory on the subject he had frequently touched upon in his former letters.\" If his\n                            conjectures are right, it will not be difficult to account for the cause.\n                        It affords much satisfaction that Judge Benson has accepted the Office of third\n                            Commissioner for deciding on the true St Croix.\n                        As no fit character occurs to me to supply the place of Mr Marsh as District\n                            Attorney, I request that you will get what information you can, on this head, &", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00984", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 28 September 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\n                        Pay to Timothy Pickering, Secretary of State, Two thousand Dollars out of the\n                            Sum appropriated to defray the Contingent Charges of Government, to be applied by him to", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00985", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Augustine Washington, 28 September 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Washington, William Augustine\n                        Your letter of the 12th Inst. enclosing one for Mr Phillips of Andover, found\n                            me at this place yesterday, after having been to Philadelphia & back again.\n                        Happening to have as many bank notes of the United States by me as would\n                            exchange those of Alexandria, wch you enclosed to me I have done so; and by tomorrows Post\n                            from Alexandria they, & your letter to the above named Gentleman, will proceed.\n                        Mrs Washington unites with me in best wishes for you, and with sincere\n                            friendship, I am always Your Affectionate Uncle", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00989", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., September 1796\nFrom: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.\nTo: Washington, George\n                            Treasury Department September the  1796\n                        The Secretary of the Treasury most respectfully reports to the President of the United States.That on the 8th of June he received a letter from William Jackson Surveyor of the Port of Philadelphia containing a representation against the Official Conduct of Sharp Delany Collector for the District of Pennsylvania, for having taken Robert Hopkins one of the Inspectors from his duty, on an excursion into the Country. The Collector being absent and the Secretary fully engaged in pressing business, nothing more was done at that time, than to submit the Surveyors letter to the President who, immediately directed that a strict inquiry into the truth of the allegation should be made by the Secretary. On or about the 3d day of July the Collector returned to Philadelphia, and on the 7th day of the same month, the Secretary commenced the enquiry in the following manner.A letter was written to the Comptroller of the Treasury transmitting a Copy of the Surveyor\u2019s letter of June 8th with certain documents which had been suggested as being material in the proposed investigation, and requesting him to appoint a time and place convenient to himself and the parties, for the purpose of observing that allegations, testimony and explinations which might be offered, were carefully and impartially reduced to writing.On the same day a Letter was written to the Collector transmitting a Copy of the charge and informing him that the Comptroller would superintend the enquiry, similar in formation was at the same time communicated to the Surveyor.On the 13th of July the enquiry commenced at the Custom House under the Superintendence of the Comptroller, when the following specific charges were adduced by the Surveyor.\u201c1st That the said Collector on the 4th day of June last when the business of the Port of Philadelphia was so pressing, as to require the best exertions of every Inspector belonging to the said Port to perform it, did take from his duty to attend him Mr Delany, Robert Hopkins, one of the Inspectors for the said Port, and did continue the said Hopkins with him from the 4th day of June to the 3d day of July 1796.\u201d\u201c2d That the Collector (after being informed that the Surveyor had suspended the said Hopkins from his Office, for absenting himself from his duty as an Inspector, without the consent, and against the direction of the Surveyor) did insist upon reinstating the said Hopkins in his Office, before any hearing was had upon the said suspension\u2014and for this purpose the said Collector did issue an order in writing, directing the said Hopkins to resume his Office, and notifying all whom it might concern that the said Hopkins was to be considered as an Inspector of the said Port of Philadelphia, the suspension of the said Hopkins by the said Surveyor notwithstanding.\u201d\u201c3d That the said Collector, has within the space of the last thirteen Months or thereabouts at different times, and at those seasons when the greatest degree of business generally prevails in the Port of Philadelphia taken the said Hopkins from his duty as an Inspector for the said Port, to attend him, Mr Delany, on an excursion in the State of Pennsylvania, or into the State of New Jersey for upwards of Sixty days.\u201d\u201c4th That the said Collector has paid unto the said Hopkins, and has charged to the United States, in the Accounts which the said Collector has rendered against the United States, his pay as an Inspector for the Port of Philadelphia, for a period of time, when the said Hopkins was not only not performing the duty of an Inspector, but when both the said Collector and the said Hopkins were beyond the limits of the Pennsylvania District being absent together, on an excursion into the State of New-Jersey.\u201dOn the 27th day of August the Comptroller of the Treasury made his report, which with the testimony and documents adduced in the course of the enquiry and the comments of the parties thereon are herewith submitted. It is a satisfaction to the Secretary to be able to state, that though the passions of the parties, have been highly excited they have mutually born testimony to the moderation and impartiality with which the investigation has been conducted by the Comptroller.As preliminary to the comments which the Secretary is to make on the charges and evidence now submitted, he conceives that it will not be useless to state his ideas of the powers and duties annexed to the Offices, of Collector, Naval Officer, and Surveyor.The general duties of a Collector are.1st to receive and record all reports manifests and documents to be exhibited on the entry Vessels or Merchandize.2d To estimate all duties payable to the public, to grant all permits for unlading and delivering goods, to receive all monies and bonds and to account therefor to the Treasury.3d To employ or appoint all Inspectors, Weighers, Guagers and measurers and to provide Stores weights and measures, with the approbation of the Secretary of the Treasury.4th To exercise a general superintendance over whatever concerns the collection of duties and the execution of the Revenue Laws of the United States.The general duties of a Naval Officer are.1st To receive copies of all manifests, and concurrently with the Collector, to estimate all duties and to keep separate records thereof.2d To countersign all permits, clearances certificates and debentures granted by the Collector.3d As incident to the foregoing powers and duties he is to maintain suitable checks upon all receipts of money by the Collector and to certify the amount thereof to the Treasury when required.The general duties of a Surveyor are.1st To superintend and direct all Inspectors, weighers, measurers and Gaugers in his District.2d To visit and inspect Ships and Vessels as they arrive and to put on board them one or more Inspectors.3d To examine and compare the quantities of Goods entered with the Collector, with the quantities delivered pursuant to permits.The Surveyors of the Customs in addition to the duties above recited, are charged with special duties under their Commissions as Inspectors of the Revenue for Ports; these duties consist in inspecting the unlading and transporting of distilled Spirits, Wines and Teas, and in granting certificates to accompany the same; As Inspectors of the Revenue for Ports; the Surveyors are subject to the instructions of the Supervisors of the Revenue in all other respects they are by Law \u201csubject to the controul of the Collectors.\u201dThe Inspectors of the Customs, are Officers whose duty it is to observe the conduct of Vessels, while in the Ports or within the Revenue jurisdiction of the United States; It is conceived to be most regular that the details of their duties within the Districts to which they belong, should be assigned to them by the Surveyors\u2014the Collectors only have the power however to place an Inspector on board a Vessel to attend her from one District to another District\u2014how far the Collectors may legally interfere in the distribution of particular services to Inspectors within a District is doubtful; in the opinion of the Secretary however the exercise of such a power, without special reasons, wd be inexpedient.From this summary view of the duties of the Officers of the Customs it is easy to collect the intention of the Legislature respecting them and to infer that the following general course of conduct is no less prescribed by Law than by propriety and duty to the public.The Collector is to have a general superintendence over the Surveyor and Inspectors and is to be considered as responsible for a faithful execution of the Laws; his principal and appropriate duties ought however to be considered as requiring particular attention to the course of Office business\u2014The Surveyor ought to superintend and direct the business and duties which are to be performed on the Wharves and on board of Vessels; The naval Officer ought to regard it as his duty to examine accounts and documents, to keep records thereof for the purpose of maintaining a check upon the Collector\u2019s accounts, and to detect or prevent errors. good sense, moderation and propriety require of the Collectors, that their agency in directing the conduct of the Inspectors, Weighers Gaugers and measurers should be exerted through the Surveyors whose power of superintendence ought to be real and effectual\u2014good sense, moderation and propriety also require of the Surveyors, that they should freely consult with and be guided by the opinions of the Collectors except in cases of real diversity of sentiment as to their duties, when they ought to concur in stating for the decision of the Treasury, the questions upon which their doubts arise.As the construction of the Law establishing the compensation of Inspectors of the Customs, constitutes one of the questions to be considered, the Secretary takes the liberty to state his opinion and knowledge of the practice which has obtained on this subject.By the terms of the Law, the compensation of Inspectors is a \u214c diem allowance for every day they are actually employed in aid of the Customs. Until the first day of April 1795, this allowance was a Sum not exceeding one Dollar and sixty six cents \u214c diem. The compensation prior to April 1795 was evidently disproportionate to the importance of the trust; at present it may be deemed truly moderate. Though doubts may be entertained whether the strict Letter of the Law, recd in any case warrant a payment to an Inspector for any day on which some service was not actually performed; Yet a different practice consistent as it is believed with equity, with the spirit of the Law, and the good of the service; has governed: no secret or concealment as to the prevailing rule has at any time existed; on the contrary, the practice which has obtained was freely communicated by my predecessor and myself to a Committee of the House of Representatives to whom it was referred in the Session of 1795 to consider and report upon the compensations proper to be allowed to the Officers of the Customs; no doubt is now entertained but that the uniform \u214c diem allowance which was established alike for the Inspector in the principal and most expensive and for those in the smallest and least expensive Ports, was occasioned by the information communicated by the Treasury.The practice referred to is this; that in the out Ports, the Collectors engage Inspectors to attend at those seasons when business occurs, or occasionally as is found practicable and most economical\u2014the situation of a district as presenting a facility or difficulty of committing illicit practices, the course of business and various circumstances which it is difficult to enumerate, influence the appointment of a greater or lesser number of Inspectors, and the continuance of their pay, either constantly or occasionally. The charges of the Collectors are critically examined and if any thing doubtful or improper appears it is corrected by the Treasury. While however the state of a Port requires the time of an Inspector to be constantly devoted to the public, he is considered as actually employed in the sense of the Law and of the established usage.What has been last said applies principally to the out ports, where but little business occurs; in the principal Ports, the constant service and attention of some Inspectors has been deemed always necessary. for the purpose of securing the services of faithful and competent characters, who possess a due degree of skill and experience it has been a practice to employ such a number as during the busy seasons of the year may be able, with their best and most diligent exertions to transact the business and this number is considered as constantly retained while they devote their attention exclusively to their duties. it is believed that this practice affords the best security for having the business well done and that it is on the whole most economical. It is certain that respectable Men can generally with facility establish themselves in this Country in permanent and steady employments\u2014it is well known that they are not to be engaged upon condition of being liable to be dismissed at short notice\u2014the compensation \u214c diem established by Law being as low if not lower than what is paid to ordinary porters and labourers for daily services, is a proof that an idea of some permanency of compensation exceeding that allowed to day labourers must be understood between the Collectors & Inspectors. If this idea was to be rejected and a different practice adopted, the Inspectors would of course be appointed from a Class of society much inferior to what they are at present; a greater number would be sometimes employed that at others\u2014no skill or experience would be retained in this Class of Officers, frauds would be committed; while the direct expense upon the Revenue would be in no degree diminished.Upon the principles before stated, the number of Inspectors ought to be such as on an average of the service to be performed in an entire year, would be reasonably employed, and such as during the most busy seasons, could be active exertions discharge the duties required by the public. Thus by extra exertions in one Season compensating for relaxations in another.It is easy to see that in a service of this nature some thing must be left to discretion; and that the Laws cannot enter into details which preclude the exercise of opinion; cases will occur in which a partial belief will obtain that there has been a want of economy, where at the same time the circumstances may be too doubtful and complicated to justify censure; to evince the difficulty of forming a correct judgment upon these subjects; a comparison of the expences of collecting the Revenue in two Districts is presented.In the year 1794 the duties payed and secured in the District of Pennsylvania exceeded two Millions of Dollars; of the property imported upon which these duties accrued, one third at least was exported and of course subject to a double expence of collection charged to the public during the year 1794 amounted to less than Thirty six thousand Dollars, or 1 & 4/5th \u214c Centum on the Sums paid and secured. During the same year the duties paid and secured in the District of New London of which General Huntington is Collector amounted to about One hundred and Seventeen thousand Dollars or 6 & 84/100 \u214c Centum on the Sums paid or secured. Thus it appears that in proportion to the duties paid or secured the expences in the District of New London compared with these, in the District of Pennsylvania are nearly in the proportion of four to one, while at the same time General Huntington\u2019s character as an Officer is conspicuous and exemplary. No single criterion can be selected for judging of the conduct of an Officer; and a complex view must embrace too many considerations to produce a uniform opinion even in minds which are impartial.It is not objected against Mr Delany that he has employed too great a number of Inspectors; but that he has to the injury of the public service taken Mr Hopkins from his duty on an excursion into the Country; This is the essence of the first charge.That Mr Hopkins was absent with the Collector from June 4th to July 3d 1796 is certain, the question which arises therefore is, was the public service injured by this absence?The general current of the testimony on this point appears to be, that the principal press of business was in the Months of April and May; in the beginning of June, the Inspectors say they were diligently employed, from and after the 10th of June there appears to have been a considerable remission of business.With respect to the Ship John from inspecting which Mr Hopkins was taken, it appears that his absence commenced on Saturday morning the 4th of June; that no deliveries were made in the after noon of that day, and that on Monday morning of the 6th of June, the unlading was compleated. It results therefore from the testimony respecting the general state of the business, as well as the particular facts respecting the Ship John, that the absence of Inspector Hopkins, did not expose the Revenue arising from that Vessel to additional risque; the injury to the public from his absence, if any has existed must therefore have arisen from the manner of his quitting his duties and not from the absence itself independently considered. On this point the Secretary\u2019s opinion will be hereafter expressed.The second charge is in substance; that after the Surveyor had by a written notice suspended Robert Hopkins from his Office as Inspector, the Collector by a writing reinstated the said Inspector in his Office, before the charges preferred against him had been heared and determined.On this point the Secretary is of opinion that the Surveyor had no power to suspend Robert Hopkins from Office. The power of a Surveyor over an Inspector is believed to have been accurately defined by General Macpherson, the present Naval Officer as appears from his testimony herewith transmitted. When an Inspector is deemed to be guilty of improper conduct, the Surveyor may direct him to desist from the business in which such improper conduct appears; or from all business if the public security so requires, until a Report can be made to the Collector; The Collectors have generally the power of deciding on questions respecting the conduct of Inspectors. Their decisions ought to be made with due respect to the opinions of the Surveyors\u2014Indecent disrespect, or disobedient conduct towards a Surveyor would be a ground for dismission by a Collector; a refusal to dismiss an Inspector, when sufficient reasons were shewn for a dismission, would be a good cause of complaint against a Collector. The power of dismission however rests with the Collector and not with the Surveyor; to admit the power of appointment to be vested in one officer and the power of dismission in a different Officer would be to introduce a principle of disorgination and hostility, ruinous to the public service\u2014It is a different thing to order an Officer to desist from particular duties, or even from all duties until an enquiry can be instituted from what it is, to suspend him from Office, in attempting to exercise this last power, the Surveyor has exceeded his authority.The case has been supposed of a collusion between a Collector and an Inspector of a nature to render the Collector an improper person to decide on the conduct of the Inspector\u2014If such a case should happen it would render necessary a representation to the Treasury for the purpose of being communicated to the President, but it could not increase the powers of a subordinate Officer.In respect to the second charge, the Secretary is for the reasons above stated of opinion that there is no ground to culpate the Collector.The third charge is that the Collector has within the space of about thirteen Months, at different times, when the business is generally most urgent, taken Robert Hopkins from his duty as Inspector, to attend the said Collector on excursions into the Country for upwards of Sixty days.It appears from the testimony that Mr. Hopkins was appointed an Inspector in the Spring of 1793 & that since his appointment he has been absent in the company of Mr Delany during the following periods. from the 18th to the 28th day of June 179410 daysIn the Month of May 95 two weeks & in the21 daysMonth of June 95 one weekDuring the Month of September 179530 daysfrom the 4th of June to the 3d of July 179629 daysAmounting in the whole to90 daysIt appears that during the first and second periods of absence the Inspector has been allowed pay which has been charged to the United States; It is positively declared both by the Collector and Mr Hopkins that no pay was allowed for the Month of September 1795. Whether any pay will be allowed during the last absence in June and July, may depend upon the Judgment which shall be formed upon the charges under consideration.The censure conveyed by this charge appears to be, that the Collector & Inspector were absent at busy seasons of the year and that the public service has suffered.It is difficult to judge of a charge of this nature especially in respect to a distant period, and when as in the present case the Officer best acquainted with the case, being the late Surveyor, is dead. The general tenor of the testimony is that April and May & October & November are the most busy periods\u2014during the last two Weeks of May 1795, the Collector & Inspector were absent; there appears however to be a general concurrence in the testimony, that the public business suffered no injury; so far as the Collector is implicated personally in the charge of neglect, the Secretary conceives it to be his duty to state, that he has known the Collector\u2019s health to be feeble and declining, for some time past, and that in general his personal attention to his Office is exemplary and beyond what is bestowed by the Collectors of several of the principal Ports. Of particular times and circumstances, the Secretary has no knowledge. On a view of the whole evidence there does not appear ground to declare that the public interest has suffered by the absence of the Collector or Inspector.The fourth charge is that the Collector has paid to Mr Hopkins his pay as an Inspector, not only for a time when he was not performing his duty, but for a time when he was absent with the Collector, beyond the limits of the District of Pennsylvania: as it cannot be concealed that this charge bears the aspect of an accusation of fraud and perversion of public Money, it is of a serious nature and merits a particular enquiry & consideration.The first period of absence with the Collector, for which Mr Hopkins received pay is from the 18th to the 28th of June 1794 being ten days.The following rules obtain in the Settlement of the Inspectors Accounts. A book is kept in the Surveyors Office, in which the Inspectors enter their daily services; at the end of a quarter, an abstract is drawn from this book, of the services rendered by each Inspector, which is certified by the Surveyor and paid by the Deputy Collector.The Deputy Collector is entrusted with monies from time to time on account, from which partial payments are made occasionally, during a quarter\u2014the quartily accounts of the Inspectors as rendered to the Treasury, therefore embrace a Settlement of Sums paid at various times\u2014It is alledged in the testimony and appears probable from the nature of the business, that the Inspectors accounts are generally settled and paid, without any special consultations with the Collector.The Law having established the compensation, the only question which can arise, is what services have been performed? this is settled by the Certificate of the Surveyor; no advantage would therefore arise from a minute attention to these settlements by the Collector, and if it were bestowed, business of more difficulty and consequence would most probably suffer.With respect to the payment during the first absence in June 1794 it appears that an account was presented to the late Surveyor, without any specification of service during the absence. & that the late Surveyor refused to sign it, because Mr Hopkins had been absent from his duty, sometime in the Month of June, and as three Months were included in one account, the Surveyor would by his signature to the Account have allowed the whole thereof. But notwithstanding this objection it appears that afterwards the Account was presented again with these words inserted against the absent time \u201cCoasting and other duty by order of the Collector.\u201d Upon which the Surveyor certified the Account in the following manner \u201cExamined and found right, Walter Stewart Surveyor.\u201d The words against the absent time are not in the hand writing of the Collector, nor is there any evidence that they were inserted by his direction. It thus appears that General Stewart knew of Mr Hopkins\u2019s absence, that he first objected to the account, and afterwards allowed it; he probably, though this only conjecture, consulted with the Collector, and was satisfied by him that Hopkins\u2019s absence was on account of sickness or for some reason which ought not to occasion a forfeiture of his pay. As General Stewart was an honourable Man, as it is known that he felt no particular attachment to the Collector, and as the circumstances of the case must have been specially considered at the time, it is but reasonable to conclude, that no fraud could have been contemplated as existing. If the payment must be considered as fraudulent the character of the late Surveyor is necessarily implicated in the supposed fraud with that of the Collector\u2014it appears to the Secretary that a conclusion so severe ought not to be drawn from the facts before stated.The second absence of Mr Hopkins appears to have been between the 18th of May and the 19th of June 1795. In the Inspectors account, the following services are stated: from the 18th to the 31st of May attending the Brig Brothers, Moser from Jackemel and from June 1st to the 9th attending Coasting. The account is certified by Daniel Brower late Deputy Surveyor, in the following words \u201cThe above account is just and true\u201d It has been paid and charged to the United States\u2014It does not appear that the account attracted any special attention or caused any discussion at the time of Settlement.The third absence was during the Month of September 1795\u2014Mr Hopkins has sworn that he received no pay during this period\u2014the Collector has asserted, the same fact. The accounts for the quarter ending with September 1795, have not been rendered for settlement\u2014the affidavit of Mr Hopkins was publickly made and before persons who knew whether he spoke the truth or not\u2014his general character is said to be good; he must be believed; of course the only question is, whether the public suffered an injury by his absence: this as before observed by the Secretary upon the third charge does not appear.The fourth absence, is that upon which the present enquiry has arisen, namely from the 4th of June to the 3d of July 1796. no Certificate of service has been granted by the Surveyor; no payment is suggested as having been made, but if the fact were otherwise, it could only be considered as a declaration by the Collector, that in his opinion the Inspector was entitled to pay, the state of the case being known, there cannot exist that secrecy and collusion which constitute the essence of fraud.To justify the claim made for pay by Mr Hopkins during his absences in June 1794 and in May and June 1795, it is alledged that he was in ill health\u2014in respect to the first period the principal if not the only evidence of this fact, is his own declaration; the distance of time is such that special testimony could hardly be expected; this absence was about ten days and is that absence which attracted the particular attention of the late Surveyor General Stewart.In respect to the second absence in May and June 1795 it is proved, that Mr Hopkins had been sick of a pleurisy but a short time before his departure; he had however so far recovered as to resume his duties; it is conceivable that a Man may attend to business, when a proper regard to the state of his health would justify or require relaxation; it is credible that self love may justify to a virtuous mind the presentation of an account for pay on the ground of indisposition when in fact no injury to health was to be justly apprehended from a customary attention to business\u2014it is possible that a man whose general character is unexceptionable, may have fraudulently affected sickness as a pretext for indulging his pleasures; on the facts stated different minds will form different conclusions in respect to the conduct of Mr Hopkins; to the Secretary they do not appear sufficiently marked to justify a public imputation of fraud.It has been stated that the Inspector\u2019s accounts contain charges for specific services, when in fact no such services were performed; this is true and requires explanation. It appears to have been a practice with the Inspectors, during the sickness or necessary absence of their comrades to perform services on account of each other, and to enter the services of the substitute in the account of the person for whom they were performed. This has been done and allowed by the present Surveyor, the practice is inaccurate and must be corrected; every account ought to contain true recital of facts, which it now appears the Inspector\u2019s account do not: But though inaccurate the practice cannot be called fraudulent; as it has obtained both before and since the charges now under consideration were presented.A circumstance happened in the course of the enquiry, upon which the Surveyor has remarked with great asperity, and as appears to the Secretary upon mistaken principles; The case is as follows.On the settlement of the Collector\u2019s accounts for the quarter ending\u2014December 31st 1794 in the Comptrollers Office, certain deductions had been made from the charges for the services of Inspectors, for which deductions the following reasons were communicated to the Collector.\u201cThe accounts of David Rose and Jonas Simonds Inspectors are suspended for explanation; as they do not specify according to the usual practice the particular duties on which they were employed during the time for which the compensation is charged.\u201d This information was communicated to the Collector in November 1795.On the examination before the Comptroller the Collector proposed to the Inspectors from whose accounts deductions had been made, the following question, \u201cwhat has been the usual practice among the Inspectors with respect to their mutually accommodating and assisting each other in case of absence of duty, from sickness, or from any other cause, and has it been usual or not, for their accounts to be allowed and paid during the time of such absence.\u201dThe answers to the question were in substance, that it has been the usual practice, when an Inspector was sick or wished to be absent for a short time to engage some other Inspector, to exert himself to have the duty of the sick or absent person performed, and that in such case pay has been allowed.It is alledged by the Surveyor, that the proceedings of the Treasury above referred to, establish a negative to the facts stated by the Inspectors in their reply; that the Collector knew of these proceedings\u2014and that he improperly permitted the Inspectors to give erroneous answers.To the Secretary, it appears, that the proceedings of the Treasury establish nothing but that the accounts referred to, appeared to be informal or incorrect and were suspended for explanation, they were not disallowed. besides the question of the Collector evidently had reference to the usages of the Custom House: The answers of the Inspectors were doubtless correct and at any rate could not have been different, if all the proceedings of the Treasury above referred to, had been fully explained at the time.On a deliberate view of the whole subject it appears to the Secretary, that there is no sufficient ground whereon to establish a charge of fraud or wilful neglect of duty against either the Collector or Inspector Hopkins; it nevertheless appears that in two particulars the conduct of the Collector is liable to a just criticism, for which an admonition will be proper.1st It appears that leave of absence was granted to Mr Hopkins, without any consultation with the Surveyor, and that a direct application was authorized by the Collector to an Inspector to take charge of the Ship John on board which Mr Hopkins was doing duty without any previous conference with the said Surveyor.It appears to the Secretary that the Collector was not justified by the occasion in such an interference with the usual duties of the Surveyor and that considerations of duty policy and respect, ought to have produced a style of conduct less disagreeable, there is reason to believe that on other occasions, the Collector has been less circumspect in his demeanour towards the former and present Surveyor than was proper, that he has really given just cause for discontent, and that this error requires correction to prevent a diminution of that influence and discipline which the Surveyors ought to maintain over the Inspectors.2nd There appear in the repeated excursions of the Collector in company with Mr Hopkins indications of intimacy and partiality, which have generated discontents among the Officers in some degree injurious to the public service; whether this intimacy was or was not founded on the amiable motives stated by the Collector, it has been certainly indiscreet, and such ought not to have been publickly manifested.Though the principles of the usage established for compensating Inspectors is deemed unexceptionable, yet the Collector ought to be informed that great care is necessary to prevent abuses; and that compensation ought not therefore to be made except when sickness is apparent, or for such short and occasional absences as urgent business may require and during which the public business can and shall be faithfully and effectually performed by a substitute. All which is most respectfully submitted by.\n                            Oliv. Wolcott JrSecy of the Treasury", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00990", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Carey, 1 October 1796\nFrom: Carey, John\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I have the honor of transmitting to Your Excellency a copy of the Critical\n                            Review, containing remarks on a publication which bears your name, as mentioned in a letter\n                            of Sept. 9, which I took the liberty of addressing to Your Excellency, by the brig. Diana,\n                            Potts. At the same time I beg leave to assure Your Excellency, that, had I then known from\n                            what source the letters were derived, I should not have thought it worth while to trouble\n                            Your Excely on the subject. To the politeness of the American minister, Mr King, I am\n                            indebted for my knowledge of the origin of the fabrication, which of course rendered it\n                            necessary to make many alterations from the manuscript inclosed in the letter above\n                        I conclude, Sir, by requesting that Your Excellency will indulgently pardon my\n                            presumption in addressing you at all on the occasion; and believe me to be, with sentiments\n                            of heart-felt respect, Your Excellency\u2019s very sincere well-wisher, and most obedient humble\n                            P.S. A report, circulated here, of Your Excellency\u2019s declared intention to retire from public life about this\n                                time, induced me to take the precaution observable in this as well as the former packet\n                                (of Sept. 9), lest a successor, or any one else should think himself entitled to inspect\n                                the contents, as being addressed to the \"President of the United States.\" Another copy\n                                of the Review, with a duplicate of these lines, is forwarded by the Fame, Harris, bound", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00991", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 1 October 1796\nFrom: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        We enclose a copy of a Letter from Messrs Morris & Nicholson respecting\n                            the completion of their titles; and supposing that the most eligible mode of accommodating\n                            those gentlemen, as well as all others Similarly circumstanced, will be, to obtain a\n                            conveyance from the Trustees to the Commissioners, agreeably to a clause in the Deeds of\n                            Trust, authorising such conveyance; we also enclose a form of request, which we think proper\n                            to be used by the president on the occasion, should he approve of the measure\u2014We are, with", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00994", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Thornton, 1 October 1796\nFrom: Thornton, William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        After writing the inclosed I heard it suggested that if the Square now\n                            contemplated for a Hospital should not be divided into Lots it might not be improper to\n                            recommend it for an University\u2014In this Case it would be necessary to point out another Seite\n                            for a Hospital, but I do not hesitate to say there is no place equal to this for that\n                            purpose in the whole City. It will also be admitted I hope on mature Consideration that the\n                            Seite already recommended for a National University is so much superior to the other that\n                            there can be no hesitation in fixing it, especially as the Library & Museum would be\n                            objects of gratification to the more refined Members of Society, who would inhabit, most\n                            probably, the portion of the City remote from Trade. I am sir &c.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00995", "content": "Title: Account with Frederick Kitt, 3 October 1796\nFrom: \nTo: \n                        Recd of B. Dandridge Fifty one dollars & 41 Cents to purchase Sundries\n                            for the President\u2019s household.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00997", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Thomas Beall, 3 October 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Beall, Thomas,Gantt, John Mackall\n                        Whereas in and by certain Deeds executed by Notley Young and others proprietors\n                            of land within the City of Washington whereby the whole land of the said Notley Young\n                            & others in the said City is vested in you subject to the trusts in the said Deeds\n                            mentioned, it is among other things provided that you shall on the request of the President\n                            of the United States for the time being convey all or any part of the said Land which shall\n                            not then be conveyed in execution of the trusts aforesaid to such person or persons as he\n                            shall appoint in fee simple. I do therefore in order to prevent any difficulties which may\n                            occur in the execution of the said trusts request you to convey all Lands now vested in you\n                            by the said Deeds from the said Notley Young and others within the said City to Gustavus\n                            Scott, William Thornton, and Alexander White Commissioners appointed under the Act of\n                            Congress entitled \"An Act for establishing the temporary and permanent seat of the\n                            Government of the United States in fee-simple subject to the trusts yet remaining to be\n                            executed.\" Given under my hand this third day of October in the Year One thousand Seven", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-00998", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Smith, 4 October 1796\nFrom: Smith, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I am Justly indedted to You for flour purchd to Amount of Six thousand four\n                            hundred & thirty nine Dollars which will become Due on the twenty fourth Day of\n                            November I Only have to Observe that I have been misfortunate in Some of my purchases the\n                            last Season and from that Considderation I take the liberty of Addressing you at present and\n                            if Consistant with Your Conveniance Shall Esteem it a Singular favour to Lend me Your mony\n                            for twelve months or Shorter time as may best Sute Yourself I Shall make You perfeckly Safe\n                            in the payment and Allow Six pr Cent intrest which we pay the bank if I am Obliged to pay\n                            the mony at the time it becomes Due it will Cramp me much in my buying at this perticuler\n                            time a few lines from You will much Oblige Your Obedint Hule Sart\n                            P.S. if not Conveniant to Spare the mony you Shall be paid punttaly if I\n                                Should be Obliged to make a Sacrafice to Rase it.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01000", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 5 October 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I have been honoured with your letter of the 28th ulto. A subsequent letter\n                            from Mr Monroe covered the copy of one from Dela Croix, the minister of the French Republic\n                            for foreign affairs, in which he still manifests some dissatisfaction: but this was so\n                            contrary to the information given by a member of the Directory to Mr Monroe, that the latter\n                            says he supposes the act to be that of the minister alone, and not of the Directory. De la\n                            Croix letter had respect only to the British treaty, in consequence of the Congress having\n                            decided to make provision to carry it into effect.\n                        Yesterday I received a letter dated the 29th of July at Bourdeaux from Mr\n                            Fenwick, inclosing the copy of a letter from Mr Donaldson, by which it seems an American\n                            Vessel has been captured by the Tunissians, even before the expiration of the truce he had\n                            formed with the Dey. A copy of Mr Donaldson\u2019s letter is inclosed. But by the same\n                            communication you will be happy to learn that our prisoners in Algiers had been released,\n                            and were arrived near the port of Marseilles. An extract of Mr Cathalan\u2019s letter containing\n                            this information is also inclosed. I have the honor to be with the highest respect Sir, your\n                            This moment I am informed by letter from Tunis that the american Schooner\n                                Eliza Saml Graves, has been sent in there by one of their privateers contrary to an\n                                arrangement made by me in november last, and will not expire until the 8th instant.\n                            You will do well to caution my Countrymen against the Cruizers of Tunis\n                                Extract of a letter from S. Cathalan Jr to Joseph Fenwick Consul at\n                            \"Just now a fisherman is sent to me by the Danish Captain of a Ship\n                                entering into Pomeque (the Island in this Road where Ships from Levant or Barbary are to\n                                perform quarantine) from Algiers, with all the americans who were there in slavery.\"", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01001", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Law, 6 October 1796\nFrom: Law, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Mrs Stuart having written of her indisposition, Patty & Mr Peters\n                            & Eliza & I set off on Wednesday morng for this place\n                            with Mr Stuarts two Horses & mine but Mr Stuarts two were so viciously obstinate\n                            that we were detained 5 hours in sight of George Town\u2014it is with pleasure that I inform you\n                            of Mrs Stuart being much better.\n                        Enclosed is a Lre written at Mount Vernon in Augt last, but\n                            which I would not send from an apprehension lest I\n                            should intrude upon more important business at Philadelphia\u2014the Commrs\n                            have now addressed you upon that subject, but with regret I found other parts of their\n                            Letter by no means so agreeable.\n                        A desire to promote a City to which I have strongly evinced my\n                            partiality induced me to join in one public address to\n                            you from a thorough conviction of its propriety, & I feel a similar impulse on the\n                            present occasion together with many in the City, but am restrained from adopting the\n                             same mode of communicating my sentiments,\n                             lest an ill will should be excited injurious to the\n                                general good & lest it should bear an\n                            appearance of litigiousness, on the other hand when\n                            delicacy of my situation, I feel\n                            peculiar embarrassment in a private animadversion upon a public\n                            Letter\u2014the accompanying jocular Petition being on this subject may be destroyed before or\n                            after perusal as you may deem best, it only remains for me to say that after thus\n                            conveying my ideas, I shall implicitly rely upon the justice & wisdom of your\n                            decisions & forbear to subscribe my name to any general address to you should it be\n                            proposed\u2014Mr Moris thinks with me of which I am proud.\n                        Eliza & I request that you & Mrs Washington will if possible\n                            make it convenient to stay a few days with us on your way to Philadelphia. With sincere\n                            esteem & unfeigned regard I remain Yours most faithfully & Obt\n                            The humble Petition of the Capitol Sheweth \n                            1st That your Petr under a republican Govt conceived\n                                the pleasing & natural expectation that the Presidents House would be a\n                                secondary consideration,, but with grief has beheld himself neglected & a\n                                preference given to the other.\n                                 That your Petr expected that the Commrs of the City & the\n                                public Superintendant of the works & other public Officers would reside near\n                                him, with a view to accelerate the works & by forming a Society around him to\n                                promote private buildings for Congress, but with indignation he sees them prefer a\n                            3rd That your Petr hoped the Commrs\n                                would improve some of the Avenues for the convenience of Waggonage, but with surprise he\n                                saw them expend the public money in a Causeway & a Bridge out of the city.\n                            4 That your Petr has with astonishment heard that the\n                                head Commr has built an house out of the City near the little town aforesaid, &\n                                of the second Commr having purchase Lots & buildt almost as far off near the little town\n                                aforesaid, & is wounded to the soul to have it artfully circulated that the\n                                President has bought a Square there for his private Residence, & that he means\n                                to remove the University as far from your Petr as possible.\n                            5. That your Petitioner with regret hears that the\n                                spot destined for an arsenal & for a Citadel because it is near the river\n                                & calculated for securely depositing Stores & for easy removal of them\n                                is to be done away,, & that a University is proposed to be fixed in its stead as\n                                if the Society of Seamen would improve morals, & your Petr verily believes that\n                                some Wharf or Whare house in the little town aforesaid or near it will be purchased for\n                                an arsenal hereafter at a great expence, because there ought to be one near the\n                                President who is Commander in Chief.\n                            6. That your Petr is informed that the foreign\n                                Embassadors who are offered Lots are not to have the choice of the most healthy\n                                & convenient spots but are to be lumped together between the Canal &\n                                remark that if the South Side of the Canal is as unhealthy as that of\n                                the North, last year the sickness was as fatal there as a Yellow fever, the foreign Embassadors will be frequently changed\n                                & a prejudicial impression against the health of the City\n                            7. That your Petitioner with sorrow understands that\n                                the Spot destined for an Hospital on the Eastern branch where\n                                invalids & such persons may be landed witht going thro\u2019 the City, &\n                                    which the Doctors approve of for its healthy situation is now to\n                                be done away, from a false \u0153conomy to save 25\u00a3 \u214c Acre which is to be paid for it by\n                                the Commrs & to increase the number of private buildings \n                                 Lots, now your Petr has to observe that the Lots are already too numerous\n                                & that by encreasing them they will be more depreciated, & that Ground\n                                which now costs the Commrs 25\u00a3 \u214c Acre is worth about 500 & cannot soon be\n                                bought for 1000, if the City prospers & that by doing away appropriations public confidence is shaken.\n                            Lastly your Petr sees two Commrs residing at a distance & the third\n                                not fixed, & from the above mentd  meditated changes is led to fear that the\n                                design is to push on the part of the City three Miles off from Men\n                                near the little town, & to have him deserted\u2014The Prest not long ago ordered the\n                                Commrs into the City & immediately property rose in value, & Your\n                                Petitioner got a start but your Petr now is told that the Commrs have parried that\n                                judicious Order & your Petr is apprehensive that they mean to give him a side\n                                blow by doing away the appropriation to the East-ward,, & by removing the\n                                University, & the Embassadors to the Westward\u2014the money Chest\n                                has been once emptied witht your Petrs foundation\n                                being finished & the general expectation is that\n                                the funds will fall short before your Petr is finished\u2014the Prests\n                                House is further advanced than your Petr & the Head Commrs proposes finishing a\n                                Room or two & removing the Office there openly avoids\n                                a partiality to the end of the City near the little Town in short the public mind is\n                                impressd with a consciousness of the predominating bias\n                                & everyone is deterred from building near your Petitioner lest the report once\n                                    industriously circulated should be realised by Congress meeting in the Presidents House\u2014Your Petitioner acknowledges with\n                                gratitude that he has received peculiar attention this Year, & he does not doubt\n                                of having plenty of Houses about him, if Embassadors are allowed to build where they may\n                                chuse, & if the Commissioners are obliged to live in some centrical\n                                Situation\u2014Your Petitioner would scorn to request any improper partiality, but humbly\n                                suggests that the prosperity of all & the existence (he may say) of the City\n                                depends upon his being ready for the reception of Congress, & that all doubts\n                                & suspicions of the reverse whether well or ill founded should be done away,\n                                & every future Cause of avoided, which can only be by the", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01003", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John William Bronaugh, 7 October 1796\nFrom: Bronaugh, John William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Yours of the 28th Augt on the subject of the bond you hold of my Fathers I have\n                        I find on inquiry of my Father that he has conveyed the Land to Mr Muse, my\n                            Father says he saw you about seven years ago in Alexandria, and that he then informed you,\n                            that Muse had made application to him to convey this Land, but he refused to do so, untill\n                            he received instruction from you, he also mentioned that you told him you had at that time\n                            forgot every thing relative to the business. but you cou\u2019d inform yourself as soon as you got\n                            to Mount Vernon, and if Mr Muse was not to have the conveyance made; you would write him in\n                            a few days, and if you did not write him he was then to make the conveyance as Mr Muse had\n                            requested\u2014I think my Father mentioned that you and Muse had made an exchange of Lands\u2014that\n                            Mr Muse held land joining your large tract on the Kanhawoi, and as you wished your land all\n                            in one body you had made the exchange\u2014these circumstances may perhaps bring to your\n                            recollection what is the exact situation of the business\u2014The conveyance my Father made Mr\n                            Muse has been recorded in the General Court at Richmond\u2014I am Sir, Yr most obt Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01004", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Gustavus Scott, 7 October 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William\n                        Hurried in closing my dispatches for the Post Office on Wednesday, I enclosed\n                            for you a wrong paper. The proper one is now sent, and I request that the other may be\n                            returned to. Gentlemen Your Most Obedt Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01006", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 8 October 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n                        The situation of the Garrison at West Point has for some time past attracted a\n                            considerable share of my attention. I had scarcely entered upon the duties of my Office,\n                            before I discovered those materials that soon after gave occasion to the Court of Inquiry\n                            upon the Commandant, and produced the Resignation of Capt. Wadsworth (a very valuable\n                            Officer) which followed that event. You will perceive, in the annexed letters, from and to\n                            that Gentleman and Colonel Rochefontaine, an evidence of the anxiety which I have\n                            experienced, and the mild means that I have employed to conciliate parties and restore\n                        It may be said, that, generally speaking, the Officers at West Point are of\n                            opinion, that the Commandant does not possess a sufficiency of scientific or practical\n                            knowledge in his profession, to enable him to be of much use to them as an Instructor. This\n                            is a painful insinuation that I am unwilling to admit. I have however so far regarded it, as\n                            to send Colo. Mentges to inspect and muster the Men, and report the actual state of\n                            discipline and improvement: and I am sorry to add that there is but too much correspondence\n                            between his opinion and theirs.\n                        Ought this coincidence in opinion to fix the charge of ignorance in his\n                            profession, upon the Commandant? May not his Officers have viewed him through the medium of\n                            an inveterate prejudice; and Col. Mentges formed his judgment upon too slight observations?\n                            perhaps too, it ought not to be expected, that the head of a Corps should act the part of a\n                            Professor, or give lectures to his Officers on the principles of Gunnery and Fortification.\n                            Be this however as it may, it is at least to be regretted, that he has not been happy enough\n                            to satisfy them or the Inspector, that he understands the practical part of the Artillerist.\n                        What can be done in this situation of things, that may restore to the\n                            Commandant, the confidence of the Officers, which he has lost; and at the same time, not\n                            retard their improvement?\n                        To separate the Corps into parts, or to detach from West Point, Companies, to\n                            garrison the most important forts on the sea-board is perhaps the most likely expedient to\n                            accomplish both purposes.\n                        By an arrangement of this kind the principal School might still be at West\n                            Point, from which place, an instructed Company could be sent to relieve a Company less\n                            instructed, till the whole by that means, were brought to the same level of improvement. Agreeably also to this plan the Corps might be united at\n                            particular times, either to acquire or to practice, what could not be so well practised or\n                            acquired in a state of disjunction.\n                        One objection to such an arrangement as this, is the expence the public would\n                            incur in making these exchanges. I would submit however, whether this expence of\n                            transportation will not be more than countervailed by the immediate satisfaction it would\n                            produce in the Corps; and the saving to be derived from the Detachments improving or keeping\n                            those works in repair which have drawn considerable Sums from the United States to erect,\n                            and which if neglected, must fall into ruin. Further, this would put our most important\n                            harbours more out of the reach of insult than they are at present.\n                        But to give a certain degree of perfection to the Corps; or to enable the\n                            Officers to become skilful Artillerists and Engineers, it may be necessary, in addition to\n                            furnishing them with proper Masters, that rules should be laid down, relative to their\n                            instruction in the Theory and practice. As yet there is no system for either, and of course,\n                            every thing must tend to confusion. The hours for teaching the Theory, as well as what is to\n                            be taught; the hours for teaching the practice, as well as what shall be the practice,\n                            should be detailed and the observance of the rules strictly enjoined. If the regulations\u2014\n                            that have been established in the Artillery Schools in France,\n                            under the monarchy, the utility of which has been so sensibly experienced by the Republic,\n                            were to be taken for a model; or such of them adopted as would apply to the circumstances\n                            and situation of the Corps, I should expect from such a measure, the happiest effects. These\n                            regulations, abstracted from the police of the institutions, are divided into two parts, the\n                            one, comprehending all that respects the Theory; the other\n                            whatever regards the practice. The first, is peculiar to the\n                            Officers; the second, or the practice, concerns both Officers and Soldiers. Were similar\n                            regulations to be digested, printed, and prescribed to the Corps by the President, and\n                            proper Masters provided to execute them, there can be no doubt as to its success. Every\n                            Officer would then know, what he had to learn himself, and what it was his duty to teach to\n                            others. I cannot presume that I am qualified to form such a System as ought to meet your\n                            mature approbation; but it strikes me, that even an imperfect one is preferable to none. I\n                            shall therefore, should you be of opinion, that rules and regulations for the instruction of\n                            the Officers in the Theory, and for the instruction of both them and the Soldiers in the\n                            practice, should be formed, make the attempt with such lights and helps as I have or can\n                        In the mean while & till the proposed code can be completed; I would submit the\n                            following arrangement to your consideration.\n                        1. To augment the Garrisons at Governor\u2019s Island, Mud Island, Baltimore,\n                            Norfolk, and Charlestown to about one Company at each place. 2. To send to West Point a\n                            person qualified to teach the Officers remaining there, Mathematics; the elements of\n                            Geometry; the fundamental principles of statical Mechanics; and designing. 3. To give the\n                            several Detachments, taken from the Corps, an opportunity to enjoy in rotation, the same\n                            means of instruction. 4. To require a written report from time to time relative to the\n                            progress of instruction. 5. To have each Detachment, frequently inspected by a well informed\n                            Officer, who should be specially charged to examine and give information of the state of the\n                            works, the discipline of the Men, and improvement of the Officers. With the greatest respect\n                            I have the honor to be Sir, Your most obedt servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01009", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 10 October 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n                        In obedience to the Command of the President as conveyed in his letter to the\n                            Secretary of War dated 1. July Ulto. requiring the opinion of the heads of departments upon\n                            certain charges exhibited against General Wayne by Brigadier General Wilkinson, as relative\n                            to  \u201cthe measures necessary to be pursued to do justice to the public, the accused, and the\n                            accuser,\u201d the Secretary of War submits the following observations.\n                        Though the charges against General Wayne have not been all exhibited; and\n                            according to late letters from Brigadier General Wilkinson, will not be concluded till after\n                            his arrival in Philadelphia, the Secretary of War does not conceive that he should delay any\n                            longer, on that account, the discussion of certain questions essential to the formation of a\n                        A primary question is, whether the Articles of War authorize the President, to\n                            order General Wayne to be tried by a General Court Martial? And if they do not; or if the\n                            right is doubtful; what steps will be proper to be pursued, \u201cto do justice to the public, the\n                        As to the first question.\n                        1. It is very clear that the rules and articles of War passed the 27th of May\n                            1777 and 31. of May 1786 can have no relation to troops raised after the establishment of the\n                            present federal government; and therefore the law of the 30 of April 1790 and that of the 30\n                            of May 1796 enact \u201cthat the Commissioned Officers &c.\n                            shall be governed by the rules and articles of War which have been established by Congress,\n                            as far as the same may be applicable to the constitution of the United States, or by such\n                            Rules and articles as may hereafter by law be established.\u201d\n                        2d Agreeably to the law of the 3d March 1791. General Wayne was appointed a\n                            commanded all the troops in the Western Country.\n                        3. The articles of War (passed 27. May 1777) contemplated a General or Commander in chief of the forces of the United States;\n                            or of the American forces Sect. 2. Art. 2 pa. 3. and Sect. 18.\n                        4. The articles of war (passed 27 May 1777.) contemplated a\n                                continental General commanding in a State Sect. 11. Art. 1. pa. 15 & Sect. 18. Art. 2 pa 29. 5\n                        5. The articles of War (passed 17. June 1777.) also contemplated a general Officer commanding in a separate\n                                department Sect. 18. Art. 7. pa 31. At this time the United States were divided by\n                            resolves of Congress into three separate departments, called Eastern\n                        6. The articles of War passed 31. May 1786. contemplated the general or other Officer commanding the Troops. Art 2. pa 34. Art 6. pa 36. The General or Officer commanding the Army\n                            Art 13 pa. 39 The commander in Chief Page 31 The same articles of 31. May 1786. also\n                            recognise a commanding Officer of a department Art 13 pa 39. and Art 23 pa 41.\n                        7. The 25. Art. of War (passed 31. May 1786.) pa 42 directs the conduct of a court of enquery when appointed by the General or commanding Officer.\n                        8. The articles of war in many places mention Courts\n                        9. The articles of war in many places mention General\n                            21. 22. 29. 31. 34. 38. 41. and 42. But it is very evident that the same Court was meant by both descriptions; and that\n                            only three kinds of Courts martial were established, to wit;\n                            general Courts martial, regimental Courts martial and garrison Courts martial, the two last\n                            having no jurisdiction of capital Offences or over commissioned Officers. Art 4. pa 35.\n                        10. It appears that the General or Officer\n                            commanding the Troops might order General\n                        11. It also appears that the commanding Officer of a department might order\n                            General Courts martial Art 23. pa 41 and pardon any Crimes though capital. Art 7. pa 31.\n                        12. It further appears that a continental General\n                            commanding in any of the States might appoint general courts\n                            martial, and pardon Crimes not capital and suspend the punishment\n                        13. It would seem that whenever the expressions used are, The General or\n                            Commander in Chief of the forces of the United States (as in Sect. 2. Art 2 pa. 3 and Sect.\n                            5. Art 1. pa 8. and Sect. 13. Art. 16. pa 23) or the Commander in Chief of the American forces (as in Sect. 5. Art 2. pa 8) or the General and Commander in Chief (as in Sect. 18. Art 6. pa 31) or the Commander\n                            in Chief as in Art 7. pa 32 or the General or Officer commanding the Troops as in Art 2 pa 34.) or the General or Officer commanding the Army (as in Art 6. pa 6) that only one and the same person is contemplated under all\n                            these different descriptions.\n                        14. From a view of the 25th Art. (pa 42) and the 26th Article (pa 43) and a\n                            comparison of them with the different articles authorizing the appointment of Courts Martial\n                            it appears that Courts of enquiry might be appointed not only by the General (or Commander\n                            in Chief) but also by any commanding Officer.\n                        15. General Wayne may be considered in one of three capacities. 1st As\n                            Commander in Chief of the forces of the United States as described in the articles of War\n                                same person; altho there is some little variation in the mode of expression. Or.\n                            2d. As a general Officer commanding in a separate department. Or 3d As a Continental general commanding in a State. The\n                            first is wholly inadmissible, because by the Constitution Art 2. Sect. 2. the President for\n                            the time being is created Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States.\n                            The second will not apply, because the Western Country was not\n                            within either of the three departments created by Congress. The third character alone seems descriptive of his Command.\n                        There results from this exposition of facts the following positions. 1. That if\n                            General Wayne be considered as a general Officer commanding in a separate department, or as a Continental General\n                            commanding in a state, and the President as the General (described\n                            in Article 25 pa. 42) he may with his consent be brought before a\n                                Court of Enquiry, if the President shall think proper to\n                            order it. or 2d. That General Wayne, considered under the said description, may be tried by\n                            a Court Martial, against his consent, if the President be\n                            considered the General or Officer commanding the Troops, as\n                        Upon these positions it may be observed, that there is a certain want of\n                            explicitness in the articles of war relative to the whole subject, which must make it a\n                            desirable thing to be relieved from the necessity of being obliged, to rely absolutely upon\n                            them for the attainment of justice.\n                        Is there any other mean which may be applied to, less subject to Criticism? The\n                            President as Commander in Chief, has power, ex officio, to order\n                            a general Court Martial; but the exercise of this power is no less liable to criticism. What\n                            then is to be done? The President has aright to displace military Officers as holding their\n                            Commissions during pleasure. In as much however as the delicacy of the military character,\n                            as well as justice, requires that this power should be exercised with great caution and not\n                            till after very full investigation; it occurs that a course of proceeding may be adopted,\n                            bottomed upon this power, and at the same time conformable to the course indicated by the\n                        Agreeably to this idea, the Secretary of War submits the following mode of\n                            proceeding in the case. That as soon as all the Charges shall have been exhibited by General\n                            Wilkinson, they shall be communicated to the General accused, who shall be called upon to\n                            reply particularly to them. That if there should be facts to be proved, and by persons with\n                            the Army, that it be suggested to him that they should be investigated by some Court, and\n                            that circumstances render it adviseable, that he should demand the investigation.\n                        As there can be no doubt but that he will require the facts to be investigated.\n                            Let then (which will throw the affair into the form of a court of enquiry) three judicious\n                            Officers with the aid of a Judge Advocate (and a Magistrate if to be had to administer\n                            oaths) be charged to collect testimony for the information of the Department of War to be\n                            laid before the President. Let the accuser and the accused be notified to attend the\n                            examination of the Witnesses, to cross examine and interrogate, and let the testimony,\n                            reduced to writing (Articles of War 25 page 42) by the Court or Referees, with the Judge\n                            Advocate, and certified by them, with the observations of the accuser and the accused, be\n                            transmitted to the War Office and laid before the President, who will act in the case\n                            according to the nature of the Testimony.\n                        This mode of proceeding appears to the Secretary of War the least liable to\n                            exceptions; calculated to ascertain the truth or falsity of the charges; within the powers\n                            vested in the President by the Constitution; and supported by the construction deducible\n                            from the articles of war. All which is respectfully submitted.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01010", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 10 October 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Packet, No. 1. which is enclosed contains the last dispatches from General\n                            Wayne. The private letter included therein, is a duplicate of one not yet come to hand,\n                            which it would seem contains the papers to which it refers.\n                        Packet, No. 2. The last letters from Tennessee.\n                        Packet, No. 3. The proceedings of a Court Martial on a soldier who attempted to\n                            desert. With the greatest respect I have the honor to be Your obedt Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01011", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 10 October 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n                        Your letter of the 5th instant with its enclosure, came to hand by Friday\u2019s\n                        The extracts therein produced both pleasure & pain\u2014the former at\n                            hearing that our Citizens are at length released from their unfortunate confinement in\n                            Algiers; the latter to find that others of them have fallen into a similar situation at\n                            Tunis; contrary to the Truce, & to the arrangement made with Mr Donaldson.\n                        \u2019Tis difficult to understand, precisely what the French government design,\n                            relative to this Country, from the accounts given by Mr Monroe.\n                        The enclosed letter respecting a judge for the District of Rhode Island, has\n                            just been received; and as it is the most eligible choice I see a prospect of making, a\n                            Commission may issue accordingly, appointing Benjamin Bourn to that Office: provided it is\n                            the same Gentleman who represents that State in Congress; otherwise not, until further\n                            enquiry and consideration are had on the subject.\n                        A short time before I left Philadelphia last, a character was brought forward\n                            and well recommended as Attorney for the District of Kentucky; and the Appointment met my\n                            approbation, but whether a Commission issued in consequence of it or not, my recollection\n                            does not serve me. His name I have forgot, but the letters of recommendation (from the\n                            Attorney General of the United States and others) were, I think, put into Your hands with my", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01012", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 11 October 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Last Saturday I received from Colo. Monroe a letter dated the 24th of July, in\n                            which he refers to a former one, in which he transmitted copies of M. Delacroix letter to\n                            him & his answer, on the question, Whether the House of Representatives of the\n                            United States had passed a law to carry the British treaty into effect? At the same time Mr\n                            Monroe expressed his opinion that this letter originated with M. Delacroix, without any\n                            order from the Directory; because (as a prior letter had stated) a member of the Directory\n                            had informed him that their complaints would not be renewed. However, his letter of the 24th\n                            of July shows that he was mistaken, so far as their complaints respected the British treaty.\n                            I will endeavour, in an abridgement, to lay before you the essence of the complaint\n                        Mr Delacroix letter is dated the 7th of July. He begins by accounting for his\n                            delay in answering Mr Monroe\u2019s letter of the 25th Ventose (March 15) because he had been\n                            daily hoping to see the departure of the new minister that the Executive Directory had\n                            proposed to send to the U. States. Then referring to their former complaints against the\n                            treaty between the U. States and Great Britain (for he is silent on all the other topics) he\n                            says that time had sufficiently ripened all the points which were then in discussion, and\n                            far from being weakened, \"our complaints (says he) against the treaty of London, have, in\n                            our view, acquired new force.\" He then says that the opinion of the Executive Directory on\n                            this Subject has not changed. That it saw in that act, concluded in the midst of\n                            hostilities, a derogation from the friendship which united the U. States & the\n                            Republic; and in the stipulations which regarded the neutrality of the flag, an abandonment\n                            of the tacit engagement on this point which existed between the two nations, since the treaty\n                            of commerce of 1778. That the abandonment of principles consecrated by this treaty had made\n                            the more forcible impression on their minds, seeing that all the other treaties of the\n                            United States admit them; and that these principles are besides so generally acknowledged,\n                            that they form, at this time, the public law of all civilized nations. That hence the\n                            Executive Directory thinks itself authorized to regard the stipulations of the treaty of\n                            1778, which concern the neutrality of the flag, as altered in their most essential parts,\n                            and thereby suspended; and that it would deem itself wanting in its duty if it did not\n                            modify a state of things which would not have been agreed to but on the condition of the\n                            most strict reciprocity.\n                        Mr Monroe in his answer to M. de la Croix observes, That this complaint is\n                            founded on a supposed violation of the law of nations, and of our treaty with France,\n                            because in one article of the treaty of London we have admitted that our bottoms do not give\n                            protection to French goods. To prove that by this article we have neither violated the law\n                            of nations nor the treaty with France, Mr Monroe remarks, that the most eminent writers on\n                            the law of nations, and universal practice, where particular treaties do not stipulate the\n                            contrary, show the indisputable right of the powers at war to take the goods of their\n                            enemies in neutral ships; & asks, if such were not the acknowledged law of nations,\n                            why particular nations have entered into stipulations to renounce, as it respects\n                            themselves, the exercise of that right? \"Is it presumable that any powers would form\n                            treaties to establish what was already established? or was it thought, when our treaty of\n                            1778 was formed, that in this respect it made no change, or in other words stipulated\n                        Mr Monroe then denies that the law of nations on this point has undergone any\n                            change; and asserts that the new rule is obligatory on those only who have bound themselves\n                            by special treaties to observe it, in respect to one another; and that the reciprocity urged\n                            by M. De la Croix, really was to be found in a change of circumstances, when the party now\n                            at war should be at peace, and enjoy, in turn (the other being at war) the privilege of its\n                            flag, in trading with the enemy of that other. Mr Monroe also remarks, that the French\n                            Republic knew, thus in the last as well as in the present war, Great Britain uniformly\n                            opposed the principle, that free ships make free goods; and that in the present war, all the\n                            enemies of France had done the same, including some who were now its friends. Hence if it\n                            were even admitted that a majority of the civilized nations had a right to bind the\n                            minority, in this case, how was it to be done when the powers composing that majority had\n                            changed sides, and were now marshalled against the principle?\n                        Mr Monroe in his letter to me, observes that he thought it expedient to attempt\n                            to divert the Directory from the Subject of its own complaints, \"which it had uniformly\n                            & vehemently pressed of late,\" by presenting to it a list of ours, which before he\n                            had studiously avoided. He then mentions, that in violation of the treaty of 1778, as to\n                            this very point in question, 50 American vessels had been brought into\n                            French ports, and their cargoes taken from the proprietors, who yet remained unpaid. That\n                            without any reason assigned upwards of eighty other vessels had been embargoed at Bordeaux,\n                            for more than a year, for which the owners yet remained unpaid. That for supplies rendered\n                            to the French Islands\u2014for innumerable spoliations made & still making\u2014and for\n                            supplies furnished to the republic at home, immense sums were due to the American citizens;\n                            by which deprivation many of them were ruined. That he had forborne hitherto to bring these\n                            things into view, because it would have the appearance of recrimination, which he wished to\n                            avoid; and because he was disposed to yield every possible accomodation, in the present\n                            exigences of the Republic, which his duty would permit; and further, because he relied that\n                            the republic would do all the justice in its power to those suffering individuals.\n                        Mr Monroe expresses his wish that he could say this affair was ended, and that\n                            we should never hear of it again: but \"so deep founded has their discontent appeared to be\n                            and so vehement their desire to give us some signal proof of it,\" that it was then\n                            impossible to say what would be the result of their councils. At one time, he says, it was\n                            whispered that they meant to claim all their property taken in our vessels by the British\u2014at\n                            another to suspend all payments to our citizens until satisfaction on their complaints was\n                            made\u2014and again, that they would suspend those articles of our treaty of 1778, which the\n                            Minister said the Directory thought it their duty to modify. \"But yet none of these things\n                            are done, nor have I (says Mr M.) any particular reason to presume they will be done, other\n                            than what appears from the general temper of the government;\" and as both the government and\n                            nation, independently of the points in discussion, is friendly to us, \"the probability is, that no such measure will be taken.\"\n                        I notice the last observation of Mr Monroe, on account of the alarm excited\n                            among the merchants, by the publication from the London papers, of what is called an\n                            Official Note from the Minister for foreign affairs to M. Barthelemy in Switzerland. I went\n                            to see Mr Adet to-day: he has received no information concerning it. No letters have yet\n                            come to hand from Mr King; nor have I any information from London about it. Yet I received\n                            from Dr Edwards (whom you know) a letter dated there the 21st of August, in which he speaks\n                            of the political affairs and projects of France which had been the subjects of conversation\n                            in Paris; which he left the 7th of August. He says also that he has letters from Mr Monroe,\n                            who told him they contained the correspondence between him & the French government\n                            on the subject of some discontents, which he did not forward, because Mr M. desired him to\n                            deliver them himself. But if they contained any account of such an order of the Directory as\n                            the Official Note describes, I think Mr M. would have furnished him with duplicates\n                            & triplicates to forward by the first vessels. I think also that Dr Edwards could\n                            not have failed to mention, if it existed, an order so much more interesting than any thing\n                            detailed in his letter. Yet we have this evening, in Brown\u2019s paper, an extract of a letter\n                            from Paris, dated August 2d (Dr E. was there till the 7th) in which the note to Barthelemy\n                            is mentioned as printed in a Paris Newspaper: but it recites particulars not noticed at all in the Official Note;\n                            and applies wholly to American vessels: Now it is not obvious to\n                            conceive for what purpose an order respecting only the commerce\n                            of the U. States should be transmitted\n                            to M. Barthelemy in Switzerland.\n                        I have thought that some information to quiet the minds, or to regulate the\n                            conduct, of the merchants, on this state of things, would be proper; and will prepare\n                            something accordingly, on which I will consult the other Secretaries.\n                        Governor Blount read me a letter to a friend of his, from Montflorence (Mr\n                            Skipwith\u2019s chancellor) in which he says that M. Mangourit was to\n                            succeed Mr Adet. M. Mangourit was Consul at Charleston during Mr Genet\u2019s administration. Governor Blount delivered to me a letter to him from\n                            Montflorence, who in case of a change in the consulate of the Paris department, begs the\n                            Governor to recommend him for the appointment; this letter I have the honour to inclose, for\n                            the sake of the other information it contains; altho\u2019 it is in the spirit of the anonymous\n                            letters from him to the Messrs Blounts, which you saw last spring.\n                        I also inclose letters from several gentlemen in Rhode Island, concurring in\n                            the recommendation of Benjamin Bourne Esqr. as the most suitable person in the state to\n                            succeed Mr Marchant in the office of District Judge; by Mr Olney\u2019s letter I conclude it is\n                            to be understood that the office would be acceptable to Mr Bourne. He is eligible by the\n                            Constitution; the increase of the Salary of the District Judge of Rhode-Island having been\n                            made in the preceding Congress: but Mr Bradford cannot be constitutionally appointed. I\n                            wrote to Governor Fenner on this occasion: but Mr Foster\u2019s letter,\n                            received this day, informs that the Governor was on a journey to Vermont.\n                            From that state no information has yet been received relative to the office of District\n                            Attorney. I have the honor to be, with the highest respect, Sir, your most obt servant\n                            Octr 12. Mr Wolcot just now informs me that Mr Ellery manifests his\n                                opinion that Mr Bourne is entitled to the preference of all the candidates for the", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01013", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James Anderson, 12 October 1796\nFrom: Anderson, James\nTo: Washington, George\n                        In case the Overseer who was uncertain; has not agreed to stay with You\u2014I can\n                            get one here, who is accustomed to the management of Negroes. And can come well recommended,\n                            As to which would wish to hear from You.\n                        In a few days I entend being at Marleborough when I will take a Measure of the\n                            parts of Mr Mercers Thrashing Machine In Order to make preparations in\n                            winter by cuting Timber for the Mounting of one for You, In case of Your approbation, I\n                            suppose the cost might be made very low. by employing Your own Carpenters with the assistance\n                            of one Mill Wright And with much respect I am Sir Your most Obedt Humble Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01014", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Francis Deakins, 12 October 1796\nFrom: Deakins, Francis\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I am Sorry I was from home when you called to See your Land\u2014Since my return I\n                            have wrote twice to Mr Jones\u2014who now lives 16 miles from us\u2014for A Statment of your Rents\n                            for 1792 93 & 94 the years he has to Account for\u2014he has just Sent me his Account\u2014but\n                            Such as wants a further explanation which I have requested of him, & will forward it\n                        It is expected youl. return through this County on your way to Philadelphia this\n                            Fall\u2014if so\u2014I hope it may be Convenient for you to call on us, that more full Satisfaction\n                            may be gave you respect\u2019g the Quality of the Land. Rents &\n                            Arrangments of the Tenants, which is now under the Superintendance of Mr Hezekiah Veatch\u2014Mr\n                            Jones not hav\u2019g recd any rent for last year I a few Months ago got Mr Veatch to undertake\n                            it\u2014he has called on the Tenants who promise to Settle with him Soon for 1795 I am with due\n                            Respect Sir your Obedt Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01016", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 13 October 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n                        To-day I was honoured with your letter of the 10th instant. A commission will\n                            be made out for Mr Bourne as district judge of Rhode Island. The letters concerning him\n                            which I transmitted to you yesterday will add to the satisfaction you have in conferring the\n                        The gentleman who was recommended for district attorney for Kentuckey, was\n                            William Clarke. His commission was forwarded to him about two weeks ago.\n                        Yesterday I received a letter from Mr King, which I do myself the honour to\n                            inclose. If ever Britain is very complaisant it may be expected in her present perilous\n                            situation. If the official note to Barthelemi is authentic, as Ld Grenville supposed, it was\n                            not intended probably for instant operation on the american commerce; at least to the extent\n                            at first apprehended. I have to-day received verbal information of one of our ships directly\n                            from London, and which left Gravesend about the 17th of August, that met two French frigates\n                            in the British channel, who examined and politely dismissed her. If, however, they should\n                            take British property on board our vessels, on the pretences urged to Mr Monroe by M. De la\n                            Croix, I should not be surprized.\n                        From the publication in the news-paper, of the information said to have been\n                            received by our consul Vanderhost at Bristol, I conclude that the Boston vessel taken by the\n                            Tunissians was soon released.\n                        To-day I received letters from Colo. Humphreys, dated Augt 5 & 10.\n                            Capt. OBrien sailed the fourth for Algiers, with 225,000 dollars. The arrival of the French\n                            at Leghorn had, as was expected, interrupted the pecuniary negociations there: however, Mr\n                            Bacri, brother to the one at Algiers, had undertaken to finish what the English House had\n                            begun: so Colo. Humphreys concludes that business will end well.\n                        Colo. Humphreys remarks, that he is much less apprehensive than some others of\n                            a rupture between Spain & England. The portuguese were completing their infantry to\n                            its establishment, and augmenting their cavalry: but the affair with Holland seemed to have\n                            nearly or quite passed over. He says that \"every thing does not appear to be perfectly on a\n                            good understanding between portugal & Spain\u201d: two ambassadors, one ordinary, the\n                            other extraordinary, were appointed by the former to the latter. The Marquis of Pombal had\n                            not then (Augt 10) sailed on his embassy to England. I have the honor to remain with the\n                            highest respect, sir, your most obt servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01017", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Bartholomew Dandridge, 14 October 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Dandridge, Bartholomew\n                        We have not precisely fixed the day on which to commence our Journey for\n                            Philadelphia, but I expect, if nothing unforeseen happens to prevent it, to be in that City\n                            on, or about the first day of next month.\n                        I request therefore that every thing necessary to be done in or about the house may be compleated before we\n                            arrive: Painting especially. It is my wish to leave the tenement in good repair.\n                        As soon as the time is resolved on for my setting out, and the Stages fixed, I\n                            will write you again for the purpose of regulating my letters in the Post Office.\n                        I caught a bad cold on my way home, from which I have not yet been thoroughly\n                            relieved. Mrs Washington has one, at present, worse than mine; Mrs Stuart has been very ill,\n                            but is some what better; Nelly & Washington are with her, at Hope Park\u2014In short the\n                            family have been more sickly than usual. I am Yours affectl.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01019", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 14 October 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I have just I believe got finished in time for the mail. I read the enclosed\n                            last night and here they are. Should I write three lines more you would not read the\n                            contents till next mail. Yours most respectfully &", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01020", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 14 October 1796\nFrom: Scott, Gustavus\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Mr Blagden waits on you for the purpose of examining your Stone Quarry. He is\n                            generaly here consider\u2019d as the best Judge of free Stone in the City and all the Contractors\n                            for the public Works have submitted to his Opinions on the quality of the Stone deliverd. He\n                            is himself now a Contractor & has lately past Sentence against his own Stone.\n                        I am confident any Opinion he gives, you may safely rely on & that his\n                            Judgmt on the subject is equal to any Mans in the U.S. Mr Blagden has no Idea of any\n                            pecuniary Reward, and possibly wou\u2019d rather be hurt by an Offer of that sort: if necessary\n                            he may be Spared a few days with out Inconvenience. Mr Morris is laboring hard to rid us of\n                            a part of our Bank debt, in which my Aid has & shall be readily given. Things are at present in a\n                            good Train & We have Reason to expect success; but what may be the event when12 Directors\n                            & a President are to determine I dare not say. I am with sentiments of perfect\n                            Respect & Esteem sir Yr mo. obt servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01021", "content": "Title: To George Washington from David Campbell, 15 October 1796\nFrom: Campbell, David\nTo: Washington, George\n                        The State of Tennessee is accepted as a member of the F\u0153deral Government. A\n                            District Judge will be appointed. I offer my talents & experience to the United\n                            States. I feel willing to act as District Judge if you will please to honor me with the\n                            appointment. perhaps you recognize me. I had the honor of acting in the Judiciary under an\n                            appointment from you. I believe it is understodd I discharged the Duties of that office with\n                            strict attention & fidelity. I have the honor to be with very great Respect Your Obt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01022", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Josiah Harmar, 15 October 1796\nFrom: Harmar, Josiah\nTo: Washington, George\n                        By the eighth Section of the militia act of the State of pennsylvania, it is\n                            the duty of the Adjutant General to lay before the president of the United States, a\n                            duplicate of the General return of the Militia of the State\u2014The said duplicate is now\n                            enclosed. I have the honor to be with the highest esteem & respect Your Excellency\u2019s\n                            Adjt General of the Militia of Pennsylvania", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01023", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 15 October 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Yesterday I received another letter from Mr King\u2014it is dated the 16th of\n                            August, covering a duplicate of the former, and saying that he had heard nothing from Mr\n                            Monroe respecting the letter from the Directory to Mr Barthelemy, so interesting to the\n                            commerce of neutral powers: and this silence was the only circumstance that left him a hope\n                            that the letter in question is not genuine.\n                        At the same time I received a letter from Messrs Gore & Pinkney. They\n                            had met the British Commissioners, Dr Nichol & Mr Anstey; and not agreeing on the\n                            choice either of a Briton or an American, they respectively made lists from which each\n                            selected one name. Our Commissioners took the name of Dr Swabey (an\n                            eminent Civilian) and the British Commissioners selected the name of John Trumbull Esqr. The\n                            two names being put into the urn, one was drawn, which was Colo. Trumbull\u2019s. He was then in\n                            London, and has accepted the appointment. On the 26th of August the whole were sworn before\n                        Thus far we have been fortunate in the choice of the odd Commissioners for\n                            adjusting our disputes with Britain; and therefore whatever may be the decisions of the\n                            respective boards, we may presume that our own citizens will be satisfied.\n                        Yesterday I received letters from our Consul at Cadiz (who is a very\n                            intelligent man) dated the 20th & 25th of August; in that of the 20th he says they\n                            are very apprehensive of a rupture with England. On the 4th of that month (Admiral Mann\n                            having retired on the 1st) the Spanish admirals Langara & Socorro, with 20 ships, 8\n                            frigates, 4 corvettes & 2 brigs, sailed as a convoy to Admiral Richery till they\n                            were near Cape St Vincents, when Richery (on the 5th at 5 P.M.) took leave, &\n                            steered towards Brest: his certain destination not known. On the 6th, 4 ships & 3\n                            frigates seperated from the Division under the command of Admiral Socorro, destined to\n                            different ports in America, with troops & artillery under the orders of rear admiral\n                            Apodaca, with orders to join Admiral Aristizabel, in the West Indies, after having landed\n                            their cargoes. All the rest of the fleet returned to Cadiz on the 12th\u2014No armaments were\n                            carrying on at Cadiz on the 20th, nor any other war-like preparations: but if necessary, Mr\n                            Yznardi thinks that in six weeks 36 ships of the line might be put to sea.\n                        On the 25th of August the scene was changed. On that day, in consequence of\n                            orders from Court, all the English vessels in that harbour were embargoed; the rudders\n                            taken out & conveyed to the inward part of the bay. The number in the port happened\n                            to be only five: the crews were left on board. Mr Y. supposes similar orders were executed\n                            in all the ports. This unexpected event he says greatly damped the spirits of the people:\n                            all was confusion: not a single negociation in that great commercial city. Government notes,\n                            which on the 20th were at 11 \u214cCt discount, rose to 18 \u214cCt loss. The motives to this new\n                            measure were unknown: but among the reports in circulation, the most probable was, that the\n                            English had not given satisfaction to the repeated remonstrances of the Spanish Court, on\n                            many infringements of the law of nations & existing treaties, highly prejudicial to\n                            the interests & derogatory to the dignity of the Spanish nation.\n                        A letter recd yesterday from our Consul at Marseilles advised of the arrival\n                            there of the American captives from Algiers, in number 89, one having died on the passage;\n                            and all the rest (the plague being considered as on board the ship) must perform the tedious\n                            quarantine of 60 days. This letter is dated the 22d & 24th of July; the captives\n                            arrived the 20th. He adds, that if one should die at the place, the reckoning of the\n                            quarantine must begin anew. By the same letter it appears that the Boston brig capt. Graves,\n                            which was carried into Tunis, had been released.\n                        I am informed that the French at Guadaloupe have condemned one vessel of this\n                            port, wholly American property; and their proceedings at Hispaniola, as detailed in the\n                            newspapers, indicate the like result. Yet the hesitation of General Rigaud to direct final proceedings respecting the American vessels carried into\n                            Aux Cayes, induce me to think the captures there were made by orders only of the Colonial\n                            administration. I have the honor to be with the highest respect sir your most obt servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01024", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 16 October 1796\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        A Meteorological Account of the weather kept at Mt VernonOctober\n                        16 In the Morning65W. Raining69SW Clear67NW Clear17th63NW Clear67NW Clear64N Clear18th55NW Clear67NW Clear60NW Clear19th55N Foggy59NE Cloudy59NE Cloudy20th54NE foggy58NE Cloudy58NE Clear21st58E foggy62SE Clear61SE clear22nd59SW Cloudy64SW Cloudy62SW Clear\n                        DaysDr. Mansion House for the work of 11 hands amt. pr Week to66Cr. By Waggon at Alexa With hay 2 days haulg Wood to the oystear Shell Landing 1 day\n  haulg Coopers stuff 2 days hauling hay\n  to Stock 1 day}6By Cart at town with turnips 1 day hauling Wood & oats to M. House 4 days At Mill 1 day}6By Single horse cart attending Brick layers 6 days6By Attending the Brick layers 9 days9By Mowing & tending hay 18 days18By Working on the Mill race 1 day1By Going with the waggon2By Peter in Care of Stables &c.6By Sickness Sam 6 dy Frank 6 dy12Total66\nRecd from Mill 24 3/4 Bus of Meal Stock 1 Stud horse 3 Covering Jacks 3 young\nJacks 9 Jinnies 2 young ditto 1 year old horse colt 9 work Mules 12 Mules 3 Brood Mares 1\nyoung Mare 1 Work Mare 2 horses 11 Cows 8 Calves.                       \n                        Dr. Ditchers for the Work of sillin Men amt. pr Week to24 DsCr. By Cuting wood 7 ds attend B. Layers 6 days13By Nowg 10 ds Stackg hay 1 day11\n                        Dr. Union Farm for the Work of 23 hands amt. pr week to132Cr. By Hauling Manure 12 days By haulg Wood to the oystear shell landing\n  6 days}18By treading Wheat 40 days40By threshing Wheat & oats 34 days34By Cuting CCord wood 15 days15By Cleaning a ditch 14 days By Mendg Water fence 17By tending hay 4 days 4By Sickness Neiler 4 ds Flora 6 ds 10Total132\n                        Sent to Mill 19 Bus of Corn Recd 15 1/2 Bus of Meal\nStock 1 horses 5 Mules 65 Cattle 11 Calves 127 Sheep Fed to stock 16 bars of Corn Ditto to\nthe Ferry of 2 1/2 Bus of Oats for W. P.\u2019s horses. Sent to M. House 52 Bus\nof Oats SEIded 6 Bus of Barley.\nDr. Dogue Run for the Work of 16 hands amt. pr week to96Cr. By hauling Manure 5 days in  haulg Wood to oystear shell landing 8 days}13By tending hay 18 days18By Cuting Cord wood 4 days By claning Wheat 4 Ds8By Claning out the Ditch 34 days34By S &c. working with M. House Land 6 ds6By Sickness Long Jack 4 ds Lucy 4 D. Sal 3 ds Hanah 2 ds Juda 4 ds}17Total96\n                        Sent to Mill 12 1/2 Bus of Corn Recd 12 1/4 Bus of Meal\nStock 5 Horses 9 Mules 56 Cattle 12 Calves 149 Sheep.\nDr. Muddy Hole for the Work of 14 hands amt.l pr Week to84Cr. By Cart at Mill 1 day haulg Manure 5 D.6By Cuting Wood 5 days By Cuting & Mauling Rails 7 ds12By treading Wheat 15 days15By heaping Manure 51 days51Total84Sent to Mill 8 1/2 Bus of Corn Recd 8 1/2 Bus of Meal Stock 7 horses 4 Mules 31\nCattle 4 Calves 57 Sheep Decrease 1 Mule Killed himself jumping over the fence & 1\nVeal to M. House.\nDr. River Farm for the Work of 21 hands amt. prWeek to162Cr. By hauling turnips to Town 2 days2By tending B. Wheat 2 ds By haulg Corn to Mill 1 Ds3By Cuting & Mauling rails 24 days By Working in the Brick yard 2 days}26By treading Wheat & diging Potatoes 119 days119By Attending to Stock 6 ds Peg in Child Bed 6 ds 12Total162\n                        Stock 11 horses 11 Mules 2 Colts 76 Cattle 10 Calves 215 Sheep\u2014Fed to Stock 2\nBus of Corn Sent to Alexa 14 Bus of turnips & 30 Bus of Potatoes\nDr. Mill for SundrysCornContra    Cr.S. Fine FlourMidlingsMeallb.To M. House 11 1/211 1/2Bus\nBy M. House1969324 3/4\" U. Farm19 1/2\"  U. Farm10 1/2\" River Farm18\"  River Farm13\" Dogue Run12 1/2\"  Dogue Run12 1/2\" Muddy Hole8 1/2\"  Muddy Hole8 1/2\"  W. Stuart1\"  John Neile1\"  John Ehlers251\"  John Vilett251\" Wm Pearce25Toll this Week2\"  Cooper & Miller & Bays1Corn Ground71Meal Delivered78 1/4\n                        Dr. Cooper & Miller for the Work of 2 Men amt. pr Week to12\n                            DsCr. By Dressing Stuff in the Shop 5 1/2 Ds5 1/2By packing & Heading up 2 Bar. of fish1/2By Working With M. House hands 6Total12\nDr. Carpenters & brick layrs for The work of Ten Men pr week amounts to Sixty days.Cr.By Giting of Boards and Shingles 7 Men 6 days42By Esaac Repairing of dogue Run farm CartBy Do finishing of the Tumbler wheels 11By do Making of One Level and Gitting of 3 Cart 11Tongues &c &c Six Days 6Carpenters Total48By Tom Davis Diging of durt for to Make Bricks and Making of a Shelter to Secure\n  them3By Moulding of bricks3By B. Muchlus Assisting to doe the above &c 6Mentiond work with Tom &c12The Carpenters & brick Layers Total60Given in by me                          John NoaB\nOctober the 22th 1796\ndaysDr.Spinners Sewers & Knitters for the Works of 15 Women Amounting pr Week90\n                            Cr.By Matilda spinning 6 pd of yarn6 daysBy Delia do         6 pd of do6By Anne do          6 pd of do6By Judit do         6 pd of do6By Delphie do       2 1/2 pd of do6By Lam Ally do      3 pd of do6By Kitty do         2 pd of Sowing thread6By Alsce Sowing 6 suit of Clothes6By Lucy Knitting 1 pear of Stocking6By Sall work in the Hous6By Charlotte do6By Caroline do6By Dolsey do6By Sieckness Doll 6 days Betty Davis 6 days12Total90 daysBy Sieckness Sam Peter 6 days\n October the 22th 1796daysDr.Gardens for the Work of 3 Men Amounting pr Week18 Cr.By Gatering Beans & Diegging for pleanting  Cabbage pleants9 daysBy Digging in the Viene yart for pleanting Apple trees 9desTotal18 days", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01025", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Landon Carter, 17 October 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Carter, Landon\n                        The letter with which you have favoured me, dated the 28th Ulto, came duly to\n                        A few months more, will put an end to my political existence, and place me in\n                            the shades of Mount Vernon under my Vine & Fig-tree; where, at all times, I should be\n                        It is true (as you have heard) that to be a cultivator of Land, has been my\n                            favourite amusement; but it is equally true, that I have made very little proficiency in\n                            acquiring knowledge either in the principles, or practice of Husbandry.\n                        My employments, through life, have been so diversified, my absences from home\n                            have been so frequent, and so long at a time, as to have prevented me from bestowing the\n                            attention, and from making the experiments which are necessary to establish facts in the\n                            Science of Agriculture. And now, though I may amuse myself in that way for the short time I\n                            may remain on this Theatre, it is too late in the day for me to\n                            commence a scientific course of Experiments.\n                        Your thoughts on the mode of cultivating Indian corn, appear to me, to be\n                            founded in reason; and a judicious management of the soil, for different purposes, is as\n                            highly interesting to, as it has hitherto been neglected by, the People of this Country; to\n                            the consequent destruction of much valuable land. How to restore it to its original\n                            fruitfulness; and to increase the means by Stercoraries &ca to preserve it in that,\n                            or an improving state; what rotation in crops is best adapted to soils, of different\n                            qualities, in order to keep our fields in health and vigour, & at the sametime to\n                            derive immediate profit from them, are the great desiderata of\n                            the Husbandman. It is what the People of the interior parts of our country must come to\n                            soon, or emigrate to the exterior parts of it for subsistence on more productive Soil.\n                        Nothing has contributed, nor will any thing contribute more, to effect these\n                            desirable purposes than the establishment of Agricultural Societies in this, as they have\n                            been in other countries; that the Community may derive advantages from the experiments and\n                            discoveries of the more intelligent; communicated through such channels.\n                        Besides the numerous local Societies which are to be found in all parts of\n                            Great Britain & Ireland, a National one is now established under the auspices of the\n                            government of those countries; which will, I conceive, be found among the most useful\n                            & beneficial institutions in them, if it is prosecuted with as much assiduity as it has\n                            commenced, under Presidency of Sir Jno. Sinclair. I shall always feel my self obliged by your\n                            communicating any useful discovery in Agriculture; and for the favourable sentiments you\n                            have been pleased to express for me, I pray you to accept the thanks of Sir; Your most Obedt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01026", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Edward Carrington, 17 October 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Carrington, Edward\n                        Your favor of the 10th instant has been received. Since the Refusal by General Wood of the Office of Surveyor Genl, it has been offered to General Rufus Putnam, whom it is presumed will accept it.I do not recollect that Colo. Heths name was ever presented to me for this Office\u2014If it had, and any assurance could have been given of his scientific qualifications, he would have been an eligible character in my estimation.As it has always been my aim to fill Offices with the most suitable characters I could obtain, the aid of my friends to accomplish this desirable object, has (where characters were unknown to me) always been required; and the opinion of no one has been more acceptable than yours. With very great esteem & regard I am\u2014Dear Sir Yr obedt & Affecte Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01029", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John Conrad Zollickoffer, 17 October 1796\nFrom: Zollickoffer, John Conrad\nTo: Washington, George\n                            May it please Your Excellence!Sir! \n                        If my Family Business would permit my absance from home, I should have concured\n                            to the wishes of my Cozen Mr Rd Valltravers; I should myself have do me the Honor to wait\n                            upon Your Excellence with this Inclosed letter & Sundry other Papers, which (as he\n                            maintion to me) are Copy\u2019s of his Correspondance with You Sir, Mr Lear Your former\n                            Secretary, Mr Jefferson presidt of the Philadelphia Aceademy of Arts & Siences, as\n                            also to Mr Adam vice presidt.\n                        He forward to me in Main time a New Work of his, Called the Universal House\n                            Cathechisme for the Instruction of Mankind of All Denomination &ce to be Delivered\n                            to your Excellence\u2019s Examination et Patronage.\n                        I know that my Cozen is a Strong Republican being a Helvetion, born in the\n                            Canton of Bern in Schwizerland, and his utmost Embition was at any time, to be Useful to a\n                            free, & Independent Nation, therefore wishes that his former, & repeated\n                            Offers of Servises, in our Republic the remainder of his Life, in any\n                            public Station, as Agent, as Consul in any part of the Globe would be accepted; he must\n                            certainly be well acquaint\u2019d of any of these Carracters having been during 14 years as\n                            public Resident & Counsollar of Ambasy for the Courts of Manheim, Munich, &\n                            Florence, & being a Member of Mostly all the Aecademy of Siences in Europe.\n                        I should look upon it as the most particular favour, if your Excellency would\n                            be pleased to Order to his Secretary, to acquaint me of the recept of the Inclos\u2019d papers,\n                            as also Your Opinion upon his new House Catechisme, & should Your Excellency not\n                            accept of him, or think it unworthy of Publication to return him to my Direction, that I may\n                            forward him to my Cozen again with Your Excellancy reflection thereof.\n                        Should I know when Your Excellancy passes traugh this Town, I should be happy\n                            to wait upon, & to learn from Your Excellency ownself, what Expectation my Cozen may\n                            have for his further Exertion. I have the honour to be. Your Excellency, Most faitful\n                            Subject, & Devoted humble Servt\n                            John Conrad Zollickoffer", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01031", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Thomas Peter, 19 October 1796\nFrom: Peter, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I expected to havehad the Pleasure of being at Mount Vernon long before this,\n                            but business calling me up the Potowmack, & Mrs Stuarts illness to Hope Park, has\n                        The day after you left the City I mentioned my opinion frequently, to a number\n                            of Persons the propriety of appointg a Comity to inquire who were materially injured by the\n                            fire, but none were appointed; A subscription paper was put about & no Subscriber\n                            exceeded more then five dollars excepting my subscription for\n                            you, which was ten dollars, & in a Little time the money raised was much more\n                            then the person lost\u2014Inclosed is the Balance of the One Hundred Dollars, which, you left\n                            with me, & if I have not acted as you could wish you will be plased\n                            to inform me & I will with the utmost pleasure make such\n                            alterations as you may direct\u2014make my best respects to Mrs Washington, Mr Fresten & La Fayette & I remain Dear Sir with much Exteem Your obt Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01033", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 19 October 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n                        The news-papers which will go by this post, will present you with a letter from\n                            Mr King to Mr Johnson, the consul of the United States at London, containing the agreeable\n                            information that such a decree of the Directory as the note from Delacroix to Barthelemy\n                            imported, had not passed, nor would be issued, unless Britain set the example. Mr King\u2019s\n                            letter as published is doubtless authentic: but I have no further advice from him on the\n                            subject than I have already had the honour to lay before you. With the highest respect I am", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01034", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gabriel Christie, 20 October 1796\nFrom: Christie, Gabriel\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I am inform\u2019d that you have some intention of disposing of part of your Negroes\n                            for a term of years I want to purchase about 10 or 12 boys from 13 to 15 years of age to put\n                            into a Nail Factory which I have lately established at this place should you be inclined to\n                            sell any of them I will if the price is sutable purchase that Number and will engage that\n                            they shall learn a trade wherby they may get a good living after there time of servitude\n                            expires you would greately oblige me by letting me hear from you on this subject and I\n                            will send my manager down to look at them and to fix the price. I am respectfully Dear sir", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01035", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Denis-Jean-Florimond Langlois de Montheville, marquis Du Bouchet, 20 October 1796\nFrom: Du Bouchet, Denis-Jean-Florimond Langlois de Montheville, marquis\nTo: Washington, George\n                            Mon G\u00e9n\u00e9ral20 8bre 1796 Merton Grove, Surry, Near\n                            C\u2019est au plus grand des hommes, c\u2019est \u00e0 la rare equit\u00e9 qui le distingue que\n                                j\u2019ose adresser le cri de la Douleur!\n                            Depuis 4 ans, j\u2019ai perd\u00fb ma Patrie et je crois l\u2019avoir perdu\u00ea \u00e2 jamais,\n                                puisqu\u2019il ne m\u2019y reste plus ni parents, ni amis, ni Asile j\u2019en cherche un au Sein de la\n                            j\u2019ai Sur les bras une epouse et des Enfants, Sans autre ressource que\n                                l\u2019espoir en v\u00f4tre G\u00e9n\u00e9reuses bont\u00e9s; j\u2019ai d\u00fb croire que pour l\u2019interesser il me Suffisoit\n                                d\u2019etre honnette homme et malheureux. \n                            je puis aussi vous rapeller; Mon G\u00e9n\u00e9ral, que je fus l\u2019un des premiers\n                                charg\u00e9s de Depeches de la part du Roi, Sous les ordres de feu Mr le Cte de Vergennes,\n                                ce fut \u00e2 vous m\u00eame que j\u2019eus l\u2019honneur de les remettre; j\u2019eus celui,\n                                \u00e0 mon retour d\u2019etre le premier capitaine nomm\u00e9 par Mr L\u2019Ambassadeur\n                                francklin; charg\u00e9 d\u2019ordres de Sa part, je fus fait prisonnier aux\n                                atterrages de Boston, Sur le vaisseau l\u2019Aimable\n                                therese et conduit \u00e0 Plymouth en Angleterre,, o\u00fb je fus envoy\u00e9 deux\n                                fois par Mr de Vergennes touchant les interets des Etats Unis ensuite\n                                j\u2019eus l\u2019honneur de recevoir la croix de Cincinnatus.. \n                            Sous vos Ordres, Mon General, Sous v\u00f4tre protection, je croirois encore au\n                                Bonheur\u2014laiss\u00e9s parler v\u00f4tre coeur et je vole embrasse vos genoux. \n                            je Suis avec Respect Mon G\u00e9n\u00e9ral\n                            V\u00f3tre tr\u00e9s humble et tr\u00e9s obeissant\n                            generalMorton grove, Surrey, near London october the 20th 1796it is to the greatest of men, it is to the uncommon equity, which\n                                distinguishes him, that I dare entrust my grief.\n                            since four years I lost my country and I believe I have lost it for ever,\n                                since I have no relations, no friends, no asylum left there. I wish to find one in a\n                                country where peace florishes and where laws are in vigour.\n                            I have a wife and children to take care of, without any other resource,\n                                than a hope in your generosity: I ought to believe that to excite it in my favour, it\n                                was sufficient to be an honest man, and unhappy.\n                            I can recall to your memory, general, that I was one of the first charged\n                                with dispaches from the King of france, under the orders of the late count of Vergennes,\n                                I had the honor of delivering them into your own hands; I was, at my return, the first\n                                captain appointed by Mr franklin, American ambassador: charged with orders from him; I\n                                was made prisoner near the Coasts of Boston on the ship L\u2019aimable ther\u00e8se, and carried\n                                to Plymouth in England, where I was twice sent by Mr le Vergennes for the interests of\n                                the United States. afterwards was honoured with the Cincinnatus\u2019s order.\n                            under your orders, general: under your protection, I would still hope for\n                                happiness, obey to the dictates of Your heart, and I will go immediately to implore your\n                                assistance. I am With respect general Your Most humble and obedient\n                                Knights of the Military orders", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01036", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 20 October 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Doctor Edwards delivered to me to-day letters from Mr Monroe and Mr King. The\n                            Doctor arrived in the ship which had but nineteen days passage. Mr King\u2019s letter of the 10th\n                            of September authenticates the one of the same date published in the news-papers, shewing,\n                            from Mr Monroe\u2019s letter to him of August 28, that on the appearance of the letter from the\n                            minister of foreign affairs to M. Barthelemy, he applied for information whether orders for\n                            seizing neutral vessels had been issued, and was answered, \"that no such order had been\n                            issued, and that none would be issued, in case the British did not seize our vessels.\"\n                        The letters from Mr Monroe are dated Augt 4. & 6th the latter referring\n                            to his accounts of some expenditure. In that of the 4th he mentions that within a few days\n                            Mr Mangourit, formerly consul at Charleston, and now secretary of embassy in Spain, had been\n                            appointed with the rank of Charg\u00e9 des Affaires, to succeed Mr Adet, in the U. States. On the\n                            morning of the 4th he visited the minister of foreign affairs, \"and remonstrated earnestly\n                            against the mission of Mr Mangourit to the U.S. as a person who having given offense to our\n                            government upon a former occasion, could not be well received by it on the present one.\" The\n                            minister replied in terms sufficiently respectful, but in a manner that showed, if any\n                            change were made, it would not be with his consent. He observed however, that if Mr Monroe\n                            would write him a short note on the subject, he would lay it before the Directory. Mr Monroe\n                            promised to write accordingly.\n                        In this same letter of the 4th of August, Mr Monroe mentions the minister\u2019s\n                            letter to Bartholemi as authentic; and that on his speaking to him upon it, the minister\u2019s\n                            answer corresponded much in sentiment with the note to Bartholemi. I suppose therefore that\n                            when Mr Monroe wrote to Mr King on the 28th of August, he had received further &\n                            more explicit information from the French government.\n                        He also mentions the report of a treaty of alliance\n                            offensive & defensive between France & Spain as in great forwardness,\n                            whereby the latter cedes to the former, Louisiana & perhaps the Floridas: but adds,\n                            that he had no authentic information of this; altho\u2019 the source from whence it came, was of\n                            a nature to merit attention.\n                        I have the honor to inclose two letters which were received this day; and to be\n                            with the highest respect, sir, your most obt servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01038", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Ralph Eddowes, 21 October 1796\nFrom: Eddowes, Ralph\nTo: Washington, George\n                            No. 67 North Third Street Philadelphia 21 Octo. 1796\n                        Tho\u2019 I know nothing more of the inclosed sealed packet directed to you than is\n                            communicated by the letter addressed to me, yet from my knowledge of Mr Rushton and my\n                            intimacy with Mr Rathbone, who is one of the most respectable characters in Liverpool, I am\n                            confident that I am committing no impropriety in transmitting them to you. Had you been in\n                            Philadelphia I would have done myself the honor of delivering them to you in person\n                            & am most respectfully sir yr obedt Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01039", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James Hill, 21 October 1796\nFrom: Hill, James\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Being informd by a Young man from that quarter that\n                                thee intended to rent thy mill for a terms of Years. I therefore\n                            take the liberty to inform the that it is my intentesion to rent A Mill in that state, if\n                            the has not rented thine and would let it on reasonable terms, if the Could make it\n                            convenient to inform me of the perticulrs I would call and see thee\u2014I having another in\n                            View wich obliges me to give an answer in a month From thiss date. but being rather inclind\n                            to think That thine will suit me better from the information of Chs Gwin who has seen it and\n                            is to be consernd If I take it, I therefore wish the to inform me Amediately for what time\n                            the proposes to lease it The Very probablely may wish some information Respecting my\n                                Carracter if so I must refer the To jery brown of little britain\n                            lancaster County who introdusd me to the as a miller in may last or\n                            levy Hollingworth of philadelphia. I Am Respectfully Yors\n                            N.B. If the rites Direct to me per tapsico or to Chs Gwin baltimore", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01040", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 21 October 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n                        Your letter of the 15th came duly to hand.\n                        Fortune seems to have declared for us, hitherto, in the Election, of more\n                            properly Selection & ballotting, for the odd Commissioner, under the Treaty with\n                            G.B.\u2014But something must be done, & I presume immediately, to supply Mr Trumbull\u2019s\n                            place as Agent in the other business, to which he was appointed.\n                        I wish most ardently that the flames of war were extinguished instead of\n                            kindling anew, as is too probable between Great Britain & Spain; in which it is not\n                            unlikely Portugal may be involved.\n                        The fates, some how or another, seems to have been adverse to our unfortunate\n                            captives by the Algerines, in all our attempts to relieve them, hitherto, and the\n                            probability is, it will continue to be so as the chances of renewed Quarantine by the death\n                            of one of them in 60 days is much against them. I am Your affectionate", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01041", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Robert Nesbitt, 22 October 1796\nFrom: Nesbitt, Robert\nTo: Washington, George\n                        When Britain oblidged America to take up Arms, I was in Ireland, having sailed\n                            from New York when the Tea was destroyed in Boston. My Father had been often in this\n                            Country. In his family, He prayed twice every day, & I cannot recollect that he ever\n                            finished his Devotions (after hearing of your being appointed Commander in Chief) that He\n                            did not pray for your Success.\n                        In 1779 I returned to America & Exerted myself in the Cause of Liberty.\n                            Taught to Reverence you, I wished by some means, to give you a proof of my Attachment, in\n                            1783, I went from New Windsor to Philadelphia, where I purchased a Hat & Cockade.\n                            Those I sent to you, on St Patrick\u2019s day, to Newburgh. Your letter, refusing the former but,\n                            kindly, accepting the latter, is now before me, & has been my constant companion,\n                            thro\u2019 many distressing Scenes.\n                        Four days ago I got a Newspaper containing your Address to\n                            the PEOPLE. A sentimental Patriotic friend told me that I would be affected when reading\n                            it. He spoke Truth. Neither my Tongue nor my Pen can express my Sensations. Excuse me,\n                            Beloved Sir, for addressing you, I cannot help it.\n                        May the God of Hosts, preserve & keep you, happy long Happy Here\n                            & that opposite to Your Name. Bliss in Eternum may be written opposite to your name\n                            in the Heavenly Mansions & in the MOST conspicuous characters, long has been & is now & will be  dum memor ipse mei the Ardent Prayer of, Your", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01042", "content": "Title: To George Washington from John William Bronaugh, 24 October 1796\nFrom: Bronaugh, John William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I find on conversing a second time with my Father, that I have not informed you\n                            right with respect to the conveyance he made of the 2000 acres of Land on the great\n                                Kanhawa he has conveyed the Land to Colo. Powell instead of Mr Muse\n                            this was done by Muse\u2019s instructions, I have enclosed you a copy of your letter to my Father\n                            in 1775. on the subject of the exchange you made with Mr Muse, and have also enclosed you a\n                            copy of the Deed from my Father to Colo. Powell with the certificate of the Clerk of the\n                            General Court of its having been recorded\u2014I have requested Colo. Powell to inform you that\n                            the Land conveyed in the enclosed Deed is the same Land for which you have my Fathers bond\n                            for conveyance\u2014After you satisfy yourself that the condition of my Father\u2019s bond has been\n                            complyed with, will be greatly obliged to you to enclose the bond to me, to be lodged in the\n                            post office at Dumfries\u2014I am Sir Yr mo. obt Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01043", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Matthew McAllister, 25 October 1796\nFrom: McAllister, Matthew\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I have to return you many thanks for the confidence reposed in me, when you\n                            were pleased to nominate me to the Office of Attorney for this district at the organization\n                            of our happy Government: permit me Sir, to assure you, that nothing could give me greater\n                            pain, than that it should in any degree be diminished with the President for whose character\n                            I have ever had, the highest respect.\n                        If a particular transaction out of the line of my official duty\u2014I mean, Sir,\n                            the purchase of a part of the Western territory within the limits of this State was taken\n                            into consideration in making the election of a successor, to the late Judge of this\n                            district\u2014the Gentleman lately appointed to that office, was originally concerned as well as\n                            myself. this circumstance I have reason to beleive, was not clearly understood, at the time\n                            the appointment took place.\n                        Genl Gunn, Mr Walker and myself signed a paper to him, purporting that he held a\n                            certain portion of that territory in the Georgia Company. which was paid for\u2014the paper\n                            transferred\u2014a valuable consideration received for it, and the certificate is now in the\n                            hands of the Gentleman who purchased it. Besides, Sir, I have had too good an opinion of Mr\n                            Clay to suppose he would deny, that he also held several shares in another Company, of which\n                            one of his Brothers in law was a grantee. another considerably interested and his partner in\n                            the law, Mr Woodruff a young Gentleman who lived with him the secretary of the Company, and\n                            who was also concerned in the purchase. I do not by any means feel sorry in vindication of\n                            the truth, to make these remarks however unpleasant they may be nor am I at all apprehensive\n                        I flatter myself, Sir, there can be no impropriety in mentioning these\n                            circumstances immediately to yourself\u2014for, from the very nature and texture of our\n                            Government, the avenue to a correct understanding of things ought in my opinion, to be as\n                            easy and open as possible, particularly to an officer however inferior, who is accountable\n                            for his conduct. besides, the relative situation of this state to the center of the public\n                            business of the union, as well as the unfortunately distracted condition of the public mind,\n                            renders it the more difficult to procure accurate information in regard to men and measures, so\n                            as to be able to detect, or correct misrepresentations, whether intentional or otherwise.\n                        Were I satisfied it had been distinctly understood that Mr Clay was a party to\n                            that contract, as I was, and I really beleive Judge Stephens was the only one of the four\n                            persons whose names were laid before you who was not concerned in it. then indeed to trouble\n                            the President with these observations, might justly be considered the result of\n                            indiscretion, or a mark of discontent at the regular exercise of the constitutional powers\n                            of the Executive on that occasion. Strong reasons however impel me and every other person I\n                            have heard speak of the circumstance to beleive there must have been some erroneous or\n                            uncandid representations.\n                        It would give me pleasure to learn this was not the case; and that the fact of\n                            Mr Clay\u2019s being originally engaged and of his declaring himself to be so, immediately after\n                            the sale, was candidly and honorably admitted. any subsequent disposition he may have made\n                            of his interest, may probably afford a subject of speculative consideration.\n                        I owe it, Sir, not only to myself and my friends, but I conceive myself bound\n                            to the President who may in some measure be considered responsible for the conduct of\n                            officers, appointed during his pleasure to endeaver to remove any improper or unequal\n                            impressions. and to give truth an oppertunity to assume her empire, in case her Altar has\n                        I have to beg, Sir, that it may not be inferred from any part of this letter,\n                            that I consider myself particularly injured\u2014the Gentlemen whose names mine accompanied, are\n                            too respectable for me to feel it peculiarly, besides the principle long since adopted in\n                            respect to appointments, is perfectly in unison with my own sentiments; and in reality was\n                            wisely engendered in the constitution of our Government, and is coeval with the principles of\n                            every free one. All I mean is that misrepresentations ought to be noticed and\n                            discountenanced, and where there is a probability of their existence\u2014it becomes the duty of\n                            every good citizen to unravel and detect them so far as he may have it in his power.\n                        In justice to my Sentiments, I now feel myself bound to declare, that, I was\n                            not prompted to a resignation of my commission as Attorney for this district (which was\n                            transmitted to the Secretary of State two posts ago) from any dislike of the Government of\n                            our common Country\u2014or to the general Administration of it\u2014nor from any disrespect to the\n                            President, for whom I beg leave to repeat I entertain the contrary in the highest degree.\n                            but from a conviction that I could not consistently continue any longer in the appointment.\n                            I have the honor to be, Sir, with all possible consideration\u2014Your most obedient Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01044", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 25 October 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pickering, Timothy\n                        The enclosed letter came under cover to me from the Sister of General Pinckney.\n                        Not knowing whether he had Sailed or not, she took this method of forwarding of\n                            it to him\u2014and I request you to do this by the first good conveyance. I am Yours affectly\n                            P.S. I shall commence my journey for Philadelphia this afternoon\u2014but\n                                business with detain me one day at least in the Federal City.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01045", "content": "Title: From George Washington to William Pearce, 26 October 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Pearce, William\n                        Cyrus was obliged to come on to this place, in order to take the horses back,\n                            which Mr Frestal & Mr La Fayette rode, which is the cause of his delay.\n                        Mrs Washington desires me to in form you that there was some Butter left in the\n                            Cellar, and some Beef in a Tub which (after supplying James) may be applied to any uses you\n                        Let my Study be cleaned out, & the Room afterwards locked up. Do not\n                            miss the opportunity of getting our Baggage, & James, round by the first Vessel to\n                            Philada\u2014taking a Bill of Lading for the several parcels, and sending it in a letter, that we\n                        When your family quit the house they are now in, and you remove to the Mansion,\n                            let Sinah & the other girl join the Mansion house people & Mrs Washington\n                            may, afterwards, chuse either for a Washer woman.\n                        Have the Earth removed from the stone quarry where I shewed you\u2014that Mr Blagden\n                            may be able to examine it when he calls there.\n                        Let all the Saddles and Bridles that I have left at home be cleaned &\n                            locked up\u2014or they will be hacked about, injured, & perhaps lost.\n                        The Mules for my Carriage\u2014the two Colts from the Chariot Mares\u2014& the\n                            one from the Augusta Mare must be well kept and attended to, till I come home. I shall write\n                            you more fully as soon as I get to Philadelphia in the mean while I remain your friend", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01046", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Landon Carter, 27 October 1796\nFrom: Carter, Landon\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Owing to my absence from home on the arrival of our weekly post, I did not\n                            receive your Favor of the 17th inst. until the 24th at night. I immediately prepared a\n                            Letter for continuance of the correspondence, you seemed to be willing to comply with\u2014Upon\n                            a review of that Letter tho, I resolved to suppress it on acct of the subject: That was of a\n                            nature to involve too much of conjecture. Your well known Character assures me that you wish\n                            only to tread upon established ground: Therefore the food of Plants is too unasscertained a\n                            subject, I imagine, to be acceptable.\n                        I will for the present content myself with laying before you some experience,\n                            that I have had, in the course of crops best adapted to the restoration of the Land: And I\n                            must request you to keep in view the postulata in my late Letter. I once wrote a Society in\n                            George Town in Culpepper County; which was printed in the Gazzette, by Timothy Green, in\n                            Fredericksburg, 9. October 1794. Extra: That too would perhaps aid my\n                            letter; but I must request you to suppose me to have been free from those\n                            blunders, the Coppyist, or Printer, have stamped upon it; for it is by a false stop changed\n                        The rational conclusion from my Postulata is, that cultivation under fit Crops\n                            & proper method, will restore land from a State of stirillity to\n                            a pristine fertillity. If Earth is considered to enter into the composition of vegitable\n                            food, that is seen to circulate in the Air; & a free divided state of the Soil,\n                            under proper guards against heat, must be the most apt state for\n                            attracting matter so arranged: And the same may be remarked of each\n                            matter that has ever been advocated as the Chief agent in that business.\n                        The mode of Plowing I have pointed out; and you will see my choice of Crops, in\n                            the publication alluded to, fully argued as to fitness. I have chiefly now to express my\n                        A naked Fallow I deem to be destructive of the Land; and even when manured it\n                            is but a cross operation. I would practice Fallow in preferrence to Indian Corn preparation;\n                            for small grain: But I would solicit shade, in aid to oblique plowing, to make my Fallow\n                            conducive to fertillity. Indian Pease is the growth I have adopted, not merely for its shade\n                            but as a moderate claimant from the Earth, by means of its direct down root; and because it\n                            occasions a profuse tendency to it; of such aerial matters as lead to fructify the Earth:\n                            For that plant strongly attracts from the Air. To make this draft the more copious, it will\n                            perhaps occur to you that there must be a croud of them together, for collectiveness is not,\n                            in this case, as two to three but as two to four. On account of those ideas I never sow them\n                            broad; I should thereby single the pease, and loose the benefit of Plowing thro\u2019 the season:\n                            Leaving the soil to grow compact, and in a Level position; which reduces the surface, that\n                            presents to the Air, to the least possible extent. I plant the pease 12, 15, or even 20, in\n                            a place\u2014say in furrows three feet apart & 18, to 30 inches in the step; tho I have\n                            it in contemplation to put in future 10, to 12, & only one foot in the step; and\n                            when I plow them, the mouldbd always directs the cast to a ridge in the middle; So as that\n                            the pease will ultimately stand on a little ridge: And I plow so close as even to start\n                        Let not this alarm the Farmer; for the plant sustains so\n                            much from the air, that it never flags for so rude a push, but gathers\n                            vigor from the near approach of the air to its ruits: Nor can they suffer\n                            injury from a crouded state, for the Same reason; but rather acquire\n                            accumulated supplies by the association. My Letter grows long, and the\n                            continuation of the subject must be deferred.\n                        I am equally with you convinced of the utillity of Societies toward the\n                            promotion of any Science; and should exult to find an Establishment of\n                            that kind, under congenial Auspices, in some way practicable. A\n                                Recluse myself, and under a consequent want of Influence,\n                                any attempt by me to set such a thing on foot would of\n                                course be fruitless; therefore has not been at all aimed at on my\n                                part. But I willingly would follow; tho I cannot lead. I am Dear Sir with\n                            every Sentiment of Esteem and respect for you and for your relative\n                            regards Your most Obt & very hmble Servant\n                            P.S. As possibly you may not come at once to the Gazzette\n                                and it may be necessary for the better understanding my\n                                Last post I have inclose you one from my File\u2014to be", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01047", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Samuel Phillips, 28 October 1796\nFrom: Phillips, Samuel\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I have been honored with your favor of the 28th Ultimo, enclosing a letter from\n                            Colo. Washington in whch were recd\u2014150 dollrs and take the liberty to\n                        You are pleased to authorize me to give you notice of any arrears on acct of\n                            the sons of your Nephew. it gives me pleasure to say there are none of any consequence now\n                            due to me. With the highest respect I am Sir yr most obed\u2019t & very h\u2019ble Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01049", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Godfrey Bumgardner, 30 October 1796\nFrom: Bumgardner, Godfrey\nTo: Washington, George\n                            Most Excellent President \n                            Harrison County October the 30th 1796\n                        I hope you will not take Amiss that One of your Subjects takes the Liberty to\n                            send you a few Lines Hoping they may find you in health of Body & mind.\n                        I am One of your old Soldiers. I Served in your Company in the Year 1754.\n                            & a Grant of Land was Given By A proclamation of Robert Dinwide Governor of\n                            Virginia But I am like to loose my Right for the Want of my Name Being found on the List The\n                            Reason I expect is that I Got my Discharge Burnt But I have proved by my Neighbours Before\n                            Captain Andrew Lewis that I had it & leave the provement to Mr Felix Gilbert,\n                            who Told me he had Given it to your Brother in Fredericksburgh. Moreover I have never Receiv\u2019d\n                            Any pay at all for my Service. I humbly pray Dear Sir that you would Look into it & that I may\n                            Get my pay & my Right to sd Grant.. for probably you may Remember me & if not\n                            you may perhaps find my Name in some of the Lists or Records. please to Honour me with an\n                            Answer By Colonel Jackson who may Give you some Information of my person & Your Compliance\n                            Dear Sir Will Abundantly Oblige your faithful Subject & most Humble Servant\n                            A Copy of The List taken from The Records at RichmondThere is Granted\n                                unto the Following Men in the Year 1794 19th of February by A proclamation of Robert\n                                Dinwide\u2014Governor of Virginia & Survey\u2019d by George Washington & Wm\n                                Crafort on the Ohio river Above big Sandy &c.John Savage, Robert Langdon,\n                                Edmund Waggonner, Richard Trotter, Wire Johnson Hugh McCoy, Richard Smith, John Smith\n                                Charles Smith Agnus McDonnald\u2014Nathan Chapman, Joseph Gatewood, James Samuel, Michael\n                                Scully, Edward Goodwin William Bailey, Henry Bailey, Wm Coffland Mathew Dorran,", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01050", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Budd & Pryor, 31 October 1796\nFrom: Budd & Pryor\nTo: Washington, George\n                        It is with much reluctance we address ourselves to you on the present occasion,\n                            but as we think our interest as well as that of the City of Washington materially concerned,\n                            we have thought it necessary to make you acquainted with the subject on which this\n                            application is founded, in order to see how far the Comms. of the City have acted with\n                        We, together with Mr Robt S. Bickley & Mr Danl William jr are the\n                            proprietors of the Ticket which drew the Hotel\u2014Immediately after the\n                            Lottery had finished drawing, we found that the Buildings were not\n                            Progressing, in consequence of which we wrote to the Comms., requesting them to acquint us\n                            with the situation of the Building & to furnish us with Copies of the engagements\n                            entered into between Mr Blodget & them, they accordingly sent us\n                            forward a Copy of a Mortgage given by Mr Blodget to Mr Johnston & Mr Peter, to\n                            indemnify the Comms. against all damages Costs &c. which they might sustain on Accot\n                            of said Lotty and wrote us at the same time that they would do all in their Power to have\n                            the Buildings compleated\u2014Finding in a short time after, that the Buildings were wholly\n                            neglected, our Geo. Budd, waited on the Comms. at the City of Washington & made a\n                            regular complaint to them against Mr Blodget\u2019s conduct (who we conceived their agent) for\n                            not furnishing funds to proceed with the Buildings, in consequence of this application, the\n                            Comms. wrote to Mr Blodget, & told him, they had no alternative left, unless he did\n                            in a given time furnish funds, they would be obliged to institute a suit to forclose the\n                            Mortgage, and sell as much of the Property Mortgaged as would enable them to finish the\n                            Hotel & out Buildings\u2014Mr Blodget then came forward & we understood from the\n                            Comms. had lodged with them a certain Sum to proceed with the Work\u2014those funds we have been\n                            informed since are exhausted, and the work at a stand\u2014The Comms. now Sir decline that\n                                interference in the exercise of their power over Mr Blodgets\n                            property which we think they ought in justice to proceed against in order to compleat the\n                            work, they now tell us that the former Commissioners had no right to bind them, and that\n                            they consider this business as having no connection with the City, or with them as Public\n                            Officers & that they are not authorized to interfere in the business\u2014Those Gentlemen\n                            have already interfered & told Mr Blodget that they were compell\u2019d to proceed\n                            against his property, and now they disclaim any interference\u2014All we ask Sir is justice, we\n                            thought at one time the Comms. disposed to see it done, we have no controul over Mr Blodget,\n                            but they certainly have & we think the Buildings ought to be compleated by\n                            Somebody\u2014We beg the favor of you Sir to investigate the truth of our assertions and if it is\n                            necessary we will lay before you Copies of all our letters as well as theirs on the Subject.\n                            We are with every Sentiment of esteem & respect Sir Your Mo. Obedt Servts", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01051", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 31 October 1796\nFrom: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        We were favored, by last Mail, with the two inclosed Letters, which are\n                            forwarded by the earliest conveyance since their arrival; not having been received until the\n                            Saturday\u2019s Mail had been closed\u2014The prospects held out by Messrs Willink are by no means\n                            flattering\u2014We inclose an answer to their letter which we presume will readily meet with a\n                            conveyance to Amsterdam or Hamburgh; a copy of which Letter is inclosed\u2014Messrs Morris\n                            & Nicholson have releived us of 50,000 Dollars of our Bank debt, and we have some\n                            reason to expect that they will relieve us of $20,000 more in which case, we shall only owe\n                            $12,000, & 10,000$ of that sum yet remains in Bank, undrawn, & is destined\n                            to meet the expenditures of the next month. We shall probably be able to raise a further Sum\n                            of 5000 Dollars from other Sources, which will carry us to the middle of December, when the\n                            building Season will close\u2014The months of Decr & January are those during which we\n                            have with most advantage generally contracted for one Year\u2019s supplies of Beef, Pork, Meal,\n                            Lime & sundry other articles; on all of which contracts, it is essentially necessary\n                            to make considerable advances, & without them, no beneficial contracts can be\n                            made\u2014The Bank of Columbia, whilst so much of their capital is absorbed by Morris &\n                            Nicholson, in their city affairs, and upon which principle alone they obtain such large\n                            discounts, can give us no effectual aid; money, however, is as necessary to our operations\n                            in the Winter as summer, and without some supplies by the middle of Decr, our Summer\n                            operations will be considerably crippled. We think it therefore,\n                            adviseable immediately to lay before you such plans as appear to us most likely to\n                            succeed\u2014The reasons given by Messrs Willink why they can at present do nothing at Amsterdam,\n                            apply with equal strength to the rest of Europe\u2014We therefore consider that Country as for\n                            the present out of the question, and that we must gain our immediate supplies within the\n                            United States, or not at all\u2014A Sale of Lots or partial loan appear to be the only means of\n                            obtaining the object\u2014We wish Mr Wolcott, with whom we heretofore had a correspondence on the\n                            Subject, to renew his application to the Bank of the U. States\u2014Could we obtain from them\n                            100,000 Dollars, to be advanced by Instalments of 7000 Dollars \u214c Month, during the Winter\n                            Months, or, until April; and afterwards at the rate of 11000 Dollars per month until the\n                            whole shall be drawn; it would be sufficient, with our other resources, to carry us through\n                            the ensuing Year\u2014We would readily agree to pay an Interest of 6 \u214c cent \u214c annum on the\n                            whole Sum borrowed, from the day of the first advance and to draw the money by monthly\n                            Instalments, as above proposed\u2014This would, we presume, be convenient to the Bank, and would\n                            really yeild them an Interest of at least 8 1/2 \u214c cent; and we would agree, further, to\n                            repay the money loaned, as soon as the foreign Loan is effected\u2014If, however, these terms\n                            cannot be obtained, we know not how we can do better than negotiating with the Bank of the\n                            United States for $100,000 of the new created Stock, which will sell at a loss of 10 or 12\n                            \u214c ct, one we are very unwilling to sustain; but this will be less injurious than the loss\n                            of a Summer\u2019s operations, & Congress cannot complain of a loss which arises from a\n                            Sale regulated by their own acts, & which prohibits the Bank from selling at any\n                            price less than par\u2014The sooner the result of Mr Wolcots application is known, the better, as\n                            we mean, if not successful with the Bank of the United States, to apply to the Legislature\n                            of Maryland; who will soon be in session & who will probably lend us Stock on the\n                            same terms now proposed to the Bank\u2014We beg leave, also, to submit to your consideration the\n                            propriety of offering for Sale at Phila, New York and Boston, through the medium of some\n                            respectable Broker at each place, a number of Squares, sufficient to raise 60 or 70,000\n                            Dollars, limiting the Sale to certain prices, under which, they shall not be bid off\u2014If\n                            successfull, these Sales will greatly facilitate our finances, and, if not, no expense or\n                            inconvenience can arise\u2014We have the honor to be, &c.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01052", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 31 October 1796\nFrom: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Since our first Letter of this date, we have thought it prudent to write to Mr\n                            Wolcott & to enclose to him the proposals for a Loan from the Bank drawn out into\n                            detail, both which are left open for your perusal & approbation, without which we do\n                            not consider ourselves at liberty to make the propositions. Not knowing what may be the\n                            event of the application to the Bank, we have thought it adviseable to forward an Instrument\n                            empowering us to borrow of the State of Maryland, in case of need. We are, with sentiments,", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01054", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 2 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n                        On Monday Afternoon I arrived in this City, and among the first things which\n                            presented themselves to my view, was Mr Adets letter to the Secretary of State, published by\n                            his order, in the moment it was presented.\n                        The object in doing this is not difficult of solution; but whether the publication in the manner it appears, is by order of the\n                            Directory, or an act of his own, is yet to be learnt. If the first, he has executed a duty\n                            only; if the latter, he has exceeded it, and is himself responsible for the indignity\n                            offered to this Government by such publication, without allowing it time to reply\u2014or to\n                            take its own mode of announcing the intentions of his country towards the Commerce of these\n                        In either case, should there be in your opinion, any difference in my reception\n                            & treatment of that Minister, in his visits at the public Rooms (I have not seen him\n                            yet, & do not expect to do it before tuesday next)\u2014and what difference should be made if\n                        He complains in his letter, that he had received no answers to the\n                            remonstrances in former communications (the dates of which are given). The fact is, that one\n                            at least of those remonstrances, were accompanied by as indecent charges; and as offensive\n                            expressions as the letters of Genet were ever marked with; and besides, the same things on\n                            former occasions, had been replied to (as the Secretary of State informs me) over &\n                        That the letter which he has now given to the public will be answered, and (to\n                            a candid mind) I hope satisfactorily, is certain; but ought it to be published immediately, or not? This question has\n                            two sides to it; both of which are important. If the answer does not accompany the letter,\n                            the antidote will not keep pace with the poison\u2014and it may, & undoubtedly would be\n                            said, it is because the charges are just, and the consequences had been predicted. On the\n                            other hand\u2014may not the dignity of the Government be committed by a News paper dispute with\n                            the Minister of a foreign Nation, and an apparent appeal to the People? and would it not be said also that we can bear every thing from one of the Belligerent Powers, but nothing from another of them? I could enlarge on this subject,\n                            but add nothing, I am certain, that your own reflections thereon will not furnish. Whether\n                            the answer is published now, or not, would it be proper do you conceive, at the ensuing\n                            Session, which will close the political Scene with me, to bring the French affairs, since\n                            the controversy with Genet fully before Congress? In doing this it is to be noticed, that there is such a connexion between them and our\n                            transactions with Great Britain as to render either imperfect without the other; and so much\n                            of the latter as relates to the Treaty with that country has already been refused to that\n                            body: not because there was any thing contained therein that all the world might not have\n                            seen but because it was claimed as a matter of right, and the compliance therewith would\n                            have established a dangerous precedent.\n                        Since I wrote to you from Mount Vernon, on the eve of my departure from that\n                            place, and on my way hither, I received a letter from Sir John Sinclair\u2014an extract of which\n                            I enclose you\u2014on the Subject of an Agricultural establishment. Though not such an enthusiast\n                            as he is, I am nevertheless deeply impressed with the benefits which would result from such\n                            an institution, and if you see no impropriety in the measure, I would leave it as a\n                            recommendatory one in the Speech at the opening of the Session; Which, probably, will be the\n                            last I shall ever address to that, or any other public body.\n                        It must be obvious to every man who considers the Agriculture of this country,\n                            (even in the best improved parts of it) and compares the produce of our lands with those of\n                            other countries; no ways superior to them in natural fertility,\n                            how miserably defective we are in the management of them; and that if we do not fall on a\n                            better mode of treating them, how ruinous it will prove to the landed interest. Ages will\n                            not produce a systematic change without public attention & encouragement; but a few\n                            years more of increased Sterility will drive the Inhabitants of the Atlantic States\n                            Westwardly for support; Whereas if they were taught how to improve the old, instead of going\n                            in pursuit of new & productive Soils, they would make those acres which now scarcely\n                            yield them any thing, turn out beneficial to themselves\u2014To the Mechanics, by supplying them\n                            with the staff of life on much cheaper terms\u2014to the Merchants, by encreasing their Commerce\n                            & exportation\u2014and to the Community generally, by the influx of Wealth resulting\n                            therefrom. In a word, it is in my estimation, a great National object, and if stated as\n                            fully as the occasion & circumstances will admit, I think it must appear so. But\n                            whatever may be the reception, or fate of the recommendation, I shall have discharged my\n                            duty in submitting it to the consideration of the Legislature.\n                        As I have a very high opinion of Mr Jay\u2019s judgment; candour, honor and\n                            discretion (tho\u2019 I am not in the habit of writing so freely to him as to you) it would be\n                            very pleasing to me if you would shew him this letter (although it is a hurried one, my time\n                            having been much occupied since my arrival by the heads of the Departments, & with\n                            the Papers which have been laid before me) and let me have, for consideration, your joint\n                            opinions on the several matters herein Stated.\n                        You will recollect that the conduct to be observed towards Mr Adet must be\n                            decided on before tuesday next; that is, if he comes to the public Room, whether he is to be\n                            received with the same cordiality as usual, or with coolness; and you will do me the justice\n                            to believe that in this instance, and every other, I\n                            wish it to be such as will promote the true policy and\n                            interest of the country, at the sametime that a proper respect for its\n                            dignity is preserved. My own feelings I put out of the question.\n                        There is in the conduct of the French government relative to\n                            this business, an inconsistency, a duplicity, a delay, or a\n                                something else, which is unaccountable upon\n                            honorable ground. It appears that the order under\n                            which Mr Adet has acted is dated in July (early) and yet Mr\n                            Monroe has been led to believe (though much dissatisfaction he says has\n                            appeared) that no such order had, or would be issued unless Great Britain\n                            set the example; and in a letter of August the 28th he writes Mr King to\n                            that effect as the latter officially informs the Secretary of State: But\n                            I am fatiegued with this and other matters which crowd upon me, and shall only add that I am\n                            P.S. I find I have not time before the hour for closing the Mail arrives,\n                                to take the promised extract from Sir John Sinclairs letter, I therefore send the\n                                original, with a request that it may soon be returned as I have given it no\n                                acknowledgment yet. Tthe articles which he requests my acceptance of are not yet come to", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01055", "content": "Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 2 November 1796\nFrom: McHenry, James\nTo: Washington, George\n                        In compliance with the Presidents command the Secretary of War lays before the\n                            President the points that have been submitted for consideration, in the Secretarys letters,\n                            bearing date the 8th & 10th of Octtober ulto.\n                        Will the President think proper, that detachments be made from West Point to\n                            complete the garrisons at Governors Island, Mud Island, Baltimore, Norfolk and Charlestown,\n                        Will it be proper to employ one or two qualified persons, to teach the officers\n                            of the corps of artillerists & Engineers, mathematics, the elements of geometry, the\n                            fundamental principles of statical mechanics & designing?\n                        Will it be expedient to have the main body of the corps of Artillerists\n                            & Engineers, and each detachment, inspected from time to time, by a well informed\n                            officer, who should be specially charged to give information of the state of the works and\n                            buildings where posted, and the discipline of the men and improvement of the officers.\n                        Will it be proper that the Secretary of war should digest, at his convenience,\n                            and report to the President, a system of rules & regulations for perfectioning the\n                            discipline & instruction of the corps?\n                        Will the President give the Secretary any orders relative to the sentence of\n                            the Court Martial on a soldier for desertion, noticed in his letter of the 10th ulto.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01056", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 3 November 1796\nFrom: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Upon an accurate research into the several laws past by the Legislature of\n                            Maryland respecting that part of the City formerly known by the names of Carrollsburgh and\n                            Hamburgh, it is thought, that the order lately made by you for a reconveyance, may not be\n                            extensive enough to include those Lots\u2014We therefore take the liberty of requesting your\n                            signature to the enclosed, which will include all the Lands vested in the Trustees. We have", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01057", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 3 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n                        After my letter of yesterday was despatched to you, the draught of the answer\n                            to Mr Adet was presented for my approbation, with the opinions of the Gentlemen about me,\n                            that it would be expedient to publish it, and without delay.\n                        It appeared also, by information from the Secretary of State, that as far as\n                            public opinion had been expressed on the occasion that this measure was looked to, &\n                            expected. These considerations, and a conviction if the publication was to take place\n                                otherwise than through the medium of Congress, the\n                            sooner it happened the more likely it would be to obviate the bad impressions it was\n                            calculated to make on the public mind; induced an acquiescence on my\n                            part. I do not, nevertheless, think it free from those\n                                objections which I mentioned in my last; as it is not probable that\n                            the correspondence will end with the Secretarys letter.\n                        I give you the trouble of this note & account for the\n                            Publication which you will find in the Gazettes of this Morning; and to rescue my conduct\n                            from the imputation of inconsistency.\n                        There are other parts of my letter not involved in this determination, which\n                            await the opinions I have asked, and on which I should be glad to hear from you (and in the\n                            manner which has been required in preceeding letters) as soon as it is\n                            convenient. I am\u2014Your Affectionate friend", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01058", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Robert Rutherford, 3 November 1796\nFrom: Rutherford, Robert\nTo: Washington, George\n                            Berkeley County Virginia November 3d 1796\n                        Inclosed, please receive some addresses dictated by genuine respect, from the\n                            people of Frederick and Berkeley County\u2019s, Many more are filling up, and will be sent forward\n                            with all Convenient Speed. Various were the Opinions,. about the mode of address. the greater\n                            part of the people, were desirous, to evince their sincerity, by subscribing. other modes\n                            have and may be adopted, but all unite, in the most unfeigned Esteem. May you with good\n                            Lady, enjoy each temporal blessing. I have the honr to subscribe with every sentiment of\n                            respect and regard Sir Your Most Humble Servant\n                            We, the subscribers, inhabitants of Frederick County, in the State of\n                                Virginia, having seen, with concern, your paternal address of the 17th instant, to the\n                                people of the United States, beg leave to return you our unfeigned thanks for this\n                                generous attention\u2014& to express the warmest respect for your public and private\n                                character. We are persuaded, Sir, that the approbation of your Fellow-Citizens is, to a\n                                mind like yours, the highest possible reward\u2014whilst it remains with us, the only means by\n                                which we are enabled to testify our respect for your faithful, arduous, and very\n                                important services, more than forty-five years; and though we sincerely regret the\n                                resolution you have taken, to terminate labours so long sustained, in a variety of\n                                Characters\u2014yet, be persuaded, Sir, that you carry with you into the shades of retirement,\n                                the esteem and the affections of every good man and real lover of this our common\n                            The various and greatly important matters you so wisely and feelingly\n                                recommend to the consideration of your Fellow-Citizens, please to be assured, has made\n                                deep impressions on our minds. The inhabitants of this county, while it was much more\n                                extensive than at present, have, in a very particular manner, been witnesses of the\n                                reverence with which you regarded the civil authority, when you supported a high\n                                military character under the regal Government, and at a time of Life, when ideas not so\n                                enlarged and truly benevolent are often predominant with those in office. Posterity, we\n                                are sensible, will regard with the most lively and grateful sensibility, sentiments\n                                dictated by purest patriotism, and anxious solicitude for the happiness and prosperity\n                            In that retirement to which you are determined to return, may you enjoy every\n                                temporal blessing, and may the eve of your life be crowned with that felicity which is\n                                the reward of the just and virtuous, whilst we shall ever continue to be, with great\n                                regard, Sir, your affectionate humble servants,", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01060", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 4 November 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I have lately been honored with two letters from you, one from Mount Vernon the\n                            other from Philadelphia, which came to hand yesterday. I immediately sent the last to Mr Jay\n                            & conferred with him last night. We settled our opinion on one point\u2014(viz.) That\n                            whether Mr Adet acted with or without instruction from his Government in publishing his\n                            communication, he committed a disrespect towards our government which ought not to pass unnoticed, and would most properly be noticed to him as the Representative or Agent\u2014That the manner of noticing it, in\n                            the first instance at least, ought to be negative, that is, by\n                            the personal conduct of the President towards the Minister\u2014That\n                            the true rule on this point would be to receive the Minister at your levies with a dignified reserve, holding an exact\n                            medium between an offensive coldness and cordiality\u2014The point is a nice one to\n                            be hit, but no one will know better how to do it than the President.\n                        Self respect, & the necessity of discouraging further insult, requires\n                            that sensibility should be manifested; on the other hand, the importance of not widening a\n                            breach, which may end in rupture demands great measure and caution in the mode.\n                        Mr Jay & myself are both agreed also, that no immediate publication of\n                            the reply which may be given ought to be made\u2014for this would be like joining in an appeal to the Public\u2014would countenance & imitate the\n                            irregularity & would not be dignified\u2014nor is it necessary for any present purpose of\n                            the Government\u2014Mr Jay inclined to think that the reply ought to\n                            go through Mr Pinckney to the Directory with only a short note to Adet acknowleging the\n                            reception of his paper & informing him that this mode will be taken\u2014I am not yet satisfied\n                            that this course will be the best\u2014we are both to consider further and confer. You will\n                            shortly be informed of the result.\n                        But whatever be the mode adopted it is certain that the reply will be one of\n                            the most delicate papers that has proceeded from our Government\u2014in which it will require\n                            much care and nicety to steer between sufficient and too much justification, between self\n                            respect & the provocation of further insult or injury\u2014and that will at the same\n                            time save a great political interest which this step of the French Government opens to us.\n                            Did I not know how guarded you will yourself be, I should be afraid of Mr Pickerings warmth. We must if possible avoid rupture with France\u2014who if not\n                            effectually checked will in the insolence of power become no less troublesome to us than to\n                        I dedicate Sunday to the execution of your commands\n                            in preparing certain heads. You will speedily hear again from me Most Affecty &\n                            respecty I have the honor to be Sir Yr very Obed. serv.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01061", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Jane Swanson, 4 November 1796\nFrom: Swanson, Jane\nTo: Washington, George\n                            May it please your Excellency \n                        To forgive the Liberty a Young Woman has taken, as the Goodness of your heart is\n                            confessed by every one in this Country as well as in America, and has been ever ready to\n                            relieve the distressed, I therefore hope this may claim some Merit to your Excellencys\n                        My Father whose Name was John Swanson, and if by the\n                            Information I have lately received from a Friend of his, and also by\n                            several others who were in the Country with him, and that he was a Colonel in your Service\n                            at the Time the English General Lord Cornwallis and his Army was Captured, Is. Right, and I\n                            am crediably informed it is. I am a Truely unfortunate Daughter of his, in not hearing from\n                        I have made every enquiry in my power for Information for many Years past, but\n                            all to no purpose I have therefore been advised to address this to your Excellency to\n                            Sollicit your Good offices to make the necessary Enquiries\u2014for every other of my relations\n                            are dead\u2014and since I have came to the Years of Maturity, I shall feel most sensibly the Loss\n                            of so Tender a Father (if he is also dead).\n                        He came from Thurso in the County of Caithness and North of Scotland. He was a\n                        An answer to this Letter will be received with the utmost Gratitude and\n                            Attention By Your Excellencys Very obt Servant\n                            To be directed for her at Mr MacKenzie Brokers Row Drury Lane London.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01062", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 5 November 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Yesterday after the departure of the Post I received your letter of the 3d. I\n                            have since seen the answer to Adet. I perceive in it nothing\n                            intrinsically exceptionable\u2014but something in the manner a little epigrammatical and sharp. I make this remark freely, because the Card now to be\n                            played is perhaps the most delicate that has occurred in your administration\u2014And nations\n                            like Individuals sometimes get into squabbles from the manner more than the matter of what\n                            passes between them\u2014It is all important to us\u2014first, if possible, to avoid rupture with\n                            France\u2014secondly, if that cannot be, to evince to the People that there has been an\n                            unequivocal disposition to avoid it\u2014Our discussions therefore ought to be calm smooth inclined to the argumentative, when remonstrance and\n                            complaint are unavoidable, carrying upon the face, of them a reluctance and regret\u2014mingling a steady assertion of our\n                            rights and adherence to principle with the language of moderation, and as long as it can be\n                        I am the more particular in these observations because I know that Mr Pickering,\n                            who is a very worthy man, has nevertheless something warm and angular in his temper\n                            & will require much a vigilant moderating eye.\n                        I last evening saw Doctor Bayley our health Officer, who tells me, that the\n                            French Consul here in a conversation with an assistant of the Doctors, who is a refugee from\n                            St Domingo, expressed a desire to make arrangements for the sick of a French fleet expected\n                            shortly to arrive in this port. I thought this circumstance worth communication. With the\n                            most respectful Attachment I have the honor to be Sir Yr. very Obed. servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01064", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James Anderson, 5 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Anderson, James,Pearce, William\n                        I shall communicate such directions as have occurred to me since I left Mount\n                            Vernon, and are necessary to be followed, in this way; that such of them as may not be\n                            executed, or executed in part only, by Mr Pearce, may be consigned over &\n                            compleated, or attempted to be completed by his Successor,\n                        The Plan for the Crops of next year (as handed to me by Mr Pearce) may be\n                            adopted: or if he should have a meeting with Mr Anderson in time, and alterations should be\n                            proposed & agreed upon between them, I shall yield my consent thereto excepting as to\n                            the rotation at Dogue run, at which farm I am inclined to pursue the system mentioned in the\n                            plan for that place and hitherto, to wit.\n                        The Plans of the several farms. The rotations which had been designed for each\n                            farm. and the Book of Reports, are all to be transferred to Mr Anderson when he takes\n                            Possession together with the Book of Accts for his information & genl guidence.\n                        All accounts, of every kind & nature whatsoever, are to be settled; and\n                            all balances against me paid off before Mr Pearce surrenders his trust. and if those which\n                            are in my favor are not received, they are to be reduced to specialties, and promissary\n                            notes taken for the payment thereof, at a time to be agreed upon, to be inserted therein.\n                            These are to be given to Mr Anderson & a list of them sent to me. Unless this is\n                            done, and receipts taken in full. He or myself, will be plagued\n                            with old claims for this, or that thing which would never have appeard if Mr Pearce was\n                        All The Overseers & the Gardeners as well as others must therefore be finally settled\n                            with, up to the commencement of their new term, and charged with every thing they have had,\n                            over and above what they are entitled to by their several contracts, which express what that\n                            is, and which must be the guide in the settlements; as I am under no verbal engagements to\n                            any of them & consequently want nothing referred to me for decision.\n                        Mr Alexr Smith must be called upon, pointedly, for payment of his note, when\n                            due: and the money lodged in the Bank of Alexandria. It is on this fund you will, I presume,\n                            be obliged to draw to enable you to complete your payments; and it is from this source also,\n                            I must derive the means of providing necessaries for the house & family use; and for\n                            the various expences I shall be plunged into previous to, and on my resettlement (almost as a\n                            new beginner) when I arrive at Mount Vernon for my permanent residence. But admitting that I\n                            could afford to pay out of the money (which is not the case) it might not be prudent to\n                            avoid calling for it when due, as the endorser; if Smith\u2019s circumstances are ineligable,\n                            might attempt to avail himself of the neglect to exonerate himself from the payment. \n                        It is my earnest wish that the Mill race may be completed this Autumn or\n                            Winter, not only because it is highly essential it should happen before the droughts of next\n                            Summer, come on, but that I may have the Ditchers for other jobs, which I have in\n                            contemplation, as soon as possible after I get home.\n                        For these reasons, & because there will be a good deal of work in\n                            preparing for, and tilling the ground at Mansion house, in Indian Corn next year together\n                            with other jobs at, and about that place, it is my desire that Sinah & Grace both\n                            may join the house gang as soon as your family quit their present abode, & you\n                            yourself shall remove to Mount Vernon. Mr Anderson may chuse other girls, who will come\n                            within the description of his agreement.\n                        I should be glad to have as much of the New road (which I laid out) done before\n                            you go as circumstances will admit, as you understand my views in this business better than\n                            I could explain them to another without being on the spot. Let the line last staked out by\n                            Will receive double Stakes, to prevent mistakes; and let the stakes be extended backwards,\n                            exactly on the same straight line till it strikes the River; & inform me whereabouts it\n                            does so. have your logs for the floor of the Causey (in the low parts thereof) each be at\n                            least eight inches in Diameter & smaller poles between them to level the Surface. let the\n                            Logs & the Poles both be cut 16 & 8 feet in length for the purpose of breaking the\n                            joints. I would also have the line that was staked out by Allison (as the Corn field fence\n                            runs) continued up to the road (at the double stakes) and all within cleared this winter in\n                            the manner the other part of the ground was cleared last year. I do not expect this can be\n                            done in time for Corn planting; and I know too, that it cannot be enclosed until the New\n                            Road is completed and in use; but if this should be accomplished by Mid summer it might be\n                            put in turnips, or anything else that would clean the ground against the next year, when it\n                            would be my wish to lay the whole down in small grain and grass.\n                        Having given my sentiments with respect to the mode of thinning the Trees in\n                            the ground intended for Corn at the Mansion house, it would be unnecessary to say any thing\n                            further to you on the subject, if the execution could take place\n                            before your removal; but as this is not likely to happen, I must, for the government of Mr\n                            Anderson, repeat that no trees standing between the Visto\u2019s are to be cut down, or trimmed\n                            up; but that those on the right hand going from the house (on the left hand, if I recollect\n                            rightly, they are sufficiently thin already for the purpose of ornament, which is my first\n                            object) may be a good deal thinned, by taking them up\u2014invariably\u2014by the Roots. Where the\n                            trees stand very thick, leave circular clumps (of from 30 to 50 yards across) without\n                            trimming the Trees. But all single trees should be trimmed to one regular height, & as\n                            high as can be reached by a Chissel on a long staff; that the Corn may be less shaded in its\n                            growth. In leaving the clumps, if it can be done consistent with the thick growth of the\n                            Trees, pay attention to the look of them, in going to, or returning from the house.\n                        There are so many things I wish to have done soon, and so many others that are\n                            essential to do, that I scarcely know what direction to give concerning them\u2014but if the\n                            thinning of these trees in the manner here described could take place before you quit the\n                            concern it would please me, because you have had my ideas more fully explained to you on\n                            this subject than I should be able to give in writing, to Mr Anderson. Another advantage\n                            would result from the thinning, as soon as possible, this ground of the trees, and that\n                            is, that it may be immediately broke up by a number of strong Plows, and deep plowing, to\n                            enable it to produce better Corn next year.\n                        All the ground within the inclosure adjoining to this (at Mansion house) that\n                            was not in Wheat this year (and which was proposed to have been sown in Rye but not done so)\n                            I would also have put in Corn next Season; The part that was in Wheat, may be sowed with\n                            Oats and grass-seeds in the Spring; or, if judged better, might lye uncultivated; or be\n                            fallowed, so as to come into Rye in the Autumn with all the Corn\n                            ground in other parts at that place; or the Spring following may be wholly sown with Oats.\n                            My object being, to lay the whole, of those two inclosures (which may both of them be thrown\n                            into one, & the Rails which now divide them applied to strengthen the outer fencing) into\n                            grass & Pasture, after all the under growth, sprouts from the Stumps, &ca\n                        As the lot which was in Oats & Clover at Mansion house last year, is badly\n                            taken with the latter crop\u2014and the other lot in front of the house is pretty well set with\n                            that Article I leave it to you, from their present appearance, to decide wch of the two\n                            should come into Potatoes or Oats & Clover next year that it may be broke up this autumn accordingly.\n                        When the angle of Wood, adjoining the present Corn field at Mansion house is\n                            cleared let all the Poles which are of a proper size for a watled fence, either whole, or\n                            by being split in two, be preserved; as my intention is, when I come home, to have a neat\n                            fence of that kind, on a ditch from the White gates along the road, to the turn of it, as\n                            Allisons stakes will run to the present fence.\n                        When that lot by the Mill is cultivated, according to your plan, the ensuing\n                            year in Corn, let that part of it which lyes below the race in the lower meadow of the Mill\n                            Swamp, down to the ditch, or to the old bed of the run, be cultivated in Corn also, in order\n                            to cleanse & prepare it for grass. That part has been twice cleared & grubbed but for\n                            want of cultivation may be worse now than ever; wch shews the bad policy of undertaking, at\n                            any time, more of anything than can be compleatly executed under\n                            almost any circumstances. It is very desirable also, if it were practicable, to do the same\n                            in the next meadow above, between the Race and present good mowing ground, quite up to the next\n                            partition fence. Having these foul spots in fields, whether they are intended for\n                            cultivation, or for grass, is not only a great eye sore, but in truth they are a real\n                            disadvantage; for they are constantly encroaching; spreading their Seeds; affording harbour\n                            for Vermin\u2014and at length get so thick with briers, & other trash, as to make the clearing\n                            more difficult the longer it is delayed. Besides, in the present case, I think peculiar\n                            advantages to the Mill would be derived from clearing them up as the earth along side the\n                            race, by taking the growth of Shrubs &ca from it & by tillage, would become more\n                            consolidated, and not so liable subject to those leaks which are a great diminution of the water at\n                        I would also have that part of the Mill Swamp, which by your plan is destined\n                            as additional Corn ground for Dogue run, perfectly cleared & tilled, where it has been\n                            cleared before; for my object with that Swamp is, to make it perfect as I move on, towards\n                            the head of it, at the Tumbling dam. If one lot or inclosure after another was completely\n                            cleared & cleaned, with trees left here & there for shade, it would have a beautiful\n                            appearance from the Mill Road; & whether for Hay or grazing it would be highly advantages,\n                            to let the lots succeed each other in Rotation.\n                        Get the greatest quantities you can of Cedar Berries, before they are destroyed\n                            by Birds as I shall want them in profusion next year. If delayed too long you may be puzzled\n                            to do this, and next year the Trees may produce few, or none; which would throw me back two\n                        Let the Lane from the Barn at Union Farm be completed on both sides with cedar\n                            plants as far as you have them\u2014and then with the Berries afterwards (sowed sufficiently\n                            thick) after being prepared in the way formerly mentioned to you\u2014that is, by rubbing, or\n                            getting off in some way or other all the pulp, or glutinous matter which encompasses the\n                            Seed. The Plants, I am persuaded, in order to ensure their living, ought to be taken up in\n                            winter with a block of frozen earth around the Roots; and if the Seed is sown, it ought to\n                            be in a bed of well prepared earth, in the line they are ultimately to remain, in the hedge\n                        I request that a lane may be made by Post & Rail fences from the outer gate\n                            going into Dogue Run farm, across the meadow to the next gate of the wedth, and in a line\n                            with the fences from the last mentioned gate to the Barn. The outer gate may remain where it\n                            is, but the inner one may be removed to any place, where most wanted, this will not only\n                            divide the meadows but secure them better from trespassers.\n                            All the hedges which were planted last Spring, or Autumn, should\n                            be made good at the proper Season; otherwise the labour & materials which have been\n                            applied that way, will have stood for nothing; as an imperfect hedge forms no inclosure, &\n                            would be little better than a nuisance. The ground should be well prepared for this purpose.\n                            In truth, it is idle to put either plants or Seeds in to it without; for there is no better\n                            chance of their succeeding without cultivation, (until they arrive to a certain strength to\n                            protect themselves) than there is to expect a crop of Corn from merely putting the Seed in\n                            the ground and giving it no attendance thereafter.\n                        I would have the Corn gathered as soon as it can be with safety\u20141st to rescue\n                            it from the depredations of Squirrels & other animals that are devouring it; Secondly, to\n                            avoid the injury which the Wheat Sustains by Carts running over it after the ground begins\n                            to freeze, & get slippery on the top; and thirdly, because they will take heavier loads,\n                            & make more frequent trips before, than after the earth becomes soft & the Wheels sink\n                            into it either from Rain or frost.\n                        Some years ago, I had brought from Point Comfort, or some other place on the\n                            Bay of Chesapeak, a quantity of fine white Sand for the purpose of Sanding my houses anew\n                            when circumstances would enable me to give them a fresh coat of Paint. As it is my intention\n                            to do this the ensuing Summer, I request you would inform me if the sand is there still, &\n                            what quantity there is of it. To the best of my recollection it was put into the Salt house,\n                            or into the Cellar at the North end of the Mansion house. Whether it is to be found now, or\n                            not, I wish you would have a little of the whitest finest & softest of the free stone at\n                            the Wharf (not that which is rotten) pounded fine & run through a meal Sifter of middling\n                            finess, to see if it would not answer as well, or better than sand. If it would, a\n                            preference should be given to it on acct of its being on the spot and easily reduced to a\n                            powder; whereas the white Sand from below is not always to be obtained, and one is imposed\n                            upon in the price. To ascertain the difference with certainty between the Sand & pounded\n                            Stone take two pieces of Plank (plained, a foot square each will be sufficient) and paint\n                            them in the usual manner with white lead grd in oil and after the first coat is dry give\n                            them a second (the paint a little thicker) and while it is fresh throw (the board standing\n                            perpendicular on one edge) sand against one, & pounded stone against the other, as long as\n                            they will stick, & till every part of the paint is well covered. You will then, when they\n                            are dry, be able to decide which will look best and most resemble stone; which, together\n                            with the preservation of the Wood, are the ends to be answered by this operation. Let me\n                            know the Result of the experiment as soon as it is made, that I may know what measures to\n                        If it is not already done, delay no time in digging your Potatoes; when they\n                            are suffered to remain so long in the ground they rarely get sufficiently dry to keep well\n                            in bulk. Keep an exact account of what comes out of each lot, and the field at Dogue run\u2014that the quantity of the latter, may be compared with the quantity of Corn from the same\n                        Besides reserving an ample store of Potatoes for Seed (at all the Farms) next\n                            year, let there be a sufficiency of them, and Turnips also, laid by for the use of our\n                            Table, after we come home, in March next.\n                        Take particular care that a great number of (what you conceive to be) the best\n                            kind of Turnips, is set out for Seed\u2014among these let there be many of the Sweedish, as that\n                            sort is in very high estimation on many accts.\n                        Let particular care be taken of the India Hempseed, and as much good grd\n                            allotted for its reception next year as it is competent to Sow.\n                        As I am persuaded not a moment will be lost in grinding up my Wheat, I shall\n                            only add, on this head, that I would have the flour sold as fast as it is manufactured.\n                        In a particular manner I request that the Ice house may be filled from the first Ice that forms, & be replenished afterwards as fast as it\n                            sinks, and there is Ice to do it with. Let the house be examined before hand & repaired (if\n                            repairs are wanting) and everything had in the most perfect readiness to embrace the first\n                            opportunity without depending upon a second. The disadvantage of not being able to keep fresh\n                            meat, last summer (though generally a cool one) ought to stimulate to the greatest exertions\n                            to provide against the next when we shall have more, & longer occasion for this mode of\n                        If it shall be found, on experiment, that the pounded Stone answers as well, as\n                            sand for coating the houses, Frank, Herculas and Cyrus may get a good deal of it pounded.\n                            They may get up a large quantity of gravel at the place I shewed you. They may, when Davis\n                            & Muclas have done the Brick work at River farm assist them in throwing up Brick earth at\n                            the place I pointed out for at least One hundred thousand Bricks. They may assist the\n                            Gardener in making good the Hedges about the Mansion house, getting Dung into the Garden, or\n                            in any thing else. In short let them be employed in any manner at, or near the M. House that\n                            will Keep them out of idleness & mischief.\n                        The old white horse & the Iron Grey I would have kept in good order without\n                            being highly fed and this may happen as it is my desire they should not be used. The black\n                            and horse called Smoaker, it is also my desire should be kept in order for the use of Mr\n                            Anderson and not suffered to be hackneyed about. The four Mules set apart for my particular\n                            use\u2014together with the two mule colts from the Coach Mares and that one from the Augusta\n                            Mare I desire Peter may be particularly charged to keep them in good order.\n                        Such Sashes as are wanting in the Cupulo ought to be put in without a moments\n                            delay otherwise the weather driving in may do great damage to the house and occasion the\n                            Sealing of the rooms below to fall.\n                        In order that your Porkers may be made fat, & killed before you leave Mount\n                            Vernon (both of which I desire may happen) let them be got up immediately and well fed\n                            (inform me of the number). Our call for this article will, I expect, be pretty heavy after\n                        Before you quit the Concern, have an exact Inventory taken of all the Horses,\n                            Asses, Mules, Cattle, Sheep and Hogs (if the latter can be ascertained)\u2014together with the\n                            Carts, Plows, Harrows, Axes, Hoes Mattocks & every other\n                            impliment on the farms, and deliver one copy thereof to Mr Anderson and send another to me.\n                            He, of course will note down what each farm has that he may know when any are missing. He\n                            will provide himself, from the Booksellers in Alexandria, with a new Ledger to enter all\n                            these things in and to commence his Accounts anew.\n                        Endeavor to procure all the Oyster shells you can for me as I shall have\n                            occasion for a good deal of Lime next year.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01065", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 6 November 1796\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\nA Meteorrological Acct of the Weather kept at Mt Vernon                        Novr6th In the Morning48DE foggy54E foggy52E Cloudy7th50NE foggy55NE foggy52NE Cloudy8th52SW foggy56SW Cloudy54SW Cloudy9th50SW foggy54SW Cloudy52SE Cloudy10th50DE foggy54DE Cloudy52E Cloudy11th52SE foggy54SE Cloudy53SE Cloudy12th50NE Cloudy52NE Cloudy50NE Cloudy\n                        DaysDr. Mansion House for the Work of 11 hands amt. \u214c week to66Cr. By waggon hauling hay To town 2 days }2Broke down & mending 2 hauling wood to Brick yard 2 days4By Cart hauling wood to Brick yard 3 days3By Dito hauling hay to Mansion house3Jubo hauling wood to brick yard 3 Dito the Quota and at Mill 1 day}6By working on the causway 12 days12By Cuting wood and working In the Brick yard12By Peter In Care of Stables 6 days6By Sickness Maria 6 sam 612By Dito frank 6Total66\n                        Stock 1 Stud Horse 3 Stud Jack - 3 young Jacks - 9 Jinnies & 2 ass Colts - 6\n                            Horses 3 Brood Mares 9 work Mules - 12 out Mules 5 Colts 15 Cows.\n                        DaysDr. Ditchers for the work of 4 Men amt. \u214c week to24Cr. By Working on the Causway 9 days9By Working the B. Yard 6 - By Sickness Paschall & charls 9 Days1524\n                        DsDr. River Farm for the Work of 27 hands amt. \u214c week to162Cr. By ploughing In No. 2 12 day By hauling Corn to Mill 1 day14By hauling Brick wood 2 days - By Treading Wheat 1618By Measuring Potatoes 3 days By Cuting Brick wood 6 days9By Geathering Husking and Measuring & Lofting Corn119By Attending to stock 6 days By Sickness old Ben 612Total162\n                        Lofted this week 107 Barrells of Corn from No. 7 Fed to Fatning hogs &\n                            other Stock 10 Barrells Sent to Mill 18 Bust Stock 11 horses & 12 Mules & 1\n                        DaysDr. Union Farm for the Work of 23 hands Amt. \u214c  week to138Cr. By By ploughing 23 days - By pluling Corn 30 days53By Carting Corn - 10 By Loading Carts 20 By husking 2555By Lofting Corn 10 By Cleaning the Medow   10 Day20By Cuting Brick wood at River farm\u20144 days  4By London Cuting wood 6 days138Total\n                        Stock 14 horses 6 Mules 78 Cattle young & old 126 Sheep Sent to Mill 20\n                            bushels of Corn fed to fatning hogs 4 Lofted 59 Barrells this week.\n                        DaysDr.  Dogue Run farm for the Work of 16 hands Amt. \u214c week to96Cr.By Treading out Wheat 12 days By Digging  Potatoes 26     38By ploughing In No. 3 12 days12By Geathering & husking Corn 21 days21By Grubing & Cleaning before the plough  12 day12By Joe working with ditchers 66By Carting Brick wood at River farm 11By Sickness agness 2 & Simon 4 6Total96\n                        Stock 5 Horses 8 Mules one Colt -  69 Cattle young & old 148 sheep decrease 2 sheep\n                            died Sent to Mill 15 Bushels of Corn Lofted & Measured In all 67 Barrells of Corn\n                            Grew on the Medow fed To Fatning hogs & other stock 5 Barrells of Corn.\n                        daysDr. Muddy Hole Farm for the Work of 14 hand Amt.  \u214c week to84Cr. By Cart hauling of Corn 5 days\u2014at Mill 16By Cuting wood & working on the Causway  on the New roads12By Geathering Husking & Lofting Corn 45 days45By digging potatoes\u20149 days9By Sickness peg 6 days will 6 days12Total84\n                        Stock 7 Horses 4 Mules 33 head of Cattle 4 Calves 55 Sheep\u2014Sent to Mill 10 1/2\n                            Bushels of Corn Lofted 57 Barrells of Corn\u2014fed To fatning hogs & other stock 5\n                        Mill Dr. for Sundreyswheatwt.CornContra    Cr.flourMid.   MealB.To Muddy hole10 1/2By Muddy hole farm/2To Dogue Run farm15By Dogue Run farm110To Union farm20By Union Farm15 1/2  0To River farm18By River Farm13      0By Mansion house19 By John Neal 30 wt Mid.30Toll Corn this week3By John Elen 25 flour25By W. Pearce1By Cooper & Bays3/4\nCorn Ground for Farms 65 Bushels } Meal Delivered 69\n                        daysDr. Cooper for the work of 1 Man & a boy Amt. \u214c week to12Cr. By dressing out Stuff In the shop 11 /2 days11 1/2By hooping some hhogd   /2 day   /212\n                          daysDr.Spinner Sowers & Knitters for the work of 15 women Amounting \u214c week to 90Cr. By Betti Davis Spinning 6 pd of yarn6 daysBy Delia do             6 pd of do6By Alsce do             6 pd of do6By Anne do              6 pd of do6By Delphie do           2 1/2 pd of do6By Judit do             4 pd of stocking yarn6By Kitty do             2 pd of sowing thread6By Caroline sewing 5 suits of Clothes5By Charlotte do 5 suits of do6By Lucy Knitting 1 pear of stocking6By Daley spinning 6 pd of yarn6By Sieckness sall 6 days Matilda 6 days Doll 6 Ally 6 Caroline 125Total90 days\nBy Sam Peter Sieck 6 days \n                         daysDr.Gardens for the Work of 3 men Amounting \u214c week18Cr.By Digging & Burying the Cabbage12 daysBy Moses work by the Hous gangs 6 Total18 days", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01066", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Gustavus Scott, 7 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William\n                        Your two letters, dated the 31st Ulto, with their several enclosures, were\n                            received on thursday last. The one to Mr Wolcott has been delivered to him; but he seems to\n                            have no sanguine expectation of obtaining a loan from the Bank of the United States, for the\n                            purposes of the Federal City. He intended to communicate your offer to the President and\n                            Directors on Saturday and to support it with an expression of his wishes that you might be\n                            accommodated. He promised to write to you himself, by this day\u2019s Post, but did not expect he\n                            should be able to give the result of his application at that time.\n                        I gave him your letter for Messrs Willirck, to be forwarded to those Gentlemen,\n                            and shewed him the copy of it, as I had some doubt myself with respect to the offer of 7 1/2\n                            \u214c Ct \u214c Annum. His doubts of the eligibility of this offer under the Act of Congress guaranteeing the Loan, being\n                            still greater than mine, I requested he would give the matter mature consideration, and\n                            inform you of the result, if in his judgement it was inadmissible under the Act. You will\n                            observe that the objection lyes to the words \u214c Annum, not\n                            because the cost & charges in obtaining the loan may amount to this in the first instance\u2014As Mr Wolcott (if he is confirmed in this opinion)\n                            will write to you himself on this subject, I shall not enlarge except to inform you that I\n                            shall detain the letter until this point is decided.\n                        My opinion always has been (since the first Sale to Greenleaf) and still is,\n                            oppos\u2019d to large Sales of Lots, except in the dernier resort. I am more disposed therefore\n                            to try any other expedient to raise Money in preference. If these fail, and it comes to the\n                            alternative of Selling in the manner you propose, or suspending the operations altogether I\n                            shall have no hesitation in my choice of the first. I have no doubt of your being informed\n                            of the result of Mr Wolcotts application here, by Wednesdays Mail\n                            (if he says nothing thereon to day). If this fails, I will execute and forward the power\n                            authorising the other application to the Legislature of Maryland, by the succeeding Post.\n                        Enclosed is a Statement handed to me by the Proprietors of the Hotel in the\n                            Federal City, I told the bearer (one of them) who brought it to me that I would, simply,\n                            transmit it. If your answer passes through me, to them, let it be distinct from other\n                            matters, and so framed as that the letter may be turned over to them, under a blank cover.\n                            With great Esteem I am Gentlemen Your Obedt Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01067", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Ebenezer Hazard, 7 November 1796\nFrom: Hazard, Ebenezer\nTo: Washington, George\n                        On Saturday Evening I received a Package from London, containing among other\n                            Things some Pictures of our Friend Doctor Gordon, and the Correspondence between Messrs\n                            Wyvill and Pitt, one of each of which the Dr directs me to hand to your Excellency. I have\n                            the Honor to send them herewith, and remain, Your Excellency\u2019s Most obedient & very", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01069", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Landon Carter, 8 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Carter, Landon\n                        The letter you have been so good as to favor me with dated the 27th Ulto: found\n                            me in this City\u2014immersed in papers, and preparing for the approaching Session & busy\n                            Scenes with Congress; let this be my Apology\u2014then for doing little more at present, than to\n                            give your letter and its inclosure an acknowledgment. A time will soon come, I hope when I\n                            can do more; and be in a situation to profit from the relations you may give me of your\n                            further experiments. Permit me in the mean while to ask your solution of the following\n                            questions, being a warm frd myself to green in preference to naked fallows.\n                        1st Have you continued the alternate growth of Pease and Wheat, since the year\n                            1794, in the field refered to in your printed letter of the 29th of Jany of that Year?\n                        2nly In that case what has been the product of your crops in it since?\n                        3dly Has the field received any other aid, than what you supposed it had\n                            derived from the leguminous crop & mode of cultivating it?\n                        4thly If not what is the present condition of the field? Is it improving or\n                        5th Would the peas have yielded as well on a Stiff Loam, or clay, as on such\n                            light or sandy land as you have described yours to be?\n                        6th Did you drop them by hand or by means of a Drill plough?\n                        7th As there is a great variety in the tribe of Indian Pease, which kind of\n                            them have you cultivated? Some run and extend their vines so far as soon to impede the\n                        8th Is there always a ready sale of them? and at what Price?\n                        9th Could as many be bought now or in the course of\n                            the ensuing Winter as would sow or plant at the distances, and in\n                            the manner you recommend, a field of about 70 Acres?\n                        10th At what period would you choose the Pease should be planted or sown?\n                        11th In that case when would they be sufficiently ripe to\n                            harvest? or in other words how long do they usually remain on the Ground?\n                        12th by your sketch & the letter also is not expressed whether more\n                            than one plowing is given after the peas are planted, and their is a disagreement between\n                            the two the 1st throwing the mould to, & the 2nd from the peas? Is one plowing sufficient\n                            (especially if the Season is moist,) to prevent the ground from being\n                            foul wth grass, and hard as well as With large Weeds thereby rendering it unfit for the\n                        13th What is meant in the 4th paragraph of the sketch by the Words \"about the\n                            time of its sunning\"? And when does this sunning happen?\n                        14 As by the rotation, which is here contemplated the fields may be always in\n                            culture, what proportion of pasture or grazing ground would you give the farm, of any given\n                        I will make no apology Sir for giving you the trouble of Answering these\n                            queries. The Gazette containing your printed letter to the Agricultural Society in Culpeper\n                            is returned with my thanks to you for giving me the perusal of it. If the Experiment\n                            mentioned in the Sketch has been continued on the same fields as\n                            successfully as it appears to have been commenced there can be no rotation so simple, no\n                            dressing (if it is sufficient) so cheap\u2014nor any profit from field cultivation greater if\n                            progressive as you conceive it to be. With much Esteem\u2014I am your Obliged and Obedt Hble", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01070", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Smith, 9 November 1796\nFrom: Smith, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n                        Need usaly Allone is the Only Cause of my troubling You Once more when I wrote\n                            last I had Every Reason to beliave that it would be in my power to pay Your mony when Due by\n                            makeing Some Small Sacrafice but my hopes in Some mesure is blasted Since that\n                            time I have had payments withheld to Amtt   near\n                            ten thousand Dollars for flour Salt and Cash lent and I find that I\n                            Cannot Collect therefore Shall be Obliged to Give time I have Sufitiant to pay Every\n                            Gentlemn that I Owe One Shilling without Selling Reael Estate but at the Same time will\n                            Dispose of Any property I have to pay my Debts I therefore Request it as a Singuler favour\n                            to Only Give me Ninty Days more indulgance from the 24th this month At which time Your mony\n                            becoms Due you Shall have the Same inclosur I have\n                            Communicated my mind to Mr Wm Pearce and Showed him a Statement of my\n                                books in Order that he may more fully Sattisfey you that their is no\n                            Danger of Loosing Any mony by me at present I Do not think it will be in\n                            my power to take Up my note a few lines On this business will be\n                            thankfully Received By Your Obednt Hule Sert", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01071", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Thomas Beall, 10 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Beall, Thomas,Gantt, John Mackall\n                        To Thomas Beall of George, and John M Gantt, greeting.\n                        Whereas in and by certain Deeds executed by Amos Smith and others, whereby the\n                            whole Land of the Said Amos Smith and others, situate in the Town of Carrollsburgh and also of\n                            Hamburgh (now included in the City of Washington) is vested in you, subject to the Trusts in\n                            the Said Deeds mentioned; and whereas all the Lands belonging to Minors, persons absent out\n                            of the State, married women, or persons non compos mentis, or Lands the property of the\n                            State, are by an Act of the Assembly of the State of Maryland, intituled, \"An Act\n                            concerning the Territory of Columbia and the City of Washington\" subjected to the terms and\n                            conditions recited in the before-mentioned Deeds from Amos Smith and others; and whereas all\n                            the other Lands, belonging as aforesaid, within the limits of the said City of Washington\n                            are subjected to the same terms and conditions as Notley Young, Daniel Carroll of Duddington\n                            and others, have subjected their Lands to, by their Deeds of trust, respectively, and where\n                            no conveyances have been made, the legal Estate and Trust are, by the said Act of Assembly,\n                            vested in you, in the same manner as if each proprietor had been competent to make, and had\n                            made a legal conveyance of his or her Land, according to the form of those already\n                            mentioned, with proper acknowledgement of the execution thereof and where necessary for the\n                            release of Dower; and whereas it is provided in and by the several Deeds of trust mentioned\n                            in the before in part recited Act of Assembly, that you shall on the request of the\n                            President of the United-States for the time being, convey all or any part of the Land which\n                            shall not then be conveyed, in execution of the Trusts aforesaid to such person or persons\n                            as he shall appoint, in fee-Simple\u2014I do therefore in order to prevent any difficulties which\n                            may arise in the execution of the said Trusts, request you to convey all the Lands in the\n                            Towns of Carrollsburgh and Hamburgh vested in you by the said Deeds from Amos Smith and\n                            others; and also, all Land in the said City of Washington vested in you by virtue of the\n                            before in part recited Act of Assembly, to Gustavus Scott, William Thornton and Alexander\n                            White, Commissioners appointed under the Act of Congress, intituled, \"an Act for\n                            establishing the temporary and permanent Seat of the Government of the United States\" in\n                            fee-Simple, subject to the Trusts yet remaining to be executed; and you are further\n                            requested to convey, in like manner, to the said Gustavus Scott, William Thornton and\n                            Alexander White, a certain Island or part of an Island situate in Aquia Creek, in the\n                            county of Stafford and Commonwealth of Virginia, conveyed to you by George Brent, subject to\n                            the Trusts in the Deed of the said George Brent yet remaining to be executed. Given under my\n                            hand, this tenth day of November in the Year one thousand seven hundred and ninety Six.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01072", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 10 November 1796\nFrom: Hamilton, Alexander\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I have been employed in makig and have actually completed a rough draft on the\n                            following heads \"National University, Military Academy, Board of Agriculture, Establishment of such manufactories on public account as are\n                            relative to the equipment of army & navy, to the extent of the\n                                public demand for supply, & excluding all the branches already well\n                            established in the country\u2014The gradual & successive\n                            creation of a Navy\u2014compensations to public Officers\u2014Reinforcement\n                            of provision for public Debt\" I send you this enumeration that you may see the objects which\n                            I shall prepare for\u2014But I must beg your patience till the beginning of the next week for the\n                            transmission of the draft, as I am a good deal pressed for time.\n                        The Legislature having appointed Mr Laurance district Judge\u2014a successor will of\n                            course be to be provided\u2014A conviction of his competency, a high opinion of his worth, and a\n                            long established personal friendship induce me to take the liberty of precipitating a recommendation to you of Mr  Troupe, the\n                            present Clerk of the District and Circuit court (the Attorney of\n                            the District being known to be disinclined to the Office). Mr Troupe is a lawyer,\n                            professionally very respectable, so that his practice is inferior in productiveness to no\n                            other\u2014but he has by the most unexceptionable means acquired a property sufficient to make it\n                            reasonable in him to withdraw from practice upon a salary such as that of the District Judge\n                            & latterly his health has somewhat suffered from a long course of excessive application\u2014His moral character is without an\n                            imputation of any sort\u2014indeed no man in the state is better esteemed than this Gentleman\u2014So\n                            that, I believe, the appointment would be considered as altogether fit. I trust however that\n                            in expressing myself thus strongly it will not occasion to you a moment\u2019s embarrassment, if\n                            any candidate more agreeable to you shall occur. Very respectfully & Affecty I have the\n                            honor to be Sir Yr Obed. servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01073", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Gustavus Scott, 11 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William\n                        Enclosed is the Act with my signature, requesting Thomas Beall of George, and\n                            John M. Gantt. to reconvey to the Commissioners of the Federal City all the lands within the\n                            same which had been vested in them, in trust.\n                        Yesterday the Secretary of the Treasury shewed me the copy of the letter he had\n                            written, to you on Monday last, as also of the one he had addressed to the President\n                            & Board of Directors relative to your application for a loan from the Bank of the\n                        In consequence of the latter a Committee has been appointed to examine, and\n                            report their opinion on the said application: the result of which was unknown to him at that\n                            time. Until I am informed of this, I shall forbear to send the other Act, authorising the\n                            Resort to the Legislature of the State of Maryland. With respect & esteem\u2014I am Gentn", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01074", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Gustavus Scott, 11 November 1796\nFrom: Scott, Gustavus,Thornton, William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        We were duly favored with your letter of the 7th Inst. that the inaccuracy of\n                            our Clerk and our own inattention should have occasioned so much trouble to the Executive,\n                            excites sensations scarcely to be expressed. The Words per annum\n                            noted by you are not contained in the original Draft of the letter to Messr Willink, from\n                            which, the letter itself, and the copy inclosed with it, for your perusal, were taken; we\n                            think it is probable the letter may be right, if you will take the trouble to open it, and\n                            find it so, it may be sent on; but, lest the same error may have crept into it, we have\n                            written another Letter to those gentlemen, varying the expression respecting incidental\n                            charges, so as to leave no doubt of our meaning, & which, we think better than the\n                            first in its original form.\n                        The Statement of the proprietors of the hotel in this City, was not enclosed,", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01076", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Charles Mynn Thruston, 12 November 1796\nFrom: Thruston, Charles Mynn\nTo: Washington, George\n                        In Obedience to the requests of our fellow Citizens of Frederick County,\n                            contained in the enclosed resolutions, we beg leave to approach you with the sincerest\n                            affection, and for them and ourselves to express the extreme regret we feel, at the prospect\n                            of your retiring from that important Office which you have hitherto filled with so much\n                            honour to yourself, and so much to the interest of our common Country.\n                        Indeed, Sir, it is impossible to review, the great lenght of time which you\n                            have devoted to the service of your Country, the very critical situations in which you have\n                            so often been placed, the Wisdom and firmness which you have always displayed, the high and\n                            important Offices you have filled and the still more important services, which in the\n                            discharge of the duties of those offices, you have rendered to your fellow Citizens, without\n                            being imprest with the most grateful and affectionate regard for your person, and without\n                            experiencing the depest concern that your Country can no longer avail herself of those\n                            talents and virtues which have been so often and so eminently serviceable to her.\n                        Be pleased, Sir, to accept, of our most earnest and devout wishes for your\n                            future peace and happiness. May you experience, in that retirement which\n                            is your choice, every personal and domestic felicity which human nature is capable of\n                        May you long live to see that Country, which we believe you ardently love,\n                            happy in the complete fruition of Liberty and tranquillity. And May you finally be put into\n                            possession of that reward, which is prepared by the great Author of all good, for those who\n                            devote their lives to the happiness of thier fellow men. We have the honour to be, with\n                            sentiments of the greatest Esteem and regard Sir, yr Hbe Svts", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01077", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 12 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Hamilton, Alexander\n                        In due time, and in good order, I received your letters dated the 4th, 5th\n                            & 10th instt; and shall be mindful of their contents.\n                        What construction do you put upon the information received through the\n                            assistant of D\u2014r B\u2014? and what notice, if any, should it meet with now, or hereafter, if\n                            application should be made for leave, or the event take place without?\n                        Having sometime since, called upon the different Secretaries for such matters\n                            (within their respective departments) as required to be communicated to Congress at the\n                            opening of the Session, the enclosed papers are from two of them; one has given a shape to the\n                            ideas. From the Treasury department I have received nothing yet; and presume nothing will\n                            come from the Secretary of it except such matters as are of the fiscal kind, founded upon\n                        The Secretary of War has closed his notes, or draught, with a communication,\n                            a declaration, and an invocation, which I had no intention of introducing, if such sentiments\n                            could be avoided with that decent respect wch is due to such members of both houses as have\n                            been uniform & steady in their Support of those measures of government which I have\n                            thought the interest & welfare of this country required, and accordingly\n                        The reasons which have operated a reluctance in my mind to touch on this\n                            subject at the opening of the Session, are two\u2014First, that it\n                            might not be supposed it was introduced for the purpose of a complimentary notice of the\n                            event, by those who might feel a disposition to offer it; and secondly, that it might not\n                            embarrass others, who had rather be silent; much less put it in the power of a third set, to\n                            oppose (if it should be attempted) sentiments of this sort, in the answer to the Speech.\n                        These being my reasons\u2014judge of their force. If they out weigh what may be\n                            considered as indifference\u2014slight\u2014or disrespectful in me, towards the body to whom the\n                            Address is made, let them prevail. If not, adopt in whole, or in part, or new model\n                            altogether to your liking, the sentiments, or expressions of Mr McHenry.\n                        Among the things noted in my Memorandums, & not to be found in the\n                            enclosures is an intimation to this effect\u2014viz. that from the best information I have been\n                            able to obtain and from the best view I have of the general system of European Politics, and\n                            of the state of matters in the Mediterranean in particular, our Commerce in that quarter\n                            will always be upon a precarious establishment unless a protecting force is given to it. If\n                            Congress in their investigation of the subject should coincide in this opinion, it will rest\n                            with their wisdom to decide whether that trade, in particular, is of sufficient importance to\n                            countervail the expence of its protection. How much beyond this to extend the view towards a\n                            Navy, in the present uncertain State of our Fiscal concerns, merits consideration. My own\n                            sentiments lead strongly to the means of Commencement.\n                        This last article in addition to the several matters contained in the\n                            enclosures, and what will naturally flow from the texts mentioned in your letter, together\n                            with a general reference to the proper Officers for estimates\u2014Papers\u2014&ca\u2014alluded to\n                            in the Speech will comprehend every thing that has occurred to me, as necessary to be\n                            mentioned at the opening of the Session; and I would thank you\n                            much for letting me have the whole as early in next week as your convenience will permit\u2014at\n                            any rate on Saturday; with your opinion on the propriety of giving Congress a full statement\n                            relatively to the Situation of our affairs with France, as suggested in my letter of the\n                                 instant. With Affectionate regard\n                            P.S. I was in the very Act of closing this letter when yours of\n                                yesterday\u2019s date came to hand\u2014due consideration shall be given to the Contents of", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01078", "content": "Title: To George Washington from Rufus King, 12 November 1796\nFrom: King, Rufus\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I have had the honor to receive your Letter of the 25. of August and Doctr\n                            Nicholl whose advice I have asked has been so obliging as to give me information respecting\n                            the manner in which the order of the Court of Chancery should be published\u2014in a day or two I\n                            will procure its insertion in the proper news paper\u2014some little attention will be requisite\n                            to avoid as far as practicable the great Expence which commonly attends this kind of\n                            publication\u2014the News papers containing the notification shall be transmitted to you\n                            agreeable to your directions\u2014It is extremely difficult to form a satisfactory Opinion\n                            respecting the probability of peace\u2014I meet with few persons who appear to have much\n                            confidence in the success of Lord Malmesbury\u2014The Declaration of war by Spain, at a moment\n                            when England appeared to be making serious Efforts to conclude a general Peace, strengthens\n                            the belief of many, that France prefers still to continue the war: All\n                            the internal movements of this Government, that are visible; indicate a\n                            Determination to prosecute the war with vigour; The funding of the floating Debt earlier\n                            than usual, and at the commencement of the negotation with France, when its influence upon\n                            the Stocks is such as a measure so direct for the restoration of peace is calculated to\n                            produce, the Augumentation of the Militia by the addition of 60,000 men, and the means\n                            employed to recruit the regular Army, if Peace is near, would seem to be improvident &\n                            unwise\u2014but if the war continues, 12. millions will have been funded on advantageous Terms, the\n                            Government will have removed an important obstacle to the further use of their Credit, and\n                            by an increase of the internal Strenth of the Nation placed at their Disposal the regular\n                            Forces to be employed abroad.\n                        France will bend all her Energies against that Commerce in which England finds\n                            such immense Resources to prosecute the war, not by attacking her Navy, nor by attempting\n                            the threatened invasion, but by compelling the neighbouring Nations to Exclude the commerce\n                            of England from the great and profitable market of Europe\u2014England in Turn will endeavour to\n                            balance the Account, by conquering, or emancipating, the Colonies of Spain & France,\n                            thereby opening new, and extensive, Markets in another Quarter of the Globe\u2014should the war\n                            unfortunately still go on, the meditated Expedition against Canada by the Mississippi may\n                            possibly be undertaken\u2014I think it much less probable since the Evacuation of our frontier\n                            Posts by the British forces\u2014though I can not seriously believe that such an expedition will\n                            be attempted, still it may be the part of prudence to consider it as possible, in order to\n                            guard against its mischiefs.\n                        Spain enumerates among the injuries received from Great Britain, the Treaty\n                            concluded with us; and France was satisfied neither with that Treaty, nor with the\n                            subsequent one, that was concluded at a fortunate moment between us & Spain\u2014both may\n                            have been dissatisfied, from motives connected with the Project of an Expedition through the\n                            Mississippi. With perfect respect I have the honor to be Dear sir yr ob. & faithful", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01079", "content": "Title: From George Washington to James Ross, 12 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Ross, James\n                        A few months will put a period to my political existence\u2014And a few days\n                            afterwards to my Residence in this City; Which I never expect to see again.\n                        May I ask the favor of you therefore (if this letter should reach Your hands in\n                            time and Opportunities should present themselves) to Request and even to press, Colonels,\n                            Shreve & Cannon and Mr Charles Morgan to Settle & pay to you, before your\n                            departure, for Congress the balances respectively due from them to me, or if the money\n                            cannot be obtained from all or any of them, that I may at least Know what is due to me &\n                            What it is I have to expect from them, before I leave this City; After which their\n                            Communications with me Would be circuitous, if not hazardous.\n                        I have so often made apologies for the trouble I have given you in my Western\n                            concerns, that I will not repeat them on this Occasion\u2014but if the above named Gentlemen\n                            Would do as they ought, I could do more that is\u2014promise I will give you no further\n                            trouble in this business unless occasions should arise which may call for professional aid,\n                            And you would receive compensation for the services Rendered me. With very great Esteem\n                            & Regard I am Dear Sir Your Obedt & Obliged Hble Sert", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01080", "content": "Title: From George Washington to John William Bronaugh, 13 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Bronaugh, John William\n                        Your letter of the 24th Ulto did not get to my hands until after my arrival in\n                        I request you to be persuaded that I harbour no suspicion of unfair dealing\n                            from the repeated applications for your fathers Bond; but at the sametime that it is natural\n                            for you to be solicitous to possess it, it is equally proper that I should be perfectly\n                            satisfied that the Conditions of it have been complied with, before it is surrendered: and\n                            you will permit me to observe that, his Deed to Colonel Powell is no evidence of this, for\n                            the following reasons. 1. because it does not appear from hence, or anything else within my\n                            knowledge, that he has been requested by Colo. Muse to make this conveyance. 2. because\n                            after his sale of 2000 Acres to me, he still held 4000 in the said tract, to be disposed of\n                            as he should think proper\u2014and 3. because there is no recital in the Deed to show that either\n                            Muse or myself had any interest, or Agency in the Land; but on the contrary, that it has\n                            been sold for a valuable consideration, accruing to your father, and described as bounded by\n                            land belonging to Colo. Muse.\n                        Let me repeat, and I do it sincerely, that I have no suspicion of intentional\n                            error in this business, but as no possible injury can result to you from the delay in surrendering the Bond, but a very serious evil might accrue to\n                                me, by doing it, if Muse, with whom I exchanged the Land, has\n                            not had it conveyed to himself or to his order conformably to the views of the parties, it\n                            behooves me, on the score of prudence, to learn from the Representative of Colo. Muse (being\n                            told he is dead) whether by the conveyances which have taken place, I stand exonerated; or\n                            not. This may be known by an application to Mr Battaile Muse; from whom, if I recollect\n                            right I received a letter a few years since On this very subject, although I am not able to\n                            charge my memory with the precise contents of it at this moment.\n                        So soon as this is done I will give up the Bond, for if the conditions are\n                            complied with, it is no longer of any use to me, nor to any other person, that I can\n                            perceive. I am\u2014Sir Your Very Hble Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01081", "content": "Title: From George Washington to Francis Deakins, 13 November 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Deakins, Francis\n                        Your favor of the 12th Ulto did not get to my hands until I had been arrived in\n                            this City, sometime, or it should have received an earlier acknowledgment.\n                        It would have been pleasing to me, as much on acct of the esteem I feel for you,\n                            as for the satisfaction of viewing my land with more accuracy, to have found you at home. As\n                            the case happened, I took only a hasty & superficial view of parts of the Tract.\n                        I am very much obliged to you, for the trouble you have taken to obtain a\n                            settlement with Mr Jones for the Rents of the above Land, and as it is not in my way to do\n                            it, and besides, as I am entirely unacquainted with the circumstances attending the Tenants,\n                            in short as I know not what is due from either of them, or from Mr Jones himself, it would\n                            render me a very acceptable Service if you would be so obliging as to bring past\n                            transactions to a close; and advise me what had best be done in future, relatively to the\n                            Rents, the Tenants; and even the Land. With very great esteem I am Dear Sir Your Obedt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01082", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 13 November 1796\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        A Meteorological Account of the Weather\n                        13 In the Morng49S Cloudy54SW Clear52SW Clear14th48SW Cloudy53SW Clear51SW Clear15th48SW Clear52SW Clear51SW Cloudy16th47NW Clear51N Cloudy50N Cloudy17th47NE Cloudy51NE Cloudy49NE Cloudy18th48NE Clear55SE Clear53SW Clear1950SW Clear56SW Clear53SW Clear\n                        November 19th 1796DsDr. Mansion House for the Work of 11 hands amt.  \u214c Week to66Cr. By Waggon hauling Brick Wood 3 days hauling Barley & hay to Alexandria 3 days}6By Cart hauling Wood to the Boat 6 days6By Single horse Cart hauling Ditto 3 days hauling Wood to Mansion House Ferry &c\n  2 ds At Mill 1 day}6By Working on the Cosway 7 days7By tending the Brick kiln 9 days9By Gathering Ceder berries 6 days6By Working on the New mill race 1 day1By Peter in Care of Stables &c 6 days6By Sickness Sam 6 ds Misna 6 ds Frank 6 ds P. Joe 1 Day19Total66\n                        Recd from Mill 19 3/4 Bus of Meal Stock 1 Stud 3 Covering Jacks 3 young Jacks 9\n                            Jinnies 2 ass colts 1 year old horse colt 9 Work mules 12 Mules, 3 Brood Mares 1 young Mare 1\n                        DaysDr. Ditchers for the Work of 4 Men amts \u214c Week to24Cr. By Boatswain Attending Brick kiln 3 days3By Working on the cosway 13 days13By Working on the New mill race4By Sickness Pascall 4 days 4Total24\n                        Dr. Union Farm for the Work of 23 hands amts \u214c Week to138Cr. By Gathering husking & Lofting Corn108By plowing 20 days20By hauling Brick Wood at River Farm 4 days4By Sickness Rachal 6 days  6Total138\n                        Sent to Mill 20 Bus of Corn Recd 15 1/2 Bus of MealStock 14 horses 6 mules 69\n                            Cattle 10 Calves 126 Sheep Increase 4 Cows from M. HouseSent to the Mill for the Fatening\n                            hogs 5 Brs Corn Sent to the Ferry 2 Bar. Do Fed to Fattening hogs 6 Bar. of Ditto Lofted 166\n                        Dr. River Farm for the Work of 27 hands amts \u214c Week to162 dsCr. By plowing 20 days By haulg Corn to Mill 1 D.21By hauling turnips & Potatoes to town 2 days2By puling and Secureing turnips 26 days26By Gathering hauling husking & lofting Corn101By Attending to Stock 6 ds By Old Ben Sick  6 Ds 12Total 162\n                        Sent to Mill 18 Bus of Corn Recd 13 P of Meal Stock 11 horses 12 Mules 86\n                            Cattle 213 Sheep Sent to town 89 1/2 Bus of Barley 21 Bus of Flexseed 16 Bus of turnips\n                            & 10 Bus of Potatoes Fed to Stock 10 Bar. of Corn.\n                        DsDr. Muddy Hole for the Work of 14 hands amts \u214c Week to      84Cr. By Cart at Mill 1 day1By Gathering husking and Lofting Corn 71 Ds71By Cuting Wood 6 ds \u2014 By Working on the New road 6 Ds12Total84\n                        Sent to Mill 11 Bus of Corn Recd 8 1/2 Bus of Corn Stock 7 horses 4 Mules 31\n                            Cattle 20 Calves 55 Sheep Fed to hogs 6 Bar of Corn \u2014 Sent to Ferry 1 1/2 Bus of Oats Lofted 60\n                            Bar. of Long Corn 5 Do Short for Hogs.\n                        DsDr. Dogue Run for the Work of 16 hands amts \u214c Week to96Cr. By Plowing 17 days     17By Gathering husking hauling & Lofting Corn53By puling turnips & hauling them to M. House6By Joe Working With Mansion Hands 6 days6By hauling Brick wood at River Farm 4 days4By Sickness Dick 6 ds Judah 4 days10Total96\n                        Sent to Mill 15 Bus of Corn Recd 11 Bus of MealStock 5 horses 8 Mules 1 Colt\n                            57 Cattle 12 Calves 148 Sheep Fed to Stock 4 Bar. of Corn Lofted 76 Bar. of Corn.\n                        Dr. Mill for SundrysCornContra    Cr.S. F FlourMealBy M. House19 2/4To Union Farm20\"  Union Farm15 1/2\" River Farm18\"  River Farm13\" Dogue Run15\"  Dogue Run11\" Muddy Hole11\"  Muddy Hole8 1/2\"  Gos Cash1\"  Wm Stuart1\"  John Neile1\"  John Vilett1\"  Wm Pearce25\"  Cooper Miller & Boy1 1/4Corn Ground Farms64\"  Meal Delivered78\n                        Dr. Cooper & Miller for the Work 2 men amt. \u214c Week to12By filling up the Shop floor 1 Day Dressing  Stuff in the Shop 5 Ds6By Workg With house gang6\n                         November the 19th day 1796 Dr. Carpenters And Brick layers for the work of Ten Men \u214c Week Amounts to Sixty daysCr. By Covering of the quarter from the Ground to  the Top inside and Out and finishing of the Same44By the Sawers Sawing of Scantling for The  Barn Sheads &c 448Tom Davy and Mucless killing and Burning of the bricks &c Ten.10Mucless plastoring of the Overseers house  Union Farm2Total60John Neale\n                        daysDr.Spinners Sewers & Knitters for the Work of 15 Women Amounting \u214c Week 90Cr. By Betty Davis Spinning 6 pd of yarn6 daysBy Delia do             6 pd of do6By Matilda do           6 pd of do6By Dalsey do            6 pd of do6By Alsce do             6 pd of do6By Anne do              6 pd of do6By Judit do             6 pd of do6By Kitty do             2 pd of Sewing thread6By Delphie do           3 pd of yarn6By Caroline Sewing 6 suit of Clothes6By Lucy Knitting 1 pear of Stocking6By Sall Mind yarn6By Sieckness Charlotte 6 days Dall 6 days Alley 6 days18Total90 days\nBy Sam Peter Knitting 2 pear of Stocking 6 days\n                    daysDr. Gardens for the Work of 3 Men Amounting \u214c Week18Cr. By Digging in the Vinne yart9 daysBy Grabing up trees in the yard3By Moses Work by the Hous gangs", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-18-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Washington/99-01-02-01083", "content": "Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 13 November 1796\nFrom: Pearce, William\nTo: Washington, George\n                        I have Receved your Letter of the 6th Instant Together with the Memorandom and\n                            three heads of the Egyption wheat you Mention; This I have planted as you directed\u2014and as to\n                            the directions contained In the memorandom I will pay all the attention to them In my power,\n                            during my Stay on your Estate, and will Likewise point out to Mr Anderson your Ideas of the\n                            different things which you Spoke to me about when you ware here and In Every other part of\n                            your Business I will Give him all the Information In my power.\n                        With Respect to the free stone quarrey I have had Enough of the Stone made Bare\n                            for the person to Exammine It But as I Mentioned In my Last Letter I fear the Body of Earth\n                            that Covers It is too Great to work It to Advantage.\n                        What Ever part of the New Road I do have done shall be done well, but It will\n                        at the Time I mentioned Mr Neals Being Ill he was very bad for a few days but\n                            got better, and got to work again, but his Complaind has now returned and he is very weak\n                            and can scarcly go about\u2014we have got the Quarter at River Farm In its place and it will be\n                            nearly covered In this week. I have Inquired the price of oznabrigs In\n                            Alexandria But there is Scarcly any In town, and they asked me from\n                            2/2d. to 2/5d. \u214c yd for what was good for any thing by the Peice and to pay the cash Down\n                            for It and taking a considerable quantity I have Likewise Inquired the price of Linseed oil\n                            & paint which Is very scarce here oil is 9/ \u214c Gallon white Lead 24/ \u214c Cegg Spanish\n                            Brown 14/ dito yellow Ocor 1/ \u214c pound and none of any account is to be got here.\n                        The quantity of Barley made at Union farm 166 Bushels It Grew on 13 acres of\n                            land which you Measured by the fish house\u2014but there was about 3 acres of Land which Lay on\n                            the west side that had very Little on it so that I may say It Grew partly on 10 Acres. I\n                            have sold It for a dollar \u214c bushel\u2014with the Rest abt 300 bushels In all. I have had the Line\n                            of stakes on the Line of the new road Continued quite down to the River as you directed and\n                            It strikes the River by Cupits old house which stood In the Lot By my house.\n                        I have sent the higth of the Rooms upstaires & garett The Size of the\n                        The weather Still keeps dry\u2014we have had no rain since you Left this place the\n                            drought has I think Injured the wheat prety much.\n                        It was my Intention to have went to the Estern shore of Maryland before now but\n                            I have had the Rheumatism, so bad I was not able to Travel\u2014I am now some thing better\n                            & hope to set off the Last of the week\u2014and If nothing happens To prevent It I Shall\n                            be back in 5 or 6 days from the Time I Leave this place. I am with the Greatest Respect Sir", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0099", "content": "Title: Articles of Agreement with Theodorus Bailey, 5 January 1796 (Abstract)\nFrom: Bailey, Theodorus,Madison, James\nTo: \n5 January 1796. JM has sold to Theodorus Bailey and John B. Van Wyck his land known as lot number two of the Sedachqueda Patent in the Mohawk Valley of New York, amounting to approximately nine hundred acres, at $5.83\u2153 per acre, for a total of $5,250. Bailey and Van Wyck have paid JM $4,000 and have given him a note for $1,250 payable on or before 1 Jan. 1797. The parties agree to have the land surveyed at their joint expense and to adjust the sale price according to the results of the survey. The parties post a performance bond of $1,000.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0102", "content": "Title: Case of Randall and Whitney, [7 January] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n[7 January 1796]\n   Giles (Virginia) moved that Whitney\u2019s case be dismissed as it involved no breach of privilege. Smith (South Carolina) and several other members objected to Giles\u2019s motion, claiming that Whitney\u2019s conversations with a member of the House in Vermont (Daniel Buck) were as much a breach of privilege as if they had occurred in Philadelphia (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\n          the United States \u2026 (42 vols.; Washington, 1834\u201356)., 4th Cong., 1st sess., 222\u201323).\nMr. Madison said it appeared to him that the House could have no privileges, unless what arises from the necessity of the case. He differed from the opinion formed by the House, but he wished them to act in conformity to their own principle. The object at present before the House is, to keep its members free from corruption. Whether a proposal is made in town or country, if we dismiss names and circumstances, and look only to the substance of the thing, there is no distinction between the two cases.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0103", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 10 January 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir,\nPhiladelphia, January 10, 1796.\nThe House of Representatives have been latterly occupied with a pretty curious affair. Certain Traders and others, of Detroit, entered into a contract with certain individuals of the United States, for obtaining the peninsula formed by Lakes Huron and Michigan, and containing 20 or 30 millions of acres of valuable land. The traders, by means of their influence over the Indians, were to extinguish the Indian Title; and the other party, by means of their influence, and that of their connexions, with Congress, to extinguish the title of the United States. The Country was to be divided into shares, of which the greater part was to be disposed of by the party who had to deal with Congress. The reason of this, obvious enough in itself, has been sufficiently established by proof. Ever since the session commenced, two of the partners deputed to work the project through Congress have been employed with great industry, opening themselves in different degrees and forms, to different members, according to circumstances. Some of the members, who scented the criminality of the object, waited for a full disclosure. Others, through an eagerness of some sort or other, ran with the tale first to the President, and then into the House of Representatives, without concerting or considering a single step that ought to follow. In consequence of the information to the President, and a representation to the District Judge of the United States, a warrant issued, and the offenders were taken into custody by the Marshal. The House could not be prevailed on to take a single day to consider the subject, and a warrant issued from the Speaker, also, by virtue of which the Prisoners were transferred to the Sergeant-at-arms. For the proceedings which have ensued, I must refer you to the newspapers. They ended in the discharge of one of the men, and in the reprimand of the other at the bar, and remanding him to Gaol, where he now lies. In the arguments of the Counsel, and in the debates in the House, the want of jurisdiction in such a case over persons not members of the body was insisted on, but was overruled by a very great majority. There cannot be the least doubt, either of the turpitude of the charge, or the guilt of the accused; but it will be difficult, I believe, to deduce the privilege from the Constitution, or to limit it in practice, or even to find a precedent for it in the arbitrary claims of the British House of Commons. What an engine may such a privilege become, in the hands of a body once corrupted, for protecting its corruptions against public animadversion, under the pretext of maintaining its dignity and preserving the necessary confidence of the public! You will observe that a part of the charge consisted of the slanderous assertion that a majority of the Senate, and nearly a majority of the other House, had embarked in the job for turning a public measure to their private emolument. Apply the principle to other transactions, and the strictures which the press has made on them, and the extent of its mischief will be seen at once. There is much room to suspect that more important characters, both on the British and American sides of this affair, were behind the ostensible parties to it.\nThe Treaty has not yet been touched. I understand from Mr. Giles that the delay has been explained by him to you. A copy of the British ratification arrived lately, and it was hoped a communication of it would have followed. The Executive decided otherwise; and to appease the restlessness of the House of Representatives, Pickering laid the papers before the Speaker, to satisfy him, and enable him to explain the matter to others individually. This mode of proceeding does not augment the respect which a more direct and less reserved stile of conduct would inspire, especially as the papers were sufficiently authentic for any use the House of Representatives would be likely to make of them. It is now said that the original is arrived by a British Packet just announced from New York. Having been kept within doors by the badness of the day, I have not ascertained the truth of the account.\nI have letters from Col. Monroe of the 23 and 24 of Octr. His picture of the affairs of France, particularly of the prospect exhibited in the approaching establishment of the Constitution, is very favorable. This, as far as we know, has had an easy birth, and wears a promising countenance. He had not learnt with certainty the ratification of the Treaty by the President, but wrote under the belief of it. His regrets, and his apprehensions, were as strong as might be expected. I have a letter from T. Paine, which breathes the same sentiments, and contains some keen observations on the administration of the Government here. It appears that the neglect to claim him as an American Citizen when confined by Robespierre, or even to interfere in any way whatever in his favor, has filled him with an indelible rancour against the President, to whom it appears he has written on the subject. His letter to me is in the stile of a dying one, and we hear that he is since dead, of the abscess in his side, brought on by his imprisonment. His letter desires that he may be remembered to you.\nI inclose a copy of the proceedings relating to the presentation of the French flag. What think you of the President\u2019s Jacobinical speech to Ad\u00e8t?\nRandolph\u2019s vindication has just undergone the lash of the Author of the \u201cBone to gnaw.\u201d It is handled with much satirical scurrility, not without strictures of sufficient ingenuity and plausibility to aid the plan of running him down. By Mr. Carr, who is now here, we will endeavor to contrive you a copy.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0105", "content": "Title: To James Madison from John Dawson, 12 January 1796\nFrom: Dawson, John\nTo: Madison, James\nDr Sir!\nRich: Jay 12. 96\nI am favourd with your letter of the 30th. of the last month. I have nothing to give you in return.\nThere are at this place two British agents purchasing openly horses to take to the W. Indies. They get some & want many. Is this right? I hope to see you in the beginning of the next month. Make to Mrs. Madison & recieve yourself my best wishes! Yr.\nJ Dawson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0106", "content": "Title: To James Madison from James Monroe, 12 January 1796\nFrom: Monroe, James\nTo: Madison, James\nDear sir\nParis January 12h. 1796.\nYours of the 6h. of April is the last I have received from you, though since that period I have written you eight or ten at least. The theatre too on which you are, has been and probably will continue to be an interesting one, for it is presumeable the same subject which creates such solicitude among the People at large, will produce a like effect among their representatives. Certain it is, that the temper which was shewn upon that subject by the people with you, has produced a happy effect here, and moderated greatly the resentment which began to display itself, before their sentiments were known: for as soon as this government saw that the people were dissatisfied with the treaty, and that a strong motive for their dissatisfaction proceeded from the interest they took in the welfare of france, from that moment it was obvious its chagrine diminished, and that in sympathy with us again, it gradually lost sight at least to a certain degree, of its own concerns, so far as they were supposed to be affected by that treaty, and became instead of a party in, a spectator of ours. This is the external view of the effect which Mr. Jays treaty and its incidents produced upon the Councils and people of france, and more than the external view I cannot give you, for I deemed it upon every principle most suitable for me to stand aloof upon that subject never touching on it, except when mentioned informally to me, and then confining myself strictly within the limits observed by the other party, giving such explanations only as were sought, and inculcating always good temper and moderation on the part of this government towards us as the surest means whereby to unite for ever the two republics, whether therefore the subject has been acted on by the directoire or will be, or what will be the result in case it is I cannot tell you.\nThe progress of this government is so far wise, steady and ene[r]getic. Its outset was distinguished by an effort to introduce into every department of the administration the most rigid \u0153conomy, and whereby many abuses were reformed, and the public expenditure greatly diminished. The finances were in the utmost confusion, the assignats having depreciated almost to that point beyond which they would not circulate, and there was no other resource. The directoire exposed freely this state of the nation demanding funds to carry on the war, and adding without which it could not be carried on, recommending too at the same time the project of a forced loan, whereby about twenty five millions sterling in specie would be raised, and which was adopted. By this project the assignats were to be redeemed or taken in, in discharge of the loan at one hundred for one, and which would consume of it, about twelve millions sterling, rather less than one half of the loan, specie and produce only are admitted for the residue. This loan however forms a fund upon which the assignats may be circulated again, and upon which they will most probably, for a while and until some more complete system is adopted, be circulated again. By this paper I am told a great portion of the ancient debt is discharged, so that by it the war has not only been carried on to the present stage (deducting the amount of the national domains that are sold and paid for) for nothing, but the nation exonerated from a considerable portion of that debt, which depressed it before the war. This loan is now collecting and without exciting any great murmur among those upon whom it falls. The forms of business too in both houses are correct and discreet, according to our ideas on the subject, and their attention seems so far to have been bestowed on the most urgent topics, and in general the result such as might have been wished. In short in every respect the character of the public councils has greatly altered for the better; the effect whereof is plainly to be discerned in the public opinion as well as public measures: for you observe among all classes an increasing opinion of personal safety, at the same time that the government displays a degree of energy that was never surpassed before. The royalists begin to despair for they know that the hopes of royalty are gone as soon as the genuine character of republican government is unfolded. Their hopes were founded in the continuance of anarchy and confusion, to promote which of course all their efforts were united. Intemperate zeal too is restrained, but the restraint is always easy, indeed it is a self-one, or rather it does not exist, when the administration possesses the confidence of the People and wields the government according to their wishes. I give you the aspect up to the present time, and to which I add with pleasure that the probability is it will continue.\nYou will doubtless hear before this reaches you that there is a truce between france and Austria, and which was asked by the Austrian generals. When a truce is asked and granted it argues that neither party has essentially the advantage over the other, or it would neither be asked or granted, and such was I believe the fact in the present instance. The proposition from Austria was for a truce for three months, but admitted by the Directoire for one only. What the motives of Austria are, is unknown: that peace is among them, perhaps the principal one is presumeable. By some it is suspected that the Message of the English King to his Commons, was the immediate stimulus, since as the same Persons suspect, that measure was taken in haste, in accommodation with existing circumstances on the spot, and of course without the knowlege of Austria, whereby and especially as the former objects of the war were abandoned, a disposition for peace avowed, the jealousy of that power was excited. Perhaps however it may be a mere financing project on the part of Austria, in the hope that by appearing to seek peace a loan for the next campaign may be more easily obtained from England. But my opinion is, there is a negociation for peace depending, and which may probably have that issue with Austria, if not with other powers and the southern more especially. The moment Austria makes up her mind to yield Belgia, the war with her is over, and the ruin of her army in italy with other events, may have inclined her to that measure, whilst the light advantages she has gained on the Rhine may have suggested the idea that now is the time to treat with some apparent credit. But with England there will probably still be difficulties, for I think france will never hear a proposal from her upon the subject of peace, that is not preceded by a declaration that she will restore every thing taken since the commencement of the war from herself and Holland, and which it is possible her present superiority at sea may prevent: certainly it would prevent it, if the discontents of the People there, and which daily increase on account of the scarcity of bread, and the dearness of it, which latter proceeds not more from that cause, than the superabundant circulation of paper, which raises the price of every thing, and threatens more fatally to impair the manufactures and commerce of that Country, than even long and destructive wars by all their other evils.\nYou will also have heard of the demand of Count Carletti Minister &c. from Toscany to visit the \u201cunfortunate daughter\u201d of Louis 16h. who was on her departure for Basle, to be exchanged for Bournonville and several of the deputies who were surrendered to the Austrians by Dumourier, and of the Manner in which that interference was resented by the directoire; suspending all intercourse with him, and ordering him forthwith without the bounds of the republic. The Count explained and expostulated but without effect. The diplomatic Corps convened, and by some of whom it was urged, that the Count could not be Suspended, and ordered without the republic by any but his own Sovereign, except in case of conspiracy: that the order to that effect was of course a violation of the rights of nations. And by others it was urged that every government had a right to rid itself of a minister who gave offence, and by its own means: that to demand his recall, was upon trivial occasions the ordinary usage, but that it was not prescribed by the law of nations, but by that of civility and good manners only. Was this however a light occasion, a demand by the representative of a foreign power to visit the \u201cunfortunate &c\u201d thereby stigmatizing the revolution and reproaching france for that effort which she deems a glorious one? If demands of this kind are allowed from the representatives of other powers, what kind of demands will be inhibited? And if it be meant to check such, is it not best to do it upon such occasion, and in such manner as the present, whereby the sense of the french government being decisively pronounced, will be well understood at home and abroad? The meeting broke up without a decision; notwithstanding which it was published in all the gazettes, that the whole diplomatic corps had united in a remonstrance to the directoire against its procedure in this case without effect. Upon which another meeting was called and held for the purpose of expressing to the government, the sense which the members of that corps felt of the injury, which was done them by that misrepresentation, and to request of the Minister of foreign affairs since he knew that no such step was taken, that he would contradict the report. Upon this proposal too no decision was obtained: by it however the spirit of some of the Members of that Corps was checked, and the body itself perhaps freed from like attempts, to involve it in the interior and revolutionary politics of france, and against the spirit of the revolution, for the future. But the Count replied to this government, he would not withdraw until he had the order of his own, upon which it was notified to him if he did not commence his route within twenty four hours, he should be sent out by force, and to which a like reply was given. The twenty four hours expired at which moment a Commissary with a Carriage attended to take his orders for Basle, and by means whereof he was conducted to Basle, and with all convenient speed. The Communication of this event, and its incidents was made by the french minister to the Grand Duke &c. by whom it was well received: for instead of taking it in high dudgeon as was expected by many, he dispatched immediately, and upon the first intimation of it, a minister plenipotentiary (the prince of ) for the express purpose of disavowing the demand of Carletti, and declaring his respect for the french government, and so rapid were the movements of this Envoy, that he is already on the ground, and has already made his disavowal to the Minister of foreign affairs. By this measure therefore the french government has lost nothing without, and certainly within, and especially by the manner in which it has terminated, it will acquire great respect.\nI am inclined to believe that England does not mean to execute the treaty & intends to justify her evasion by any obstacles the H. of R. may throw in its way. If then any thing is done it is to be hoped the administration will immediately change to give an opportunity to try the effect of other councils it is late to do it but I think not too late.\nOf the above except the last paragh. I have sent copies somewhat modified to Colos. Burr & Langdon. You will excuse me to Tazewell, Mason, Beckley, Butler & Brown & other friends, to whom you will make my best respects.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0107", "content": "Title: Indian Trading Houses, [13 January] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n[13 January 1796]\n   The clerk read for the third time the bill establishing trading houses with the Indians. Salaries and penalties were fixed for the agents and the clerks, and $150,000 was proposed as the sum to be expended on goods (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\n          the United States \u2026 (42 vols.; Washington, 1834\u201356)., 4th Cong., 1st sess., 240).\nMr. Madison after remarking that he had very little confidence in plans in which the government takes the place of individuals, said, in order to mature this plan and render it susceptible of the highest probable success, he thought a short postponement might answer a valuable purpose. Adverting to the time necessary to procure the goods proper for this trade, he supposed that individuals would be the importers and that a few days delay would not essentially affect the main object.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0110", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Hubbard Taylor, 16 January 1796\nFrom: Taylor, Hubbard\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nClarke County 16th. Jay 95 [1796]\nI Recd. yours soon after my arrival in Kentucky, informing me that you had acceeded to my proposition in settleing with Majr Moore.\nYour Land on Sandy was surveyed by direction of Majr Lee previous to my return, it Joins as I am told a tract of John Greens. If so, it may be of more value than was apprehended, as there is a valuable Salt lick on the Land claimed by Green. It is also said that there is a valuable mind [sic] in the neighbourhood, of lead at least\u2014some say silver. I only mention this that in case of any application to purchase you may be on your gard. Majr Lee is acquainted with this circumstan[c]e, and altho. he, no more than myself mean to excite your attention too much yet I thought it right to mention it.\nThat such a mind is found I have no doubt.\nI have seen Mr. Bullock but not long enough with him to get much satisfaction, one tract of Mrs. Paynes Lands will be got in a part of the Country that is very valuable, lying near the upper blue hills. It is a doubt with Mr. Bullock wheather the entry on (Green River) (Petmans Creek) belongs to Mrs. Payne or not. As I shall have occation to write you again shortly shall only add that I am with Compts. to Mrs. Madison Dr Sir with much esteem Yr: Affe: Hbl: Set\nH. Taylor", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0112", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Joseph Jones, 18 January 1796\nFrom: Jones, Joseph\nTo: Madison, James\nDr. Sr.\nFredg. 18th. Janry. 1796.\nI have been absent a fortnight on a visit to Albemarle\u2014while there I went over all the papers and could find nothing among them answering the expectation of Mr. Knox and yet I think Monroe had some communications from the old Gent. himself or one of his Daughters to the purport of what Mr. Knox supposes he possessed. There were many papers and some statemts of Monroes respecting this business but I can find none of them. I have letters from Monroe and Joe of the 24th. October, all then well. Monroe informs me he had requested pickering to pay to you for me 400 dols. on pickerings own acct. and I think if I do not mistake his meaning the further sum of 300 dols. on acct. of Paine. If you have recd. any letter from him to the effect I have mentioned or can by application to Pickering get the seven hundred dols. on his accot. I shall thank you to pay to Philips, Cramond & Co. the amount on accot. of Mr. Southcomb of this place taking their rect. on his accot. as Southcomb holds bonds now due of Col. Monroe\u2019s on accot. of his purchase for the Carters to the following amount \u00a3166.15.0. with int from 20th. Sepr. 1795. \u00a360.2.0 with int from the 1st. Apr: 1794. If those sums can be placed to Southcombs credit with Philips and Co. I shall by paying the small balance here take up his bonds. I have enquired respecting clover Seed and cannot get any here, I find Collins advertizes clover seed in Richmond but know n\u27e8ot\u27e9 at what price. I understood he some time ago demanded sixteen dollars. I shall write to be informed whether he has any left and at what price. At the request of Monroe I some time ago wrote to Fowler to obtain the patent for the Rock castle land and contrive it to you. I gave the letter to Mr. H. Taylor and expect it was delivered. In his last letter Monroe again mentions this matter and desires me to send it to him when obtained. Let me know if you have heard any thing of it or wher. there is a ready communication to Kentucky and where Mr. Fowler lives or how to direct to him. Mr. Or\u27e8r\u27e9 I expect can inform you. I trouble you with a letter for Monroe and shall thank you to attend to the transmission of it to France. I shall soon give you a similar trouble to multiply chances \u27e8as\u27e9 I hear of no opportunity from Virginia. The French flag seems to have inspired the P. with all the zeal and warmth for repub\u27e8lican\u27e9 liberty that the French themselves possess. The strain of his answer cannot be very pleasing to his treaty friends at N. Y. I am in hopes he is veering about. Wishing you all well I am Yr. friend & Servt.\nJos: Jones", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0115", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Robert Murray and Company, 20 January 1796\nFrom: Robert Murray and Company\nTo: Madison, James\nSir\nNew York January 20th. 1796\nYours of 13th. Inst reached us in course & this day Edwd Livingstons Dft on Mr. Livingston was paid 107 31/100 Dollars to your Credit, being the amt of sundry expences attending the importation of the Two Cases furniture from Havre de Grace. We remain respectfully Your Obedt. Servts.\nRobert Murray & Co", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0116", "content": "Title: Appropriations for 1796, [20 January] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n[20 January 1796]\n   The House continued the debate of 19 January on striking out the appropriation for the Mint. Livingston (New York) had moved that pensions for officers of the Mint be excepted from the resolution (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\n          the United States \u2026 (42 vols.; Washington, 1834\u201356)., 4th Cong., 1st sess., 262\u201363).\nMr. Madison wished that the articles could be separated from the civil list, when they are of a nature to admit of dispute. The military expences had been separated from it, because an emergency might render it necessary to vote instantly for the civil list, and the military expences, by being connected with the other, might be voted without due deliberation. He wished that the articles could be divided, and the vote taken on them separately. He was not against voting for pensions to the officers of the mint. He saw no harm in doing so, in the mean time.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0118", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Francis Taylor, 23 January 1796\nFrom: Taylor, Francis\nTo: Madison, James\nLetter not found. 23 January 1796. Mentioned in JM to James Madison, Sr., 21 Feb. 1796, and in Francis Taylor Diary (Vi). Concerns Taylor\u2019s claim for Revolutionary service and encloses a memorial to Congress.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0119", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Arthur Campbell, 24 January 1796\nFrom: Campbell, Arthur\nTo: Madison, James\nSir\nWashington Janr. 24. 1796\nAllow me to give you the trouble to deliver the inclosed to the President of the U. States and I confide in you to give him such an explanation as may be necessary.\nThe purport of the communication is that I have offered my services with a Corps of Voluntiers to aid in taking possession of the Western Posts next Summer. I know Regulars are usually prefer\u2019d for such service, but why not encourage Militia. And you may be assured that it will impress awe to see a select Corps of Rifle-Men from the Country usually call\u2019d by the Indians The Big-Knife. To view our power, may contribute to the duration of the Peace, at least with the Savages.\nI am one of those Citizens, who have but little confidence in the British government to do us justice, altho stipulated by solemn Treaty. But you know it is the duty of a good Christian or a good Citizen to bring as much good as possible out of evil. The Treaty may be the best that could be obtained, and I have reason to conclude so, or our staunch Patriot would never have given it a sanction. On the other hand I believe it will give its operation a favourable turn, for us, if the clamour and reasoning against it continues. Fear will always gain more from an insidious Enemy, than a tone of unconditional submission.\nI had thoughts of making the application thro\u2019 the Representative of this District. He is a young Man who have not seen the labours of the Revolution, and felt none of the solicitudes for his Countrys political existance from 1776 to 1782. It is the Patriots of those days, I call my Brothers, my fellow Citizens, my Friends. Health & Fraternity\nArthur Campbell\nP. S. If my Overture is favourably noticed, on receiving an intimation I will repair to Philadelphia. Governor Shelby, who is my particular Friend, will aid me in the undertaking. For my sentiments and that of several other old Whigs on late politics, see Atticus in the Winchester paper of Novr. 9. & 16th.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0120", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Thomas Jefferson, 24 January 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Madison, James\nLetter not found. 24 January 1796. Acknowledged in JM to Jefferson, 7 Feb. 1796; mentioned in Jefferson\u2019s Epistolary Record (DLC: Jefferson Papers) and in JM to Jefferson, 10 Apr. 1824 (DLC). Acknowledges JM\u2019s letters of 27 Dec. 1795 and 10 Jan. 1796. Asks JM to make some inquiries in Philadelphia, to inform Jefferson weekly of governmental proceedings, and to send certain pamphlets. Requests copies of the correspondence of Jefferson and Jay. Encloses copies of Jefferson to George Wythe, 16 Jan. 1796 (DLC; printed in Ford, Writings of JeffersonPaul Leicester Ford, ed., The Writings of\n          Thomas Jefferson (10 vols.; New York, 1892\u201399)., 7: 52\u201355), and \u201cA statement of the Volumes of the Laws of Virginia, Manuscript & Printed in my possession,\u201d 13 Jan. 1796 (DLC).", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0122", "content": "Title: From James Madison to James Monroe, 26 January 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Monroe, James\nDear Sir\nPhilada. Jany. 26. 1796.\nSince my last I have had the pleasure of your two favors of Ocr. 23 & 24. The business of the Treaty with G. B. remains as it stood. A copy of the British ratification has arrived; but the Executive wait, it seems, for the original as alone proper for communication. In the mean time, altho\u2019 it is probable that the house if brought to say yea or nay directly on the merits of the treaty will vote against it yet a majority can not be trusted on a question for applying to the president for the treaty. In the mean time also information has arrived of the conclusion of a treaty with Spain with which the other will of course be combined. No hint of the terms is yet given to the public nor are they probably otherwise known to the executive than by the instructions. That provision is made for Missisipi is to be presumed. Its aspect on the Missisipi article in the British treaty will be particularly interesting. Among other attitudes given by this event to our situation it is highly probable that the Spanish treaty will comprise stipulations at once popular and similar in principle to some attacked in the British treaty.\nGeneral Smith of Baltimore has offered to the House a resolution that after the  day of  no vessel shall land in the U. S. any articles not produced by the Country to which the vessel belongs. It will embarrass the eastern members but they will venture to oppose it as tending to perplex the treaty question; and probably with success if joined by the south members as hitherto from other motives.\nYou will be pleased & perhaps surprised at the scene produced by the French flag. The harangue of the president must grate the British party but they are cunning enough to be silent. It seems that Adet notwithstanding the complimentary & cordial language of the president and Representatives, is much disgusted at the deposit of the flag elsewhere than in the hall of Congress. You can perhaps better appreciate the case than we can. Such a result, where other circumstances were so propitious is unfortunate. I send a copy of the proceeding. I also send a copy of the proceedings in the case of Randal & Whitney, which need no comment, beyond your own reflections.\nI send also E. R\u2019s Vindication, with a malignant attack on it, by a satirical but scurrilous writer. The latter has published several other pamphlets exhibiting him in the same character. Bond is among the putative authors. But the real author is probably some hireling to whom materials may be supplied. Randolph is resettled at Richmond & resumes the practice of the law with flattering prospects as is said. The effect of his pamphlet is not yet fully known. His greatest enemies will not easily persuade themselves that he was under a corrupt influence of France and his best friend can\u2019t save him from the self condemnation of his political career as explained by himself. The \u201cPolitical Observations\u201d is a fugitive thing of my own written at the heel of the last session in pure compliance with the urgency of certain friends. It is full of press blunders as you will perceive.\nWe have accounts here that Mr. Paine is dead. I spoke to Mr. Bache on the subject of the advance by you, to be repaid for Mr. Paine, thro\u2019 my hands. He said only that he would call on me & shew me the papers, which he has not done. I inferred from his manner, that there was a deficit of funds in his hands to be explained by him. I heard nothing from Mr. Pickering on the other pecuniary subject. Just as I am making up this packet, I have the pleasure of a letter for you from Mr. Jones, which will no doubt give you all the requisite information for which you rely on him. Mrs. M. seconds all the acknowledgments due to you & Mrs. Monroe, as well as the affectionate esteem with which I ever remain Yours\nJs. Madison Jr.\nP. S. Chs. Lee has entered on the duties of Atty. Genl. No Secr\u27e8etary\u27e9 at War yet nominated\u2014nor any Judge in the place of J. Rutlege, or \u27e8of\u27e9 Mr. Blair who has resigned. Mr. Rutledge also sent his resignation; but the Senate had previously rejected him.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0123", "content": "Title: To James Madison from John Browne Cutting, 26 January 1796\nFrom: Cutting, John Browne\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir,\n98 South Second St 26th Jany. \u201496\nI ought perhaps to apologize to You for the liberty I take and have taken. But in a matter so highly interesting to my personal character\u2014I have venturd to obtrude myself\u2014I fear abruptly, upon your valuable hours\u2014desirous to be indulged in consulting you upon this occasion both as a man of honor and a republican statesman.\nFor however confident I am of the merits of my claim I shall disdain to enforce it\u2014if any intelligent and ingenuous mind\u2014acquainted with the proofs that support it\u2014can entertain a doubt of its reality. Your answer to two questions\u2014will materially influence my future proceedings relevant to it.\n1. Is the claim considered by You, agreably to its peculiar circumstances so establish\u2019d as to entitle me to a relaxation of the ordinary rules of evidence for the purpose of doing substantial justice between the public and the claimant?\n2dly. Is the claim considered by You as a matter of State so establishd as to become obligatory upon the honor & faith of the Government?\nHaving thus determin\u2019d respectfully to solicit your candid opinion as the best guide for my future conduct in this matter\u2014I remain with sentiments of attachment and the most perfect respect Your Obedt and Very Humble Sert.\nJohn Browne Cutting", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0124", "content": "Title: To James Madison from George Taylor, Jr., 30 January 1796\nFrom: Taylor, George\nTo: Madison, James\nSir,\nPhiladelphia January 30th. 1796.\nIt is with pain I find myself constrained to trouble you on the present occasion. Nor should I now do it, but from a reluctance to petition the House. This I have already done twice unsuccessfully, and I should suppose the chance of succeeding, at this moment, in that mode, still less favorable than hitherto. But, sir, I conceive there never has been a time furnishing more real cause for uneasiness on account of salary. For verification of this fact, let every Gentleman who has a family, appeal to his own daily and necessary expenses. He will doubtless find them enormous, and may perhaps, upon reflection, wonder how any one can subsist on the small and inadequate salaries allowed to Clerks. But, sir, should the compensation be confined to a bare support? I can hardly imagine any one will say that it ought. The fact is, however, that few, if any, can afford themselves even the common comforts of life. Thus far generally.\nMore particularly as to myself, Sir, I must beg leave to observe that in my humble opinion the duties, the confidence reposed\u2014the very nature of the Office of State stamp it of more importance than any other. If this be fact, why place the Chief Clerk employed, and in custody of every thing belonging to it, upon no better footing, as to salary, than those in the other offices of Government, in every other respect regarded as inferior? I should suppose that the circumstance alone of its being the most confidential office, ought to have some weight in determining the compensation. It is granted that few who are unacquainted with the duties of the several Departments will readily be satisfied that there is any real distinction; but they might easily be convinced, if they would undertake to make the inquiry.\nThe law passed at the last session, granting the Chief Clerks a temporary relief, ended with the Year 1795\u2014and they are again reduced to the permanent allowance of 800 Dollars, unless Congress will take the matter up anew. If they should not, it appears morally impossible for any Man to continue under the present exorbitant rates of living. With sentiments of the most perfect respect and esteem, I am, sir, Your most obt. servant\nGeo: Taylor Jr:\nPS. I take the liberty of inclosing copy of a certificate left me by my worthy friend Mr. Jefferson.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0125", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 31 January 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhilada. Jany. 31. 1796\nI inclose a letter from Jno. Bringhurst explaining a claim on you for about \u00a317. Pa. Currency, and requesting me to advance it. Taking him to be an honest man in distress, I shall probably venture a compliance with his solicitation, if it should be found that he cannot wait for your orders. In the mean time you can inform me whether the acct. be accurately stated: but if so, you need not forward the money, as it will be equally convenient to me to receive it in Virginia.\nThe Original of the British Ratification of the Treaty is still to arrive, & we are not likely to be furnished with a copy. Some members are anxious to apply to the President for the communication, & some would take up the subject on its mere notoriety. It is pretty evident however, that either attempt would be defeated by the advantage which the rub agst. the P. in one case, & the informality in the other, would give to the friends of the Treaty, in the discussion, & the pretext they would afford to the insincere or cautious opponents. The Treaty with Spain also is not yet \u27e8arri\u27e9ved, tho\u2019 there is reason for hourly expecting it. The same as to the \u27e8treaty\u27e9 with Algiers. You will see in the gazette inclosed a sketch of the debate on the proposition to employ Robinson of Petersburg as Stenographer to the House of Reps. The more the subject is opened, the more the objections are found to be insuperable. There is little doubt that the project will be rejected.\nA committee of ways & means are employed in investigating our revenues & our wants. It is found that there are between six & seven millions of anticipations due to the Banks, that our ordinary income is barely at par with our ordinary expenditures, & that new taxes must be ready to meet near 1\u00bd millions which will accrue in 1801. The proposition of the Treasury is to fund the anticipations & the foreign debt due in instalments, with an absolute irredeemability for such a period say 20 or 30 years, as will sell the new Stock at par. This is treading as fast on the heels of G. B. as circumstances will permit. It is probable the House will not consent to such an abandonment of the sound principles it has been latterly favoring; but loans at least in some form or other will be indispensable, in order to face the demands on the public until new taxes can be brought into action. With respect to \u27e8this, t\u27e9he Come. are now in deliberation & embarrassments. The excise system is unproductive, & new excises that will be po\u27e8pul\u27e9ar even in the Eastern States do not occur. On the other hand direct taxes, have been so blackened in order to recom\u27e8mend\u27e9 the fiscal policy of indirect ones, & to inspire hatred, & jealousies in the Eastern \u27e8against the southern states, and particularly\u27e9 Virginia, that it is doubtful whether the measure, now that it is become necessa\u27e8ry, will be born\u27e9e. Gallatin \u27e8is\u27e9 a real Treasure in this department of Legislation. He is sound in his principles, accurate in his calculations & indefatigable in his researches. Who could have supposed that Hamilton could have gone off in the triumph he assumed, with such a condition of the finances behind him?\nYou will see that Govr. Adams has lanced a pretty bold attack agst. the Treaty. The Legislature have not yet answered his speech. Their unhandsome treatment of the Virga. Amendments portends a countertone. Nothing could more than this treatment demonstrate the success with which party calumny has sown animosity & malignity in the State of Massts. agst. a State which feels no return of illwill, & towards which there were formerly in that quarter the strongest habits of cordiality & cooperation. Yrs. always & affey.\nJs. M. Jr\nThe navigation project of Genl. Smith waits for a favorable moment of discussion. The Treaty party will make war on it, as secretly levelled at that transaction, & thus endeavor to escape the consequences of sacrificing the obvious interests of the Eastern States.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0127", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Joseph Jones, 4 February 1796\nFrom: Jones, Joseph\nTo: Madison, James\nDr. Sr.\nFredg. 4th. Febry. 1796.\nI am just returned from Loudoun a journey the most disagreeable from weather and roads I ever encountered. Before my departure I wrote you a letter inclosing one for Monroe wherein I informed you of my fruitless search in Albemarle to discover any thing to answer the expectation and inquiry of Mr. Knox. I also mentioned my having recd. a letter from Monroe informing me he expected pickering wod. pay you for me some money and also a sum on acct. of Paine\u2014by a letter since recd. from him of the 4th. Novr. last he mentions the same thing stating pickerings to be 450 or thereabouts dols. and that Mr. Beache was to pay on acct. Paine 250 more\u2014you will be pleased to inquire and inform me respecting these matters. I moreover told you no clover seed could be got here and am not yet informed whr. any can be got in Richmond. If to be had the price will be very high owing to the failure of the seed crops last year. Monroe in his last letter says not a word of the misfortunes of the French on the other side [of] the Rhine which have been detailed in the papers and are I am in hopes less disast\u27e8rous\u27e9 than represented by German and British accots. He speaks only of the new government being at work. He also mentions what I see in some of the papers that a Treaty was in [O]ctr. being concluded with Spain wch. wod. open to us the Mississippi. Can you get any information of the patent Fowler was to forward of the Rock Castle Land. We are looking towards your house for something about the Treaty but fear you are not strong enough to make head agt. it. If the disagreeable pill must be swallowed we must digest and work it off as well as we can and with as little injury to the system as may be but hope something may be done to prevent the administering such unwholesome doses in future. Randolph pamphlets except a few scattering ones have not yet reached us. I have had an opportunity of a cursory perusal of one and think it cannot fail to make an impression. I shod. like to see peter porcupine if not too large for a letter. I shall not leave home again this month and hope to hear from you as usual. Yr. friend & Servt.\nJos: Jones", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0128", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Richard Peters, 4 February 1796\nFrom: Peters, Richard\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nI enclose you the Memorial I troubled you about which I should sooner have sent but that I thought it best to accompany it with a Translation. It is addressed under a mistaken Idea of the old Arrangement of Congress. But this will not affect the Substance. This young Man never had a Commission tho\u2019 he did the Duty he mentions. He came to this Country & left it with the Marquis. The Facts he states can be ascertained by those he refers to. If you think it necessary Mr Ternant will call on you.\nMonsr Poiret is a Citizen of the present Republic of France. He lives at Paris & maintains a Wife & 2 or 3 Children by the Labour of his Hands. I believe he is a Writer in some Office but whether public or private I know not. At any Rate he is poor & deserving a better Situation. What can be done for him you can best judge. I am with true Esteem your obed Servt.\nR Peters", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0129", "content": "Title: To James Madison from John Browne Cutting, [ca. 5 February] 1796\nFrom: Cutting, John Browne\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir,\nFriday Evening [ca. 5 February 1796]\nI have been confined by an inflammation in my throat\u2014or I shou\u2019d have called on you at an early hour this day.\nPerhaps your leisure moments on the morrow (if the committee-business does not monopolize you)\u2014will permit you to give a simple negative or affirmative to my written questions\u2014on paper?\nI only ask this: in case my indisposition continues\u2014so that I shoud not be well enough to visit You; and merely for the satisfaction of my own mind\u2014which has perhaps been agitated by too much anxiety in the matter. Very respectfully Your affectionate And Mo. Obedt Sert.\nJohn Browne Cutting", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0130", "content": "Title: Postal Road Survey, [5 February] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n[5 February 1796]\nMr. Madison after some general remarks on the subject, offered a resolution, the purport of which is to authorise the President of the United States to cause a survey of the main post road from Maine to Georgia; the expence to be defrayed out of the surplus revenue of the post office.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0131", "content": "Title: To James Madison from John Browne Cutting, 6 February 1796\nFrom: Cutting, John Browne\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir,\nSaturday 6th Feby. 1796\nAccept my best acknowledgments both for your goodness in the investigation of my case; and the candid & obliging opinion you communicate concerning it.\nIn proportion to the solicitude resulting from the delicacy of the nature of my claim\u2014the hard struggle I have made for evidence to substantiate it\u2014and the nicety of Feelings that have been deeply wounded\u2014in the affair\u2014is the satisfaction I feel in your kindness\u2014and attestation. Very respectfully and affectionately Your Most Obedt. Sert.\nJohn Browne Cutting", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0132", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 7 February 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhilada. Feby. 7. 1796\nSeveral mails preceding that of yesterday brought nothing more Southern than Baltimore. This will account for my not receiving your favor of the 24th. Ult, till yesterday. I will make the enquiries & execute the commissions in it with pleasure, & without delay. I am afraid to make the same promise as to the weekly history of what passes in the Govt. behind the curtain; especially as the Cypher might be required for some parts of it. What I can I will do on the subject. I have already made a partial collection of the Tracts you wish. I know not what is meant by the correspondence of Jay & Jefferson; probably it is the correspondence not between them, but between each & others.\nI thank you for the Copy of your statement & letter to Mr. Wythe. I value it not only as a gratification to myself; but as another security for the preservation of the document.\nDorhman maintains a silence, that justifies strong suspicions of aversion or inability to pay his debts. I feel no longer any other restraints from resorting to his deed of trust, but that which Mazzei\u2019s interest dictates. As yet the land would sell for considerably less than the sum due. The general rise of price which is going on will probably soon remove this difficulty, especially if the Treaty with Spain, shd. have done what is hoped, as to the navigation of the Mississippi.\nYou will see that the aspect of English affairs grows more & more lowering. The alarm of the Sedition Bills, the bounty on foreign Wheat & flour, the detention of the armament fitted up, for the forlorn experiment in the West Indies, are more portentous than any thing previous to these signs of a ripening crisis. The accounts from France are not of very late date, but continue to be auspicious. The Treaties with Algiers & Spain, loiter as that with England did. It is to be hoped this is the only instance in which the parallel holds.\nAn idea begins to shew itself that an unrestrained exportation of the Bread-articles, threatens a scarcity in our own Country. The large towns will of course be the first seat of such an apprehensions [sic]. It is certain that the Crops of Grain in North Carolina failed to such a degree as to start the price of Corn at a dollr. a bushel where it used to sell at \u2153 of a dollar. In Virginia, if the present price be the measure of the quantity, there will be little corn to spare, & probably not a great deal more of wheat. In this State it is turning out more & more in evidence that the crop of Wheat has been very scanty. The Eastern States always require large importations from the others. In N. J. & N. Y. alone, the crops of Wheat appear to have been good; & that is probably exaggeration on the favorable side. Flour at present in this place is rising under the information of the English bounty. All in the Market is said to be bought up, probably by English Agents. It sold a day or two ago, or rather there was offered for it, 14 dollrs. a barrel, & the best informed, speak with confidence of successive rises. In this attitude of things What a noble stroke would be an embargo? It would probably do as much good as harm at home; & would force peace, on the rest of the World, & perhaps liberty along with it. But you know the spell within the Govt., as well as the obstacles to such a measure in the clamors that would be raised among the Merchts. the Millers, & farmers, to say nothing of the Tories &c. who would make more noise than any of them.\nI intreat you not to procrastinate, much less abandon your historical task. You owe it to yourself, to truth, to the World. Adieu always yours most affey\nThere is some reason to think that Jno. Rutledge is not right in his mind. Cushing has been put at the head of the Bench, but it is said will decline the pre-eminence. Chase in the place of Blair!!!!\u2014a vacancy remains to be filled. McHenry Secretary at War. Through what official interstice can a ray of republican truths now penetrate to the P.\nYou will see by the inclosed letter \u27e8from j.\u27e9 B. that I have ad\u27e8vanced\u27e9 him 25 drs. I have already told you that repayment in Virga will \u27e8serve\u27e9 for me as well as \u27e8here.\u27e9", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0133", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Edmund Pendleton, 7 February 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Pendleton, Edmund\nMy dear Sir\nPhilada. Feby. 7. 1796\nYour favor of Jany. 6., owing to failures of the Mail South of Baltimore, did not come to hand within the usual time; and subsequent delays in the communication consultation & decision of Mr. Giles & myself, on the manner of publishing & applying your observations on the carriage tax, have brought down the return of my thanks for your favor to the present date. I read with real pleasure the paper you put into the hands of Mr. Giles; which is unquestionably a most simple & lucid view of the subject, and well deserving the attention of the Court which is to determine on it. The paper will be printed in the newspapers in time for the Judges to have the benefit of it. I did not find that it needed any of those corrections which you so liberally committed to my hand. It has been thought unnecessary to prefix your name; but Mr. Giles will let an intimation appear along with the remarks, that they proceed from a quarter that claims attention to them. It is said that both the Judges & the Attorney Genl. have expressed a wish that the question should be argued on both sides at the Bar; but as the ordinary motive does not operate on the side of the Defendant, it is not certain that any professional appearance for him will take place. It is perhaps better that the cause should rest on the printed arguments & on the discernment of the Bench, than that it should be espoused by junior & unskilful volunteers. There never was a question on which my mind was more satisfied; and yet I have very little expectation that it will be viewed by the Court in the same light it is by me.\n   The alterations in the carriage tax recommended by the President had no reference to the constitutional question.\nThe British Treaty in its final form as ratified by both parties has not yet been laid before the House of Reps. The delay is accounted for by the copy only & not the original of the British Ratification havg. been recd. I am sorry that so much weight is allowed to forms. My advice to the P. wd. have been, to have opened the actual State of the Business in his Speech, & to have communicated all the documents relating to it, to the Legislature. A different opinion has prevailed; & nothing is more uncertain than the moment when the Treaty will be laid on the Table for our consideration. In the meantime there is no apparent disposition in a majority either to apply for it, or to take it up informally, on its general notoriety; and the name of the P. is every where used with the most wonderful success, by the Treaty partisans, in subduing the popular objections to that instrument. No where has this policy been exerted with so much effect, as in N. England, as is shewn by the proceedings of the Legislatures of N. Hamshire & Massachussetts. The manner in which the latter has treated the proposed amendments of Virginia is as unworthy on the part of Mass: as it is unmerited on that of her sister. It speaks an influence which can not be friendly to either.\nThe Treaty with Spain is not yet arrived, nor is that with Algiers. The contents of both are unknown. There can be little doubt that the former contains some beneficial arrangements on the subject of the Mississippi. The countenance of English affairs grows more & more lowering. Among other signs truly alarming to that country, the Parliamt. are allowing a bounty amounting to 2/6 Sterl: a bushel on the importation of foreign Wheat. The accounts from France subsequent to the establishmt. of her Constitution are favorable to internal order & tranquility; & of course to her prospects on every side.\nSince the knowledge of the English Bounty, Flour has taken a fresh start. It is now at abt. 14 dollrs. & a further rise is expected. For other domestic intelligence, I must refer to the Newspapers which I presume you occasionally see, & one of which is inclosed. I beg you to offer my best respects to Col. Taylor, & to accept the same yourself. With the truest esteem & attachment I am Dr. Sr. Yr. Obedt friend & set\nJs. Madison Jr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0134", "content": "Title: Compensation for Members of Congress, [8 February] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n[8 February 1796]\n   On 16 December 1795 the House appointed a committee to report bills for compensating members of Congress. The chairman, Goodhue (Massachusetts), reported legislation on 28 January 1796 which proposed that members of both Houses receive a salary of $1,000 annually instead of $6 per day. In the debate in the Committee of the Whole on 8 February, Giles (Virginia) moved to strike the word \u201cannually\u201d from the bill (JHRJournal of the House of Representatives of\n          the United States (9 vols.; Washington, 1826)., 2:380; Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\n          the United States \u2026 (42 vols.; Washington, 1834\u201356)., 4th Cong., 1st sess., 270, 304\u20137).\nMr. Madison was against the principle of the section, and therefore in favour of the amendment. He conceived this the first instance of an attempt to compensate a legislature by an annual salary. Such a principle seems to give a new aspect to the legislative part of the constitution. The legislature meet at certain periods, and the length of time they employ in the public service cannot be calculated beforehand.\nHe feared this new principle if established would embarrass and shorten deliberations; If for example, the members were to receive 1000 dollars for their annual services, as far as interest prevailed this must certainly act as a premium to shorten the session. The compensation of the legislature should be so low as to offer no inducement to spin out the session and so fixed as to be no temptation to cut it short. The more gentlemen revolved the subject in their minds the more he believed, they would be convinced of the mischievous tendency of the new principle attempted to be introduced.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0135", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Jared Ingersoll, [9 February] 1796\nFrom: Ingersoll, Jared\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\t\n[9 February] 1796\nAs you have considered the question of Constitutionality arising on the Carriage Tax, & I am applied to, on a sudden, to engage in the Argument, if without inconvenience, you could bestow 10 or 15 minutes to hint your Ideas upon the Subject, they will be very acceptable to me.\nExcuse the liberty I take I am With much respect Your obed hum servt\nJared Ingersoll", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0136", "content": "Title: Domestic Debt of the United States, [9 February] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n[9 February 1796]\n   On 3 February, Smith (South Carolina) reported a bill to extend until the end of the year the time for receiving on loan the domestic debt of the United States. In debate on 9 February, Swift (Connecticut) moved a clause that \u201cit shall be lawful for the offices of the Treasury to receive on Loan Continental bills.\u201d Several speakers opposed the clause as violating statutes of limitations and for failing to provide against the receipt of counterfeit bills, while Gallatin and Swanwick (Pennsylvania) supported it (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\n          the United States \u2026 (42 vols.; Washington, 1834\u201356)., 4th Cong., 1st sess., 288, 307\u201310).\nMr. Madison was of opinion that these bills were clearly precluded by the acts of limitation\u2014That the construction of the Treasury Department was consonant to the intention and end of the law\u2014Adverting to what fell from Mr. Gallatin, tho\u2019 he approved of his sentiments, yet the application of them to this case would counteract the general design and scope of his remarks\u2014For on his principle the provision ought to be extended to various other parts of the funding system, which had no better basis for their support than the arbitrary sanction of the legislature. Mr. Madison supposed that the present question had no immediate connexion with the bill under discussion.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0138", "content": "Title: To James Madison from James Wattson, 10 February 1796\nFrom: Wattson, James\nTo: Madison, James\nRespectd. Sir.\nLiverpooll 10 feby 1796\nThe high Esteem & regard I have for you Makes Me trouble you, with this peice of Information which perhaps you already have Viz: That all Linnen Cloth Cotton Cloth, Tykes, Checks\u2014&c. have a Bounty granted by Government of Britain of one penny half penny \u214c yard of 36 Inches\u2014they draw back also the Excise for Instance printed Cottons draw back the Excise Duty of 3d \u214c. yd. & also a Bountie of one penny half penny \u214c. yd. for the cloth so that they draw back on being Exported four pence half penny \u214c yard one penny half penny of which is a Bounty\u2014this Bounty of one penny half penny \u214c. yd. is Confined to Goods below One shillg & Six pence \u214c yard. Saill Cloth has a Bounty of Two pence \u214c yard & Gun powder of four shillg & Six pence \u214c 100 \u2114. weight. Even our Grain in Britain has a Bounty. As no other Nation grants Bountys on their Manufacters exported, this is the Reason of Great Britain enjoying Such a trade & of British Goods Cuting out the Goods of all other Nations at your Market.\nThe above is I think a full answer to Your Letter\u2014and I hope will Convince of what I formerly asserted that Britains would keep the principall Imports of Goods into America in their own hands. I am Respected Sir yr. he. Set.\nJas. Wattson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0139", "content": "Title: Postal Road Survey, [11 February] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n[11 February 1796]\nMr. Madison moved that the resolution laid upon the table, some days ago, be taken up, relative to the survey of the post roads between the province of Maine and Georgia, which being read, he observed that two good effects would arise from carrying this resolution into effect; the shortest rout from one place to another would be determined upon, and persons, having a certainty of the stability of the roads, would not hesitate to make improvements upon them.\n   Claypoole\u2019s Am. Daily Advertiser, 12 Feb. 1796 (reprinted in Philadelphia Gazette, 13 Feb. 1796; also reported in Gazette of the U.S., 13 Feb. 1796).\n[11 February 1796]\n   Williams (New York) opposed the motion and asked the House to wait for the report of the committee on the post office.\nMr. Madison explained the nature and object of the resolution. He said it was the commencement of an extensive work. He wished not to extend it at present. The expence of the Survey would be great. The Post Office, he believed would have no objection to the intended regulation.\n   Claypoole\u2019s Am. Daily Advertiser, 12 Feb. 1796 (reprinted in Philadelphia Gazette, 13 Feb. 1796; also reported in Gazette of the U.S., 13 Feb. 1796). The House agreed to the resolution and appointed JM, Thacher (Massachusetts), Baldwin (Georgia), Henderson (New Jersey), and Sherburne (New Hampshire) to a committee (JHRJournal of the House of Representatives of\n          the United States (9 vols.; Washington, 1826)., 2:440).", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0141", "content": "Title: From James Madison to George Washington, 12 February 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Washington, George\nPhilada. Feby. 12. 1796\nMr. Madison presents his respectful compliments to the President of the United States, with a letter from Arthur Cambell Esqr. which an accompanying letter to Mr. M. requests him to deliver to the President. Mr. Cambell makes a further request of Mr. M. to make any explanations that may be necessary. Mr. M. is not sensible that he possesses any local or other knowledge that can elucidate the proposition, as it is intimated in the letter to him. But if the President should think it proper for Mr. M. to wait on him, he will with pleasure do so, at any time the President may please to signify.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0142", "content": "Title: To James Madison from George Washington, 13 February 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nI thank you for forwarding Mr. Campbells letter; & whenever I shall have the pleasure of seeing you (for I would not put you to the trouble of calling for that purpose only) I will converse with you upon the subject of it.\nI confess, in the meantime, that I do not see upon what ground the application is made, to me. I can hardly suppose, Congress will disband the Troops now in Service, and supply their place with Militia; consequently, if the Western Posts are (when surrendered) to be garrisoned by the regular Troops, there could be no propriety in placing him over the heads of the Officers who belong to them. If on the other hand, this Service is to be performed by Militia\u2014It does not lye with me to call, specially, on him or any other Militia Officer to command them. *In either case, I do not see the foundation of the application. Yours Affecty.\nGo. Washington", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0143", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Jared Ingersoll, 14 February 1796\nFrom: Ingersoll, Jared\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nI am particularly obliged by your sending me the Book on Taxation.\nI will endeavour to possess myself of the Report to which you allude &\nshall be particularly happy to have a conference with you to-morrow. I am With great regard yr\nJ. Ingersoll", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0144", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Joseph Jones, 17 February 1796\nFrom: Jones, Joseph\nTo: Madison, James\nDr. Sr.\nFredg. 17. Febry. 1796.\nI was not only astonished but concerned to see in what manner the resolutions of the Virginia Ass: was treated by the Mass. Legislature as well as some others but by others with more decency\u2014these are strange and unaccountable things to me but I suppose are well warranted in the opinion of others better informed. I had supposed there was nothing unconstitutional in a state legislature speaking its opinion of any public measure through the proper Organ to the general government or that there was any improper interference in proposing to the other States objects of amendment for their consideration. Time no doubt has produced some change respecting the operation of the Treaty in the minds of Some But cannot alter the instrument itself which must sink or swim by its own weight. I fear your attempts to do what is right will be frustrated as appearances are So unfavourable and the resentmt. agt. Virginia so manifest. Even the answer of the P. on presenting the flag has had its weight with many who doubted his attachment to France\u2014the warmth of sentiment expressed on that occasion was well calculated to make impressions with those who do not examine conduct and facts we shod. examine what is done not what is said. Genets offence with some men was impud\u27e8ence.\u27e9 The best Man that ever lived possessing the influence of the P. is a dangerous Man\u2014the more so if guided in any of his measures by others who may not be so virtuous. God grant we may never have cause to say \u201ccurse on his virtues they have undone his Country.\u201d Let me hear how Marshall & Campbell are reputed as able Counsel contrasted wth. the Pensa. champions. May you live and prosper in public & private. Yr. friend\nJos: Jones", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0145", "content": "Title: From James Madison to James Blair, ca. 20 February 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Blair, James\nLetter not found. Ca. 20 February 1796. Mentioned in JM to James Madison, Sr., 21 Feb. 1796. Orders clover seed for Montpelier.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0146", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 21 February 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhilada. Feby. 21. 1796\nSince my last I have made enquiry as to Lownes. In general he is well spoken of, in every respect. Old Mr. Howell however, told me he was not a punctual man & was slow in his payments. I then mentioned my reasons for asking him. He proceeded to say that his son dealt in the same article with Lownes, and that if you chose to take your Iron rod here, he would be responsible for the most exact compliance of his son. I next brought Sharpless into view. He spoke of him as a man fully to be relied on, & as a man with whom his son had had some dealings. He said there was but one objection to taking your supplies at short hand from Sharpless, which was that there was very little direct intercourse from Wilmington to Southern ports; that almost every thing exported thence, came first to Philada. I asked whether vessels could not stop there & take in articles; not he said, unless the freight of them was an object. As the order of my enquiries drew out the old gentleman\u2019s opinion of Lownes, before he could well feel the interest of his son in the case, his testimony is entitled to respect. I have written to Jno. Bringhurst who resides at Wilmington to get & send me a full acct. of Sharpless & of the terms on which he wd. supply you; but have not yet recd. an answer.\nI find as I conjectured that the provision made for the daughters of Degrasse was not in the way of loan but of gift. It would be difficult perhaps to justify the act in either way, by the text of the Constitution. The precedent nevertheless is in favor of Made. de Chattelleux\u2019s son. Whether his claim will be viewed with the same indulgence on the score of his father\u2019s merits is more than I can venture to decide. The services of De Grasse were critical. Chatelleux you recollect was not a favorite here, tho\u2019 the cause may have been erroneous. Congress also were afraid of the Precedent at the time, & endeavored to interweave ingredients of peculiarity. I am really apprehensive that a compliance with the wishes of Made. de Chat: would entail on Us a provision for the families of the whole French army that served in this Country. Congs are occupied with a Bill for selling the Western lands. Opinions are various & the result doubtful. The British Treaty not yet before us; nor The Spanish before the Senate, or even arrived as far as I know. The Algerine is come to hand & under the deliberation of the Senate. The history of it contains some curious features, which it is not possible for me to explain in time. In general it costs an immense sum, & the annual tribute is to be pd. in naval Stores, infinitely underated in the Tariff. The friendly interference of France, tho\u2019 applied for & in train, was precluded by the Agent\u2019s precipitancy in closing the Treaty; for the hardness of which the apology is that it was the best that could be got. The letter from Paris in the inclosed paper, is Monroe\u2019s, & the latest in date that has been recd from him. The fedl. Court has not yet given judgment in the case of payts. into the Virga. Treasury. Marshall & Cambell were the Counsel on one side, & Lewis & Tilghman on the other. Marshal\u2019s argument is highly spoken of. Campbell & Ingersol will appear vs. the Carrage tax. Hamilton is here & to join Lee on the other side.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0147", "content": "Title: From James Madison to James Madison, Sr., 21 February 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Madison, James, Sr.\nHond. Sir\nPhilada. Feby. 21. 1796\nI have been much disappointed in not hearing from you on the subject of the Chariot; as well as on the enquiries I made respecting my crops of Corn, & the quantity of Wheat sent from my farms to Mr. Dunbar. I have just heard that Mr. Anderson expected to receive a quantity of Clover seed, & have written to Mr. Blair to procure me from 1 to 3 bushls. accordg. to the price, & forward it to Orange. Be so good as to co-operate with him, in getting it up if oppys. shd. offer. If you hear from Mr. Blair that it is obtained, it will be better for Collins to ride down for it, than not sow it in time. The paper of instructions will point out the fields where it is to be sown. If the 3 bushls shd be got or more than will do for me, you can make use of the su\u27e8r\u27e9plus yourself.\nWe have little news from abroad; farther than that the Constitution &c is promising in France, & the aspect of things th[r]eatening in Engld. & provisions extremely dear in both. Here Flour is abt. 14 dolls. & more likely to rise than fall.\nThe Treaty still as it was & That with Spain not arrived. That with Algiers is before the Senate. The particular terms are not yet made public. A land bill is under discussion, but opinions are so various, that the result is uncertain. Let Col. F. Taylor know that I have red. his letter & have presented his memorial which is referred to the Come. of Claims. We are all well, & much love is offered to my mother & yourself. We have the pleasure to hear from Fanny that sister Hite is recovered. Yr. affe. son\nJs. Madison Jr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0148", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Thomas Jefferson, 21 February 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Madison, James\nTh: J. to J. M.\nMonticello. Feb. 21. 96.\nI propose to write you a longer letter in answer to your two favors of Jan. 31. & Feb. 7. which came by our last post. But as I may possibly not have time before A\u2019s departure, I inclose you a letter to J. Bringhurst, as the perusal of it will answer that article of your letters. When read, be pleased to seal & send it. I thank you as much for your advance to him as if I had really owed it, and if he does not repay it immediately, let me know it & I will do it. I have always considered paiments for my honor, as debts of honor, whether they were right or wrong. Adieu affectionately", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0150", "content": "Title: To James Madison from William Russell, 22 February 1796\nFrom: Russell, William\nTo: Madison, James\nSir,\nOrange, February 22d. 1796\nInclosed you have several papers relative to my claim against the United States, and am sorry to trouble you so much about the business. I should esteem it a singular favor if you would still try to settle it for me, as I am in want of what is due me at present, and desire no more than is just and right. After informing Mr. Robertson of my business, he referred to his Papers and finding that I was intitled to Wages from the 24th. Septr. 1781 \u2019till the 18th. Jany 1782 he gave me the inclosed Certificate, which I hope will be satisfactory, together with the other papers. He inform\u2019d me that he had lodged an Account in a Mr. Burwell\u2019s Office of New York of every person who he employed in the Commy. Department, of the time they were employed and the time they quited the service. In answer to a remark of a part of the Original Certificate being cut off, I have only to say that I don\u2019t know how it could happen, however am in hopes that no part of the Writeing is cut off. When I engaged with Mr. Robertson I was appointed to Issue provisions to a body of troops at Surry old Court-house, but they march\u2019d from there before York-town, afterwards I was employed in Conducting public Stores to different places for the use of the Public &C and had a harder tour than if I had been stationed altogether at one particular post. Should it so happen that the return of my Claim can not be found, I think it would be a cruel hardship for me to loose my Wages on account of it. There is no general rule without an exception, and justice and equity ought to be an inducement in particular Cases, for a person to deviate from the strict tenor of the Law, however, hope that there will be no difficulty in settling the business. Any trouble and expence you may be at I am willing to make ample Compensation for. Should it so happen that the Commissioner will not settle my Claim, I wou\u2019d thank you not to send the inclosed papers by the post, least they should fail comeing to hand, but Keep them for me \u2019till you return to Orange. Wishing you and Family all possible health and happiness, I remain Sir, yr mo: obt. Servt.\nWm Russell.\nP. S. Mr. Robertson says he thinks the Wages that I am entitled to is 40 Dollars pr. Month, however the Commissioner Knows what the law allows.\nW. R.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0151", "content": "Title: Loan for the City of Washington, [22 February] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n[22 February 1796]\n   In a message of 8 January 1796, Washington urged Congress to provide for the completion of public buildings in the federal city. On 25 January a House committee reported resolutions recommending that the president be authorized to borrow money for that purpose. These resolutions were debated in a Committee of the Whole on 3 and 4 February and reported as a bill on 15 February. This bill was debated again in a Committee of the Whole on 22 February, when Hillhouse (Connecticut) moved that it be recommitted for amendments (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\nMr. Madison did not see any necessity for the committee to rise. He thought the bill conformable to the resolution of the house, and sufficiently simple in itself.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0152", "content": "Title: Assignment of a Share in the Library Company of Philadelphia, 22 February 1796 (Abstract)\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n22 February 1796. JM, having by marriage to the widow of John Todd inherited a share in the Library Company, for valuable consideration assigns that share to George McCall of Philadelphia.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0153", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Jared Ingersoll, [24 February] 1796\nFrom: Ingersoll, Jared\nTo: Madison, James\n[24 February 1796]\n\u2026 Mr. Hamilton has today stated his points. Permit me to mention them hastily, & if you have time \u2026 to remark on them I shall be glad.\u2026", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0155", "content": "Title: From James Madison to James Monroe, 26 February 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Monroe, James\nDear Sir\nPhilada. Feby. 26 1796.\nI have written you several particular letters latterly, & now add this for a conveyance of which I am just apprised.\nThe British Treaty, is still in the situation explained in my last. Several circumstances have indicated an intention in the Executive to lay it before the House of Reps. but it has not yet taken place. There is reason to believe that some egregious misconception of ideas has disappointed the executive of the original ratification. Still however the executive is not to be excused for sacrificing substance to form, by withholding the subject and as this idea must gain strength with the delay a call for the treaty will become daily more and more practicable and probable.\nThe Algerine & Spanish Treaties are both before the Senate. Mr. Tazewell is to make them the subject of a letter to you by the present opportunity; he being fully acquainted with them. The former is stampt with folly & the most culpable irregularities. The latter gives general joy. I have not yet ascertained whether it clashes with the British treaty as to the Missisipi or is in any point chargeable with the unconstitutionality alledged against the British.\nYou already know that Pickering is Secretary of State, & that Charles Lee is Attorney General. The vacancy in the Secretaryship of war has been filled with Docr. McHenry. On the exclusion of Jno. Rutledge, Cushing was made Chief Justice, but has declined it & no successor is yet nominated. Chase is appointed to the vacancy produced by Mr. Blair\u2019s resignation. There is still a vacancy resulting from Jay\u2019s translation to the Govt. of N. York to be filled. On these several appointments, you will make your own comments. They are to a man of the treaty party.\nThe amendments proposed by Virginia, for requiring the consent of the H. of Reps. to Treaties, limiting the terms of Senators to three years &c. have excited the most active party venom against that state and the success of the hue & cry has been greater than could have been imagined. The legislatures of New Hampshire Massachusets Rhode Island New York Pensylvania Delaware have all rejected, and several of them insulted the example.\nIt is now pretty certain that the president will not serve beyond his present term. The British party had Jay first in view as is believed. It is now said Adams is the object. Their second man is not fixt on or discovered. It will probably be a man who will cause a diversion of southern votes. H. Lee has been conjectured but they will hardly think him the fittest for the purpose. The republicans knowing that Jefferson alone can be started with hope of success mean to push him. I fear much that he will mar the project & ensure the adverse election by a peremptory and public protest. The candidate for the V. P. is not yet designated.\nThe immediate subjects before the H. of Reps. are 1. a bill for guaranteeing a loan on a mortgage of the public lotts in the federal City, for compleating the preparations there in time, without selling the lotts below their value. The bill has been delayed by objections of various sorts urged from various motives. As the President has recommended the measure, it is probable, tho\u2019 not certain, that it will be allowed to pass. 2. A bill for selling the lands N. W of the Ohio. On this also opinions are multifarious & the issue not certain. 3. New taxes. Notwithstanding the parade with respect to our finances, there are 6,200,000 dollrs. of anticipations due to the bank now called for besides the foreign instalments, and abt. 1100,000 for the deferred debt which will accrue by the time plans laid now will become regularly & adequately productive. Wolcot in the spirit of his predecessor proposes to fund the anticipations &c. by selling new stock irredeemable for 25 years, that is, the redemption is not to commence till the end of 25 years. The new revenues contemplated are an increase of the duty on salt\u2014a stampt tax\u2014a tax on testamentary dispositions, an increase of the tax on Carriages\u2014&c. A tax on leather & hats were also brought forward in a Come. of ways & means, but will not be pressed. Wd. you have supposed that a land tax & House tax as indirect taxes, had also a patronage?\nThe constitutionality of the Carriage tax has been just argued here before the federal Court of Appeals; Chs. Lee & Hamilton on the side of the tax; Ingersoll, & Campbel of Richmond, agst. it. Lee did not distinguish himself, & took ground different from that of his coadjutor. H. exerted himself as usual. Ingersoll appeared to advantage, & Campbel I am told, acquitted himself ably & very eloquently. The Judges on the bench were Wilson, Patterson, Iredell & Chase. No decision has yet been given, but an affirmance of the law is generally anticipated. The payments into the Virga. Treasy. have also been argued at this term. Marshall & Campbel came hither for the purpose, in behalf of the debtors. They were combated by Lewis & Tilghman. Marshal is said to have figured very powerfully in his argument: & it is thought the event is at least doubtful.\nThe birthday of the president has been celebrated with greater splendor than ever. The crisis explains the policy. A circumstance has taken place however more indicative in its nature than any display within the fashionable circle. You will recollect the usage of adjourning for half an hour to compliment the president on the anniversary of his birth. Last year there were but thirteen dissentients. This year the motion to adjourn was negatived by fifty against thirty-eight.\nIt has been whispered that you are to be recalled and Bingham to replace you. I entirely disbelieve it but the whisper marks the wishes of those who propagate it.\nPickering will pay your draught on him. Bache has not yet recd. the 2d. part of the Rights of Man, which he says is the only fund on wch. Mr. Payne could draw. Mrs. M. offers her best regards along with mine to Mrs. Monroe. A letter from Mr. Jones accompanies this. We are 3 months without intelligence from France. Adieu. Yrs. sincerely\nJs. Madison Jr.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0160", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 29 February 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhilada. Feby. 29. 1796\nThe Treaty with Spain arrived on Tuesday last. It adjusts both the boundary and navigation in a very satisfactory manner. I have not yet been able to decide whether, on the latter point it clashes or not with the British Treaty; the article being differently represented by different members of the Senate. Nor am I able to say whether any of the articles come within the objections to the constitutionality of the British Treaty. In what relates to contraband & other points in the law of Nations, I understand it presents an honorable contrast to Jay\u2019s stipulations. The Algerine Treaty has some curious features. Among other\u2019s, the sum of one Million paid for the ransom & the peace, does not appear before the Senate, as any part of the Treaty; but has been paid as a verbal part of the Contract, under the authority of the law of appropriation: So that the most material part of the Treaty has been made by the President & the Legislature, without the Treaty-Agency of the Senate. The British Treaty as finally ratified has been republished in the newspapers from foreign copies, but is still not laid before Congress.\nThe President\u2019s birthday has been celebrated with unexampled splendor. The crisis explains the policy of this. It is remarkable however that the annual motion to adjourn for half an hour to pay the compliment of the day, was rejected this year by 50 vs. 38. altho\u2019 last year on the yeas & nays 13 only voted in the negative.\nNothing from abroad. Bringhurst is making enquiry as to Sharpless. Mr. Rittenhouse the same as to the Kitchen Stoves. Adieu", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0161", "content": "Title: Impressed American Seamen, [29 February] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n[29 February 1796]\n   Impressment of American seamen by the Royal Navy was a constant irritant in Anglo-American relations, especially after the outbreak of war between Great Britain and France in 1793. American consuls in the ports of Great Britain could offer some assistance to impressed Americans under a statute of 14 April 1792, but the United States had no consular offices in the West Indies, from where American ship captains and newspapers frequently reported cases of impressment. Diplomatic negotiations between Great Britain and the United States after 1791 failed to adjust the issue, nor did the Jay treaty of 1794 contain any provision on the matter, an omission that only added to the defects of that agreement in the eyes of most Republicans, JM included.\n   Accordingly, Livingston (New York) raised the issue in the House on 18 February 1796 and the next day obtained the appointment of a committee of five members to consider appropriate legislation. Reporting back to the House on 25 February, the committee submitted two resolutions: that the president of the United States be authorized to appoint two or more agents in British and West Indian ports to inquire into the situation of impressed Americans and endeavor to obtain their release; and that proper means be provided whereby American citizens could register authenticated evidence of their birth or naturalization to protect them from impressment. The House began discussion in a Committee of the Whole on 29 February, with opponents of the resolutions arguing there was insufficient evidence of impressments to justify legislation. Bourne (Rhode Island) moved to amend the resolutions by confining the appointment of agents to the West Indies, but Smith (Maryland) pointed out that American consuls in Great Britain were too few to respond to the difficulties of impressed seamen (JHRJournal of the House of Representatives of\n          the United States (9 vols.; Washington, 1826)., 2:448, 450, 453\u201354; Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\n          the United States \u2026 (42 vols.; Washington, 1834\u201356)., 4th Cong., 1st sess., 344, 350, 372, 381\u201393; ASPAmerican State Papers: Documents,\n          Legislative and Executive, of the Congress of the United States \u2026 (38 vols.;\n        Washington, 1832\u201361)., Foreign Relations, 1:532; see also James Fulton Zimmerman, Impressment of American Seamen [New York, 1925], pp. 11\u201361).\nMr. Madison observed that the gentleman from Rhode-Island who made the motion now in question, thought it unnecessary to send agents to Great Britain, because America had consuls there. The member lately up from Maryland had anticipated what he intended to have remarked on that subject. He did not think the consuls could do all that agents might. The consuls are but two in number in the kingdom, who receive no recompence, except an increase of business from their public character. Under these circumstances, if they do their ordinary functions, it is as much as can be expected, the business now wanted to be done, is extraordinary. Besides, consuls are unequal to the task. Men are seized, put on board vessels allotted for the purpose, until ships of war be ready to receive them. It is a heavy business, therefore, for a person to follow up the enquiry and go in pursuit of persons thus seized. If an agent or agents should be sent to Great Britain, no other business will require his or their attendance. After the present motion is decided, he should wish to have the words struck out fixing the place of residence for agents, and leave it in the power of the President to appoint that particular.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0163", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Hubbard Taylor, 1 March 1796\nFrom: Taylor, Hubbard\nTo: Madison, James\nDr. Sir\n1st. March 1796\nI have omitted in my letter of this date to comply with the requ[e]st of our relation Jonathan Taylor Jur. He supposes there will be agents or superentendants appointed to carry on a trade with the Indian tribes, and he wishes to get into that department\u2014and wishes your aid in the matter. The Carrecter of Mr. Taylor as an Officer, & paymaster in the Army has been (from every information I have got,) unexceptionable, and generally satisfactory, to the Commander who has been particularly fond of him; and agreable to all his brother officers. I refer you to his letter to me which I herein inclose for further information.\nShould he succeed I am fully persuaded he will discharge the trust with credit both to him self and the Office. I am Dr Sir Sincerely yours\nH. Taylor\nP. Mr. Taylor wishes, a referance to Genl. Wayne, & his Accts in the War Office for information.\nH Taylor", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0164", "content": "Title: Impressed American Seamen, [1 March] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n   In the debate continuing in the Committee of the Whole since 29 February, Bourne (Rhode Island) modified his amendment to leave greater power with the president on the appointment of agents (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\n          the United States \u2026 (42 vols.; Washington, 1834\u201356)., 4th Cong., 1st sess., 395).\nMr. Madison said if the motion under discussion was meant to supercede the appointing of agents, he should object to it. Perhaps, he said, a question might arise whether an agent of this kind might be an officer of the United States. But, however this might be, the Constitution said that no office could be created and filled by the same power; this being the case that house ought to establish the office, and leave the President to fill it. Besides if it be the intention of the house to furnish relief to the objects contemplated, they should designate the mode. And no doubt could be entertained but that agents specially appointed would be preferable to Consuls. But, if the present motion was agreed to, it would be dismissing the plan of appointing agents, and leave it to the President to appoint them or not. Hoped therefore the original resolution, and not the amendment would be agreed to.\n   Claypoole\u2019s Am. Daily Advertiser, 2 Mar. 1796 (reprinted in Philadelphia Gazette, 2 Mar. 1796).\n   After further debate, Smith (New Hampshire) proposed that the positions of agents and consuls be combined, leaving the President with discretion which to appoint in each case.\nMr. Madison again urged the propriety of adopting the plan of agents, in preference to consuls, and shewed that in adopting this plan, they could not be considered as wanting in respect to the Executive, since they would be doing no more than their duty.\n   Claypoole\u2019s Am. Daily Advertiser, 2 Mar. 1796 (reprinted in Philadelphia Gazette, 3 Mar. 1796). Bourne\u2019s amendment was defeated; amended versions of Livingston\u2019s resolutions were carried and sent to a committee to prepare bills (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\n          the United States \u2026 (42 vols.; Washington, 1834\u201356)., 4th Cong., 1st sess., 396\u2013400).", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0165", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Mark Pragers and Company, 3 March 1796\nFrom: Mark Pragers and Company\nTo: Madison, James\nSir\nFront Street No. 36 North 3d March 1796\nWe recd. yesterday a Letter from Mr. Arnold Henry Dohrman a[t] New York, requesting to settle a claim you have against him for Mr. Philip Mazzei, we beg therefore to be informed when you will be at leisure and one of our house will do him self the pleasure to call on you, to converse on the subject. We are respectfully Sir Your most Obedt. Servts.\nPragers & Co.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0166", "content": "Title: Northwestern Land Offices, [3 March] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n   On 26 January 1796 Smith (South Carolina) reported a bill to establish offices for the sale of land in the territory northwest of the Ohio River and above the mouth of the Kentucky River. Its clauses included the creation of a surveyor general with authority to appoint deputies; rectangular surveys and the division of the land into tracts three miles square; and the price of land fixed at $2 per acre. The purposes of the bill, in Smith\u2019s words, were \u201cto raise revenue and to sell lands in such lots as would be most convenient to purchasers.\u201d\n   Between 15 and 19 February the bill underwent intensive scrutiny in a Committee of the Whole, especially with regard to the size of lots to be sold, the methods of sale (fixed price as opposed to auction), and the social desirability of releasing so much land onto the market. On 2 March, Williams (New York), to prevent land being acquired for speculation, moved that if \u201cone actual settler be not on every \u2014 acres of land within \u2014 years from the sale thereof, it shall return to the Government of the United States, the same as if no such sale had taken place.\u201d The debate continued on 3 March, with Gallatin (Pennsylvania) supporting Williams\u2019s amendment, irrespective of its effects on the westward migration of settlers (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\n          the United States \u2026 (42 vols.; Washington, 1834\u201356)., 4th Cong., 1st sess., 267, 328\u201331, 334\u201337, 338\u201344, 345\u201349, 350\u201355, 402\u20137, 408\u201314; see also Malcolm J. Rohrbough, The Land Office Business: The Settlement and Administration of American Public Lands, 1789\u20131837 [New York, 1968], pp. 17\u201319; and Payson Jackson Treat, The National Land System, 1785\u20131820 [New York, 1910], pp. 80\u201386).\nMr. Madison was not surprised to hear different opinions on this question, according as members felt from the usages of the States to which they belonged. It was difficult to judge precisely betwixt different opinions, from the blanks of the bill not being filled up. Perhaps a good deal depended on the quantity of land to be offered for sale. Purchases made, he said, under a consideration that the land would be speedily settled, would be made at a higher price, and those made under an idea of a considerably distant settlement, would command a price in proportion. The principal object was to fill the Treasury as soon as possible. He believed the obliging of purchasers to settle land within a limited time would be an obstruction in the sale; but there were several considerations which ought to be weighed. If by requiring actual settlers they should repel a part of those who did not intend to settle themselves on the land, they might not repel others. Persons would be more ready to go into a wilderness, if they were assured of company. The amendment would have less effect in repelling large purchasers, than at first imagined. If persons knew when they purchased that they must provide settlers, they will see that a great advantage may arise from their enterprise, and will give a greater price. With respect to the policy of increasing emigration there seemed to be a middle course. It would not be right, he said, to encourage emigrations, nor to throw obstacles in the way of them. He believed, with the gentleman from Pennsylvania, that if they were ever so desirous that emigrations should not take place to that country, it would not hinder them. He was opposed to a greater quantity of land being brought to market than could be settled. The consideration of settlement, he said, would be found to operate much less on the price than was supposed; he knew not whether it would not increase the price. But as the subject was important, and greater light might be thrown upon the business hereafter, he would wish the forfeiture of the land to be struck out, and left to be modified by the select committee.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0167", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 6 March 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhilada. Mar. 6. 1796\nI have recd. your\u2019s of  covering a letter to John Bringhurst which has been forwarded to him. There has not been time enough yet for an answer. The letter promised to myself, in yours, has not come [to] hand. The delay can be sufficiently accounted for by the irregularities of the Southern Mails, particularly South of Baltimore.\nThe Senate have unanimously ratified the Algerine & Spanish Treaties. The latter was a bitter pill to some for two reasons; first as inviting additional emigrations to the Western Country: secondly, as jostling with the Mississippi article in the British Treaties. The Spanish article is in the words following: \u201cIt is likewise agreed that the western boundary of the United States which separates them from the Spanish Colony of Louisiana, is in the middle of the channel or bed of the river Mississippi from the Northern boundary of the said States, to the completion of the 31\u00b0. of latitude North of the Equator. And his C. Majesty has likewise agreed that the navigation of the said river in its whole breadth from its Source to the Ocean shall be free only to his subjects & the Citizens of the U. States, unless he should extend this privilege to the subjects of other powers by special Convention.\u201d Doubts were expressed by King in the Senate whether this could be construed into a harmony with the stipulations to G. B. and the pulse of the body felt on the subject with a view to a declaratory proviso to the ratification. It was concluded however not to risk the project, and to presume a construction that would avoid the inconsistency. It seems that Pinkney considered the article as admitting a construction reconcileable with the British article. It is also said that he was offered & refused a proposition expressing or implying our right to the navigation, but more directly clashing with the British Treaties.\nThe President laid the Treaty before the H. of Reps. on tuesday last about one OClock; & in the afternoon it appeared in a Proclamation in Brown\u2019s paper. I am well informed that its publication was concerted with the Printer prior to its communication to the House. Whether an original ratification was recd. as the ground of this proceeding, or the copy heretofore not deemed of sufficient formality has been viewed in a more favorable light I can not undertake to say. I suspect the latter to be the case. Perhaps also the ratification of the Spanish & Algerine Treaties, which contain some stipulations analogous to those complained of as unconstitutional in the British Treaty, may have had weight on the occasion. In general however the Spanish Treaty forms rather a contrast to the British, being more than reciprocal in its essential articles, and on the subject of contraband, & the freedom of goods in free ships, being perfectly satisfactory. A motion has been laid on the table by Mr. Livingston, calling on the President for the instructions to Jay &c. The policy of hazarding it is so questionable that he will probably let it sleep or withdraw it. Notice of direct propositions on the Treaty will probably be given tomorrow. The purport & form of them create much dive[r]sity of ideas among the opponents of the Treaty. The state of the business as it now presents itself, with the uncertainty of the particular way of thinking in several quarters of the House, make it truly difficult to decide on the course most acceptable to the body of anti-treaty members. The other side, of course have no difficulties of this sort to contend with.\nThe bill for the sale of the back lands makes progress tho\u2019 but slowly. Its fate is very uncertain. The proposed aid to the federal City will probably succeed in the event, under the patronage of the P. but in the mean time will no doubt be played off in favor of the Treaty.\nThe Court has not given judgment yet on the Carriage tax. It is said the Judges will be unanimous for its constitutionality. Hamilton & Lee advocated it at the Bar, agst. Campbell & Ingersoll. Bystanders speak highly of Campbells argument, as well as of Ingersoll\u2019s. Lee did not shine, and the great effort of his coadjutor as I learn, was to raise a fog around the subject, & to inculcate a respect in the Court for preceding sanctions, in a doubtful case.\nWe are three month\u2019s without news from France, or even G. Britain. There is a report that one of the Sedition bills has passed the H. of Lords, & is not likely to pass the H. of Commons. There is a paragraph which says that Sweeden & Denmark have prohibited the exportation of Grain. Flour here is abt. 15 dolrs. & Wheat 20/. Adieu Yrs affy.\nJs Madison Jr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0168", "content": "Title: From James Madison to James Madison, Sr., 6 March 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Madison, James, Sr.\nHond. Sir\nIn a letter to my brother Wm by last mail I acknowledged yours of the 8th. Feby; previous to which I had written several letters to which I refer on the subject of yours of Jany. 12.\nI am sorry to find our crops of Wheat falling so much short. The price it is to be hoped will make some amends. Flour is now up at 15 or 15\u00bd dollars & Wheat at 20/. at least. It would have been convenient to me if my Cart could have been ironed, but it is not essential. I did not understand that any positive agreement with B. Bradburn required him to make me a waggon, I am willing however to have it, as an article that can be put to good use. I hope you will be able to advance him the balance if necessary, as I shall be able to replace it on my return. I do not wish him to have it ironed without further instructions, because I may perhaps get Iron myself here & send it round. The prospect of having the plank sawed for my treading floors gives me much satisfaction.\nI have written to Mr. Chew, & given him fully the information stated in your letter. I have no opporty. of learning whether he still lives on Montreal, or indeed be living at all.\nThe Spanish Treaty has been unanimously ratified by the Senate. The article on the boundary & the navigation of the Mississippi is in the words following\n\u201cIt is likewise agreed that the West:n. boundary of the U. S. which separates them from the Spanish Colony of Louisiana is in the middle of the Channel or bed of the river Misspi. from the Northern boundary of the said States to the completion of the 31\u00b0. North of the Equator. And his C. Majesty has likewise agreed that the navigation of the said river in its whole breadth from its source to the Ocean shall be free only to his subjects & the Citizens of the U. S. unless he shd. extend this privilege to the subjects of other powers by special Convention.\u201d\nThe British Treaty was laid before the H. of Reps. on tuesday last. It was referred to the Come. of the Whole on the State of the Union. No question has yet been taken on it.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0169", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Thomas Jefferson, 6 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Madison, James\nI wrote you Feb. 21. since which I have recd. yours of the same day. Indeed mine of that date related only to a single article in yours of Jan. 31. & Feb. 7. I do not at all wonder at the condition in which the finances of the US. are found. Ham\u2019s object from the beginning was to throw them into forms which should be utterly undecypherable. I ever said he did not understand their condition himself, nor was able to give a clear view of the excess of our debts beyond our credits, nor whether we were diminishing or increasing the debt. My own opinion was that from the commencemt of this government to the time I ceased to attend to the subject we had been increasing our debt about a million of D. annually. If mr. Gallatin would undertake to reduce this chaos to order, present us with a clear view of our finances, & put them into a form as simple as they will admit, he will merit immortal honor. The accounts of the US. ought to be, and may be, made, as simple as those of a common farmer, and capable of being understood by common farmers.\nDisapproving, as I do, of the unjustifiable largess to the daurs. of the Ct. de Grasse, I will certainly not propose to rivet it by a second example on behalf of M. de Chastellux\u2019 son. It will only be done in the event of such a repetition of the precedent, as will give every one a right to share in the plunder. It is indeed surprizing you have not yet recieved the British treaty in form. I presume you would never recieve it were not your co-operation on it necessary. But this will oblige the formal notification of it to you. I thank you for your information respecting Lownes. There is one article still necessary to be known from mr. Howell. Lownes began with credits of 90. days from the time of the departure of the nailrod from Philadelphia (not his delivery of it to the vessel: for that makes a difference sometimes of many weeks) but he afterwards reduced it to 60. days. What would be mr. Howell\u2019s credits? I know that credits in Virginia startle a merchant in Philadelphia; but I presume that mr. Howel could have confidence enough in me (tho\u2019 not personally known to him) to make a trial, & govern himself afterwards according to the result, & to the punctuality with which he would recieve his remittances. I wish to know this, tho\u2019 I am not yet decided to drop Lownes, on account of his being a good man, & I like much to be in the hands of good men. There is great pleasure in unlimited confidence. My consumption has now advanced from 3. to 4. tons a quarter. I call for a quarter\u2019s supply at once, so that the last quarter\u2019s supply is always paid for before the next is called for, or at the very time. The Spanish treaty will have some disagreeable features, seeds of chicanery & eternal broils, instead of peace & friendship. At a period not long before that, they had been ready to sign one giving us vastly more than we had ever contemplated; particularly in our intercourse with their W. Indies. I by no means think of declining the work we have spoken of. On the contrary, I wish with ardor to begin it, since the change of form into which I propose to put it: the first ideas had always oppressed me from a consciousness of my want both of talents & materials to execute it. But it will be impossible for a year to come; and I am not certain whether, even after the present year, I shall not be obliged to put my farms under such direction as that I should be considered as not here as to them, while I should be here as to my papers. My salutations to mrs. Madison: friendly esteem to mr. Giles, Page &c.\nP.S. Have you considered all the consequences of your proposition respecting post roads? I view it as a source of boundless patronage to the executive, jobbing to members of Congress & their friends, and a bottomless abyss of public money. You will begin by only appropriating the surplus of the post-office revenues: but the other revenues will soon be called in to their aid, and it will be a scene of eternal scramble among the members who can get the most money wasted in their state, and they will always get most who are meanest. We have thought hitherto that the roads of a state could not be so well administered even by the state legislature as by the magistracy of the county, on the spot. What will it be when a member of N. H. is to mark out a road for Georgia? Does the power to establish post roads given you by congress, mean that you shall make the roads, or only select from those already made those on which there shall be a post? If the term be equivocal, (& I really do not think it so) which is the safest construction? That which permits a majority of Congress to go to cutting down mountains & bridging of rivers, or the other which if too restricted may refer it to the states for amendment, securing still due measure & proportion among us, and providing some means of information to the members of Congress tantamount to that ocular inspection which even in our county determinations the magistrate finds can not be supplied by any other evidence? The fortification of harbours was liable to great objection. But national circumstances furnished some color. In this case there is none. The roads of America are the best in the world except those of France & England. But does the state of our population, the extent of our internal commerce, the want of sea & river navigation, call for such expence on roads here, or are our means adequate to it? Think of all this and a great deal more which your good judgment will suggest, and pardon my freedom.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0171", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Arnold Henry Dohrman, ca. 6 March 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Dohrman, Arnold Henry\nLetter not found. Ca. 6 March 1796. Acknowledged in Dohrman to JM, 11 Mar. 1796. Concerns Dohrman\u2019s debt to Philip Mazzei.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0172", "content": "Title: To James Madison from James Hickley, 7 March 1796\nFrom: Hickley, James\nTo: Madison, James\nSir,\nBalte. March 7th. 1796.\nI last month call\u2019d on Coln. Madison, Orange County, on my return from Virginia & was requested by him to write to you the result of a commission he gave me concerning some business I had to transact for him here\u2014which was as follows: I was to call on Mr. Robb of Baltimore to enquire if he had recd. advice from Mr. Dunbar of Norfolk respecting some cash, which I understood that Gentn. was to receive & out of which I was to be paid for 2 pr. of 5 Feet Burr Millstones which he bespoke of me. Mr. Robb inform\u2019d me he had not heard from Mr. Dunbar on the subject, but was in daily expectation of a letter.\nThe Coln. also requested me to look out a pr. of 4 Feet Colognes & inform you of the price\u2014&c. There are not in Balte. a pr. of that diameter but 4. Feet 4.\u2019s and 4. Feet 3. Inchs. of excellent quality the price of either size 52 \u00a3. 10S. For the size of 4. Feet (were they to be had) 30 \u00a3.\nI was likewise to make enquiries concerning a Miller\u2014a good managing hand, capable of undertaking the charge of a Merchant Mill\u2014& find their terms are from 80 to 100 \u00a3 pr. year.\nThus far I have endeavour\u2019d to discharge my commission, & with respect to the Burr\u2019s hope to have them ready agreeable to appointment & also hope they may prove satisfactory. I am Sir, with much respect Your Oblig\u2019d Hble. Servt.\nJames Hickley", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0173", "content": "Title: Jay\u2019s Treaty, [7 March] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n   After Washington proclaimed the Jay treaty to be ratified on 29 February and sent it to Congress the next day, Livingston (New York) opened the Republican attack on 2 March by calling for Jay\u2019s correspondence and instructions. The House seemed reluctant to take up the issue, so Livingston raised it again, on 4 and 7 March, the second time amending his original motion to except such papers \u201cas any existing negotiation may render improper to be disclosed.\u201d Commencing the debate on 7 March, Federalist speakers opposed Livingston\u2019s request and questioned his motives for making it, implying that he wished to derange the government or possibly even to impeach the president. Livingston and his Republican colleagues argued that they sought information only (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\nMr. Madison admitted that every proposition however distantly related to a question on the Treaty, drew from the importance of that subject considerable importance to itself. In a discussion of this subject, he felt strongly the obligation of proceeding with the utmost respect to decorum, delicacy to the other departments of government, and at the same time fidelity and respect for his constituents. The proposition now before the house, he conceived, might be considered as closely connected with this important question: Whether the general power of making treaties supercedes the power of the house of representatives particularly specified in the Constitution, so as to take to the executive all deliberative will, and leave the house only an instrumental agency? He was not satisfied whether it was expedient at this time to go into a consideration of this very important question. If gentlemen were not disposed to press it, he would attempt to throw the resolution into such form as not to bear even the appearance of encroaching on the constitutional rights of the executive. The resolution, in the form in which it was first presented, was liable to objection. The mover had removed that objection, by adding an exception to it. He wished to submit, whether the resolution would not be further improved by introducing the following words in lieu of those proposed in addition by the member from New-York: \u201cExcept so much of said papers as, in his judgment, it may not be consistent with the interest of the United States at this time to disclose.\u201d He moved those words as an amendment after striking out those brought forward by the gentleman from New-York.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0174", "content": "Title: Jay\u2019s Treaty, [10 March] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n   After JM\u2019s amendment to Livingston\u2019s motion was lost, the House resumed its discussion of the same, with Giles (Virginia) referring it to a Committee of the Whole for more extended debate. This continued on 9 and 10 March (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\n          the United States \u2026 (42 vols.; Washington, 1834\u201356)., 4th Cong., 1st sess., 438, 441\u201387).\nMr. Madison said that the direct proposition before the House, had been so absorbed by the incidental question which had grown out of it, concerning the constitutional authority of Congress in the case of Treaties, that he should confine his present observations to the latter.\nOn some points there could be no difference of opinion; and there need not, consequently, be any discussion. All are agreed that the sovereignty resides in the people: that the Constitution, as the expression of their will, is the guide & the rule, to the Government; that the distribution of powers made by the Constitution, ought to be sacredly observed by the respective Departments: that the House of Representatives ought to be equally careful to avoid encroachments on the authority given to other departments, and to guard their own authority against encroachments from the other departments: These principles are as evident as they are vital & essential to our political system.\nThe true question, therefore, before the Committee, was not, whether the will of the people expressed in the Constitution was to be obeyed; but how that will was to be understood; in what manner it had actually divided the powers delegated to the Government; and what construction would best reconcile the several parts of the instrument with each other, and be most consistent with its general spirit & object.\nOn comparing the several passages in the Constitution, which had been already cited to the Committee, it appeared, that if taken literally and without limit, they must necessarily clash with each other. Certain powers to regulate commerce, to declare war, to raise armies, to borrow money &c &c, are first specifically vested in Congress. The power of making Treaties, which may relate to the same subjects, is afterwards vested in the President and two thirds of the Senate. And it is declared in another place that the Constitution, and the laws of the U. States made in pursuance thereof, and Treaties made or to be made under the authority of the U. States shall be the supreme law of the land: and the judges, in every State, shall be bound thereby, any thing in the Constitution or laws of any State, to the contrary notwithstanding.\nThe term supreme, as applied to Treaties evidently meant a supremacy over the State Constitutions and laws, and not over the Constitution & laws of the U. States. And it was observable that the Judicial authority & the existing laws, alone of the States, fell within the supremacy expressly enjoined. The injunction was not extended to the Legislative authority of the States or to laws requisite to be passed by the States, for giving effect to Treaties; and it might be a problem worthy of the consideration, though not needing the decision of the Committee, in what manner the requisite provisions were to be obtained from the States.\nIt was to be regretted, he observed, that on a question of such magnitude as the present, there should be any apparent inconsistency or inexplicitness in the Constitution, that could leave room for different constructions. As the case however had happened, all that could be done was to examine the different constructions with accuracy & fairness, according to the rules established therefor, and to adhere to that which should be found most rational, consistent, and satisfactory.\nHe stated the five following, as all the constructions worthy of notice, that had either been contended for, or were likely to occur.\nI. The Treaty-power, and the Congressional power, might be regarded as moving in such separate orbits, and operating on such separate objects, as to be incapable of interfering with, or touching each other.\nII. As concurrent powers relating to the same objects; and operating like the power of Congress, & the power of the State Legislatures, in relation to taxes on the same articles.\nIII As each of them supreme over the other, as it may be the last exercised; like the different assemblies of the people, under the Roman Government, in the form of Centuries, & in the form of Tribes.\nIV The Treaty power may be viewed, according to the doctrine maintained by the opponents of the proposition before the Committee, as both unlimited in its objects, and compleatly paramount in its authority.\nV. The Congressional power may be viewed as co-operative with the Treaty-power, on the Legislative subjects submitted to Congress by the Constitution; in the manner explained by the member from Pennsylvania (Mr. Galatin) and exemplified in the British Government.\nThe objection to the First construction is, that it would narrow too much the Treaty-power, to exclude from Treaties altogether, the enumerated subjects submitted to the power of Congress; some or other of this class of regulations being generally comprized in the important compacts which take place between nations.\nThe objection to the Second is, that a concurrent exercise of the Treaty, & Legislative powers, on the same objects, would be evidently impracticable. In the case of taxes laid both by Congress and by the State Legislatures on the same articles, the Constitution presumed that the concurrent authorities might be exercised with such prudence and moderation as would avoid an interference between their respective regulations. But it was manifest that such an interference would be unavoidable between the Treaty power & the power of Congress. A Treaty of commerce for example, would rarely be made, that would not trench on existing legal regulations, as well as be a bar to future ones.\nTo the Third, the objection was equally fatal; that it involved the absurdity of an Imperium in imperio; of two powers both of them supreme, yet each of them liable to be superseded by the other. There was indeed an instance of this kind found in the Government of Ancient Rome, where the two Authorities of the Comitia Curiata, or meetings by Centuries and the Comitia tributa or meetings by tribes, were each possessed of the supreme Legislative power, and could each annul the proceedings of the other: For altho the people composed the body of the meetings in both cases, yet as they voted in one according to wealth, and in the other according to numbers, the organizations were so distinct as to create in fact, two distinct authorities. But it was not necessary to dwell on this political phenomenon, which had been celebrated as a subject of curious speculation only, and not as a model for the institutions of any other Country.\nThe Fourth construction is that which is contended for by the opponents of the proposition depending; and which gives to the Treaty-power all the latitude which is not necessarily prohibited by a regard to the general form & fundamental principles of the Constitution.\nIn order to smooth the way for this doctrine, it had been Said, that the power to make treaties was laid down in the most indefinite terms; & that the power to make laws, was no limitation to it, because the two powers were essentially different in their nature. If there was ingenuity in this distinction, it was all the merit it could have: for it must be obvious that it could neither be reduced to practice, nor be reconciled to principles. Treaties and laws, whatever the nature of them may be, must in their operation, be often the same. Regulations by Treaty, if carried into effect, are laws. If Congress pass acts relating to provisions in a Treaty, so as to become incorporated with the Treaty, they are not the less laws on that account. A legislative act is the same whether performed by this or that body, or whether it be grounded on the consideration that a foreign nation agrees to pass a like act, or on any other consideration.\nIt must be objected to this construction therefore that it extends the Power of the President & Senate too far, and cramps the powers of Congress too much.\nHe did not admit, that the term \u201cTreaty\u201d had the extensive and unlimited meaning which some seemed to claim for it. It was to be considered as a Technical term, and its meaning was to be sought for in the use of it, particularly in Governments which bore most analogy to our own. In absolute Governments, where the whole power of the Nation is usurped by the Government, and all the Departments of power are united in the same person, the Treaty power has no bounds, because the power of the Sovereign to execute it has none. In limited Governments, the case is different. The Treaty power, if undefined is not understood to be unlimited. In Great Britain it is positively restrained on the subjects of money, and dismembering the Empire. Nor could the Executive there, if his recollection was right, make an Alien a subject by means of a Treaty.\nBut the question immediately under consideration, and which the context & spirit of the Constitution must decide, turned on the extent of the Treaty-power in relation to the objects specifically & expressly submitted to the Legislative power of Congress.\nIt was an important, & appeared to him to be a decisive view of the subject, that if the Treaty-power alone could perform any one act for which the authority of Congress is required by the Constitution, it may perform every act for which the authority of that part of the Government is required. Congress have power to regulate trade, to declare war, to raise armies, to levy, borrow, and appropriate money, &c. If by Treaty therefore, as paramount to the Legislative power, the President & Senate can regulate Trade; they can also declare war; they can raise armies to carry on war; and they can procure money to support armies. These powers, however different in their nature or importance, are on the same footing in the Constitution, and must share the same fate. A member from Connecticut (Mr. Griswold) had admitted that the power of war, was exclusively vested in Congress; but he had not attempted, nor did it seem possible, to draw any line between that, & the other enumerated powers. If any line could be drawn, it ought to be presented to the Committee; and he should, for one, be ready to give it the most impartial consideration. He had not, however, any expectation that such an attempt could succeed: and therefore should submit to the serious consideration of the Committee, that although the Constitution had carefully & jealously lodged the power of war, of armies, of the purse &c. in Congress, of which the immediate representatives of the people, formed an integral part; yet, according to the construction maintained on the other side, The President & Senate by means of a Treaty of alliance with a nation at war, might make the United States parties in the war: they might stipulate subsidies, and even borrow money to pay them: they might furnish Troops, to be carried to Europe, Asia or Africa: they might even undertake to keep up a standing army in time of peace, for the purpose of co-operating, on given contingences, with an Ally, for mutual safety or other common objects. Under this aspect, the Treaty power would be tremendous indeed.\nThe force of this reasoning is not obviated by saying that the P. & Senate would only pledge the public faith & that the agency of Congress would be necessary to carry it into operation. For, what difference does this make, if the obligation imposed be as is alledged, a constitutional one; if Congress have no will but to obey, & if to disobey be Treason & rebellion against the Constituted Authorities. Under a constitutional Obligation, with such sanctions to it, Congress, in case the P. & S. should enter into an alliance for war, would be nothing more than the mere heralds for proclaiming it. In fact it had been said that they must obey the injunctions of a Treaty as implicitly as a subordinate officer in the Executive line was bound to obey the chief Magistrate; or as the Judges are bound, to decide according to the laws.\nAs a further objection to the doctrine contended for, he called the attention of the Committee to another very serious consequence from it. The specific powers, as vested in Congress by the Constitution, are qualified by sundry exceptions deemed of great importance to the safe exercise of them. These restrictions are contained in \u00a7IX of the Constitution, and in the articles of amendment which have been added to it. Thus \u201cthe migration or importation of such persons as any of the States shall think proper to admit, shall not be prohibited by Congress.\u201d He referred to several of the other restrictive paragraphs which followed, particularly the 5th. which says that no tax shall be laid on exports, & no preference given to ports of one State over those of another &c. It was Congress also he observed which was to make no law respecting an establishment of Religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof, or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, &c &c. Now if the legislative powers specifically vested in Congress, are to be no limitation or check to the Treaty power, it was evident that the exceptions to those powers, could be no limitation or check to the Treaty power.\nReturning to the powers particularly lodged in Congress, he took notice of those relating to war & money, or the sword & the purse as requiring a few additional observations, in order to shew that the Treaty power could not be paramount over them.\nIt was well known that with respect to the regulation of Commerce, it had long remained under the jurisdiction of the States; and that in the establishment of the present Government the question was, whether & how far it should be transferred to the general jurisdiction. But with respect to the power of making war, it had, from the commencement of the Revolution, been judged & exercised as a branch of the General Authority, essential to the public safety. The only question therefore that could arise, was whether the power should be lodged in this or in that Department of the Federal Government. And we find it expressly vested in the Legislative, and not in the Executive Department; with a view, no doubt, to guard it against the abuses which might be apprehended from placing the power of declaring war, in those hands which would conduct it when declared, and which therefore in the ordinary course of things would be most tempted to go into war. But according to the doctrine now maintained, the United States, by means of an Alliance with a foreign power, might be driven into a State of war, by the President & Senate, contrary both to the sense of the Legislature, & to the letter & spirit of the Constitution.\nOn the subject also of appropriating money, particularly to a military establishment, the provision of the Constitution demanded the most severe attention. To prevent the continuance of a Military force for a longer term than might be indispensable, it is expressly declared that no appropriation for the support of armies shall be made for more than two years: so that at the end of every two years, the question whether a military force ought to be continued or not, must be open for consideration, and can be decided in the negative by either the House of Representatives, or the Senate\u2019s refusing to concur in the requisite appropriations. This is a most important check & security agst. the danger of standing armies, & against the prosecution of a war beyond its rational objects; and the efficacy of the precaution is the greater, as at the end of every two years, a re-election of the House of Representatives gives the people an opportunity of judging on the occasion for themselves. But if, as is contended, the House of Represents. have no right to deliberate on appropriations pledged by the President & Senate, and cannot refuse them, without a breach of the Constitution and of their oaths, the case is precisely the same, and the same effects would follow, as if the appropriation were not limited to two years, but made for the whole period contemplated at once. Where would be the check of a biennial appropriation for a military establishment raised for four years, if at the expiration of two years, the appropriation was to be continued by a constitutional necessity for two years more? It is evident that no real difference can exist between an appropriation for four years at once, & two appropriations for two years each, the second of which the two Houses would be constitutionally obliged to make.\nIt had been said that in all cases a law must either be repealed, or its execution provided for. Whatever respect might be due to this principle in general he denied that it could be applicable to the case in question. By the provision of the Constitution limiting appropriations to two years, it was clearly intended to enable either branch of the Legislature to discontinue a military force at the end of every two years. If the law establishing it, must be necessarily repealed, before an appropriation could be witheld, it would be in the power of either Branch to keep up an establishment by refusing to concur in a repeal. The construction and reasoning therefore opposed to the rights of the House, would evidently defeat an essential provision of the Constitution.\nThe Constitution of the U. States is a Constitution of limitations and checks. The powers given up by the people for the purposes of Government, had been divided into two great classes. One of these, formed the State Governments, the other the Federal Government. The powers of the Government had been further divided into three great Departments; and the Legislative department again subdivided into two independent branches. Around each of these portions of power, were seen also, exceptions and qualifications, as additional guards against the abuses to which power is liable. With a view to this policy of the Constitution, it could not be unreasonable, if the clauses under discussion were thought doubtful, to lean towards a construction that would limit & controul the Treaty-making power, rather than towards one that would make it omnipotent.\nHe came next to the Fifth Construction which left with the President & Senate the power of making Treaties, but required at the same time the Legislative sanction & co-operation, in those cases where the Constitution had given express & specific powers to the Legislature. It was to be presumed that in all such cases, the Legislature would exercise its authority with discretion, allowing due weight to the reasons which led to the Treaty, and to the circumstance of the existence of the Treaty. Still, however, this House in its Legislative capacity, must exercise its reason; it must deliberate; for deliberation is implied in Legislation. If it must, carry all Treaties into effect, it would no longer exercise a legislative power: it would be the mere instrument of the will of another Department, and would have no will of its own. Where the Constitution contains a specific & peremptory injunction on Congress to do a particular act, Congress must of course do the act, because the Constitution, which is paramount over all the Departments, has expressly taken away the Legislative discretion of Congress. The case is essentially different where the act of one Department of Government interferes with a power expressly vested in another and no where expressly taken away. Here the latter power must be exercised according to its nature; and if it be a Legislative power, it must be exercised with that deliberation & discretion which is essential to the nature of Legislative power.\nIt was said yesterday that a Treaty was paramount to all other Acts of Government, because all power resided in the people, and the President & Senate, in making a Treaty, being the Constitutional organs of the people for that purpose, a Treaty when made was the act of the people. The argument was as strong the other way. Congress are as much the organs of the people, in making laws, as the President & Senate can be in making Treaties; and laws, when made are as much the acts of the people, as any acts whatever can be.\nIt had been objected, that the Treaty-power would be in fact frustrated, if Treaties were to depend in any degree on the Legislature. He thought there was no such danger. The several powers vested in the several Departments form but one Government; and the will of the nation may be expressed thro\u2019 one Government, operating under certain checks, on the subject of Treaties, as well as under other checks on other subjects. The objection would have weight if the voluntary cooperation of the different States was to be obtained.\nAnother objection was that no Treaty could be made at all, if the agency of Congress were to concur, because Congress could not Treat, and their Agency would not be of a Treaty nature. He would not stop to enquire how far a loan of money from a foreign Government, under a law of Congress, was or was not of the nature of a public Contract or Treaty. It was more proper to observe, that the practice in G. Britain was an evidence that a Legislative Agency did not viciate a Treaty. Nay, if the Objection were solid, it was evident that the Treaty lately entered into with that Nation, could never be binding on this; because, it had been laid before the Parliament for its Legislative agency as necessary to effectuate the Treaty; and if that agency was to viciate & destroy the nature of the Treaty on that side, the obligation, on the principle of all contracts, would be dissolved on both sides.\nHe did not see the utility in this case of urging, as had been done, a particular distrust of the House of Representatives. He thought the President & Senate would be as likely to make a bad Treaty, as this Branch of the Government would be to throw obstructions in the way of a good one, after it was made.\nNo construction he said might be perfectly free from difficulties. That which he had espoused, was subject to the least; as it gave signification to every part of the Constitution, was most consistent with its general spirit, and was most likely in practice to promote the great object of it, the public good. The construction which made the Treaty power in a manner omnipotent he thought utterly inadmissible, in a Constitution marked throughout with limitations & checks.\nHe should not at present he said, enter any further into the subject. It had been brought before the House rather earlier than he had expected or than was perhaps necessary; and his observations therefore might not have been as full or as well digested, as they ought to have [been]; such as they were he submitted them to the candid attention of the Committee.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0175", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Arnold Henry Dohrman, 11 March 1796\nFrom: Dohrman, Arnold Henry\nTo: Madison, James\nNewyork 11e. March 1796\nIn reply to yr. favr. I have the honr. to say, that in complyance with yr. request, I have informed my self of the rate of Damages & Interest on protested Bills usual in this City & find that there are two ways, and to comply with my desire to settle with Mr: Mazzei on the most liberall terms; I have choosen that which favours the most the Interest of Mr. Mazzei, of which I have send a statement to Messrs. Pragers\u2014if I offered to settle according to the Virga. costume it originated from a persuasion, that it was more favoravel to Mr. Mazzei, but since I am mistaken, I heartely wish to comply with the Newyork usance\u2014as I am inclined to comply with terms which are equally liberal & Just, I hope that the indulgence you have shewn me will be no reproach to you, for my part I shall for ever remember your humanity & beg you to be persuaded, that nothing can give me more pleasure than to obey any commands with which you may please to honour me, your prosperity shall for ever Interest me & my good wishes shall never cease to accompany you, with great estem I remain Sir Your oblidged humble Servant\nArnd. Henry Dohrman", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0177", "content": "Title: From James Madison to James Madison, Sr., 13 March 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Madison, James, Sr.\nHond Sir\nPha. March 13. 1796\nI have recd. your\u2019s of Feby 24. I am glad that Majr. Lee has so kindly undertaken to attend to the friendly suit for adjusting the share I have in the lands held in the name of my late brother. I can lay down no rules for him which will not occur to himself. The object being simply to vest in me legally what is mine in equity, he will perceive that a suit in equity is necessary, that a good lawyer (say Col. Nicholas) is to be employed to commence & conduct it, and that all the evidence to be found in existing papers, & the depositions of persons who can give other evidence, are to be made use of. For this purpose it will be proper for him to carry with him the patents, which the Lawyer may perhaps want in order to define the case, and to name to the Lawyer the persons whose depositions can be useful. I wish the proper steps to be taken not only for establishing my right, but for a partition of the land also. With respect to the land on Sandy, It will be practicable perhaps to have the patents so taken out, & the surveys so entered, as to divide Nelly\u2019s interest & mine, without the expence & trouble of a suit for the purpose. If it should be necessary for Majr. Lee to take with him any fees for the Counsel to be employed, I must get you or Mr. Dunbar to advance the money. I have already mentioned to you that I have procured here a draught on Kentuckey in favor of Mr. H. Taylor, which will be applicable to your as well as my purposes. Present my respects & thanks to Majr. Lee, if he be with you, particularly for his kindness in having the land on Sandy surveyed, of which Mr. Hubbard Taylor\u2019s letter gave me the information. As to the suit necessary for the concurrence of Nelly in making a title to Col. R. Taylor, he (Col. Taylor) will himself know the steps to be taken; and I wrote to him from Orange on the subject of making a title to Nelly & myself for the tract of land due from him. If this can not be so made as to separate my interest from hers, a further friendly suit must be commenced in my behalf agst. her, which I must request the favor of Majr. Lee also to have conducted. I forgot to answer your question about the pamphlet. Majr. Lee is perfectly welcome to a few of them; or rather as many as he may wish for himself, & can carry conveniently to his friends.\nI am pleased with the manner in which Ths. Jones has paid himself. Mr. Twyman may rely on a punctual payment of the interest as long as the principal shall be unpaid.\nI am somewhat at a loss on the subject of Corn for Black Meadow. I hold it for certain that it will continue to rise at least till Harvest, & perhaps longer. To take my brother Williams Corn at the current price now may therefore deprive him of a higher, & to wait for his or Mr. Daniels at a higher price hereafter when they may chuse to sell, will be a loss to me. If my brother is obliged to sell now; I will take about 20 barrels or more; provided you can draw the money from Mr. Dunbar, or otherwise get it, to be replaced on my return. If my brother does not chuse to sell at the present price, & you can get it in the neighborhood on credit till I return, or can make out through Mr. D. to advance the money, I shall be glad to have the same quantity at least provided. I repeat that I hold it for certain that the price will get higher & higher. My horses at Black Meadow must be fed so as to be kept properly up. If Collins has not sold or used his Hay, I will take it of him; as well as his corn at the price paid to others. If my rye should turn out pretty well, that will be a great resource after harvest. I hope also the crop of Irish potatoes at Black Meadow as well as Sawney\u2019s will have been made to assist the Corn-House. Be so good as to direct large crops of this article to be planted at both places, the ensuing season; & I recommend the same plan for yourself. Majr. Hite writes me that he last year planted in the drilled method 7. Acres of exhausted land, manured in the drills with 170 waggon loads of manure, (about 25 loads to the acre) and obtained 1560 bushels (about 222 bushels to the acre): which at 1/6 per bushel is \u00a3117 or \u00a316.14.3 per Acre. Does it not deserve consideration whether you had not better apply your crop of manure to potatoes than to corn.\nYou have been particularly lucky in getting your Clover seed at 50/. The ordinary price is at least double. I shall be much obliged for whatever you may be able to spare me. I have, as written you, taken steps to get more seed from Fredericksburg, but have not been informed of the result. The Fields & the order in which they are to be preferred, are as follows\u2014\n1. The field at Black M. cleared last winter & now in Rye, to be sowed with Timothy & Clover mixed, as heretofore explained. 2. Next, the field at Lewis Collins\u2019, with Clover alone. 3. Lastly, the half of the great field in Wheat & Rye adjoining Coleby Cowhered, as it is to be divided by a fence running from the meadow fence to the road fence, just on the lower or North side of the meadow ground last spring in Oats. This meadow ground is to be again in Oats (if the Timothy sown last spring with the oats has failed) and I wish a mixture of Clover & Timothy to be sown with the oats. At Sawney\u2019s I wish the little field opposite your new Ground to be sown in Clover alone or mixt with Timothy, the proportion of Timothy to be increased along the bottom adjoining the little spot of meadow in the field: It will be desirable if the seed will hold out, to sow the other field also now in Wheat, under the same inclosure. 2. [sic] After these fields, I wish the Western & more worne half of the field lying on the South side of the Mountain towards Mr. Merry\u2019s to be sown in Clover alone; and the ground near the Stable intended for oats, I wish to be likewise sown with Clover along with the Oats. In general it is to be understood that B. Meadow is to be first served, because that is the place which needs most & is best arranged for, the recruiting effect of Clover: & that whether Clover can or can not be got, in sufficient quantity, all the Timothy seed on hand is to be sown on the fields, giving preference to the richer parts of them, on which Timothy will make good pasturage of dry years, & tolerable hay of moist ones.\nI do not think it advisable to rent the House to the Carpenter. If He would be a fit hand, might it not be well to engage him to work by the year, according to our plan of building Houses at the Mill-ford?\nThe House of Reps. are at length embarked in the discussion of the British Treaty. According to the present appear[ances] a majority will vote that Congs. have a constitutional right to refuse to pass the laws necessary for carrying it into execution. It will be a subsequent & distinct question whether that right shall or shall not in the present case be exercised.\nWe remain without any late authentic news from Europe. Accts. which are credited, say that the British armament is arriving in the West Indies, which will co-operate with other circumstances in keeping up if not raising the price of provisions in this Country. Flour continues abt. 15 dollrs. per barrel.\nDolley wrote to my mother a few posts ago, and joins me in dutiful affections to you both. It is impossible to guess the time of our liberation from this place. I am extremely anxious to see it arrive. Yr. Affece. son\nJs. Madison Jr.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0179", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 21 March 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhilada March 21. 1796\nAt the desire of Mr. de Liancourt, I put into his hands this introduction to your remembrance of him as an acquaintance at Paris. He meditates a visit to the Southern States, and expects to have the pleasure of taking Monticello in his route, either in going or returning. I need add nothing to your knowledge of his respectability & virtues, I shall only say that the impression I have of both, induces me to concur cheerfully in the use he now makes of me. With the highest esteem & regard I am Dear Sir Yrs. Affecly.\nJs. Madison Jr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0181", "content": "Title: Notes for Speech in Congress, [ca. 23 March\u20132 April] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \nEditorial Note\nThese notes present a difficult editorial problem insofar as their contents do not clearly establish a structure for any of the three major speeches JM delivered during the Jay treaty debates in March and April of 1796. The notes cannot have served as JM\u2019s preparation for his speech of 10 March since their organization, as well as other internal evidence (see nn. 4, 5, and 9, below), suggests that JM could not have begun drafting them until the House debate on Livingston\u2019s resolution was well advanced, if not actually completed. Moreover, with the exception of the points included under his heading of \u201cCotemporary evidence,\u201d JM drew on very little of this material for his speech of 6 April on the two resolutions presented by Thomas Blount, while that speech, in turn, discussed many topics not included in these notes. And if JM made any preparations for his 15 April speech on the merits of Jay\u2019s treaty, it was probably by recalling to his mind the arguments he had written out in September 1795 for the petition to the General Assembly of Virginia. The structure of JM\u2019s argument, if not the exact wording, in his final speech on Jay\u2019s treaty is very similar to that found in the document he had so painstakingly penned in the fall of 1795.\nGiven the marked differences between these draft notes and any of the reported versions of the speeches JM actually delivered, there is the possibility that these notes were made for a speech that was never given, at least certainly not along the lines JM was considering as he compiled them. JM himself, in his speech of 6 April, provided one clue that this could have been the case when he mentioned that he had intended to speak again in the debate on Livingston\u2019s resolution but was prevented from doing so by its \u201csudden termination.\u201d JM\u2019s remarks on 6 April, however, suggest only that he had wished to speak again in order to respond to demands, made repeatedly by several Federalists during the March debate, that he and Abraham Baldwin of Georgia inform the House about the true intentions of the 1787 Federal Convention as to which branches of the government were to be entrusted with treaty-making powers. Yet only one section of JM\u2019s notes\u2014that under the heading of \u201cCotemporary evidence\u201d\u2014seems to address this particular problem, and it does so by reference to the debates in three state ratifying conventions rather than to the proceedings of the Federal Convention itself. Furthermore, the notes, considered as a whole, seem more wide-ranging than would have been necessary had JM only wished to respond to Federalist allegations that he was guilty of political inconsistency in changing his mind on these issues between 1789 and 1796.\nThere remains, therefore, the possibility that JM had some uses for these notes that may not have been fully realized. That hypothesis seems all the more plausible if it is recalled that after the passage of Livingston\u2019s resolution in the House on 24 March, the Jay treaty debate did not take the course that JM and other Republican leaders had anticipated. The correspondence of JM, John Beckley, and Edward Livingston in mid-March 1796 establishes quite clearly that they expected the debate on Livingston\u2019s resolution to be followed by the introduction of two further resolutions on the right of House members to refuse legislation for treaties containing provisions that encroached on their constitutionally defined duties. These two resolutions were never presented in the form that the House Republican leaders seem to have contemplated, largely because Washington\u2019s refusal to comply with the call for Jay\u2019s papers so disturbed the fragile antitreaty coalition in the House that JM felt obliged to consolidate a majority for any future vote on the treaty by persuading the House, in the debate on the two resolutions presented by Thomas Blount on 6 April, that its members had been within their rights to request Jay\u2019s papers in the first place.\nTo some extent, JM and the Republican caucus that met on 2 April attempted to salvage something of this earlier strategy by incorporating into the first of Blount\u2019s resolutions a declaration to the effect that the House had a \u201cright and duty\u201d to deliberate on the expediency of legislating for treaties that stipulated \u201cregulations on any of the subjects submitted by the Constitution to the power of Congress.\u201d But a debate on the right to call for information was a very different matter from one that would have asserted a clear constitutional basis for the House to reject appropriations or any other measures necessary to implement the Jay treaty, and it was probably for this reason that JM seems not to have used much of the material contained in these notes. At the most, he seems to have adapted only some of their contents for his speech of 6 April as part of his response to the situation arising from Washington\u2019s refusal to deliver Jay\u2019s diplomatic papers to the House.\n[ca. 23 March\u20132 April 1796]\nThe Patrons of the Treaty power take part of Constn;\n\u2014\u2013Easy to say. P. & S. have power to Treaty\u2014& treaties supreme laws.\n\u2014\u2013Equally easy to say Congs. have power to legisl: & their acts laws.\n\u2014\u2013Apparent collision the most they can pretend to.\nDifference of opinion\n1. as to extent of Treaty power\u2014\n2. as to the nature of the Oblign. on Congs.\n\u2014\u2013The prevailing opinion is\n\u2014the power unlimited, &\nso as\n\u2014the obligation inviolable\n\u2014to supersede all existing laws, &\n\u2014to make Congs. ministerial in providing new laws.\n\u2014\u2013If this high & paramount operation belong to Treaties\u2014it must proceed either\n1\u2014from the nature of the Treaty & Legisl: powers;\n2\u2014from the terms of the Constitution, or\n3\u2014from some palpable absurdity or grievous inconveniency of the contrary doctrine\n1.\u2003Not from the nature of Treaty making, & law making power\n\u2014\u2013In general law\u2014the highest exertion of power & the legisl: supreme over other Departs.\n\u2014\u2013No instance where Treaty power is not vested in the Legislure, as Sweeden\u2014Poland\u2014Venice\u2014France\u2014Spain\u2014\n\u2014\u2013except G. B. where limited to verge of Prerogative\n\u2014\u2013In Govt. of U. S.\u2014lawmaking power in some respects superior & directory\u2014in no respect less than co-ordinate with other Depts.\n\u2014\u2013Case of repealg. a law\u2014\n\u2014of the same specific nature & force\n\u2014repeal equipollent to enactment when repealg or suspending law repealed.\nBesides then, the objection to 2 supremes one capable of annulling the other\u2014it is inconsonant to const:l. principles generally & to the spirit of our own, that \u27e8laws\u27e9 be repeald but by law\n\u2014\u2013Contended that Treaty power relates to a new Region of Legislation\u2014embraces new objects\u2014& operates in new modes.\n\u2014\u2013Then can not interfere with the Region, the objects or the modes, of Congressl. legislation.\nBut, if Treaties are to have the force given to them\u2014\n\u2014they operate within the sphere of Congs.\n\u2014they operate on the same objects\u2014e.g. on commerce\n\u2014they operatein the same mode\nby the same officers\nunder the same sanctions\nwith the same results.\nIt is true that they are distinguished by the circumstance of mutuality\u2014but this consideration or inducement only\u2014not change in the operation itself.\nNot even mutuality\u2014as commercial laws\u2014for money\nA law\u2014in pursuance of contract, domestic or foreign, law\n>From this view\u2014the nature of the case, no argument.\n>see State Treaties\u2014& compacts\u2014can these repeal laws of U. S.?\n2.\u2003Does not proceed from the terms of the constitution\n\u2014\u2013if it does, obey\u2014but, should be clear.\n\u2014\u2013General & Specific Grant to be otherwise expounded\n\u2014\u2013See the text\u2014Constitution, laws & Treas. to \u201cland\u201d\u2014no superiority expresd\u2014contrary implied.\n\u2014\u2013True meaning\u2014Const: laws conformable to it\u2014& Treaties consistent with both\u2014genl. code, supreme law\n\u2014\u2013This the meaning if text stopt there\u2014but followg words preclude every other.\n\u2014\u2013To express subordination of State laws\u2014& not fedl. laws\u2014where less dbtful\u2014exempts the latter.\nMaryd. Va. & No. Ca. amends.\n\u2014\u2013See Ratifications\u2014p. 15\u201319\u201325. for sense of those States, as to fundl. & unalienable rights.\n\u2014\u2013See also p. 29\u2014art 23d. for sense of N. C. as explained by Mr. Holland.\n3.\u2003Does it proceed from palpable absurdity, or grievous inconveniency?\n\u2014Unity in Govt. remains\n\u2014inconveniency of conflicting authorities the other way\n\u2014Foreign Govt. bound to know ours.\nIt is said\u2014that Congress have no legislative Agency, in case of Treaties, because if Const:n. silent, not devolve on them.\n\u2014\u2013All States, where Legisl. & Ex. separate give the power\u2014except G. B.\n\u2014\u2013Congs. can pledge faith, as to money &c\n\u2014\u2013States can make compacts, by Legislres.\n\u2014\u2013Congs. not Ex. consent to them.\n\u261e If Congs. had power to treat\u2014cd. they supersede the specified powers of the Executive.\nBut if Congs. can\u2019t treat, can alone legislate & as when they want Treaty, depend on Ex. so when laws wanted\u2014Ex. depend on Congs.\nSaid that Parlt. extorted from Prerogve. that this the worst part of that Govt. that no negative on Treaties but one and that interference with Treaties, only for inns & outs\n\u2014\u2013Tory doctrine & not true, K. & Coms. both extort from order of Nobles\n\u2014\u2013best part of that Govt.\u2014if King by treaty as wth Hanovr. cd. bring troops into G. B.\n\u2014fatal to the Legisl: & to liberty.\n\u2014\u2013if no interference, for same reason as no negative\u2014Royal influence\n\u2014\u2013if to impeach & supplant\u2014execute Treaty first\u2014discuss it afterwards.\nOld Confederation\n\u2014Obscurity & irregularity\u2014its characters\n\u2014No specific investment of powers in States\n\u2014Supremacy over State laws, now specified, now over Congs.\n\u2014Unity of Govt. now\u2014then variety of Govts.\nCotemporary evidence\n\u2014heretofore demurred to as on\n   Mr. Coit Williams\n\u2014Bank\n\u2014Carriage tax\n\u2014suability of States\nBut ready to meet it\u2014Virga. Debates\n2 ideas\n\u2014Treaty power limited\n\u2014reference to British Model\nN. Carolina Debates\u2014p. 152\u2013153\nPena. do\u2014same illustration by Brit: Model\nThese explanatory, as well as alterative & inconsistent with idea of giving war &c. to P. & S.\nCase of Small States.\nHouse of Reps. less responsible &\n\u2014longer the power & fewer the hands more interest in it\u2014more object of foreign seduction\n\u2014\u2013tendency to encroachts. to be tested by\n\u2014foreign experience\u2014in popular\u2014in limited Govts\n\u2014domestic experience\n\u2014further opportunities & prospects.\nObjections\n1.\u2003If War Ex. prerogve. then three powers of war\n2.\u2003Treaty power extend to all powers of Congs\n3.\u2003Restrictions on Congs\u2014none on Treaties\n4.\u2003Case of appropriations the stronger\u2014as the check is reserved to the people, who can chuse new members\u2014every two years\u2014\nNot conceivable that people so jealous of the sword & the purse, shd. have intended to put both into the hands of P. & S.\u2014& make Congress\n\u2014the mere heralds to proclaim war\n\u2014the agents\u2014to recruit armies\n\u2014& the Cashiers, to pay out the money for them.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0182", "content": "Title: To James Madison from James Monroe, 24 March 1796\nFrom: Monroe, James\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nParis March 24. 1796.\nI have not recd. a line from you since June last altho\u2019 I have written you vols.:\nIn my last I communicated to you that this govt. had resolved to send an Envoy Extry. to the U. States to complain of our treaty &ca with Engld. & from wh. it had been diverted (if it is diverted as I presume it is) by my earnest representations agnst it, but that it was still dissatisfied & wod. complain in strong terms agnst several of our measures thro the ordinary channel. The publication of Mr. Rs: defense, the Presidents Speech, & the lately acquired possession of a letter from the president to G. Morris said to be of an extraordinary kind considering the parties gave a new stimulus to discontents that existed before. I have seen in this proceedure a prospect of the probable disunion of the two countries & labour\u2019d with the utmost efforts of wh. I was capable to prevent it, & I think with some effect. I have in consequence been led into a discussion with the minister of foreign affrs of Mr. Jay\u2019s treaty & of answering the objections of this govt. to it: a task you will readily admit not of a pleasant kind, but unavoidable in the place I hold. I hope my correspondence in this case, will not be published as was done in regard to the Jacobin Clubs, & every other part of it omitted. If it is done the highest injustice will be done me, & if the other parts are not called for by the H. of R. the omission will surprize me.\nI write you this in great haste & therefore cannot go into many details I otherwise wod. by the bearer who will deliver it in person. I have written the president the above incident respecting himself so that he knows it but I have added nothing to the communication.\nDr. Brokenborough will deliver this; a sensible young man & to whom I refer you for further intelligence.\nRemember me to our Senators, to Giles & other friends in the other house, Butler & Brown &ca in the senate to Beckley to whom I have written often lately.\nYou have clearly proved to the whole world that yr. virtue is impregnable agnst. a bribe in western lands. Whatever the calumnious may circulate in other respects, yet here you have demonstration on yr. sides.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0184", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Joseph Jones, 25 March 1796\nFrom: Jones, Joseph\nTo: Madison, James\nDr. Sr.\nFredg. 25th. Mar: 1796.\nThe day after my return I wrote you a few lines to let you know I was at home I shall in a few days be obliged to set out on the eastern circuit and shall not return untill between the 20th. and last of may. I shall reach Williamsburg the 28th. of April if not a day or two before where I shall remain abt. twelve days I shall be glad to hear from you at that place any material occurrence that may happen between the 1t. next month and my arrival there. If you commence abt. the 15 or 18 of the month they will get there by or before my arrival and any you may write afterwards to the middle of may or near it will meet me there as I shall return from the Eastern shore through Wmsburg. and Richmond. I was at Col. Madisons on my late journey, they were well\u2014he had got some clover seed from one Keyser none to be had here Richmond or Charlotte[s]ville. Mr. Jefferson was well and almost alone. Mr. Randolph and his Lady are in Richmond for the winter. I beg your attention to the affair of Pickering and also of Bache Monroe expected from the last person abt. 250 or 300 dols. on acct. advances to Paine\u2014he is paying int. for the money untill by paymt. it is stoped. Mr. Livingstons motion (tho\u2019 nothing more than usual and common and on the communication of the treaty to the house to be expected) has drawn into discussion a very important question wher. the treaty making power is paramount the Legislature for to that it goes \u27e8and\u27e9 if that is our situation our representatives had better return home and take care of their farms for they can be of little or no use to their constituents in Congress. I always feared the consequences of general expressions & undefined powers in the Executi\u27e8ve\u27e9 And judiciary branches which might by construction be made the cloak to cover bad and dangerous designs knowing too that even the best men in Office are but too apt to hold fast all they are generally allowed to have but to grapple as much more as they can cleverly get into their clutches\u2014the Governors or persons appointed to execute the government too generally think the gover[n]ment and people have separate interests and instead of making efforts to preserve the rights of the people are almost always aiming at encroachments and if the people oppose or complain of these attempts, the officers of government with insolence bawl out they want to break down or destroy the government to pull down the house they have taken the pains and trouble to erect they might as well say the people are all run mad and calling for knives to cut their own throa\u27e8ts.\u27e9 Let Governors stretch neither Laws or constitution and the people will honor and caress them. As far as I have seen the debates the Gent. who have supported the motion and opposed the unlimited power of the Executive in making Treaties have greatly the advantage of the argument and cannot I think fail to obtain a large majority\u2014still I do not conclude as a necessary consequence that an equal majority will appear in opposition to carrying the treaty into effect altho\u2019 much may be infered from the decision of Livingsto\u27e8n\u2019s\u27e9 motion. I find the papers lately come very irregularly sometim\u27e8es\u27e9 one or two mails withot any. Adieu. Yr. friend & Servt\nJos: Jon\u27e8es\u27e9\nI shall next post trouble you with Letters for Monroe & Joe.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0185", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Thomas Jefferson, 27 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Madison, James\nYours of the 13th. is recieved. I am enchanted with mr. Gallatin\u2019s speech in Bache\u2019s paper of Mar. 14. It is worthy of being printed at the end of the Federalist, as the only rational commentary on the part of the constitution to which it relates. Not that there may not be objections, and difficult ones, to it, and which I shall be glad to see his answers to: but if they are never answered, they are more easily to be gulped down than those which lie to the doctrines of his opponents, which do in fact annihilate the whole of the powers given by the constitution to the legislature. According to the rule established by usage & common sense of construing one part of the instrument by another, the objects on which the P. & S. may exclusively act by treaty are much reduced, but the field on which they may act, with the sanction of the legislature, is large enough: and I see no harm in rendering their sanction necessary, and not much harm in annihilating the whole treaty making power, except as to making peace. If you decide in favor of your right to refuse cooperation in any case of treaty, I should wonder on what occasion it is to be used, if not on one where the rights, the interest, the honor & faith of our nation are so grossly sacrificed, where a faction has entered into conspiracy with the enemies of their country to chain down the legislature at the feet of both; where the whole mass of your constituents have condemned this work in the most unequivocal manner, and are looking to you as their last hope to save them from the effects of the avarice & corruption of the first agent, the revolutionary machinations of others, and the incomprehensible acquiescensce of the only honest man who has assented to it. I wish that his honesty and his political errors may not furnish a second occasion to exclaim \u2018curse on his virtues, they\u2019ve undone his country.\u2019 Cold weather. Mercury 26. in the morning. Corn fallen at Richmond to 20/\u2014stationary here. Nicholas sure of his election. R. Jouett & Jo. Monroe in competition for the other vote of the county. Affections to mrs. M. & yourself. Adieu.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0187", "content": "Title: Impressed American Seamen, [28 March] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n   After the debate on 1 March, Livingston (New York) reported to the House on 14 March a bill for the relief and protection of American seamen. It was read twice and committed. The third reading of the bill began on 28 March with the blanks being filled to authorize an appropriation of $15,000 to pay the agents and to set the price of sailors\u2019 certificates at twenty-five cents (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\n          the United States \u2026 (42 vols.; Washington, 1834\u201356)., 4th Cong., 1st sess., 786, 802).\nMr. Madison wished every part of the present bill to be as free from objection as possible; nor could he discover any palpable deficiency in it. Its provisions, he believed, might be divided into three classes, viz. that which directs agents to be appointed; the next to seek redress, according to the Law of Nations, in behalf of American citizens; and also all other persons sailing under the American flag, conformably to the Law of Nations. If gentlemen recollect that the agents are only to take an account of all persons impressed, and make representations thereof from time to time to the President, it will be seen that they have nothing to do with expounding the Law of Nations in such cases. The Executive will have the opportunity, as he ought to have, of determining which are entitled to their protection and which are not entitled to it. With respect to neutral seamen, it appeared to him consistent with the Law of nations, and of great importance to the national interest, that they should be protected equally with their own citizens. It was before observed, that when war takes place in Europe, that the seamen of that country find their advantage in seeking employment in American vessels; therefore, if they meant to pursue their own interest, they would afford such men protection. And there was no ground to doubt that if a neutral seaman should be impressed from on board an American vessel, that an application for redress would be as likely to meet with success, as if he had been a native American. In the first place, no nation could have the pretence of a right to seize neutral seamen more than natives; in the next place they would be early distinguished from their own subjects, when Britain was the adverse party; and in the last place, an injury done to them, would not only be an injury done to the American nation, but also to the nation to which such seamen should belong. With respect to native Americans, and citizens before the year 1783, there can be no doubt of their being respected, provided they are furnished with proper certificates. It was true that it had never been avowed by Great Britain that she would impress American citizens from American vessels. Yet it was a fact that such had been impressed, when they have been without protections, as subjects of Great Britain. He understood that it had been insisted upon as an essential proof that the captain of a vessel shall make oath to the fact, which could not be done, in many cases. If, therefore, they could give to their seamen, any testimony which may secure them from violence, it was incumbent upon them to do so, and this bill did no more.\n   Claypoole\u2019s Am. Daily Advertiser, 7 Apr. 1796 (reprinted in Philadelphia Gazette, 7 Apr. 1796).\n   Continuing the debate, Coit (Connecticut) opposed the bill, declaring that it was unnecessary as the Constitution already gave the president the authority to appoint consuls and such agents as he thought necessary. He also argued that the standards of proof for the citizenship of American seamen were \u201ctoo loose\u201d (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\n          the United States \u2026 (42 vols.; Washington, 1834\u201356)., 4th Cong., 1st sess., 812).\nMr. Madison observed, that the gentleman from Connecticut seemed to think the present measure cast a reflection upon the executive. He could by no means think so. He said the executive had the power, by the constitution, of appointing ambassadors, other public ministers, and consuls; but the agents proposed to be appointed in this bill were neither ambassadors, public ministers, or consuls; they would have no rank as public characters, but be mere agents to do the business mentioned in the act; that they were not consuls was plain, because they were sent to do business which it was said the consuls had neglected to do. Again, he would remark, that although the President had the power to appoint ambassadors, other public ministers and consuls, the constitution required that the Senate should approve such appointments. But, with respect to agents, the case was different. The President appointed one agent to send to the West Indies, without that consent. He supposed, therefore, that that appointment was founded on some law relative to intercourse with foreign nations; he supposed, if the power was not so derived, it had been inaccurately exercised. If agents were to be employed, the offices, he said should be created by them, money appropriated, and left to be filled by the executive.\n   Claypoole\u2019s Am. Daily Advertiser, 7 Apr. 1796 (reprinted in Philadelphia Gazette, 8 Apr. 1796).\n   After a motion to recommit the bill failed, it passed the House on 28 Mar. by 77 to 13, with JM voting in the majority. The Senate, on 20 Apr., tried to amend the bill but finally accepted the House version on 24 May. The president signed \u201cAn Act for the relief and protection of American seamen\u201d on 28 May (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\n          the United States \u2026 (42 vols.; Washington, 1834\u201356)., 4th Cong., 1st sess., 820, 1095, 1114, 1294, 1423; JHRJournal of the House of Representatives of\n          the United States (9 vols.; Washington, 1826)., 2:518, 519, 535, 536, 567, 574, 575, 579, 586; U.S. Statutes at LargeThe Public Statutes at Large of the United", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0188", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Joseph Jones, 28 March 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jones, Joseph\nLetter not found. 28 March 1796. Acknowledged in Jones to JM, 26 Apr. 1796. Probably encloses accounts of House debate on Livingston\u2019s motion calling for Jay\u2019s papers.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0189", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Joseph Jones, 30 March 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jones, Joseph\nLetter not found. 30 March 1796. Acknowledged in Jones to JM, 26 Apr. 1796. Informs Jones of Washington\u2019s rejection of the House call for Jay\u2019s papers.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0191", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 4 April 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhilada. April 4. 1796\nI have recd. yours of the 6th. Ult; also your letters for Monroe, Mazzei & Van Staphorsts; & shall have a good conveyance for them in two or three days. I am in some doubt however whether it may not be best to detain those for Mazzei & V. untill you can add the information I am now able to furnish you from Dohrman. He has at length closed the business of Mazzei in a just & honorable manner, by allowing the N. Y. damages on the bills of 20 PerCt. & the N Y. rate of interest, of 7 PerCt. This mode of settlement after deducting the partial payments for which he has receipts, leaves a balance of 3087 dollars, which has been just paid into my hands, and will be disposed of as you shall direct. You will of course lose no time in writing to me on the subject.\nI have not yet heard from Bringhurst on the subject of Sharpless. He has no doubt written to you, according to his promise. I have seen Mr. Howell, who says there would be no difficulty in allowing you the credit you desire, if his son shd. take the place of Lownes.\nI was not unaware of the considerations you suggest with regard to the post roads; but do not consider my proposition as involving any dangerous consequences. It is limited to the choice of roads where that is presented, & to the opening them, in other cases, so far only as may be necessary for the transportation of the mail. This I think fairly within the object of the Constn. It had, in fact, become essential that something shd. be done, & something would have been attempted, on a worse principle. If the route shall be once fixt for the post road, the local authorities will probably undertake the improvement &c of the roads; & individuals will go to work in providing the proper accomodations on them for general use.\nThe Newspapers will inform you that the call for the Treaty papers was carried by 62 agst. 37. You will find the answer of the President herewith inclosed. The absolute refusal was as unexpected, as the tone & tenor of the message, are improper & indelicate. If you do not at once perceive the drift of the appeal to the Genl. Convention & its journal, recollect one of Camillus\u2019s last numbers, & read the latter part of Murray\u2019s speech. There is little doubt in my mind that the message came from N. Y. where it was seen that an experiment was to be made at the hazard of the P. to save the faction agst. the Reps. of the people. The effect of this reprehensible measure on the majority is not likely to correspond with the calculation of its authors. I think there will be sufficient firmness to face it with resolutions declaring the Const:l. powers of the House as to Treaties, and that in applying for papers, they are not obliged to state their reasons to the Executive. In order to preserve this firmness however, it is necessary to avoid as much as possible an overt rencontre with the Executive. The day after the message was recd. the bill guarantying the loan for the federal City, was carried thro\u2019 the H. of Reps. by a swimming majority.\nI have letters from Monroe of the 12 & 20 Jany. The Truce with Austria was demanded by the latter, & was not likely to be renewed. A continuance of the war with England was counted on. The French Govt. was in regular & vigorous operation, & gaining daily more & more of the public confidence. A forced loan was going on for 25 Mil: sterlg, 12 Mil of wch. was receivable in Assignats at 100 for one; the balance in specie & produce. It is said that the British armament for the West Indies had suffered a third Coup de Vent, after leaving the channel, a third time.\nAccording to my memory & that of others, the Journal of the Convention was by a vote deposited with the P. to be kept sacred untill called for by some competent authority. How can this be reconciled with the use he has made of it? Examine my notes if you please at the close of the business, & let me know what is said on the subject. You will perceive that the quotation is nothing to the purpose. Most of the majority wd. decide as the Convention did\u2014because they think there may be some Treaties as a Mere Treaty of peace that would not require the Legislative power\u2014a ratification by law also expresses a different idea from that entertained by the House of its Agency. Adieu.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0192", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Robert Gamble, 4 April 1796\nFrom: Gamble, Robert\nTo: Madison, James\nDear sir\nRichmond April 4: 1796\nI herewith enclose a letter for Mrs. Payne as the most certain mode of her getting it safe. I thank you for your kindness in putting under Cover, two Newspapers of the 23rd: ulto. which Came safe to hand. The qualified amendment you made to Livingstons resolution, I observe has passed the house by a large Majority. The resolution as it first was offered, was, extremely objectionable. The president, will no doubt, lay such information before Congress as will preclude the pretext of noncompliance for want of information. But the qualification of your amendment c\u27e8ou\u27e9ld, only make such a requisition Constitutional. Two thirds of the senate Concurring, was in that respect a constitutional representation of the sovereign States. I am sorry to discover Warmth in the debates. Yet I am sanguine in hoping that Zeal however well meant, will not prevent the essentials to carry the treaty into effect. Pardon the hasty observations. I am Dear sir your obt Hum st\nRo. Gamble", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0193", "content": "Title: Northwestern Land Offices, [5 April] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n   After JM had spoken on 3 March, a Committee of the Whole rejected Williams\u2019s resolution and continued its debate the next day. An amended bill was sent to the House, which returned it to a select committee. The chairman, Smith (South Carolina), reported a new bill on 28 March, which provided for rectangular surveys six miles square, for the sale of one-half of the townships in lots three miles square and of the remaining half in lots of 640 acres, and for the use of military and land warrants in purchasing one-seventh part of any land. Discussion in a Committee of the Whole began on 5 April with Williams (New York) moving that this last clause be struck out. He was supported by Dayton (New Jersey) who preferred that separate tracts of land be set aside for purchases with military land warrants. The clause was struck out, but Crabb (Maryland) then moved an amendment that half of the 640-acre lots be sold in lots of 160 acres each (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\nMr. Madison was sorry to add any observations upon the subject, after what had fallen from the gentleman from New Jersey; but he thought the arguments which had been used in favour of the proposed amendment had great weight. If the lots of one mile square could be easily divided into four, which it appeared to him they might, he could see no reasonable objection to the measure; for, if it would accomodate any number of real occupiers, it was desirable that it should be done. The expence of exploring the country had been urged as an objection; but it occurred to him that a number of persons would go and explore the country without an intention of returning, and consequently the expence of their journey could be reckoned as nothing. Whether so large a portion of the country as gentlemen expected would be settled in this way, he should doubt; but still, he thought attention was due to them. And he found this to be the opinion of men who lived in that part of the country, and was conversant in the business of dividing and selling lands. He was not sure whether the amendment was worded in the best way possible.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0194", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Joseph Habersham, 6 April 1796\nFrom: Habersham, Joseph\nTo: Madison, James\nSir\nGeneral Post Office Philadela. April 6th. 1796.\nI beg leave to offer a few observations to the Committee of which you are Chairman on the resolution of the House of Representatives for surveying and establishing a Main Post Road through the United States.\nThis route in my opinion should not be too particularly described for the following reasons.\nThe principal Towns in the respective States through which the Post must be conveyed may be easily ascertained, but in many instances where there are two or more routes between those Towns, accurate surveys must be made, and the best information obtained before it can be determined which route is to be prefered. Through some of the Southern States particularly it is at least doubtfull whether the present main post road might not be altered to great advantage.\nThe Main Post route as at present contemplated may commence at Wiscasset in Maine and terminate at Savannah in Georgia. If extended further in a Southern or Eastern direction the route will pass through a New Country intersected with Rivers or full of Bays & Harbours where the difficulty and expence of making roads will be immense. The following route is recommended to the Committee for the Main Post road. From Wiscasset in Maine through Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Richmond, Raleigh, Columbia and Louisville to Savannah in Georgia. The liberal establishment of Post roads through this widely extended continent appears to be at present commensurate to most purposes of public and private intercourse. Those roads now comprehend upwards of Fourteen thousand Miles, by which not only the Citizens of all the populous Towns but of large portions of new districts of Country are accomodated with the public Mails.\nThe next most important object is to secure an expeditious and regular conveyance of the Mails through the United states.\nFailures on the cross Post roads are attended with little or no inconvenience, but when they happen on the Main line the consequences of them are extensively felt, to guard against them it will be necessary to erect bridges in many places and to improve the state of the roads in general. The surplusage revenue of the Post Office if appropriated for this purpose and aided by private subscriptions will in all probability compleat a Turnpike Road of very considerable extent in the course of a few years. If countenanced by the Government individuals will no doubt be induced to lend their aid with spirit in different parts of the Union to accomplish an object of such great national importance. I have the honour to be &c.\nJ. H.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0195", "content": "Title: Jay\u2019s Treaty, [6 April] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n   On 31 March, the day after Washington had rejected the call for Jay\u2019s instructions and papers, Blount (North Carolina) moved that the president\u2019s message be referred to a Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union. He wished to allow the House to record on its journals its reasons for seeking Jay\u2019s papers. JM then voted with a majority of 55 to 37 in favor of the motion and did so again on 6 April in a majority of 57 to 26, after opponents had tried to delay the debate. In the Committee of the Whole, Blount proposed two further resolutions to the effect that while the House claimed no treaty-making powers, it did have a right to deliberate and act if the execution of a treaty required legislation; and that the House did not have to state reasons to the president in seeking information from him (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\n          the United States \u2026 (42 vols.; Washington, 1834\u201356)., 4th Cong., 1st sess., 760, 762, 768\u201369, 770\u201372). JM then spoke.\nWhen the message was first proposed to be committed, the proposition had been treated by some gentlemen not only with levity, but with ridicule. He persuaded himself that the subject would appear in a very different light to the committee; and he hoped that it would be discussed on both sides, without either levity, intemperance or illiberality.\nIf there were any question which could make a serious appeal to the dispassionate judgement, it must be one which respected the meaning of the constitution; and if any constitutional question could, make the appeal with peculiar solemnity, it must be in a case like the present, where two of the constituted authorities interpreted differently the extent of their respective powers.\nIt was a consolation however, of which every member would be sensible, to reflect on the happy difference of our situation, on such occurrences, from that of governments, in which the constituent members possessed independent and hereditary prerogatives. In such governments, the parties having a personal interest in their public stations, and being not amenable to the national will, disputes concerning the limits of their respective authorities, might be productive of the most fatal consequences. With us, on the contrary, although disputes of that kind are always to be regretted, there were three most precious resources, against the evil tendency of them. In the first place, the responsibility which every department feels to the public will, under the forms of the constitution, may be expected to prevent the excesses incident to conflicts between rival and unresponsible authorities. In the next place, if the difference cannot be adjusted by friendly conference and mutual concession, the sense of the constituent body, brought into the government through the ordinary elective channels, may supply a remedy. And if this resource should fail, there remains in the third and last place, that provident article in the constitution itself, by which an avenue is always open to the sovereignty of the People for explanations or amendments as they might be found indispensable.\nIf, in the present instance, it was to be particularly regretted, that the existing difference of opinion had arisen; every motive to the regret, was a motive to calmness, to candor, and the most respectful delicacy towards the other constituted authority. On the other hand, the duty which the House of Representatives must feel to themselves and to their constituents, required that they should examine the subject with accuracy, as well as with candor, and decide on it with firmness, as well as with moderation.\nIn this temper he should proceed to make some observations on the message before the committee, and on the reasons contained in it.\nThe message related to two points: first, the application made for the papers; secondly the constitutional rights of Congress and of the House of Representatives, on the subject of treaties.\nOn the first point, he observed that the right of the house to apply for any information they might want, had been admitted by a number in the minority, who had opposed the exercise of the right in this particular case. He thought it clear that the house must have a right, in all cases, to ask for information, which might assist their deliberations on subjects submitted to them by the constitution; being responsible nevertheless for the propriety of the measure. He was as ready to admit, that the executive had a right under a due responsibility also, to withhold information, when of a nature that did not permit a disclosure of it at the time. And if the refusal of the President had been founded simply on a representation, that the state of the business within his department, and the contents of the Papers asked for, required it, although he might have regretted the refusal, he should have been little disposed to criticize it. But the message had contested what appeared to him a clear and important right of the house; and stated reasons for refusing the papers, which, with all the respect he could feel for the executive, he could not regard as satisfactory or proper.\nOne of the reasons, was, that it did not occur to the executive that the papers could be relative to any purpose under the cognizance, and in the contemplation of the house: The other was, that the purpose for which they were wanted, was not expressed in the resolution of the house.\nWith respect to the first, it implied that the executive was not only to judge of the proper objects and functions of the executive department; but also of the objects and functions of the house. He was not only to decide how far the executive trust would permit a disclosure of information; but how far the legislative trust could derive advantage from it. It belonged, he said, to each department to judge for itself.\nIf the executive conceived that in relation to his own department, papers could not be safely communicated, he might on that ground refuse them, because he was the competent though a responsible judge within his own department. If the papers could be communicated, without injury to the objects of his department, he ought not to refuse them as irrelative to the objects of the House of Representatives, because the House was in such cases the only proper judge of its own objects.\nThe other reason of refusal was, that the use which the house meant to make of the papers, was not expressed in the resolution.\nAs far as he could recollect, no precedent could be found in the records of the house, or elsewhere, in which the particular object in calling for information was expressed in the call. It was not only contrary to right to require this; but it would often be improper in the house, to express the object. In the particular case of an impeachment referred to in the message it might be evidently improper to state that to be the object of information which might possibly lead to it, because it would involve the preposterous idea of first determining to impeach, and then enquiring whether an impeachment ought to take place. Even the holding out an impeachment as a contemplated or contingent result of the information called for, might be extremely disagreeable in practice, as it might inflict a temporary pain on an individual, whom an investigation of facts might prove to be innocent, and perhaps meritorious.\nFrom this view of the subject he could not forbear wishing that, if the papers were to be refused, other reasons had been assigned for it. He thought the resolutions offered by the gentleman from North Carolina, one of which related to this subject, ought to stand on the Journal along with the message which had been entered there. Both the resolutions were penned with moderation and propriety. They went no farther than to assert the rights of the house; they courted no reply; and it ought not to be supposed they could give any offence.\nThe second object to which the message related, was the constitutional power of the house on the subject of treaties.\nHere again he hoped it might be allowable to wish, that it had not been deemed necessary to take up, in so solemn a manner, a great constitutional question, which was not contained in the resolution presented by the house, which had been incidental only to the discussion of that resolution and which could only have been brought into view through the inauthentic medium of the newspapers. This however, would well account for the misconception which had taken place as to the doctrine maintained by the majority in the late question. It had been understood by the executive, that the house asserted its assent to be necessary to the validity of treaties. This was not the doctrine maintained by them. It was, he believed, fairly laid down in the resolution proposed, which limited the power of the house over treaties, to cases where treaties embraced legislative subjects, submitted by the constitution, to the power of the house.\nMr. M. did not mean to go into the general merits of this question as discussed when the former resolution was before the committee. The message did not require it; having drawn none of its reasoning from the text of the constitution. It had merely affirmed that the power of making treaties is exclusively vested by the constitution in the President, by and with the consent of the Senate. Nothing more was necessary on this point, than to observe that the constitution had, as expressly and exclusively vested in Congress, the power of making laws, as it had vested in the President and Senate the power of making treaties.\nHe proceeded to review the several topics on which the message relied: First, the intentions of the body which framed the constitution; Secondly, the opinions of the state conventions who adopted it; Thirdly, the peculiar rights and interests of the smaller states; Fourthly, the manner in which the constitution had been understood by the executive and the foreign nations, with which treaties had been formed; Fifthly, the acquiescence and acts of the house on former occasions.\n1. When the members on the floor, who were members of the general convention, particularly a member from Georgia and himself, were called on in a former debate, for the sense of that body on the constitutional question, it was a matter of some surprize; which was much increased by the peculiar stress laid on the information expected. He acknowledged his surprise also at seeing the message of the executive appealing to the same proceedings in the general convention, as a clue to the meaning of the constitution.\nIt had been his purpose during the late debate to make some observations on what had fallen from the gentlemen from Connecticut and Maryland, if the sudden termination of the debate had not cut him off, from the opportunity. He should have reminded them, that this was the ninth year, since the convention executed their trust, and that he had not a single note in this place, to assist his memory. He should have remarked that neither himself nor the other members who had belonged to the federal convention, could be under any particular obligation to rise in answer to a few gentlemen, with information not merely of their own ideas at that period, but of the intention of the whole body: many members of which too had probably never entered into the discussions of the subject. He might have further remarked that there would be the more delicacy in the undertaking, as it appeared that a sense had been put on the constitution by some who were members of the convention, different from that which must have been entertained by others, who had concurred in ratifying the treaty. After taking notice of the doctrine (of Judge Wilson, who was a member of the federal convention, as quoted by Mr. Gallatin) from the Pennsylvania debates; he proceeded to mention that three gentlemen who had been members of the convention were parties to the proceedings in Charleston, S.C. which among other objections to the treaty, represented it as violating the constitution. That the very respectable citizen, who presided at the meeting in Wilmington, whose resolutions made a similar complaint, had also been a distinguished member of the body that formed the constitution. It would have been proper for him also to have recollected what had, on a former occasion, happened to himself during a debate in the house of representatives. When the bill for establishing a national bank was under consideration, he had opposed it as not warranted by the constitution, and incidentally remarked that his impression might be stronger, as he remembered that in the convention, a motion was made and negatived for giving Congress a power to grant charters of incorporation. This slight reference to the convention, he said was animadverted on by several in the course of the debate, and particularly by a gentleman from Massachusetts, who had himself been a member of the convention, and whose remarks were not unworthy the attention of the committee. Here Mr. M. read a paragraph in Mr. Gerry\u2019s speech, from the Gazette of the United States, p. 814, protesting in strong terms, against arguments drawn from that source.\nMr. M. said he did not believe a single instance could be cited in which the sense of the convention had been required or admitted as material, in any constitutional question. In the case of the bank, the committee had seen how a glance at that authority had been treated in this house. When the question on the suability of the states was depending on the supreme court, he asked whether it had ever been understood that the members of the bench who had been members of the convention, were called on for the meaning of the convention on that very important point; although no constitutional question would be presumed more susceptible of elucidation from that source.\nHe then adverted to that part of the message which contained an extract from the journal of the convention, shewing that a proposition \u201cthat no treaty should be binding on the United States, which was not ratified by law,\u201d was explicitly rejected. He allowed this to be much more precise than any evidence drawn from the debates in the convention, or resting on the memory of individuals. But admitting the case to be as stated, of which he had no doubt, altho\u2019 he had no recollection of it; and admitting the record of the convention to be the oracle that ought to decide the true meaning of the constitution, what did this abstract vote amount to? Did it condemn the doctrine of the majority? So far from it, that as he understood their doctrine, they must have voted as the convention did: For they do not contend that no treaty shall be operative without a law to sanction it; on the contrary they admit that some treaties will operate without this sanction; and that it is no further applicable in any case, than where legislative objects are embraced by treaties. The term ratify also deserved some attention, for altho\u2019 of loose signification in general, it had a technical meaning different from the agency claimed by the house on the subject of treaties.\nBut, after all, whatever veneration might be entertained for the body of men who formed our constitution, the sense of that body could never be regarded as the oracular guide in the expounding the constitution. As the instrument came from them, it was nothing more than the draught of a plan, nothing but a dead letter, until life and validity were breathed into it, by the voice of the people, speaking through the several state conventions. If we were to look therefore, for the meaning of the instrument, beyond the face of the instrument, we must look for it not in the general convention, which proposed, but in the state conventions, which accepted and ratified the constitution. To these also the message had referred, and it would be proper to follow it.\n2. The debates of the conventions in three states, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and N. Carolina, had been before introduced into the discussion of this subject, and were he believed the only publications of the sort which contained any lights with respect to it. He would not fatigue the committee with a repetition of the passages then read to them. He would only appeal to the committee to decide whether it did not appear from a candid and collected view of the debates in those conventions, and particularly in that of Virginia that the treaty making power was a limited power; and that the powers in our constitution, on this subject, bore an analogy to the powers on the same subject, in the government of G. Britain. He wished as little as any member could, to extend the analogies between the two governments. But it was clear that the constituent parts of two governments might be perfectly heterogenous, and yet the powers be similar. At once to illustrate his meaning, and give a brief reply to some arguments on the other side, which had heretofore been urged with ingenuity and learning, he would mention as an example, the power of pardoning offences. This power was vested in the President. It was a prerogative also of the British king. And in order to ascertain the extent of the compound and technical term \u201cpardon\u201d in our constitution; it would not be irregular to search into the meaning and exercise of the power in Great Britain; yet where is the general analogy between an hereditary sovereign, not accountable for his conduct, and a magistrate, like the President of the United States, elected for four years, with limited powers, and liable to impeachment for the abuse of them.\nIn referring to the debates of the state conventions as published, he wished not to be understood as putting entire confidence in the accuracy of them. Even those of Virginia which had been probably taken down by the most skilful hand, (whose merit he wished by no means to disparage) contained internal evidences in abundance of chasms, and misconceptions of what was said.\nThe amendments proposed by the several conventions, were better authority and would be found on a general view to favour the sense of the constitution which had prevailed in this house. But even here it would not be reasonable to expect a perfect precision and system in all their votes and proceedings. The agitations of the public mind on that occasion, with the hurry and compromise which generally prevailed in settling the amendments to be proposed, would at once explain and apologize for the several apparent inconsistencies which might be discovered. He would not undertake to say that the particular amendment referred to in the message by which two states required that \u201cno commercial treaty should be ratified without the consent of two thirds of the whole number of Senators; and that no territorial rights &c. should be ceded without the consent of three fourths of the members of both houses\u201d was digested with an accurate attention to the whole subject. On the other hand it was no proof that those particular conventions in annexing these guards to the treaty power understood it as different from that espoused by the majority of the house. They might consider Congress as having the power contended for over treaties stipulating on Legislative subjects, and still very consistently wish for the amendment they proposed. They might not consider the territorial rights and other objects for which they required the concurrence of three fourths of the members of both houses, as coming within any of the enumerated powers of Congress, and therefore as not protected by that control over treaties. And although they might be sensible that commercial treaties were under that controul, yet as they would always come before Congress with great weight after they passed through the regular forms and sanctions of the treaty department, it might be deemed of real importance that the authority should be better guarded which was to give that weight to them. He asked whether it might not happen, even in the progress of a treaty through the treaty department, that each succeeding sanction might be given, more on account of preceding sanctions than of any positive approbation? And no one could doubt therefore that a treaty which had received all these sanctions would be controuled with great reluctance by the Legislature; and consequently that it might be desirable to strengthen the barriers against making improper treaties, rather than trust too much to the Legislative controul over carrying them into effect.\nBut said Mr. M. it will be proper to attend to other amendments proposed by the ratifying conventions, which may throw light on their opinions and intentions on the subject in question. He then read from the Declaration of Rights proposed by Virginia to be prefixed to the constitution, the 7th article as follows.\n\u201cThat all power of suspending laws, or the execution of laws by any authority without the consent of the Representatives of the people in the Legislature, is injurious to their rights, and ought not to be exercised.\u201d\nThe convention of North Carolina, as he shewed, had laid down the same principle in the same words. And it was to be observed that in both conventions, the article was under the head of a Declaration of Rights, \u201casserting and securing from encroachment the essential and inalienable rights of the people\u201d according to the language of the Virginia convention; and \u201casserting and securing from encroachment the great principles of civil and religious liberty, and the inalienable rights of the people\u201d as expressed by the convention of North Carolina. It must follow, that these two conventions considered it as a fundamental and inviolable and universal principle in free governments, that no power could supercede a law without the consent of the Representatives of the people in the Legislature.\nIn the Maryland convention also, it was among the amendments proposed, tho\u2019 he believed not decided on, \u201cthat no power of suspending laws, or the execution of laws, unless derived from the Legislature, ought to be exercised or allowed.\u201d\nThe convention of North Carolina had further explained themselves on this point, by their 23d amendment proposed to the constitution, in the following words, \u201cThat no treaties which shall be directly opposed to the existing laws of the United States in Congress assembled, shall be valid until such laws shall be repealed, or made conformable to such treaty; nor shall any treaty be valid which is contradictory to the constitution of the United States.\u201d\nThe latter part of the amendment, was an evidence that the amendment was intended to ascertain, rather than to alter the meaning of the constitution; as it could not be supposed to have been the real intention of the constitution that a treaty contrary to it should be valid.\nHe proceeded to read the following amendments accompanying the ratifications of state conventions.\nThe N. York convention had proposed,\n\u201cThat no standing army or regular troops shall be raised or kept up in time of peace without the consent of two thirds of the Senators and Representatives in each house.\u201d\n\u201cThat no money be borrowed on the credit of the United States without the assent of two thirds of the Senators and Representatives in each house.\u201d\n\u201cThat the Congress shall not declare war without the concurrence of two thirds of the Senators and Representatives present in each house.\u201d\nThe N. Hampshire convention had proposed,\n\u201cThat no standing army shall be kept up in time of peace unless with the consent of three quarters of the members of each branch of Congress.\u201d In the Maryland convention a proposition was made in the same words.\nThe Virginia convention had proposed,\n\u201cThat no navigation law, or law regulating commerce shall be passed without the consent of two thirds of the members present in both houses.\u201d\n\u201cThat no standing army or regular troops shall be raised or kept up in time of peace, without the consent of two thirds of the members present in both houses.\u201d\n\u201cThat no soldier shall be enlisted for any longer term than four years, except in time of war, and then for no longer term than the continuance of the war.\u201d\nThe convention of N. Carolina had proposed the same three amendments in the same words.\nOn a review of these proceedings may not, said he, the question be fairly asked, whether it ought to be supposed that the several conventions, who shewed so much jealousy with respect to the powers of commerce, of the sword, and of the purse, as to require for the exercise of them, in some cases two thirds, in others three fourths, of both branches of the Legislature, could have understood that by the treaty clauses in the constitution they had given to the President and Senate, without any controul whatever from the House of Representatives, an absolute and unlimited power over all those great objects?\n3. It was with great reluctance, he said, that he should touch on the third topic, the alledged interest of the smaller states in the present question. He was the more unwilling to enter into this delicate part of the discussion, as he happened to be from a state which was in one of the extremes in point of size. He should limit himself therefore to two observations. The first was, that if the spirit of amity and mutual concession from which the constitution resulted, was to be consulted on expounding it, that construction ought to be favoured, which would preserve the mutual controul between the Senate and the House of Representatives, rather than that which gave powers to the Senate not controulable by, and paramount over those of the House of Representatives, whilst the House of Representatives could in no instance exercise their powers without the participation and controul of the Senate. The second observation was that whatever jealousy might have unhappily prevailed between the smaller and larger states, as they had most weight in one or other branch of the government, it was a fact, for which he appealed to the journals of the old congress from its birth to its dissolution, and to those of the Congress under the present government, that in no instance would it appear from the yeas and nays, that a question had been decided by a division of the votes according to the size of the States. He considered this truth as worthy of the most pleasing and consoling reflection, and as one that ought to have the most conciliating and happy influence on the temper of all the states.\n4. A fourth argument in the message was drawn from the manner by which the treaty power had been understood in both parties in the negociations with foreign powers. \u201cIn all the treaties made we have declared and they have believed, &c.\u201d By we, he remarked, was to be understood, the executive alone who had made the declaration, and in no respect, the House of Representatives. It was certainly to be regretted as had often been expressed that different branches of the government should disagree in the construction of their powers; but when this could not be avoided, each branch must judge for itself; and the judgment of the executive could in this case be no more an authority overruling the judgment of the house, than the judgment of the house, could be an authority overruling that of the executive. It was also to be regretted, that any foreign nation should at any time proceed under a misconception of the meaning of our constitution. But no principle was better established in the law of nations, as well as in common reason, than that one nation is not to be the interpreter of the constitution of another. Each nation must adjust the forms and operation of its own government: and all others are bound to understand them accordingly. It had before been remarked, and it would be proper to repeat here, that of all nations Great Britain would be least likely to object to this principle, because the construction given to our government, was particularly exemplified in her own.\n5. In the fifth and last place, he had to take notice of the suggestion that every House of Representatives had concurred in the construction of the treaty power, now maintained by the Executive; from which it followed, that the House could not now consistently act under a different construction. On this point it might be sufficient to remark, that this was the first instance in which a foreign treaty had been made, since the establishment of the constitution; and that this was the first time the treaty making power had come under formal and accurate discussion. Precedents therefore, would readily be seen to lose much of their weight. But whether the precedents found in the proceedings preparatory to the Algerine treaty, or in the provisions relative to the Indian treaties, were inconsistent with the right which had been contended for in behalf of the House, he should leave to be decided by the committee. A view of these precedents had been pretty fully presented to them by a gentleman from New York (Mr. Livingston) with all the observations which the subject seemed to require.\nOn the whole, it appeared that the rights of the House on two great constitutional points, had been denied by a high authority in the message before the committee. This message was entered on the journals of the House. If nothing was entered in opposition thereto; it would be inferred that the reasons in the message had changed the opinion of the House, and that their claims on those great points were relinquished. It was proper therefore that the questions, brought fairly before the committee in the propositions of the gentleman (Mr. Blount) from North Carolina, should be examined and formally decided. If the reasoning of the message should be deemed satisfactory, it would be the duty of this branch of the government to reject the propositions, and thus accede to the doctrines asserted by the Executive: If on the other hand this reasoning should not be satisfactory, it would be equally the duty of the House, in some such firm, but very decent terms, as are proposed, to enter their opinions on record. In either way, the meaning of the constitution would be established, as far as depends on a vote of the House of Representatives.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0197", "content": "Title: Naval Armament, [7 April] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n   By the law of 27 March 1794 Congress had authorized the president to construct six frigates during difficulties with the Algerine pirates, with the proviso that peace would terminate any proceedings under the law. On 15 March 1796 Washington informed both houses of Congress that although a peace had been concluded with Algiers, he wished the legislature to reconsider the suspension of all naval construction. The Senate, on 23 March, responded with a bill allowing for the completion of three frigates, but the House, as early as 29 January, had received a report calling for only two frigates, with the remainder of the 1794 appropriation to be applied to reducing the national debt. The House considered the Senate bill in a Committee of the Whole on 7 April, with Smith (South Carolina) moving for the completion of six frigates and Bourne (Rhode Island) supporting the Senate bill (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\nMr. Madison said he was one of those who set great value upon marine strength, and would not, therefore, object to any prudent and proper means of supporting it. But it did not appear to him when the frigates were originally authorized by law to be built, that they would be sufficient to answer the purpose for which they were said to be intended. This opinion had undergone no change. It had been said that the law of Congress for building the frigates had had considerable influence in obtaining the late peace with Algiers; but, judging from the amount of money paid for it, he must be induced to believe that the pecuniary provision alone, and not the naval one, had brought about that event. At present, the subject seemed to present itself under different circumstances from those in which it was formerly placed. A new object was presented to their consideration. It was now said to be desirable to employ some of those vessels on the coast, as a defence against pirates and privateers, and not send them to a distant sea, to effect an object to which they would be inadequate. Under this consideration, he did not say that it would be improper to agree to the bill, nor did he wish to show a want of means to build such vessels as might be necessary for the security of our coasts. On the other hand, he did not wish to determine that the frigates should all be completed, so as to add unnecessarily to our present expenditures. The farthest he could go at present was, to agree that the three frigates most advanced, should be finished; and that a final decision as to the others should at least be postponed, until they had gone into the subject of the finances.\nThere was a modification which would be necessary in the bill. He did not think that if the building of the three remaining frigates was left to the discretion of the President, that it would be proper to give him the unlimited discretion proposed by the Senate. He might let the frigates lie over 20 years, and then build them. This was a question proper for legislative decision; or, if they parted with it at all, it should be for a limited period of two or three years. This was a motion, however, which could not be made at present, he only remarked upon it for consideration.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0198", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Thomas Southcomb, 8 April 1796\nFrom: Southcomb, Thomas\nTo: Madison, James\nSir.\nFredericksburg April 8th. 1796\nAbout two months Since Mr. Jones of this Town informed me, you would pay Messrs. Philips Cramond, & Co: in Philadelphia, for my benefit, Some Cash on account of two Bonds, I hold of Mr. Munro\u2019s in Paris. I have received a Letter from those Gentlemen dated the 8th. march they mention nothing of it in their Letter. I Should not have taken this Liberty of troubling you; but on my return from Richmond where I have been for Some time, I found Mr. Jones was gone up the Country, and would not return, for 6 weeks or 2 months. I Shall esteem it a particular favour; if you will inform me; if any monies has been paid, or likely Soon to be, and to what amount. I am Sir with due respect your most obedient Humble St.\nThos: Southcomb", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0199", "content": "Title: Naval Armament, [8 April] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n   The House continued the debate from 7 April. The motion to build six frigates was rejected 36 to 55, with JM voting in the majority. Smith (South Carolina) then proposed a subsidy for merchants to construct vessels more easily convertible to privateering in wartime (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\n          the United States \u2026 (42 vols.; Washington, 1834\u201356)., 4th Cong., 1st sess., 886\u201387).\nMr. Madison thought there were many strong objections to the present measure. In the first place, he conceived with the gentleman from Massachusetts, that it would not be easy to construct vessels so as to make them easily convertible into vessels of war, without sacrificing the \u0153conomy of navigation. A vessel built in such a manner, at the same expense, would not carry the same cargo. The amendment itself seemed to contemplate this, by offering a bounty. A question would arise, whether the bounty given, would be equal to the loss with respect to the construction to the merchant, or whether it would not be a greater expence to government than the advantage which could be derived from the measure would warrant. It would be going into a plan in time of peace that would constantly keep war in view. He objected to the immense discretion proposed to be vested in custom-house officers; it would be a great discretion to be placed any where. A gentleman had mentioned Virginia packet boats as best fitted for war and trade. If so, he said they would recommend themselves. All that remained was to make the advantage evident. The subject was new, and it could hardly be supposed that such a measure could be decided upon immediately. It would be best to lay the proposal on the table.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0200", "content": "Title: Indian Intercourse Bill, [9 April] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n   In response to problems arising from the 1795 treaty of Greenville and raids by Tennessee settlers on the Cherokee nation in 1791 and 1793, Smith (South Carolina) moved, on 10 December 1795, that the House make further provision to secure the frontiers and to protect Indians from unlawful attack. A bill reported on 25 January 1796 attempted to define in law an Indian boundary, penalized settlers for unlawfully trading with Indians or encroaching on their lands, and authorized the president to appoint agents to reside among the Indians. This bill was discussed, recommitted, and reported back to the House between 2 and 24 February, before debate began again on 8 April over the penalty clause which enacted a forfeiture of any right to preempt Indian land for violation of the law. Several members then questioned whether this clause conflicted with the provision of the Constitution limiting forfeitures to the life of the person attainted (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\nMr. Madison said it was not necessary to investigate the Indian mode of occupancy in opposition to that of civilized society. The natives are understood by the nations of Europe possessing territories on this continent, to have a qualified property only in the land. If they had an unqualified title they could not be prevented from ceding to foreigners their lands lying within the limits of the United States. In that point of view, he thought the doctrine of the gentleman last up particularly objectionable. He thought the clause of the constitution which had been referred to, was worthy of attention. There could be no doubt, when the constitution forbid forfeitures in case of treason, the forfeiture of that property was forbidden, of that kind of property incident to the corruption of blood. They must resort to the technical phrase, and they would find that forfeitures meant real estates. The gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Crabb) said, that the prohibition of the forfeiture of property, where life was not forfeited, was just, and not against the constitution. This remark was of more weight than any other offered, though he did not admit it to be satisfactory. On examining the bill, he believed both life and property might be forfeited. It was true, there might be a case in which the forfeiture of private property would be greater than real estate; but this was a general rule, and they obtained the benefit of the general rule, and paid the price of the exceptions for it. This law, he said, was against the spirit of the constitution; he would not say that it was against the letter, but it was certainly against the spirit of the constitution; for, if they allowed the forfeiture of real estate in any case besides treason, they might do it for treason also, by calling the crime by another name.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0201", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 11 April 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nSince my last the inclosed was recd. from J. B. The sample of rod must wait for a private conveyance.\nYours of the 27th. has been duly recd. You already know that the call for papers was refused, and reasons assigned more extraordinary a great deal than the refusal. This measure of the Ex. produced two propositions asserting the right of the House to judge of the expediency of Treaties stipulating on legislative subjects, & declaring that it was not requisite in a call for papers to express the use to be made of them. It was expected that a long and obstinate discussion would have attended these defensive measures. Under that Idea I entered into a free, but respectful review of the fallacy of the reasons contained in the Message and the day being nearly spent the Come. rose & an adjt. succeeded. The next morning instead of a reply the question was called for & taken without a word of argument on the subject. The two resolutions were carried by 57 agst. 35, & six members, who not foreseeing the early call for the question had not taken their seats, soon appeared & desired to have their names added to the Majority. This was not permitted by the rules of the House; but the case is explained in the Newspapers. Today is fixed for taking up the Treaties. We shall separate the Spanish & other Treaties from the British, & proceed to make for them the necessary provisions. With respect to the latter, it seems at present probable, that it will be hung up on a recital of the vices of the Treaty itself, the want of information, & the perseverance in seizing our Ships & seamen, which ought to have the same influence on our decision whether viewed as consistent with or an infraction of the Treaty. An Embargo on Indian Corn is proposed, but has not been discussed. Nothing very material from Abroad. Bache is publishing the Treaty Debates in nos. for an 80. vol: I inclose the 1st. no. under address to Mr. Carr. Adieu\nJ. M.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0203", "content": "Title: Execution of Treaties, [14 April] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n   On 31 March, Washington nominated commissioners for the implementation of articles 5, 6, and 7 of Jay\u2019s treaty, and the Senate confirmed them the next day. Sedgwick (Massachusetts) then moved in a Committee of the Whole on 13 April that the House ought to make provision by law to carry out the treaties concluded with Algiers, Great Britain, Spain, and the Northwest Indians. Republican members objected both to the consolidation of the treaties under a single resolution and to the proposed order for their consideration. Gallatin (Pennsylvania) moved that the treaty with Spain be taken up first, while JM suggested that the Indian treaty come first and the Algerine last. Gallatin\u2019s motion was carried, after which Blount (North Carolina) proposed striking from Sedgwick\u2019s resolution the words relating to the treaties with Algiers and Great Britain. Continuing the debate on 14 April, Dayton (New Jersey) argued that the requirements for the British evacuation of the Northwest posts by 1 June dictated that the House give consideration first to the Jay treaty, while Hillhouse (Connecticut) brought forward three separate resolutions to the effect that it was expedient to pass laws to carry out the treaties with the Northwest Indians, Algiers, and Great Britain (Senate Exec. ProceedingsJournal of the Executive Proceedings of the\n          Senate of the United States of America (3 vols.; Washington, 1828)., 1:204\u20135; Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\nMr. Madison would submit to the gentleman from Connecticut, to whose candour the committee were indebted, whether the question was not decided against a lumping vote on all the treaties, by the singular number, \u201cthe treaty,\u201d being inserted instead of the treaties, and therefore, that his resolutions were unnecessary.\nHe did not understand the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Gallatin) in the same way in which the gentleman from New-Jersey (the speaker) had understood him. He mentioned the interests of his constituents as inducements with himself for proposing and not to the house for deciding, to take up the Spanish treaty. But he would explain to the gentleman of New-Jersey and to the committee, why the Spanish treaty should first be taken up, and not the British. That treaty had excited no opposition, and would probably pass through the house without debate, and a select committee could prepare and bring in a bill for carrying it into effect; whilst the British treaty should be under discussion, but, if they began with a treaty which might occasion a lengthy discussion, nothing would be done with the other treaties before that was gone through; whereas, if they took up the other treaties before the British, little time would be spent before they came to that treaty. If the gentleman from Connecticut concurred with this idea, he could agree to let the question before the committee be taken, and then move his resolutions in the order he proposed.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0206", "content": "Title: To James Madison from A. Robertson, 16 April 1796\nFrom: Robertson, A.\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nNewyork 16 April 1796.\nAltho I have not the honour of being Personaly acquanted with you, I have taken the Liberty to Write you as a Member of our National Assembly and Man of good Sence and Abilites in the important Station you fill as a Reprensitive in Congress Now my Dear Sir Think Seriousely what your about in the Settling the Matter of the Treaty with Britian in which the Peace and Tranquality of this Country at present Depends let not party Sperit lead you into an error have Cherity for you bretheren who cannot See Matters in the Same light you do bear with one another and Study the general good of the Country and not our own privite Intrest and party Sperit to gain this and the other point that will favour our Partey My Dear Sir too much of this party Sperit apears in the Management of our Counterys Goverment and No fear of God in the Hearts of the Most of our Rulers being led by carnal and Selfish Principals which will end in there fall and Disgrace at last for they Nether regard God nor mind the State of there own Soul that they are made for an Eternal State either of Hapieness or Misery let these things have there due wight with you in Makeing Concence of doeing what is your duety at this Critical Junture of Publick afairs considering what an unpleasent fealling you will have in your own mind to have had an Active hand in renting & tearing this great New growing Nation in not Makeing provision for the Treaty and Adopting healing Measures for the Pace of the Country altho you See many things about the Treaty that is not good yet for the Union Pace and Safty of the great Whole look over these its imposible We can See all in the Same light every National Question there must be a giveing up and Makeing an allowance for our Brethren Sentements as We would have them to have for Us in this Manner Meet as brethren and consult the publick Will I Shall conclude with all Due respect Dear Sir Your Most Obedent Sert\nA Robertson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0207", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Thomas Jefferson, 17 April 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nYours of the 4th. came to hand the day before yesterday. I have turned to the Conventional history, and inclose you an exact copy of what is there on the subject you mentioned. I have also turned to my own papers, & send you some things extracted from them which shew that the recollection of the P. has not been accurate when he supposed his own opinion to have been uniformly that declared in his answer of Mar. 30. The records of the Senate will vouch this. I happened at the same time with your letter to recieve one from Mazzei giving some directions as to his remittances. I have not time to decide and say by this post how Dohrman\u2019s paiment should be remitted according to his desire & existing circumstances, that is to say, whether by bill on Amsterdam to the V. Staphorsts, or by bill on London to himself. I will write to you definitively by next post. We are experiencing a most distressing drought. The ground cannot now be broken with the plough. Our fruit is as yet safe, but the spring is cold & backward. Corn is at 25/ here, but greatly higher in some parts. Wheat 16/ at Richmond at 90. days. Tobo. 40/. My respects to Mrs. Madison. Adieu affectionately.\n[Enclosure]\nExtract verbatim from last page but one, & the last page.\n\u2018Mr. King suggested that the journals of the Convention should be either destroyed, or deposited in the custody of the President. He thought, if suffered to be made public, a bad use would be made of them by those who would wish to prevent the adoption of the constitution.\nMr. Wilson preferred the 2d expedient. He had at one time liked the first best: but as false suggestions may be propagated, it should not be made impossible to contradict them.\nA question was then put on depositing the journals & other papers of the Convention in the hands of the President, on which\nN. H. ay. M. ay. Ct. ay. N. J. ay. Pena. ay. Del. ay. Md. no.\n   This negative of Maryland was occasioned by the language of the instructions to the Deputies of that state, which required them to report to the state the proceedings of the Convention.\n Virga. ay. N. C. ay. S. C. ay Georgia ay.\nThe President having asked what the convention meant should be done with the Journals &c whether copies were to be allowed to the members if applied for, it was resolved nem: con: \u201cthat he retain the Journal & other papers subject to the order of the Congress, if ever formed under the constitution.\u201d\nThe members then proceeded to sign the instrument.\u2019 &c\n\u2018In Senate Feb. 1. 1791.\nThe Commee. to whom was referred that part of the speech of the Pr. of the US. at the opening of the session which relates to the commerce of the Mediterranean, & also the letter from the Secy. of state dated 20th. Jan. 1791. with the papers accompanying the same, reported, Whereupon\nResolved that the Senate do advise & consent that the Pr. of the US. take such measures as he may think necessary for the redemption of the citizens of the US. now in captivity at Algiers, provided the expence shall not exceed 40,000 Dols. & also that measures be taken to confirm the treaty now existing between the U. S. & the emperor of Marocco.\u2019\nThe above is a copy of a resoln. of Senate referred to me by the P. to prepare an answer to, and I find immediately following this among my papers a press copy from an original written fairly in my own hand ready for the P\u2019s signature & to be given in to the Senate the following answer.\n\u2018Gent. of the Senate.\nI will proceed to take measures for the ransom of our citizens in captivity at Algiers, in conformity with your resoln. of advice of the 1st. inst. so soon as the monies necessary shall be appropriated by the legislature & shall be in readiness.\nThe recognition of our treaty with the new Emperor of Marocco requires also previous appropriation & provision. The importance of this last to the liberty & property of our citizens induces me to urge it on your earliest attention.\u2019\nTho\u2019 I have no memm. of the delivery of this to the Senate yet I have not the least doubt it was given in to them & will be found among their records.\nI find among my press copies, the following in my hand writing\n\u2018The committee to report that the President does not think that circumstances will justify, in the present instance his entering into absolute engagements for the ransom of our captives in Algiers, nor calling for money from the treasury, nor raising it by loan, without previous authority from both branches of the legislature.\u2019 Apr. 9. 1792.\nI do not recollect the occasion of the above paper with certainty. But I think there was a commee. appointed by the Senate to confer with the P. on the subject of the ransom, and to advise what is there declined, and that a member of the commee. advising privately with me as to the report they were to make to the house, I minuted down the above, as the substance of what I concieved to be the proper report after what had passed with the Pr. and gave the original to the member preserving the press copy. I think the member was either mr. Izard or mr. Butler: and have no doubt such a report will be found on the files of the Senate.\nOn the 8th. of May following, in consequence of Questions proposed by the Pr. to the Senate, they came to a resolution, on which a mission was founded.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0208", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 18 April 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhilada. Apl. 18. 1796\nMy last requested your orders relating to Dohrman\u2019s payment to Me for Mazzei; & I impatiently wait for them.\nResolutions have passed for carrying into effect, the Spanish, Indian & Algerine Treaties. The British is now depending. I inclose the proposition in which the opponents of it, will unite. According to present calculation, this proposition will be carryed by nearly the same majority as prevailed in the vote asserting the Rights of the House on the subject of Treaties. The debate is but just commenced. Those who at first were for a silent question, will probably now spin out time for the purpose of calling in the mercantile interference in behalf. You will see the expedient on foot in this City. The petition of the Merchts. &c will be signed by 7 or 800 as is said. An adverse petition will be signed by 3 or 4 times that number. In N. Y. & Boston it is hoped the counter petitioners will equally preponderate. Baltimore which was at first most opposed to the Treaty is become most generally reconciled to the execution. The hope of endimnification [sic] for past losses, & the fears for their floating speculations, which have been arranged on the idea that the Treaty would go into effect, bear down with that class all attention to the general & permanent good of the Country, and perhaps their own real & comprehe[n]sive interest. The Country also is under an operation for obtaining petitions for the Treaty. The Western Counties, have yielded a number; being dextrously alarmed for the Spanish Treaty as involved in the fate of the British. I expected to have Sent you my observations on the Presidents Message, which the Printer told me shd. certainly be out this morning. He thought Mr. Iredell\u2019s charge & the eccho of the G. Jurey, entitled to priority.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0209", "content": "Title: From James Madison to James Monroe, 18 April 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Monroe, James\nDear Sir\nPhilada. Apl. 18. 1796.\nA letter chiefly on private subjects written about 10 days ago will accompany this, which I have postponed to the last moment of the oppy. by Mr. Fulton. This will relate chiefly to the British Treaty & to subjects connected with it. For a general view of the proceedings of Congs I refer to the Newspapers &c. which Mr. Fulton will receive for you, from myself, & other friends. You will find that the British Treaty was after long delay laid before the House. It gave rise to a motion calling for the instructions to the Envoy, his correspondences, and other Documents relating to the Treaty. This unqualified form being objected to, the Motion was varied (by the mover Mr. Livingston) so as to except from the papers called for, such of them as might relate to existing negociations. In order to render the motion perfectly unobjectionable, & the more justifiable to the public in case of a refusal of the papers, I moved to enlarge the exception to all such papers as the P. might deem it inconsistent with the interest of the U. States, at this time to disclose. This accomodating amendment was opposed by the whole Treaty party, who being joined by the warmer men on the other side succeeded in rejecting it. The principal motion was then discussed at full length, and was made to turn in the debates principally on the constitutional power of the House in relation to Treaties. The debates will shew you the ground taken on both sides. They were spun out to a duration of several Weeks. When the question was at length taken, the majority for the call was very decided, not less than twenty. Every eye within & without doors, was then turned to the President. The prevailing belief was that he would send a part if not the whole of the papers applied for. If he thought any part improper to be disclosed, or if he wished to assert his prerogative without coming to a rupture with the House, it was seen to be easy for him to avoid that extremity by that expedient. You will find by his Message in answer that he not only ran into the extreme of an absolute refusal; but assigned reasons worse than the refusal itself. I have no doubt that the advice & even the message itself were contrived in New York where it was seen that if the rising force of the republicans was not crushed it must speedily crush the British party and that the only hope of success lay in forcing an open rupture with the president. It is to be lamented that he so easily lent himself to the stratagem. It was expected that the message would have produced long & animated discussion. In that expectation I entered into a full comment on it, and in support at the same time of the two Resolutions asserting the rights of the House, which you will find in the Newspapers. No reply however was given to me, & the question on the Resolns. was taken without any thing more on the subject. They were carried by about 60 agst. 35. The next step was to go into a committee of the whole on all the Treaties. An attempt to lump them all, or at least the British & Spanish, was made, but readily defeated. The Spanish, Algerine & Indian Treaties were then decided on separately, and bills are ordered for carrying them into effect. The House is now engaged on the British Treaty. This is the third day of its discussion. I refer to the Motion of Mr. McClay for the form in which it is proposed to get rid of the Treaty. If no defections take place the motion will succeed by a majority of about twenty. But vast exertions are on foot without and within doors. You will observe the Memorial proposed by the Mercantile interest of this place. A counter-one it is said will be circulated & will be signed by the greater number. It is probable the example on both sides will be followed in the other large Towns. The Country also is stirred up to join in petitions for carrying the Treaty into effect. The 4 insurgent Counties of this State, have been alarmed by a dextrous combination of the Spanish & British Treaties, into petitions in favor of both. This has been the manoeuvre of Ross the senator. What the result of the whole is to be is among the arcana of time. I trust without being sure that the House will be firm. If so the public mind will rally under their auspices: If not you can appreciate the consequences which will be mischievous but I hope temporary.\nApril 19. Another day has passed in discussing the British Treaty. The event will probably be procrastinated for the sake of the experiment makg out of doors. I have put off closing this to the last moment, & thence am obliged with the truest cordialities in which my partner joins, to Mrs. M. & yourself to bid you adieu.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0210", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Edmund Randolph, 22 April 1796\nFrom: Randolph, Edmund\nTo: Madison, James\nMy dear friend\nRichmond April 22. 1796.\nFor reasons, which I assigned to you on our interview near Balto, I have not written to you, since your sojournment at Phila. The inclosed notice presents a subject, not influenced by those reasons. It is a branch of the Phila. system, which underwriters, merchants and the devotees of the administration invariably inforce; and unless counteracted, will throw every thing at their feet. The meeting on monday will in great measure be composed of British; and Scotch, who have no freeholds: of those, who are at the beck of the treasury, and of those, who are dependent on them. They will be met in argument; but will be victorious. However, a paper will be drawn up for countersignature, and dispersed. Tell Mr. Clopton, he stands firm. The tories had set up an opponent to him, long before they heard of his vote; and it is not worth his while to expect the smallest shadow of their favor. Yrs. very truly\nE. R.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0211", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 23 April 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nI inclose another number of the Debates on the Treaty. The subject is still going on in the House, as well as the press. The majority has melted, by changes and absence, to 8 or 9 votes. Whether these will continue firm is more than I can decide. Every possible exertion is made as usual on the other side. A sort of appeal has been made to the people, with an expectation that the mercantile force would triumph over the popular sentiment. In this city the majority of petitioners has appeared agst. the Mercantile party. We do not know the event of the experiment in N. York. Petitions on both sides are running thro\u2019 the adjoining States of Delaware, & N. Jersey. Among other extraordinary manoeuvres, the Insurance Companies here & in New Y. stopt business, in order to reduce prices & alarm the public. The Banks have been powerfully felt in the progress of the petitions in the Cities for the Treaty. Scarce a mercht. or Trader but what depends on discounts, and at this moment there is a general pinch for money. Under such circumstances, a Bank Director soliciting subscriptions is like a Highwayman with a pistol demanding the purse. We hope the question will be taken tomorrow. But if carried agst. the Treaty, the game will be played over again in other forms. The Senate will either send it down by itself, or coupled with the Spanish Treaty or both. Nothing of importance from Europe. Adieu.\nJs. Madison Jr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0212", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Thomas Jefferson, 24 April 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Madison, James\nYours of the 11th. is recieved, with the letter from Bringhurst. On consideration of all circumstances, I find that the advantages of taking iron from the manufacturer will be more than countervailed by disadvantages. I give up Sharpless therefore. Lownes I must abandon. Above a month ago I wrote to him for an additional ton of rod, merely to furnish a decent occasion to call for nearly that quantity still unfurnished tho paid for so long ago as October last. I find it is not furnished because it was paid for before hand. I therefore conclude to open dealings with mr. Howel, to whom I have written the inclosed letter, which I have left open for your perusal, merely that understanding the ground of my application, you may have the goodness to call on him, and just make us as it were acquainted in the offset, which will start us with that degree of good understanding that might otherwise require a course of time & dealing to establish. This single office performed, I will give you no further trouble with the business.\nWith respect to Mazzei\u2019s money, I think it safest on the whole to remit it to the Van Staphorsts & Hubbard of Amsterdam, with whom Mazzei is on the best & most confidential terms. I will therefore ask the favor of you to invest it in bills on Amsterdam; not in London bills, as in a former remittance of bills on London payable to the V. S. & H. the drawee availed himself of mr. Pitt\u2019s law forbidding paiment. I will write to V. S. & H. and also to Mazzei by this or the next post, to inform them of what we do, so that you need only put the bills under cover to V. S. & H. and refer them to the explanations they will recieve from me. Nothing new in politics. We are withering under an unparraleled drought. Adieu affectionately.\nP. S. I have written the letters to V. S. & H. & P. M. which I will pray you to have forwarded, for which purpose I inclose them.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0214", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Edmund Randolph, 25 April 1796\nFrom: Randolph, Edmund\nTo: Madison, James\nMy dear friend\nRichmond April 25. 1796.\nThe meeting, which I mentioned to you in my last letter, was this day held at the Capitol. Between 3 & 400 persons were present; a large proportion of whom were British merchants, some of whom pay for the British purchases of horses, their clerks, officers, who hold posts under the President at his will, stockholders\u2014expectants of office\u2014and many without the shadow of a freehold. Notwithstanding this, the numbers on the republican side, tho\u2019 inferior, were inferior in a small degree only; and it is believed on good grounds, that the majority of freeholders were on the side of the house of representatives. Campbell and Marshall were the principal combatants, Arranged, as you know, without being told. Marshall\u2019s argument was inconsistent, and shifting; concluding every third sentence with the horrors of war. Campbell spoke elegantly and forcibly; and threw ridicule and absurdity upon his antagonist with success. Mr. Clopton will receive two papers; one signed by the treaty men, many of whom he will know to have neither interest nor feeling in common with the citizens of Virginia, and to have been transplanted hither from England or Caledonia since the war; interspersed pretty considerably with fugitive tories, who have returned under the amnesty of peace.\nThe notice, which I sent you the other day, spoke of instructions and a petition; but Marshall, suspecting, that he would be outnumbered by freeholders, and conscious, that none should instruct, except those, who elect, quitted the idea of instructions, and betook himself to a petition, in which, he said, all the inhabitants of Richmond, tho\u2019 not freeholders, might join. Upon which Campbell gave notice, that it would be published, that he (Marshall) declined hazarding the question on the true sense of the country. Very few of the people of the county were present; but \u00be of those, who were present, voted with Campbell. Dr. Foushee was extremely active, and influential. Shew this to J. Nicholas, to whom Wilson, now here, means to write. Yrs. very truly\nE. R.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0215", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Joseph Jones, 26 April 1796\nFrom: Jones, Joseph\nTo: Madison, James\nDr. Sr.\nFredg. 26th. Apr: 1796. \nHaving a few days to spare between the courts of K. & Q. and Williamsburg I have (by way of a short cut) taken Fredg. in the way\u2014on my arrival here I recd. your letters of the 28. & 30th. March with the papers inclosed. I was satisfied the p. meant not to comply with the request of the House by his answer to the Com:tee. I had supposed untill then he wod. not refuse the papers. Altho\u2019 when he has taken his ground he is firm in maintaining it yet I conceived he wod. be very unwilling to hazard a breach with the house of representatives. I fear he receives bad Council or he imagined his popularity too firmly established to be shaken even in a contest with the representatives on constitutional ground. He shod. not have remarked on the discussion in the house or declared his Opinion what was the meaning of the Convention\u2014with equal propriety might you and every other member of the Convention do the same, and be governed in your conduct by the Opinion you then espoused and not by the language of the instrument on a fair construction of its meaning\u2014to avoid this misconduct legislative and Judiciary Have been separated. I find the plan of petg. by the Merchts. is adopted and in progress through the States. If they shall in general breath the sentiments of that of Philadelphia their effort will rather inflame than moderate the passions. I am told there has been a meeting here. You have a difficult and embarrassing business to go through, which I hope will be prosecuted with temper and proper firmness for the credit of our Country as well as the permanent advantage of the people. I must again trouble you with a packet for Monroe. Has pickering and Bache done any thing. Monroe speaks of geting a patent for 2000 acres military land over the Ohio, wch. has been surveyed and that the P. by an Existing law will grant the patent. Wishing your family the blessing of health I am yr. friend & Servt\nJos: Jones\nI set out this afternoon for the Bowling green to take the stage in the morning for Wms.burg.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0216", "content": "Title: To James Madison from John Langdon, 28 April 1796\nFrom: Langdon, John\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sr.\nPortsmouth. April 28th. 1796\nBefore this comes to hand you\u2019ll see by the petitions, that will be laid before you; that the Treaty or British party are makeing every exertion to obtain their object; The Cry is war, war, no Insurance to be had, Vessells hauled up, no employment for the people; they modestly declare that the Treaty is a very bad one, and that they dislike it as much as those who oppose it, but our Situation is such that we must take it, they are sorry that the Senate ever agreed to it, but as its\u2019 done there is no help for it. By such Arguments suddenly bro\u2019t forward, and the Influence of all their party upon the Spur of Occasion hurry people into an opinion, that upon Reflection, they must condemn.\nI understand the Circular letter from Philad. Signed by Fitsimmons, (who has a thousand a year as Commiss[i]oner) has been received here but I beleive nothing will be Attempted, as a Vast Majority of the people are Opposed to the Treaty\u2014and are lookg up to the House of Representatives, to save us from Distruction. Firmness (my Dear Sr.) in the House, is every thing we have to depend on, and Notwithstandg. all the petitions of Anglo American Mercha[n]ts, old Tories, and Speculators; the great Body of Truely American people, will ever Rejoice and rise up and call you Blessed.\nHaveg just got home have not time to write you fully. If any thing further turn\u2019s up will info[r]m you. Mrs. and Miss Langdon Join me in our best Respects to Mrs. Madison and the young Ladies of your House. Beleve me always with the Highest Respect and esteem Dr. Sr. your mot Obt Sert.\nJohn Langdon", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0217", "content": "Title: To James Madison from William Walker, 28 April 1796\nFrom: Walker, William\nTo: Madison, James\nSr\nMadison County 28th Aprill 1796\nLast November Colo. George Hancock on his Way to Congress Cawl\u2019d on Me ad. prevail\u2019d on me to Give up pattans for Abought five thousand Eight hundred Acres of Land Which Was in pardnership Betwen him and my Self Which he Was to Sell But Was Not to take Less then four Shillings per Acre for my part and if he Sold it he Was to Lodg the Money for my part With you; I then Rote to you Informing you of the Matter; But as I have Never heard a Word from you Nor him I have Made free to Wright to you again and Should Be Glad to Be Informd Somthing abought the Business and if he Should Sell any troble you Should Be at in Recveing the Money and Sending it to me or William Lovell of fredericksburgh Will Be thankfully Paid By your Most humle. Servt.\nWilliam Walker", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0219", "content": "Title: From James Madison to John Langdon, 1 May 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Langdon, John\nDear Sir:\nPhiladelphia, May 1, 1796.\nThe question, the result of which you wished me to drop you, though hovering towards a close for some time past, was not actually decided till yesterday. The day before, the Committee of the Whole divided on it, on the form of a simple resolution for carrying the Treaty into effect. The votes were equal\u201449 & 49. The Chairman, Mr. Muhlenberg, said he did not like the proposition, at least unmodified; and would decide for it, that it might pass into the House, when modifications might be made. The equality of votes was occasioned by the sickness of one member, and a casual absence of another; both of whom were certainly against the proposition. In the House, yesterday, General Dearborne moved as a preamble, \u201cthat altho\u2019 the Treaty was objectionable, yet, considering all circumstances, particularly that 18th art.; one to be in force for two years, &c., & confiding in the efficiency of measures that may be taken for producing a discontinuance of spoliation & impression,\u201d Resolved, &c. This is the sum, tho\u2019 not the words of the motion. According to every rational rule of voting, all those who wished if the Treaty should be executed the evil might be mitigated, ought to have voted for the preamble. A number, however, of the most determined opponents of the Treaty took it into their heads to be in the negative, whereby the motion was lost by one vote. The main resolution was then carried by 50 against 48. The consideration which turned the scale on that side seems to have been an unwillingness to oppose a bare majority to a measure presenting itself under all the circumstances of the Treaty. Your own reflections will supply all the comment I could make on the event of this business. Mrs. M. takes the occasion of offering her best regards to Mr. & Mrs. L., to which you will please to add the tribute due from Dr. Sir yrs. respectfully & sincerely,\nJ. Madison.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0220", "content": "Title: From James Madison to James Madison, Sr., 1 May 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Madison, James, Sr.\nHon\u2019d Sir\nPhilada. May 1. 96.\nInclosed is a letter from Mr. Chew, with the papers to which it refers. I have not yet recd. the subsequent letter promised. I have thought it best to put every thing he has sent into your hands, that you may be the better able to take the steps which his interest requires. The Letter for Z. Taylor, will go with more safety by private hands from Orange, than thro\u2019 the post office from this place.\nThe Treaty was yesterday carried by 51 agst. 48. You will see the course of the business in the Newspaper. I begin now to hope for an end to the Session: but hardly expect to be in Orang\u27e8e\u27e9 within the present month. I inclose to brother Wm. a continuation of the debates on the Treaty;", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0221", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Joseph Jones, [ca. 1 May] 1796\nFrom: Jones, Joseph\nTo: Madison, James\nDr. Sr.\nOn my arrival here on the 28th. I recd. your favors of the 18th. & 22d. and last evening that of the 25th. ult. and thank you very kindly for the communications they contain. I wish you may take the question on the app: for the British treaty as soon as you expect, as I am apprehensive the delay will prove dangerous, and greatly diminish the respectable number of the former majority if not reverse the vote. The proceedings of the Phila. Merchts. have been circulated for similar meetings through all the Towns and great exertions are made every where to obtain petitions with numerous signers\u2014they have been much opposed at the meetings in the Towns here and counter petns. circulated for signature. Many yield to the applications on the part of those friendly to the treaty merely from an acquiescence in the act of the Executive rather than hazard the consequences of rejecting the Treaty which they are fearfull and are taught to believe will produce War. It is really wonderfull to hear the observations of some persons, those particularly attached to the president either from having served under, and acted with him in the field, or unwilling or unable to comprehend the purport and tendency of the Treaty follow implicitly the decision of the Executive majestrate from a respect for his former services and established Character. I am really astonished at the sentiments now maintained by the friends of the present administration so contrary to the principles of republicanism and the rights of the people, that had I not lived and been acquainted with the sentiments and opinions that regulated our conduct in the course of the late revolution I could not believe such sentiments had ever existed. I have heard that lately in the County of K. Wm. some persons so Wholely devoted to the influence of a certain person talked of addressing him to persevere in his determination of carrying the treaty into effect and that they and the people of that class wod. support him in it. Such declarations shew (if such were made) to what lengths some creatures of the government are disposed to go. Altho\u2019 there are those heretofore unfriendly to the Treaty who in the present stage of the business are willing to acquiesce in its operation they wod. by no means censure or oppose the conduct of their representatives shod. that Body disapprove the treaty conceiving it not only to be the right of the house to think and act for itself in a contest with another departmt. of the government, but that the representative Body can have no object in contemplation other than the future welfare and happiness of the people. I saw The Bishop the day before yesterday at Mr. Prentis\u2019s at dinner he was well and I presented him your compliments\u2014he went yesterday for Richmond to attend the Convention of the Clergy. I have written a few lines to Pickering to save you the trouble of repeated applications which may probably prove a spur to him. Mr. Prentis begs his respects to be presented to you accept those of Dr Sr. yr. friend & Servt\nJos: Jones", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0224", "content": "Title: From James Madison to William Thornton, 5 May 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Thornton, William\nDear Sir\nPhilada. May 5. 1796\nI put a few lines into the hand of Mr. Volney, rather that he may be the bearer of my friendly respects, than that he needs any introduction to you, who are always so much disposed to do justice to merit, & who are already so well acquainted with his. He is on a ramble Southwardly, & will make your nascent metropolis a resting place of his observations for a few days. I hope he will carry from it every favorable impression; as I am sure he will that of your polite & kind attention. With great sincerity, I am Dear Sir your friend & Servant\nJs. Madison Jr.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0227", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 9 May 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nI have your letter on the subject of Mr. Howell & seen the old gentleman who interests himself in it. I think it probable you will find reason to be satisfied with the change you have made in your merchant. I have not yet been able to procure bills on Amsterdam for Van Staphorst. They can be got I am told, but not with so much ease or choice, as on London. I shall not intermit my attention to that object.\nWe have had a calm ever since the decision on the Treaty. Petitions however continue to arrive, chiefly in favr. of the Treaty. The N. England States have been ready to rise in mass agst. the H. of Reps. Such have been the exertions & influence of Aristocracy, Anglicism, & mercantilism in that quarter, that Republicanism is perfectly overwhelmed, even in the Town of Boston. I hope it will prove but a transitory calamity; and that the discovery of the delusion, will ultimately work a salutary effect. The people have been every where made to believe that the object of the H. of Reps. in resisting the Treaty was\u2014War; and have thence listened to the summons \u201cto follow where Washington leads.\u201d Nothing late from abroad. We expect to adjourn abt. the 20 or 25 inst: Adieu Yrs. affy\nJs. Madison Jr\nWe has [sic] just had a most plentiful rain after a drought nearly as severe as that with you.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0228", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Stephen Moylan, [9 May] 1796\nFrom: Moylan, Stephen\nTo: Madison, James\n\u2026 The room now occupied as an office has undergone no alteration [and if] applied to any other purpose it would need repairs.\u2026", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0230", "content": "Title: Sale of Prizes, [11 May] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n   On 7 May, Smith (Maryland) moved that no nation be allowed to sell prizes in United States ports, there being no provision to prevent Great Britain from selling Spanish prizes in the event of an Anglo-Spanish war. Debate began on a bill in a Committee of the Whole on 11 May (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\nMr. Madison believed, that if a war were to break out between Great Britain and Spain, we should then be as free to make such a regulation as we are during the war at present; and if so, he did not see the necessity of going into such a measure at present.\nHe thought there was some weight in the argument of the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Swanwick) that if this was an advantage given to Spain, we ought to have something in return; and though she might, from a principle of magnanimity, grant us a similar regulation, it would be more certain to have it secured by treaty. As he did not see the necessity for this measure, he did not like a legislative interference, of any sort under present circumstances. The executive was charged with the application of the laws of nations, and were responsible on that subject; the legislature were to define them. This would induce hesitation at least. He had not thought much on the subject; but he believed there was nothing in the present case, that could require the interference of Congress, in a manner to assume a responsibility belonging to the executive department.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0232", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Timothy Pickering, 12 May 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Madison, James\nSir,\nI have this morning received a letter from Colo. Monroe, covering the account of the sums paid for books &c. for the department of war, amounting to 2570 livres & 6 deniers. I have sent the letter and account to the Secretary of War, on whom is devolved the duty of making payment. The account transmitted with the books was made out in Assignats. That now received gives the rates of depreciation, & the above mentioned sum must be the value in specie. I am very respectfully sir, yr. obt. servt.\nT. Pickering", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0234", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Arthur Breese, 13 May 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Breese, Arthur\nSir\nPhilada May 13. 1796\nSince I last communicated with you on the subject of the lot of land on the Mohawk, I have disposed of it to Mr. Bailey & Mr. Vanwyk; and have made it a part of the bargain that the lot shall be resurveyed at the joint expence of the parties, in order that the price may be adjusted to the quantity. The estimated quantity (nine hundred acres) was brought into doubt, by finding that the given lines reduced it considerably. Under this impression the resurvey was agreed on. It has since however been found, by consulting the line common to this lot, & the adjoining one belongg. to Col. Floyd, that the error has proceeded from an abridgment of one of the lines, not from a protraction of another. I consider it more probable therefore now, from the liberallty of original surveys, that a more accurate resurvey, will rather increase than diminish the quant[it]y. Whatever the event may be, I have to request the favor of you to represent me in the steps necessary for determining it. Mr. Bailey will be kind eno\u2019 to make any advances which may be requisite on my part, & I shall not forget any of the kinds of obligation which your trouble in the business will lay me under. I will thank you to let me know the result as soon as the survey shall be finished by a line addressed to \u201cJames Madison Jr. Orange Court House to the care of J. Blair Esqr Fredg. Virga.[\u201d]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0235", "content": "Title: From James Madison to James Monroe, 14 May 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Monroe, James\nDear Sir\nPhilada. May 14. 1796\nMy last with some pamphlets & Newspapers was put into the care of Mr. Fulton, who, I had hoped was half across the Atlantic, when he reappeared here in consequence of shipwreck. I avail myself of his second departure to add a little more to the printed budget, as well as to the narrative in my letter. At the date of it, the British Treaty was in full discussion, and the event hanging in uncertainty. It soon appeared that the majority was not entirely composed of materials firm enough for the crisis. It daily melted down till the day of the question when Mulenberg in the chair of the committee gave very unexpectedly a casting vote in the affirmative observing that he did so with a view to some modification in the House. It is to be remarked that when the vote was taken Patton was ill & Varnum casually not present both of them firm against the treaty. In the House a proposition was made by Mr. Dearbourne reciting as a preamble, \u201cthat altho the Treaty was objectionable & injurious, yet considering all circumstances, & particularly that the 18 last articles will be of short duration, and confiding in the efficacy of measures that may be taken for bringing about a discontinuance of spoliations & impressments, Resolvd. &c.\u201d This was lost by a single vote only; seven or eight of the stiffest antitreaty men taking a wrongheaded course. Such a preamble would have been a bitter ingredient tho it would have transferred a few votes. On the main question, there was a majority of three, 51 & 48. for carrying the Treaty into effect. Many of the means by which this majority was brought about will occur to you. But it is to be ascribed principally to an appeal to petitions under the mercantile influence and the alarm of war. A circular letter from the merchants of Philadelphia gave the signal to all other towns. The people were everywhere called on to chuse between peace and war and to side with the treaty if they preferred the former. This stratagem produced in many places a fever & in New England a delirium for the treaty which soon covered the table with petitions. The counter petitions tho powerful from Philadelphia & respectable from some other quarters did not keep pace. Indeed there was not time for distant parts where the treaty was most odious to express their sentiments before the occasion was over. Besides the alarm of war in the smaller states a great excitement was produced in them by the appeal of the president in his message to their particular interest in the powers of the Senate. What the effect of this whole business will be on the public mind cannot yet be traced with certainty. For the moment at least it presses hard on the republican interest it probably would have been better if the great majority existing at one moment had been taken advantage of for a strong preface in the tone of Dearborn and if the treaty party had then carried their object with the consequences on their own heads. The final turn of the majority, ought at least to [have] been sooner prepared for. This was in fact contemplated. But before some were ripe for the arrangement others were rotten. As soon as the subject was finished an explanatory article signed by Bond and Pickering marked with sundry curious features was laid before the Senate and has been ratified. The avowed object is to declare that the Indian treaty which requires a special licence to Traders residing at the Indian Towns, shall not affect the British privileges under the third article. This when made public will justify an important ground of opposition to the treaty. Adet seems to [have] conducted himself with great circumspection throughout the crisis here nor do I know what or whether anything escapes him since the conclusion of it. It will be deeply interesting to know how France will take it all. I hope no rash councils will prevail with her. You can foresee the consequences of such here. Whilst the war lasts England will command most attention because she can do this country most harm. In peace France will command most attention because she can do it most good. This view of the subject, may perhaps be worth your development on fit occasions. Among the bills just passed the H. of Reps. is one prohibiting the sale of prizes in our ports. It did not pass, without doubts & opposition. The real object with most was to protect Spanish & Dutch vessels as much as possible, on the supposition that the British Treaty protected hers in this respect agst. all nations. It is now generally understood that the president will retire. Jefferson is the object on one side Adams apparently on the other. The secondary objects still unsettled. The general result rendered doubtful by the probable complexion of the New York legislature and by a late law of Pensylvania for chusing electors by a general ticket. If the decision should result to the H. of R. it will be safe. I have just recd. your\u2019s of Novr. 8th. Your last was of Jany. 20. The papers will inform you, that Fitzimmons & Innis are the American Commissrs. for the Debts & Pinkney of Maryland & Gore of Massts. for the spoliations. The tediousness of the Cypher obliges me to close in haste. I will write again before I leave this, which I hope will be in about 10 days, there being now a general impatience to adjourn. Our best respects & regards to Mrs. M. & yourself. Adieu. Yrs. affy.\nJs. M. Jr\nIf you can procure a Chimney clock for me, within reasonable limits I will thank you [to] do so, sending it however to Fredericksburg (not to this place) to the care of Js. Blair Esqr. It will be necessary to have it packed to bear the Waggon from Fredg to Orange.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0236", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Walter Jones, 15 May 1796\nFrom: Jones, Walter\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir.\nI have to thank you for your favours of the 1st. of May, which I r[e]ceived on the 12th.\u2014the printed observations have obtained all the approbation from me, which their Temper & Matter So justly claim. But, my dear Sir, Temper & argument lose much of their Force, amid the Conflicts of party, exasperated by the Spirit of Faction, and to Such I fear, is the fate of these States, at present, Committed. Surely a preference is due to the Success of popular rather than of executive or prerogative Party, in as much as the disquiet & turbulence of eternal contest, or even the hazards of revolution, are preferable to the tremendous order and Stillness of executive despotism. But hac urget Lupus, hac Canis angit. A Philanthropist must Consider it as a choice of two Evils; and look with insatiate longing, to an order of Things, wherein the prevalent Habits of the Citizens shall be such, as both to meliorate the moral dispositions of the whole, and to withdraw the Temptations, which the powers, Emoluments, & distinctions of Government, now presents to its Functionaries. I know that the order of things here alluded to, is generally dismissed with the Epithets of Visionary, Utopian, impracticable: yet inlightened & Scientific as this age deems itself, its Fitness to make Such a decision is extremely questionable for 1st. The Systems of Ethics (and Politics is a troublesome appendage of Ethics) are as various as their authors, and generally at variance with each other. Ten thousand effects of Institution are daily mistaken, for unavoidable propensities of our nature. 2y. It has been long & wisely observed, that men are born with much more equality of moral & intellectual Capacities, than is generally Supposed or admitted. All are most eminently the Subjects of Habit. Habits are, for far the greatest part, the offspring of Institution. The great Sources of Institution are Education, Theology, Commerce & Government; and Some of the most generally pernicious Institutions are thence derived. The Science respecting these topics is almost in Embryo; if there be extant even a tolerably Complete History & analysis of the human mind & its moral powers it is to me unknown. Under these Circumstances, is it reasonable to look only to the Causes of Evil Habits for their remedies? Is it not highly precipitate & presumptuous, to pronounce, that a moral Condition of human Society, that is natural, possible, and, in the extreme, desirable, shall be for ever unattainable?\nIt grieves me when I see Virtue & Talents waisting their unavailing Energies, in Stemming public Vice and promoting public happiness, by Such defective, clumsy Instruments, as the checks & modifications of written Forms of public Rule. As well might we hope by Abracadabra, or other words of Incantation, to mend a broken Limb, or heal Corrosions in a vital Organ. It is time we should quit the retrospective Process, of deducing the excellence of our own Institutions from a Comparison with worse that have preceded them. We Should take a Commanding Station at the point, to which our predecessors have conducted us, and rather look forward to what Mankind may do & may be, than backward to what they have done & have been. I am persuaded that a few hundred Individuals, united in Common principles, measures & Efforts for the moral Improvement of our Citizens, in any one of these States, would render more real Service to Social happiness, than all the Kings, Presidents, Senators & legislators that ever existed. In all ages the great Importance of manners in a State has been acknowledged & recommended; but there the matter has rested; because the Instruments for beginning the work, have been Constantly mistaken\u2014the Subject\u27e8s\u27e9 of manners are only Individuals, the Interest is individual, and individuals can alone become effective Instruments\u2014to make positive & coercive Institutions the Instruments, is to Constitute a wolf the Sheperd of the Flock.\nWe Seem So to Confide & triumph in our modern Improvements of elective and representative Government, as to mistake the diminution of an Evil, for a Substitution of positive good\u2014we are apt to overlook the powerful Counterpoise to these Improvements, which the Ingenuity & vigilance of executive Government has at the Same time invented; and which operates more Slowly, but more Surely in atchieving despotism, than the Satellites of a Dionysius or the Legions of a Cesar. It will be readily imagined that I mean a monied Interest, built upon public Debts & Funds, and these upon Taxation. This rivets the alliance between prerogative & Commerce, naturally enough leaning to each other, from a Spirit of monopoly Common to both\u2014let us imagine one of these improved Governments beginning to Act. The Theorists have provided Checks & ballances enough to Satisfy the wishes, even of the vice-president, Mr. adams\u2014the Executive, as it [sic] its nature, begins to arrogate & to acquire all the power it can\u2014the Equipoise is disturbed; the Ligatures of the checks are Strained\u2014the Representatives oppose these pretensions\u2014Contest ensues\u2014the arrival of despotism is procrastinated, but not endangered\u2014this Struggle, in its progress, displays examples of vigour, Capacity and Virtue; in time too of vigour Capacity & vice\u2014characters of the latter Sort, ingender the Venom of Faction, and are as criminally ambitious as the Executive departments\u2014the occasional developement of the bad motives of a factious opposition, bring the whole into disrepute & distrust\u2014the faction perhaps succeeds in disposessing their adversaries, & take the Helm\u2014they practice the very arts they reprobated in their predecessors\u2014representative Confidence is weakened, executive Rule is proportionably fortified. In the meantime what is become of the Soveriegn People? They, poor Souls, were told they had formed a Government\u2014that a due number of checks and balances were provided\u2014they confide in the Magic of these checks & balances\u2014they indulge an Apathy to public Concerns & Information\u2014they persue, with extreme avidity, the objects of Self Interest and Self injoyment, in which are Swallowed up their Benevolence & public Spirit. If they are appealed to, in the contests of Government they have no intellectual Light to guide them\u2014about the Period of Elections, or at the Crisis of Some interesting measure, they may be roused into temporary motion from the Impressions of vicious popular Candidates or of Government-runners, as those Impressions may happen to Strike\u2014if excited to more durable exertions, it will be with Zeal without Knowledge\u2014they are become fit Subjects to add fuel to the Flame of popular Fury, or Force to the Sword of executive ambition; they manifest by their precipitancy & Passion; that they mistake the Dissoluteness of opinion & principle for the manly expressions of rational Liberty, and an Impatience of restraint & order for a magnanimous disdain of oppression.\nReflixions of this Sort frequently occupy my Mind, and nothing would give me more pleasure, than an Interchange of observations from you & Mr. Page, when you are retired from the present busy Scene. I am illy placed for any useful discussion. The Gross of our people are political Paralytics; and most of those who are more capable of Conversation, and with whom I have most intercourse & Intimacy, are So diametrically opposed to me in opinions, that we avoid topics that would produce nothing but unavailing Dispute. Present me most kindly to Mr. Page, Shew him this Letter, and beli[e]ve me Dear Sir yours with Esteem & affection\nWalt: Jones\nMay 17th. This Letter, waiting for the Post, has remained with me, till I have Seen the account of a Memorial from the County of westmorland presented by your Speaker. I have as little reason to respect the Qualifications of our member, or the arts by which he became Such, as any person in existence, but I really detest the mixt motives of arrogance, Spite & littleness of mind, that could Suggest a measure So calculated to degrade & give pain to a man whose Sin was merely political. Knowing as well as I do the manner in which the thing was moved & effected, I confess had I been the representative, I should have been ashamed to present it\u2014but that is not the Case with the member. The Stockjobbers and mercantile people find an alliance with executive Government at present uneligible, but Seem not to reflect how dangerous a Connexion it is. When they have aided its Growth, to a Certain extent, it will infallibly Swallow up its weaker associate. My observations \u27e8rela\u27e9tive Government respect the Function and not the Functionary I think the present man as venerable virtuous and able as any we could have chosen. The Esprit de Corps incident to the office, is too Strong for the officer\u2014it will fashion him generally & very Seldom can the officer fashion it. The distinction & power are personal & Captivating\u2014the Duties too extensive for any Single Capacity\u2014he must too often have Eyes & See not, Ears & hear not, an understanding & not perceive\u2014in a thousand Cases he must depend on others for all this.\nWJ.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0238", "content": "Title: Act respecting the Mint, [21 May] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n   The Senate bill respecting the Mint was passed on 20 May and received by the House. It was referred the next day to a committee including JM, Swanwick, and Smith (New Hampshire) (JHRJournal of the House of Representatives of\n          the United States (9 vols.; Washington, 1826)., 2:567, 569).\nMr. Madison, from the committee to whom was referred the bill from the senate respecting the mint, reported the bill, with an amendment limiting its duration to two years, and from thence to the end of the next session of congress.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0239", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 22 May 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhilada. May 22. 1796\nCongress are hurrying through the remnant of business before them, and will probably adjourn about saturday next. Petitions in favor of the Treaty still come in from distant places. The name of the President & the alarm of war, have had a greater effect, than were apprehended on one side, or expected on the other. A crisis which ought to have been so managed as to fortify the Republican cause, has left it in a very crippled condition; from which its recovery will be the more difficult as the elections in N. Y. Massachussets & other States, where the prospects were favorable, have taken a wrong turn under the impressions of the moment. Nothing but auspicious contingences abroad or at home, can regain the lost ground. Peace in Europe would have a most salutary influence, and accts. just recd. from France revive in some degree the hope of it with the Emperor, which will hasten of course a peace with England. On the other hand, a scene rather gloomy is presented by a letter I have just recd. from Col. M. It is dated Feby. 27. The following extracts form the substance of it.\n\u201cAbout a fortnight past I was informed by the minister of foreign affairs that the government had at length resolved how to act with us in respect to our treaty with England that they considered it as having violated or rather annulled our treaty of alliance with them and taken part with the coalised powers that they had rather have an open enemy than a perfidious friend\u2014that it was resolved to send an envoy extra. to the United States to discuss this business with us and whose powers would expire with the execution of the trust. I was astonished with the communication and alarmed with its probable consequences. I told him it might probably lead to war and thereby seperate us which was what our enemies wished\u2014that it hazarded much and without a probable gain that from the moment a person of that character arrived their friends would seem to act under his banner and which circumstance would injure their character and lessen their efforts. In truth I did everything in my power to prevent this measure and in which I am now told by the minister that I have succeeded the Directoire having resolved to continue the ordinary course of representation only. But thro\u2019 this I hear strong sentiments will be conveyed. The whole of this is made known to the executive by me.\u201d\n\u201cThe forced loan was less productive than was expected, and the embarrassment in the finance extreme. Some think another movement at hand but I see no evidence of it at present. In all calculations on this subject it ought to be recollected that the executive are sound and having the government in their hands are strong.\u201d\n\u201cThere are strong symptoms of an actual rupture between us and this country. The minister the government preferred to have us as open rather than perfidious friends. Other proofs occur to shew that this sentiment has gone deep into their councils.\u201d\nThe \u201cMinerva\u201d of N. Y. lately announced, with an affected emphasis, a letter from Paris to N. Y. intimating that influencial persons in the U. S. were urging measures on France, which might force this Country to chuse war agst. England, as the only alternative for war agst. France. It is probable that categorical steps on the part of F. towards us are anticipated as the consequence of what has been effected by the British party here, and that much artifice will be practised by it to charge them in some unpopular form, on its Republican opponents.\nBefore I leave this I shall make up a parcel of pamphlets &c. for you to be forwarded to Richmond. The inclosed number of the Debates is a continuation which has been regular, I hope the preceding numbers have all arrived safe.\nKing is appointed Minister to London & Humphreys to Madrid, Pinkney & Short retiring. The vacancy at Lisbon not yet filled.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0240", "content": "Title: From James Madison to George Washington, 25 May 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Washington, George\nPhilada. May 25. 1796\nMr. Madison presents his respectful compliments to the President, and begs to mention the wish of Joseph Nevil Esqr. (late a member of the House of Representatives) to be taken into consideration in the appointment of Surveyor, under the law for the sale of lands N. West of the Ohio. He takes the liberty also of inclosing a letter from General Posey, expressing his wishes with respect to an appointment, which Mr. M. does not think it proper to withold, altho\u2019 the precise object of them, may not correspond with the arrangements of the law.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0242", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 30 May 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nCongress will adjourn the day after to-morrow. News as late as April 8 from London; peace likely to take place between France and England; provisions falling much in price, both in F. and G. B. The moneyed distresses reviving in the latter, and great alarms for a terrible shock to the Banking and Mercantile Houses.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0244", "content": "Title: To James Madison from James Monroe, 7 June 1796\nFrom: Monroe, James\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nParis June 7. 1796.\nYours of the 25. of Feby. is the only I have recd. for 12. months past, altho\u2019 I have written unceasingly & fully. I suspect your letters are thrown over in the sea by the captns of vessels to avoid compromittment. For the future therefore it may be well to address by the way of Engld. under the care of Mr. Pinckney or in case he withdraws, some merchants deserving confidence. Mr. Yard wod. probably arrange this for you.\nIt is reported here that the H. of R. has refused to execute the Bh. treaty so far as depends on it, & in consequence that there is a fair appeal to the people on that subject between that house on the one part & the Presidt. & the Senate on the other. We are of course very anxious to hear whether this report is true, & in case it is what the issue will be.\nIn several preceding letters I advised you that the Directoire had at one time appointed an envoy extra. to repair to the United States to remonstrate against our treaty with England and in case satisfaction was not obtained to withdraw immediately and that it was not without the greatest difficulty and solemn assurance and upon the faith of my private opinion that the measure would do harm and not good that it was given up. Yet the discontent remained and I was still uneasy about the consequences. If this report is true it will greatly help me here. In England it will either produce war or greater respect for us. The former possibly (tho not probably) if invited [by] the rascals among ourselves. I think the probability is under all inducments that they will moderate and accommodate with you and whereby the republican party will under great & peculiar difficulties and without trouble vindicate its own honour and that of its country. Had this not been its credit was gone and the power of its adversary established.\nThe success of the French in Italy has been astonishingly great since the opening of the present campaign. Sardinia has obtained peace by surrendering Savoy & Nice & making other sacrifices. Parma has also obtained peace. Milan is in possession of the French, & Bauleau the Austrian Genl. after being defeated & with great losses, at least 10000 men killed & taken prisoners (& by whose defeat these effects were produc\u2019d) driven before Bonaparte the French Genl. to Mantua, where he holds a strong position for the present in the hope of reinforcments. All Italy is in consternation, and every power seeking to make the best terms it can. Tis said the French have entered Tuscany, & because the Gnd. Duke lately tolerated within his jurisdiction the violation of his neutrality by an Engh. ship of war upon a French one. The Engh. have made Leghorn a grand depot of magazines for all operations in that quarter & the French say, if you tolerate the breach of yr. neutrality agnst us you shall for us. The Pope has lately offer\u2019d as a condition of peace to write a letter to the people of the Vendee & endeavor to reconcile them to the republick, & for this purpose sent an agent here, but I am told the Directoire asked also, and in testimony of his sincerity, a considerable supply in money, wh. put the affr. for the present, ad referendum. On the Rhine the arm[i]stice ended yesterday & tis probable some severe rencontres may shortly take place there. Shod. the French prevail there as they have done in Italy, Engld. will remain in a short time the only party to the war agnst them. And I am told that the French armies were never in so good a state as they now are in that quarter.\nIn this state of things you have nothing to fear from her and everything to hope from decision. The best effect too is already felt here from what is already done. You observe by the treaty with Sardinia that France has attended to the interest of Holland and Genoa. This merits your attention. An American just from England says he heard Pinckny say he apprehended no bad effect from the vote of the House of Representatives. I submit my communications always to your judgment well knowing how safe the deposit is.\nWith respect to my recall I am ready for it tho I do not think it will be ventured on however strong the inclination for it may be with many. I sincerely regret the situation of the president but if his policy it will appear more so when contrasted with an opposite one.\nI have given Hichburn a letter of introduction to you as a staunch patriot from what I have seen here but enquire he was old when he left Boston.\nI have just recd. yours of the 25. & 26. of Jany. We are happy to hear yr. furniture had arrived. The silk mentioned was intended. They never make curtains here of late of damask & that sent is the best & most costly kind of silk next damask. It costs always near as much. The samples however mentioned were not recd. & I speak of what we saw presuming that was sent. Tis not improbable Mrs. Madison may dislike the taste or rather form of the bedstead &ca. If so you had better dispose of it in Phila. & we will send you other damask to be made up there. I hope you have before this yr. china, wh. you will find good & cheap. Tis not of the best kind. If you wish other inform me & it shall be sent tho\u2019 the price is much higher now. I think there ought to have been more than 25. ells in the pieces of silk sent you, tho\u2019 I will enquire into this. Our best wishes attend yrself & Mrs. M.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0247", "content": "Title: To James Madison from James Monroe, 5 July 1796\nFrom: Monroe, James\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nParis July 5. 1796.\nYesterday the Fourth of July was celebrated here by the Americans. I intended to have done it but having given them an entertainment last year they returned the compliment this. You will observe by the copy sent in that to the American government the term executive is used and not president. The course of the business was as follows. The project began first with the friends of the British treaty and fell through and was then taken up by its enemies and after wh. the others came in. But the first party had appointed a committee (or rather the second in order) and who conducted the business the majority of whom were for giving the Congress only or drinking no toasts. I told them if they wod. give the executive I supposed all would be satisfied and I would attend & wh. I could not otherwise well do. The first party however in order were not consulted or disliked what was done and when the toasts [were] gone thro one of them rose & proposed a volunteer in favor of G. Washington &c and which was opposed by some of the others. This made a noise here and perhaps will with you and as some slander may in consequence be leveled at me I therefore give you the facts. The ministers of France and the foreign ministers were present.\nI trouble you with another incident of the same kind. Paine having resolved to continue in Europe sometime longer & knowing it was inconvenient for me to keep him longer in my family & wishing also to treat on our politicks & which he could not well do in my house left me sometime since. He thinks the president winked at his imprisonment and even wished he might die in goal and bears him resentment for it. He thinks also he is shaping an attack upon him of the most virulent kind. Thro\u2019 a third person I have endeavoured to divert him from it without effect. It may be said I have instigated him but the above is the truth.\nBut to come now to a subject of more importance. I think myself ill treated here by the administration and doubt how to act in consequence of it so as to advance the publick interest without injuring my own character. The following is a literal extract from my instructions after many professions of the president\u2019s attachment to the French revolution. \u201cAnd to remove all jealousy with respect to Mr. Jay\u2019s mission to London you may say that he is positively forbidden to weaken the engagements between this country and France it is not improbable that you will be obliged to encounter on this head suspicions of various kinds but you may declare the motives of that mission to be to obtain immediate compensation for our plundered property and restitution of the posts.\u201d With much more in the same spirit\u2014an equivocation may be taken on the word motives but the true sense is a declaration that he had no other business there and which was otherwise.\nThe object I presume was to lay a good basis here by means of my mission and taking advantage of which and of the success of France which would procure us the respect of the English court make a barter for commercial stipulations of our faith and alliance with France and which probably would have succeeded had I not blown them up by discourse in the convention and by their own documents by means whereof that court lost all confidence in them thinking their professions insincere and of course that what it gave was given for nothing or had the negociator possessed as capable a head as he did a corrupt heart.\nSince the ratification of the treaty by the president I have received but three letters from the Department of State and which were from Timothy Pickering and the last now six months old and these were not of a very conciliatory kind\u2014after denying that this government had any right to complain of the treaty he adds that the article respecting contraband inserted the old list only by way of admonition to our people to avoid danger. That the provision article was useful to us as it paid us for contraband and in respect to other seizures that we were the only judges whether we would go to war for cause or otherwise accomodate the difficulty & would never consult another power on that head, and without any profession of regard for this country or explanation of future views breaks off the subject & thus ends it.\nThis tone may proceed either from a desire to court a rupture with this country or be the effect of wounded pride: and it would be natural to ascribe it to the last cause if the president had not owned that the ratification of the treaty hazarded a war here and if policy did not dictate as the way to avoid it a more conciliating one: or if he was not conciliating thro G. Morris at the same moment the court of England: or if the gasconade business of the flag had not been a desultory movement calculated to deceive the people of America while it gave disgust here or if a different tone had not been assumed in my instructions before the issue of the treaty with England was known and whilst appearances here were necessary to obtain a favorable issue. These considerations make the motive of this conduct more doubtful than it otherwise wod. be.\nIt is however the interest of America to avoid a rupture here and I have in consequence done all in my power to prevent it and I think and without vanity with some effect. If things stand as they do here & our administration changes everything will come right. A new treaty may be formed here of a different stamp from that with England & which will not only tie the two republicks closer together than they were ever before and by ties of interest but by contrasting its credit and advantage with that of the other by reviving the friendship and harmony with this country which was nearly gone and which is desired by our citizens completely relieve us our present dangers and difficulties and ruin the aristocrat faction. But if you do not change the administration odium lies with the Republican party who will always be branded as anarchists and the present administration continuing and the interest of the two nations requiring it and surmounting all obstacles a new treaty will be formed here under its auspices and which tho less favorable than might otherwise be obtained will serve as a colouring whereby to deceive posterity as to the nature of the crisis we have passed as well as many of the present day with respect to the merits of the contending parties\u2014still however I consider it as the effect of passion only for Washington is an honest man.\nI have suffered much personal mortification here and for reasons that are obvious and should demand my recall did I not think that my continuance for some time longer was somewhat necessary in the views above suggested. And did I not wish rather to be recalled than to demand it, for in the last case I am to defend my character to my country and which I would do by a publication of my whole correspondence instructions & the like, and which I could not otherwise well do; how long I shall be able to bear my situation I can\u2019t say. I will bear it however till I hear from you in reply to this or until the ensuing elections shall confirm in office the present tenants.\nI should like much to make a new treaty with this government after things are settled on both sides because I think a good one might be made for both countries: and in my opinion here is the place to make it\u2014let the trust be committed to a minister in Philadelphia and his own credit is the object. But appeal to the government itself and a different spirit may be found. And having borne the storm whilst my efforts were employed only to prevent disunion I should like to have an opportunity to promote union. However this is of no consequence.\nI most earnestly hope that Mr. Jefferson will be elected and that he will serve\u2014if he is elected every thing will most probably be right here from that moment and afterwards on the other side of the channel. And in my opinion there never was such an opportunity offered for the acquisition of great fame in the restoration of national credit abroad and at home as is now presented, independant of the gratification an honest mind will always feel in rendering useful service to his country. He will be able at the same time that he secures the preponderance of republican councils and gives stability to republican government to conciliate the well meaning of the other party and thus give peace to his country.\nIn a few words I give you the state of the war. All Italy is in truth subjugated, & peace made with all the powers (either by definitive treaties or provisional agreements) Naples excepted, & who has an Envoy now on the road to treat also. They have all paid or agreed to pay considerable sums, given up pictures, the most celebrated pieces of art, and in truth accepted their authorities from this govt. The representative of St. Peter has agreed to pay 21. millions of livres for the provisional suspension of arms, to give up 100. pictures & 300. manuscripts: to exclude the British from his ports &ca &ca. The French have entered the territory of the Gd. Duke & put a garrison in Leghorn, upon the principle that the Englh. held it, & had violated agnst France the neutrality of Tuscany. In entering they laid hold of \u27e8all the english\u27e9 p\u27e8rope\u27e9rty they cod. find wh. they say was worth 7. or 8. millions of livres. And upon the Rhine the same good fortune has attended the French arms. In several engagments the French have prevailed, & seem now to have gained a complete preponderance. In short their success seems to be complete, so much so however as to threaten ruin to the Emperor if he does not make peace, & which is therefore in all probability now at hand. Engld. will be reserved for the last, & agnst whom the resentment of this country if not encreased by its tyde of good fortune is certainly not diminished. Projects are spoken of in regard to that country, wh. never seemed to merit attention before, but wh. now & especially if a peace is made with the Emperor, assume a more serious aspect. You will conjecture these & therefore I will not mention them.\nJuly 31.\nThis is the third copy I have sent you of the above, or rather this is the original of the two already forwarded. Since the above the scene has varied but little in any respect. The French continue to hold their superiority on the Rhine, but press forward with great circumspection, the Austrians retiring to strong positions, protecting their retreat by the strong fortifications wh. line the rivers which empty into the Rhine, on its right bank; & protecting in turn those fortifications. Frankfort is taken by the French, & upon wh. city an imposition was laid of 35 millions of florins, but wh. it is thought cannot be paid.\nThis will be committed to Dr Edwards & who will hasten home as fast as circumstances will permit. He is possessed of very extensive and correct information of affrs. here, as well in regard to those wh. concern this republick & the war in general, as our own affrs., & to him therefore I refer you for such details as are not here communicated.\nFrom what I learn from the bearer of this and notwithstanding my efforts to prevent it Paine will probably compromit me by publishing some things which he picked up while in my house. It was natural unaided as I have been here or rather harassed from every quarter that I talk with this man but it was not so to expect that he would commit such a breach of confidence as well as of ingratitude\u2014perhaps it may appear to proceed from other sources if so my name will not be involved and that is greatly to be wished: but otherwise the above is the state of facts.\nUpon no point but in my relations with either government am I personally uneasy let what may happen and this is a thing of personal delicacy more than any thing else.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0248", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Hubbard Taylor, 16 July 1796\nFrom: Taylor, Hubbard\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nSpringhill 16th. July 1796\nI wrote you not long since by Capt: H. Lee to be left in Orange, which I suppose you have recd. ee\u2019r this. I also wrote Mrs. payne and inclosed it to you. Since that time I have seen Mr. E. Bullock, he has recd. Mrs. paynes letter inclosing her husbands Will, and he told me he would write Mrs. payne very shortly.\nI have not as yet secured the connected platt of our lands that interferes with Mays entry a copy of which I sent you in the Letter above mentioned; when I get it I will do as I have promised.\nMr. John Brown arrived here only a few days ago, when I see him expect to receive the Money you Mentioned, to be paid me, for your use. Its probable the post of Detroit is given up before this; the one on the Miami is certainly in possission of our Troops.\nWe now have a real peace with the Indians which is the only time we could have said as much since the American revolution commenced. How long this is to last I leave to better judges than my self to say, for my own part I fear not a great while.\nThe time is drawing near that electors are to be chosen to elect a presedent & Vice presedent. The minds of the people in this country seems a good deal agitated for the event of those important appointments. If the old president still inclines to serve it will, possibly split our votes, (that is) if certain men get elected\u2014otherwise the vote will, (as its generally b[e]lieved) be unanimous for Mr. Jefferson as the president, the Vice presedent is not so much spoken of. In your next letter I will thank you to mention the Current oppinion who will be voted for on the occation, & should you also think proper to give me a hint of your wish in the choice I will endeavour to lend my little aid in forwarding them, by the choice of those men who may concur in opinion with you.\nOur crops of small grain have come in much better than they have ever done in this country. And notwithstanding the extream cold and backward spring our crops of Corn are very promising. We shall therefore be enabled to furnish a considerable exportation down the River if there should be adventurers under the late treaty, as well as to spare to the emigrants that may venture among us this fall, a plentifull supply on moderate terms.\nThe mode of disposing of the lands on the No Western side of the Ohio, is not very pleasing to the people in Kentuckey, particularly those who wish to become purchasers. It will undoubtedly raise the price of the lands in this state, and will most certainly put it in the power of her legislature to dispose of the vacant land she has to great advantage, both as to price and acquiring inhabitants, the Latter assuredly aught to be the primary object with her.\nI add no more than my respects to y\u27e8our\u27e9 Lady and Fathers family and that \u27e8i am\u27e9 with great esteem and regard Dr. Sir Yr: Affe. Hble Sert:\nH. Taylor", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0249", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Fulwar Skipwith, 27 July 1796\nFrom: Skipwith, Fulwar\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nParis 27 July 1796\nThe letter which I now take the liberty of transmitting under cover hereof, I had intended to address particularly to you; but it occurring to me that you may have reasons for not wishing to incur the risk of being thought interested or concerned in its publication as well as of the documents inclosed therewith, I have left its address in blank; requesting that you will have the goodness to use your own judgment in directing it for me to Mr Bache or some friend who will undertake to have the whole published, should you think such a step necessary to undeceive those who may have made or heard wrong interpretations of my conduct in respect to the affair in question; otherwise I could wish the whole to be surpressed, having no desire to promote a discussion or question of my conduct thro\u2019 the channel of a public Newspaper. With very sincere regard and respect I am Dear Sir Your Mo Huml Servant\nFulwar Skipwith\n[Enclosure]\nTo Mr Sir\nParis 26 July 1796\nI hear that the loss of part of the money (about 22,834 Livers tournois) which was committed to my care by the American Minister here, to be remitted to our Bankers in Holland on account of the United States, has exposed me in some circles with you, to the charge of neglect or other mismanag\u2019ment in that transaction, and to which cause I am told \u2019tis said that loss was owing. As this is an absolute falsity I have felt much mortified to hear of this aspersion, not being one of those who can bear calumnies with indiffirence, and perhaps because they are calumnies. I have therefore taken the liberty to transmit to you all the documents which belong to my part of this transaction, and by which it will appear, that the utmost possible care was taken of the money that I could take of it, and of course that the robbery which was committed on my office, and by means whereof it was lost, was an event against which no human precaution could provide: that I undertook the business without compensation altho I was intitled to some having no pay from our Government for the office which I hold, and this being a mercantile transaction exposing me to risk and much trouble: that in truth I had much trouble in it, and lastly that the money robbed was the identical money received on account of the United States from the Treasury of France. I have taken the liberty I say to transmit to you those documents, as the means of vindicating me against those calumnies, provided indeed they have ever been circulated, and in such mode as you shall deem most eligible. If you think that a publication of them is necessary for that purpose, \u2019tis my wish that they be published, for as nothing is more false than any imputation of the kind, so \u2019tis my wish to expose by a public refutation the authors of it, provided you think the occasion merits so much notice. Excuse the trouble I give you in this affair and which I do only from the confidence I have in your candor and love of justice\u2014being with the greatest respect and esteem Sir Your Mo Ob Servant\nFulwar Skipwith", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0250", "content": "Title: Deed of Sale, 29 July 1796 (Abstract)\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n29 July 1796, Orange County, Virginia. Indenture by which Boswell Thornton and his wife Lucy of Orange County sold to JM for \u00a325 eight acres of Orange County land adjoining Nathaniel Gordon\u2019s property, \u201cwith all woods, waters, quarries of lime and other stone and the Reversions and remainders to the same appertaining.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0251", "content": "Title: To James Madison from James Monroe, 1 August 1796\nFrom: Monroe, James\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nParis Augt 1 1796.\nThis with other letters & papers are committed to Dr. Edwards for you, & to whom I beg to refer you upon many points of importance for the most correct information; I have long known him, & from the confidence I have in his principles as well as discretion, have communicated very freely with him, & therefore refer you to him as to an authority pure, & a person to be confided in. Indeed there is no topic connected with our affrs. that he has not accurate information on, and therefore I think it will be well for you to see him as soon as possible.\nI sent lately by a young American from N. Yk. a copy of my correspondence with our bankers for you, upon the subject of the remittance by the department of our treasury committed to my care, & I now send you another & more complete copy of that correspondence. I wish I had done this six months since, but really it never entered my head to take a precaution of the kind, for knowing how attentive I had been to that trust, & how much trouble it had given me, at a time too when I had other & more important concerns to attend to, I was naturally looking to that department for other sentiments towards me, than those I hear it has cherished and even circulated. I have a letter from Mr. W. of the 14. of April acknowledging the rect. of the substancial part of this correspondence, & to wh. (as I presume it arrivd abt. ten days before), it is probable the suppression of those malignant whispers was in part owing. But you now have the means of confounding the low authors of these low insinuations, and therefore I feel no further concern on that head: you will of course either bury the low business in oblivion, shew the correspondence to those who have heard the whispering, or act more decisively according to yr. judgment. If I get safe out of the hands of these people, I shall think my stars will guide me afterwards safe thro any rocks and quicksands that may impede my way.\nAnd in reply to the charge of speculation &ca I send you the affidavit of Mr. Sk: to prove that if I have done it, it was never thro him. When I arrived here Swan was the agent of France in purchasing the cargoes of Americans, and the agent of the Americans in selling their cargoes to France. He was their agent also (for morris was nothing) in soliciting the settlement of spoliation claims &ca, and in consequence having a good understanding with some of the subaltern agents in the commercial branch of this govt., procured in some instances an adjustment of those claims as I believe, upon terms very favorable to himself and his associates, but not so perhaps either to the claimants or this govt. In short I never saw so abhorrent a spectacle as was exhibited in this line, & in wh. he was the principal party. For independant of the objections stated above, our trade was a monopoly in the hands of this society, not a single cargo being allowed by law to be sold to individuals or otherwise than to the govt., nor cod. one well be sold thro any other channel to the govt. There never was before perhaps any precedent of the kind for Bingham\u2019s in the west Indias was comparatively on a small scale. I made an effort to break this charm & eventually broke it, by nominating Mr. Skipwith to the consulate, thereby presenting to the Americans an official responsable organ thro\u2019 wh. their claims might be brot. to the view of this govt., procuring to myself a suitable intermediatory as well between them as this govt., and by means whereof dishonorable practices might be avoided in every line, much method introduc\u2019d in all our measures upon those concerns, & particularly & by the means of reports from the consul to me, a suitable basis be laid for all my applications to this govt. where it was necessary for me to apply for redress. I also demanded that the ports shod. be open to our trade & each man be left at liberty to sell his own cargo to individuals if it comported with the interest of the govt, otherwise to the agents of the govt. & at the ports. I actually wrote essays upon this subject in my notes to this government for surely there never was such a state of things as existed in this country upon my arrival. Soon too I began to produce an effect, & in consequence the hold wh. this corps had upon our trade began to be loosened. In this state this man made another effort to retain his ground (or rather he made it when he first heard that I contemplated the measures above stated) by endeavoring to detach Mr. Sk: from the consulate offering him an establishment at Havre, by way of partnership in his house, with the advance of immense funds, & wh. Mr. Sk: considering as very favorable to him hesitated abt. the acceptance of, & consulted me thereon. I immediately saw into the object & asked him in case he did accept the offer, whom I shod. appoint as consul? To this part of the business he had paid no attention & of course he cod. give no reply. I then told him that if he accepted the offer & became a partner of that house I shod. of course not nominate him as consul, since instead of bringing abt. the reform I sought, I shod. on the contrary thereby confirm & by a new & official sanction the vicious state wh. I wished to cure. He said he of course shod. abandon all idea of that office for himself since he was to remove to Havre in case he accepted the partnership. That with respect to any other appointment he had nothing to say, since he was equally of my opinion, I ought to appoint no one to the office belonging to that house. I then explained to him my suspicion of the views of that man, solving the reason why he had contracted such a friendship for him, upon so short an acquaintance, & told him as a matter of curiosity, in their next conversation abt. their proposed partnership, to touch upon the subject of the consulate & ask who wod. take it in case he declined. Mr. Sk: did so & found it was hoped or expected that it wod. be given to Higginson of Boston likewise a partner of the house. Thus this affr. was completely explained, & wh. my correspondence to our govt. at the time in regard to the state of our trade &ca comprehending whatever was of a publick nature, likewise fully explained.\nI have given you this detail to trace to you the probable source from whence these calumnies proceed or future calumnies may proceed: For it was not reasonable to presume I shod. escape them after the above circumstances, from that source. No one can detect & break up such a system without making enemies: but happily the ground on wh. I stand is of a nature to baffle their attacks: slander may do harm for a moment, considering how far I am off; & untill the refutation arrives, but it cannot do permanent injury.\nAnother source from whence something of the kind may have proceeded, or may proceed, I think proper to trace. Our govt. nominated a Mr. Pitcairn of New-Yk. an Englh. emigrant of a few years standing, and in consequence a Bh. subject also, to the office of V consul for this city. Such an appointment will I think surprise you when it is considered that these countries are at war, that the characters of official agents are objects of systematic enquiry here as they are in all European govts., and that it could not otherwise than produce an ill effect towards us in the councils of this govt. & wh. ought to have been avoided for more reasons that [sic] one at the present time. I remonstrated immediately agnst the appointment, stating fully the above objections to it, & observing to the govt. that I shod. not obtain his recognition untill those objections were weighed & I instructed in consequence therof, & since wh. I have heard nothing from the govt. on the subject. The young man who is a well behaved man enough, has rested on this ground for a twelve month, & in the interim neither T. P. nor his predecessor have had energy of character sufficient, either to revoke his comn., or order me to recognize him, tho\u2019 I believe infinite discontent exists in the bosom of the latter on acct. of my omitting to it, & who I hear tells old McCormick of New Yk. Pitcairns uncle that orders are given me to that effect. It wod. not be surprising that T. P. & the friends of this person, shod. endeavor to ascribe my conduct upon this occasion to different motives than the true ones, but the above is the true motive, & se[e]ing as I do see a real mischief to our country in placing a Bh. subject in office (tho\u2019 lately become an american citizen) in the immediate presence of this govt.; one too who visits Engld. every two or three months where he has mercantile connections, I shall certainly never swerve from the part I have taken in this respect untill I have a positive order so to do. We are a nation or Engh. colonies, & if the former we ought to be true to that character.\nWith respect to speculating thro any other channel I declare to you, unless the purchase of the house in wh. I live is such, & wh. I bought derectly myself & soon after my arrival & of the proprietor who now lives, that nothing is more false. I saw no greater impropriety in purchasing the house in wh. I resided, on that score, than in renting it: and in respect to this govt. it was calculated to produce a good effect in encreasing its confidence in me, & which was wanting to any American minister here at the time & is still wanting. Besides after my introduction to the Convention I was offered a house by this govt., & thought it not improbable an arrangment might take place between the two govts (as now exists between this & Holland), whereby each might obtain in the other a house for its minister. It was always my intention wh. however I mention confidentially before I heard of this slander, to offer this house to our govt. when I withdrew, and upon its own terms, either paying what I gave, or having it valued by suitable persons & paying that valuation the latter of wh. it is true I shod. expect & of this intention even from the moment of the purchase there are many Americans who heard me speak at the time. In this intended proposition I thought I shod. do a liberal thing, & I mention it to you now as a fact connected with my views in the purchase, but wh. were so only in the light suggested. Whether I shall make the proposal after what I hear will depend much on yr. advice, & for wh. purpose I mention the subject to you. I might speculate in national domains & I presume make immense sums but I have not nor will I. Nor have I bought nor shall I buy any thing here but books my furniture, & some trifling articles such as glass &ca for a building I intend some time or other to erect on my farm in Virga. I think our minister here ought to have a house provided by the govt. & in that case this is well suited, being in a pleasant retired part of the city, with a good garden &ca. But this will depend now on many other things of much greater importance.\nAugt. 5. I find that this govt. has actually issued orders for the seizure of neutral vessels to take effect when the Englh. do it, & of course I presume immediately. They have also appointed Mangourit with the grade of charg\u00e9 des affaires to the United States and which I conclude is designed to insult our government you know he was consul at Charleston under Genet and worse than Genet. Seven months have now passed since I from T. P. and the general tone of that and a preceding letter all that I have received from him that merit the name were rather in terms of defiance to this government than conciliation. If this administration continues or its spirit is transmitted into other hands I wish immediately to return. But yet I have been so ill treated by the [administration], its conduct varying so essentially from my instructions that I think I owe to myself a vindication of my own conduct by the publication of my whole correspondence would this be right and in that case were it not better that I forced them to recall me. Since the ratification of the treaty a year has elapsed & during wh. time no step whatever was taken by this government. This was time enough for conciliatory councils by treaty or otherwise were they intended.\nThis letter was closed, but I open it to acknowledge the rect. of yours of the 20. of May, and likewise to add that I am rather inclined to think it will be best to have published the whole of the correspondence sent you, with the bankers, as the affidavit of Mr. Skipwith with some others that I send you. You may likewise introduce it by publishing the 2d. paragraph (or the whole of this letter if you please) in this letter to you modified as you chuse, as to a friend, with such introductory comments as you please.\nI find by a paper from Tazewell that insinuations are made that (& Perhaps I am meant) a party of Americans here are provoking the French to acts of hostility agnst us. Of all infamous calumnies this is the most infamous. This shews how necessary it is for me to put in the hands of the true organs of the publick sentiment, a copy of every thing I do, as a guarantee agnst the attacks of those who are not; with this view therefore I send you a copy of my correspondence with the minister of foreign affrs. upon this subject, & by wh. you will see how much I have hasarded myself upon this occasion to repress the Designs of this govt. agnst. us, & of course how little I deserve the imputation. Possessing these Documents you may be bold in contradicting the calumnies, in affirming that the admn. have contrary proofs & are therefore the authors of them if they do not contradict them, or recall me, wh. in truth I wish them to do: & wh. nothing will prevent their doing but the want of spirit to do it, & wh. proceeds from their knowledge of the ground upon wh. we respectively stand.\nIt is a sentiment very common & very natural among good men, to avoid dissipating scandal by newspaper discussion, lest possibly doubts may thereby be created where none existed before. But this modest timidity I am satisfied is often carried too far, & to the injury of the soundest reputations, for it often happens that the slanders wh. are thus circulated in whispers, poison where the antidote never extends, & wh. might be avoided by a publick discussion, provoked by the injured person himself or his friends. Armed therefore as you now are with the most solid proofs that can be furnished, of the purity of my conduct; proofs wh. are (if I may so express myself) positive to prove a negative, I submit it to your judgment whether the bold & decisive council had not better be pursued, & whether it will not even produce a good effect, by confounding the authors of these calumnies & exposing their turpitude, upon other & more important events depending in our country. If published it will be proper, to arrange more in order the correspondence sent you, than is here done: putting the letters to the Secry. of the treasury first, & those with the minister of foreign affrs. &ca in their place. It is also submitted to you whether it ought not to be published in a pamphlet as well as in the newspapers, or in either only, provided a publication is deemed proper, all the expences attending wh. I shall of course defray.\nEven if a publication is deemed adviseable, will it not be proper, to call on the Secry. of the Treasury thro\u2019 some suitable person to demand of him whether the calumnies agnst me are true or not; even get his certificate & publish that also: or to write him & publish his answer, observing that if his answer was published, my correspondence ought to be also, for upon the latter I rest my credit and not the former.\nIn reviewing the correspondence &ca it appeared that a further explanation with Mr. Van Staphorst here why the draft on the house at Hamburg was not sent forward was necessary he having absolutely conducted the whole business, & in consequence I wrote him a letter on that head & to wh. I recd. a reply both of wh. are enclosed, & wh. may either be annexed & follow the disposition of the other papers or not as you think fit.\nIn all things it will be well to act in harmony with Dr. Edwards who possesses perfect information, & is sound in his principles, at least such is my opinion of him.\nYou will observe that the amt of the money lost, is not more than an ordinary comn wod. have been in the hands of a banker or any other person than Mr. Skipwith; or very little more.\nYou will of course confer with my friends Mr. Jefferson & Mr. Jones if occasion offers.\n6. I have slept a night upon the above & return back to that state of modest timidity wh. I blamed above. In short I rather think that these low & despicable calumnies are beneath my notice, since they are only the last despairing efforts of a profligate party, who in its extremities has no other means of saving itself than by slandering its foes who are the friends of private morality & publick honor. In short does any thing coming from T. P. or O. W. merit my notice or that of any other respectable citizen? And of course is it worth my while to make a great affair, of a very little one and at my own expence? If these rascals will come out with any charge let them, & then you have the means of my defense, shewing these in the interim to whom you please. And I declare to you I had rather in their low circle, be slanderd by them than praised. Indeed their praise I deem slander, at the tribunal of the moral world. However it is agn. submitted to you what had better be done.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0252", "content": "Title: From James Madison to James Madison, Sr., 10 August 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Madison, James, Sr.\nHond Sir\nYou will learn from Sam that we all continue much as when you left us. I was down at the Mill yesterday & found the work going on properly. It is of importance however that the abutment should be well secured before much rain comes; as it is found that a small swell in the river will accumulate at the dam so as to overflow it; and as the dam is rather higher than the Bank of the river, the water in that case will be very troublesome to the unfinished work. Frailey had not returned, but several hands, Garten & others, had joined the force working on the Mill. Melton had the good fortune to have all his hay stacked the evening before the rain set in. The fall of water since the 6th. has been 1 6/8 inches. We have heard nothing from my sister Madison more than that she had proceeded from Mr. Macon\u2019s for Norfolk. This account was brought by Col. Barbour returned from Richmond. I send a bundle of the last Northern papers. Dolly unites in best affections to my mother & yourself. If we should be able to pay you a visit it will be in the course of the next week. Yr. affe. son\nJs. Madison Jr.\nMr. Howard has been here, and examined the Clock without perceiving any thing amiss. On making her strike she struck truly; & has continued to do so ever since. So that it is probable the cause lay in the position of the pallet which happened to be rectified by his moving it.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0253", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Timothy Pickering, 19 August 1796\nFrom: Pickering, Timothy\nTo: Madison, James\n(private)\nSir,\nDepartment of State August 19. 1796.\nLast week I received the inclosed letter dated Pisa 24th March 1796, addressed to \u201cEdmund Randolph Esqr. Secretary of Congress, Philadelphia,\u201d from Filippo Mazzei, covering one to you, and yours covering one to Mr. Jefferson, of the same date. I opened the first of course, as a public letter; and the other two were not sealed. Not understanding the Italian language, I went in the evening to a friend, to read & give me the purport of that to Mr. Randolph. I then laid by the packet, intending to ask Mr. Taylor if he had any knowledge of the subject or of M. Mazzei: but till a day or two since I forgot to make the enquiry. Mr. Taylor looked, but did not find Mr. Mazzei\u2019s name. Yesterday, recurring to the packet for the purpose of forwarding it by this day\u2019s mail, and again opening the letter to Mr. Randolph, I observed the name of Mr. Jefferson, & \u201cbills on the contingent fund,\u201d in the same paragraph; which still led me to think it possible that the letters might relate to some official transaction; & therefore last evening I requested the same friend to read & give me the purport of all the letters. I then perceived that they related to some pecuniary affairs very interesting to M. Mazzei, & that his wants rendered him extremely importunate to receive his monies, for his support in his old age; the capital in preference; otherwise a handsome annuity, proportioned to his few remaining years of life. The mention in his letter to Mr. Randolph of \u201c4 bills on the contingent fund,\u201d which he gave to Mr. R. on the road between Williamsburg and Richmond, but of which he had since heard nothing, showed that part of his demands were against Mr. Randolph himself. Hence seeing M. Mazzei meant by his letters to you and Mr. Jefferson to interest you both, as his particular friends, to obtain the payment of his dues, which he so often repeats were essential to his subsistence, I thought it a duty towards a stranger, with whose pecuniary necessities I became thus accidentally acquainted, not to make his debtor the sole depositary of his claims. I therefore inclose all the letters to you, that there may be a certainty that you and Mr. Jefferson may receive your own. With great respect, I am sir, your most obt. servant\nTimothy Pickering.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0255", "content": "Title: To James Madison from James Monroe, 1 September 1796\nFrom: Monroe, James\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nParis September 1st. 1796.\nThis government has at last and against my utmost efforts to prevent it sent an order to their minister to withdraw giving for reason our treaty with England and declaring that the customary relations between the two nations shall cease. I have no official communication and can\u2019t be more particular. After deliberating about seven months they resolved that the honour of their country would be tarnished in their hands if they acted otherwise. They say I have detained them seven months from doing what they ought to have done at once. It is impossible to foresee the consequences of this measure which I sincerely regret but here no change can be expected and of course if the same councils prevail in America the alliance is at an end not to count the other injuries we shall receive from the loss of this nation so preponderant as it is; with such valuable possessions in our seas. I do not know whether my functions are suspended\u2014in any event I must wait the orders of our government. At this moment I receive a letter from Timothy in reply to my first on this subject addressed as from an overseer to the foreman of his gang ascribing (if not absolutely the existence of any complaint to me) yet that it is altogether owing to my misconduct that it broke out since I had acknowledged a from him three months before which he says proved they had no right [to] complain\u2014hence he concludes that I suppressed that luminous work. To this I have yet given no answer nor do I at present propose. It will occur to you that I could not defend the treaty till there was a charge brought against it and to prevent which was always the object of my efforts. Delay therefore was always favorable. This letter corresponds so much with the publication in the New York paper that it tends to create a suspicion they were written by the same hand but these little Connecticut jockey tricks were too easily seen thro\u2019 now a days to produce any effect. Poor Washington into what hands has he fallen.\nThe above is gone by another rout.\nI have seen authentic documents to prove that G. Morris is at Berlin negociating to engage that court to take part against France and that he expends much money there in that business which is concluded to be British money as he is concluded to be a British agent\u2014from Berlin he proceeds to Vienna. I saw this in a letter from a Dutch agent at Berlin to a Dutch commissary here, respecting wh. however you shall hear from me again.\nThe French troops gain daily new victori[e]s in the empire, being now within two days march of Ratisbon: & the Austrians retreating. At Ratisbon it is said that the armies of Jourdan & Moreau are to meet, & according to the original plan of the campaign to proceed towards Vienna. With Spn. an alliance offensive & defensive is concluded, & wh. embarks her in the war of course agnst. Engld.; & Prussia it is thought inclines to the same scale, being the preponderating one, & with a view of lopping off something from the empire & making it her own: such as Hamburg &ca. It is believed to be in contemplation between this govt. & Spn. to unite Portugal to the latter, with a view of rescuing that country from the hands of the British. I do suspect that Louisiana belongs to France by secret articles in her late treaty with Spn. Thus you see to what a wonderful height the fortunes of this country have already risen, & promise still to rise, since the new govt. daily gains strength in the affection & confidence of the people, whilst the surrounding govts. are tottering & menac\u2019d with a fall.\nSepr. 6. I just hear that the plan of seizing our vessels having Englh. property will be carried into effect and that Spain are likely to pursue the same policy\u2014in truth if we do not change our councils we shall be in a terrible state.\nThe army of Jourdan pressing on Ratisbon inducd P. Charles to draw 25.000. men from that before Moreau to his, to oppose Jourdan, & wh. occasioned the latter to retreat abt. 30. miles, at wh. moment Moreau made a stroke at the other weakened army & routed it taking 2000. prisoners & killing many. \u2019Tis said Jourdan is agn. on the offensive. His loss is not known in the retreat, but not deemed considerable. In publishing my correspondence if that is thought adviseable, would you publish my private letter also to Randolph wh. you have seen.\n16. Bounaparte has gained another considerable victory near Trent, taking 5000 prisoners\u2014Moreau has also gained one of some importance. Jourdan it is said wearied out with fatigue asks repose, & that Bournonville will replace him.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0256", "content": "Title: To James Madison from James Yard, 9 September 1796\nFrom: Yard, James\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nPhilada. Sepr. 9. 1796\nI am very Sorry that your Letter came too late to arrest the intended progress of yr. funds to the Hands of Van Stophorst. On the 12th. Ulto. I remitted the Draft of pragers for f7719 Hd Curry. which @ 3 f \u214c Ga. amounts to $3087.00.\nI recd. a Letter from Mr Monroe by a Vessel which brought your Box of China to Wilmington. A few Days after, it was brought up & landed on our Wharf in such a crazy State that I apprehended much Damage & concluded to have it unpacked without hazarding further Movements\u2014fortunately it was so well packed that it came out in excellent Condition & is now at my House. Mrs. Yard unites with me in Complts to you & your Lady. Very respectfuly Dr sir Your obdt servt\nJames Yard", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0258", "content": "Title: To James Madison from James Monroe, 19 September 1796\nFrom: Monroe, James\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nParis Sepr. 19. 1796.\nFrom what I see in an American newspaper and what Dr. Edwards writes me from London it is probable the English faction with us will endeavor to impose on the publick the belief of an intrigue between some men in America [and] this government to prevail on the latter to interfere in our interior and to make Major Fulton the organ\u2014nothing is more false\u2014the man has come here to get paid what was due him in Genet\u2019s time, and also to Clark\u2014and in which I hear he does not succeed. This government hesitates as I hear to take Louisiana lest it should permanently weaken the between France and the United States\u2014much less therefore wod. they dabble in a business of that kind. The above principle operates with force even at the present moment, when it is naturally weaker than at any other period. Besides the man is not a fit agent for such a business. He appears to be a worthy well tempered person, but well satisfied I am he has no trust unless it is to sell land or some such one. Be assured he has no communication with any person of weight here or was ever heard of by them. I have thought proper to add the above as a supplement to my last, & to add further that Jourdan is still on the retreat, and that Bournonville is spoken of for his successor. Wonderful is the conflict in this hemisphere, and its issue always incertain, tho\u2019 greatly preponderant has Fr: been so far during the campaign, and from wh. nothing has detracted except the reverse with the army under Jourdan wh. it is to be hoped is only temporary. As this government has no confidence in ours I have been able to shelter the last only by the virtues of the patriotic party upon whose ground it is known I stand & whose sentiments I have said I spake. One of yr. letters was of great use to me in this respect. Tell me ought I to resign. I had much rather withdraw. This man Fulton talks of the principal characters here without knowing them and I suspect was attended to much by my friends in America by reason of his talking so much of me but this was wrong because he had no introductory letters from me\u2014tho in as far as I know a good sort of man\u2014by this however he gained a consequence he ought not to have. It were hard at the moment when by the virtue of Republican party war has so far been prevented that party should be charged with attempting to bring it on.\nI enclose you a paper wh. gives the most brilliant acct. of Bounaparte\u2019s late victories in the Tyrol by wh. he has just taken 16.000 prisoners & ruined agn. Wurmsers army. Moreau gives too by yesterday\u2019s courier the most flattering accts. of his situation & progress & Jourdan\u2019s situation ceases now to be dangerous. In addition to wh. Bournonville is on the march to join him with 25.000. men. The Directoire are firm & in high spirits as indeed they ought to be.\nBe assured if Pinkny is put in any place he goes with the other party he is a good man.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0260", "content": "Title: To James Madison from James Monroe, 26 September 1796\nFrom: Monroe, James\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nParis Sepr 26. 1796.\nThe state of affrs. remains nearly the same since my last: except that upon the Rhine or rather in the intr. of Germany since the check of Jourdan or perhaps complete defeat & wh. I rather presume, the progress is impeded, & in Italy Bounaparte has gained another victory taking 5000. prisoners & driving Wurmser into Mantua where he is closely besieged. I think I mentioned to you in my last that he had just before taken 16000. & that Bournonville was on his rout from Holland at the head of 25000 men to join & supersede Jourdan.\nI have answered Tim\u2019s letter refuting what he says by argument and leaving it so. He has also wrote an insolent letter to Skipwith and which he has answered with force and contemptuous defiance. Fulton also has written also a commentary upon the publication in the New York paper which he intends for Bache\u2019s paper and which is harsh he says the presumed letter from Paris is a forgery\u2014that he never received it nor was it written to him\u2014and the other letter to which it refers and which was intended to quiet the western people from the knowledge he had of that I was doing everything in my power to serve them was purloined from the post office as he presumes by Tim. Skipwith sends the letters from Berlin respecting G. Morris for publication. I hope this scene of rascality will open the people\u2019s eyes and rid you of that old tool and dotard for with him I presume the contest will be.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0261", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Alexander White, 26 September 1796\nFrom: White, Alexander\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nWashington 26th. Septemr. 1796\nI should not have disturbed your repose with anything of a private nature, nor indeed with the affairs of this City, which has more than ever been the object of our joint labours, had I not been assured that you have the inclination, and believed that you have the power further to promote its interest, and with it the interest and honour of the U. States. The establishment of a National University is a measure the utility of which seems to meet with general approbation\u2014that the seat of Goverment is the proper place for such an institution will hardly be contested; it is an object which the President has much at heart, he has made a Donation of 50 shares in the Patowmack Company towards its support, and will appropriate a hansome site for the Buildings in the City of Washington. He has it in contemplation (but has not yet determined) to bring the subject before Congress. Should he do so, what ought to be proposed in the present state of things? A grant of money I fear would be refused. Shall we ask an Act authorising subscriptions? What assurance should that Act give, that the money subscribed shall be faithfully applied, and the institution finally completed? I shall enter no further into the detail meaning only to draw your attention to the subject generally. I think this a favourable crisis to bring it forward, as it is the last Session in which Washington will preside, his recommendation will make a greater impression than that of any future President can do, or than his own would have done at any former period. It will be felt as the last request of a departing Friend.\nAnother measure not unconnected with this has lately been suggested; it is the establishment of a botanical Garden. There is a large space left by the Plan of the City for pleasure grounds\u2014extending from the Presidents Square to the Capitol, extremely well calculated for this purpose; it would be no deviation from the original intention so to apply a part of it. Pray think of this too, if it deserves attention.\nI flatter myself no hopes, and few if any wishes remain to defeat the Seat of Goverment; every day gives it additional Strength. The Spanish Minister has applied to the President for a Site on which to erect a House for the Minister of his Nation; and it is expected the example will be followed by the Portugese and British Ministers; the former is expected here in a few days.\nOur Public Buildings are well advanced\u2014the Stone and Brick Work of the first Story of the Capitol are nearly finished; and the Presidents House will be ready to receive the roof before the building Season ends. Upwards of thirty Brick Houses have been commenced during the present Summer, and a great proportion of them already covered in, Many Wooden Houses have also been built and tenanted since the regulation prohibiting their erection has been done away. I shall set out early next Week for Winchester, where I shall remain till after the 16th. of October. Should you favour me with an Answer direct to this place so as to reach me about the 20th. of October. The subjects abovementioned will be brought under our view as a Board of Commissioners and it is not improbable, but the President may converse with me individually respecting them, particularly with regard to the propriety of bringing them before Congress. Your Opinion in that respect, as well as your Sentiments at large will have great weight with me, and I am well satisfied would have the same with the President were they communicated as yours which I shall do or not as you please. Present my respectful Complts. to Mrs. Madison And believe me very sincerely Yours &c.\nAlexr White", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0263", "content": "Title: From James Madison to John Beckley, 1 October 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Beckley, John\nLetter not found. 1 October 1796. Acknowledged in Beckley to JM, 15 Oct. 1796. Encloses a letter for Beckley to forward to James Monroe. Apparently discusses Monroe\u2019s recall as U.S. minister to France and the impending presidential election. Asks Beckley to find a house in Philadelphia for JM to rent during the next session of Congress.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0264", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Henry Tazewell, 3 October 1796\nFrom: Tazewell, Henry\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nKingsmill 3d. Oct. 1796\nI beleive I mentioned to you before we parted in Phila: that Mr. Mason and myself intended among other things to communicate to the Legislature at their next Session, the situation of Virga. as to the Territory N. West of the Ohio. In making this communication we may perhaps be the authors of some error. Will you therefore after perusing the following remarks, favour me with such observations as you may deem necessary? You will remember that the terms of the Virga. Act of Cession as to the No. of States to be formed in this Territory were not intirely assented to by Congress and that the ordinance of 1787 proposed a new arrangement in this respect by definitely describing three States, and reserving to Congress a power to form two others North of an East & West Line to be drawn thro the soly. bend or extreme of Lake Michigan, subjecting this arrangement to the Assent of the State of Virga. which assent has never as yet been given or refused. It is obviously right that Virga. should not be the Author of any impediment to the free enjoyment of the privileges secured to the Settlers in this Territory by the ordinance, by delaying their necessary agency. The choice of three propositions therefore will require the deliberation of the Assembly\u20141. To reject the new arrangement proposed by the ordinance & adhere to the original Act of Cession\u20142 To discard the original terms of the Cession, & intirely assent to the proposed arrangement\u2014or 3. to propose another modification. The first would multiply the number of States in this Territory, but would retard the admission into the Union of those formed by the arrangement proposed in the Act of Cession. It is perhaps better for all parties that a few States should from this Quarter speedily become Members of the Union, than that a greater number should be admitted at a later period. If this be true, the Legislature ought not to insist on the terms of the original Act of Cession. The second proposition while it would diminish the number of States, would accelerate the admission of those described by the Ordinance into the Union provided the power reserved to Congress of forming two additional States North of an East & West Line thro. the Soly bend or extreme of lake Michigan could be surrendered. If that power is not surrendered, nor executed, it admits of doubt whether the population north of the Line & that South of the Line can be counted together, altho. intirely within one of the three States described in the ordinance. If it is not surrendered & executed it will probably give operation to local interests that will be more mischeivous than if both extremes of the three States are kept under one State Government. These objections and the offspring of them, which will readily come into your mind may be sufficiently strong to induce the Legislature to refuse their assent to the intire arrangement proposed by the Ordinance. If so, the third proposition will present this only modification as necessary in the business. Viz\u2014That three States as defined in the Ordinance shall be assented to, provided Congress relinquishes their reserved power to form two other States North of the line proposed to be run thro. lake Michigan. The Constitution will still leave in the hands of Congress a power to form two States out of one with the Assent of the States, and therefore the people cannot suffer by this arrangement. My own beleif is that to count the Setlers on the Lakes & on the Ohio together will hasten the admission of the three defined States into the Union, will check any untoward local interest which may generate with the Northern Setlers & upon the whole will make three States admitted at an early period into the Union better than five at a more distant period. There are however inconveniences which would attend even this proposition. They will readily occur to you\u2014but my design was so to state the various aspects of the business as to give a preference to that which should most speedily bring these States into the Union. When you have turned the subject over in your Mind you will gratify me by such remarks as you shall think needful. They will only be used by myself & for no improper purpose.\nThe president\u2019s Address has lately made its appearance among us. I have not yet read it with a sufficient degree of attention to speak correctly of it. Some suppose, that to lessen the American attachment to France, & to strengthen that towards Gt. Britain produced that perplexed posture of Affairs which occasioned the suppression of the first Address, because they know of no other great Events that have brightened the political Hemisphere of America. Others are not willing to become disciples of that moral Teacher who while he instructs them to forgive their enemies, enjoins them to forget their Friends, for they profess not to understand that impartiality which requires them to put friends and Foes upon the same footing. Others again read with jealousy that recommendation which seems to make a national established Religion a prerequisite to a fixed System of national morality. But amidst these superficial remarks on the address I do not discover in this quarter of the Country any material influence it will have on the approaching Election for the president\u2019s Successor. The people hereabouts are generally by profession supporters of Mr Jefferson\u2019s election, and so essential is it to the success of a Candidate for the office of an Elector to declare in favour of Mr Jefferson that none have yet attempted to come forward with different pretensions. We have as yet heard only of two Candidates\u2014Jno. Mayo of Richmond\u2014Thos. Griffin of York. Each of these have declared an intention to vote for Mr. Jefferson, but it is generally beleived that each will also vote for Jno. Adams\u2014which in truth would be a vote agt. Mr. Jefferson. This thin Artifice is understood & will be exposed. Another Candidate\u2014Mr. Ambler, will be offered who I beleive will certainly be elected & who in all respects is perfectly republican. It appears to me that some respectable & calm man from some part or other of Virginia will be essential in the delegation of Electors. He will greatly contribute to concentrate the doubtful Votes. From this part of the Country such a man is not to be expected. I think Mr Pendleton, Mr Henry, Beverly Randolph or some such man would, if they could be had, prove essentially serviceable.\nI saw an account in the Newspapers some time ago of Monroes recall & Chs. C. Pinkney\u2019s appointment as his Successor. I did not credit it, but I was surprized lately by a Letter from Phila to be acquainted with the truth of the fact. The motive for this measure, I cannot conjecture. It is busily circulated here, that it has been in persuance of a request from the Executive directory of France. I am sure this cannot be true. If any information has been recd. by you explanatory of this event, & it is not improper to communicate it, you will oblige me by it.\nI was not a little surprized to be informed lately thro. a pretty direct channel that the opposition to Mason at his approaching Election as Senator had fixed on Mr Blair to be run agt. him, & that he had agreed to serve, if chosen. I beleive however Mason\u2019s reelection is quite certain unless some person of the same political Sentiments with himself should be offered agt. him.\nUnceasing efforts have been making and are making in this part of the State to prejudice the people agt. the present Representation in Congress. They have had a greater effect than I conjectured. Mr. Page will probably fall a sacrafice to them, but I beleive their influence will extend no further. It is remarkable that notorious british partizans are the most zealous in these attempts, and as an evidence of it, you would be surprized at the activity which they use in circulating those infamous performances of peter porcupine.\nI shall be very glad at your leizure to hear from you on these & other subjects. Remember me to Mrs. Madison & beleive me to be Yours sincerely\nHenry Tazewell", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0266", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Henry Tazewell, 18 October 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Tazewell, Henry\nDear Sir\nOrange Ocr. 18. 1796.\nI was favored a few days ago with yours of the 3d. inst. It is so difficult to appreciate all the circumstances relating to the subject on which you ask my remarks, that the time allowed, does not enable me to do justice to it. Considering the various contingencies that may influence it, I am inclined to think it most prudent for you to do no more than simply present it among other things, to the attention of the Assembly; who will be able to hasten or suspend a final decision according to the lights which every day will continue to furnish. This course seems to be particularly recommended to you & your Colleagues, by the danger of misconstruction & perversion to which any formal & systematic view you might take of it, would be liable in the present temperament of party feelings towards Virginia.\nMonroe\u2019s recall was as much unapprehended, & as long disbelieved by me, as by you. I am still in the dark as to the ground on which the measure has been hazarded. In general I have understood, that the official characters give out, that he has not done his duty in vindicating the British Treaty to the French Government. But all his letters to me indicate that he has most sincerely & zealously laboured, to prevent that occurrence, from becoming a source of discord between France & this Country. I have not had a line from Philada. or elsewhere, that could enlighten my communications to Monroe on the subject.\nI am also but little informed of the present state of the electioneering politics, either out of or in Virginia. In this District, the suspected candidate has I hear, declined in consequence of the President\u2019s withdrawing his name. My brother William & a Mr. Conner, are the two surviving candidates. As they both mean the same thing, the contest proceeds with harmony, & the issue is not very material.\nI sincerely regret that Mr. Page, with all his just claims to the favor of his fellow Citizens should leave public life, under their frowns. He will have however more than the satisfaction of knowing that he has not deserved them. He will be able to assure himself, that many, I will not forbear to say, a very great majority, are sensible of his patriotism, and wish to see it better requited.\nI can not bid you farewell without a rebuke for again cheating me out of the visit you owe me. The Bishop also has incurred the same mark of my disappointment, which has been the greater, as I heard he had planned & was actually preparing this fall for the journey. Yrs. very sincerely\nJs. Madison Jr.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0267", "content": "Title: To James Madison from William Russell, 24 October 1796\nFrom: Russell, William\nTo: Madison, James\nSir,\nOrange Ct. House, Octr. 24th. 1796.\nInclosed are the different papers relative to my Claim against the United States, and shall esteem it a singular favor of you to petition Congress in my behalf for the Money. Any Expence attending the business shall be readily paid. I am sir, yr mo. Obt Servt.\nWm. Russell.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0268", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Hubbard Taylor, 14 November 1796\nFrom: Taylor, Hubbard\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nFrankfort 14th. Novr. 1796\nAs this will be handed you by Mr. Brown it will be unnec[e]ssary for me to give you any information respecting what is going forward in this Legislature of this State.\nI acknowledged the rect. of the 40 Dollars by Mr. Brown and gave amt. into the hands of his brother and have informed him thereof. I am collecting the Meterials for our Claims against Mays And will take such steps as may be really necessary to secure our right.\nShould any thing turn up in the course of the session that may be necessa[r]y for your information respecting your interest I will communicate it. With sentiments of regard & esteem I am Dr Sir Yr Affe Hble\nH. Taylor", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0269", "content": "Title: To James Madison from James Monroe, 15 November 1796\nFrom: Monroe, James\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nParis Novr. 15. 1796.\nThis will pass by the way of Engld. & will therefore most probably arrive safe. It is committed to Mr. Dease lately with Mr. P. in Engld. & who will deliver it to some careful person abt. departing thence for America. I enclose in it two letters from T. Pickering to me, my answer to the first, & a communication wh. finally wound up my discussion with the minister of for: affrs. upon the subject of the complts. of this govt: agnst our own, & wh. took place between that officer & myself. You will observe that T. P. grounds his measure upon certain letters of my own of the 16. & 20 of Feby. 10. & 25. of March, the contents of wh. he states tolerably well himself. In truth those letters, contain strong proofs of my attention to the object in question, & of its effect upon this govt. How then they became a ground of censure I cannot conceive. I consider this as a precipitate act which they are perhaps already sorry for. It marks equally the violence and the desperation of the party. The Americans here to a man when they heard of it (two Scots Pitcairn and Sadler excepted) assembled drew an address expressive of their regret and other sentiments favorable to me appointed a committee who wrote me to know when I would receive it\u2014I was aware that this would be laid hold of in America and turned to party account and therefore prevailed on them not to deliver it.\nThis act puts me at liberty to publish my correspondence &c but this I think had better be done in America for a like reason. The season is now too far advanced for me to sit [out] till the spring although this person were now arrived and in the interim you will write and advise me what to do.\nI have not answered the last letter because I waited this man\u2019s arrival and because I doubt whether it is not better to reserve what I should say for a future occasion\u2014and because notwithstanding this unprecedented outrage I have still some tenderness towards General Washington. You will determine whether the publication of any thing you have will be suitable & act accordingly.\nMalmesbury is still here. I send you papers wh. contain the state of the negotiation or rather of the appeal to publick opinion on both sides. Unpromising however as appearances are I shod. not be surpris\u2019d if a peace shod. be made up, for Engld. never took this step otherwise than under the pressure of necessity.\nYou will readily observe that after I asked a communication upon the subject of the treaty with the minister, of the Directoire, that I cod. not answer his objections till he furnished them or stated them to me: and of course cod. not have answer\u2019d them when the 4. letter to wh. he refers (Pickering) of the last of March was written.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0271", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Joseph Jones, 23 November 1796\nFrom: Jones, Joseph\nTo: Madison, James\nDr. Sr.\nFredg. 23d. Nov. 1796.\nIn expectation this will find you in Philaa: where the best information can be obtained respecting the returns of Electors for the several States, and from whence a well grounded conclusion may be formed\u2014I wish to hear what hopes you have of the ultimate decision. From the last acct. we have of the Pensylvania elections (Fayette Green and Westmoreland returns not in) I think the Republican ticket will be carried in that State and upon the success of which I have supposed wod. in great measure depend Mr. J\u2019s election. Have you heard from Monroe or is there any accot. whether he may be expected in shortly or when he may be expected. A very fulsome resolution for an address to the President was introduced into the House of Delegates while I was in Town wch. produced a warm debate and issued finally in a commitmt. The parties at length compromised and reported a resolution the basis of an address sufficiently complimentary but much less so than the first proposition. You will see Brooke is appointed Atty. Genl. and you were proposed By Taylor to succeed him if willing to serve for which purpose he informed me he had written to you. Sevl. asked me if I thought from any thing I had heard you say you were determined to retire my answer was that I had heard you speak of it but not conclusively but that I presumed if you did retire it wod. be inconvenient to accept the Office of Governor. In short if J\u2014\u2014n shod. be elected you must aid him with your efforts and so I think must every other good and able Republican for the purpose of bringing into practice republican principles & measures\u2014for be assured the other class will strain every nerve to embarrass and perplex his admin. I am still here and have not yet fixed the time of removal. You shall be apprised when I do. With best wishes for your little family I am Yr. friend & Servt.\nJos: Jones.\nPowel & Eyre of the E. Shore are the doubtfull votes here. When I left Richmond there was some doubt of Eyres election.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0272", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Stephen Moylan, [ca. 26 November] 1796\nFrom: Moylan, Stephen\nTo: Madison, James\n[ca. 26 November 1796]\nGenerl. Moylans compliments to Mr. Madison, sends him 226 dollars 67 cents for half years rent of the house he lives in\u2014on which he has made some necessary repairs which he cannot doubt, of being allowed for, he will furnish the account of his expenditures, when Mr. Madison is at more leisure, than he can be at present, being so lately arrived in this City.\nGenl. Moylan did not get possession of the house before May 2nd. last which Mrs. Payne is acquainted with.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0273", "content": "Title: From James Madison to James Madison, Sr., 27 November 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Madison, James, Sr.\nHon\u2019d Sir\nPhilada. 27. Novr. 1796\nWe ended our journey on tuesday afternoon, without any injurious incident on the way. We found the roads better than I ever experienced them, and the weather was equally favorable. Mordecai arrived the day before yesterday, and sets out on his return today. Immediately on my getting here, I called on the man who was to make the hoisting Screw, & had the satisfaction to find that it had been previously shipped for Fredg. addressed to Mr. Anderson. I hope therefore it will get to hand before any material inconveniency happens from the want of it. The election here has terminated in favor of the ticket for Mr. Jefferson; with an exception in favor of two of the candidates on the adverse ticket. It is said however that the returns yet to be made can be legally used at the meeting of the Electors, for correcting this circumstance. From the general prospect, as far as the elections are known or conjectured, the Ultimate choice is extremely uncertain. Unless great unanimity prevails in the Southern States, the chance is in favor of Mr. Adams. You will have seen the Remonstrance of Mr. Adet against our Govt. I am not able to say what its impression is on the public mind at large. Unless harmony be restored between the two Countries, the consequences must prove very serious in various respects; the more so, as there can be no doubt from the connection between Spain & other powers with France, that they will concur in her measures against us. At Major Waugh\u2019s I learnt that a person in the Neighbourhood made a good deal of Clover seed for sale, & had probably not engaged it all yet. I requested Majr. W. to enquire into the matter, and shall direct Mordecai to call & know the result. Should he be prevented, it will be well to have application made without delay, it being important that no oppy. should be omitted.\nThere does not seem at present any settled market as to Wheat. About two dollars is the price given generally by the millars as far as I can learn. The general prospect is so uncertain that I can form no satisfactory opinion about it.\nWe are all well & unite in our best affections. Fanny has written, & Dolly would do the same, but cannot spare a moment from the task of our Houshold arrangements, which are rendered particularly troublesome, by the change of our Quarters & the straitened character of our new ones. With dutiful respects I remain Yr Affe son\nJs. Madison Jr\nIf Brother Wm. is not set off let him know I shall write to him at Richmond.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0274", "content": "Title: To James Madison from James Maury, 28 November 1796\nFrom: Maury, James\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nLiverpool, 28th: Novr. 1796\nPresuming you are to be at Philadelphia as usual, I shall, by every opportunity, during the Session, endeavour to present you some Newspapers &, before this shall reach, I expect you will have received some. Conjectures on the Issue of the Pending Negociations at Paris are various. The prospects tho\u2019 do not appear favorable to peace.\nDuring my being in Office at this place I have been induced, from Time to Time, to go beyond the line of Disbursements prescribed by the Consular Act\u2014principally for the Relief of distressed Fellow Citizens\u2014and, having received no Compensation after repeated Applications to the successive Secretaries of State, I have determined to apply by memorial directly to the House of Representatives of the U. S. A. With this it goes to the Care of my Friend Mr. Ralph Eddowes whom I have requested to apply to you or my Friend Mr. Mason as either of you be on the Spot & it suit best to have it presented & patronized, May I beg I request of you this Favor?\nI was rather sorry, for your own sake not to see any of your Consignments this Year. Tobacco at length is become in great demand & at very high prices. I am with singular Esteem & Regard Your Friend.\nJames Maury", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0275", "content": "Title: From James Madison to George Washington, 1 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Washington, George\nPhilada. Decr. 1. 1796\nJ. Madison presents his respectful compliments to the President & returns the Treatise on small Canals &c, with his acknowledgments for the perusal of it. He is not enough conversant with such subjects to decide on the merits of the various plans & machinery recommended by the Author. In general his principles appear to be both effective & practicable; but the question of their utility must be decided by a very accurate comparison of expence & saving, which can not easily be made without partial experiments at least; and which must vary also in different countries, & different situations of Society. The author however is certainly entitled to much praise for his ingenuity & laudable zeal for improvement; and has probably by his work really contributed to it, either immediately, or by the use that may be made of his ideas by others.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0277", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Joseph Jones, 1 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jones, Joseph\nLetter not found. 1 December 1796. Acknowledged in Jones to JM, 9 Dec. 1796. Discusses presidential election of 1796.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0278", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Joseph Chew, 2 December 1796\nFrom: Chew, Joseph\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sirs\nMontreal 2d Decr. 1796\nHaving a Large Sum of money to Pay to Sir John Johnson and his not being acquainted with you made him wish me to give him a Power of Attorney for the disposial of my Two thousand Acres of Land in Bourbon County Kentucky. I have therefore given a Power of this date with Authority to Substitute and I believe he will appoint Robert Watts Esqr. of New York to Act for him, by this Power to Sir John that given to you in March last is revoked, and if you have disposed of the Land or any Part thereof be pleased to Remit the money to Mr Watts.\nI most earnestly intreat you by Every connection and the Sincere friendship between us to give Mr. Watts or whoever may Transact this business for Sir John all the Assistance in your Power that the best price that it is possible may be obtained for the Land, and have the Goodness to Write to Mr. Zachry. Taylor of Fayette County (who Sent me the Survey returned to you) to do the Same. I beg to Add your utmost Endeavours to have this done will Oblidge me in the most Essential and particular manner. I am My Dear Sirs Your Affectionate & Sincere Friend\nJoseph Chew", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0279", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Alexander White, 2 December 1796\nFrom: White, Alexander\nTo: Madison, James\nDear Sir\nWashington 2d December 1796\nThe proposed measures for the establishment of a National University which I took the liberty of mentioning as you passed through this City, and which had been the subject of a letter while you were in Virginia, have assumed a form differrent from what they bore at either of those periods. A Copy of that letter is therefore unnecessary. The Commissioners have forwarded to the President a Memorial addressed to Congress for him to use as he may judge expedient. The utility of a National University seems generally admitted; and that it ought to be established at the Seat of the General Goverment will hardly be contested. What then will be the objection? I believe no hopes and few wishes remain, that this City may not become the seat of Goverment. The most material facts which we have stated in the Memorial, Are the donation of 50 shares in the Patowmack Navigation by the President, on which shares \u00a35000 Sterl has been paid, And the appropriation of 20 Acres of Land in this City for the Site of the University. We have likewise in few words pointed out some of the most striking advantages that will result from such an institution. On these I need not dwell. Your own mind will fully embrace them. I think it is not improbable that the President will mention the business to you; it will certainly not require my recommendation to insure to it your patronage.\nI think this is a favourable moment to bring the business forward. Washington being about to retire his recommendation will be considered as the last request of a departing Friend. I will trouble you no further. Nor shall I ask an interruption of your public labours to inform me of the news or Politics of the City. The Presidents Speech inclosed by first Post will be a prize. Present my Complts. to Mrs. Madison and the young Ladies, and believe me to be Sincerely Yours\nAlexr White", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0280", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 5 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhilada. Decr. 5. 1796\nIt is not possible yet to calculate with any degree of certainty whether you are to be left by the Electors to enjoy the repose to which you are so much attached, or are to be summoned to the arduous trust which depends on their allotment. It is not improbable that Pinkney will step in between the two who have been treated as the principals in the question. It is even suspected that this turn has been secretly meditated from the beginning in a quarter where the leading zeal for Adams has been affected. This Jockeyship is accounted for by the enmity of Adams to Banks & funding systems which is now become public, and by an apprehension that he is too headstrong to be a fit puppet for the intriguers behind the skreen. It is to be hoped that P. may equally disappoint those who expect to make that use of him, if the appointment should in reallity light on him. We do not however absolutely despair that a choice better than either may still be made; and there is always the chance of a devolution of the business on the House of Reps. which will I believe decide it as it ought to be decided.\nAd\u00eats Note which you will have seen, is working all the evil with which it is pregnant. Those who rejoice at its indiscretions & are taking advantage of them, have the impudence to pretend that it is an electioneering manoeuvre, and that the French Govt. have been led to it by the opponents of the British Treaty. Unless the unhapy effect of it here & cause of it in France, be speedily obviated by wise councils & healing measures, the crisis will unquestionably be perverted into a perpetual alienation of the two Countries by the secret enemies of both. The immediate consequences of such an event may be distressing; but the permanent ones to the commercial & other great interests of this Country, form a long & melancholy catalogue. We know nothing of the policy meditated by the Executive on this occasion. The Speech will probably furnish some explanation of it. Yrs. always & affecy.\nJs. Madison Jr.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0281", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Joseph Jones, 5 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jones, Joseph\nLetter not found. 5 December 1796. Acknowledged in Jones to JM, 9 Dec. 1796. Discusses presidential election of 1796.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0282", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Joseph Jones, 9 December 1796\nFrom: Jones, Joseph\nTo: Madison, James\nDr Sr.\nFredg. 9th. Decr. 1796.\nI have yours of the first of this month. Was absent when it arrived or shod. have answered it the last post\u2014that of the 5th. I have just recd. From both I collect it is very uncertain who will be the President. I have long apprehended the consequence which now appears probable that in the struggle between the principal Candidates and the friends of each voting for Pinkney or generally so as V. P. he wod. get a greater number of votes than either of the others. For some time too it has been intimated that the object of H & J. was to get him elected\u2014under this impression it was intended our Electors when I left Richmond shod. be well informed of the hazard of voting for P. and be induced to turn their attention to some other person\u2014altho\u2019 I have the paper mentioning that 20 had voted for Jefferson & 1 for Adams I am withot. information how the votes were for a V. P. I am told they were more divided but no doubt you will by this if not the last mail be truly informed from Richmond. Shod. Pinkney get in, it is to be hoped he will pursue such courses as a fair construction of the constitution will justify, and stamp his administration with the Character of Republican. But my fear has been, and I confess still is, that this Gent. will be disposed to take council from those men who have had too much influence hitherto in our councils and will practice every art and stratagem to continue it. Mr P. may possess Talents sufficient to enable him to think for himself, and firmness to act accordingly\u2014from J. & A this might be expected, and it is of great importance that we shod. have a president at this crisis well acquainted with the Laws of nations, and particular States, with European politicks, and the politicks and true policy of our own Country, to enable him to act for himself and for ourselves independent and free from the danger of being mislead by artfull and designing men. I also fear Mr. P. so lately residing at the Ct. L\u2014d\u2014n will have impressions too favourable to that nation. Brooke has taken his station I expect in the Law. On your Decln. to retire\u2014Posey comes forward\u2014so I am told does young Mr. Mercer the gents. Son. The merchantile class are alarmed with Mr. Adets complaints\u2014others think they cant be blamed to act by us as G. B. does during the war.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0283", "content": "Title: Power of Attorney from James Madison, Sr., 9 December 1796 (Abstract)\nFrom: Madison, James, Sr.\nTo: Madison, James\n9 December 1796. Gives JM power of attorney to receive interest and principal on his father\u2019s U.S. stock. Witnessed by Richard Lee and Archibald Terrell before John Scott, acting magistrate in Orange County, Virginia.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0285", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Joseph Jones, 11 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jones, Joseph\nLetter not found. 11 December 1796. Acknowledged in Jones to JM, ca. 15 Dec. 1796. Encloses newspapers with news of presidential election.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0286", "content": "Title: To James Madison from James Madison, Sr., 11 and 12 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James, Sr.\nTo: Madison, James\nLetters not found. 11 and 12 December 1796. Acknowledged in JM to James Madison, Sr., 25 Dec. 1796. Enclose power of attorney to JM, 9 Dec. 1796, and discuss certificate of Samuel French and Mr. Noe\u2019s draft.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0287", "content": "Title: National University, [12 December] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n[12 December 1796]\n   In his address of 7 December, Washington had called on Congress to establish a national university and a military academy (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\n          the United States \u2026 (42 vols.; Washington, 1834\u201356)., 4th Cong., 2d sess., 1595).\nMr. Madison presented a memorial from the commissioners appointed under the act respecting the fixing of the seat of government at the Federal city, stating, that as the institution of a national University had been contemplated, and the President of the United States had appropriated land upon which to erect an edifice for that purpose, and given fifty shares in the Potomac river to the institution, and as they had no doubt but many other donations would be made towards carrying into effect so desirable an institution, were they properly authorised by Congress to receive them; they therefore pray that Congress will pass such regulations as shall enable them to receive such Legacies and Donations as may be given towards effecting this institution.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0288", "content": "Title: Petition of Peter Gree, ca. 13 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \nDocument not found. Ca. 13 December 1796. Presented by JM to the House of Representatives, 13 Dec. 1796, and referred to the Committee of Claims. Reported in Claypoole\u2019s Am. Daily Advertiser, 14 Dec. 1796.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0289", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Alexander Fowler, 15 December 1796\nFrom: Fowler, Alexander\nTo: Madison, James\nDr: Sir,\nPittsburgh 15. December 1796.\nAfter some trouble I apprehend I have collected such evidence as will sufficiently obviate the objections made by the Committee of Claims last Session. They observe\u2014\u201cThat it is not in proof before the Committee that any timely exertions have been made by the Petitioner to obtain Lands, or that he has not obtained Lands upon them, unless the appearance of the warrants, and Brackenridges Certificate (not Hugo, but Alexander Brackenridge, Surveyor of Jefferson County) shall justify such a Conclusion, nor is there proof that the Petitioner was a reduced officer.\u201d\nThere was a time when my principles were not only Known but applauded by an American Congress, and when such proofs would not have been required of me; but times are changed, as well as Men and measures. It is well that some virtuous Men retain their original principles, otherwise we should all have been swept long since, by the torrent of adulation, into a Gulph of folly and Corruption. Depending Sir, upon the Resolution of the Committee in 1783, I made myself easy, and struggled forward under accumalated difficulties, not doubting but I should ultimately arrive at Independence, so soon as Congress disposed of the western Territory; and I still retain the fullest confidence of success when my claim is thoroughly investigated, and fully understood. To doubt it would be to doubt the Justice of Congress.\nMy Commission in 1763, which fortunately I have by me must prove that I was a British Officer, and reduced on Half pay at that period. With respect to my obtaining Lands upon the Warrants; I had supposed, that the Warrants themselves were the strongest of all Evidence, that I had not; but it is suggested to me by a professional friend here, that a Certificate from the Land Office, expressing a return of the Warrants, is absolutely necessary, being what the Committee in 1783. Contemplates, and what the late Committee requires. My claim under the Proclamation of 1763, was proved agreeably to an existing Law of Virginia, before the County Court of Youghaganey, whose jurisdiction at that time extended over this place; and the Certificates upon which my claim rested, signed by the Colonel of the Regt. in which I served, as well as by the Commander in Chief, was either filed in the office of the Prothenotory of that Court, or forwarded to Mr. Harvey, the Register of the Land office, by whom my Warrants were Issued. I therefore humbly apprehend it may be adviseable to return the warrants, and procure the necessary Certificate from the Register of the Land office, before a further investigation of my claim takes place; and if you and my friends are of the same opinion, I flatter myself the necessary means will be taken to procure it, without my appearance at Richmond. This in my present situation is altogether impracticable, having been attacked by a Severe fit of the Gout about the middle of last Month; but I am now getting well, and am in hopes of being able to hobble down to Philadelphia in the Course of the Winter. In the mean time I could wish my business was kept in a state of postponement Untill I get forward with such documents in proof of my claim; as I have now procured. As a favorite Author of mine observes\u2014\u201cGrant me propitious, retirement and Health, With Competencey and a Catt: There with Sweet Liberty, In some recluse and lonely vale, far from the intrigues of a Court, calm and serene to dwell; for who would Groan beneath the galling load of power, or walk upon the Slippery pavements of the Great Who on his Glebe can reign, unenvied, happy, and Secure.\u201d You\u2019ll excuse my. It is the effusions of a Heart which cannot change. I have the Honor to be, with the uttmost respect, Dr. Sir, Your obliged and Obedient Servant\nA: Fowler.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0290", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Joseph Jones, [ca. 15 December] 1796\nFrom: Jones, Joseph\nTo: Madison, James\nDr. Sr.\n[ca. 15 December 1796]\nYours of the 11th. by this days mail I have recd. with the papers inclosed. I find nothing new from Europe. Mifflin has very fully stated to the legislature the ground of his conduct respecting the choice of Electors and will no doubt meet the public approbation. It is to be hoped an investigation of the bus[i]ness will take place if there shall be reason to think any unfairness has been practiced that the truth may come out and the public censure fall on those who are to blame if such there are. As yet there appears to be great uncertainty who will be the President\u2014the probabi[li]ty is that if Vermont has no choice that J. will have the majority necessary to his appointmt. If the votes of that State shall be admitted I fear his Antagonist will prevail. I still hope it will devolve on the Representatives where we are taugh[t] to believe a sufft. number of the States will be in his favor. The P. in his speech seems to think the honor of the nation wounded by Adets free censures\u2014there appears to be some gaul in the composition but it is thought by the Friends of that Republic to contain plain truths however roughly exhibited. What with the gloomy prospect presented by the present posture of French affairs as it respects America\u2014the diminution of the British markets in Europe and their pouring in upon us their manufactures, together with the real scarsity of money, and the hazard of our exports finding a convenient market, it will be fortunate if great failures do not happen among us\u2014already it is said some have happened in Baltimore and similar evils expected in ev\u27e8e\u27e9ry quarter of the Union\u2014the great surplus of goods beyond the necessary demand must lye in the hands of the Merchts.\u2014they must pay or abide the consequence and poor America become the Drs. for those manufactures Britain could not vend elsewhere. I go in the morning to Loudoun for abt. ten days\u2014your favors will meet me on my return. Yr. friend\nJos: Jones.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0292", "content": "Title: To James Madison from John Watts, 16 December 1796\nFrom: Watts, John\nTo: Madison, James\nDear sir,\nNew York 16. Decr. 1796.\nI yesterday recd. a Letter dated Montreal 1 Decr. Inst. from Sir John Johnson enclosing a Power of Attorney from Mr Joseph Chew to him and a Substitution to me for the Sale of 2000 A[c]res of Land in Bourboun County Kentuckey together with the enclosed Letter for you. I am desired to make Application to you on this subject, as they mention That you had a power from Mr. Chew for the Sale and That it is very possible These Lands may have been sold by you. I know Nothing of the Title Situation or Value & beg you will be so obliging as to inform me Whether you have sold this Property, if not, Whether There is any probability of selling it & for what price. Mr. Chew I understand was Agent to Sir John Johnson during his Residence in England and I have understood is largely in Arrear for Monies recd. on his Account & that the Proceeds of these Lands (which They appear very Anxious to dispose of) are to go in Part payment. I know no Person To whom I would more readily confide the Managment of this Business than yourself & sho\u2019d be glad you would assist in the sale agreably to the Wish of the Parties And Am with great Respect your very huble frnd.\nJohn Watts", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0293", "content": "Title: To James Madison from George Washington, 16 December 1796 (Abstract)\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Madison, James\n16 December 1796. Invites JM \u201cto dine on Thursday next at 4 oClock.\u201d Requests an answer.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0294", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Joseph Jones, 16 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jones, Joseph\nLetter not found. 16 December 1796. Acknowledged in Jones to JM, 8 Jan. 1797. Encloses part of Thomas Paine\u2019s Letter to George Washington and the first number of \u201cPelham.\u201d", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0295", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Arthur Breese, 17 December 1796\nFrom: Breese, Arthur\nTo: Madison, James\nSir.\nWhitestown Dec. 17h. 96.\nYour letter of the 13h. May last, was handed me some time since by Mr. Vanwyck. He informed me that since he had seen you, Mr. Bailey & himself had agreed to take the Lot you sold them at the Estimated quantity 900. acres, Declining a Resurvey.\nI am inclined to believe that the Lot would more than hold out, Nine hundred Acres. I have the honor to be Sir with much Respect Your Very Obt. Sert.\nArthur Breese", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0296", "content": "Title: To James Madison from Thomas Jefferson, 17 December 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Madison, James\nTh: J. to J. M.\nMonticello Dec. 17. 96.\nYour favor of the 5th. came to hand last night. The first wish of my heart was that you should have been proposed for the administration of the government. On your declining it I wish any body rather than myself: and there is nothing I so anxiously hope as that my name may come out either second or third. These would be indifferent to me; as the last would leave me at home the whole year, & the other two thirds of it. I have no expectation that the Eastern states will suffer themselves to be so much outwitted as to be made the tools for bringing in P. instead of A. I presume they will throw away their second vote. In this case it begins to appear possible that there may be an equal division where I had supposed the republican vote would have been considerably minor. It seems also possible that the Representatives may be divided. This is a difficulty from which the constitution has provided no issue. It is both my duty & inclination therefore to relieve the embarrasment should it happen: and in that case I pray you and authorize you fully to sollicit on my behalf that mr. Adams may be preferred. He has always been my senior from the commencement of our public life, and the expression of the public will being equal, this circumstance ought to give him the preference. When so many motives will be operating to induce some of the members to change their vote, the addition of my wish may have some effect to preponderate the scale. I am really anxious to see the speech. It must exhibit a very different picture of our foreign affairs from that presented in the Adieu, or it will little correspond with my view of them. I think they never wore so gloomy an aspect since the year 83. Let those come to the helm who think they can steer clear of the difficulties. I have no confidence in myself for the undertaking.\nWe have had the severest weather ever known in November. The thermometer was at 12\u00b0. here & in Goochland, & I suppose generally. It arrested my buildings very suddenly when eight days more would have completed my walls, & permitted us to cover in. The drought is excessive. From the middle of October to the middle of December not rain enough to lay the dust. A few days ago there fell a small rain, but the succeeding cold has probably prevented it from sprouting the grain sown during the drouth. Present me in friendly terms to messrs. Giles, Venable, Page. Adieu affectionately.\nP. S. I inclose a letter for Volney because I do not know where to address to him.\nPray send me Gallatin\u2019s view of the finances of the U. S. and Paine\u2019s lre. to the President if within the compas of a conveyance by post.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0297", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 19 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhilada. Decr. 19. 1796\nThe returns from N. Hampshire, Vermont, S. C. & Georga. are still to come in, & leave the event of the Election in some remaining uncertainty. It is but barely possible that Adams may fail of the highest number. It is highly probable, tho\u2019 not absolutely certain, that Pinkney will be third only on the list. You must prepare yourself therefore to be summoned to the place Mr. Adams now fills. I am aware of the objections arising from the inadequateness of the importance of the place to the sacrifices you would be willing to make to a greater prospect of fulfilling the patriotic wishes of your friends; and from the irksomeness of being at the head of a body whose sentiments are at present so little in unison with your own. But it is expected that as you had made up your mind to obey the call of your Country, you will let it decide on the particular place where your services are to be rendered. It may even be said, that as you submitted to the election knowing the contingency involved in it, you are bound to abide by the event whatever it may [be]. On the whole it seems essential that you should not refuse the station which is likely to be your lot. There is reason to believe also that your neighbourhood to Adams may have a valuable effect on his councils particularly in relation to our external system. You know that his feelings will not enslave him to the example of his predecessor. It is certain that his censures of our paper systems & the intrigues at New York for setting P. above him have fixed an enmity with the British faction. Nor should it pass for nothing, that the true interest of New England particularly requires reconciliation with France as the road to her commerce. Add to the whole that he is said to speak of you now in friendly terms and will no doubt be soothed by your acceptance of a place subordinate to him. It must be confessed however that all these calculations, are qualified by his political principles and prejudices. But they add weight to the obligation from which you must not withdraw yourself.\nYou will see in the answer to the P.s speech, much room for criticism. You must, for the present, be content to know that it resulted from a choice of evils. His reply to the foreign paragraph indicates a good effect on his mind. Indeed he cannot but wish to avoid entailing a war on his successor. The danger lies in the fetters he has put on himself & in the irritation & distrust of the French government.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0298", "content": "Title: From James Madison to James Madison, Sr., 19 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Madison, James, Sr.\nHon\u2019d Sir\nPhilada. Decr. 19. 1796\nWe have been concerned as well as disappointed in not having a single line from Orange since we left it. Fanny has written by every post; & has reminded you & complained of it. I have never even heard whether Mordicai got back safe or not. I refer to the letter to my brother William, for the state of things here, the price of wheat &c. You expressed a wish that some articles for Negro\u2019s cloathing &c. might be got for you. The mercantile distresses & the influx of British Goods agst. which the French have shut the ports of Europe, afford a better chance of getting them cheap than has perhaps at any time happened. It will be necessary however that Mr. Dunbar shd. remit the funds for the purpose. I have not yet recd. the remittance for Fanny, nor heard from him on the subject. Our provisions &c. sent to Fredg. are not yet arrived; and from the advance of the Season we begin to despair of their coming at all. The loss will be sensible to our comfort, as well as to our \u0153conomy. Even the Butter from Alexanda. seems likely to miscarry. I shall be glad to learn whether Mr. Chuning finished my Stables, and whether he shingled the Barn: if the latter has not yet been done, I wish the shingles to be kept for further orders. I beg you to inform me also of the prospect of Clover seed; that I may multiply if necessary the chances of a supply. I must if possible get as much as will be wanted for one field at Sawney\u2019s, & one if not two at Black Meadow. I hope Js. Coleman has got the sowing box made for \u0153conomizing the seed. We all unite in our best affections to you & my mother. Yr. affe. son\nJs. Madison Jr", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0299", "content": "Title: From James Madison to John Watts, ca. 23 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Watts, John\nLetter not found. Ca. 23 December 1796. Mentioned in JM to James Madison, Sr., 25 Dec. 1796. Promises information requested by Watts on sale of Joseph Chew\u2019s Kentucky land.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0300", "content": "Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 25 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhilada. Decr. 25. 1796\nI can not yet entirely remove the uncertainty in which my last left the election. Unless the Vermont election of which little has of late been said, should contain some fatal vice, in it, Mr. Adams may be considered as the President elect. Nothing can deprive him of it but a general run of the votes in Georgia, Tenissee & Kentucky in favor of Mr. Pinkney, which is altogether contrary to the best information. It is not even probable that Mr. P. will be the second on the list, the secondary votes of N. Hampshire being now said to have been thrown away on Elseworth: and a greater number consequently required from the states abovementioned than will be likely to fall to his lot. We have nothing new from Europe. The prospect & projects in our foreign Department are under a veil not a corner of which I have been able to lift. I fear the distrust with wch. the French Govt. view the Executive here, and the fetters which the President has suffered himself to put on, will be obstacles to the reconciliation which he can not fail to desire. It is whispered also that the Spanish Minister has intimated the probable dissatisfaction of his Court at the Explanatory Article of the British Treaty. Nor can it be doubted, from the nature of the alliance between that & France, that a common cause will be made in all the steps taken by the latter with respect to this Country. In the mean time the British party are busy in their calumnies for turning the blame of the present crisis from themselves, on the pretended instigations of France, by Americans at Paris; & some of them are already bold eno\u2019 to talk of an alliance with England as the resourse in case of an actual rupture with France. The new President whoever he will be will have much in his power; and it is important to make as many circumstances as possible conspire to lead him to a right use of it. There never was greater distress than at this moment in the monied world. Failures & frauds occur daily; And are so much connected with Banks that these Institutions are evidently losing ground in the public opinion.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0301", "content": "Title: From James Madison to James Madison, Sr., 25 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Madison, James, Sr.\nHon\u2019d Sir\nPhilada. Decr. 25. 1796\nYour two letters of the 12 & 11. came duly to hand since my last. The power of Atty sent me proves sufficient. It will be necessary for you to have a proper one at Richmond to prevent another transfer hither. The weather has been so intensely cold that I have not yet gone out to the proper office with Saml. French\u2019s Certificate. I am at a loss to account for Mr. Noe\u2019s draught. I know of no colour for it. The only instance of my ever owing him as much, within my recollection, was the barbacue I subscribed to, & that I well remember I paid him for shortly after, in gold as I was passing by his House. Not a syllable yet from Mr. Dunbar. Our shipment from Fredg. is now despaired of. The river here is blocked up compleatly; & so no doubt is the Rappahannock. The Thermor. has been 2\u00b0 degrees below o. We have fortunately recd. a barrel of hams from Sister Macon, but did not get them for some time after their arrival, no letter of notice being sent by which to find the Vessel, & the Capt: not being able to find us. I have recd. a letter from Mr. Watts of N. York, brother in law to Sr. Jno. Johnson inclosing one from Mr. Chew, which revokes the power of Atty given us to sell his land, and lets me know that another has been granted by him in favor of Sr. Jno. It seems that as Agent to Sr. Jno. whilst in England, arrears are due which the land is to go in part paymt. of. Mr. Watts wishes all the information from us possible relative to the land, & our friendly aids for making the most of it. I have promised him both, & consequently must urge you to forward your letter for Mr. Chew open, that I may fulfil the first. The loss of my horse, tho\u2019 I \u27e8see\u27e9 no blame in it, deranges my plans not a little. Let Morda. C. know if you please that Sawney must have Tamerlane in place of him till the spring; and that he must have the young horse at Black Meadow broken & got ready as one to come for us. Nothing new from abroad. Mr. Adams will be President & Mr. Jefferson probably vice Presidt. Wheat abt. 1 \u2153 dolrs. tho\u2019 scarcely any at Market. Flour abt. 10 dolrs. in the domestic market: it is scarcely in demand for the foreign, the navigation being obstructed & likely to remain so for a considerable time.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0302", "content": "Title: National University, [26 December] 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \n[26 December 1796]\n   On 21 December JM had reported the following resolution from the select committee established on 12 December, relating to the section of the president\u2019s message recommending the establishment of a national university. \u201cResolved, That it is at present expedient that authority should be given to enrol proper persons to receive in trust, pecuniary donations, in aid of the donations already given towards the establishment of a University within the District of Columbia.\u201d The House referred JM\u2019s resolution to a Committee of the Whole for 26 December, when it was debated, along with the memorial of the commissioners of the District of Columbia on behalf of a national university. Discussion centered on the extent of congressional support for such an institution (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of\nMr. Madison was far from thinking that this was a question which went to pledge Congress to support a national university. He did not think the agreeing to the present proposition would pledge Congress to pay a single farthing. He considered the question merely to be whether Congress would encourage an establishment which was to be supported independent of them. The President had thought proper to give to this institution the fifty shares in the Potomac navigation which had been presented to him as an acknowledgment of his services during the war, but which he declined accepting for his own use. All that the commissioners prayed for was to have this property secured, with any other which might be given for the same purpose, by granting due powers for the purpose. This was the simple view which he had of the subject. The gentleman from New-York (Mr. Livingston) seemed to think there was no necessity for the interference of the United S. in this business. Mr. M. said Congress had the sole jurisdiction over this district of country. It was indeed, necessary that the laws of Maryland should operate over it for the present, but they do so, said he, by authority of Congress, and Congress only can make a law on the present subject. With this idea, the commissioners had applied to them. The report before them, Mr. M. said, did not call the University a National University, it speaks of it as an University in the district of Columbia. He thought there was a material difference between calling it an University and a National University. Congress, he said, might form an Institution there, which could not be considered an Institution of the United States, which might nevertheless, have all the good of a National Institution\u2014and it was in this qualified light in which he viewed it.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Madison/01-16-02-0303", "content": "Title: Memorial of Joseph Nourse, ca. 26 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: \nDocument not found. Ca. 26 December 1796. On 26 Dec. 1796 JM presented to the House of Representatives the memorial of Joseph Nourse, register of the treasury of the U.S., asking for an increase in salary. It was referred to the committee on the subject of compensation. Reported in New World, 27 Dec. 1796.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0443", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from George Wythe, 1 January 1796\nFrom: Wythe, George\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nG Wythe to T Jefferson\nRichmond, 1 of January, 1796.\nThe general assembly, at their late session, enacted that a collection of the laws, public and private, relative to lands, shall be printed. Those, who are appointed to perform the work, despair of doing it, without your aid. If you will permit your copies to be sent hither, I will be answerable for thear restitution in the same order as when they shall be received. Be so good as let me know, if the copies may be obtained, in what manner they may be forwarded, with least inconvenience. Farewell.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0444", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Hopkins, 2 January 1796\nFrom: Hopkins, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nHonourable & Dear Sir\nAmherst County Jany. 2d. 1796\nA short time since I receiv\u2019d a Verbal Message from Mr. Joshua Fry, by his Brother requesting to know if I had any Papers in my Possession relating to the Title of a Tract of Land in Albemarle Call\u2019d the Limestone-Quarry\u2014of which his Father and mine with Other Gentlemen were the Joint proprietors\u2014Informing at the same Time that Mr. Christo. Hudson had laid a Warrant on the said Land, Asserting That there was Neither Patent nor Deed for the same Nor had been any Taxes paid for it.\nBeing at some Distance from home when I received the Message\u2014I told Mr. Fry that I perfectly Recollected having seen among my Fathers Papers some years ago a Deed from Col. Phillip Mayo to Col. Peter Jefferson and Others (including the Gentlemen he had named) and that I would on my return home Examine and Agreeable to his Brother\u2019s desire Transmit him a Copy of That as well as any Other Papers I should find respecting the said Lands. Mr. Fry\u2019s Message further Stated that he had Sold his proportion of the Land to (the late) Governor Lee\u2014which was the Reason of his enquiry about the Title at this juncture, and that Mr. Lee wished to Purchase the other Shares if Agreeable to the Proprietors. Accordingly on my Return after an elaborate Search of some Days I found not only the Deed in question, but a Copy of the Courses of the said Land (which are not mentiond in the Deed) from the Record of the Patent in the late Secretarys Office\u2014Copies of both which I inclosed to Mr. Joshua Fry, having requested that he would Communicate the same to the Other Gentlemen who were Co-Partners in the Land as Opportunity might Offer and particularly to you\u2014Charging it on myself to do the same so soon as could be Convenient. Accordingly Sir I have herewith Inclosed you Copies of the same Papers\u2014By which you will see that Mr. Hudson is quite Mistaken in his Notion respecting the Lands being Unpatented or Undeeded. As to Taxes I am sure ever Since the Permanent Revenue Act took place I have paid more Taxes in Albemarle than the other Lands I possest there should have Amounted to, and therefore had just reason to suppose my proportion of the Limestone Tract was included\u2014tho\u2019 I cannot say I ever made particular enquiry into it. Yet I suppose the land could in no wise be forfeited on that Account, unless the Taxes had been Demanded and refused which Case I am Convinced does not Exist. I am more in Doubt however lest the Record of the Deed made in Albemarle Court should have been destroyd by the Brittish on their Irruption there\u2014having unluckily forgot this, when I made search there some years ago for the Other Deeds  wherein I was Interested\u2014some of which I think were near the same Date with this and the Records for all which were preservd. Whether the Law for restoring or Renewing the Records destroyd then by the Brittish is still in Force or Expired I know not. However if Mr. Hudson is Serious and persists in his Resolution of endeavouring to take away our Land (which I can scarce imagine) I should think there ought to be a Meeting of the Proprietors to Consult and Conclude upon the proper Means of Defending it, in which Case we should all Assuredly look up to you Sir not only as the first Partner\u2014but much more as the first in Capacity to Direct and Conduct us thro\u2019 the Difficulty\u2014Not doubting in the Interim you will Cause the requisite Examinations to be made. I have only Now to beg your Pardon Honorable Sir for this Intrusion on that Repose which Assuredly you Meditated to enjoy on Retireing from the Weight of Publick Cares\u2014Persuaded that in this Case you will more easily Excuse the Interruption of the Communication I have made, than you would my Negligence in Omitting it. With a Breast replete with Warmest Sentiments of Unceasing Gratitude for the long and Eminent Services which you have renderd our Common Country both at home and Abroad and praying that Heaven may render you its Choicest Benedictions both here and hereafter I am Honble. & Dear sir Your ever Obliged & most Respectful (tho\u2019 Unworthy)\nJa Hopkins", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0445", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to J. P. P. Derieux, 3 January 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Derieux, Justin Pierre Plumard\nDear Sir\nMonticello Jan. 3. 1796.\nI have recieved your favor on the subject of Mr. Payne\u2019s advertisement of the sale of your tenement. If his mortgage was prior to your lease, and was recorded, your lease cannot affect his right, because nothing done by Mr. Wood after the mortgage ought to derogate from his prior contracts. Mr. Payne however cannot take possession against your consent, but will be driven to a suit in Chancery against Wood and yourself to foreclose the equity of redemption, and I think the costs of the suit would fall on Wood, and it\u2019s determination would not be till after your lease is out, if you employ a lawyer to defend it. You will judge on this view of the thing whether best to defend it, or give up and have recourse against Wood for his breach of contract.\u2014I find a man of the name of Patrick, whom I hire, has endeavored to swindle you out of 10/. He is a great rascal. He had no letter from me to you, for I did not know he would go by your house, nor would I have trusted him with a letter. With my respectful salutations to Mrs. Derieux I am Dear Sir, Your friend & servt\nTh: Jefferson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0446", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Archibald Stuart, 3 January 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Stuart, Archibald\nDear Sir\nMonticello Jan. 3. 96\n  I troubled you once before on the subject of my nails, and must trouble you once more, but hope my present plan will protect you from all further embarrasment with it. I sat out with refusing to retail, expecting  the merchants of my neighborhood and the upper country would have given a preference to my supplies, because delivered here at the Richmond whole sale prices, and at hand to be called for in small parcels, so that they needed not to keep large sums invested in that article and lying dead on their hands. The importing merchants however decline taking them from a principle of suppressing every effort towards domestic manufacture, and the merchants who purchase here being much under the influence of the importers, take their nails from them with their other goods. I have determined therefore to establish deposits of my nails to be retailed at Milton, Charlottesville, Staunton, Wormester and Warren, but first at the three first places, because I presume my present works, which turn out a ton a month, will fully furnish them, and two additional fires which will be at work in a short time, will raise it to a ton and a half a month, and enable me to extend my supplies to Wormester and Warren. I shall retail at the Richmond whole sale prices, laying on 5. percent at Milton and Charlottesville for commission to the retailers, and 10. per cent at the other places for commission and transportation. My present retailing prices at Staunton would be\nSixes\nequal to 7/3\u00bd per M\nEights\nequal to 10/\nTens\nequal to 12/5\u00bd\nTwelves\nequal to 14/8\nSixteens\nequal to 17/6\nTwenties\nequal to 20/10\nIt is tolerably certain that the moment my deposit opens, there will be an entire stoppage to the sale of all imported nails, for nobody can retail them in the upper country at the Richmond wholesale prices, advanced only 5. or 10. percent. And as I mean to employ only one person in each place to retail, it will be of some advantage to the merchant who will undertake it, to have the entire monopoly of the nail business, and so draw to his store every one who wants nails; besides the commission of 5. percent, which in an article to be sold for ready money only, and where he does not employ a farthing of his own capital, I am advised is a sufficient allowance for commission. I should expect them to send me a copy of their sales once a month, and to hold the proceeds ready for my draughts at stated periods, say monthly. I trouble you to engage some person whom you can recommend for punctuality, to retail for me. I have heard very favorable accounts of a Mr. Stuart, merchant of Staunton, and should not hesitate to prefer him if he will undertake it. If not, pray do me the favor to find some other. I have written you the details, not that you need trouble yourself with explaining them to any person but that you may put this letter into his hands. As soon as you will name  to me the person you engage I will send him an assortment of nails by the first waggons which will take them in.\u2014Will you be so good as to procure for me a good bearskin, dressed with a soft skin and the hair on. Dr. Johnson will on your application be so good as to pay for it, and take credit in his account with me.\u2014My respectful salutations to Mrs. Stuart, and assurances of attachment to yourself from Your\u2019s affectionately\nTh: Jefferson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0447", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Van Staphorst & Hubbard, 5 January 1796\nFrom: Van Staphorst & Hubbard\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nSir\nAmsterdam 5 January 1796.\nConfirming what We had the pleasure of writing you the 10th. October, We have to acknowledge receipt of your very esteemed favor of 8 September, remitting us Wm. Hodgdon\u2019s Bill at 90 days Sight on Robinson Sanderson & Rumney of Whitehaven payable in London, \u00a3300. Stg. which We shall in course place to the credit of Mr. Philip Mazzei, to whom We have communicated the receipt of this remittance on forwarding him the Duplicate of your letter that covered it. Wishing you sincerely the uninterrupted enjoyment of health and prosperity, during many successive returns of the season, We are with great esteem and regard Sir! Your mo. ob. hb. servants\nN. & J. Van Staphorst & Hubbard", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0449", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Madison, 10 January 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhiladelphia, January 10, 1796.\nThe House of Representatives have been latterly occupied with a pretty curious affair. Certain Traders and others, of Detroit, entered into a contract with certain individuals of the United States, for obtaining the peninsula formed by Lakes Huron and Michigan, and containing 20 or 30 millions of acres of valuable land. The traders, by means of their influence over the Indians, were to extinguish the Indian Title; and the other party, by means of their influence, and that of their connexions, with Congress, to extinguish the title of the United States. The Country was to be divided into shares, of which the greater part was to be disposed of by the party who had to deal with Congress. The reason of this, obvious enough in itself, has been sufficiently established by proof. Ever since the session commenced, two of the partners deputed to work the project through Congress have been employed with great industry, opening themselves in different degrees and forms, to different members, according to circumstances. Some of the members, who scented the criminality of the object, waited for a full disclosure. Others, through an eagerness of some sort or other, ran with the tale first to the President, and then into the House of Representatives, without concerting or considering a single step that ought to follow. In consequence of the information to the President, and a representation to the District Judge of the United States, a warrant issued, and the offenders were taken into custody by the Marshal. The House could not be prevailed on to take a single day to consider the subject, and a warrant issued from the Speaker, also, by virtue of which the Prisoners were transferred to the Sergeant-at-arms. For the proceedings which have ensued, I must refer you to the newspapers. They ended in the discharge of one of the men, and in the reprimand of the other at the bar, and remanding him to Gaol, where he now lies. In the arguments of the Counsel, and in the debates in the House, the want of jurisdiction in such a case over persons not members of the body was insisted on, but was overruled by a very great majority. There cannot be the least doubt, either of the turpitude of the charge, or the guilt of the accused; but it will be difficult, I believe, to deduce the privilege from the Constitution, or to limit it in practice, or even to find a precedent for it in the arbitrary claims of the  British House of Commons. What an engine may such a privilege become, in the hands of a body once corrupted, for protecting its corruptions against public animadversion, under the pretext of maintaining its dignity and preserving the necessary confidence of the public! You will observe that a part of the charge consisted of the slanderous assertion that a majority of the Senate, and nearly a majority of the other House, had embarked in the job for turning a public measure to their private emolument. Apply the principle to other transactions, and the strictures which the press has made on them, and the extent of its mischief will be seen at once. There is much room to suspect that more important characters, both on the British and American sides of this affair, were behind the ostensible parties to it.\nThe Treaty has not yet been touched. I understand from Mr. Giles that the delay has been explained by him to you. A copy of the British ratification arrived lately, and it was hoped a communication of it would have followed. The Executive decided otherwise; and to appease the restlessness of the House of Representatives, Pickering laid the papers before the Speaker, to satisfy him, and enable him to explain the matter to others individually. This mode of proceeding does not augment the respect which a more direct and less reserved stile of conduct would inspire, especially as the papers were sufficiently authentic for any use the House of Representatives would be likely to make of them. It is now said that the original is arrived by a British Packet just announced from New York. Having been kept within doors by the badness of the day, I have not ascertained the truth of the account.\nI have letters from Col. Monroe of the 23 and 24 of Octr. His picture of the affairs of France, particularly of the prospect exhibited in the approaching establishment of the Constitution, is very favorable. This, as far as we know, has had an easy birth, and wears a promising countenance. He had not learnt with certainty the ratification of the Treaty by the President, but wrote under the belief of it. His regrets, and his apprehensions, were as strong as might be expected. I have a letter from T. Paine, which breathes the same sentiments, and contains some keen observations on the administration of the Government here. It appears that the neglect to claim him as an American Citizen when confined by Robespierre, or even to interfere in any way whatever in his favor, has filled him with an indelible rancour against the President, to whom it appears he has written on the subject. His letter to me is in the stile of a dying one, and we hear that he is since dead, of the abscess in his side, brought on by his imprisonment. His letter desires that he may be remembered to you.\nI inclose a copy of the proceedings relating to the presentation of the French flag. What think you of the President\u2019s Jacobinical speech to Ad\u00e8t?\nRandolph\u2019s vindication has just undergone the lash of the Author of the \u201cBone to gnaw.\u201d It is handled with much satirical scurrility, not without strictures of sufficient ingenuity and plausibility to aid the plan of running him down. By Mr. Carr, who is now here, we will endeavor to contrive you a copy.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0450", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Thomas Mann Randolph, 11 January 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Randolph, Thomas Mann\nTh:J. to T M Randolph\nMonticello Jan. 11. 96.\nI expected this would have gone by your waggon before this. But several accidents have delayed her departure. On bringing her here to have some repairs of smiths\u2019 work they found she must have a new axle, and my carpenters being all at work at Shadwell, Nat took her back to Edgehill to make the axle. A fresh then prevented her coming over again till Friday evening. Saturday and this day will complete the smith\u2019s work, but now we have a snow 6. I. deep and it is raining and freezing. I therefore write by post which leaves this now for Richmond on Tuesdays, and comes in on Fridays.\n  I went on Saturday with Divers to see Mr. Meriwether\u2019s machine thresh. It gets out only 6. bushels an hour, but it is only double geered and worked by 2. horses. The drum wheel revolves 36. times for one of the horse wheel. My model is treble geered, requires 4. horses, perhaps 6. but the drum wheel revolves 100. times for once of the horse wheel, consequently makes 3. strokes for one of Meriwether\u2019s, and each stroke with 3. times the velocity. We are making out our bill of scantling for it. Both Divers and myself were however well satisfied with Mr. Meriwether\u2019s  He will build on the same model; but I am for trying the treble.\u2014Mr. Hornsby talks of moving to Kentuckey. If he does, N. Lewis junr. goes also. They go to see the country and determine in the spring. If they move, N.L\u2019s land will be for sale. He talks wildly as to price, \u00a33 an acre for 700. acres. I should think it a good bargain at \u00a31200. and a hard one at \u00a31600. His father thinks of buying or rather exchanging for it, as he has lands in Kentuckey adjoining Mr. Hornsby\u2019s. These lands would suit Mr. R. of Dungioness.\u2014Mrs. Gilmer is decided against leaving Pen-park. I have been fortunate in getting 5. prime fellows @ \u00a315. a year, and 3. sawyers @ \u00a318. and \u00a320. each, so that with Essex &c. I have a good force for my works.\u2014Our nail business has changed it\u2019s appearance a good deal. A rise in the price of iron and fall in that of nails has struck off 20. per cent from the clear profits since the last winter. The two importing houses at Milton have also brought a deluge of British nails with a view as is said of putting down my work. I have hereupon been obliged to enter the lists with them, by establishing a deposit of nails for retail at Milton, another at Charlottesville, and shall send another to Staunton. I ask from the people no more than I did from the merchants with an advance only of 5. percent commission to the retailer. That is to say I retail at 5. per cent on the Richmond wholesale prices. This I presume will soon give me a clear field, and defeat in this particular this effort of the general system of Scotch policy to suppress every attempt at domestic manufacture.\u2014I am in hopes my cutting machine, hoop iron and rope will be up soon. If this should find you in Richmond perhaps you can aid in getting them off, as also 3. or 4. tons of nail rod lodged for me at Gamble & Temple\u2019s.\u2014Jefferson is and has been constantly well, as we all are. We shall write by Nat. again. Suck will not be able to go, as she is still confined. Little Critta will go. My love to my dear Martha. Adieu affectionately.\nP.S. Corn @ 15/ here and rising. Very scarce. I am obliged to buy considerably.\u2014I must trouble you for another land warrant for 25. acres of land.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0451", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Thomas Mann Randolph, 12 January 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Randolph, Thomas Mann\nTh:J. to TMR.\nMonticello Jan. 12. 96.\nI wrote you by post. The weather having broke away we are trying to get the waggon off before the river becomes impassable. I put on board her a box for Mr. Wythe containing my whole and precious collection of the printed laws of Virginia, to be bound as noted to Mr. Wythe who has occasion to keep them some time for his use. I have taken the liberty of saying you would answer the charges of the binder (Bran) for binding, and procure for him an unbound copy of the collection of 1794. which is to make the 8th. volume of the whole. Maria has attended to the execution of Martha\u2019s memorandums, and has noted what is done under each on the inclosed paper. Suck goes as well as Critta. I have still a pipe of wine remaining at James Brown\u2019s. Being entirely unacquainted with Billy\u2019s sobriety and honesty I must leave to yourself to judge whether you think he may be relied on to bring it up unadulterated, and if you think so, and he should be otherwise unloaded, I will thank you to give him an order to recieve it from Mr. Brown. My love to my dear Martha, and Adieu affectionately.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0453", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to George Wythe, 16 January 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Wythe, George\nTh:J. to G. Wythe\nMonticello Jan. 16. 96.\n  I was so hurried to get ready my collection of printed laws before the departure of the waggon, that I did the work imperfectly. I have since found the laws of 1783. May and Octob. which I should be glad to have added to the end of my 6th. volume. If you can procure a copy of those of 1773. I will pray you to add it to the end of the 5th. volume, and in both cases to make corresponding changes in the middle one of the three printed labels proposed on these volumes. Indeed I would wish the middle label of the Vth. volume to be\nFugitive Sheets 1734\u20131773\nand of the VIth. to be\nFugitive Sheets 1775\u20131783\nI chuse to bring down the VIth. volume to 1783. that it may terminate at the same period with the Chancellors revisal.\nI write you a separate letter which perhaps may lead to the preservation of these laws. Perhaps your friend Mr. Taylor, of whom I hear so many good and clever things, may think this business worthy his patronage. Adieu affectionately.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0455", "content": "Title: Enclosure: Statement of the Laws of Virginia, 13 January 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Wythe, George\nEnclosureStatement of the Laws of Virginia\nA statement of the Volumes of the Laws of Virginia, Manuscript and Printed in my possession\nA M.S. marked A. given me by the late Peyton Randolph. It had belonged to his father Sr. John Randolph, who had collected papers with a view to write the history of Virginia. It is attested by R. Hickman, and contains the acts of 1623/4 Mar. 5. 35. acts\nMS. marked  purchased of the executors of the late Peyton Randolph, having been among the collections of Sr. John Randolph. From the resemblance of  the mark to some I have formerly [seen] in the Secretary\u2019s office, I suspect this to be an original volume of records, [probab]ly borrowed by Sr. John Randolph. It contains the laws from 1629. to 1633.\n[MS.] marked F. purchased from the administrator of Colo. Richard Bland deceased. It contains laws from 1639 to 1667.\nMS. marked D. purchased from the administrator of Colo. Richard Bland deceased. It contains laws from 1642/3 to 1661/2.\nMS. copied by myself of the laws of 1660/1 Mar. 23.\nMS. from the Charles City office, to which it belongs probably. I found it in Lorton\u2019s tavern, brought in to be used for waste paper. Much had already been cut off for thread papers and other uses. Debnam, the then clerk, very readily gave it to me, as also another hereafter mentioned. It still contains from chap. 31. of the session of 1661/2 to 1702.\nMS. marked B. purchased of the executors of the late Peyton Randolph, part of Sr. John Randolph\u2019s collection. It contains laws from 1662. to 1697.\nMS. Appendix to a copy of Pervis\u2019s collection from the Westover library, given by the late Colo. W. Byrd to Mr. Wayles, whose library came to my hands.\nMS. from the Charles City office, given to me by Debnam as abovementioned. It contains from c. 2. to c. 53. of the laws of 1705.\nMS. given me by the present John Page of Rosewell. It had belonged to Matthew Page his grandfather, who was one of the Committee of 1705. for revising the laws, and was probably furnished with this copy for that work.\nPrinted laws.\nPervis\u2019s collection. This forms the 1st. vol. of my collection of the Printed laws of Virginia.\nRevisal of 1732. This forms the 2d. vol.\nRevisal of 1748. This is vol. the 3d.\nRevisal of 1768. This is vol. the 4th.\nFugitive sheets of the laws of particular sessions bound together from 1734. to 1772. Making vol. the 5th.\nRevisal of 1783. by the Chancellors. Making vol. 7th.\nRevisal of 1794. Making vol. the 8th.\nTh: Jefferson Jan. 13. 1796.\nA statement of the particular acts of the assembly of Virginia in my possession either MS. or Printed, and of those not in my possession, and presumed to be lost.\nThe first session of assembly ever held in Virginia. Lost.\n  Lost.\n  Lost.\n  I have in MS.\n  Lost.\n  I have in MS.\n  I have in MS.\n  I have in MS.\n  60 acts. I have in MS.\n  6 acts in MS\n  16 acts in MS.\n  in MS.\n  the 21st. & 22d. acts in MS.\n  a revisal. I have in MS.\n  in MS.\n  in MS.\n  in MS.\n  in MS.\n  in MS.\n  in MS.\n  in MS.\n  in MS.\n  in MS.\n  in MS.\n  in MS.\n  in MS.\n  in MS.\n  in MS.\n  A revisal in MS.\n  in MS.\n  in MS.\n  in MS.\n  in MS.\n  Chap. 1. to 138. inclusive. Printed.\n  9 Acts. Printed. [3. 9. Inserted.]\n  Chap. 2. 3. 4. Printed.\n  Chap. 1. 2. 3. 4. Printed\n  Chap. 3. Printed.\n  Chap. 1. to 20. in MS.\n  Chap. 1. to 17. Printed.\n  Chap. 1. to 13. Printed.\n  Chap. 2. Printed.\n  Chap. 1. to 11. in MS.\n  Chap. 12. Printed.\n  Chap. 1. to 7. in MS.\n  Chap. 1. to 7. in MS.\n  Chap. 1. to 5. in MS.\n  Chap. 1. to 6. in MS.\n  Chap. 1. to 14. in MS.\n  Chap. 1. in MS.\n  no law past at this session.\n  Chap. 1. to 16. in MS.\n  Chap. 1. to 4. in MS.\n  Chap. 1. to 6. in MS.\n  Chap. 1. a part of it i]n MS.\n  [no act passed.]\n  Chap. 1.] to 11. Lost.\n  Chap. 1. to] 4. Lost.\n  Chap. 2. 3. Printed.\n  1. in MS.\u2007\u2007\u2007\u2007Here the MSS. end.\n  Chap. 4. 5. Printed.\n  Chap. 1.2. 3. 5. Printed.\n  4. Lost.\n  Chap. 1. 3. The substance Printed in Beverley\u2019s abridgment.\n  Chap. 1. 2. Lost.\n  1. 2. Substance in Beverl. abr.\n  Chap. 1. to 19. Printed.\n  Chap. 1. to 20. Printed.\n  Here begins my collection of the Fugitive sheets of Laws printed for each session.\n  31 Acts. Printed.\n  25 Acts Printed.\n  25 Acts Printed.\n  15 Acts. Printed.\n  1 Act. Printed.\n  33 Acts. Printed.\n  46 Acts. Printed.\n  30 Acts. [Printed\n  2 Acts. Lost.\n  5 Acts. Lost.\nChap.\n  53] Acts. Printed.\n  28 Acts. Printed.\n  3 Acts. Printed.\n  3 Acts. Printed.\n  7 Acts. Printed.\n  24]. Acts. Printed.\n  8 Acts. Printed.\n  6 Acts. Printed.\n  13 Acts. Printed.\n  3 Acts. Printed\n  [30]. Acts. Printed.\n  [2]. Acts. Printed.\n  13 Acts. Printed\n  1 Act. Printed.\n  34 Acts. Printed.\n  6 Acts. Printed\n  3 Acts. Printed.\nPrinted.\n  4 Acts. Printed.\n  31 Acts. Printed.\n  13 Acts. Printed.\n  3 Acts. Printed.\n  7 Acts. Printed.\n  44 Acts. Printed.\n  13 Acts. Printed\n  13 Acts. Printed.\n  54 Acts. Printed.\n  61 Acts. Printed.\n  7 Acts. Printed.\n  a Convention. No act passed.\n  89 Acts. Printed.\n  4 Acts. Printed.\n  68 Acts. Printed.\n  16 Acts. Lost from my collection.\n  dissolved before any act passed.\n  the last assembly under the Royal government. It was discontinued by not meeting on it\u2019s own adjournment, without having passed any Law.\nConventions.\n  Ordinances. Printed.\n  Ordinances. Printed.\n  Ordinances. Printed.\nAssemblies.\n  Acts. Printed.\n  Acts. Printed.\n  Acts. Printed.\n  Acts. Printed.\n  Acts. Printed.\n  Acts. Printed.\n  Acts. Printed.\n  Acts. Printed.\n  Acts. Printed.\n  Acts. Printed.\n  Acts. Printed.\n  Acts. Printed.\n  Acts. Printed\n  Acts. Printed.\nNote that the terms \u2018Printed\u2019 or \u2018in MS.\u2019 mean that I have the Laws Printed or in MS.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0456", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to John Barnes, 17 January 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Barnes, John\nDear Sir\nMonticello Jan. 17. 1796.\nThis serves to advise you that I have this day drawn on you for [150]. Doll. at three days sight in favor of Mr. Charles Johnston & Co. of Richmond, which please to honor. Several little disbursements which you have made for me, of unknown amount, render it desireable to recieve a continuation of your last account.\nYesterday came to hand a box of Segars, which I presume is from you. I expected it would have been accompanied by the tea. I recieved some time ago, two pair of shoes from Mr. Starr. Mr. Peyton seems so positive that the boots and half boots were delivered to the same captain, that I am induced to trouble you with the enquiry. I am assured by  Gamble & Temple that the shoes only were delivered to them. Have I before desired you to pay Messrs. Bache and Brown a year\u2019s newspapers each? If I have not, be so good as to do it. I am with great esteem Dear Sir Your most obedt. servt\nTh: Jefferson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0457", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Thomas Mann Randolph, 18 January 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Randolph, Thomas Mann\nTh:J. to TMR.\nMonticello. Monday Jan. 18. 96.\nYour waggon with Suck and Critta set off from here on Wednesday the 13th. By the time they got to Pouncey\u2019s hill they found the roads so deep that they could not get along. They returned to Edgehill and carried the greatest part of their load to Milton to be sent down by water. Since that such floods of rain have fallen, and the river so risen that all communication has been cut off for some days. Every boat and batteau at Milton is carried off, one of them loaded. I hope your things were not yet aboard any boat, but do not know. The river was still rising last night. I have not heard from it this morning: and write the present under uncertainty whether we can get it to the post office by the evening.\u2014Your favor of the 12th. is recieved. The letter to Mr. Millar shall go to him this evening, or as soon as Moore\u2019s creek is passable, and your order in his favor shall be paid. You have a right to draw freely, for the hire of the four men (not 5. as your letter seemed to suppose) will leave me still considerably in your debt. Essex sets off down to-day. The other three remain.\u2014I am sorry for the sentiment expressed in the close of your letter. Your health is certainly bad. That is visible to the eye. No body has seen it with more anxiety than my self: but never with any apprehensions as to the issue. At your time of life the resources of nature are so powerful that, in a case which gives her time, they are infallible. In the whole course of my observations, I cannot recollect one instance of a chronic complaint in any person of your age not being surmounted, except in the case of consumption, which is not yours. One very disagreeable circumstance indeed is the effect of the disease on your spirits. But this is merely mechanical. It is not the result of reasoning on the known nature of your complaint. That I am satisfied is known to nobody. The wisest physicians agree in another fact, that there never was an instance of a chronic complaint relieved by medecine, even where the character of the disease is known. But where it is unknown, medecine  is given at hap-hazard, and may do much mischief. Keep up your strength then, by such exercise as you find does not fatigue you, and by eating such things and in such quantities as you find you can digest. This will give time to the vis medicatrix naturae, which, if it be not thwarted in it\u2019s efforts by medecine, is infallible in it\u2019s resources at your time of life. It\u2019s efforts would indeed be immensely aided if you could, by the force of reason and confidence in her, counteract the mechanical effects of the disease on your spirits. But if you cannot do this, still exercise moderately, eat soberly but sufficiently, and take no medecine, and your friends will have nothing to fear. I think we may strongly conjecture that your complaint is a gout, because no other disease is so long in declaring itself, and because you have a hereditary expectation of that. However if the symptoms be permitted to develope themselves, they will in time unfold the disease, and bring on that crisis which is contrived by nature to relieve it. That this may be soon we all sincerely pray. My love to my dear Martha. I will write to her by the next post, and shall doubtless be able to tell her then as I am now that Jefferson is in high health. Adieu to both of you affectionately.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0458", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to John Barnes, 24 January 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Barnes, John\nDr. Sir\nMonticello Jan. 24. 1796.\nYour favor of Dec. 24. came to hand yesterday. The present serves to [advise] you that on the 22d. instant I drew on you for 10[0] Dollars in favor of David Jackson or order and this day for 86. Doll. 28\u00bd Cents in favor of Isaac Millar or order, which be pleased to honor on account of Sir Your very humble servt\nTh: Jefferson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0462", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Martha Jefferson Randolph, 25 January 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Jefferson, Martha (Martha Jefferson Randolph),Randolph, Martha Jefferson\nMy dear Martha\nAfter the departure of my last letter to Mr. Randolph I found the details I had given him respecting the waggon were erroneous. The rise of the river had cut off our communications for several days. I presume it arrived at Varina as soon as my letter.\nWe are all well here. Jefferson particularly so. He is become the finest boy possible. Always in good humor, always amusing himself, and very orderly. It appears that his continued fretfulness before was owing to his being teazed by his companions.\u2014I hope Mr. Randolph received my letter covering the commission for taking the depositions of the Shockoe inspectors. The notice given is for Saturday next, at noon at the warehouse. The notice has been duly served, so that if the business can be then done, we shall have no further trouble with it.\u2014We have had two or three days of extreme cold. The thermometer was down to 15\u00b0.\u2014I hear that P. Carr is at Philadelphia. He was to form the depositions of the Inspectors so as to leave nothing further to be done but to swear to them. But as I did not hear from him I presume he did nothing. Maria and Virginia give their love to you. Jefferson is always talking of sending letters to you. Kiss Anne for me, and present my best esteem to Mr. Randolph. Adieu Your\u2019s affectionately\nTh: Jefferson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0463", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Van Staphorst & Hubbard, 27 January 1796\nFrom: Van Staphorst & Hubbard\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nSir\nAmsterdam 27 January 1796\nBeing deprived of your very esteemed favors Since our last Respects of 5 Ultimo, We have but to return you inclosed with Protests for Non Acceptance and non payment, the Bill You remitted us\nNathl. Anderson of 11 June 1794 at 60 days Sight on Wm. Anderson of London for 39.17.10\u00bd Stg. with our Endorsement of Same, to enable You to recover the principal, Costs, Interest and Damages, for the account of Mr. Philip Mazzei.  The costs of the protests Eleven Shillings Sterling, We shall charge to Mr. Mazzei. We are respectfully, Sir! Your mo: ob: hb: Servts.\nN. & J. Van Staphorst & Hubbard", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0464", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from John Adams, 31 January 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhiladelphia January 31. 1796\nI have received from our old Acquaintance D\u2019Ivernois the inclosed Volume for you in the Course of the last Week.\nI consider all Reasoning upon French affairs of little moment. The Fates must determine hereafter as they have done heretofore. Reasoning has been all lost\u2014Passion, Prejudice, Interest, Necessity has governed and will govern; and a Century must roll away before any permanent and quiet System will be established. An Amelioration of human affairs I hope and believe will be the Result, but You and I must look down from the Battlements of Heaven if We ever have the Pleasure of Seeing it.\nThe Treaty is not arrived and Congress seems averse to engage in Business with spirit till that is considered.\nI envy you the society of your Family but another Year and one Month may make me the Object of Envy. Mean time I am, with Esteem & Affection your\nJohn Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0465", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Madison, 31 January 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhilada. Jany. 31. 1796\nI inclose a letter from Jno. Bringhurst explaining a claim on you for about \u00a317. Pa. Currency, and requesting me to advance it. Taking him to be an honest man in distress, I shall probably venture a compliance with his solicitation, if it should be found that he cannot wait for your orders. In the mean time you can inform me whether the account be accurately stated: but if so, you need not forward the money, as it will be equally convenient to me to receive it in Virginia.\nThe original of the British Ratification of the Treaty is still to arrive, and we are not likely to be furnished with a copy. Some members are anxious to apply to the President for the communication, and some would take up the subject on its mere notoriety. It is pretty evident however, that either attempt would be defeated by the advantage which the rub against the P. in one case, and the informality in the other, would give to the friends of the Treaty, in the discussion, and the pretext they would afford to the insincere or cautious opponents. The Treaty with Spain also is not yet [arri]ved, tho\u2019 there is reason for hourly expecting it. The same as to the [Treaty] with Algiers. You will see in the gazette inclosed a sketch of the debate on the proposition to employ Robinson of Petersburg as Stenographer to the House of Reps. The more the subject is opened, the more the objections are found to be insuperable. There is little doubt that the project will be rejected.\n  A committee of ways and means are employed in investigating our revenues and our wants. It is found that there are between six and seven millions of anticipations due to the Banks, that our ordinary income is barely at par with our ordinary expenditures, and that new taxes must be ready to meet near 1\u00bd millions which will accrue in 1801. The proposition of the Treasury is to fund the anticipations and the foreign debt due in instalments, with an absolute irredeemability for such a period, say 20 or 30 years, as will sell the new Stock at par. This is treading as fast on the heels of G.B. as circumstances will permit. It is probable the House will not consent to such an abandonment of the sound principles it has been latterly favoring; but loans at least in some form or other will be indispensable, in order to face the demands on the public until new taxes can be brought into action. With respect to [this, t]he Committee are now in deliberation and embarrassments. The excise system is unproductive, and new excises that will be popular even in the Eastern States do not occur. On the other hand direct taxes have been so blackened in order to recom[mend] the fiscal policy of indirect ones, and to inspire hatred, and jealousies in the Eastern [against the Southern States, and particularly] Virginia, that it is doubtful whether the measure, now that it is become necessa[ry, will be born]e. Gallatin [is] a real Treasure in this department of legislation. He is sound in his principles, accurate in his calculations and indefatigable in his researches. Who could have supposed that Hamilton could have gone off in the triumph he assumed with such a condition of the finances behind him?\nYou will see that Govr. Adams has lanced a pretty bold attack against the Treaty. The Legislature have not yet answered his speech. Their unhandsome treatment of the Virga. amendments portends a countertone.  Nothing could more than this treatment demonstrate the success with which party calumny has sown animosity and malignity in the State of Massts. against a State which feels no return of illwill, and towards Which there were formerly in that quarter the strongest habits of cordiality and cooperation. Yrs. always & affey.\nJs. M. Jr\nThe navigation project of Genl. Smith waits for a favorable moment of discussion. The Treaty party would make war on it, as secretly levelled at that transaction, and thus endeavor to escape the consequences of sacrificing the obvious interests of the Eastern States.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0466", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Philip Mazzei, 31 January 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Mazzei, Philip\nMy dear friend\nMonticello Jan. 31. 1796.\nIt is very long since I heard from you unless it be an exception that I received within these two or three days for the first time your letters of May 23. 1792. and Feb. 11. 1793. the contents of which shall be attended to. Nor have I for a long time heard from Messrs. Van Staphorsts & Hubbard. My letters to you of May and Sep. last will have informed you that at the same dates I remitted to them the following bills recieved from Mr. Blair.\nMay 27. 1795. Anderson\u2019s bill on Wm. Anderson of London, dated 1794. June 11. payable to V.S. & H.\nalso Meade\u2019s bill on Barclay of London, payable to V.S. & H. dated Apr. 4. 95.\n  Sep. 8. Hodgson\u2019s bill on Robinson, Saunderson & Rumney of Whitehaven, payable to Hunter, endorsed to V.S. & H. & dated Aug. 17. 95.\n  on this day I remit them the same Hodgson\u2019s bill on the same Robinson &c. payable to Hunter, endorsed to V.S. & H. & dated Dec. 21. 95.\n  which several remittances, amounting in the whole to the sum of\nhave been made in triplicates, and were expressed to be on your account.\nI had counted with confidence on our recovering, this spring, the money for Colle. But one of the debtors being bankrupt, and the other so distressed as to use all possible shifts, our lawyer thought it best to accept the assumpsit of Mr. Charles Carter of Blenheim in discharge of our suit. Mr. Carter has failed in his promise, so we are at sea again. No time shall be lost however in getting the money. It is absolutely sure in the end. I give this information to the V.S. & H.\u2014Recollecting no small news, but the marriage of Mr. Madison of Orange, the death of T.  Pleasants of 4. mile creek, and the resignation, say removal of E.R. from the Secretary of state\u2019s office, and in hopes of hearing from you soon, I shorten my letter because it is to be forwarded in triplicates. Adieu Yours affectionately\nTh: Jefferson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0467", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Thomas Mann Randolph, 31 January 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Randolph, Thomas Mann\nTh:J. to TMR.\nMonticello Jan. 31. 96.\nWe are all well here. Jefferson was never in finer health. Tho\u2019 our winter has on the whole been a fine one, we have had some severe weather. This morning the thermometer was at 1\u00b0\u00be above nought; I never before saw it below 6\u00b0. in this state. The wind has got Southwardly and promises a change. Corn is a very scarce article in our neighborhood. My crop of it fell vastly short of even moderate expectations, which added to much waste before I was aware of it promises me a year of greater difficulty than I have known.\nI am a little uneasy at not having heard whether you recieved my letter covering the commission in my suit with Cobbs. If the deposition\u2019s are taken I should be glad to recieve them by post that we may see what may be made of them.\u2014The death of T. Pleasants of 4. mile creek, announced in the papers, deranges my plan of being furnished with fish for my people: and my want of acquaintance in Richmond leaves me at a loss to whom to apply. I have been well supplied from Darmstads but the fish were previously examined by T. Pleasants. I should imagine that on being informed I would take from him every year, he would take pains to serve me well. Still I should be at his mercy for price and quality and I do not know his character. If Russell deals in that article, I might trust to him for my annual supply. I must ask your advice on this subject, which your knolege of these and other traders in that article, and opportunities of conferring with them will enable you to give me.  My love to my dear Martha, and to Anne also. I shall be happy to hear of your better health. Adieu affectionately.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0468", "content": "Title: Deed of Manumission for James Hemings, 5 February 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: \nThis indenture made at Monticello in the county of Albemarle and commonwealth of Virginia on the fifth day of February one thousand seven hundred and ninety six witnesseth that I Thomas Jefferson of Monticello aforesaid do emancipate, manumit and make free James Hemings, son of Betty Hemings, which said James is now of the age of thirty years so that in future he shall be free and of free condition, and discharged of all duties and claims of servitude whatsoever, and shall have all the rights and privileges of a freedman. In witness whereof I have hereto set my hand and seal on the day and year abovewritten, and have made these presents double of the same date, tenor and indenture one whereof is lodged in the court of Albemarle aforesaid to be recorded, and the other is delivered by me to the said James Hemings to be produced when and where it may be necessary.\nTh: Jefferson\nSigned, sealed and delivered\nin presence of\nJohn Carr\nFrancis Anderson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0469", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Madison, 7 February 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhilada. Feby. 7. 1796\nSeveral mails preceding that of yesterday brought nothing more Southern than Baltimore. This will account for my not receiving your favor of the 24th. Ult., till yesterday. I will make the inquiries, and execute the commissions in it with pleasure, and without delay. I am afraid to make the same promise as to the weekly history of what passes in the Government behind the curtain; especially as the Cypher might be required for some parts of it. What I can I will do on the subject. I have already made a partial collection of the Tracts you wish. I know not what is meant by the correspondence of Jay and Jefferson; probably it is the correspondence not between them, but between each and others.\nI thank you for the Copy of your statement and letter to Mr. Wythe. I value it not only as a gratification to myself; but as another security for the preservation of the document.\nDorhman maintains a silence, that justifies strong suspicions of aversion or inability to pay his debts. I feel no longer any other restraints from resorting to his deed of trust, but that which Mazzei\u2019s interest dictates. As yet the land would sell for considerably less than the sum due. The general rise of price which is going on will probably soon remove this difficulty, especially if the Treaty with Spain, should have done what is hoped, as to the navigation of the Mississippi.\nYou will see that the aspect of English affairs grows more and more lowering. The alarm of the Sedition Bills, the bounty on foreign Wheat and flour, the detention of the armament fitted up, for the forlorn experiment in the West Indies, are more portentous than any thing previous to these signs of a ripening crisis. The accounts from France are not of very late date, but continue to be auspicious. The Treaties with Algiers and Spain, loiter as that with England did. It is to be hoped this is the only instance in which the parallel holds.\nAn idea begins to shew itself that an unrestrained exportation of the Bread-articles, threatens a scarcity in our own Country. The large towns will of course be the first seat of such an apprehensions. It is certain that the Crops of Grain in North Carolina failed to such a degree as to start the price of Corn at a dollr. a bushel, where it used to sell at \u2153 of a dollar. In Virginia, if the present price be the measure of the quantity, there will be little corn to spare, and probably not a great deal more of Wheat. In this State it is turning out more and more in evidence that the crop of Wheat has been very scanty. The Eastern States always require large importations from the others. In N.J. and N.Y. alone, the crops of Wheat appear to have been good; and that is probably exaggeration  on the favorable side. Flour at present in this place is rising under the information of the English bounty. All in the Market is said to be bought up, probably by English Agents. It sold a day or two ago, or rather there was offered for it, 14 dollrs. a barrel, and the best informed, speak with confidence of successive rises. In this attitude of things What a noble stroke would be an embargo? It would probably do as much good as harm at home; and would force peace, on the rest of the World, and perhaps liberty along with it. But you know the spell within the Government, as well as the obstacles to such a measure in the clamors that would be raised among the Merchants, the Millers, and farmers, to say nothing of the Tories &c. who would make more noise than any of them.\nI intreat you not to procrastinate, much less abandon your historical task. You owe it to yourself, to truth, to the world. Adieu always yours most affey\nThere is some reason to think that Jno. Rutledge is not right in his mind. Cushing has been put at the head of the Bench, but it is said will decline the pre-eminence. Chase in the place of Blair!!!! A vacancy remains to be filled. McHenry Secretary at War\u2014Through what official interstice can a ray of republican truths now penetrate to the P.\nYou will see by the inclosed letter [from J.] B. that I have ad[vanced] him 25 drs. I have already told you that repayment in Virga. will [serve] for me as well as [here.]", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0470", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Thomas Mann Randolph, [7 February 1796]\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Randolph, Thomas Mann\nTh:J. to TMR.\nYour two favors of Jan. 24. and Feb. 3. are both recieved. We have had a very fine winter a few days only excepted about the middle of January. This day sennight was the coldest morning ever known in this  country as far as my observations have gone. The mercury was at 1\u00be\u00b0. I never before saw it lower than 6\u00b0. in Virginia.\u2014From what I hear of the state of the three notched road I am sorry I proposed the bringing up my wine, as I am afraid Billy\u2019s team will either fail in it, or be extremely injured by it. I will pay all the attention I can to your affairs at Edgehill. I shall scarcely be able to go there, being so unable to ride, that I have not been to Shadwell for a month past. There is vast alarm here about corn. The price at present from 15/ to 18/. but not to be had indeed at any price. My situation on that subject is threatening beyond any thing I ever experienced. We shall starve literally if I cannot buy 200 barrels, and as yet I have been able to find but 60.\u2014Mr. Divers shall recieve immediately the payment you desire, of 120.D. I trouble you to return my certificates for the 800. and 100. acres in Bedford, and to obtain the grants. I must also repeat my petition for the land warrant of 50. acres, as I have that quantity still to secure in Campbell county. The delay of my letter of the 6th. has been unfortunate. There would be time still, were I to send an express to Buckingham to give a 3d. notice to Cobbs, and then another to Richmond. But this is very troublesome, and if the Inspectors will give a certificate of the tobaccos past by Cobbs for 2. or 3 years before and after 1786. we will try to have it recieved as evidence.\u2014Faris is gone down and promised me to call on Britton again for the machine. The difficulty has been to find him at home. Should he fail this time it would be well to have the machine carried back to Colo. Gamble\u2019s, from whence it can be got at any time. I am sorry you are to be plagued with forwarding a 2d. rope, but we can not proceed either to demolish our walls or dig our cellars till the columns are taken out of the way. We have had enough else to do hitherto in cutting coal wood so that we have not suffered for want of the roap as yet. While you are getting this I will thank you to get and forward also a cord for our kitchen jack, which has been unemployed 6. months for want of one. If you can put me on the trace of the 1st. rope you sent, if it was by any of our boatmen, perhaps I may be able to find it out, and at least make them pay for it. When on the subject of Cobbs I omitted to mention that I never recieved a sentence from P. Carr respecting it. If he wrote at all, his letter miscarried; but I imagine he only meant that he would write, and was too lazy to carry his intention into execution.\u2014My nailrod is arrived safe. The hoop iron I presume is with the cutting machine as they came together.\u2014Maria has found your succory seed, which shall be sent by the first safe opportunity. Jefferson is well as we all are. My love to my dear Martha, and kisses to Anne. Adieu affectionately.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0471", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to John Barnes, 14 February 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Barnes, John\nDear Sir\nMonticello Feb. 14. 96.\nAs I imagine your river will be opening by the time you recieve this, I will ask the favor of you to send me by the first vessel to Richmond a hogshead (say 120 gallons) of molasses. It is material it should come immediately as it cannot be brought up from Richmond here but in the cold season. I am with great esteem Dear Sir Your friend & servt\nTh: Jefferson\nP.S. There are very often to be had at Philadelphia kegs of Cod\u2019s tongues and sounds. I should be very glad of a keg if to be had.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-14-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0472", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Martha Jefferson Randolph, 14 February 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Jefferson, Martha (Martha Jefferson Randolph),Randolph, Martha Jefferson\nMonticello Feb. 14. 96.\n  We are all well here, my dear daughter, and Jefferson particularly so. He often repeats that you told a story, \u2018that you did,\u2019 when you got into the carriage and said you would come back for him. His cheeks swell with emphasis as he asseverates this. We are just beginning our demolitions, and find they will be very troublesome. It was high time to do it, from the rotten state in which we found some of our timbers.\u2014The first time Mr. Randolph goes to Richmond, I will ask the favor of him to call on Swan, the cabinet maker, who is agent for Mr. Lownes my iron merchant in Philadelphia. Lownes is in arrears with me twenty three hundred weight of nailrod, and informed me that Swan had standing directions from him to furnish at all times any quantities I should call for. I wrote to Mr. Swan a month ago to know if he could furnish me this 23. \u20ac weight, but have no answer, and from his inattention to business, expect to get none, unless Mr. Randolph will be so good as to call on him, and write me his answer, and by no means trust to his doing  it himself. Adieu affectionately my dear Martha; kisses to Anne, and my best salutations to Mr. Randolph.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0473", "content": "Title: James Hemings\u2019s Inventory of Kitchen Utensils at Monticello, [20 February 1796]\nFrom: Hemmings, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nInvetory of Kitchen Utincils\n19 Copper Stew pans\u201419 Covers\n\u20076 Small Sauce pans\n  \u20073 Copper Baking Moulds\n  \u20072 Small preserving pans\n  \u20072 Large\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2014\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003Ditto\n  \u20072 Copper Fish kettles\n  \u20072 Copper Brazing pans\n  \u20072 Round Large \u2014 Ditto\n  \u20072 Iron Stew pans\n  \u20072 Large Boiling kettles tin\u2019d inside\n  \u20071 Large Brass\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2014\u2003\u2003\u2003Ditto\n12 pewter water Dishes\n  \u20073 Tin Coffie pots\n  \u20078 Tin Dish Covers\n  \u20072 frying pans of Iron & one of Copper\n  \u20074 Round Baking Copper Sheets tin\u2019d\n  \u20074 Square Copper Ditto untin\u2019d\n  \u20071 Copper Boiler\n\u20071 Copper tea kettle 1 Iron Ditto\n\u20072 Small Copper Baking pans\n\u20071 Turkish Bonnet Baking mould\n\u20073 Waffel Irons\n\u20072 Grid Irons\n\u20072 Spits\u20141 Jack\u20143 Cleavers\u20142 hold fasts\n\u20073 Copper Laidles\u20144 Copper Spoons\u20141 Basing Spoon\n\u20073 Copper Skimmers\u20142 Cast Iron Bakers\n\u20072 pair Tongs\u20142 Shovels\u20141 poker\u20141 Bake Shovel\n\u20072 Large Iron pots\u20142 Dutch ovens\n\u20071 Iron Chaffing Dish,\u201421 Small Copper Baking moulds\n\u20072 Gelly moulds\u20142 Treising moulds\n\u20071 Butter Tin kettle\u20142 Culinders\u20141 tin 1 of pewter\n\u20071 Brass Culinder 2 Graters\u20141 old Copper fish kettle\n\u20079 wooden Spoons\u20143 past cuting moulds\n\u20071 Brass pistle & mortar\u20141 Marble Ditto\n\u20072 wooden paste Rolers\u20142 Chopping Knives\n\u20076 Iron Crevets\u20143 tin tart moulds\u20145 Kitchen apperns\n\u20071 old Brass Kettle\u20141 Iron Candle stick\n\u20072 Brass Chaffing Dishes", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0474", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to John Barnes, 21 February 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Barnes, John\nDear Sir\nMonticello Feb. 21. 1796.\nI recieved yesterday your two favors of Jan. 30. and Feb. 8. the accidents of the season having delayed the former a week. I am mortified at my own inattention to the state of our accounts, which tho\u2019 till yesterday I could not know accurately, as the exact amount of some of the particulars had not been communicated, yet I could not have mistaken so as to have overdrawn as much as I have done. I am very thankful for the honor you have nevertheless done my bills, and lose not a moment in covering your advances by inclosing an authority to recieve 629.D. 10c. immediately and 314.D. 55c. at about [5 or] 6. weeks date, on which basis you can, if necessary, safely take the money from a bank, and debit me the discount. Be assured you shall never suffer by any confidence you are pleased to place in me. It is not necessary to forward the vouchers mentioned in your letter. I ought before now to have observed to you that in all cases of purchasing and forwarding articles to me I have expected and wish you to charge me your usual commission for business of that kind. I am with great esteem Dear Sir Your most obedt servt\nTh: Jefferson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0475", "content": "Title: Enclosure: Power of Attorney for John Barnes, 21 February 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: \nPower of Attorney for John Barnes\nKnow all men by these presents that I Thomas Jefferson named in a certain letter of attorney from William Short of the state of Virginia and one of the ministers of the US. abroad to me bearing date the 2d. day of April 1793. and now lodged in the bank of the US. by virtue of the power and authority thereby given me, do substitute and appoint John Barnes of Philadelphia, as well my own as the true and lawful attorney and substitute of the said William Short named in the said letter of attorney to recieve from the treasury or bank of the US. the interest which became due on the stock of different descriptions of the said William Short registered in the proper office of the US. at the seat of Government in Philadelphia from the 1st. day of July to the 1st. day of October and from the said 1 st. day of October to the 1st. day of January last past, amounting to six hundred and twenty nine dollars ten cents, to wit 314 Dollars 55. cents for each quarter, as also to recieve the interest on the said stock which shall become due from the said 1st. day of January last past to the 1st. day of April next ensuing and becoming payable on the said 1st. day of April amounting to three hundred and fourteen dollars fifty five cents, or to whatever other sum the said interest shall amount. Hereby ratifying and confirming the paiment of the said interest to the said John Barnes, and the discharge which he shall give for the same as done by virtue of the power of attorney aforesaid. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 21st. day of February 1796.\nTh: Jefferson\nSealed & delivered in presence of Th: Bell", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0476", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to James Madison, 21 February 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Madison, James\nTh:J. to J.M.\nMonticello Feb. 21. 96.\nI propose to write you a longer letter in answer to your two favors of Jan. 31. and Feb. 7. which came by our last post. But as I may possibly not have time before it\u2019s departure, I inclose you a letter to J. Bringhurst, as the perusal of it will answer that article of your letters. When read, be pleased to seal and send it. I thank you as much for your advance to him as if I had really owed it, and if he does not repay it immediately, let me know it and I will do it. I have always considered paiments for my honor, as debts of honor, whether they were right or wrong. Adieu affectionately", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0477", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Madison, 21 February 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhilada. Feby. 21. 1796\nSince my last I have made enquiry as to Lownes. In general he is well spoken of, in every respect. Old Mr. Howell however, told me he was not a punctual man and was slow in his payments. I then mentioned my reasons for asking him. He proceeded to say that his son dealt in the same article with Lownes, and that if you chose to take your Iron rod here, he would be responsible for the most exact compliance of his son. I next brought Sharpless into view. He spoke of him as a man fully to be relied on, and as a man with whom his son had had some dealings. He said there was but one objection to taking your supplies at short hand from Sharpless, which was that there was very little direct intercourse from Wilmington to Southern ports: that almost every thing exported thence, came first to Philada. I asked whether vessels could not stop there and take in articles; not he said unless the freight of them was an object. As the order of my enquiries drew out the old gentleman\u2019s opinion of Lownes, before he could well feel the interest of his son in the case, his testimony is entitled to respect. I have written to Jno. Bringhurst who resides at Wilmington to get and send me a full account of Sharpless and of the terms on which he would supply you; but have not yet received an answer.\nI find as I conjectured that the provision made for the daughters of Degrasse was not in the way of loan but of gift. It would be difficult perhaps to justify the act in either way, by the text of the Constitution. The precedent nevertheless is in favor of Made. de Chatelleux\u2019s son. Whether his claim will be viewed with the same indulgence on the score of his father\u2019s merits is more than I can venture to decide. The services of De Grasse were critical. Chatelleux you recollect was not a favorite here, tho\u2019 the cause may have been erroneous. Congress also were afraid of the Precedent at the time, and endeavored to interweave ingredients of peculiarity. I am really apprehensive that a compliance with the wishes of Made. de Chat: would entail on us a provision for the families of the whole French army that served in this Country. Congs. are occupied with a Bill for selling the Western lands. Opinions are various and the result doubtful. The British Treaty not yet before us; nor The Spanish before the Senate, or even arrived as far as I know. The Algerine is  come to hand and under the deliberation of the Senate. The history of it contains some curious features, which it is not possible for me to explain in time. In general it costs an immense sum, and the annual tribute is to be paid in naval Stores, infinitely underated in the Tariff. The friendly interference of France, tho\u2019 applied for and in train, was precluded by the Agent\u2019s precipitancy in closing the Treaty; for the hardness of which the apology is that it was the best that could be got. The letter from Paris in the inclosed paper, is Monroe\u2019s, and the latest in date that has been received from him. The federal Court has not yet given judgment in the case of payments into the Virga. Treasury. Marshal and Cambell were the Counsel on one side, and Lewis and Tilghman on the other. Marshal\u2019s argument is highly spoken of. Campbell and Ingersoll will appear vs. the Carrage tax. Hamilton is here and to join Lee on the other side.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0478", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to John Harvie, Jr., 22 February 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Harvie, John, Jr.\nDear Sir\nMonticello Feb. 22. 1796.\nI have been longer than I ought to have been without taking up the subject of our lands, but so it is that every day there is something which must be done and shoving off that which will bear delay. I expected when I came home to be quite at my leisure. On the contrary I never was so hard run with business. In looking over the papers which had been left here when I went to Europe, I have found a treasurer\u2019s receipt for the composition money of those lands dated in 1781. which appears  to have been presented to you to obtain a warrant for surveying the land, and your advice is noted at the bottom to have the lands surveyed first, then to present the survey and receipt to the Auditors for their certificate after which the patent would issue from your office. All this I have no doubt you have forgotten, but still, as being previous to your purchase of the same lands, it removes all objection of want of notice, had there been room for such an objection. However I will make you a proposition which may perhaps save us further trouble. I am told you wish to buy my lands at Pouncey\u2019s hill. I am at this moment under a situation which makes me willing to sell that, and the tract in contest between us, to which I am as confident in my right as in that to the house I live in. A judgment went during the last year against Mr. Wayles\u2019s executors, as security for the late Richd. Randolph, my proportion of which is between 7. and 800.\u00a3. We are indulged with a little time to raise it, and my other resources having been previously engaged I am now on the ways and means of providing for this sum. I can give you your own time for paying the purchase money, because I can command the money if I will say when it shall be repaid, which the possession of your bond, without parting with it, would enable me to do. I have lately been over the land at Pouncey\u2019s and find it very far superior to what I had any idea of. It lies on the ridge between Pouncey\u2019s and Carrol\u2019s creeks, and is as level through the whole as the lands from the Tuckahoe house to the public road. The soil is gray, and of a fine farming quality. The growth large pine with an undergrowth of hiccory and oak. Sharpe, Huckstept and other farmers of the neighborhood declare to me they would rather have it acre for acre for farming than the best red land at the Mountains. Besides the value of the soil, the timber on it is of capital value. My father bought it 40. years ago for it\u2019s timber, but when he built at Shadwell he thought the trees had not yet got sufficient growth. It was the same case when I built here, so that it has escaped being plundered, and has now had 40. years more of growth. It is now in perfection, and such a growth of fine pine I think I never saw. There are very few acres on it which would not furnish 30. stocks, say 3000. f. of plank underreckoned. The lands are within a mile of the sawmill, and the timber of every acre would pay for it\u2019s own cutting and leave more than double the price of the land in hand. There are 400. acres of it, and my price for that and the tract on the mountain is \u00a3700. paiable when it suits you. The quality of that on the mountain you know. I never saw it, but am assured it is fine tobacco land heavily timbered with locust. I certainly never expected to have offered another acre of land for sale. For of all things it is that of which I am the most tenacious. However at this moment, while I am devising the means of facing a securityship which had  not been prepared for, I am willing to part with these lands. If provision be otherwise made, as must be done within a few weeks, if these lands are not now sold, I speak with certainty that during my life they will never again be purchaseable, nor probably in the life which will follow mine. There never before was a moment in which I would have parted with them, and there never will be another. I will ask your answer if you please within a post or two, that I may in time make other provision. Should you not chuse to accede to my proposition, I will without delay send you the statement respecting the lands on the mountain, as you desired, that we may have it adjusted. I am with great esteem Dear Sir Your friend & servt\nTh: Jefferson\n  Plat of the land at Pouncey\u2019s", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0479", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Thomas Mann Randolph, 22 February 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Randolph, Thomas Mann\nTh:J. to TMR.\nMonticello Feb. 22. 96.\nThe last post brought us your favor of the 17th. My nail machine with the hoop iron is safe arrived by Faris as also my wine by Billy. The roads were so bad that he was obliged to put out the rest of his load at Elisha Lake\u2019s about 20. miles above Richmond. I shall get Colo. Bell to engage some waggon to bring them up. Robertson has fallowed about  100 acres. He has done the rich nole, and is now breaking up the Chapel ridge. He can spare me 8. barrels of corn. The peas he has not threshed out but supposes there will be 20. or 30. bushels.\u2014He has delivered all your wheat, at Milton, being 420 bushels. My letters of the 7th. inst. from Philada. inform me flour was then 14. D. and universally admitted it would still rise. I begin to expect 14 or 15/ for our crop of the last year.\u2014We have generally had pretty good weather. The last night there fell about 2\u00bd I. of snow, which however will mostly go off to-day, and we may hope an early spring. The prospect of this will influence the price of corn. 15/ has hitherto been the common price, and 18/ has been given in a few instances. It is held up closely by those who have it for sale, and they are but few. The sending to Richmond Colo. C. Lewis\u2019s and Mr. Harvie\u2019s crops takes off about 500. barrels from our market.\u2014Have you directed Robertson to take on himself a share of the Chapel ridge fence. He spoke to me the other day as having no idea that he was to do any more than his fence along the road, supposing we were to do the whole of the dividing fence. I have directed Page to do one half, the upper one, and told Robertson I thought he should do the lower half.\u2014We are all well here. My warmest love to my dear Martha, kisses to Anne and an affectionate Adieu to yourself with wishes for your better health.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0480", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Archibald Stuart, 22 February 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Stuart, Archibald\nDear Sir\nMonticello Feb. 22. 1796.\nMy letter of Jan. 3. was still in my hands, when the reciept of considerable orders for nails, immediately wanting, prevented my commencing a supply for Staunton. I therefore thought it better to hold up my letter till I could begin on a stock for Staunton. We are now at work on them, and in about 10. days shall have ready a supply of VIs. VIIIs. Xs. XIIs. XVIs. XXs. and of XVI. penny brads. Say 100. \u2114 of each, which shall be followed by successive and timely supplies.\nI percieve by the last Philadelphia prices current that there is a rise of 1d. to 1\u00bd d. per \u2114 on nails. I wait to see if this is permanent or a casualty of the day; in the former case that addition will be made to the prices stated in the former letter. I will thank you to put me immediately into the hands of some good retailer, and I will promise to trouble you no  more on this subject.\u2014I have just recieved my cutting machine, and iron for 4. pennies, which I shall shortly begin to cut. I doubt whether the larger nails will be called for cut, as they are not fit for country work. Should they be desired however, I will provide proper iron and furnish them. Let me hear from you as soon as you can. Adieu Your\u2019s affectionately\nTh: Jefferson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0484", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Van Staphorst & Hubbard, 28 February 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Van Staphorst & Hubbard\nGentlemen\nMonticello in Virginia Feb. 28. 1796.\nI have written to you in date May 27. Sep. 8. and Jan. 31. last past inclosing several remittances for Mr. Mazzei and one for myself by triplicates, to which I refer you.\nIf there be any indiscretion in the application I am now about to make to you, ascribe it to the sentiments of friendship and confidence with which your conduct has inspired me, and which I had wished to make reciprocal, and freely decline it if inconsistent with your convenience, assuring yourselves it will not [in] the least alter my dispositions to esteem and serve you. These can merit respect no longer than they are disinterested. I will be short in my explanation. After an absence of ten years from my estate, I found it much deteriorated, and requiring time and advances to bring it back again to the productive state of which it is very susceptible. But I am only a farmer and have no resource but the productions of the farms themselves to bring them into a state of profit. If their profits be small, their restoration will be slow in proportion. An advance of from one to two thousand dollars would produce a state of productiveness which, without it, will be tardy. My estate is a large one for this country, to wit, upwards of ten thousand acres of valuable land on the navigable parts of James river and two hundred negroes, and not a shilling\u2019s worth of it either is or ever was under any incumbrance for debt. I may be [\u2026] in mentioning this as it is a proper ground whereon to ask you whether you would be willing to answer my draughts on you to any, and what amount within the bounds beforementioned? I ask it of nobody in this country because capitals here are small and employed in more active business than simple loans. I will send you my bond for the money payable at what time or times you please. This by the laws of this state, the same in this respect as those of England, will render my lands as well as my personalty responsible for the debt, in case of my death. The interest, say six per cent, shall be remitted annually, with perfect punctuality tho it would be more convenient to pay it to your agent here; as in my inland situation it is difficult to invest money in good bills. Perhaps it would be more convenient to you that your agent here should furnish the money. At any rate it would be advantageous in the sale of my bills that he should endorse them.\u2014I repeat it again that I do not mean to lay you under any restraint by this application; but  shall be better pleased with your doing on it what best pleases yourselves, only making it known to me as soon as convenient. In every event I shall preserve for you and your interest the sentiments of esteem & respect with which I am Gentlemen Your friend & humble servt\nTh: Jefferson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0486", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Sampson Crosby, 29 February 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Crosby, Sampson\nDear Sir\nMonticello Feb. 29. 96.\nI did not answer your favor of Jan. 18. immediately on the reciept of it because I had written just before it came, to inform you of the reciept of your former letter. I have kept back the present one to be able to acknolege to you the reciept of the blinds themselves which have come safely to hand, and claim a repetition of those thanks which I have so often cause to render you. Wishing you every success and happiness I am affectionately Dear S[ir Y]our friend & servt\nTh: Jefferson", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0487", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from John Harvie, Jr., 29 February 1796\nFrom: Harvie, John, Jr.\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDr Sir\nFeby 29th 1796\nIn Answer to your Letter of the 22nd. of this Month, I am Sorry it is not in my power to Accede to your proposals, in being the purchaser of your pounceys tract of Land, for although the four Acres that lyes between my line and the Louisa Road would be a desirable Acquisition to me on Account of Rail Timber, yet that Object must Yeild to my Inability of becomeing the proprietor of the whole tract many late disappointments in Money Matters makeing it Necessary for me to be very discreet how I Involve myself in further Engagements. The Moiety of the 490 Acres that I hold from James Marks, (the only Subject of Controversy now between us as you Relinquished any Claim to the part I purchased of Colo. Randolph) I think of much less Value than it has been Represented to you, and only Important to me as it lyes back of my line. I am at any Moment ready to have the Right determined between us in the way that shall be most agreeable to yourself. I propose being at Belmont in a week or two at furthest when I will do myself the pleasure of waiting on you. In the Mean time I beg leave to Subscribe myself with the most perfect Esteem Dr Sir Yr friend & most Obt Servt.\nJno Harvie", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0488", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Madison, 29 February 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nDear Sir\nPhilada. Feby. 29. 1796\nThe Treaty with Spain arrived on Tuesday last. It adjusts both the boundary and navigation in a very satisfactory manner. I have not yet been able to decide whether, on the latter point it clashes or not with the British Treaty; the article being differently represented by different members of the Senate. Nor am I able to say whether any of the articles come within the objections to the constitutionality of the British Treaty. In what relates to contraband and other points in the law of Nations, I understand it presents an honorable contrast to Jay\u2019s stipulations. The  Algerine Treaty has some curious features. Among other\u2019s, the sum of one Million paid for the ransom and the peace, does not appear before the Senate, as any part of the Treaty; but has been paid as a verbal part of the Contract, under the authority of the law of appropriation: So that the most material part of the Treaty has been made by the President and the Legislature, without the Treaty-Agency of the Senate. The British Treaty as finally ratified has been republished in the newspapers from foreign copies, but is Still not laid before Congress.\nThe President\u2019s birthday has been celebrated with unexampled splendor. The crisis explains the policy of this. It is remarkable however that the annual motion to adjourn for half an hour to pay the compliment of the day, was rejected this year by 50 vs. 38. altho\u2019 last year on the yeas and nays 13 only voted in the negative.\nNothing from abroad. Bringhurst is making enquiry as to Sharpless. Mr. Rittenhouse the same as to the Kitchen Stoves. Adieu", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0489", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Robert Pollard, 29 February 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Pollard, Robert\nSir\nMonticello Feb. 29. 1796.\nBeing willing on behalf of Mr. Short to subscribe the thirty dollars a share required for carrying on the James river canal, I ask the favor of you to subscribe on his behalf to the amount of the shares he holds, hereby giving you authority for that purpose, and confirming the signature which shall be made by you.\nI will remind you that the titles of the transfers of some of these shares remain still to be forwarded by due, which I suppose has escaped you, not doubting you have taken transfers in due form. I am with esteem Sir Your very humble servt\nTh: Jefferson\nP.S. I have this day drawn on Mr. Charles Johnston & Co. for \u00a315. in favor of Horatio Turpin of which this serves for advice.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "02-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-28-02-0490", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Thomas Mann Randolph, 29 February 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Randolph, Thomas Mann\nTh:J. to TMR.\nMonticello Feb. 29. 96.\nAll are well here and at Edgehill. The most remarkeable fact in our neighborhood is the marriage of Capt. Allcock to Mrs. Walker, widow of Dr. Walker. I have no information of the last week\u2019s work at Edgehill. Mine was never more backward. Petit is entirely ruined by Milton. He is 40. or 50. acres behind Page in his ploughing. He is not more than half done the wheat fallowing; tho\u2019 we have had a fine winter for ploughing. We are engaged in our demolitions, but probably shall not begin our digging till April. Colo. Bell will have my groceries brought on from Leak\u2019s where your waggon was obliged to lighten. Robertson sowed his clover last week, we think it too early. I have been obliged to send to Collins to try to get 4. bushels of seed. I have recieved some of the Albany peas from N. York which I am told is the field pea of Europe. I have enough to try a whole field of them. Spring is now opening on us. The birds issuing from their state of torpor; Narcissuses putting up &c. My love to my dear Martha. Adieu affectionately", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0003", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Pollard, 3 March 1796\nFrom: Pollard, Robert\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Your favor of the 29th last Month I received by post, and have Subscribed the Thirty dollars \u214c Share on each of Mr. Shorts shares in the James River Company, agreeably to Your instructions.\n                    I send you under cover Deeds to Mr. Short for thirteen shares in said Company which I wish safe to hand & am Sir Your Most Obd Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0006", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Martha Jefferson Randolph, 6 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Jefferson, Martha (Martha Jefferson Randolph),Randolph, Martha Jefferson\n                    Our neighborhood my dear daughter furnishes us with not one word of news to you, and I am so fatigued with writing for this post that I can only inform you we are all well, Jefferson robust as a beef, and all our desires alive to see you. My kisses to dear Anne, and best affection\u2019s to Mr. Randolph and yourself. Adieu my dear and love me as I do you.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-08-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0008", "content": "Title: Statement on Accounts as Minister Plenipotentiary in France, 8 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: \n                    The Auditor in his letter of Sep. 28. 95. observes that nothing is requisite to a final settlement of my accounts as Min. Plenipy. of the US. but 1. an adjustment of certain articles of charge against me. 2. Outfit. 3. Houserent. 4. the Period of my commission. I shall proceed therefore to give the necessary explanations on each of these heads.\n                    1. Articles of charge. Some preliminary observations are necessary here.\n                    My account, given in on oath to the Auditor, contains an exact statement of all the monies recieved by me for my own use as M.P. for the US. and he may be assured that no other articles of charge found in any other account, and omitted in this are chargeable to me personally, however they may be blended with my name. This account was signed Oct. 12. 92 and will be referred to by that date.\n                    I have also lately recieved from Mr. Grand a continuation of his public  account from July 15. 87. The only articles of it preceding my departure are\n                    These observations premised, I proceed to explain the articles of charge against me in a paper sent me by the Auditor, called \u201can Abstract from Mr. Grand\u2019s accounts against the US.\u201d containing, I presume, all the articles of charge wherein explanations are desired. I shall take it up therefore article by article.\n                            \u2018Amount of payments from Aug. 7. 84. to July 18. 85. debited me in T. Barclay\u2019s books\n                            paid for expences of office\n                    I know not why it was called a repaiment by me. I rather view it as a technical entry, resulting from the first form of the accounts, and necessary to make them correspond in result with the second form.\n                    18,392\u20b6\u20145\u20146 a late private account erected against me by Mr. Grand, and then transferred to the US. I send a copy of this to the Auditor and observe on the articles as follows.\n                    159\u20b6\u20146 this is a just article of private charge against me. The US. are not concerned in it.\n                    These are just articles of private account against me. They were for expences incurred at Havre previous to my embarcation. But on the 21st. of Oct. I sent Mr. Grand a bill on Willinks, V. Staph. & Hub. for 2687\u0192\u201410 Bo. for the express purpose of covering the draught of 2613\u20b6\u20142 which I had already made, and the monies I either had recieved, or knew I must still call for from Begouen. I conjectured they would amount to 6000.\u20b6 and as Mr. Grand had just before taken a bill of 2687\u0192\u201410 Bo. equivalent to 6000.\u20b6 cash, I sent him a second draught of exactly the same amount in florins, and credited the US. 6000.\u20b6 as will be seen in my account under the date of Oct. 21. 1789. But I do not find that Mr. Grand has credited this 2d sum of 2687\u0192\u201410 either in my private account or in the public one, and judge from present appearances that it has been omitted. The US. being credited for it in my account are no further concerned in the article but it remains to be settled between Mr. Grand and myself, and a balance results from it in my favor of 375\u20b6\u201410 against which he has to count the 159\u20b6\u20146 before mentioned and perhaps [100] as hereafter mentioned.\n                    These articles being a part of the general account of house-rent are a debit against the US. on the same ground with all the previous charges of houserent.\n                    They ought therefore to be credited to Mr. Grand as the former similar articles have been.\n                    \u20181792. Apr. 27. Cathalan 100.\u20b6 I know nothing of this: but it is very possible it may have been for me. I will therefore have an explanation of it with Mr. Grand, and it need not enter into the accounts of the US.\n                    \u20181793. May 25. Virginia 6931\u20b6\u20149s\u20146d. This is an article of [account between] Mr. Grand and the state of Virginia. I closed my gestion of their business at my departure from France, settled my accounts with  them on my arrival here, and obtained their quietus. Mr. Grand seems to have transferred the charge from them to me, that he might afterwards transfer it from me to the US. But neither the US. nor myself have any thing to do with it. However I will, on behalf of Mr. Grand take immediate measures with the Executive of Virginia to procure a settlement and discharge of the balance from them to him.  On the whole, of this 18,392\u20b6\u20145\u20146. it appears that the US. taking to themselves the 5577.\u20b6 houserent, ought to reject all the other articles from their accounts, and leave them to be settled between Mr. Grand, the state of Virginia, and myself.\n                    This finishes the explanations of the articles of the Abstract, not a single one of which has been passed over.\n                    2. Outfit and 3. House rent. It will be necessary here to enter into some developement of the uncertain ground on which Congress first set out in the allowance to their ministers, of their progress, step by step, to the certainty to which they have at length reduced it, to shew in what stage of this process I was placed and what was under contemplation of the old Congress to have done in my special case.\n                    When they made their first appointments, having themselves no experience or knolege of the allowance usually made by other nations, and confiding in the discretion of their ministers, they left it to them to find what should be their expences, engaging to pay those expences and a handsome [allowance] besides for their services. [See their resolutions Sep. 28. 1776 and May 7. 1778.]. The Ministers, on their arrival in Europe, had therefore to do as they saw others of their grade do. In Aug. 1779. Congress settle the allowance which they had promised for their services at \u00a3500 sterl. a year \u2018besides their expences.\u2019 And in Oct. 1779 they establish a fixed salary of \u00a32500. sterl. for both the services and expences of their ministers. But what particular expences were to be considered as those of the Minister, and to be covered by this salary, were not specified, from the same want of information in Congress, which had obliged them from the beginning to go step by step only in fixing the allowances. The Ministers therefore, now as before, enquired into the usage established by other nations; in order to know what expences were considered as those of the Minister, and what of the sovereign. I find on the records a letter from Dr. Franklin, who was one of those earliest appointed, to Mr. Adams, dated June 11. 1781. and transmitted to Congress, wherein he gives this as the result of his enquiries. \u2018As we are all new in these matters I consulted, when I was making up my accounts, one of the oldest foreign ministers here as to the custom in such cases. He informed me that it was not perfectly uniform  with the ministers of all courts: but that in general where a salary was given for service and expences, the expences understood were merely those necessary to the man, such as house keeping, cloathing, and coach: but that the rent of the hotel in which he dwelt, the payment of couriers, the postage of letters, the salary of clerks, the stationary for his bureau, with the feasts and illuminations made on public occasions, were deemed expences of the Prince or State that appointed him, being for the service or honor of his prince or Nation; and either entirely, or in good part, expences that as a private man he would have been under no necessity of incurring. These therefore were to be charged in his accounts. He remarked that it was true the minister\u2019s house keeping, as well as his house, was usually, and in some sort necessarily more expensive than those of a private person. But this he said was considered in his salary to avoid trouble in his accounts: but that where the prince or state had not purchased or built a house for their Minister, which was sometimes the case, they always paid his house-rent.\u2019 On these principles then their accounts were kept. At Paris the US. rented an hotel: at the Hague they resolved to buy one, which was done. See Resolution Dec. 27. 1782. On the 7th. of May 1784. they [reduced] the salary from \u00a32500. sterl. to 9000. Dollars and on the 9th. of May they appointed me one of their ministers for negociating treaties. It is to be observed that [they] had never had occasion to consider at all the articles of Outfit to a Minister separately, because no appointment had taken place since Octob. 1779 when the salary was first fixed: and all the Ministers then resident in Europe, having at the time of their Outfit, been allowed their expences, these necessarily included the Outfit. My first appointment having been only for a special purpose, and not to reside in Europe, consequently not obliging me to take or furnish a house, I did not, on that appointment, claim an Outfit. When I was afterwards appointed to reside at Paris, as Minister there, I applied to my predecessor, Dr. Franklin, to know how I was to keep my accounts, who told me that the US. furnished the hotel, paid clerks, couriers, postage, stationary and court fees. I applied also to Mr. Barclay, who was authorized to settle all accounts of the US. in Europe; who gave me a copy of Dr. Franklin\u2019s account, as he had settled it, to be my guide. This contained an Outfit in fact, as has been before-mentioned. I accordingly began an account of the cost of my furniture, carriage, horses, clothes &c. but finding that the details were numerous, minute, incapable from their nature of being vouched, that it was difficult to say where they should end, that a year\u2019s salary was allowed by most nations, and considerably more by some for this article, and that even this would be less than the actual amount of  the particulars of my Outfit, I thought it better to charge it at once at a year\u2019s salary, presuming that Congress would rather at length fix a sum for that article also, as they had done for the salary. I wrote a private letter to Mr. Jay, then Secretary of foreign affairs, on this subject who laid it before Congress, and he informed me in his letter of Nov. 25. 1788. that \u2018they had referred it to a committee. Mr. Williamson of N. Carolina was chairman of it. They have not reported; but he says it was the opinion of the Committee that on consideration of these expences, you should be allowed, for two or three years, the salary of your predecessor, which exceeded yours.\u2019 Some members of that who are also of the present Congress, can vouch the same fact. For want of a representation of 9. states, then necessary in money matters, they never could report during the old government, and so it laid over for the new. The difference between the salary of my predecessor and myself was nearly \u00a3600. sterl. a year, which for three years would have nearly made up a year\u2019s salary, which I had proposed for the Outfit. July 1. 1790 the Congress of the present government passed a general law, fixing the Outfit at a year\u2019s salary. This was not retrospective, and is only mentioned as shewing their sense that a year\u2019s salary was a reasonable allowance for Outfit.\n                    From hence it appears that previous to the law lastmentioned, there was no complete and legal ascertainment of the principles on which the accounts of Ministers were to be settled. They were governed in some articles by fixed allowance; in others by the Usage of other nations, by precedents, or practice of their predecessors, and by the reason of the thing. Thus, in the present account, the article of salary till the 1st. of Aug. 1784. stands on the ground of the resolution of Congress of Oct. 4. 1779. and after that, on that of May 7. 1784. That of hotel-rent, couriers, postage, stationary, court fees, on usage and precedent, the hotel particularly being considered by practice as the permanent Office of the nation. That of Outfit, on usage and precedent, and on the proceedings of the committee of the old, [and] Congress of the new government.  The rent of the hotel was paid by Mr. Grand for the most part when he had money, and at other times by myself and charged to the US.\n                    4. The Period when my commission of Min. Pleny. terminated.\n                    I left Europe in Oct. 1789. on a leave of absence previously obtained from the government, for 6. months (as well as I recollect the term.) I left it with a strong desire to return and see the end of a revolution which I then thought near it\u2019s close. On my way from Norfolk to my own  house I recieved Dec. 11. the President\u2019s letters of Oct. 13. and Nov. 30. under the same inclosure, with a commission to be Secretary of state. In the letter of Oct. 13. are these expressions, which shewed he did not mean this as a recall, but to leave to my own choice to take the new, or continue under the old commission. \u2018Without being able to consult your inclination, or to derive any knowlege of your intentions from your letters either to myself or to any other of your friends, I was determined &c. to nominate you for the department of state &c. but, grateful as your acceptance of this commission would be to me, I am at the same time desirous to accomodate to your wishes, and I have therefore forborne to nominate your successor at the court of Versailles, until I should be informed of your determination.\u2019 In the letter of Nov. 30. he says \u2018I forward your commission to Virginia with a request to be made acquainted with your sentiments as soon as you shall find it convenient to communicate them to me.\u2019 I needed no time to make up my mind against a change of office; for that was bent on returning to my former station, with which I was acquainted, in preference to a new one of which I had fears and forebodings which gave me strong repugnance to it. I expressed, in my answer of Dec. 15. to the President my preference to return, only qualifying it with those expressions, which respect required of conforming to his will, and especially if his views were to any alteration in my former office. On the 6th. of Feb. I recieved another letter from the President dated Jan. 21. 1790. wherein he says \u2018I had the pleasure to recieve duly your letter of Dec. 15. but I thought proper to delay answering &c. until &c. [and] I now &c. of mentioning &c. the expediency of your deciding at as early a period as may consist with your convenience on the important subject before you. I feel such delicacy and embarrasment in consequence of the footing on which you have placed your final determination as to make it necessary for me to recur to the first ground on which I rested the matter.\u2014In confidence therefore I will tell you plainly that I wish not to oppose your inclinations, and that after you shall have been made a little further acquainted with the light in which I view the office of Secretary of state, it must be at your option to determine relative to your acceptance of it, or continuance in your office abroad.\u2014But in order that you may be the better prepared to make your ultimate decision on good grounds, I think it necessary to add one fact &c.\u2014If you should finally determine to take upon yourself the duties of the department of state, it would be highly requisite for you to come on immediately &c. or in all events it would be essential that I should be informed of your conclusive option, so that if you return to France, another person may be nominated to fill the department of state.\u2019 Tho\u2019 my repugnance to the new office was still as great as ever, and really oppressive to my mind, I wrote to the President Feb. 14. that I would come on the [ensuing] week and undertake it, but I still retained the hope that when I should get to New York, I might find some opening to avoid it without giving dissatisfaction. In the course of my progress however to that place I found in the different societies I fell in with on the way that the public expected me to act in the new office, and that, should I decline it, I might incur reproaches which would give me more pain than the change of office. On my arrival at N. York therefore the 21st. of Mar. I declined making any effort to change the arrangement, but qualified into the new office; and then, for the first time, wrote to Paris to put down my houshold, and wind up and [send home] my affairs. This was the first moment that I ceased entirely to hope I might go on to France, and the qualification was the first act which in my conception, determined my former commission. Assuredly if I had then pressed my return to France, it would have been yielded to, nor would a new commission have been thought necessary. The President\u2019s letter recieved Feb. [6]. clearly considered me as free to continue in my former commission, and consequently that it was not determined and the only doubt which could be raised would be whether this effect was produced by my letter of Feb. 14. or by my arrival and qualification at N. York. The latter is my own opinion: but this is a small object to the public and not a great one to any individual.\u2014These transactions being unknown to the Auditor, I have thought it necessary to state them to him specially, as it was on my own knolege of them that I had fixed the Period of my salary.\n                    There is more than common reason in the case against abridging the period of my commission. Congress allow three months from notice of the recall for the return home, an allowance which will never be found to cover the expence of return. This short allowance too goes on the supposition that the person would be on the spot, so that his domestic establishment might be put down instantly. In confidence that I was to return to Paris, I had left my servants, horses, and other current expences going on nearly as if I had been there, under the care of Mr. Short. He never recieved my letters notifying that all this was to be put down till June 12. The 3. months then which I should have had for getting every thing home, had I been on the spot, were within 10. days of expiring before the business began, and it was to be done in my absence to prodigious disadvantage and loss. This circumstance brought my account into an arrear with the public which did not exist before, nor would otherwise have existed. To make good this, I was obliged to  borrow from Messrs. Van Staphorsts & Hubbard the two sums for which I take credit in my account, to wit\n                    which sums I have still to pay them, and having no resource but my farms, which [were] not profitably managed in my absence, and are ignorantly so now, I begin to percieve will be to be paid by the sale of some part of them. I do not mention this to obtain from the public any thing but what is right: but to justify my claiming, in my accounts, up to the strict line of right. I never desired any compensation for my time. I meant however to have kept my expences within the public allowance; and had done so, till this accidental protraction and increase of expence left me loser, on the whole mission, the sum beforementioned, and every defalcation now is to cut off exactly so much of a farm. I hope that my aversion for this will not be mistaken for avarice.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0009", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Richard Harrison, 9 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Harrison, Richard\n                    The letters and papers addressed to you by this post [are] public, and for the files of your office. But I cannot refrain indulging myself in a private line also. If you shall be satisfied by these papers that all the heads of difficulty are cleared away, I shall hope the matter will be finally settled by yourself. To me they appear to leave no difficulty, and the less, because mine being the last of those accounts, the precedent can have no consequence on any thing subsequent. If however you are still unsatisfied as to any one of these heads (and [from] the expressions of your letter I conjecture that if any difficulty [remains] it will be as to that of Outfit) then I would beseech you to decide on all those on which you are satisfied, that if I am obliged to [carry] the matter before Congress, it may be on a simple abstract question. No man upon earth has such mortal aversion, as myself to be the subject of discussion, and therefore I wish to narrow the ground, if ground must still remain. Nothing but the accident of the change in the form of our government prevented my having the formal approbation of the charge of Outfit from the old Congress and a thing approved by the antient legislature, and [approved] by the present one cannot be doubtful in it\u2019s issue, tho it is [disagreeable in the process] to it. I am with very great esteem [Dr. Sir Your friend] & servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0010", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Madison, 13 March 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Since my last by the last weekly mail, I have seen Mr. Rittenhouse on the subject of the Kitchen Stoves. He says that at Lancaster where they were invented and are best known, two only remain in use. They certainly save fuel; but are so much complicated in their operation, as to require particular care, and are liable to the objection of keeping the Kitchen excessively hot. Mrs. Rittenhouse intimated that, as several modes of Cookery, roasting boiling &c., were carried on at the same time, it often happened that one of the modes did not keep pace with the other. Mr. R. could not learn the price. He supposed, from the quantity of Iron, that it must be considerable.\n                    We are at length embarked in the discussion of the Treaty, which was drawn in rather abruptly by a proposition calling on the President for papers. The point in debate is the Constitutional right of Congs. in relation to Treaties. There seems at present strong reason to conclude, that a majority will be firm in the doctrine that the House has a Constitutional right to refuse to pass laws for executing a Treaty, and that the Treaty power is limited by the enumerated powers. Whether the right ought in the present case to be exerted will be a distinct question on the merits of the Treaty, which have not yet come into discussion. I understand the Treaty Party expect success on this question, but despair on every other.\n                    Nothing very late from Europe. The British armament is arriving in the W. Indies, which looks like a postponement of peace. It will augment  the call on this Country for provisions, and of course the price. Flour is about 15. dolrs. here at present.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0011", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Thomas Mann Randolph, 13 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Randolph, Thomas Mann\n                    All are well here: Jefferson particularly so. Almost immediately after the receipt of your order to pay Mr. Divers 120. D. and before I could give him notice, he went to Richmond, and returned only 3 days ago. I saw him yesterday and told him how long I had had your order to pay him that sum, which had been in constant readiness for him, and was still so. He appeared perfectly satisfied. I gave him his choice to recieve it here or in Richmond. He preferred the former and will call for it this week. Mr. Garland sheriff, has applied to me for your taxes, which he says it would be convenient for him to recieve in a few days. I told him I would pay them. Two of the persons from whom I have principally purchased corn (Mrs. Gilmer and F. Walker) prefer my paying the money to you for them. The sums are not yet exactly known; the former probably about \u00a340. the latter perhaps double that. The money will be in readiness for you as soon as it\u2019s amount is known. I inclose you a note of Mr. Rives\u2019s on Brown, and a memorandum. We have never had an opportunity of sending your succory seed. I must trouble you again about Cobbs\u2019s affair. Our court did no business at the last session, so it lies over. This gave us another opportunity of trying to get the depositions of the Inspectors of Shockoe. We have given Cobbs notice to attend the last day of this month at Shockoe warehouse, at 12. oclock to take the deposition. I must trouble you to act for me. The commission and letter before forwarded to you on this subject will suffice.\u2014A word on the subject of our breed of Shepherd\u2019s dogs. Every individual of old Grizzle\u2019s breed has proved so mischievous that we have been obliged to kill the whole except Damon who is kept chained; and we remark that not a single instance has been known of any such disposition in Bergere\u2019s family. On the contrary they are all remarkeably quiet, faithful, and abounding in the good qualities of the old bitch. This observation renders her breed extremely precious, and it now consists in two bitches and a dog here, and the dog (Sancho) which you have. We are collecting them at the top of the mountain, and I mention all this to you lest you should part with Sancho, in which case if any thing happens to Norman,  the breed will be lost. It would therefore be desireable that your dog should return with you and remain with us till the breed is multiplied.\u2014W. Nicholas is tolerably sure of being re-elected. Joseph Monroe and Colo. Jouett are canvassing for the other place of delegate at the ensuing election. I intend to be sick on that day, Nicholas being out of danger. My sister Carr, who is with us, and Maria join in love to my dear Martha and yourself. We wish to hear that your health is become firm. Adieu affectionately.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0012", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Thomas Pinckney, 16 March 1796\nFrom: Pinckney, Thomas\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Your favor of the 8th. of September last reached London when I was on my return from Spain to England by which means I did not receive it till after my arrival in this Country: the letters inclosed for Mrs. Church and Mr. Mazzei were forwarded by Mr. Deas previous to my return.\n                    You will receive herewith a letter from the hereditary Prince of Parma who married, during my residence in Spain, a daughter of his Catholic Majesty; he appears to be an amiable, liberal minded young Gentleman, and well informed for his time of life and station; being heir to a sovereign Prince and only 22 years of age. I inclose our correspondence on this subject and have to request that if the kind of intercourse wished for should not suit your convenience that you would be so obliging as to point out such an arrangement as may have the effect desired.\n                    In the acrimonious extremes to which party matters appear to have been carried in our country your retreat is peculiarly enviable, and I hope shortly to be permitted to enjoy similar pursuits: I wished to have paid more attention to the subject of agriculture during my stay in Spain, but no one can better estimate than yourself how much my time must have been occupied during my short residence in that Country, as  no one is better apprized of the obstacles to be removed before the treaty such as it is could be agreed upon: in my return however I took a circuitous route with a view to attend as much as I could in so rapid a journey to such objects of their culture and commerce on the eastern coast of Spain as I conceived might be beneficial to our country: and one object of their rural oconomy which I saw appears to me applicable to a topic you have mentioned in your letter namely that of treading out Grain\u2014an operation universally practiced in the parts of Spain through which I travelled, the flail being there unknown; their autumnal weather is so serene and dry that they pursue this method in the most perfect security, an advantage I did not before know that you partook of in Virginia; but to the operation of the horses feet the Spaniards add a kind of sledge which is drawn by the animals employed in the operation; this sledge by them called a trillo is made of plank two inches and an half thick. It is about 5 feet long and nearly three wide and a little turned up in the fore part to facilitate its passing over the grain; in the under side are inserted sharp flints each about one inch and half in length, these are placed in rows parallel to the sides, the rows an inch and half distant from each other and the flints the same distance apart in the rows, and projecting half an inch from the under surface of the plank. The threshing floors are paved and the trillo is drawn lengthwise, the driver standing thereon, and this instrument performs the double operation of beating out the grain and at the same time cutting the straw small for feeding, for in Spain no hay is given to horses or mules, chopt straw and barley being the only provender. If it should be no object with you to have the straw chopt I should imagine another instrument I saw preferable to the trillo for your use, which is a wooden roller, in which are inserted many wooden pins or feet the exterior surface of the ends of which are about four by three inches and which being drawn over the grain in their revolutions stamp it out.\n                    Another object of my attention which I think applicable to your husbandry consists of the receptacles in which in the southern parts of this country they have long been in the habit of preserving their grain\u2014the whole art of which appears to be in keeping it dry and cool; these receptacles are made under ground of a conical shape, resembling a pear with the stalk end upwards. They are constructed of stone; the aperture about three feet wide the greatest diameter from 16 to 20 feet, and a little more in depth: two layers of dry wooden rails or rafters are laid transversely in the bottom, as in Ice-houses, in which is placed matting or well dried straw and the grain thereon, the sides also are lined with the same materials, and when filled the aperture to the cave the outward surface of which is placed about three feet below the level of the ground  is well closed and covered with earth or other compact materials. I am assured that not only sound grain is perfectly preserved in these reservoirs but even that grain in a heated state has been recovered by being lodged therein: I need not add that a dry position and soil are always chosen for the site of these granaries. One article in the culture of rice to which I paid attention in the kingdom of Valencia appears applicable to the subject just mentioned as adapted to your culture of Wheat in Virginia; which is, that for the purpose of treading out the Rice they cut off the Ears alone, leaving no stalk or straw; might it not therefore answer for You to use the same method? Reaping by hand only the ears of your Wheat and leaving your straw to be mown down; the grain might then be more easily disengaged from the ear than when unincumbered by the straw: or the entire ears might be lodged in the subterraneous granaries without danger of the heat being sufficient to give birth to the weevil; and the wheat might be threshed and ground as it might suit your convenience.\n                    You find my dear Sir, that I rely upon your being very seriously occupied in the agricultural line, or I should not have ventured to tresspass so much on your time with my speculations on that subject: and I have yet a few more thoughts on similar topics which I wish to submit to your Judgement, but which I am obliged to reserve for a future occasion, confining myself for the present to the expression of the sincere respect and affectionate Esteem with which I am Your obliged & obedient Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0013", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from William Cabell, 17 March 1796\nFrom: Cabell, William\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Doctor Robert H. Rose son of Colo. Hugh Rose deceased and Mr. John Rose son of Mr. Charles Rose having signified to me their intention of going to the S. Western territory, with a view of residing there, and also a wish of obtaining from you letters of introduction to gentlemen of your acquaintance in that quarter, I take the liberty of writing you a few lines on the occasion. I have been long acquainted with both of the young gentlemen. They have made so considerable a progress in science, are of such amiable characters, and possess in so eminent a degree the powers of being useful and agreeable members of society, that I venture to say they will be found every way deserving of all the respect and consideration which may be shewn them by the judicious of any community. Any services which you may render them by way of letters, will be considered as an obligation conferred on Sir, Yr. Obt. Servant.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0015", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Richard Harrison, 17 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Harrison, Richard\n                    After forwarding to you my dispatches by the last post, I undertook for the use of Mr. Grand also, to make a proper statement of his debets against the US. against Virginia, and myself; ascribing every article of his charges to it\u2019s real party. As his whole accounts, while under my inspection are thus brought within the compass of a single sheet of paper, I thought it would be well to send you a copy of it, because, being unencumbered with the explanatory notes, it will be a more convenient manual for you for common use. The part relating to the US. contains nothing but what you will find in the former papers; but all is here brought together.\n                    I thought it best too that you should possess his accounts with this state, and with myself; because it may be advantageous for you to know not only what he has a right to charge to the US. but also what he has not a right to charge to them, but should look for to the party in whose account I place it. I am satisfied at the same time that that house will have no hesitation to conform to this distribution of their accompts, and to settle with you in the form now inclosed, because it matters nothing to them if they find all their money in accounts with somebody.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0016", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to William Blount, 19 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Blount, William\n                    Dr. Robert H. Rose and Mr. John Rose will have the honor of delivering you this letter. As they go to your government with a view of fixing themselves there, they have naturally a wish to enjoy there whatever advantages may justly result from a knoledge of their characters. They are of a county next adjoining to me, of an antient and respectable family of this state, are sons of two brothers with whom I have from my infancy been in habits of the most intimate friendship and affection, and as far as their age has given developement to their characters they stand themselves under the best personal reputations. With these titles I take the liberty of presenting them to your Excellency believing it as desireable to you to know the worthy as to the worthy to be known by you. The patronage of your office you will naturally extend to them; but I take the liberty of solliciting also for them the benefits of your advice and countenance which their ignorance of the country and circumstances in which they will be placed and your knolege of them, may render of high value to these gentlemen. To the gratification of fostering virtuous youth in virtuous enterprize is added that of the occasion it furnishes me of assuring you of the sentiments of high respect and esteem with which I have the honor to be your Excellency\u2019s most obedt. & most humble servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0017", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to William Branch Giles, 19 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Giles, William Branch\n                    I know not when I have recieved greater satisfaction than on reading the speech of Dr. Lieb in the Pennsylvania Assembly. He calls himself a new member. I congratulate honest republicanism on such an acquisition, and promise myself much from a career which begins on such elevated ground.\u2014We are in suspense here to see the fate and effect of Mr. Pitt\u2019s bill against democratic societies. I wish extremely to get at the true history of this effort to suppress freedom of meeting, speaking, writing and printing. Your acquaintance with Sedgewick will enable you to do it. Pray get from him the outlines of the bill he intended to have brought in for this purpose. This will enable us to judge whether we have the merit of the invention: whether we were really before hand with the British minister on this subject: whether he took his hint from our proposition, or whether the concurrence in sentiment is merely the result of the general truth that great men will think alike, and act alike tho\u2019 without intercommunication. I am serious in desiring extremely the outlines of the bill intended for us.\u2014From the debates on the subject of our seamen, I am afraid as much harm as good will be done by our endeavors to arm our seamen against impressment. It is proposed I observe to register them and give them certificates of citizenship to protect them from foreign impressment. But these certificates will be lost in a thousand ways. A sailor will neglect to take his certificate. He is wet twenty times in a voyage. If he goes ashore without it, he is impressed, if with it, he gets drunk, it is lost, stolen from him, taken from him, and then the want of it gives an authority to impress which does not exist now. After ten years\u2019 attention to the subject, I have never been able to devise any thing effectual but that the circumstance of an American bottom being made ipso facto a protection for a number of seamen proportioned to her tonnage: to oblige American captains when called on by foreign officers to parade the men on deck, which would shew whether they exceeded their quota, and allow the foreign officers to send 2. or 3. persons aboard and hunt for any suspected to be concealed. This Mr. Pinckney was instructed to insist upon with Great Britain, to accept of nothing short of it, and most especially not to agree that a certificate of citizenship should be requirable from our seamen: because it would be made a ground for the authorised impressment of them. I am still satisfied that such a protection will place them in a worse situation than they are at present. It is true the British minister has not shown a disposition to accede to my proposition: but it was not totally  rejected: and if he still refuses, lay a duty of 1.d. sterl. a yard on British oznabrigs to make a fund for paying the expences of the agents you are obliged to employ to seek out our suffering seamen.\u2014I congratulate you on the arrival of Mr. Ames and the British treaty. The newspapers had said they would arrive together.\u2014We have had a fine winter. Wheat looks well. Corn is scarce and dear. 22/ here. 30/ in Amherst. Our blossoms are just opening. I have begun the demolitions of my house, and hope to get through it\u2019s re-edification in the course of the summer. But do not let this discorage you from calling on us if you wander this way in the summer. We shall have the eye of a brick-kiln to poke you into, or an Octagon to air you in. Adieu affectionately.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0018", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Thomas Mann Randolph, 19 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Randolph, Thomas Mann\n                    Your\u2019s of the 16th. inst. from Richmd. came to hand last night. I believe it would be better to do without herrings till the new season, even if we could get them, considering the price. I have recieved no advice of any port wine having been sent to me by any body, and I never ordered any. If that delivered Mr. Brown be really addressed to me, you are welcome to it, and in every case to do with respect to it whatever I might rightfully do. If it has come to a mistaken address, I presume you will serve the owner by using it, and paying for it if you should be ever called on. But is it certainly Port? Perhaps it may be Sherry or Termo from my correspondents at Cadiz or Lisbon.\u2014Wheat on the 6th. inst. was 2 2/3 Doll. at Philadelphia. Yours I believe is not yet delivered to Fleming; nor is mine. Robertson tells me all are well at Edgehill. So are  all here. We begin to look forward to the hour when we are to see you again. We have had remarkeable winds for 2. or 3. days past. This morning the mercury was at 26\u00b0. Our peach blossoms are just opening. Mr. Hornsby and family are arrived in our neighborhood. He and N. Lewis junr. set out in about a fortnight for Kentucky. Corn at 22/ here and 30/ in Amherst. Our love and kisses to our dear Martha and Anne. Adieu affectionately.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0020", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from William Branch Giles, 20 March 1796\nFrom: Giles, William Branch\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    This letter will probably be presented to you by the Duke De Laincourt, who proposes by a circuitous rout to visit Monticello.\n                    In announceing this Gentleman to you, I am perfectly satisfyed that your previous acquaintance with his history, his reputation and his connection, will render any other mention of him, than merely his name, wholly unnecessary. Be pleased to accept my most affectionate Respects &C.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0022", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to John Pendleton, 20 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Pendleton, John\n                    Messrs. Grand & Co. having lately furnished certain papers which were necessary for the settlement of their account with the US. I undertook at the desire of the Auditor of the US. to examine so much of those accounts as arose under my inspection, to see that they stood right. My attention being thus recalled to the subject I had occasion to turn to the account I settled with you on my return to Virginia, and was never more astonished than to see that, according to this paper and to truth as far as I can see, a balance still remains in my hands of 1934\u20b6\u20143\u20146. unless I  should have otherwise accounted for it and as completely forgotten that as I had done the balance itself. But of this I have no vestige either in my memory or on paper, and therefore shall hold myself your debtor that sum, unless you know to the contrary what I do not. I account to myself for the lapse of memory thus. When I settled with you on my passage from Norfolk through Richmond, not meaning to undertake the office of Secretary of state, to which I had been nominated before my arrival, I counted certainly on returning to France, and of there paying away the residue of the money in my hands for the purposes of it\u2019s original destination, which were not then completed. When I went on to the Northward however, I was persuaded to undertake the new office, and entering instantly on it\u2019s duties, these gave me so complete occupation that my mind never recurred to the subject of my settlement with you. It remains now then to set it to rights.  I now inclose to the Governor the account of Grand & Co. against our state whereon a balance appears\n                            due to them from the state of\n                            I imagine it will simplify your accounts\n                            balance remaining in my hands:\n                            so that a simple remittance of\n                    will liquidate the whole transaction, both as to them and myself. If I am right in supposing myself your debtor, and this mode of settlement be approved I will, on your saying so, answer to Mr. Grand the amount in my hands, which will be the more convenient to me as a part of the sum is due to me from Grand & Co. being the balance of my private account with them.\n                    I inclose you Houdon\u2019s account of his expences to and from America, which were under the eye and approbation of Doctr. Franklin till he left America, the Doctor furnishing him the money and drawing on me for reimbursement. I have the honor to be with great esteem Sir Your most obedt. and most humble servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0023", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to James Madison, 21 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Madison, James\n                    Th: Jefferson presents his friendly respects to Mr. Madison and asks the favor of him to procure a safe conveyance for the inclosed letter to Colo. Monroe, which is of great importance public and private, as covering papers of consequence.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0024", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Madison, 21 March 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    At the desire of Mr. de Liancourt, I put into his hands this introduction to your remembrance of him as an acquaintance at Paris. He meditates a visit to the Southern States, and expects to have the pleasure of taking Monticello in his route, either in going or returning. I need add nothing to your knowledge of his respectability and virtues, I shall only say that the impression I have of both, induces me to concur cheerfully in the use he now makes of me. With the highest esteem & regard I am Dear Sir Yrs. affecly.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0025", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to James Monroe, 21 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Monroe, James\n                    I wrote you on the 2d. inst. and now take the liberty of troubling you in order to have the inclosed letter to Mr. Gautier safely handed to him. I will thank you for information that it gets safely to hand, as it is of considerable importance to him, to the US. to the state of Virginia, and to myself, by conveying to him the final arrangement of the accounts of Grand & Co. with all those parties.\n                    Mr. Jones happened fortunately to come into our neighborhood a few days after the date of my last, and ordered the proper ground to be  inclosed and reserved for trees for you. My gardener is this day gone to plant such as we had, which will serve for a beginning. We shall engraft more for you this spring and plant them the next.\n                    The British treaty has been formally at length laid before Congress. All America is atip-toe to see what the H. of Representatives will decide on it. We concieve the constitutional doctrine to be that tho\u2019 the P. and Senate have the general power of making treaties yet wherever they include in a treaty matters confided by the constitution to the three branches of legislature, an act of legislation will be requisite to confirm these articles, and that the H. of Repr. as one branch of the legislature are perfectly free to pass the act or to refuse it, governing themselves by their own judgment whether it is for the good of their constituents to let the treaty go into effect or not. On the precedent now to be set will depend the future construction of our constitution, and whether the powers of legislature shall be transferred from the P. Senate and H. of R. to the P. Senate and Piamingo or any other Indian, Algerine or other chief. It is fortunate that the first decision is to be in a case so palpably atrocious as to have been predetermined by all America.\u2014The appointment of Elsworth C.J. and Chace one of the judges is doubtless communicated to you. My friendly respects to Mrs. Monroe. Adieu affectionately", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0026", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Benjamin Hawkins, 22 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Hawkins, Benjamin\n                    I am going to put you on a wild goose chace to find out the person to whom the inclosed letter is addressed. He moved to N. Carolina in 1782. and is settled somewhere up towards the mountains and not a great way from the Virginia line. This is all which his family here can tell me of him. A son of his here claims under him 100. acres of land which are in my possession, but he has no deed for it. For peace sake I have bought the son\u2019s claim, and it is important I should get from the father a letter at least confirming the right. But I have no means of finding him out, unless you can hunt him up, in which case you will render me a real service. He is probably an obscure planter, and very old man. He carried one son with him, one went to Georgia, and three remain here.\n                    The vines you were so kind as to send me by Mr. Chiles were delivered to me alive. Every one budded after it was planted. Yet every one  died immediately after. It was certainly not for want of care. Yours is unquestionably the most valuable collection in America; and I must keep it in view, and I pray you to do the same, to have a complete assortment of them, by the first opportunity which may occur. A direct one, in the proper season, cannot be hoped. We have no connection with Petersburgh, nor have I a single acquaintance there. But at Richmond Mr. Wythe would take pleasure in recieving and saving the cuttings for me. Would it be impracticable at the proper season to convey them to him thro\u2019 the medium of the stage, and under the care of some merchant or other coming in it from your neighborhood to Richmond?\n                    I possess some valuable notes of the history of our country; particularly the debates of the old Congress on the confederation and some other subjects. I know that you took notes of what passed under your eye while in Senate and perhaps on other occasions, which I should consider as a precious deposit, and mark of great and confidential friendship from you if you would give me a copy of them. I will give you in exchange a copy of mine. If you approve of this friendly intercommunication of information, the post is a very safe channel and they might come on from week to week as you can advance in copying.  I am now engaged in taking down the upper story of my house and building it on the ground, so as to spread all my rooms on one floor. We shall this summer therefore live under the tent of heaven. The next summer however we shall be able to tent you better, and I shall hope you will think our part of the country worth a visit. If you will make it during the months of August and September, we have then a good deal of agreeable society who take refuge from the country below during the sickly season, among these our hills, the most fertile soil, healthy and temperate climate in America. The mercury was never higher than 90\u00b0. here, and we abound in figs, which marks to you the limits of our heat and cold. A propos of figs. Of three very fine kinds I brought from France, one is the most delicious I ever tasted in any country. I had only one plant last year, but this spring have set out many cuttings. I have also a grape from Italy, of a brick dust colour coming about a fortnight later than the sweetwater and lasting till frost, the most valuable I ever knew. It deserves this character for it\u2019s flavor, it\u2019s quantity, and it\u2019s hardiness. I take it to be the Chasselas of Fontainebleau. I shall with pleasure avail myself of any means of conveying both these articles to you. Send me in a letter some seed of the Dionnea mascipula. Adieu. Your\u2019s affectionately", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0027", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to John Bowyer, 25 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Bowyer, John\n                    Your favor of Feb. 22. came to hand by our last post, and I thank you for the trouble you have taken to apprize me of an interest worth attending to, as well as the offer to act for me in what is to be done. Be so good as to make whatever bargain you think right with the person proposing to make saltpetre from my cave, and I confirm it. I have been told that the powder makers on your side of the mountain will give powder for saltpetre, pound for pound. Powder would be a more convenient article for me than saltpetre, as it happens in fact that I have a great job of blowing on hand in a mill race: so that if it can be exchanged on terms you approve, and lodged at Staunton, it would suit me. Mr. Samuel Clarke merchant at Staunton, who retails nails for me, would recieve and forward it. I embrace with pleasure this occasion of renewing our antient acquaintance, and I find from my feelings generally, that the more antient, the more valued. I am with great esteem Dear Sir Your friend & servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0029", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from William Branch Giles, 26 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Giles, William Branch\n                    I have permitted your much valued favor of the 31st. of December to remain unanswered until this time, because until now, no desicive event had occurred, by which a conjecture could be formed of the probable course, which the House of Representatives would take respecting the great question of the Brittish treaty, Because Europe afforded nothing  interresting, and because I was unwilling to call your attention to the recital of trivial incidents.\n                    You will observe from the accompanying paper that the day before yesterday a question was taken upon Mr. Livingston\u2019s motion requesting the President to cause to be laid before the House of Representatives, the instructions to the late envoy extraordinaire and his correspondence with L. Granvile during the negotiation of the Brittish treaty &c. This incidental proposition gave rise to a discussion respecting the constitutional rights of the House of Representatives in checking the Treaty makeing power. The parties on both sides came forward and placed the fate of the proposition on that constitutional ground. The opposers of the resolution in their first onset, assumed a most authoratative tone, and without equivocation enthroned the treaty makeing power in a despotism complete. They declared that the treaty makeing power was undefined in its nature, unlimited in its extent, and paramount in its authority. They then proceeded to denounce those who would not yield an assent to this doctrine, as rebels and traitors against the constituted authorities. For this doctrine and this language, at this time, we are probably indebted in some degree to the mockery displayed on the President\u2019s last Birth day, which has been construed into full evidence of what is called\u2014the counter current. The partizans of despotism began to amuse themselves with a belief that the American mind had become so intoxicated with their clamors and their calumnies, that it was incapable of resisting the fetters prepared for it, and that the precious moment of fixing them on, had arrived. But this candid avowal produceing rather a repulsive, than a submissive effect, attempts were ingeniously made by them in the more matured state of the debate, to level the High ground upon which this omnipotent treaty makeing power, was at first most firmly entrenched. It is easy to see that this doctrine totally discards the utility of checks, and by means of the treaty makeing power completely Checkmates the whole constitution. It is proposed to have the debates upon this question printed in numbers by subscription; and as it is probable that you will not be able to see them in so satisfactory a shape in the any of the news papers I will take great pleasure in forwarding the numbers to you as they shall be printed. Since the vote of the house the treaty makeing party is in great trepidation for the ultimate fate of their favorite instrument, and would consent to a provision for carrying it into effect upon any conditions which the majority would prescribe, but the course of proceedure upon that question is yet unsettled. I have always been of opinion since my first arrival here, that a vote would be obtained for effectuateing the treaty; and it is certain that some of the gentlemen who voted with the majority are now inclined to carry  the treaty into effect. But I think the treaty more in Jeopardy now than I have done at any previous stage of the session for the following reasons amongst others. The majority upon the vote already passed is a very great one. The vote itself has united them in a common responsibility. Union is now necessary for their support. Their opinions are strongly against the contents of the treaty. The public mind will probably be with them upon the victory already obtained, and may afford some testimony of approbation before the discussion of the final question. European affairs will probably stand neutral. Under these circumstances, after declaring their right to examine the merits of the instrument, and upon the examination they find the treaty a bad one, they can hardly find any justification for carrying it into effect. But if its execution should not be denyed, it is certain, that in makeing provision for effectuateing it, a reservation of every essential right of the House of Representatives will be made.\n                    You must have remarked the proclamation accompanying the promulgation of the treaty. It is the more extraordinary as Congress were in session at the time and had received a promise at the opening of the session that the subject should be laid before them &c. You probably too have remarked the delay in makeing the communication. There are however some circumstances attending these transactions, of which you are not informed, and which may serve to show you some of the late improvements in the diplomatic agency. About six weeks before the communication was made, a copy of the exchanged ratifications was received from Mr. Deas charge De affairs at London, covered by a letter, which announced that when he applyed to L. Greenville for the purpose of exchangeing ratifications, he informed his Lordship, that the President did not intend by the ratification to sanction the provision order, to which his Lordship replyed, \u2018that was a distinct business,\u2019 and from the conversation Mr. Deas seems to have inferred that the provision order would be viewed as a practical construction of the treaty, and in consequence of this opinion requests instructions from the secretary of state as to the ground upon which he should place the subject in case of a renewal of the order. Upon the arrival of this copy it was expected that the subject would be laid before the House of Representatives, and clamors and distrusts began to be circulated by many of the members; but the time had not arrived when the communication was deemed expedient by the executive, or in other words the counter current was not then sufficiently strong\u2014and no favorable auspices seemed to attend this Brittish practical construction. To prevent therefore the circulation of these distrusts &c., the segacious secretary of state addressed a private letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives in his private  capacity, to be read at his lodgeings, and to enable him to satisfy gentlemen individually of the disposition of the President to comply with his promise of communication at the opening of the session; but that the P. did not deem the papers received sufficiently authentic to justify such a proceedure. The phraseology of the letter was not less remarkable than its object, for he assured Mr. Dayton that he would not affront him so much as to ask his opinion as to the authenticity of the papers; copies of which were inclosed. Notwithstanding this decisive course of proceedure upon the first arrival of these papers, a mere duplicate of the copies has since that time been deemed sufficiently authentic to authorise the same communication, and the promulgation of the treaty as the law of the land, with the proclamation injoining obedience to it. For as far as I have been informed the original ratification on the part of the British King is not yet arrived. These papers were submitted to the perusal of Mr. Madison and myself by the speaker the evening he received them and were taken from him early the next morning by the secretary of state in person.\n                    I shall endeavour to forward herewith the treaty with Spain, which is universally approved of here and is in fact an excellent critical essay upon the treaty with Brittain. Presumeing upon your desire to see the spanish treaty I have been indeavouring to obtain a copy for you for some time past, but after having received the promise of a copy from one of the senators was at length disappointed. An incident has occurred which has put the public in possession of it. Amongst the various arts emplyed by the treaty makeing party to effect their object, a new one has been devised to operate upon the Western parts of the U.S. The British and Spanish treaties are united and the people are told that the execution of the one, is essentially dependent on the execution of the other, to this suggestion is added the importance of the surrender of the posts to the Western country. This artifice has so far succeeded as to cause a number of petitions to come forward from the western parts of Pensyvania praying the concurrence of the House of Representatives to pass all necessary laws to carry both of the treaties into effect. To effect this it became necessary to give the spanish treaty publicity, and with this view Mr. Ross is said to have transmitted a copy to Pittsburg which has been published in the paper of that place, and from thence is published in one of the daily papers here. So far however are these two treaties from harmoniseing, that it is suggested that both the governments of France and Spain have declared that they view the Missisippee article as militant with the similar article in the British treaty, and it is further said that the spanish minister has received instructions to make an intimation to that effect to our government. One thing is certain that in  consequence of the article in the British treaty, the U.S. have been compelled to receive the navigation of the Missicippe as a concession from Spain, when the Spanish minister was willing to have admitted it as a right. The spanish negotiation is said to have been very ably managed and proves that the British exchequer had not monopolised all the talents of the U.S. The present session of Congress seems to be without end. Our finances are now found to be extremely deranged\u2014and all the important business of the session is now before us. I never was so anxious to return to Virginia; and that anxiety must plead my excuse for indulgeing myself in troubling you with so long a letter upon politicks. I believe I shall elope as soon as the treaty question is settled, in which event I propose to pay a visit to Monticello.\n                    The Duke Liancourt proposes to make you a visit in five or six weeks, he is now on his way by water to Charleston and proposes to return by land. I have taken the liberty to give him a letter of annunciation. Be pleased to accept my most affectionate regards and present my best respects to the Ladies of your Family &c.\n                        This letter has been so rapidly written that I have not stopped to mend my pen.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0030", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to John Barnes, 27 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Barnes, John\n                    Since mine of Feb. 28. I have recieved your favors of Feb. 27. and Mar. 5. and 12. In consequence I now draw on you for 400. Doll. at 10. days sight in favor of Messrs. Charles Johnston & Co. These gentlemen having set up business in the brokerage line of every kind, undertaking among other things to recieve and forward goods for all persons, I shall make them in future the center of my affairs in Richmond. I will pray you therefore to address to them in future whatever comes to me from you; as I have long and with regret been troublesome to Colo. Gamble, who was extremely attentive and punctual and would take nothing for it. The hhd. of molasses is come safe to hand. I formerly advised you that if the boots from Starr had been sent, they had miscarried. I fear this is the fate also of the tea and the gongs, of which I hear nothing, and therefore recommend them to your enquiries. I am with great esteem Dr. Sir", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0031", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to James Brown, 27 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Brown, James\n                    I have a workman of the name of David Watson, who has lived with me some time, and whose wife, Margaret Watson, is remaining in Scotland. He is extremely anxious to get her over as she is to come, and I am to indulge both. But I have no correspondent in that country, and on advising with Mr. Reeves, he encourages me to do, what I was before strongly disposed to, to ask your aid in bringing her over. She will require 5. guineas to be advanced to her there, and somebody to be responsible for the paiment of her passage at the port of delivery, which should be Richmond. The latter shall give no inconvenience, for I will lodge the money in Richmond in time to answer the call, and without fail, and will repay the former sum the moment it is known she [is fo]und and accepts the invitation to come. Will you then, Sir, be so [good as?] to undertake to help us in this business? That is to say, [deliver?]  the inclosed letter to Mr. Rumley for Margaret Watson [have 5. gui]neas advanced to her there, if she agrees to come, and only say that you will pay her passage on her arrival in Richmond, which I will take care to keep off your hands. Presuming on your assistance in this, I inclose you the letter, desiring the Christian name to be attended to and not confounded with another of the same surname. Your favor herein will much oblige Dear Sir Your friend & servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0032", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to James Madison, 27 March 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Madison, James\n                    Yours of the 13th. is recieved. I am enchanted with Mr. Gallatin\u2019s speech in Bache\u2019s paper of Mar. 14. It is worthy of being printed at the end of the Federalist, as the only rational commentary on the part of the constitution to which it relates. Not that there may not be objections, and difficult ones, to it, and which I shall be glad to see his answers to: but if they are never answered, they are more easily to be gulped down than those which lie to the doctrines of his opponents, which do in fact annihilate the whole of the powers given by the constitution to the legislature. According to the rule established by usage and common sense of construing one part of the instrument by another, the objects on which the P. and S. may exclusively act by treaty are much reduced, but the field on which they may act, with the sanction of the legislature, is large enough: and I see no harm in rendering their sanction necessary, and not much harm in annihilating the whole treaty making power, except as to making peace. If you decide in favor of your right to refuse cooperation in any case of treaty, I should wonder on what occasion it is to be used, if not on one where the rights, the interest, the honor and faith of our nation are so grossly sacrificed, where a faction has entered into conspiracy with the enemies of their country to chain down the legislature at the feet of both; where the whole mass of your constituents have condemned this work in the most unequivocal manner, and are looking to you as their last hope to save them from the effects of the avarice and corruption of the first agent, the revolutionary machinations of others, and the incomprehensible acquiescensce of the only honest man who has assented to it. I wish that his honesty and his political errors may not furnish a second occasion to exclaim \u2018curse on his virtues, they\u2019ve undone his country.\u2019\u2014Cold weather. Mercury 26. in the morning. Corn  fallen at Richmond to 20/\u2014stationary here. Nicholas sure of his election. R. Jouett and Jo. Monroe in competition for the other vote of the county. Affections to Mrs. M. and yourself. Adieu.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0033", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Thomas Mann Randolph, 27 March [1796]\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Randolph, Thomas Mann\n                    Your favor of the 20th. is received. It is not in my power to forward the land warrants for my certificates, as Clarke did not return them to me. I question if the surveyor returned them to him. I shall write to him by the next post, but you will be here before he can answer. He writes me that he put 300. \u2114 tobacco of mine into a hhd. of yours. This may enter into our general account if you please at whatever price you sell at. Reeves has made me an offer which I believe I shall accept for my tobacco. I have prepared a writing conformably to it, which I shall propose to him for signature. The article respecting damage has not yet been mentioned to him. The rest is agreeable to what past. I inclose you a copy for your information should you not be able to do better with yours. You are perfectly free to settle with F. Walker in any way most convenient. Mrs. Gilmer\u2019s order will constitute a considerable balance to be paid by me to you, exclusive of F.W\u2019s. I am preparing to pay both sums, and can do it at short warning. Mrs. Gilmer\u2019s sum will be about \u00a335. to \u00a340. F.W. has not yet said what quantity of corn he can furnish me. But settle with him in that way most convenient to yourself, as it is perfectly equal to me which I make paiment to.\u2014We have had some days of very cold weather. The last three mornings the thermometer has been 26. 26. and 29. Our peach blossoms are just opening and I fear are in danger.\u2014I wish E.R. may be right as to your injunction. I do not readily see on what it can be regularly grounded, and have not so much  confidence in his judgment as to be satisfied on the point. We are all well and hoping to see you soon. My love to my dear Martha. Adieu affectionately.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0034", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Volney, 28 March 1796\nFrom: Volney, Constantin Fran\u00e7ois Chasseboeuf, Comte de\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n fifth Street South, No. 69 opposite african church\n                    Le tems que je M\u2019\u00e9tais propos\u00e9 de passer en cette Ville tire d\u00e8sormais \u00e0 Sa fin: je N\u2019attends plus pour me mettre en route, que des Nouvelles de France que je ne pr\u00e9vois pas devoir changer mon plan, quoiqu\u2019il paraisse qu\u2019elles ayent chang\u00e9 L \u00e0 Ma position. Mon dessein est de passer L\u2019\u00e9t\u00e9 dans la partie Montueuse, c\u2019est \u00e0 dire Salubre des etats du midi: il est bien \u00e9vident qu\u2019une des premieres et des plus int\u00e9ressantes Visites que j\u2019aurai L\u2019avantage de faire Sera \u00e0 Monticello. Je desirerais de Savoir dabord si en quittant philadelphie je ne pourrais pas Vous y \u00eatre utile pour quelques commissions, et en second lieu si Vous comptez faire quelqu\u2019absence qui M\u2019emp\u00each\u00e2t de Vous rencontrer chez Vous dans le cours de Mai. Je puis recevoir ici jusques Vers la Mi-avril tous les ordres que Vous pourriez M\u2019y donner, et je Me ferais un Veritable plaisir de les remplir. Pass\u00e9 cette epoque je commencerai Mon Voyage Vers Vos cantons sans faire de Station autre part qu\u2019a Washington-City pr\u00e8s Le docteur Thornton et Mr. Law. On Nous annonce un accomodement g\u00e9n\u00e9ral en Europe: Malgr\u00e9 les doutes et les contradictions que L\u2019on y oppose, j\u2019y croirai jusqu\u2019a L\u2019ouverture positive de la campagne; puisqu\u2019il me para\u00eet constant que Le Systeme de Notre gouvernement est different de ce qu\u2019il etait il y a un an. Au reste toute hypoth\u00e8se est un Si vaste champ de conjectures et de reflexions qu\u2019il N\u2019y a que de longues Veill\u00e9es qui puissent y suffire. C\u2019est avec l\u2019espoir d\u2019en passer de bien instructives et de bien agr\u00e9ables pour Moi aupr\u00e8s de Vous que j\u2019ai L\u2019honneur d\u2019\u00eatre Monsieur Votre tr\u00e8s humble et tr\u00e8s Obeissant serviteur", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "03-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0035", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from William Branch Giles, 31 March 1796\nFrom: Giles, William Branch\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    I send you herewith a paper containing the Presidents refusal to comply with the call of the House of R. for the papers respecting the Brittish treaty. From your perfect acquaintance with the state of public affairs, and the views of parties, all comments upon this extraordinary production are rendered unnecessary; the language is too plain to be mistaken, and must press upon your mind a crowd of the most serious reflections.\n                    The proper course to be pursued has not yet been settled. It is probable that the President\u2019s reply will be referred to a committee to prepare something in the nature of a manifesto, which will present to the public the reasons induceing the call on the part of the House. It is also probable that the House will refuse to act upon the treaty until the papers called for shall be placed upon the table.\n                    These measures will require nerves, but we have no reasons to doubt of them from present appearances. Be pleased to make my best respects to the Ladies of your family and believe me to be your sincere friend &c.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0036", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Madison, 4 April 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    I have received yours of the 6th. Ult.; also your letters for Monroe, Mazzei and Van Staphorsts; and shall have a good conveyance for them in two or three days. I am in some doubt however whether it may not be best to detain those for Mazzei and V. untill you can add the information I am now able to furnish you from Dohrman. He has at length closed the business of Mazzei in a just and honorable manner, by allowing the N.Y. damages on the bills of 20 PerCt. and the N.Y. rate of interest of 7 PerCt. This mode of settlement after deducting the partial payments for which he has receipts, leaves a balance of 3087 dollars, which has been just paid into my hands, and will be disposed of as you shall direct. You will of course lose no time in writing to me on the subject.\n                    I have not yet heard from Bringhurst on the subject of Sharpless. He has no doubt written to you, according to his promise. I have seen Mr. Howell, who says there would be no difficulty in allowing you the credit you desire, if his son should take the place of Lowns.\n                    I was not unaware of the considerations you suggest with regard to the post roads; but do not consider my proposition as involving any dangerous consequences. It is limited to the choice of roads where that is presented, and to the opening them, in other cases, so far only as may be necessary for the transportation of the mail. This I think fairly within the object of the Constn. It had, in fact, become essential that something should be done, and something would have been attempted, on a worse principle. If the route shall be once fixt for the post road, the local authorities will probably undertake the improvement &c. of the roads; and individuals will go to work in providing the proper accomodations on them for general use.\n                    The Newspapers will inform you that the call for the Treaty papers was carried by 62 against 37. You will find the answer of the President herewith inclosed. The absolute refusal was as unexpected, as the tone and tenor of the message are improper and indelicate. If you do not at once perceive the drift of the appeal to the Genl. Convention and its journal, recollect one of Camillus\u2019s last numbers, and read the latter part of Murray\u2019s speech. There is little doubt in my mind that the message came from N.Y. where it was seen that an experiment was to be made  at the hazard of the P. to save the faction against the Reps. of the people. The effect of this reprehensible measure on the majority is not likely to correspond with the calculations of its authors. I think there will be sufficient firmness to face it with resolutions declaring the Const:l. powers of the House as to Treaties, and that in applying for papers, they are not obliged to state their reasons to the Executive. In order to preserve this firmness however, it is necessary to avoid as much as possible an overt rencontre with the Executive. The day after the message was received the bill guarantying the loan for the federal City, was carried thro\u2019 the H. of Reps. by a swimming majority.\n                    I have letters from Monroe of the 12 and 20 Jany. The Truce with Austria was demanded by the latter, and was not likely to be renewed. A continuance of the war with England was counted on. The French Govt. was in regular and vigorous operation, and gaining daily more and more of the public confidence. A forced loan was going on for 25 Mil: Sterlg., 12 Mil. of which was receivable in assignats at 100 for one; the balance in Specie and produce. It is said that the British armament for the West Indies had suffered a third Coup de Vent, after leaving the channel, a third time.\n                    According to my memory and that of others, the Journal of the Convention was by a vote deposited with the P. to be kept sacred untill called for by some competent authority. How can this be reconciled with the use he has made of it! Examine my notes if you please at the close of the business, and let me know what is said on the subject. You will perceive that the quotation is nothing to the purpose. Most of the majority would decide as the Convention did\u2014because they think there may be some Treaties as a Mere Treaty of peace that would not require the Legislative power\u2014a ratification by law also expresses a different idea from that entertained by the House of its agency. Adieu.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0038", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from John Adams, 6 April 1796\nFrom: Adams, John\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Since my Receipt of your favour of the 28 of February I have call\u2019d on the Auditor and had some Conversation with him and with The Secretary of The Treasury and with The Secretary of State upon the Subject of Accounts and they think that some Regulation may be made by Congress which will reach the Cases without any formal Memorial on our Part and indeed without mentioning Names. The Secretary of The Treasury has it under Consideration: But if they finally determine that they cannot accomplish the object without our Interposition I will join you with all my Heart in an Application to Congress.\n                    D\u2019Ivernois is industrious and clever, but he is in Pay Pension or  Employment of some kind or other under Mr. Pitt, and Some of his late Publications have a tang of the Cask from whence he draws his Wine. It is good to read all those Party Pamphlets and believe in none of them.\n                    This is indeed as you say the Age of Experiments in Government. One Tryal has been fairly made in America and France, of Nedhams perfect Commonwealth, and at length given up. Holland is trying it again and if Britain should have a Revolution She will try it too. An hundred thousand Dutchmen guillotined or beknifed will convince Holland as soon as five hundred thousand Frenchmen and Women have convinced France. How many Hecatombs must be Slaughtered to convince John Bull I cannot calculate.\n                    The Plural Executive in France is a new Attempt, borrowed from a conceit of De Mably in his posthumous Dialogue with Lord Stanhope. The Danger of Corruption and Intrigue in Elections is rather multiplied five fold, than diminished by this. And Jealousy, Emulation and Division among them are inevitable.\n                    Corruption in Elections has heretofore destroyed all Elective Governments. What Regulations or Precautions may be devised to prevent it in future, I am content with you to leave to Posterity to consider. You and I Shall go to the Kingdom of the just or at least shall be released from the Republick of the Unjust, with Hearts pure and hands clean of all Corruption in Elections: so much I firmly believe. Those who shall introduce the foul Fiend on the Stage, after We are gone must exorcise him as they can. With great Esteem and regard I am, Sir your most obedient", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0039", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from William Branch Giles, 6 April 1796\nFrom: Giles, William Branch\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    I sincerely thank you for your friendly favor of the 19th. Ultimo. I had written you two letters just previous to its receipt; in one of which I promised to forward you the several numbers of the debates upon the late call for papers by the House of R. as they should come into circulation, the first half of the first number made its appearance yesterday and according to promise I transmit it today. The President\u2019s refusal will be taken up in the House this day. Two declaratory resolutions are prepared\u2014the one admitting the right of makeing treaties to be vested in the President and Senate, but asserting the right of the House, when called upon to make provision for carrying them into effect, to judge of the expediency or inexpediency of doing so, and declareing it to be its duty to act according to the result of its own judgement, &c.\n                    The other declareing that when the House shall call for papers to which it has a constitutional right, The President has no right to judge of the purposes to which the House mean to apply them.\n                    These resolutions will probably be carried by the same majority with the former resolution with the addition of Mr. Heister of Pensylvania and Mr. Crabb of Maryland, both of whom were absent upon the former vote. Mr. Duval has resigned and of course his vote will be counting; but his opinions are known to be desicively with the majority upon every treaty question.\n                    No desicive conclusion has yet been made by the majority upon the question of finally executeing the treaty; but it will be their policy to be united upon every question, as every gentleman of that party is now sensible, that union is the only rock of salvation to republicanism. The weight of the President, twenty senators, funded gentry, British gentry, Land gentry, aristocratic gentry, military gentry and besides these a gregarious tribe of sycophants and run-mad speculators, will be found to be as much as the shoulders of the majority of the House will be able to bear; particularly when their activity and ingenuity in makeing divisions amongst the well meaning part of the community are taken into consideration.\n                    I should be very much gratifyed in seeing your remarks upon all these important political novel[ties] and your anticipations of their probable consequence. If ever I should be able to leave this place, I shall avail myself of your polite invitation to the Brick kiln; for I can assure you that the society of Monticello is so pleasing to me that I would encounter any inconvenience for its enjoyment. Be pleased to make my  best Respects to the Ladies and beleive me to be your affectionate friend &c.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0040", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Volney, 10 April 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Volney, Constantin Fran\u00e7ois Chasseboeuf, Comte de\n                    Your favor of [March] 28. came by our last post: and flatters me with the hope of seeing you here. I shall certainly be at home all the month of May, and very happy to recieve and possess you here. I shall have a great deal to learn from you of what passed in France after I left it. Initiated as I was into the mysteries of the revolution, I have much still to learn which the newspapers never knew. In return I will give you all the information relative to our agriculture &c. which you as a traveller may wish to receive. I regret that I am in a situation which will not leave us either in the quiet or comfort we might desire. My house, which had never been more than half finished, had during a war of 8. years and my subsequent absence of 10. years gone into almost total decay. I am now engaged in the repairing altering and finishing it. The noise, confusion and discomfort of the scene will require all your philosophy and patience. However your journey thro\u2019 the country from George town to this place will have prepared you in some degree for less comfortable lodgings than I shall be able to give you in your next year\u2019s visit. And for the present one you will endeavor to find comfort in a comparison of our covering with that of an Arabian tent, and in what Arabia and it\u2019s adust sands cannot shew, groves of poplars, towering mountains, rocks and rivers, blue skies balsamic air yet pure and healthy; and count for something, the affectionate welcome of Dear Sir Your friend & servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0041", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Madison, 11 April 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Since my last the inclosed was received from J.B. The sample of rod must wait for a private conveyance.\n                    Yours of the 27th. has been duly received. You already know that the call for papers was refused, and reasons assigned more extraordinary a great deal than the refusal. This measure of the Ex. produced two propositions asserting the right of the House to judge of the expediency of Treaties stipulating on legislative subjects, and declaring that it was not requisite in a call for papers to express the use to be made of them. It was expected that a long and obstinate discussion would have attended these defensive measures. Under that Idea I entered into a free, but respectful review of the fallacy of the reasons contained in the Message and the day being nearly spent the Committee rose and an adjournment succeeded. The next morning instead of a reply the question was called for and taken without a word of argument on the subject. The two resolutions were carried by 57 against 35, and six members, who not foreseeing the early call for the question had not taken their seats, soon appeared and desired to have their names added to the Majority. This was not permitted by the rules of the House; but the case is explained in the Newspapers. Today is fixed for taking up the Treaties. We shall separate the Spanish and other Treaties from the British, and proceed to make for them the necessary provisions. With respect to the latter, it seems at present probable, that it will be hung up on a recital of the vices of the Treaty itself, the want of information, and the perseverance in seizing our Ships and seamen, which ought to have the same influence on our decision whether viewed as consistent with or an infraction of the Treaty. An Embargo on Indian Corn is proposed, but has not been discussed. Nothing very material from Abroad. Bache is publishing the Treaty Debates in nos. for an 80. vol: I inclose the 1st. no. under address to Mr. Carr. Adieu", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0044", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Van Staphorst & Hubbard, 11 April 1796\nFrom: Van Staphorst & Hubbard\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Since We addressed you the 27 January last; returning you with protests for non acceptance and non payment your remittance \u00a339.17.10 1/2 on Wm. Anderson, We have your esteemed favor of 31 of same month, covering another remittance for account of Mr. P. Mazzei, in Wm. Hodgson\u2019s Bill at 60 days sight on Robinson Sanderson & Rumney of Whitehaven payable in London, with Which We will do the needful to credit of said Gentleman to whom We forwarded an advice of the receipt thereof together with your letter for him. We are ever with regard and esteem Sir! Your mo: ob: hb: Servants", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0045", "content": "Title: Agreement with Randolph Jefferson, 17 April 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas,Randolph, Jefferson\nTo: \n                    This indenture made on the 17th. day of April 1796. between [Ran]dolph Jefferson of the one part and Thomas Jefferson of the [other] part witnesseth that Whereas the said Randolph under the will of Peter Jefferson their father is siesed in feesimple in an undivided sixth part as tenant in common in a certain parcel of land in the county of Albemarle on the branches of Hardware river containing by estimation four hundred acres with a quarry of limestone thereon and bounded as follows to wit beginning at Hudson\u2019s corner white oak, running thence on his line N. 53\u00b0. W. 217. poles, crossing two branches to a pine and a white oak thence on new lines N. 23\u00b0. E. 278. poles crossing four branches [to pointers of] small pines. S. 63\u00b0. E. 230. poles crossing two branches to pointers, S. 27\u00b0. W. 278. poles to a pine and N. 63\u00b0. W. 11. poles to the first station which said lands were granted Philip Mayo by patent bearing date the 1st. day of Sep. 1749. and by the said Philip were conveyed in feesimple to the said Peter Jefferson, Joshua Fry, Arthur Hopkins, Thomas Meriwether, Daniel Scott and William Stith to be held by them and their heirs without the benefit of survivorship by deed bearing date July the 2d. 1753. and recorded in the count[y court] of Albemarle, now the said Randolph in consideration of [the sum] of five shillings and of certain articles of houshold furniture to him now paid and delivered hath given granted bargained and sold unto the said Thomas Jefferson all his right title and estate in the said lands with it\u2019s appurtenances, to have and to hold the said lands and their appurtenances in the same proportion and estate heretofore held by the said Randolph to him the said Thomas and his heirs: in witness whereof the said Randolph hath here[to] set his hand and seal on the [day] and year first above written.\n                    Signed sealed and delivered in presence of", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0047", "content": "Title: Enclosure I: Extract of Madison\u2019s Notes on Debates in the Federal Convention, 17 April 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: \n                    EnclosuresIExtract of Madison\u2019s Notes on Debates in the Federal Convention\n                    Extract verbatim from last page but one, and the last page.\n                    \u2018Mr. King suggested that the journals of the Convention should be either destroyed, or deposited in the custody of the President. He thought, if suffered to be made public, a bad use would be made of them by those who would wish to prevent the adoption of the constitution.\n                    Mr. Wilson preferred the 2d. expedient. He had at one time liked the first best: but as false suggestions may be propagated, it should not be made impossible to contradict them.\n                    A question was then put on depositing the journals and other papers of the Convention in the hands of the President, on which\n                    N.H. ay. M. ay. Ct. ay. N.J. ay. Pena. ay. Del. ay. Md. no. \u2020 Virga. ay. N.C. ay. S.C. ay Georgia ay.  \u2020This negative of Maryland was occasioned by the language of the instructions to the Deputies of that state, which required them to report to the state the proceedings of the Convention.\n                    The President having asked what the convention meant should be done with the Journals &c. whether copies were to be allowed to the members if applied for, it was resolved nem: con: \u201cthat he retain the Journal and other papers subject to the order of the Congress, if ever formed under the constitution.\u201d\n                    The members then proceeded to sign the instrument.\u2019 &c.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0049", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Thomas Pinckney, 17 April 1796\nFrom: Pinckney, Thomas\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    The Chevalier de Irujo Minister Plenipotentiary from his Catholic Majesty to the United States purposing to embark for Norfolk I avail myself of the opportunity of inclosing to you a duplicate of my letter of  the 16th. of the last Month, the original having been sent by a more circuitous route. Nothing new has occurred here since that date except the certainty of the war being to be continued between this Country and France.\n                    Mr. and Mrs. Church whom I lately saw hearing that I was about to write to you requested to be recalled to your friendly recollection and with the intreaty that I may be continued therein I remain My dear Sir Your friend & Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0051", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Tench Coxe, 22 April 1796\nFrom: Coxe, Tench\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Your two last letters for Europe, tho unacknowledged, have long since been carefully forwarded.\n                    Peace does not appear to be at hand in Europe by our accounts to the 12th. of March. Belgium seems to be the principal cause. A just and safe disposition of that country for all the parties in the war and for itself appears to be a matter of great intrinsic difficulty. If France and England are not prevented from making another Campaign for it, I have no doubt they will each hazard one.\n                    The continuance of the war, and the french dispositions against and the British anxiety for the Treaty with the U.S. bring us again into a situation of some hazard. It seems probable, that the House of Representatives will decline all legislation towards the execution of the Treaty\u2014and appearances render it probable that the Supreme Court, on a case brought up, will coincide with the Senate and the President. Mr. Ellsworth was in the Senate, and the opinions of those who rest on him are with the President. To Mr. Wilson\u2019s Estate the miscarriage of the Treaty would be considered, as I presume, to be the most injurious of all  possible Events. The Doctrines of some of the other Gentlemen upon the Treaty of Peace were unfavorable to the House, at least as important Symptoms of their opinions on the pending Question. My first impression was, prior to June, that a treaty superceded and repealed a law, but it appears to me more correct to say, that it is at least so far hypothetical as laws are opposed to it, and that they are to be removed before it can be a consummated law of the Land; I am convinced that the treaty making power has never been completely investigated in any Country. I am, dear Sir, with sincere good wishes Yr. very respectful Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-23-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0053", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Madison, 23 April 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    I inclose another number of the Debates on the Treaty. The subject is still going on in the House, as well as the press. The majority has melted, by changes and absence, to 8 or 9 votes. Whether these will continue firm is more than I can decide. Every possible exertion is made as usual on the other side. A sort of appeal has been made to the people, with an expectation that the mercantile force would triumph over the  popular sentiment. In this city the majority of petitioners has appeared against the Mercantile party. We do not know the event of the experiment in N. York. Petitions on both sides are running thro\u2019 the adjoining States of Delaware, and N. Jersey. Among other extraordinary manoeuvres, the Insurance Companies here and in New Y. stopt business, in order to reduce prices and alarm the public. The Banks have been powerfully felt in the progress of the petitions in the Cities for the Treaty. Scarce a merchant or Trader but what depends on discounts, and at this moment there is a general pinch for money. Under such circumstances, a Bank Director soliciting subscriptions is like a Highwayman with a pistol demanding the purse. We hope the question will be taken tomorrow. But if carried against the Treaty, the game will be played over again in other forms. The Senate will either send it down by itself, or coupled with the Spanish Treaty or both. Nothing of importance from Europe. Adieu.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0054-0002", "content": "Title: I. Thomas Jefferson to Philip Mazzei, 24 April 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Mazzei, Philip\n                        Your letter of Oct. 26. 1795. is just recieved and gives me the first information that the bills forwarded for you to V.S. \u2026 & H. of Amsterdam on W. Anderson for \u00a339.17.10 1/2 and on George Barclay for \u00a370.8.6. both of London have been protested. I immediately write to the drawers to secure the money if still unpaid. I wonder I have never had a letter from our friends of Amsterdam on that subject as well as acknoleging the subsequent remittances. Of these I have apprised you by triplicates, but for fear of miscarriage will just mention that on Sep. 8. I forwarded them Hodgden\u2019s bill on Robinson Saunderson & Rumney of Whitehaven for \u00a3300. and Jan. 31. that of the same on the same for \u00a3137.16.6. both received from Mr. Blair for your stock sold out.  I have now the pleasure to inform you that Dohrman has settled his account with you, has allowed the New York damages of 20. per cent. for the protest, and the New York interest of 7. per cent. and after deducting the partial payments for which he had receipts the balance was three thousand and eighty seven dollars, which sum he has paid into Mr. Madison\u2019s hands, and as he (Mr. Madison) is now in Philadelphia, I have desired him to invest the money in good bills on Amsterdam and remit them to the V. Staphorsts & Hubbard whom I consider as possessing your confidence as they do mine, beyond any house in London. The pyracies of that nation lately extended from the sea to the debts due from them to other nations, renders theirs an unsafe medium to do business through. I hope these remittances will place you at your ease, and I will endeavor to execute your wishes as to the settlement of the other small matters you mention: tho\u2019 from them I expect little. E.R. is bankrupt, or tantamount to it. Our friend M.P. is embarrassed, but having lately sold the fine lands he lives on, and being superlatively just and honorable I expect we may get whatever may be in his hands. Lomax is under greater difficulties with less means, so that I apprehend you have little more to expect from this country except the balance which will remain for Colle after deducting the little matter due to me, and what will be recovered by Anthony. This will be decided this summer.\n                        I have written to you by triplicates with every remittance I sent to the V.S. & H. and always recapitulated in each letter the objects of the preceding ones. I inclosed in two of them some seeds of the squash as you desired. Send me in return some seeds of the winter vetch, I mean that kind which is sown in autumn and stands thro the cold of winter, furnishing a crop of green fodder in March. Put a few seeds in every letter you may write to me. In England only the spring vetch can be had. Pray fail not in this. I have it greatly at heart.\n                        The aspect of our politics has wonderfully changed since you left us. In place of that noble love of liberty and republican government which carried us triumphantly thro\u2019 the war, an Anglican, monarchical and aristocratical party has sprung up, whose avowed object is to draw over us the substance as they have already done the forms of the British government. The main body of our citizens however remain true to their republican principles, the whole landed interest is with them, and so is a great mass of talents. Against us are the Executive, the Judiciary, two out of three branches of the legislature, all of the officers of the government, all who want to be officers, all timid men who prefer the calm of despotism to the boisterous sea of liberty, British merchants and Americans trading on British capitals, speculators and holders in the banks and public funds a contrivance invented for the purposes of corruption and for assimilating us in all things, to the rotten as well as the sound parts of the British model. It would give you a fever were I to name to you the apostates who have gone over to these heresies, men who were Samsons in the field and Solomons in the council, but who have had their heads shorn by the harlot England. In short we are likely to preserve the liberty we have obtained only by unremitting labors and perils. But we shall preserve them, and our mass of weight and wealth on the good side is so great as to leave no danger that force will ever be attempted against us. We have only to awake and snap the Lilliputian cords with which they have been entangling us during the first sleep which succeeded our labors.\u2014I will forward the testimonial of the death of Mrs. Mazzei which I can do the more incontrovertibly as she is buried in my grave yard, and I pass her grave daily. The formalities of the proof you require will occasion delay. John Page and his son Mann are well. The father remarried to a lady from N. York. Beverley Randolph e la sua consorte living and well. Their only child married to the 2d. son of T. M. Randolph. The eldest son you know married my eldest daughter, is an able learned and worthy character, but kept down by ill health. They have two children and still live with me. My younger daughter well. Colo. Innis is well, and a true republican still as are all those beforenamed. Colo. Monroe is our M.P. at Paris a most worthy  patriot and honest man. These are the persons you enquire after. I begin to feel the effects of age. My health has suddenly broke down, with symptoms which give me to believe I shall not have much to encounter of the tedium vitae. While it remains however my heart will be warm in it\u2019s friendships and among these will always foster the affection with which I am Dear Sir Your friend & servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0055", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to James Madison, 24 April 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Madison, James\n                    Yours of the 11th. is recieved, with the letter from Bringhurst. On consideration of all circumstances, I find that the advantages of taking iron from the manufacturer will be more than countervailed by disadvantages. I give up Sharpless therefore. Lownes I must abandon. Above a month ago I wrote to him for an additional ton of rod, merely to  furnish a decent occasion to call for nearly that quantity still unfurnished tho paid for so long ago as October last. I find it is not furnished because it was paid for before hand. I therefore conclude to open dealings with Mr. Howel, to whom I have written the inclosed letter, which I have left open for your perusal, merely that understanding the ground of my application, you may have the goodness to call on him, and just make us as it were acquainted in the offset, which will start us with that degree of good understanding that might otherwise require a course of time and dealing to establish. This single office performed, I will give you no further trouble with the business.\n                    With respect to Mazzei\u2019s money, I think it safest on the whole to remit it to the Van Staphorsts & Hubbard of Amsterdam, with whom Mazzei is on the best and most confidential terms. I will therefore ask the favor of you to invest it in bills on Amsterdam; not in London bills, as in a former remittance of bills on London payable to the V.S. & H. the drawee availed himself of Mr. Pitt\u2019s law forbidding paiment. I will write to V.S. & H. and also to Mazzei by this or the next post, to inform them of what we do, so that you need only put the bills under cover to V.S. & H. and refer them to the explanations they will recieve from me.\u2014Nothing new in politics. We are withering under an unparraleled drought. Adieu affectionately.\n                        P.S. I have written the letters to V.S. & H. and P.M. which I will pray you to have forwarded, for which purpose I inclose them.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "04-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0058", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Bushrod Washington, 26 April 1796\nFrom: Washington, Bushrod\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    I am Just setting off to Fredg. and have only time to enclose you with a N. Subpa., which please have delivered to the proper Shf. Your Letter respecting the other Suit, against Wayle\u2019s Exers. I received and shall attend to. With much respect I am Dear Sir Yr. Mo Ob Sert", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0060", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to James Lyle, 1 May 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Lyle, James\n                    Finding that I cannot depend on the profits of my plantations for paying off the last bond to Kippen &c. I have come to a resolution to sell two tracts of land, the one in Bedford, the other here, and have given directions in Bedford accordingly. If they can be sold, they will effect the whole paiment. The sale will yet require some time, and the circumstances of our country always require credit you know. This renders it impossible for me to fix precise times of paiment of the balance; they shall be shortened as much as possible. In the mean time perhaps better seasons than we have had may enable me to do something from the ordinary resources of my plantations. I can only answer for sincere intentions and efforts to wipe off this old score honestly in the end, and as speedily as I shall be able. My peace as well as your interests urge me to this. I am with sincerity Dear Sir Your friend & servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0061", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Madison, 1 May 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    I have your favor of the 17 Apl. covering two Extracts one from your notes, the other from mine. The latter corresponds with the recollection which myself, and other members had expressed; and the former with that of Majr. Butler, and with the Journals of the Senate. The Report of the Committee to which you refer, can not be found, tho\u2019 Mr. B. says he knows one was made. This enquiry has been set on foot without your name.\n                    The Treaty question was brought to a vote on friday in Committee of whole. Owing to the absence (certainly casual and momentary) of one  member, and the illness of another, the Committee were divided 49 and 49. The Chairman (Muhlenberg) decided in the affirmative, saying that in the House it would be subject to modification which he wished. In the House yesterday, an Enemy of the Treaty moved a preamble, reciting \u201cthat altho\u2019 the Treaty was highly objectionable, yet considering all circumstances, particularly the duration for two years &c. and confiding in the efficacy of measures that might be taken for stopping the Spoliations and impressments &c.\u201d For this ingredient, which you will perceive the scope of, all who meant to persevere against the Treaty, with those who only yielded for the reasons expressed in it, ought to have united in voting, as making the pill a bitter one to the Treaty party, as well as less poisonous to the public interest. A few wrongheads however thought fit to separate, whereby the motion was lost by one vote. The main question was then carried in favor of the Treaty by 51 against 48. This revolution was foreseen, and might have been mitigated tho\u2019 not prevented, if sooner provided for. But some who were the first to give way to the crisis under its actual pressure, were most averse to prepare for it. The progress of this business throughout has to me been the most worrying and vexatious that I ever encountered; and the more so as the causes lay in the unsteadiness, the follies, the perverseness, and the defections among our friends, more than in the strength or dexterity, or malice of our opponents. It is impossible for me to detail these causes to you now. My consolation under them is in the effect they have in riveting my future purposes. Had the preamble condemning the Treaty on its merits, exercising the discretionary power of the House, and requiring from the Ex. a stoppage of the spoliations &c., been agreed to, I have reason to believe, the Treaty party would have felt it a compleat defeat. You will be informed by the newspapers of the means practised for stirring up petitions &c. in favor of the Treaty. The plan was laid in this City and circulated by a correspondence thro\u2019 the Towns every where. In the mean time the Banks, the British merchants, the insurance Companies were at work in influencing individuals, beating down the prices of produce, and sounding the tocksin of foreign war, and domestic convulsions. The success has been such as you would suppose. In several neighbouring districts the people have been so deluded as to constrain their Representatives to renounce their opposition to the Treaty. An appeal to the people on any pending measure, can never be more than an appeal to those in the neighbourhood of the Govt. and to the Banks, the merchants and the dependents and expectants of the Govt. at a distance. Adieu affy.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0062", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Madison, 9 May 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    I have your letter on the subject of Mr. Howell and seen the old gentleman who interests himself in it. I think it probable you will find reason to be satisfied with the change you have made in your merchant. I have not yet been able to procure bills on Amsterdam for Van Staphorst. They can be got I am told, but not with so much ease or choice, as on London. I shall not intermit my attention to that object.\n                    We have had a calm ever since the decision on the Treaty. Petitions however continue to arrive, chiefly in favor of the Treaty. The N. England States have been ready to rise in mass against the H. of Reps. Such have been the exertions and influence of Aristocracy, Anglicism, and mercantilism in that quarter, that Republicanism is perfectly overwhelmed, even in the Town of Boston. I hope it will prove but a transitory calamity; and that the discovery of the delusion, will ultimately work a salutary effect. The people have been every where made to believe that the object of the H. of Reps. in resisting the Treaty was\u2014War; and have thence listened to the summons \u201cto follow where Washington leads.\u201d Nothing late from abroad. We expect to adjourn about the 20 or 25 inst: Adieu Yrs. affy\n                        We has just had a most plentiful rain after a drought nearly as severe as that with you.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0063", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to James Lyle, 12 May 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Lyle, James\n                    The present representative of Farrell & Jones has brought a suit against the executors of Mr. Wayles as security for the late R. Randolph on the foundation of a loose and equivocal expression in a letter neither meant as an engagement by Mr. Wayles nor understood as such by F. & J. I do not believe there is the smallest danger of it\u2019s being so understood by a court or jury, but as all things are possible and the sum so large that it would cripple my efforts to pay my real and honest debt to Henderson McCaul & Co. I inclose you a mortgage on a number of negroes sufficient to secure them effectually. I cannot pretend that the debt can be paid punctually at the instalments there provided for: on this head I shall count on the indulgence you have hitherto shewn by which both their debt and my fortune may in the long run be saved. You had better send the deed to your correspondent in Charlottesville where it may be proved by the witnesses or acknoleged by myself: and that without delaying a single post, as Mr. Hanson, if he gets his judgment will be upon us immediately. I am with great esteem Dear Sir Your affectionate friend & servt\n                        P.S. The sum not yet actually recieved is merely guessed at.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0064", "content": "Title: Enclosure: Deed of Mortgage of Slaves to Henderson, McCaul & Company, 12 May 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Henderson, McCaul & Company\n                    This indenture made on the 12th. day of May 1796. between Thomas Jefferson of Albemarle in Virginia of the one part, and Messrs. Henderson McCaul & Co. of Great Britain merchants and partners of the other part, witnesseth, that for the purpose of securing to the said Henderson McCaul & Co. several sums of money due to them from the said Thomas by several bonds amounting to about fifteen hundred pounds with interest, and in consideration that the said Henderson McCaul & Co. will forbear to demand by process in law, one third of the said debt till July 1797. one other third till July 1798. and one other third till July 1799, and for the further consideration of five shillings in hand paid to the said Thomas on their part, the said Thomas hath given, granted and conveyed to the said Henderson McCaul & Co. the following slaves to wit, Jame Hubbard and Cate his wife, and Armistead, Rachael, Burrel, Nace, Maria, Eve,  Philip, Sarah and Nancy their children, Will smith and Abbey his wife and Jesse, Sal, Lucy, Dick, Flora, Fanny, Edy and Armstead their children, Bess and Hal, Caesar and Cuffy her children, Suck and Cate, Daniel and Stephen her children, Hercules and Bet his wife and Austin, Gawen, Cate, Mary and Hercules their children, Hanah and Lucinda, Reuben and Solomon her children, Dick and Dinah his wife and John, Aggey, Moses, and Evans their children, all residing on the lands of the said Thomas called Poplar Forest in Bedford and Campbell, and Lucinda and Sarah, Sandy, and Sousy her children, residing on his lands called Lego in Albemarle, and Frank and Toby residing at Monticello in Albemarle, in all fifty two, to have and to hold the said slaves to them the said Henderson McCaul & Co. their heirs executors, and administrators. Provided that if the said Thomas shall pay to them, one third of the said debt and interest before July 1797. one other third before July 1798. and one other third before July 1799. or if the said Henderson McCaul & Co. should demand in law earlier paiment, then these presents to be void. In witness whereof the said Thomas hath hereto put his hand and seal on the day and year first above written.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0065", "content": "Title: Deed of Mortgage of Slaves to Van Staphorst & Hubbard, 12 May 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Van Staphorst & Hubbard\n                    This indenture made on the 12th. day of May 1796. between Thomas Jefferson of Virginia of the one part and Nicholas & Jacob Vanstaphorst & Hubbard of Amsterdam, bankers, of the other part, witnesseth that whereas the said Thomas is indebted to them in the two sums of one thousand and four dollars fifty four cents, and eight hundred and eighty eight dollars sixty seven cents making together eighteen hundred ninety three dollars twenty one cents for so much paid for him by them to the United states, for the purpose of securing the said whole sum lastmentioned, to them, and in consideration that they will forbear to demand by process in law one third of the said sum and interest till July 1797. one other third and interest till July 1798. and one other third and interest till July 1799. and for the further consideration of five shillings to him by them paid he the said Thomas hath given granted and conveyed to the said Nicholas & Jacob Van Staphorst & Hubbard the following slaves to wit, Ned and Jenny his wife and Ned, Fanny, Dick, Gill and Scilla their children, Rachael and Naney and Abram her children, old Betty and Val. residing at the lands of the said Thomas in Albemarle called Tufton, and Bagwell and Minerva his wife and Ursula, Mary and Virginia their children residing on his lands in Albemarle called Lego, in all seventeen to have and to hold the said slaves to the said Nicholas & Jacob Van Staphorst & Hubbard their heirs executors and administrators. Provided that if the said Thomas  shall pay to the said Nicholas & Jacob Van Staphorst & Hubbard one third of the said debt and interest before July 1797. one [other] third before July 1798. and one other third before July 1799. or if they should demand in law earlier paiment then these presents to be void. In witness whereof the said Thomas hath hereto set his hand and seal the day first above written.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-15-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0067", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Archibald Stuart, 15 May 1796\nFrom: Stuart, Archibald\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Your favor on the Subject of the Stone-Mason was received while at New-London. Immediately on my arrival at home I waited on him in hopes of being able to persude him to undertake your business but found it impracticable and should have written to you immediately to  that effect had not Mr. Coalter Informed me he had done so. I then had recourse to a Mr. Jewell whom I could have recommended but found him engaged also.\n                    I have Just returned from the court of Bath where I saw a Mr. Cavendish from Greenbrier who tells me that some people who were Makeing Salt-Petre in a large cave in that county have found a bone of the toe of some Animal eight or ten inches long and half as thick as his Wrist. That the end of it which went into the claw was as thick and almost as long as his finger. He has promised to send it to Me, as soon as I receive it shall forward it to you by the first safe Opportunity. The Frost has been so severe here as to Injure some of our forward rye and to kill the foliage in many places. I am with respect and esteem yr very H Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-16-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0068", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Mann Page, [16 May 1796]\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Page, Mann\n                        Th: Jefferson to Mann Page\n                    I am growing old, and am grown lazy, and particularly [in wri]ting letters. Yet, when any circumstance of business [orders] [\u2026] to take up a pen for an old friend, I [\u2026] feel the warmth [of earlier] years rekindle in my heart. While writing to you I am (in imagination) at Rosewell, 25 years old, in all the vigour of love and liberty. It is unpleasant that we should have been made, like our watches, to wear out by degrees, lose our teeth, and become unfit for our functions. A musical glass would have been a better type, sound, strong, and vibrating in all it\u2019s harmony till some accident shivers it to atoms.\u2014But I am forgetting my business. I have just recieved a letter from our friend Mazzei, who is settled at Pisa and in want of common necessaries. He presses me to glean up some little matters he left here. He mentions a chair and horse left with you for sale, and something, he does not recollect what, with Mr. Lomax. If you have any thing in your hands, or can [\u2026] from Mr. Lomax whatever he may have and place it in any hands in Richmond, I will have it remitted. In the application which I trouble you to make to Mr. Lomax (on account of your greater vicinity to him) pray convey to him my affectionate remembrance and respects, which neither time nor distance has lessened. I am full of business for this year. Besides the attention to my farms I am uncovering and repairing my house, which  during my absence had gone much to decay. I make some alterations in it with a greater eye to convenience than I had when younger. Present my friendly respects to Mrs. Page. Adieu affectionately.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0069", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Alexandre Lerebours, 17 May 1796\nFrom: Lerebours, Alexandre\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                        Philadelphie 28 floreal an 4e. de\nla R\u00e9publique franc\u00e7ise (17 Mai 1796)\n                    En traversant l\u2019oc\u00e9an atlantique pour venir dans cette int\u00e9ressante partie du nouveau monde, mon dessein \u00e9tait d\u2019y propager les d\u00e9couvertes utiles de mon pays, et je vous prie d\u2019accepter quelques m\u00e9moires et rapports que j\u2019ai apport\u00e9s de france concernant divers inventions et decouvertes dans les Sciences, les Arts-m\u00e9caniques et les m\u00e9tiers: La plupart de ces inventions ont \u00e9t\u00e9 couronn\u00e9es par les Soci\u00e9t\u00e9s savantes de Paris et ont m\u00e9rit\u00e9 des recompenses nationales.\n                    Je viens de recevoir de france plusieurs Journaux de Science et de litt\u00e9rature, et je me propose d\u2019en faire une analyse que j\u2019aurai soin de vous faire parvenir.\n                    Je dois vous annoncer que nous avons en france un Tribunal de savans \u00e9rig\u00e9, au nom du l\u00e9gislateur, pour juger des inventions et d\u00e9couvertes, et decerner aux inventeurs les recompenses nationales. Les Savans qui composent ce tribunal sont pris dans les principales Soci\u00e9t\u00e9s savantes de Paris.\n                    Autrefois les Ministres et les Rois pronon\u00e7aient sur les ouvrages des Savans et des Philosophes; mais [on] con\u00e7oit aujourd\u2019hui que c\u2019\u00e9tait le comble du ridicule [et] de l\u2019ignominie que de laisser l\u2019ignorance, le Sceptre [en] main, juger, dans ses caprices souverains et pervers, les monumens du g\u00e9nie. J\u2019ai l\u2019honneur d\u2019\u00eatre tr\u00e8s respectueusement, Monsieur, Votre tr\u00e8s humble et tr\u00e8s ob\u00e9issant serviteur\n                        Alexandre Lerebours", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0070", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Patrick White, 19 May 1796\nFrom: White, Patrick\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    I am favoured with yours of the 7th. which came to me by the hands of Messrs. Buchannan Dunlop & Co. the 14th. I never knew that John Banisters debt to you was partly a Bill of exchange and a note, as this is the case if you will forward them to your friends in Richmond with a Receipt in full for the debt he owed you I will pay your demand of Sixty three pounds three shillings and 8d. current money though you will please observe you charge interest on \u00a334.2.4 from 1st. January 91 until the 5th. of the present month. I think with you that interest is but a trifling compensation for the service you rendered Mr. Banister in France yet I must in every Respect be governed by the Law in what I do as administrator to his Estate. I fear there will be a deficiency in his personal estate towards the payment of the different demands. I am wh. Respect &C.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0071", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from William Strickland, 20 May 1796\nFrom: Strickland, William\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Since my return home I have executed as fully as I have been able, tho not as compleatly as I could have wished the principal commission with which you charged me, that of procuring you the varieties of peas and vetches; those which I send you and of which some account is given in another paper which accompanies this are the sorts usually cultivated in this country, and all with which I am acquainted, tho I have heard that there are some other varieties cultivated in some parts of the country,  possessing similar properties with these, propagated in the same manner and applied to the same purposes, but I rather suspect them to be the same plants bearing different names in different places; the whole of these form an essential article in the modern system of improved agriculture; they constitute one of the crops which succeed the very exhausting crops of grain, and that too in soils not sufficiently fertile to produce others of the intervening crops; they not only thereby prevent the too frequent recurrance of grain by which the soil is exhausted, but they seem to possess in themselves, either the power of restoring the agitating properties of the soil, or enable the soil more powerfully to attract from the atmosphere or otherwise to acquire those properties when coverd by their dense shade, than it would have were it exposed naked and bare to the influence of the atmosphere; Philosophy has not yet sufficiently accompanied agriculture to have ascertained how the earth regains the properties of which it has been deprived and the agriculturist is contented with the fact, without reasoning on the cause.\n                    You pointed out to me some other kinds of Vetches which had been cultivated by Miller; but of them I can gain no intelligence; they are now known only to the Botanists; probably being found neither useful nor ornamental their cultivation ceased in this country soon after their introduction.\n                    I send you along with the above mentiond seeds; a small parcel containing seeds of several of the vetch tribe, the native wild produce of this country; I gathered them some years since with a view of trying experiments with them for the purposes of Agriculture, and they still may possess the power of vegitation: while on the subject of vetches, I must remark to you; that in various parts of the mountains of Virginia particularly the Blue ridge, I observed several different plants, apparently of the Vetch tribe, and some probably perennial, growing spontaneously and very luxuriantly in the woods, one in particular with a Pink and white flower nearly as large as that of a cultivated Pea; these I should recommend to the attention of the American cultivator as the climate and soil would probably suit them better, than those from Europe; besides the pea vine which is no other than a vetch and which is highly nutricious to cattle, is known still to grow plentifully and spontaneously to the West of the mountains, and probably was formerly equally plentiful to the East of them, but it has there long since carried its own destruction in its own good qualities. This appears highly worthy of attention.\n                    When at Monticello you shewd me the first field of Clover that had been sown in that part of Virginia, from observations I afterwards made I have no doubt of its thriving as well there, as elsewhere in America,  and I see not why you should not equal the luxuriant crops of Pensylvania; but where the clover grows so vigorously it is necessary for some grass to be sown among it, to support its weight and keep it from lying too close to the ground; no other grass has hitherto been applied to the purpose in America than Timothy grass; but it does not answer it perfectly, not vegitating uniformly with the clover; the consequence of which is, that at hay time, either the clover must be cut too late to accommodate the timothy, or the latter too early in order that the clover may be cut when at its greatest perfection: after I left you I saw a single instance of the Meadow cocksfoot-grass (Dactylis gromerata) one of our best meadow grasses growing extremely luxuriantly; which appears to me likely every way to answer the purpose of Timothy, better than that grass, whether sown with Clover, or separately for pasturage; as it is not a grass the seed of which is separately collected and sown in this country, I have collected a few heads of it in the fields, and would have sent you more had I been able to procure them after the late period of my arrival in the Country; I recommend them to your care, and think they will reward you for what you bestow upon them.\n                    Where the improvement of the agriculture of a country can go hand in hand, with the improvement of the morals of a people, and the increase of their happiness, there it must stand in its most exalted state, there it ought to be seen in the most favourable light by the Politician there it must meet with the countenance and support of every good man and every friend to his country; so is it at present circumstanced in your country: by the cultivation of Barley your lands would be greatly improved; and the morals and health of the people benefited by the beverage it produces exchanged for the noxious spirits to which they have at present unfortunately recourse; besides the labour of the year would be more equally and advantageously divided, the grain being sown in the spring; but it was a striking circumstance that while the government was wisely encouraging the Breweries, in opposition to the distilleries the country should be entirely ignorant of the grain by which alone they could prosper; I have reason to believe that a grain of Barley has never yet been sown on the Continent; the grain which is there sown, under that name, is not that from which our malt-liquors are made; it is here known under the name of Bigg, or Bigg-barley, is cultivated only on the Northern Mountains of this Island, and used only for the inferior purposes of feeding pigs or poultry, and is held to be of much too inferior a quality to Make into Malt, and of the five different grains of the species of Barley known to us, it is held to be by far the worst; I have therefore taken the liberty of sending a small quantity of the best species of  Barley, (the Flat or Battledore Barley) and the one most likely to succeed with you; this grain is sown in the spring, on any rich cultivated soil; I recommend it strongly to your attention; and shall rejoice if I prove the means of introducing into your country an wholesome and invigorating liquor.\n                    I recollect seeing upon the Lawn of Monticello, a Larch tree, which appeard to thrive in the situation; I have therefore in order to fill the box sent a small bag of the cones; the timber is the best of all the resinous trees, the product of Europe; and the tree I think is likely to thrive on the North side of your Mountains or in shady situations among them; for the same reason I have also sent a few of the seeds of the Sycamore (Acer Pseudo platanus) an Umbrageous tree that may possibly shelter you from the scorching sun of Virginia.\n                    You will find also in the box a few books, which possibly may prove worthy of your attention, some of them are voted to you by the Board of Agriculture, from whom I am requested to transmitt them to you; the labours of that Board are not yet sufficiently matured to come before the publick, but they are now engaged in perfecting an Agricultural survey of this Island which will communicate a mass of information from one part of it to another; and probably give to the world the best and most valuable information on the culture of the earth that ever yet has been before it.\n                    Though this letter is meant to contain nothing but farming information, my intention being to write another, which I hope you may receive by an earlier conveyance, I will just mention that your map of Spanish America is safe in the hands of Mr: Faden, and that he wishes to keep it till about Christmas next, but will deliver it into any persons hands you order; or if you give no orders, into mine, and I will have it safely conveyed to you; he desires me to say that he hopes in about a twelvemonth to publish a map far more complete, than you would expect, he having obtaind some maps and information, unknown when you were last in Europe.\n                    I have enquired after and seen the machine for ascertaining the resistance of Plows; and am told it answers well the purpose intended; the plan is extremely simple, consequently the price, which is five guineas is too great, but the inventors of machinery which will not have a general sale, expect and ought to be well paid, as much time is frequently bestowed upon perfecting a trifle. It is invented and sold by Winlaw, in Margaret Street, Cavendish square. I shall now conclude my long letter with informing you that I arrived in England in September last after a very short passage, and had the pleasure of finding all my family well;  that I shall ever remember with the greatest satisfaction my visit to America, and the civilities I received from yourself among so many other people, and rejoice in having it in my power to make any return for them. I beg my best Compliments to Mr: and Mrs: Randolph and Miss Jefferson, and am Dear Sir Yours very truly & sincerely\n                        Since writing the above I have procured two or three of the county surveys, in order to shew you the nature of the undertaking; they are not designed for the Public inspection; but printed for the Board and circulated in the districts to which they relate, in order to obtain, as you will immediately perceive on inspecting them, additional and more accurate information, which will then be published, and the whole afterwards digested and compressed, for the benefit of mankind, and will form an History of Agriculture at the close of the eighteenth century.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0072", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Van Staphorst & Hubbard, 21 May 1796\nFrom: Van Staphorst & Hubbard\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Our last respects were of 11 Ultimo.\n                    We have now to acknowledge receipt of your very esteemed favor of 28 February, applying for the Loan of One to Two Thousand Dollars, to meliorate your Farm, which request we deem a proof of your Friendship towards us, and of the confidence You place in our\u2019s for You.\n                    The revolution in this Country, has caused money to be so scarce here, that We too can employ our Capitals, were they ten times greater than they are, more valuably than in simple Loans. Exclusive of this, our engagements and payments for the Government, are to an Amount, to compel us to decline advances. Wherefore it is highly gratifying to us, yours is of an extent still easily manageable for us. Such being the case, We most chearfully assent to your application, and inclose You a letter for Messrs. Harrison & Sterett of Philadelphia, desiring them to furnish you Two Thousand Dollars against your Bill on us for that sum, which they will take and remit us.\n                    We forbear to acquaint Messrs. Harrison & Sterett of the nature of this Transaction, leaving entirely to your goodself, to forward us by duplicate or triplicate your Bond for the money at legal interest, reimbursable at the Terms, that will suit your Convenience.\n                    As the Interest shall fall due Annually please pay it unto Messrs. Harrison & Sterett of Philadelphia, simply as so much money for our account, for which their receipt shall be of equal validity as our Own. Do us the justice to believe us with the most sincere esteem and regard Sir! Your very obed. hb. servants", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0073", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to John Barnes, 2[2] May 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Barnes, John\n                    On the 22d. of the last month I drew on you in favor of Robert Barclay for twenty seven dollars thirty one cents. The present serves to advise you that I have this day drawn on you for one hundred dollars in favor of Messrs. Samuel Howel junr. & Co.\n                    Will you be able to give me any information by what conveyance were forwarded the boots, gongs and tea, so as to enable me to trace them? I am with great esteem Dr. Sir Your friend & servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0075", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from William Thornton, 22 May 1796\nFrom: Thornton, William\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    I should at all times rejoice in an opportunity of paying to you my particular respects, but more especially at the present time, as I am enabled to make my Devoirs through the medium of the celebrated Volney. He is too well known to you, not only personally, but by reputation, to allow me to say any thing in his behalf: I must, however, own, that my Selfishness induces me to wish I could have detained him longer, though by doing so I should delay those refined Gratifications, which, by intercourse, mutually await you. If the Duties of my Office would have suffered my Absence, I should have attended him with pleasure, for every Day would open a new Source of delight. I have conversed with him on the Establishment of a National University in this place, and am happy that he approves of the general plan. The particular Details I shall write as my Engagements will permit. The thought of incorporating in the University a Philosophical Society, upon an extensive Scale, and of having in its Bosom a Select Committee is much  approved of by Mr. Volney. He mentioned the formation of one upon a similar plan in France, of which I had not before heard. The Account of that he will relate to you. Much may be done by a few persons labouring for the benefit of the World; indeed, a regenerated people may almost be expected from the exertions of Individuals: if, however, such Exertions should not succeed to the utmost extent, the Satisfaction of having done what is approved of by reflection is unspeakable; and whatever has a good tendency, though not immediately adopted, will finally be received with due attention. That Mr. Volney may have a pleasant Journey, and find you in good Health, is the sincere Wish of dear Sir, your affectionate & respectful Friend", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0079", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to John Stuart, 26 May 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Stuart, John\n                    I have great acknolegements to make you for your favor of April 11. which came to hand a few days ago with the bones you were pleased also to send, towit the leg bone and two phalanges of the toe of the animal mentioned in your letter. One of these (the claw) was broke, but so that we could put it together. This animal is certainly hitherto unknown, and seems, from the dimensions of these bones, to have the same preeminence over the lion, which the big Buffalo or Mammoth has over the elephant. They furnish a victorious fact against the idle dreams of some  European philosophers who pretend that animal nature in the new world is a degeneracy from that of the old. If the big buffalo [were] an Elephant, as Buffon would have us believe, it was surely an elephant improved, for it was of 4. or 5. times his size. So if his followers (in order to support their doctrine of a central heat in the earth) should chuse to consider the animal now discovered as a lion, they must admit it is a lion improved and not degenerated. I consider these bones as a great acquisition, and shall make a point of communicating the discovery and description of them to the learned on both sides of the Atlantic. I only defer it till I can learn whether a hope exists of finding any other of the bones, as I would wish that the first information should be exact and as complete as possible. Has there ever been any other remains of this species found any where? I must look to you, Sir, to complete the knowlege of this animal for us as you have begun it, by giving me all the further information you can, and sending what other bones can be got of it, and to be so good as to inform me by letter whether any thing more may be expected, that I may decide whether I ought to delay giving an account of it. I am with great esteem Sir your most obedt. servt.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0080", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Sir John Sinclair, 28 May 1796\nFrom: Sinclair, Sir John\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                        Board of Agriculture Whitehall\n                    I have much pleasure in transmitting to You a Copy of my last address to the Board of Agriculture, in which I have pointed out the progress of that Institution. It would give me additional Satisfaction to propose you as a foreign Honorary Member, But I think it would be better, if that Honor was Conferred in Consequence of Your favouring us with Some important Communication, to which you are So equal. I flatter myself, we may Still meet again once more in England, our last interview here is very present in my mind, and it would give me Concern, if we were not occasionally to renew our Correspondence, and intercourse. Believe me always with great truth and Regard. Dear Sir your faithful & obedient servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0081", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from William Strickland, 28 May 1796\nFrom: Strickland, William\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    As soon as it was in my power after my return to England I set about procuring the different kinds of Peas and Vetches which are cultivated in this country and which I promised to send you; as they were to be obtaind from different and distant parts of the Kingdom they were not to be collected together at an earlier period than the present, which indeed is as early as is requisite as they could not have been sown before the next season; a box marked  V.irginia. forming nearly a cube of fifteen or sixteen inches containing those seeds, some others which I thought might be useful to you, and some recent publications, I put yesterday into the hands of Mr: Alexander Donald (now residing at No: 5 Great Winchester Street, Broad Street) who took the charge of them and said he would have them conveyed to you by the first eligible opportunity. On the contents of the box it is not necessary for me here to enlarge, because should it arrive safe, you will find within it every necessary information, and should it not reach its destination, whatever might be said here would prove useless; I shall rejoice hereafter to hear that the contents of it, answer your and my expectation.\n                    I have enquired of Faden respecting your map of Spanish America; he informs me that it is in his possession, and that he wishes to keep it till about Christmas next: but will deliver it up at any time to any one you may direct to receive it; and that if you direct no one to receive it, he will after that period sent it to me; he desires me to inform you that he expects his map to be out before this time twelve-month, and that you will find it far more compleat than you could have foreseen in consequence of some maps, hitherto unknown of, which he has received from Portugal and information he has obtaind from late travellers in the Spanish dominions. Should your map come into my possession I will carefully preserve it, till I receive your direction for its safe conveyance to you.\n                    I have made enquiries about the machine for ascertaining the power required for the draft of Ploughs, and am informed by those who have tried it, that it answers well the purpose. It acts by means of a spring fixed on the swinging-tree by which the Plough is drawn; this spring being depressed by the force applied, shews by means of an index the  number of \u2114s: weight (or consequently proportion of strength) required to draw the plough, or any other body, to which it may be applied; the machine is very simple, and is the contrivance of and is sold by Winlaw, in Margaret Street, Cavendish Square; and the price of it is Five Guineas. I think I have now executed all the commissions with which you entrusted me, but in return for the civilities I received from you in America, shall never be happier than in being favourd with your commands, whenever I can be of any service to you in this country.\n                    In your Notes on Virginia, of which the world looks and wishes for a new and enlarged edition, because no one is so well qualified as yourself to afford an history of your country in all its branches, political, Philosophical, and Natural, notice is taken of several caverns in the Mountains from which issue strong currents of air; this is said to be very cold, tho\u2019 the temperature probably does not fall much below 60 degrees of Farenheits thermometer, the usual temperature of the water and consequently of the earth in the climate of Virginia, but which affords a sensation of greater cold, in consequence of the violence with which the current impinges upon the surface of the body. That air issues out of caverns into open day, has been observed in other countries, and may be accounted for, from the streams of air which are known to circulate within the bowels of the earth in these particular places meeting with a vent, and which being colder, are also heavier than the air without the earth and consequently rush forward to take its place; and therefore these currents of air are probably stronger, in proportion as the weather is hotter; but I was informed by a gentleman, whose authority and accuracy of observation I cannot doubt, that several caves have of late been discovered (and in consequence of the recent discovery I take the liberty of mentioning them to you as you may not have heard of them) on the North Branch of Cacapon (as I think it is called) a river flowing northward, from among the Mountains of Virginia into the Cohongaronta or Northern Branch of Potomack, which are there called the Ice-caves. The air issuing out of these is so intensely cold, that the insides of them are throughout the year incrusted with a coat of Ice; in some places observed to be several feet in thickness, any part of which being taken away is soon renewed by the dampness and frigorific powers of the atmosphere of the place. My informant had been at these caves and carefully examined them, not above ten days before he mentioned them to me, which was in the end of May last; and then found them in the state described.\n                    This is a new Phanomenon of Nature and not easy to be accounted for. How should the air be so much colder than the earth in which it  circulates and is pent up? or if of the same temperature with the earth, why should the earth here be much colder than the mean temperature of it elsewhere in the same latitude? Nitre is known to be productive of cold, and all the Mountains of Virginia to abound with it; but it has not hitherto been observed that in the caverns that produce it plentifully, the air has been colder than in other caverns not possessing this Salt and nitre seems alone scarcely cause sufficient for so singular an effect; I wished much to have ascertained the temperature of some of the caverns where the nitre is found, but it was not in my power to do it after I had received an account of the Ice-caves, much less was it in my power to visit these last, as I had already spent more time among the mountains than I had intended, and had I indulged my inclination for exploring all the wonders of that delightful region I should scarcely yet have crossed the Atlantic; to natives therefore must it be left to make the discoveries, and to me in future to be content with the account of them.\n                    When in America I made several attempts to procure the seed of the Buffalo clover, which is said to abound in the Country west of the Mountains; but without effect; should it come in your way at any time to procure some of the seed, I should be greatly obliged to you for a very small quantity of it, it is described as a plant, the cultivation of which is worthy of being attempted. Bartram mentiond to me a singular shrub which he knew of as growing wild only in your neighbourhood, the fruit of which produced a pure oil; and which shrub if I recollect right I also mentiond to you; this may hereafter prove to America what the olive is to Europe; should you know this plant or be able to procure some of the seed of it, I should be glad to present some to my Botanical Friends here.\n                    As to affairs in Europe it is as difficult as at any time heretofore to say what may be the result of their present situation; the French are following up their successes in Italy, of which at this moment they may be said to have made an absolute conquest; and are now in the heart of Milan from which the Austrians are fled; with Sardinia they have concluded a peace on their own terms; and on the Rhine the campain has not yet been opend probably as negotiations are carrying on with the Austrians who by Peace alone seem likely to regain their possessions in Italy, or perhaps divert greater evils; as to ourselves we are at peace at home, and relieved from the apprehensions of scarcity, which had been too hastily taken up in the last Autumn; grain and wheat in particular, tho this last bears an higher price than usual here, is cheaper than in almost any other country at this time, (about 9/6 ster: a Bushel, or 2 1/9 Doll: of your money); this has not been effected by foreign import, for at this  price or even one considerably higher, no importation could be looked for; but from our own internal supply proving far greater than was expected, and probably nearly equal to the average produce, and consequently demand of the year; but the crop of 1795 was to make up for the deficient harvest of 1794, and which has been the chief cause of the present high price. The crop now on the ground has no future risks to run, and has every appearance of abundance; but notwithstanding these favourable circumstances we are involved in the evils of warfare; and tho in the progress of it we have nothing to dread from the arms of our opponents even should we be left to stand single against them, yet the expence of the opposition will be to them a victory; and our inability or disinclination to support greater burdens, must be productive of Peace; a fortunate circumstance for mankind that impotence should have power to act when principles that ought to prevail have lost their influence.\n                    Remembering, as I always shall do, with pleasure the time I spent in America, the many civilities I received and liberal hospitality I experienced from yourself and so many others, the least return I can make is the offer of my services to yourself or any of your Friends, whether they be in this country or America, and to assure you that I shall never be happier than in receiving your commands and executing of them; I arrived in England in Septr: last after a very short passage, and had the pleasure to find all my family in perfect health; and as no one experienced any inconvenience from my absence, and I had every reason to be pleased with my visit to America I shall hereafter esteem the time I was there as the best spent year of my life. I beg you will make my best respects to Mr: and Mrs: Randolph and Miss Jefferson and mention my remembrance of the civilities I received to all who recollect me and believe me Dear Sir yours most sincerely & faithfully\n                        P:S: Pray remember me to Col: Cole when yo[u see] him; he desired me to make enquiries after Col: Lynn, who during the war had some time resided with him at Enniscorthy, but I am sorry to inform him that he died during my absence in America; but a Son, or Brother of his is alive and now a Col: in our service. My direction (if required) is W:S: at York. England.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0082", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Joseph Marx, 29 May 1796\nFrom: Marx, Joseph\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    By last Mail I recieved a Letter from Mr. B Bohlen of Philadelphia enclosing a Draft on You, from Jos Cerrachi favor G Meade 30 Days sight $1500. which I am requested to present for acceptance, not having an opportunity of personally presenting it, I should wish to be informed by return of Post, whether You intend to accept it, or should You decline doing it, I am requested to recieve the Bust sent by Mr. Cerrachi and forward it to Philadelphia. I am with due Respect, Sir Your very Hble Servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "05-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0083", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Madison, 30 May 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Congress will adjourn the day after to-morrow. News as late as April 8 from London; peace likely to take place between France and England; provisions falling much in price, both in F. and G.B. The moneyed distresses reviving in the latter, and great alarms for a terrible shock to the Banking and Mercantile Houses.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0084", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Pleasants, 1 June 1796\nFrom: Pleasants, Robert\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Concieving the Instruction of black Children to be a duty we owe to that much degraded part of our fellow Creatures, and probably would tend to the spiritual and temporal advantage of that unhappy race, as well as to the Community at large, in fitting them for freedom, which at this enlightened day is generally acknowledged to be their right, I have much desired to see some sutable steps taken to promote such work; And believing thee to be a real friend to the cause of liberty, and endowed with ability and influence in regulating and promoting sutable plans for such a purpose, I take the liberty by my Friend Richard Dobs of sending thee a rough Essay for thy consideration, with a request, that should thou approve the subject, thou wilt please to make such alterations or amendments as may appear to thee more likely to answer the desired purpose, and to give it such other incouragement as thou may think right\u2014I hope thou will excuse the freedom I have now taken, and believe me to be with sincere respect & Esteem Thy Friend", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0085", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Joseph Marx, 4 June 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Marx, Joseph\n                    I am favored with yours of May 29. Some time in the course of the last year I was informed by Mr. Meade that he held a draught of Mr. Ceracchi\u2019s on me for 1000 D. and desired to know if it was good. I explained to him, too much at length to be here repeated, how unfounded the draught was, and that I should not accept it. Nothing further therefore is now necessary than to repeat to you that I do not propose to accept the said bill, nor claim the bust on which it is drawn. I am Sir Your very humble servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0086", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Charles Willson Peale, 5 June 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Peale, Charles Willson\n                    I have recieved a proposition from Europe which may perhaps be turned to account for the enlargement of your Museum. The hereditary prince of Parma, a young man of letters, of 22. years of age, lately married to a daughter of the K. of Spain, is desirous of augmenting his cabinet of Natural history by an addition of all the American subjects of the 3 departments of nature and will give those of Europe which can be procured or of which he has duplicates in exchange. Perhaps it would suit you to enter into this kind of commerce. If so, be so good as to inform me by letter how far you would chuse to enter into the exchange; I defer writing my answer to him till I hear from you. The intervention of the Spanish minister at Philadelphia would sometimes perhaps be used; sometimes perhaps my own; and shipments could be made to and from Genoa and Leghorn. I am with great esteem Dear Sir Your friend & servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0088", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to James Monroe, 12 June 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Monroe, James\n                    The dreadful misfortune of poor Derieux, who has lost his house and all it\u2019s contents by fire occasions the present letter to cover one from him to his aunt. I send it open for your perusal. Be so good as to seal and send it. I hope she will if she has not done it already, send him some relief.\n                    I recieved only 3. weeks ago your favor of Nov. 18. It had been 5. months on it\u2019s way to me. The season for engaging laborers to prepare for your buildings was then over. They are to be got only about the newyear\u2019s day. To this is added that the plan you promise to send is not come. It is perhaps not unfortunate that nothing was begun this year. Corn @ 25/ to 30/ a barrel would have rendered building this year extremely dear. It does so to me who had engaged in it before that  circumstance was foreseen. If your plan arrives, I will consult with Mr. Jones, and according to the result of our consultation make preparations in the winter for the next year\u2019s work.\n                    Congress have risen. You will have seen by their proceedings the truth of what I always observed to you, that one man outweighs them all in influence over the people who have supported his judgment against their own and that of their representatives. Republicanism must lie on it\u2019s oars, resign the vessel to it\u2019s pilot, and themselves to the course he thinks best for them.\u2014I had always conjectured, from such facts as I could get hold of, that our public debt was increasing about a million of dollars a year. You will see by Gallatin\u2019s speeches that the thing is proved. You will see further that we are compleatly saddled and bridled, and that the bank is so firmly mounted on us that we must go where they will guide. They openly publish a resolution that the national property being increased in value they must by an increase of circulating medium furnish an adequate representation of it, and by further additions of active capital promote the enterprizes of our merchants. It is supposed that the paper in circulation in and around Philadelphia amounts to 20. millions of Doll. and that in the whole union to 100. millions. I think the last too high. All the imported commodities are raised about 50. per cent, by the depreciation of the money. Tobacco shares the rise because it has no competition abroad. Wheat has been extravagantly high from other causes. When these cease, it must fall to it\u2019s antient nominal price notwithstanding the depreciation of that, because it must contend at market with foreign wheats. Lands have risen within the vortex of the paper, and as far out as that can influence. They are not risen at all here. On the contrary they are lower than they were 20. years ago. Those I had mentioned to you, to wit, Carter\u2019s and Colle were sold before your letter came. Colle @ two dollars the acre. Carter\u2019s had been offered me for two French crowns (13/2). Mechanics here get from a dollar to a dollar and a half a day, yet are much worse off than at old prices.\n                    Volney is with me at present. He is on his way to the Illinois. Some late appointments judiciary and diplomatic you will have heard and stared at. The death of R. Jouett is the only small news in our neighborhood. Our best affections attend Mrs. Monroe, Eliza, and yourself. Adieu affectionately.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0089", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to John Barnes, 19 June 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Barnes, John\n                    I wrote you May 22. advising you of a draught for 100.D. payable to Saml. Howell junr. & Co. The present serves to cover a power of attorney to recieve about 300.D. July 1. from the bank of the US. and to advise you that I have this day drawn on you for 300.D. payable to Samuel Howell & Co. July 2. which be pleased to honor on account of Dear Sir Your most obedt. servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0091", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to George Washington, 19 June 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Washington, George\n                    In Bache\u2019s Aurora of the 9th. inst. which came here by the last post, a paper appears which, having been confided, as I presume, to but few hands, makes it truly wonderful how it should have got there. I cannot be satisfied as to my own part till I relieve my mind by declaring, and I attest every thing sacred and honorable to the declaration, that it has got there neither thro\u2019 me nor the paper confided to me. This has never been from under my own lock and key, or out of my own hands. No mortal ever knew from me that these questions had been proposed. Perhaps I ought to except one person who possesses all my confidence as he has possessed yours. I do not remember indeed that I communicated it even to him. But as I was in the habit of unlimited trust and counsel with him, it is possible I may have read it to him. No more: for the quire of which it makes a part was never in any hand but my own, nor was a word ever copied or taken down from it, by any body. I take on myself, without fear, any divulgation on his part. We both know him incapable of it. From myself then or my paper this publication has never been derived.  I have formerly mentioned to you that, from a very early period of my life, I had laid it down as a rule of conduct never to write a word for the public papers. From this I have never departed in a single instance: and on a late occasion when all the world seemed to be writing, besides a rigid adherence to my own rule, I can say with truth that not a line for the press was ever communicated to me by any other: except a single petition referred for my correction; which I did not correct however tho the contrary, as I have heard, was said in a public place, by one person through error, thro\u2019 malice by another. I learn that this last has thought it worth his while to try to sow tares between you and me, by representing me as still engaged in the bustle of politics, and in turbulence and intrigue against the government. I never believed for a moment that this could make any impression on you, or that your knolege of me would not overweigh the slander of an intriguer, dirtily  employed in sifting the conversations of my table, where alone he could hear of me, and seeking to atone for his sins against you by sins against another who had never done him any other injury than that of declining his confidences. Political conversation I really dislike, and therefore avoid where I can without affectation. But when urged by others, I have never concieved that having been in public life requires me to bely my sentiments, nor even to conceal them. When I am led by conversation to express them, I do it with the same independance here which I have practised every where, and which is inseparable from my nature.\u2014But enough of this miserable tergiversator, who ought indeed either to have been of more truth or less trusted by his country.\n                    While on the subject of papers permit me to ask one from you. You remember the difference of opinion between Hamilton and Knox on the one part and myself on the other on the subject of firing on the Little Sarah, and that we had exchanged opinions and reasons in writing. On your arrival in Philadelphia I delivered you a copy of my reasons in the presence of Colo. Hamilton. On our withdrawing, he told me he had been so much engaged that he had not been able to prepare a copy of his and General Knox\u2019s for you, and that if I would send you the one he had given me he would replace it in a few days. I immediately sent it to you, wishing you should see both sides of the subject together. I often after applied to both the gentlemen but could never obtain another copy. I have often thought of asking this one or a copy of it back from you, but have not before written on subjects of this kind to you. Tho\u2019 I do not know that it will ever be of the least importance to me yet one loves to possess arms tho\u2019 they hope never to have occasion for them. They possess my paper in my own handwriting. It is just I should possess theirs. The only thing amiss is that they should have left me to seek a return of the paper, or a copy of it, from you.\n                    I put away this disgusting dish of old fragments, and talk to you of my peas and clover. As to the latter article I have great encouragement from the friendly nature of our soil. I think I have had both the last and present year as good clover from common grounds which had brought several crops of wheat and corn without ever having been manured, as I ever saw in the lots around Philadelphia. I verily believe that a field of 34. acres sowed on wheat April was twelvemonth has given me a ton to the acre at it\u2019s first cutting this spring. The stalks extended measured 3 1/2 feet long very commonly. Another field a year older, and which yielded as well the last year, has sensibly fallen off this year. My exhausted fields bring a clover not high enough for hay, but I hope to make seed from it. Such as these however I shall hereafter put into peas  in the broadcast, proposing that one of my sowings of wheat shall be after two years of clover, and the other after 2. years of peas. I am trying the white boiling pea of Europe (the Albany pea) this year till I can get the hog pea of England which is the most productive of all. But the true winter vetch is what we want extremely. I have tried this year the Caroline drill. It is absolutely perfect. Nothing can be more simple, nor perform it\u2019s office more perfectly for a single row. I shall try to make one to sow 4. rows at a time of wheat or peas at 12. I. distance. I have one of the Scotch threshing machines nearly finished. It is copied exactly from a model Mr. Pinckney sent me, only that I have put the whole works (except the horse wheel) into a single frame moveable from one field to another on the two axles of a waggon. It will be ready in time for the harvest which is coming on, which will give it a full trial. Our wheat and rye are generally fine, and the prices talked of bid fair to indemnify us for the poor crops of the two last years.\n                    I take the liberty of putting under your cover a letter to the son of M. de la Fayette, not exactly knowing where to direct to him. With very affectionate compliments to Mrs. Washington I have the honor to be with great and sincere esteem and respect Dear Sir Your most obedt. & most humble servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0092", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Richard Stith, 20 June 1796\nFrom: Stith, Richard\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    The change of Registers and the frequent alterations and additions enacted in our Sessions of Assembly, I believe puzzles the Surveyors of Land to keep up\u2014as we have not right by Law, to a Book of each Session, I remained ignorant of part of my duty\u2014now, I hope that these works have every Requisite attending them.\n                    I have wrote the above lines lest I shou\u2019d lose your opinion of me as a Man of business: which good opinion, Sir, I am very unwilling to lose. Am Sir your affectionate hble Servant\n                        I woudnt weary you with reading a long letter of my writing.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0093", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Jonathan Williams, 20 June 1796\nFrom: Williams, Jonathan\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                        Mount Pleasant on schuylkill June 20. 1796.\n                    Some time since I conveyed to you, through the medium of Mr. Maddison, a transcript of my barometrical Journal over some of the mountains in Virginia. As the philosophical Society are about publishing another Volume, and as the Committee of selection have put my paper on the list for publication, I am extreemly desirous of receiving your answer to my last, that I may avail myself of your friendly advice whether to permit this publication or not. I found the calculated heights of these mountains to be so much below the Ideas that travellers have formed of them, that I had determined not to bring my Journal forward, but the advice of such Friends as Dr. Rittenhouse and Mr. Patterson, overcame my scruples; and I was much encouraged by a passage in your Notes on Virginia, page 18, where you suppose the highest peak of Otter to be about 4000 feet, \u201cfrom data, which may found a tolerable conjecture.\u201d\n                    I should be highly gratified to know what these data are, and whether, by them, my calculations are supported or not; and if at the  same time you would enrich the proposed Volume by the result of your philosophical Observations during your late retirement, the Society would be highly sensible of your remembrance of the Object of its Institution. I am with great Respect & esteem Dear sir Your obedient Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0094", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to John Breckinridge, 21 June 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Breckinridge, John\n                    I take the liberty of introducing to you Mr. Volney the celebrated traveller, author, and member of the first national assembly of France. In all these characters his name will already have been familiar to you, and his worth as well as his being a traveller will readily obtain for him your attentions and good offices. To these claims let me add my own sollicitations, and assurances that you will find on an acquaintance with him that any services you can render him will be well placed. I am happy in this and every other occasion of assuring you of the sentiments of esteem with which I am Dear Sir Your friend & servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0095", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Jean Baptiste Ducoigne, [21 June 1796]\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Ducoigne, Jean Baptiste\nJohn Baptist De Coigne\n                    This letter will be delivered you by Mr. Volney, my friend, [and a] countryman of old France. He proposes to go to your country and to be acquainted with you, because good people love to know one another. I therefore recommend him to you, and ask you to be his friend, to take ca[re of] him, and to render him all the services he needs while he is at Kaskaskia. [He] came to visit me at my own house in Virginia, where I had the pleasure of seeing you 15. years ago, when my name sake Jefferson was at his mother\u2019s breast. Now he is grown up to be a man, strong and young, and I am become old and infirm, or I should go to your country, as I have a gr[eat] friendship for our elder brothers the  Indians who first inhabited this country, and a very great one for you in particular. I wish you and them all peace and happiness, and never to be disturbed in your lands. Perhaps I may come some day yet and smoke the pipe of friendship with you and your friends. You told me your son would come to see me. I shall be very glad to recieve him here, and to be always his father and friend, for I am sure that your lessons and your example will make him always deserve it. My children too will make him very welcome and consider him as their brother, and their children and his will be always brothers and friends.\n                    Farewell my good brother. Continue to esteem me always as I shall you, and shall always be your affectionate friend", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0097", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Henri Peyroux de la Coudr\u00e8niere, 21 June 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Peyroux de la Coudr\u00e8niere, Henri\n                        Monticello in Virginia June 21. 96\n                    Retired to my estate and withdrawn from the bustle of public life I had not expected an occasion of recalling myself to your recollection. This however is furnished me by Mr. Volney whose name is already well known to you as the celebrated traveller into Egypt and Syria, author of some other very estimable publications, and a member of the first national assembly of France. These with his great personal worth and his character of a stranger will all be titles to your attentions, patronage and good offices should he pass over from the Illinois to St. Louis, as he expects. While making known to you a person of so much  worth and celebrity, it is a great gratification to me to be brought again to your memory and to repeat assurances of the high esteem and respect with which I have the honor to be Sir, Your most obedt. & most humble servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0098", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Isaac Shelby, 21 June 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Shelby, Isaac\n                    This will be delivered to you by Mr. Volney, well known in the literary world and a distinguished member of the first national assembly of France. As he proposes to take Kentuckey in his route Westward, I take the liberty of recommending him to your attentions and friendly offices. The esteem in which he is held both here and in Europe as well as his great personal merit and talents render him worthy of any services which his character as a stranger and a traveller may call for in the places where he shall pass. Your Excellency will therefore I hope pardon the liberty I take in giving him an opportunity of paying his respects to you and of solliciting your patronage of him while within your state, and accept the tribute of respect and esteem with which I have the honor to be Your Excellency\u2019s Most obedt. & most humble servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0099", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Archibald Stuart, 21 June 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Stuart, Archibald\n                    The bearer hereof is Mr. Volney the celebrated traveller and author of several works highly esteemed in Europe. His name will also have been known to you among the worthies of the first National assembly of France. As he takes Staunton in his rout Westward I take the liberty of committing him to your good offices while there. He wishes to supply himself there with a cheap horse, just sufficient to bear him to Kentuckey. If you can guide him in his researches you will oblige me and serve him also who from his merit and talents is well worthy of your care of him. I am with great and sincere esteem Dr. Sir Your friend & servt.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0100", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Tench Coxe, 22 June 1796\nFrom: Coxe, Tench\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    I have in my possession one of your letters inclosed to me on the 12th. instant, the other has been sent to Mr. Monroe. I presumed them  to be duplicates. It will always give me pleasure Sir, to evince by attention to these little matters, my dispositions in regard to things of greater importance.\n                    It seems Europe is not yet to have Peace. The french have opened the Campain on the side of Italy by a small action which ended favorably, and a great one in which they have taken the Austrian Generalissimo and 8000 prisoners, with further losses to the combined powers. It is probable the regeneration of Genoa will be the consequence, and troubles in Sardinia, Naples, and other parts of Italy, as also in Corsica. The Turks too will feel encouragement from this victory, and the dispositions to peace in the German Councils cannot fail to be increased. Money from England to the Italian and German powers will again be wanted and she is really not in a political or commercial condition to meet new demands. The disturbances of Europe, and her Colonies increase and multiply. Our chances of inconvenience are therefore continued; and if old causes of apprehension are diminished some new ones appear. Tis certain, that the french seem disposed to be less careful about inconveniencies to us from their measures against their principal Enemy, and that some bad leaves are in their hands from the book of precedent. Something has gone wrong in the Algerine affair, but as I know Nothing but from the acts of our Government, as published in the Gazettes, I am unable to say what it is, how it might have been prevented, or how it may be remedied.\n                    I do not think we shall be involved in a rupture with any power, but I fear that we shall suffer considerable injury in 1796. The benefits resulting from some circumstances of the day may enable us to bear them, but many individual Sacrifices seem highly probable, in cases of property. In regard to political relations it seems to me pretty certain, that the US. will not have any power in a disposition effectually favorable towards them. I think a state of things rather better might have been accomplished, and might perhaps yet; but I do not perceive any ground to expect that we shall really put things into a more agreeable train. Being very retired in the Bosom of a large family and really, as to great public affairs, Spectator tantum, I may not be correct, but such are my impressions. With respectful consideration, I am, Sir Yr. mo. obedt. & humble Servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0101", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Charles Willson Peale, 22 June 1796\nFrom: Peale, Charles Willson\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    The first object of my Life is the inrichment of my Museum, In this view, I mean to continue my labours of preserving Duplicates of American Subjects for the purpose of exchanging them for those of other Countries, altho\u2019 I have been rather unfortunate in an attempt of this kind with Sweden\u2014It is 6 years since I sent, by the recommendation of my friend Dr. Collin, some preserved Birds: This was repeated for 4 years but not a Single return has been made and I believe the Doctor is much hurt by this Negligence of his Countrymen.\n                    I have it in my power to make an exchange of Animals generally\u2014of Minerals a small number\u2014but as to Vegetables I have not had time to pay much attention to them as yet; however by the help of Mr. Bartram and some others of my acquaintance in that line, The subjects wished for may be obtained. My third Son having the Talents of preserving the various Subjects of the Animal Kingdom, affords me considerable aid\u2014from which I flatter myself that a reciprocal exchange will be made on our part.\n                    I shall be happy if by my labours I can give Satisfaction where you are pleased to recommend me and accept my thanks for your obliging attention to the Interests of the Museum. I am with much respect and esteem Your friend", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "06-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0103", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Archibald Stuart, 29 June 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Stuart, Archibald\n                    The very contracted state of my acquaintance in my own country after so long an absence, and the general interest which prompts us to present strangers of distinction passing through it to the best men of our country, render me troublesome to you. The bearer hereof is the Duke de Liancourt of one of the most distinguished families of France, and of the wealthiest, till the events of his country deprived him of whatever could be lost. He retains nothing but an uncommon portion of worth and good sense. He was President of the national assembly in it\u2019s earliest stage. As he is anxious to know something of the circumstances of our country as he passes thro\u2019 it, I take the liberty of presenting him to you, for the benefit of any information he might wish to recieve relative to your part of it. He proposes to stay at Staunton one evening only. I am with great and constant esteem Dear Sir Your friend & servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0104", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to David Rittenhouse, 3 July 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Rittenhouse, David\n                    The inclosed letter has been misdirected to me. The services therein offered are for the Philosophical society and I therefore think it my duty, by a transmission of the letter to you, to put it in their power to avail themselves of them if they find occasion.\n                    I think it proper to mention to you shortly at this moment a discovery in animal history of which I hope ere long to be enabled to give to the society a fuller account. Some makers of saltpetre, in digging up the floor of one of those caves beyond the blue ridge, with which you know the limestone country abounds, found some of the bones of an animal of the family of the lion, tyger, panther &c. but as preeminent over the lion in size as the Mammoth is over the elephant. I have now in my possession the principal bones of a leg, the claws, and other phalanges, and hope soon to recieve some others, as I have taken measures for obtaining what are not already lost or may still be found. One of the claw bones in my possession, without it\u2019s horny fang, measures 7. inches long, and a larger one was found and has been lost. This phalange in the lion is  under 2. inches, in length. It\u2019s bulk entitles it to give to our animal the name of the Great-claw, or Megalonyx. The leg bone does not indicate so vast an excess of size, over that of the lion, perhaps not more than a double or treble mass. But of this we shall be better able to judge when a fuller collection of the bones shall be made. The whole of them shall be deposited with the society. I am with very great esteem & respect Dr. Sir Your sincere friend & servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-03-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0105", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Jonathan Williams, 3 July 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Williams, Jonathan\n                    I take shame to myself for having so long left unanswered your valuable favor on the subject of the mountains. But in truth I am become lazy as to every thing except agriculture. The preparations for harvest, and the length of the harvest itself which is not yet finished, would have excused the delay however at all times and under all dispositions. I examined with great satisfaction your barometrical estimate of the heights of our mountains, and with the more as they corroborated conjectures on this subject which I had made before. My estimates had made them a little higher than yours (I speak of the blue ridge.) Measuring with a very nice instrument the angle subtended vertically by the highest mountain of the Blue ridge opposite to my own house from a distance of about 18. miles South westward I made the height about 2000. f. as well as I remember, for I can no longer find the notes I made. You make the South Side of the mountain near Rockfish gap 1722. f. above Woods\u2019s. You make the other side of the mountain 767 f. Mr. Thomas Lewis deceased an accurate man, with a good quadrant made the North side of the highest mountain opposite my house something more (I think) than 1000. f. but the mountain estimated by him and myself is probably higher than that next Rockfish gap. I do not remember from what principles I estimated the peeks of Otter at 4000. f. But some late observations of judge Tucker\u2019s coincided very nearly with my estimate. Your measures confirm another opinion of mine that the blue ridge on it\u2019s South side is the highest ridge in our country compared with it\u2019s  base. I think your observations on these mountains well worthy of being published, and hope you will not scruple to let them be communicated to the world.\u2014You wish me to present to the Philosophical society the result of my philosophical researches since my retirement. But my good Sir I have made researches into nothing but what is connected with agriculture. In this way I have a little matter to communicate, and will do it ere long. It is the form of a Mouldboard of least resistance. I had some years ago concieved the principles of it, and I explained them to Mr. Rittenhouse. I have since reduced the thing to practice and have reason to believe the theory fully confirmed. I only wish for one of those instruments used in England for measuring the force exerted in the draught of different ploughs &c. that I might compare the resistance of my mould board with that of others. But these instruments are not to be had here. In a letter of this date to Mr. Rittenhouse I mention a discovery in animal history very signal indeed, of which I shall lay before the society the best account I can, as soon as I shall have recieved some other materials which are collecting for me.\u2014I have seen with extreme indignation the blasphemies lately vended against the memory of the father of American philosophy. But his memory will be preserved and venerated as long as the thunders of heaven shall be heard or feared. With good wishes to all of his family and sentiments of great respect and esteem to yourself I am Dear Sir Your most obedt. & most humble servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0106", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to J. P. P. Derieux, [4 July 1796?]\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Derieux, Justin Pierre Plumard\n                    [\u2026] after [\u2026] Loss by fire you [\u2026] I procured 2. bed ticks, 3 pair sheets, and 6. blankets to ask your acceptance of towards replacing those you had lost. They were made up in a bale, and are now at Colo. Bell\u2019s who will forward them to you, or keep them till you pass on to Staunton as you shall direct. With my best respects to Mme. Derieux, I am Dear Sir Your friend & servt\n                        P.S. I was so pleased with the egg-plants brought by Peter, and his dressing them according to the directions you were so good as to give, that I must ask some seed, and advice how to cultivate them.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-06-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0107", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from George Washington, 6 July 1796\nFrom: Washington, George\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    When I inform you, that your letter of the 19th. Ulto. went to Philadelphia and returned to this place, before it was received by me; it will be admitted, I am persuaded, as an apology for my not having acknowledged the receipt of it sooner.\n                    If I had entertained any suspicions before, that the queries Which have been published in Bache\u2019s Paper proceeded from you, the assurances you have given of the contrary, would have removed them; but the truth is, I harboured none. I am at no loss to conjecture from what  source they flowed; through what channel they were conveyed; and for what purpose they, and similar publications, appear. They were known to be in the hands of Mr. Parker, in the early part of the last Session of Congress; They were shewn about by Mr. Giles during the Cession\u2014and they made their public exhibition about the close of it.\n                    Percieving, and probably hearing, that no abuse in the Gazettes would induce me to take notice of anonymous publications, against me; those who were disposed to do me such friendly offices, have embraced without restraint every opportunity to weaken the confidence of the People\u2014and by having the whole game in their hands they have scrupled not to publish things that do not, as well as those which do exist; and to mutilate the latter, so as to make them subserve the purposes which they have in view.\n                    As you have mentioned the subject yourself, it would not be frank, candid, or friendly to conceal, that your conduct has been represented as derogating from that opinion I had conceived you entertained of me. That to your particular friends and connexions, you have described, and they have announced me, as a person under a dangerous influence; and that, if I would listen more to some other opinions all would be well. My answer invariably has been, that I had never discovered any thing in the conduct of Mr. Jefferson to raise suspicions, in my mind, of his insincerity; that if he would retrace my public conduct while he was in the Administration, abundant proofs would occur to him, that truth and right decisions, were the sole objects of my pursuit; that there were as many instances within his own knowledge of my having decided against, as in favor of the opinions of the person evidently alluded to; and moreover, that I was no believer in the infallibility of the politics, or measures of any man living. In short, that I was no party man myself, and the first wish of my heart was, if parties did exist, to reconcile them.\n                    To this I may add, and very truly, that, until within the last year or two, I had no conception that Parties Would, or even could go, the length I have been Witness to; nor did I believe until lately, that it was within the bounds of probability\u2014hardly within that of possibility, that while I was using my utmost exertions to establish a national character of our own, independent, as far as our obligations, and justice would permit, of every nation of the earth; and wished, by steering a steady course, to preserve this Country from the horrors of a desolating war, that I should be accused of being the enemy of one Nation, and subject to the influence of another; and to prove it, that every act of my Administration would be tortured, and the grossest, and most insiduous misrepresentations of them be made (by giving one side only of a subject, and that too in such exagerated, and indecent terms as could scarcely be  applied to a Nero; a notorious defaulter; or even to a common pickpocket). But enough of this; I have already gone farther in the expression of my feelings, than I intended.\n                    The particulars of the case you mention (relative to the Little Sarah) is a good deal out of my recollection at present; and I have no public papers here to resort to. When I get back to Philadelphia (which, unless I am called there by something new, will not be \u2019till towards the last of August) I will examine my files.\n                    It must be pleasing to a Cultivator, to possess land which will yield Clover kindly; for it is certainly a great Desiderata in Husbandry. My Soil, without very good dressings, does not produce it well: owing, I believe, to its stiffness; hardness at bottom; and retention of Water. A farmer, in my opinion, need never despair of raising Wheat to advantage, upon a Clover lay; with a single ploughing, agreeably to the Norfolk and Suffolk practice. By a misconception of my Manager last year, a field at one of my Farms which I intended should have been fallowed for Wheat, went untouched. Unwilling to have my crop of Wheat at that place so much reduced, as would have been occasioned by this omission, I directed, as soon as I returned from Philadelphia (about the middle of September) another field, not in the usual rotation, which had lain out two years, and well covered with mixed grasses, principally white clover, to be turned over with a good Bar-share; and the Wheat to be sown, and harrowed in at the tail of the Plough. It was done so accordingly, and was, by odds, the best Wheat I made this year. It exhibits an unequivocal proof to my Mind, of the great advantage of a Clover lay, for Wheat. Our Crops of this article, hereabouts, are more or less injured by what some call the Rot\u2014others the Scab; occasioned, I believe, by high wind and beating rain when the grain is in blossom, and before the Farina has performed its duties.\n                    Desirous of trying the field Peas of England, and the Winter Vetch, I sent last fall to Mr. Murray of Liverpool for eight bushels of each sort. Of the Peas he sent me two kinds (a white and dark, but not having his letter by me, I am unable to give the names). They did not arrive until the latter end of April, when they ought to have been in the ground the beginning of March. They were sown however, but will yield no Seed; of course the experiment I intended to make, is lost. The Vetch is yet on hand for Autumn Seeding. That the Albany Peas will grow well with us, I know from my own experience: but they are subject to the same bug which perforates, and injures the Garden Peas, and which will do the same, I fear, to the imported Peas, of any sort, from England, in this climate, from the heat of it.\n                    I do not know what is meant by, or to what uses the Caroline drill is  applied. How does your Chicorium prosper? Four years since, I exterminated, all the Plants raised from Seed sent me by Mr. Young, and to get into it again, the Seed I purchased in Philadelphia last Winter, and what has been sent me by Mr. Murray this Spring, has cost me upwards of twelve pounds Sterling. This, it may be observed, is a left handed way to make money; but the first was occasioned by the manager I then had, who pretended to know it well in England, and pronounced it a noxious weed; the restoration of it, is indebted to Mr. Strickland and others (besides Mr. Young) who speak of it in exalted terms. I sowed mine broad-cast, some with, and some without grain. It has come up well, but there seems to be a serious struggle between it and the grass and weeds; the issue of which (as I can afford no relief to the former) is doubtful at present, and may be useful to know.\n                    If you can bring a moveable threshing Machine, constructed upon simple principles to perfection, it will be among the most valuable institutions in this Country; for nothing is more wanting, and to be wished for on our farms. Mrs. Washington begs you to accept her best wishes\u2014and with very great esteem and regard I am\u2014Dear Sir Your obedient Hble Servt.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0108", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Madame de Chastellux, 10 July 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Chastellux, Marie Jos\u00e9phine Charlotte Brigitte Plunkett, Marquise de\n                    The letters of May 26. and Sep. 7. with which you honored me found me retired from business altogether and at a very great distance from the seat of government. I immediately forwarded to the President that which was directed to him, and I consulted with some of my friends who were in Congress to know whether that body had in any instance undertaken to provide for or assist any of the officers of the French army which had served in America. They assured me they had not, that in one case they had made some advances for the family of one of those officers (the Count de Grasse) who had taken refuge here in distress, but that they had grounded that on circumstances peculiar to the case,  and excluding the general principle: that it was a prevalent opinion among them that they were not authorized to make a general provision by the words of the constitution which in the raising and applying money restrains them to very special purposes. As, from the circumstances of the revolution of France, it seemed probable that some of those officers, who had withdrawn to this country, might apply to Congress for aid, I desired my friends to attend to the case of y[our] son, and if any example of affording aid in a similar case sh[ould] take place, to notify it to me and I would put in a petition [in his na]me so as to give him the benefit of it. I have waited thr[ough] the whole session of Congress, and at it\u2019s close have repeated my enquiries and been assured that Congress have in no instance given reason to believe that they could be induced to take on themselves to give any aid whatever in these cases; that on the contrary they would certainly refuse it. Under these assurances I thought it most adviseable to offer no petition on the subject. It would have given me great pleasure to have been able to obtain for the family of my deceased friend, General Chastellux, the aids which unexpected events have occasioned them to want. But I have not been fortunate enough to succeed in my wishes. I had for him a very sincere esteem, which had commenced with our acquaintance here and had grown under a very intimate intercourse with him in France. His loss was one of the events which the most sensibly afflicted me while there: and his memory continues very dear to me. To this permit me to add that in the shorter acquaintance which I had had occasion to contract with you, I had observed in you those respectable qualities and dispositions which would have furnished new motives for any services I could render. Should any circumstance occur hereafter which may give me a better prospect of being useful to the family of my friend I will certainly avail myself of it, and give to you every proof of the sincerity of my affections to him and of the sentiments of attachment and respect with which I have the honor to be Madam Your most obedt & most humble servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0110", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to James Monroe, 10 July 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Monroe, James\n                    Your brother recieved a letter from you a few days since in which he says you mention having recieved but two from me since you left us. I have not been a very troublesome correspondent to you, I acknolege, but have written letters of the following dates to you, to wit 1794. Mar. 11. Apr. 24.\u20141795. May 26. Sep. 6.\u20141796. June 12. In this last I acknoleged the reciept of yours of Nov. 18. and mentioned that your plan was not yet come to hand, which with the difficulty and expence of getting laborers at this season would prevent beginning your works till the new year. I have been in daily expectation of hearing of the arrival of Mr. Short, having no news from him since his leaving Madrid for Paris. I am often asked when you will return. My answer is When Eliza is 14. years old. Longer than that you will be too wise to stay. Till then I presume you will retain a post which the public good requires to be filled by a republican. I put under your cover some letters from M. de Liancourt. I wish the present government could permit his return. He is an honest man, sincerely attached to his country, zealous against it\u2019s enemies, and very desirous of being permitted to live retired in the bosom of his family. My sincere affection for his connections at Rocheguyon, and most especially for Madame D\u2019Anville would render it a peculiar felicity to me to be any ways instrumental in having him restored to them. I have no means however unless you can interpose without giving offence. If you can, I should be much pleased. The campaign of Congress is closed. Tho\u2019 the Anglomen have in the end got their treaty through, and so far, have triumphed over the cause of republicanism, yet it has been to them a dear bought victory. It has given the most radical shock to their party which it has ever recieved: and there is no doubt they would be glad to be replaced on the ground they possessed the instant before Jay\u2019s nomination extraordinary. They see that nothing can support them but the colossus of the President\u2019s merits with the people, and the moment he retires, that his successor, if a Monocrat, will be overborne by the republican sense of his constituents, if a republican, he will of course give fair play to that sense, and lead things into the channel of harmony between the governors and governed. In the mean time, patience.\u2014Among your neighbors there is nothing new. Mr. Rittenhouse is lately dead. Governor Brooke has lost his lady. We have had the finest harvest ever known in this part of the country. Both the quantity and quality of our wheat are extraordinary. We got 15/ a bushel for the last crop, and hope two thirds of that at least for the present one.\u2014Most assiduous court is paid to P.H. He has been offered  every thing which they knew he would not accept. Some impression is thought to be made, but we do not believe it is radical. If they thought they could count upon him they would run him for their V.P. their first object being to produce a schism in this state. As it is they will run Mr. Pinckney, in which they regard his Southern position rather than his principles. Mr. J. and his advocate Camillus are compleatly treaty-foundered. We all join in love to Mrs. Monroe and Eliza, and accept for yourself assurances of sincere and affectionate friendship. Adieu.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0111", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from La Rochefoucauld-Liancourt, 11 July 179[6]\nFrom: La Rochefoucauld-Liancourt, Fran\u00e7ois Alexandre Fr\u00e9d\u00e9ric, Duc de\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Je ne veux pas m\u2019eloigner de la Virginie, Monsieur, Sans vous remercier encor de votre obligeante reception. Les deux Lettres que vous av\u00e9s eu la bont\u00e9 de me donner ne m\u2019ont ete malheureusement d\u2019aucun usage. Mr. Steward etoit parti de Stanton avec Mr. de Volney. Et Mr. Hofman maitre du cabaret de Strasbourg m\u2019a dit que le Clel. Hite n\u2019etoit pas a Sa campagne, mais a une autre habitation beaucoup plus distante, et Sans famille. Quelque contrariete que j\u2019aye eprouv\u00e9 de ne pas voir un homme instruit a fond de cette partie du pays j\u2019ay cru devoir de pas l\u2019aller troubler dans Ses affaires. Je vous aurois renvoye vos deux Lettres Si le papier n\u2019eut pas ete trop gros, et comme je pense qu\u2019elles ne contenoient que des choses Obligeantes pour moi, Je les ay brul\u00e9. Les papiers publics vous auront apris le Succ\u00e8s des arm\u00e9es francoises en italie. Puissent elles en avoir de pareils dans Les West Indies. Permettes moy de presenter mon respectueux homage a Mrs. Randolph et Miss Maria et de me dire avec l\u2019estime et la consideration qui vous sont dues Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0113", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from John Stuart, 13 July 1796\nFrom: Stuart, John\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Your letter of 26th. May came to hand; and agreeable to your request I have sent you some more of the bones of the animal formerly sent, which is all could be procured, the most curious being taken away when they were first discovered, these I now send I took from the Cave myself, a gentleman from New York who was here accidenttly on business accompanyed me, we found one of the bones of the claw about Two Inches long which Mr. Hopkins took with him, if it was of the same animal of that I sent you, it must be the small claw that sticks to the leg above the foot; however the long bone I now send will enable you to Judge whether it is of the same animal or one of less size and as this appears to be the hind leg, and that you have of the foreleg, you can the better Judge his size, I was in some hopes the Head bones or teeth might be found, but so many large rocks are fallen from the Top of the cave these bones may ly covered. I have never heared of any bones of this kind being found any where before; but an account I had from two persons in the year 1769 when I first came to this Country (then inhabited only by a few Hunters) induces me to think such a Creature yet exists. The account I had as follows, and to which you will give what credit you may Judge it deserves.\n                    George Wilson, and John Davis, informed they were lying on cheat River some time in the year 1765 in the nightime something approached their Camp with astonishing roaring and very much allarmed them, their dogs also srunk and lay down at their feet refuseing to bark, as it drew nerer its cry became in their Opinion as loud as thunder, and  the Stomping seemed to make the ground shake, the darkness of the night prevented their seeing their enemy tho they stood long with their arms to defend themselves, they hoped to see its tracks in the morning, but in this they were disappointed, not a sign was to be found; Wilson gave me this account here; and Davis some years after in Kentuckey where he now lives. The former who was Lieut. Colo. to McCays Pennsylvania Regmt. died in New York in the late British War. Should you think proper to lay any farther commands on me they will be received with pleasure. I have the Honor to be your Obd. Humble Sevt.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-18-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0116", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Philip Turpin, 18 July 1796\nFrom: Turpin, Philip\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    The fact I mention\u2019d to you relative to the Lion, is to be found in the Gent. & London Magazine for the Year 1783. It is an extract from a Work entitled Abr\u00e9g\u00e9 de l\u2019Histoire g\u00e9n\u00e9rale des Voyages, M. de la Harpe, de l\u2019Acad\u00e9mie fran\u00e7aise.\n                    \u2018One resource of the Moors, when persued by the lion, is to take their Turban, and to move it before him in the shape of a Serpent. This sight is sufficient to compel him to accelerate his retreat. As it often happens that these people, when hunting, meet with lions, it is very remarkable, that their Horses, \u2018though famous for their swiftness, are seiz\u2019d with so strong a terror, that they become motionless, and that the Dogs, not less timid, keep creeping at the feet of their master, or of his horse. The only expedient left to the Moors, is to alight, and to abandon a prey which they cannot defend. But if the Lion be too near, and they have not time to light a fire, the only means of terrifying him, they have no other resource than to lie down on the ground in a deep silence. The Lion, then, if not tormented by hunger, passes gravely on, as if satisfied with the respect thus paid to his presence.\u2019\n                    The Author mentions several other curious Circumstances relative to this Animal which are rather too lengthy to transcribe.\n                    I feel myself much interested in your success in recovering some other remains of the Megalonex. It must be consider\u2019d as a circumstance extremely fortunate for the lovers of natural history, that these curious bones should have fallen into the hands of a Person who knew something of their value, and that he should have transmitted them to one who is both able and willing to give an Account of them to the Public. Before you part with these curiosities, would it not be advisable to have a few castings of the claws in Lead or pewter?\n                    I shall lodge the petrified Bone in my possession, with Mr. Johnson in Richmond, and get him to forward it to you by the first Opportunity.\n                    As nothing relative to natural history can be uninteresting to you, I beg leave to inform you that about a twelve-month ago, an uncommon bird was caught in this neighbourhood. I did not see it myself, but was inform\u2019d by those who did, that it was milk-white, with very red Eyes; and that it was about the size of the common Robbin. It followd a plough to pick up worms, on which it was so intent, and so gentle, that it suffer\u2019d itself to be taken, and would readily eat out of the hand: it however died in the course of a few Days.\n                    My neighbour Clarke, with the confidence natural to inventors is certain that his machine will go with sufficient force to turn a manufaturing mill. He observ\u2019d (and wishes me to inform you) that the valves may be increas\u2019d to almost any size, and that the Lever may be lengthen\u2019d: and that whilst some of the valves are acted upon by the Current, the others may be made to revolve, if necessary, in still water: Further, that \u2018though the motion of the water Wheel might be slow, it would be forcible, and that it might be multiplied to the degree necessary for turning a mill. Should you wish to make a Trial of the Principle, in a saw-mill, Mr. Clarke appears dispos\u2019d to render you any assistance in his Power.\n                    Be pleas\u2019d to present my respectful compliments to Mr. Randolph, and the Ladies; also to Mrs. Bolling, Mrs. Carr and other Relations. I am with great Esteem, Dr. Sir, yr sincere Frd. & hble. Ser.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-20-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0117", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Martin, [20 July 1796]\nFrom: Martin, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Having purchased near Jamaica on this Island the Whigs of the County nominated me to a task of which I enclose you the performance\u2014it is not to a political but a Literary Character I present it, and  not that it is calculated to stand your Criticism but that it may amuse a leisure hour\u2014it was very numerously attended and had a good effect as to delivery if it fills up agreeably some of those listless Moments which even the best informed Mind cannot but feel in the Country my purpose in it will be complete.\n                    Accept it as a proof of my high respect and a trifling return for the polite attention you honour\u2019d me with upon my Arrival in Philadelphia. Most obediently & faithfully yours", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0118", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to William Alexander, 26 July 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Alexander, William\n                    The large and constant remittances of cash which I am obliged to make to Philadelphia for nailrod for the supply of my nailery, constrain me to expect short paiments for the nails I furnish. I have lately even found it necessary to require ready money instead of the three months credit I formerly gave. I have therefore taken the liberty of drawing on you for \u00a316\u201410\u20143 the amount of the nails I furnished you last September in favor of Mr. Samuel Clarke merchant of Staunton.\n                    Mr. Monroe mentioned to me your directions to him to pay me the proceeds of a suit he brought for you in this county. But the delays of the Law leave it in the power of a debtor to lead a chace of years by the help of appeals, injunctions, replevins &c. inconsistent with the necessities of regular business. I am with respect Sir Your most obedt. servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0119", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from George Wythe, 27 July 1796\nFrom: Wythe, George\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Brend tells me he will finish the binding of your books in two or three weeks. The committee appointed to collect and publish the laws relating to land property, seeing your letter, in january, to me, declined proceding in the business, for the present, in hopes the general assembly may be persuaded by the reasons which you suggested to extend the work. Will you permit me to deliver a printed copy of the letter to every member? You say you will take the trouble of procuring a copy of the mss not sent to me. Adieu affectionately.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "07-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0120", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from George Washington du Motier de Lafayette, 29 July 1796\nFrom: Lafayette, George Washington Louis Gilbert du Motier de\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Si quelque chose en Am\u00e9rique est capable d\u2019adoucir le sentiment de mes peines, et de faire renaitre dans mon ame fl\u00eatrie par le d\u00e9couragement, quelque rayon d\u2019esp\u00e9rance, c\u2019est de voir, je ne dis pas seulement, qu\u2019il est rest\u00e9 des amis \u00e0 mon pere dans le malheur, mais quels amis lui sont rest\u00e9s! Connu, ou inconnu, je n\u2019ai presque pas fait un pas sur cette terre de Libert\u00e9, sans y recueillir quelque portion de ce pr\u00e9cieux patrimoine d\u2019attachement, de bienveillance, et d\u2019amiti\u00e9, qu\u2019il m\u2019y avoit pr\u00e9par\u00e9 dans de plus heureux temps, et qui l\u2019y attend lui-m\u00eame, s\u2019il vit assez pour tromper les v\u0153ux des ennemis de son pays, au gr\u00e9 desquels il meurt trop lentement.\n                    Je connois assez bien quelles consolations peuvent arriver jusqu\u2019\u00e0 lui, et de quelle espece de Jouissances son c\u0153ur est encore capable, pour pouvoir vous assurer que c\u2019en seroit une des plus douces pour lui, de connoitre, au milieu de sa prison, et des supplices invent\u00e9s contre lui par la haine coalitionnaire, les dispositions de l\u2019Am\u00e9rique \u00e0 son \u00e9gard. Tant qu\u2019elles existeront, il lui sera impossible de croire que son \u00e9toile soit \u00e9teinte, et que le tombeau soit pour jamais ferm\u00e9 sur sa t\u00eate. Toujours il esp\u00e9rera que son temp\u00e9ramment, plus heureusement que son bras, luttera contre la tyrannie, et que sa sant\u00e9, par une heureuse obstination, ainsi que son ame, restera plus forte que ses maux. J\u2019en ai pour garant ses propres lettres, d\u00e9rob\u00e9es par l\u2019amiti\u00e9 courageuse \u00e0 la vigilance de ses gardes, et o\u00f9 respire toujours ce sentiment de r\u00e9sistance \u00e0 l\u2019oppression qui ne l\u2019a jamais abandonn\u00e9, et ce pressentiment d\u2019une d\u00e9livrance, qu\u2019il a constamment attendue de l\u2019amiti\u00e9 des Etats-unis, et des anciens complices de ce que j\u2019ai quelquefois entendu appeller, sa sainte folie pour la libert\u00e9: qu\u2019on lui a tant reproch\u00e9e, qui lui a d\u00e9ja tant co\u00fbt\u00e9, sans ce qu\u2019elle peut lui co\u00fbter encore.\n                    Quoique bien jeune moi-m\u00eame, lorsque vous \u00e9tiez en France, je me rappelle parfaitement d\u2019avoir eu souvent l\u2019honneur de vous y voir. L\u2019amiti\u00e9 qui r\u00e9gnoit entre mon pere et vous est \u00e9galement pr\u00e9sente \u00e0 ma m\u00e9moire et si j\u2019avois pu l\u2019oublier, ses lettres o\u00f9 je vois votre nom si  souvent r\u00e9p\u00e9t\u00e9t et son extr\u00eame confiance en vous aussi souvent exprim\u00e9e, m\u2019en auroient bient\u00f4t fait souvenir.\n                    Le tendre inter\u00eat que vous lui conservez et celui que vous voulez bien me t\u00e9moigner \u00e0 moi-m\u00eame, ne peuvent donc pas \u00eatre des choses nouvelles ou impr\u00e9vues pour moi: au contraire j\u2019y ai toujours compt\u00e9; et maintenant que ma m\u00e8re et mes s\u0153urs associ\u00e9es \u00e0 ses \u00e9tranges destin\u00e9es partagent le poids de ses fers, j\u2019y compte sans cesse encore; et s\u2019il \u00e9toit possible que ses malheurs, et par cons\u00e9quent les miens augmentassent encore, j\u2019y compterois chaque jour davantage.\n                    Cependant si souvent tromp\u00e9 dans l\u2019esp\u00e9rance de le voir libre, puis-je faire autre chose, que de st\u00e9riles efforts, pour remercier ses amis de n\u2019avoir pas d\u00e9sesp\u00e9r\u00e9 de sa d\u00e9livrance? Si je ne puis faire plus, au moins je h\u00e2terai, j\u2019acc\u00e9l\u00e9rerai de tous mes v\u0153ux, le jour o\u00f9, libres et r\u00e9unis enfin, nous pourrons les remercier tous, en famille. J\u2019ai l\u2019honneur d\u2019\u00eatre, avec respect, Monsieur, Votre tr\u00e8s-humble et tr\u00e8s-ob\u00e9issant serviteur,\n                        Un mal d\u2019aventure \u00e0 l\u2019index, m\u2019ayant priv\u00e9 pendant quelque tems de la facult\u00e9 d\u2019\u00e9crire, j\u2019esp\u00e8re que vous m\u2019excuserez de ne vous avoir pas r\u00e9pondu plut\u00f4t.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0122", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Benjamin Smith Barton, 1 August 1796\nFrom: Barton, Benjamin Smith\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Mrs. Rittenhouse has received the letter (dated July 3d), which was directed to her excellent husband, and our friend. It came too late to be read by him, for he died on the 26th of the preceding month, with the calmness and the fortitude of a philosopher. You, who knew him well, will regret his loss. Even his country must feel it. We have lost one of the wisest and one of the best of our men.\n                    The 4th vol. of the Transactions of our Philosophical Society is now in the press. About 150 pages are printed off. Your account of the bones lately discovered, will be very acceptable to us. It will be in time, if we receive it within the term of five or six weeks from this time.\n                    I beg you to accept of the little memoir which I send.\n                    Be so good as to let me know, to whom, in this place, I shall repay the  money which you kindly lent to me, a considerable time since. I am, Sir, with very great respect, Your humble & obedient servant, &c.\n                        Benjamin Smith Barton", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0123", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Francis Eppes, 4 August 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Eppes, Francis\n                    I recieve with great satisfaction your information that we are likely to get Cary\u2019s claim against us settled on proper terms, and hasten to give my consent to any settlement you shall make, that it may recieve no delay from me. I had hoped indeed that a greater number of instalments would have been allowed us. Even Hanson gave us seven; a number which I would not ask from Mr. Welsh; but from my personal knolege of his very indulgent disposition towards us, and that all he cares about is, not the time when he shall recieve the money, but an assurance that he shall recieve it ultimately, I am persuaded he would consent without hesitation to more than three. I should have proposed five, and think Mr. Wickham will run no risque of displeasing his principal by fixing it at that number. Still I repeat that I will execute any agreement you shall make, and will send my bonds to Mr. Wickham as soon as I am informed of the sums and times allotted to me. I will give security too by a mortgage on negroes. It will be the first mortgage I ever gave, but had rather do it than that any body else should be made responsible for me. Mr. Wickam may say what number of slaves he thinks sufficient, and I will allot all those of some particular plantation or plantations to avoid the apprehensions of any unfair selection. I hope still that the money he is suing for us from R. Randolph\u2019s estate with the \u00a31218\u201416\u20141 due from A. Cary\u2019s executors, will come in time to satisfy the bonds we shall give to Mr. Walsh.\u2014With respect to the issuing execution for this last, I am content it shall be suspended till towards the meeting of the assembly; but not till they meet, lest they should renew the replevin law. It is impossible you should not become sensible on reflection that if an execution be not shortly levied we shall lose the debt. But this we will talk over when we meet, which you give me reason to hope will be in September, and here. I would have been to see you before this, but that a journey would be dangerous for my health which I lately begin to hope  may with care be placed on a less discoraging footing. I must always except out of A. Cary\u2019s money so much as may replace what I paid Mr. Wickam for the estate. The balance only to go to him for Mr. Walsh. You did right in paying Jack \u00a365. which I will consider as part of my reimbursement from the funds of the estate.\u2014I am just finishing a threshing machine, which I hope will be at work within a week. If you come early in September it will probably be still at work at some of mine or Mr. Randolph\u2019s barns. If it were an untried thing I should not recommend it to your attention; but it\u2019s efficacy has been proved by so many years experience in G. Britain, and so generally that I do not apprehend a failure in it\u2019s performance: and it must be immensely interesting to you. Present my warm and never ceasing affections to Mrs. Eppes, and the blessings of an old man to all the young ones. To yourself every sentiment of sincere esteem and attachment from Dear Sir Your friend & servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0124", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to John Barnes, 7 August 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Barnes, John\n                    I recieved last night your favor of July 27. mentioning that Mr. Donath\u2019s arrival with my glass is hourly expected, and that you will forward it immediately. The object of the present is merely to desire it not to be forwarded, but only it\u2019s arrival made known to me, as I mean to have the sashes made and glazed with this glass in Philadelphia before it is forwarded. I thank you for your speedy attention to this enquiry and  your information. The tea and gongs are safely recieved from Capt. Swail. Nothing is now missing but the boots and half boots from Mr. Starr, the shoes having got separated from them and come to hand immediately. I am with esteem Dear Sir Your most obedt. servt\n                        P.S. It will be very important for me to know from Mr. Donath whether the glass he brings for me 18.I. square as first ordered, or 18 I. by 12 I. according to the correction of that order.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0126", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Thomas Mann Randolph, 12 August 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Randolph, Thomas Mann\n                    I received your favor from Staunton, and was happy to learn that your journey was agreeing with you. All here are well. Mr. and Mrs. D. Randolph left us the day before yesterday for the springs. Mr. Hurt yesterday, after putting our clocks into very good order. Robertson informs me he has got out about 500. bushels of wheat, and supposes himself half done. He goes on with his fallows at the same time with two ploughs and thinks the fallows and wheat treading will be finished about the same time, to wit, a fortnight hence, when all his force will be turned in to seeding. Our treading machine will be finished to day and will get to work early next week, so that by the next post I can inform you of it\u2019s success. It bids fair at present. The death of old Mrs. Alcock is the only news in our neighborhood. Another victory gained by the French in Italy over the Austrians gives hopes of a peace with the Emperor. That with Sardinia is made. So that there will remain to them only the English, whose armies in the W. Indies are dying by wholesale.\u2014I shall be anxious to hear the further effect of your journey and of the waters, as the most interesting object of all our prayers is the reestablishment of your health, of which we should all have stronger hopes if you could trust more to nature and less to medecine. With the most sincere wishes for your recovery I bid you affectionately Adieu.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0127", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from William Cocke, 17 August 1796\nFrom: Cocke, William\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                        Tennessee, Mulberry-grove August 17. 1796.\n                    By your friend, Doctor Rose, I have the pleasure to inform you, that the people of this State, of every description, express a wish that you should be the next President of the United States, and Mr. Burr, Vice President.\n                    I believe it is upwards of twenty years since I had the pleasure of seeing you; during which time, I have entertained a high respect as well for your person, as political sentiments, and shall be glad to receive a line from you, in return for which, I shall certainly give you the politics of this State, with such other information, as you may wish to have from this quarter. With respect, I am, Sir, Your real friend,", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0128", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Wilson Cary Nicholas, 19 August 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Nicholas, Wilson Cary\n                    I now inclose you the draught you desired, which I have endeavored to arrange according to the ideas you expressed, of having the entry, not thro\u2019 a principal room as in Mr. Cocke\u2019s house, but at the cross passage. The notes which accompany the draught will explain it. I will add that it would be possible to contract the plan from front to back by giving less extent in that direction to the middle rooms, and making them encroach more on the passage, which would make them oblong octagons. But it would injure their shape and sacrifice the passage.\n                    Should you part with a very good overseer I will thank you to send him to me writing very particularly his good and bad qualities. He must come before our court, as I have referred some other applicants to that epoch. I am with great esteem Dr. Sir Your friend & servt.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0130", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Archibald Stuart, 19 August 1796\nFrom: Stuart, Archibald\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Having Occasion to be in Greenbriar last month I called upon My friend Colo. John Stuart with an intention to visit the cave where the bones of the American Lion were found, If possible to procure some more of his remains.\n                    I found he had been there and procured some more bones which he promised to send you and had employed persons to Make farther search. The people who Made salt-petre at this cave gave him an account of a short part of a bone which they used as a support to one corner of their Hopper supposed to be from the thigh bone, about 18 Inches long and Split Nearly through the Centre, That the solid part of the Bone was 2 & 1/2 Inches and the hollow 1 1/4 Inches = 6 1/4 Inches in diameter. This Bone was either covered in dirt or carryed Away but as Stuart has offered a reward for it still hopes it will be recovered. I find many of these bones have been carryed through the County of Greenbriar and some into Augusta. The latter I hope to procure. From The disproportion which Appears in the bones found It has been conjectured that all of them do not belong to the Same Animal or perhaps this may be accounted for from our being ignorant of the proportion of the Animal. The following Accounts render it probable that this Animal Still exists in America. About the year 1765 George Wilson and John Davies report that they were hunting on Cheet river a branch of Monongahela, That one Night when in their Camp they heard from a great distance a tremendous Voice which became louder as it approached them untill it exceeded the loudest peals of Thunder they had ever heard. That the Animal walked round their camp untill near the Morning. That during that period they gave themselves up and expected certain destruction every moment. That Their dogs tho bold and faithful on ordinary occasions refused to bark and Could not be forced from the camp. That Before day he retired, at day break they heard his voice from a Knob on a high Mountain and in the Space of a Minute the same or a similar Voice was heard from the top of another Knob on the Same Mountain about one Mile distant from the place first mentioned. That from the Noise he Made in the night which the supposed was by  Stamping they expected to find the earth torn up in many places but to their great surprise found It was not even broken. A certain John Moorehead gave an Account similar to the Above. Moorehead and Wilson are dead, Davies is yet alive and resides in Woodford county in the State of Kentucky, and has always been reputed a man of truth. I farther add as a fact well ascertained That on a Rock on the bank of the Kanhawa the figures of many Animals most of Which are Known to be common in that Country have been carved out many years ago and among These that of the Lion and that from the rudeness of the execution it is clearly a work of the Natives. The bones we have been speaking of cannot be the bones of the Animal heard in the year 1765. They were found some distance underground. I am sorry I did not enquire into that fact particularly. I think two or three feet were Mentioned and Many of them had the appearance of Great Antiquity. From the Circumstances attending the discovery Mr. Cavendish Made this Observation to Me \u201cThat he began to apprehend this world was much older than was generally supposed.\u201d Some of the Best deer licks in Green briar and Which were formerly frequented by Buffaloe are Contiguous to the Cave where this Animals remains Were found.\n                    Mr. Randolph when here had a Memo/ from you to enquire whether V. Miller could be prevailed upon to go over and do some work for you in Septr. I have spoken with him on the Subject and received for answer that he can by no Means attend you that he has more work on hand than he can compleat in the Season.\n                    The Executive have requested My Attention to the running of the Boundary line betwixt Virginia and Kentuckey; Upon examining I find The Act of Separation refers back to the division pointed out in the Act for establishing The County of Kentuckey. This Act is not in My possession and I do not Know that I can get it in This quarter. I must therefore beg the favor of you to lend Me yours. Mr. Monroe I expect will be oblidging enoug to bring it Over to our district Court. I once had thoughts of calling upon you on My way to New-London but lest I should find it inconvenient to do so I have made The above request. I am Dr Sir with respect and esteem your very humble sert", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0131", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Wakelin Welch, 22 August 1796\nFrom: Welch, Wakelin\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    The Death of my Father lays upon me the disagreeable Task of acquainting our Correspondents with the Event and (as his partner and Sole Executor) of Settling all his Concerns.\n                    The Multiplicity of Accounts I have to prepare will be an Apology for my Abruptness.\n                    I have inclosed your Account Current leaving a Balance due to the House of Robert Cary & Co. \u00a3132\u201417\u20148\u2014which I will thank you to acknowledge by the first opportunity and to discharge as soon as possible.\n                    The Affairs of the House will be transacted under the old Firm of Robert Cary & Co. and their office will be at No. 65 Houndsditch London. I am Sr your very humble Servant  for Robt Cary & Co", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-24-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0133", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Volney, 24 August 1796\nFrom: Volney, Constantin Fran\u00e7ois Chasseboeuf, Comte de\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Me Voici traversant Le Kentucky, sur Mon retour des deserts de L\u2019ouest\u2014qui ressemblent par trop \u00e0 ceux de syrie et surtout de Diarbekr. L\u2019echantillon de sol, de climat, de colonie fran\u00e7aise, et de tribus sauvages que j\u2019ai Vu au poste Vincennes a suffi \u00e0 Mes recherches; et les Nombreuses informations que j\u2019y ai re\u00e7u M\u2019ont prouv\u00e9 que je perdrais \u00e0 pousser jusqu\u2019au Mississipi un tems pr\u00e9cieux qu\u2019avec Moins de fatigue et plus d\u2019utilit\u00e9 je pouvais employer en une autre contr\u00e9e. J\u2019ai donc tourn\u00e9 le dos \u00e0 la Monotone et immense prairie qui S\u2019etend de L\u2019ouabache et M\u00eame de White river jusqu\u2019au Missouri, et Maintenant je dirige Ma route sur Cincinnati, et le Detroit pour descendre par le lac Eri\u00e9 \u00e0 Niagara puis par L\u2019ontario \u00e0 oswego, del\u00e0 a albani et probablement Boston. Cette direction me prive du plaisir de Vous revoir cette ann\u00e9e Mais je n\u2019ai pas le dessein de quitter L\u2019am\u00e9rique encore L\u2019an suivant, et j\u2019aurai tout le tems de Me dedommager avec plus de satisfaction pour Vous-m\u00eame puisque je pourrai Vous rendre Compte d\u2019un pays Moins \u00e0 Votre port\u00e9e.\n                    D\u00e8s Ce Moment je puis Vous assurer que Votre proc\u00e8s du Mississipi est gagn\u00e9. Les d\u00e9bordemens Se font d\u2019avril en fin de juin. On peut les distinguer en trois p\u00e9riodes: un premier flot de la part de L\u2019ohio occasionn\u00e9 par les pluyes et la fonte des Neiges \u00e0 la fin d\u2019avril. Un second flot de la part du Mississipi proprement dit, qui arrive en Mai\u2014un troisieme flot de la part du Missouri qui arrive en juin. Il en resulte une echelle de latitude pour la source de ces fleuves qui indique celle du Missouri plus au Nord ou plus \u00e9lev\u00e9e que les deux autres. Le rapport d\u2019un Voyageur am\u00e9ricain qui a Vecu chez les Indiens de Techas (ou plutot tejas) Me confirme dans L\u2019id\u00e9e que le Missouri descend  Nordouest de hautes Montagnes recul\u00e9es Vers L\u2019oc\u00e9an pacifique qu\u2019elles doivent border \u00e0 la Maniere des andes du perou. Rapidit\u00e9, froideur, Masse de liquide, prouvent elevation de sol, Neiges abondantes, et haute Masse de Sol. C\u2019est \u00e0 la hardiesse des chasseurs \u00e0 eclaircir ce probl\u00eame. Tout Me porte \u00e0 croire que le passage au Nord est un chim\u00e8re. Je pense qu\u2019avant dix ans nous saurons \u00e0 quoi Nous en tenir. Pr\u00e9sentement c\u2019est une Veritable satisfaction pour Moi de Vous assurer que Vos informations ont \u00e9t\u00e9 exactes sur L\u2019ouabache et Sur bien d\u2019autres points, et que Mr. Imlay finira par \u00eatre rang\u00e9 dans la classe des Voyageurs romanciers. J\u2019ai V\u00fb ici des personnes qui L\u2019ont connu et Savent L\u2019apprecier.\n                    J\u2019ai lieu de Me feliciter de Mes d\u00e9lais a acheter un cheval. Au Moment convenable jen ai aquis un aux rapides d\u2019ohio qui se trouve tr\u00e8s bon et \u00e0 bon March\u00e9. Il a fait Ma route D\u2019ouabache, 240 Miles en 6 jours, et fera probablement de m\u00eame les 400 Miles qui Me restent jusqu\u2019au detroit. Un Am\u00e9ricain Vient d\u2019amener 50 chevaux sauvages de st. antonio, New Mexico; et Va les Vendre en ce pays. Il se propose d\u2019en importer 500 L\u2019an prochain. Il faut lui souhaiter du succ\u00e8s Mais y compter peu. Maintenant Mon embarras est de faire passer Ma Valise a philadelphie. Si Vous trouvez quelque Moyen qui M\u00e9rite Votre confiance je Vous serais tr\u00e8s oblig\u00e9 de l\u2019y adresser. Je compte \u00eatre rendu en dece[mbre]. Je souhaite que la Saison N\u2019ait point alter\u00e9 Votre Sant\u00e9 Ni celle de Votre famille. Sur Ma route je N\u2019entends parler que de fi\u00e8vres et de Dyssenterie. L\u2019abus des fruits Verds, du lait, de la Viande b\u0153uf, des concombres cruds y contribue pour le moins autant que l\u2019air. Toute balance faite des bonnes terres, des bonnes eaux, et du Climat les bords du potomac et du haut james N\u2019ont rien \u00e0 envier \u00e0 ceux de L\u2019ohio. Il est vrai que je puis porter ici un prejug\u00e9 de Sentiment, puisque L\u2019ohio Ne Me rappelle pas les M\u00eames souvenirs que Le james et le potomack: Le livre juif a eu raison de dire: lhomme ne vit pas Seulement de pain; je Sens qu\u2019il vit aussi de la parole, et de l\u2019\u00e9change des id\u00e9es. On peut poss\u00e9der ici de Vastes terres, de Nombreux troupeaux; Mais tout cela laisse la t\u00eate bien Vuide, le c\u0153ur bien fade, et les jours bien longs. Par calcul fait, j\u2019ai plus V\u00e9cu \u00e0 Monticello dans quelques heures que je N\u2019ai Vecu dans ces contr\u00e9es en plusieurs jours. Il est donc tout simple que je pr\u00e9f\u00e8re des c\u00f4teaux, M\u00eame Maigres \u00e0 la terre d\u2019Egypte et D\u2019ohio. Agr\u00e9ez les sentimens D\u2019estime et D\u2019attachement avec lesquels j\u2019ai L\u2019honneur D\u2019\u00eatre, Votre tr\u00e8s humble serviteur", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0135", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Robert Pleasants, [27 August 1796]\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Pleasants, Robert\n                    [\u2026] the establishment of the plan of emancipation if it should precede I am not prepared to decide. If it should precede, I would refer to your consideration whether the plan you propose is adequate to the object. I apprehend that private liberalities will never be equal but to local and partial effects. I venture therefore to suggest what alone can, in my opinion, accomplish the general object. Among the laws proposed in what was called the Revised code printed in 1784. was a bill entitled \u2018for the more general diffusion of knowledge.\u2019 This bill was much approved, [and] was taken from [the] bundle and printed for public consideration when it was first reported. I believe that it would now be [as] generally approved, and needs only to be brought into view again to be adopted. This might be effected by petitions from the several counties to the assembly to take that bill into consideration. Very small alterations would make it embrace the object of your paper, it\u2019s effect would be general, and the means for carrying it on would be certain and permanent. Permit me therefore to suggest to you the substitution of that as a more general and certain means of providing for the instruction of the slaves, and more desireable as they would in the course of it be mixed with those of free condition. Whether, for their happiness, it should  extend beyond those destined to be free, is questionable. Ignorance and despotism seem made for each other. I am, with perfect esteem Dear Sir Your friend & servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "08-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0137", "content": "Title: Questions on the Cow Pea, with Answers of Philip Tabb, [after 30 August 1796?]\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas,Tabb, Philip\nTo: Tabb, Philip,Jefferson, Thomas\n                            Questions relative to the\nCow-pea.\n                            1. Does dry or moist Land, rich or poor, suit it best?\n                            2. is it best in drills or broad-cast.\n                            2 hills better than either at least 4 feet distant\n                            3. how much seed is sown to the acre in the broad-cast?\n                            3 not known 2 or 3 plants enough to a hill.\n                            4. what is the time of sowing, and particularly where it is to be followed by wheat?\n                            4 from the 1st. to the 15 June, this Crop never followed by fall sowing here the growth being remarkably slow, till the latter end of Summer\n                            5 from the middle of Sept. to the last of Novemr.\n                            6. does it ripen generally together, or successively?\n                            6 successively until stopt by the frost.\n                            7. how is it gathered, by the hand, by the scythe or the sickle?\n                            7 by hand or rather by Stock turned in to fatten.\n                            8. what is it\u2019s produce according to the land and season?\n                            8 Not ascertained probably from 15 to 20 Bushels the acre if alone it is rarely planted without Corn here.\n                            9 every part is good food for stock\n                            10. is the grain given whole or ground?\n                            11. what kinds of stock does it suit?\n                            11 Horses Hoggs horned Cattle and Sheep\n                            12 it is eatable but inferior to most of its species for that purpose.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0138", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from John Carey, 1 September 1796\nFrom: Carey, John\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\nFalcon Court, Fleet Street, London.\n                    It may appear presumptuous in me to address you, since I have not been honored with any reply to a letter which I took the liberty of writing to you about April, 1795. However, as that letter did not absolutely require an answer, and as, possibly, you may have sent an answer which miscarried, possibly, on the other hand, my letter may have never reached you, I venture to trouble you with a few lines on a subject, which, in my feeble judgment at least, appears entitled to some consideration.  Not long since, I happened, in a coffee-house, to fall into conversation with a sensible, well-informed gentleman, an American, I believe, but, at least, well acquainted with American affairs, and with the characters of those who conduct them. Speaking of Genl. Washington, this gentleman mentioned his \u201cOfficial Letters,\u201d and, without knowing my connexion with them, strongly condemned the editor for having \u201csuppressed a number of the most interesting passages, and presented the public with little better than the chaff.\u201d These, as nearly as I can recollect, were his words: and this he delivered, not as his own private  opinion only, but as that of the most competent judges in America, mentioning, at the same time, some very respectable names, as coinciding with him in sentiment. I felt too deeply interested in the affair, to suffer it to pass over thus in general terms; and accordingly I endeavoured to bring him to particulars; when, to my very great surprise, he accurately repeated the substance of some very material passages which I had omitted, and pointed out, in one instance, the omission of an entire letter. I regret exceedingly that my astonishment at this extraordinary adventure deprived me of that presence of mind which might have enabled me to make some effort to discover who the gentleman was, in order the better to appreciate his opinion, and ascertain what degree of credit was due to his assertion respecting the opinions of those whose names he had quoted. But, in truth, I have ever entertained an extreme aversion to catechising strangers; and, since the casual rencontre abovementioned, I have never been able to meet with the gentleman again.  The purport, therefore, of the present letter is, to request, if it be not too high a degree of presumption to hope for such condescension on your part, that you, Sir, would be kind enough to honor me with your opinion on the subject, in order that I may not err on either side, through want or through excess of caution, in case I publish the continuation; which I wish to do as soon as I can render it convenient. Mr. Randolph, indeed, in a letter of June 23, 1795, was pleased to express himself as follows\u2014(for I apprehend no impropriety in quoting his words, as the letter appears to be in Mr. Taylor\u2019s handwriting, and wears not the slightest feature of confidential secrecy)\u2014\u201cMy opinion upon the original propriety of the publication remains as it always was, in relation to the then circumstances. I acknowledge, however, that you have rendered that publication but little if at all exceptionable in my eye. The papers which are hereafter to appear, and the matter which you have retained to yourself, are not here spoken of.\u201d This declaration, however, (as he did not then know what I had omitted) only assures me that there appeared no impropriety in what I had published, leaving me still uncertain whether the omissions were in every case proper and justifiable. But as I sent him, in November last, (in my answer to the above) a very minute list of the passages and letters omitted, with accurate references to the volume and page of the record where each might be found, it would at present be no difficult matter to determine whether I have in every instance acted properly. A hint on the subject from you, Sir, on whose judgment I place the most implicit reliance, would serve me as a guide in publishing the sequel, if I do but live to publish it. The delay, indeed, I poignantly regret, especially when I consider that we shall be inundated by such a deluge of French productions  when once this disastrous war is brought to a period, as will swallow up all the curiosity and attention of European readers, and leave them nearly as indifferent to the events of the American contest, as to the transactions of the Antediluvians or Pre-adamites; a circumstance, which must of course operate as a material drawback on any advantages that I might hope to derive from the publication, which, by the way, has not yet reimbursed my original expenditure; though I attribute this rather to the delays of payment on the part of the booksellers, than to an actual want of sale.\n                    To conclude, Sir, whether you condescend, or not, to honor me with your opinion and instructions on this subject, I hope and entreat that you will at least excuse my boldness in thus addressing you, and believe me to be (with very sincere respect, as well for your distinguished talents, as for your disinterested patriotism, and your well-known attachment to the cause of liberty, of all which, I hope your grateful country will not fail to shew a due sense on a proper occasion) Sir, Your much obliged, and most obedient humble servant,\n                        P:S: I hope, Sir, you have safely received a set of the \u201cOfficial Letters,\u201d which I desired Mr. Rice (bookseller, philadelphia) to send to you immediately on receipt of the books. As I have not heard from him since their arrival in Philadelphia, I am of course, uncertain whether the intended set ever reached your hands.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0139", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Benjamin Smith Barton, 5 September 1796\nFrom: Barton, Benjamin Smith\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Sometime since, I wrote to you, in answer to the letter which you had written to my deceased uncle, Mr. Rittenhouse. At the same time, I did myself the pleasure to send to you a copy of my memoir, concerning the fascinating faculty which has been ascribed to different species of Serpents. As these went by a private hand, I am doubtful whether you have received them. In my letter, I requested that you would inform me to whom I should pay the money, which you kindly lent to me, a considerable time since. I have now to make the same request.\n                    We are anxious to see your memoir concerning the bones which you mention to have been found in digging for nitre. I wish it could be sent soon, in which case it would be in time for the 4th vol. of the Transactions,  now in press. I do not imagine that this volume can be closed in less than four weeks from this date. We are slow in our motions. I am, Sir, with the greatest respect, your most humble and obedient servant, &c.\n                        Benjamin Smith Barton\n                        P.S. Be so kind as to make my compliments to Mr. Randolph. I have lately discovered, in the vicinity of this city, a new species of Dipus, or Jerboa. It is a very beautiful animal. I call it Dipus Americanus, in vol. 4th of the Transactions.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0140", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Sir John Sinclair, 10 September 1796\nFrom: Sinclair, Sir John\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Sir John Sinclair presents his best compliments to Mr. Jefferson. Has the honour of sending him some of the papers printed by the Board of Agriculture of which he requests his acceptance, and should be happy to receive any communications upon Agricultural Subjects, with which Mr. Jefferson may have the goodness to favour the Board.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0141", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to John Barnes, 11 September 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Barnes, John\n                    I have just recieved from Mr. Donath a letter announcing that he has brought my glass. The two inclosed letters are on that subject. Mr. Ingle was formerly a cabinetmaker. He is now I believe in some line of commerce. Not knowing his present address I take the liberty of putting his letter under your cover in hopes you will be so good as to find him out. Mr. Crosby knows him well. I am with esteem Dear Sir Your most obedt. servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-11-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0142", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Joseph Donath, 11 September 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Donath, Joseph\n                    I know not how it happened that your favor of Aug. 8. did not reach me till our last post. A letter by post generally comes in 9. days. I am extremely glad to hear of the arrival of my glass, and that it is of the size of 12. by 18. according to my second order. If you will be pleased to forward me the bill of cost, I will immediately replenish my funds with Mr. Barnes, and desire him to pay for and recieve the glass. In the mean time I shall prepare and forward directions for the sashes and glazing. I am Sir Your very humble servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0143", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from \u2014\u2014 Galvan, 21 September 1796\nFrom: Galvan, Francis\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Les \u00e9gards que l\u2019on doit au Merite et a un cytoyen comme vous, m\u2019ont fait arretter aujourd\u2019huy pour avoir L\u2019honneur de vous assurer en personne de mon profond Respect; Jay et\u00e9 malheureux en ne vous trouvant pas Chez vous ou jaurais volontiers demeurer a vous attendre, Si javais et\u00e9 maitre de m\u2019arretter aussy long tems que je l\u2019eusse D\u00e9sir\u00e9; mais mes jours de Marche Sont compt\u00e9s, et J\u2019ay des affaires dans la comt\u00e9 de Bottetourt qui me forcent a partir: permettez donc que je vous presente Les voeux les plus Sinceres pour la continuation d\u2019une vie heureuse, qui Retir\u00e9 du cahos de ces evenements incertains, ne peut que vous etre tr\u00e8s agr\u00e9able.\n                    Un de mes amis Intime, Le colonel Jesse Ewell qui habite a Dumfries o\u00f9 je fais aussy ma Residence m\u2019avait pri\u00e9 de vous faire agreer Lassurance de Son amiti\u00e9 Sincere et Ses Respectueux compliments; il est en fort Bonne Sant\u00e9, et Sera Charm\u00e9 d\u2019apprendre que vous en possedez une pareille. En vous re\u00efterant mon plus Sincere attachement Jay Lhonneur D\u2019etre Monsieur Votre tres humble & tres obt. Serviteur", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0144", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from John Garland Jefferson, 21 September 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, John Garland\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Agreeable to your request I have examined the office of Lunenburg, and find that no conveyance was executed, by your father, or rather recorded in the Court of that County, between the year 1750. and 1757. I find from the Clerk of the County, that in 1752. Halifax was taken from Lunenburg, and Bedford in the year 1754. The Clerk supposes that the land in question, lies in the County of Halifax. He recollects a search having been once made in his office, with respect to land lying on the same Creek, on which yours lies. I mean to get an acquaintance of mine to make a search in Halifax from the year 1752 to 1757. In 1754 Bedford was taken from Halifax. If you can find out whether any conveyance was made from your father to any person between the last period and the present time in Bedford you may ascertain with certainty whether any conveyance was ever made. I feel the most sensible pleasure my dear Sir, in having in this one instance complyed with a request made by you, and I shall feel still greater, if it is productive of any advantage to you. We have received information in this part of the world, that the President means to decline serving any longer as President. I rejoice at the news; because I consider him as a man dangerous to the liberties of this country. Misled himself, he lends his influence to others, and by his name gives a sanction to the most dangerous measures. For this reason I am glad he means to decline. Be pleased to give my best respects to your family, and believe me to be my dear Sir, with the most cordial esteem, Your most obt. servant", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "09-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0145", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from John Wayles Eppes, 25 September 1796\nFrom: Eppes, John Wayles\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    To avoid the difficulties, which must ever attend personal applications, on subjects important and delicate, I have adopted the present mode of addressing you. A stranger to forms, and following the impulse of my feelings, I have ventured to indulge, and express, sentiments, for a part of your family, which ought perhaps, to have received your previous sanction. Could I hope, that should time and future attentions render me agreeable, my wishes may be crowned with your approbation, I should indeed be happy. A sincere, disinterested, affection, and an anxious wish for the future happiness of your daughter, are the only grounds, (moderate as they may appear) on which I have dared to entertain a hope that her decision may be yours. With sentiments of respect and esteem I am Dr Sir yours &c", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-02-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0147", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Joseph Donath, 2 October 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Donath, Joseph\n                    Your favor of Sep. 22. came to hand two days ago, by which I observe you have laid by for me 7. boxes of 60. panes each of 12 by 18. I. glass, and 1. do. of 25. panes of 18. by 24. and wish to be informed if this was the amount of my order. My order was dated Oct. 20. 95. and was for\n                            600. panes of 18. by 12 I. consequently there will be requisite in addition to the\n                    As you mention that you are able to make up the whole order I inclose you a draught on Mr. J. Barnes for 199D. 12c. that is to say the 158.62 D. stated in your letter and 40.50 D. additional for the 180. panes deficient. Be pleased to deliver the glass to Mr. Barnes to whom I shall write on the subject.\n                    I shall have occasion for about 200. panes 12. I. square of the same quality. Will you be able to furnish of that size? I am Sir Your very humble servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-07-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0149", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from William Booker, 7 October 1796\nFrom: Booker, William\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    I Receiv.d yours of the fourth Instant by Mr. Buck. I have with pleasure Given him Every Information I am able respecting the Machine.\n                    At present I am very unwell. As soon as I should be better in healh I will make a drawing of the machine and forward it by the post to charlottesville for you.\n                    Mr. Graham told me Colo. Coles had apply.d to him and that he had promis.d him a drawing. But it has never been Since in my power to comply owing to my Indisposion and previous Engagements.\n                    I feel much Indebted to you for your offering your assistance in procureing a patent. Had you been convenient, I should have Taken the Liberty to have Call.d on you at first.\n                    I have got the assistance of some Gent. in Richmond, and have sent forward a model, at present I believe the buisiness is as forward as could be Expected if any difficulties Shoul arise by your permission I will Call on you.\n                    Having not as yet obtained a patent I cannot Say what will be my price for using the machine but Shoul.d I Succeed the price Shall be Moderate. I am, with due respect your Most Obet. an very Humble Sevt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-09-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0150", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Bushrod Washington, 9 October 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Washington, Bushrod\n                    I now inclose you the record in the case of Dickenson v. Paulett and Marks. Mr. Marks, by purchasing all Paulett\u2019s right, stands completely in his shoes. His first wish is to obtain a confirmation of his right to the land. But if Dickenson notwithstanding his prevarications and delays of paiment shall be decreed to retain still an equitable right to the land on paying the purchase money, then, as he has by no means money at his command, the best thing for Mr. Marks would be that the day given Dickinson for paying up the money should be as short as possible, and that on failure, his right should be for ever foreclosed and Marks\u2019s title confirmed. I inclose you an order on Charles Johnston & Co. for five pounds as a fee in behalf of Mr. Marks, and am Dr. Sir Your most obedt. servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0151", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from William Frederick Ast, 10 October 1796\nFrom: Ast, William Frederick\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    The Insurance having begun with those that have paid their premiums; I am therefore surprised that you have not yet sent in your declaration for assurance. By applying to your good self he will get it made out for you.\n                    A building not insured is no real property, because in a few hours it may be in ashes; you stand therefore at present in the precarious situation, that should you meet with an accident by fire, you might be a considerable loser: for a loss falls heavy upon one; but when it is divided amongst many each person\u2019s share becomes light. If the society was composed only of two, in case of a loss you would have to pay only the half, and would be better than if not insured, and as there are already better than four millions of dollars subscribed, you have of course four millions of chances to your one. We often see that individual houses burn, but the conflagration is never general: therefore all the houses in the State must be destroyed by fire, before you could lose as much as if you was at present to meet with an accident. The institution is on so liberal a footing, that I am astonished to find, that some people, should hesitate a moment to come into it; for if your neighbour\u2019s house was destroyed by fire, I am sure you would lend him your assistance to rebuild it; these are the principles of the institution; they all join to succour such of them as may be so unfortunate to lose their Buildings by fire; their contributions towards a loss are paid out of the interest of the premiums. The premiums average about three per cent. therefore we have to every hundred dollars insured three hundred cents in stock, which is immediately laid out in six per cents stock of the United States, and yields at the present prices near 7 1/2 per cent. interest, of course the premiums of each hundred dollars, insured yield 22 1/2 cents annual interest, supposing that 2 1/2 cents be absorbed by the expenses, then there remain 20 cents annual interest to each hundred dollars insured, which is one fifth per cent. of course there must out of every 500 houses annually one burn to absorb the interest, which is at the rate of 800 houses per annum in the state; and there must out of every thirty three houses one burn before you could be called upon for a second premium\u2014which would be at the rate of twelve thousand houses in the state; and as in the  course of 15 years past only about three hundred have burnt, there is no probability, that eight hundred houses should burn annually, nor that twelve thousand should burn in one year: therefore in all human probability these premiums once paid will insure the houses for ever.\n                    As the premiums, which those that insure abroad have to pay annually, average, about one per cent; there being upwards of four millions of dollars subscribed here, therefore there must losses happen annually to the amount of forty thousand dollars and befal only the present subscribers (which is not likely as they are scattered all over the state) before they would have to pay as much as if they were insured abroad\u2014and if all the state was insured abroad it would cost the people annually several millions of dollars, when by my plan we keep the money here to succour our unfortunate fellow-citizens and each person\u2019s contribution will only be a trifle.\n                    You know that all the subscribers (of which you are one) have bound themselves; and the law obliges them to insure their property; therefore if we chuse it we can compel them to come forward: however as people begin now to understand it, we get daily more declarations in, and additional subscribers, so that we need not to force, but only acquaint, the people what they may do for their own good.\n                    There is already a large sum of premiums received, by Mr. JAQUELIN AMBLER, Cashier-General, and laid out in six per cents stock of the United States, and daily more is receiving.\n                    You will please to observe, that the Buildings which stand upwards of 20 feet from others pay only, when built of brick, 1 1/2 per cent. and if of wood 2 1/2 per cent. premium: but when they are contiguous to others, or situate on [Wharves], or hazardous work carried on therein, they pay more. Health and Friendship.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0153-0002", "content": "Title: I. Certificate of William Marshall, 10 October 1796\nFrom: Marshall, William\nTo: \n                        I. Certificate of William Marshall\n                        I William Marshall Clerk of the Court of the United States for the Middle Circuit in the Virginia District do hereby Certify, that there are no suits instituted in this Court against Mr. Jefferson except in the character of an executor, which are as follow: \u201cJohn Wayles\u2019 executors\u201d Francis Eppes, Thomas Jefferson and Henry Skipwith executors of John Wayles deceased two suits, and Osgood Hanbury\u2019s Executor against the same, Given under my hand this 10th. of October 1796.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0154", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to William Cocke, 21 October 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Cocke, William\n                    The letter you were so good as to [write me of late?] came duly to hand, and I always learn with great pleasure that I am recollected with approbation by those with whom I [have served]. Our acquaintance commenced on a troubled ocean. We braved the storm like good sailors, never despairing of our [courage]. My [bark] has at length entered port less shattered than I expected, and I wish not to hazard it again. I have not the arrogance to say I would refuse the honorable office you mention to me; but I can say with truth that I had rather be thought worthy of it than to be appointed to it. [For] well I know that no man will ever bring out of that office the reputation which carries him into it. You are younger than I am and have many good years of service still due to your country. That they may be successfully employed and thankfully acknoleged is the sincere prayer of Dear Sir Your most obedt. humble servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0155", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Van Staphorst & Hubbard, 21 October 1796\nFrom: Van Staphorst & Hubbard\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    We had the pleasure the 21 May to address you on your particular affairs, in a manner that We flatter ourselves will have afforded you pleasure: since when We have received your very esteemed favor of 24 April, with the agreeable intelligence of Mr. Dohrman having settled his Account with Mr. Philip Mazzei for $3,087. 60/100 the value of which has been remitted to us by Mr. James Yard of Philadelphia, in Pragers  & Co.\u2019s draft at 90 days Sight on Widw. Levie Salomons & Sons for Hd. Cy. \u01927,719. Which when in cash will be to the credit of Mr. Ph. Mazzei, whom We have already advised of the Receipt and Acceptance of the Bill.\n                    Our former correspondence has informed you the good fate of all your different remittances for account of Mr. Mazzei, except the Bill \u00a339.17.10 1/2 on Wm. Anderson of London, which We returned to you the 27 January last, with protests for Non Acceptance and non payment. We are ever with great esteem and regard Sir! Your mo. ob. hb. servants", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-22-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0156", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to James Currie, 22 October 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Currie, James\n                    The return of Mr. Randolph\u2019s servant affords me the first opportunity of informing you that I mentioned the subject you desired to the gentleman who was to call on me. He is intelligent and close, and has his suspicions always about him. I was obliged therefore to avoid any direct proposition or question, and only prepare him by declaring my opinion in such a way as to avoid suspicion. He has my testimony of the talents of the person proposed, and so given as to weigh with him. But I have no means of conjecturing the part he may take but his acquiesence in the correspondence between the character I gave and the idea he had formed from other information. Wishing you success in all your undertakings and health and happiness I am with great esteem Dr. Sir Your friend & servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0157", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Benjamin Smith Barton, 25 October 1796\nFrom: Barton, Benjamin Smith\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Your letter has come safe to hand. I am extremely glad to learn, that a number of the bones of the newly-discovered animal have been already  discovered. I wish greatly to see your account of them. I find, by late inquiry, that the 4th vol. of the Transactions will not be published in less than two months.\n                    As you request it, I shall retain the money (sixty dollars) lent to me, for the purpose which you mention. Several things, in the literary way, have made their appearance within the last year. These I shall not fail to transmit to you, by some safe conveyance. Have you seen a posthumous work, attributed to Condorcet, on the progress of the human mind? In many respects, it has, I think, great merit. Dr. Priestley has kindly lent to me the great work of Pallas, on the languages of all nations. This will enable me to discover what resemblances actually do subsist between the American languages and those of Northern-Asia. Of this great work, I have the first and second parts (two large quartos). As the empress has sent Mr. Pallas still farther north than Petersburgh, I fear the work will never be finished. He has not given any specimens of the languages of the American nations.\n                    Some very interesting articles, which were taken out of an ancient tumulus, north of the Ohio, have been presented to the Philosophical Society. My account of, and conjectures concerning, these articles have been printed. I shall take the liberty of sending you a copy, by a safe conveyance.\n                    Mrs. Rittenhouse requests me to present her compliments to you. I am, Dear Sir, with the greatest respect, Your most obedient & most humble servant, &c.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0158", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Lyle, 25 October 1796\nFrom: Lyle, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    I imagine you will be anxious to know how matters stand between you and our Company, and may not know what sums I have received from Mr. Christopher Clark your Attorney in Bedford &c., therefore I have sent this state, which contains all the payments enterd on our books, by it you will see your first and second bonds only are fully paid up. When you examine, our method of charging the Intrest I hope you will find it right, if any thing appear not so, you will please mention it. I shall be glad to hear from you and am with Esteem Dear Sir Your mo hue servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-30-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0160", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from William Fleming, 30 October 1796\nFrom: Fleming, William\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    I herewith send you a geographical sketch of the several counties in the state of Kentucky, in which, I doubt not, there are many inaccuracies, as I had but little leisure to attend to the subject, and my means of information was often defective; especially with respect to the bearings of the different places attempted to be described. I was at eleven of their county courthouses, and at Danville, where one of their district courts is held; and what is stated from my own observation, I think, tolerably correct. This sketch will, for the present, serve to give you a general idea of the country, and when you receive a map, many of the errors may be corrected. I am, with great regard, dear sir Yr. obedt. servt:", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0162", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to John Stuart, 10 November 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Stuart, John\n                    I have to acknolege the receipt of your last favor together with the bones of the Great-claw which accompanied it. My anxiety to obtain a thigh bone is such that I defer communicating what we have to the Philosophical society in the hope of adding that bone to the collection.  We should then be able to fix the stature of the animal without going into conjecture and calculation as we should possess a whole limb from the haunch bone to the claw inclusive. Whenever you announce to me that the recovery of a thigh bone is desperate, I shall make the communication to the Philosophical society. I think it happy that this incident will make known to them a person so worthy as yourself to be taken in to their body, and without whose attention to these extraordinary remains the world might have been deprived of the knolege of them. I cannot however help believing that this animal as well as the Mammoth are still existing. The annihilation of any species of existence is so unexampled in any parts of the economy of nature which we see, that we have a right to conclude, as to the parts we do not see, that the probabilities against such annihilation are stronger than those for it. In hopes of hearing from you as soon as you can form a conclusion satisfactory to yourself that the thigh bone will, or will not, be recovered, I remain with great respect & esteem Dr. Sir Your most obedt servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-13-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0163", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to John Barnes, 13 November 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Barnes, John\n                    Your two favors of Sep. 25. and Oct. 15. are duly recieved. It will be proper to have the sashes painted on the outside. Within a fortnight from this time it will be determined whether the walls of my house can be finished this autumn, and consequently whether I shall have occasion to call for any more sashes (other than those before called for) before next spring. I shall then furnish you with money for sashes and glass according to the extent of the call.\n                    Mr. Peter Lott, a merchant of Charlottesville, chiefly in the grocery line, wanting a correspondent in Philadelphia to make his purchases there on commission on whose attention he can rely, I have recommended yourself to him, as I do him to you. He is the brother of the Lott late partner of Higbee in Philadelphia, who on his death left this gentleman his capital. He is industrious, oeconomical and of the purest integrity, and as his is a ready money business, the connection is a sure one. You cannot have a correspondent on whom you may more fully rely. He  leaves his former one because he has not found him sufficiently punctual in his advices or the execution of his orders. I am with great esteem Dear Sir Your friend & servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0164", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from William Booker, 17 November 1796\nFrom: Booker, William\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Inclosed is a drawing of the threshing Machine I promised you by Mr. Buck. I hope your Liberallity will Excuse me, for the delay.\n                    My Situation has been Such as rendered it almost Impossible with any Tolarable Convenience to have done it Sooner.\n                    I have been but Little used to drawing. What blunders you See I trust you will Excuse. I hope however with it and the Information you got by Mr. Buck will be Sufficient to Shew you the principle after which I have no doubt you will Greatly Improve on it.\n                    I am Confident, it will suit this Country much better than Cog and rounds it being more Simple Less Expensive, and I think fully as opperative. I am with due Respt. your &c&c", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0165", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Jean Armand Tronchin, 17 November 1796\nFrom: Tronchin-Labat, Jean Armand\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                        [La]vigny, par Rolle, Canton de Berne. le 17e. 9bre. 1796.\n                    Le vif int\u00e9r\u00eat que je prens \u00e0 un ami, victime des \u00e9v\u00e9nemens qui ont entrain\u00e9s la ruine de ma malheureuse Patrie, me fait prendre la libert\u00e9, Monsieur, de recourrir aux sentimens d\u2019amiti\u00e9 dont vous m\u2019hon[oriez] pendant n\u00f4tre s\u00e9jour \u00e0 Paris, pour tacher, au [moyen?] des lumi\u00e8res que je vous demande dans le M[\u00e9moire] cy joint, de sauver \u00e0 cet ami le reste de sa fo[rtune qu\u2019un] D\u00e9biteur de mauvaise foy lui a enlev\u00e9 par sa res[idence aux] Etats Unis, o\u00f9 il a port\u00e9 des sommes consid\u00e9rable[s qui] appartiennent l\u00e9gitimement \u00e0 ses malheureux Cr[\u00e9anciers]. Tel est au moins le cri public et celui des gens instruits des affaires de ce D\u00e9biteur.\n                    N\u2019\u00e9tant m\u00fb que par l\u2019int\u00e9r\u00eat de mon ami, c\u2019est \u00e0 celui l\u00e0 seul que je  m\u2019attache. Il r\u00e9clame environ Trente quatre Mille Livres de France, esp\u00e8ces m\u00e9talliques. [Cette?] somme est minime, mais elle est consid\u00e9rable pour [le chef?] d\u2019une nombreuse et respectable famille, qui de l\u2019opulence est tomb\u00e9 dans un \u00e9tat qui approche de la mis\u00e9re sans qu\u2019il y ait aucunement de sa faute.\n                    Tous ces motifs sont bien puissans sur votre coeur, Monsieur, dont je connois la sensibilit\u00e9 et la justice; et seront la meilleure excuse que je puisse vous pr\u00e9senter de l\u2019embarras que je prens la libert\u00e9 de vous donner.\n                    Cette occasion m\u2019est bien pr\u00e9cieuse, puisque je m\u2019en promets le double avantage de rendre service \u00e0 mon ami et d\u2019avoir des nouvelles de votre sant\u00e9 \u00e0 la quelle je prens Pint\u00e9r\u00eat le plus vif. J\u2019ay l\u2019honneur d\u2019\u00eatre avec les sentimens de la plus haute consid\u00e9ration et de l\u2019attachement le plus inviolable. Monsieur, Votre tr\u00e8s humble et tr\u00e8s Obeissant serviteur.\ncy devant Ministre de la\nR\u00e9publique de Gen\u00e8ve \u00e0 la\nCour de france", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "10-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0166", "content": "Title: Enclosure: Tronchin\u2019s Memorandum on Recovering Foreign Debts in America, [17 October 1796]\nFrom: Tronchin-Labat, Jean Armand\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Quelques personnes, sans doute mal instruites, affectent de croire qu\u2019un D\u00e9biteur qui a fui d\u2019Europe en emportant avec lui les biens de ses cr\u00e9anciers, s\u2019il a choisi son azile dans les Etats Unis d\u2019Am\u00e9rique, ne sauroit y \u00eatre poursuivi, ni oblig\u00e9 \u00e0 restitution: Ou ce qui revient au m\u00eame, que les Tribunaux d\u2019Am\u00e9rique se refuseroient \u00e0 mettre \u00e0 ex\u00e9cution des Jugemens rendus en Europe contre ce D\u00e9biteur frauduleux, lors m\u00eame qu\u2019on produiroit aux Juges d\u2019Am\u00e9rique des Titres par\u00e9s qui excluroient aucun doute sur la certitude de la dette et l\u2019autorit\u00e9 des Juges d\u2019Europe qui ont prononc\u00e9 sur le titre qui la fonde; comme un protest s\u2019il s\u2019agit d\u2019une lettre de change, et la [dite] prononciation du Juge qui s\u2019en est ensuivie. Tous [ces] Actes d\u00fcement vidim\u00e9s et l\u00e9galis\u00e9s.\n                    D\u2019apr\u00e8s cet expos\u00e9, on prend la libert\u00e9 de deman[der:]\n                    Si ce n\u2019est pas sur une erreur, injurieuse au Gouvern[ement] Am\u00e9ricain, qu\u2019est fond\u00e9e l\u2019\u00e9trange assertion qu\u2019un D\u00e9biteur Europ\u00e9en, r\u00e9fugi\u00e9 en Am\u00e9rique, peut y jou\u00efr tranquillement de la fortune de ses cr\u00e9anciers l\u00e9gitimes d\u2019Europe; et qu\u2019il n\u2019y a aucun moyen de le poursuivre tant qu\u2019il [res]tera dans cet azile.\n                    Si le contraire \u00e9xiste, ainsi que le bon sens, la justice et l\u2019avantage des r\u00e9lations commerciales entre tous les Etats, le persuadent \u00e0 ceux qui connoissent la loyaut\u00e9 et les sages loix qui gouvernent les Etats Unis. On demande si pour entamer une action en Amerique, il faut envoyer les Titres originaux (expos\u00e9s \u00e0 se perdre par un long trajet) ou si des copies d\u00fcement vidim\u00e9es et l\u00e9galis\u00e9es ne les remplaceroient pas; et par qui et comment elles doivent l\u2019\u00eatre?\n                    Si ces pi\u00e8ces n\u2019acquerroient pas tout le degr\u00e9 d\u2019authenticit\u00e9 convenable par la l\u00e9galisation du Ministre de france R\u00e9sident \u00e0 Gen\u00e8ve; la Signature de ce Ministre, l\u00e9galis\u00e9e par celui des R\u00e9lations Ext\u00e9rieures du Gouvernement Fran\u00e7ois; et enfin cette signature l\u00e9galis\u00e9e par le Ministre des Etats Unis d\u2019Am\u00e9rique R\u00e9sident \u00e0 Paris.\n                    On demande encore, de quelle mani\u00e9re l\u2019on doit constituer un Procureur pour agir contre le D\u00e9biteur fugitif; et si l\u2019on ne pourroit pas traiter avec ce Procureur \u00e0 tant pour cent du capital que ses poursuites arracheroit au D\u00e9biteur: question que l\u2019on fait pour \u00e9viter des r\u00e9p\u00e9titions de fraix dont on ne sauroit pr\u00e9sumer la valeur et qui pourroient \u00eatre tr\u00e8s onereux au malheureux Cr\u00e9ancier.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-21-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0167", "content": "Title: Deed of Mortgage of Slaves to Van Staphorst & Hubbard, 21 November 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Van Staphorst & Hubbard\n                    This deed made on the 21st. day of Nov. 1796. between Thomas Jefferson of Albemarle in Virginia on the one part and Nicholas Van Staphorst, Jacob Van Staphorst and  Hubbard of Amsterdam in the United Netherlands merchants and partner. Witnesseth, that whereas the said Thomas hath conveyed by deeds of mortgage fifty seven negro slaves to William Short, fifty two other negro slaves to Henderson McCaul & Co., sixteen other slaves to Wakelyn Welsh, eight other slaves to Philip Mazzei, and seventeen other slaves to the said Van Staphorsts & Hubbard making in the whole one hundred and fifty slaves specially named and described in the said deeds, whereupon there remains to the said Thomas an equity of redemption on payment of the sums of money due to the said mortgagees respectively and for securing whereof the said mortgages were executed, and whereas the said Van Staphorsts & Hubbard have now lately and since the dates of the said deeds lent to the said Thomas the further sum of two thousand dollars, now therefore for securing the same, and in consideration of the further sum of five shillings to him in hand paid he hath given granted and conveyed unto the said Nicholas and Jacob Van Staphorsts & Hubbard all his right and equity of redemption in the said hundred and fifty negro slaves in full and absolute right and dominion. Provided nevertheless  that if the said Thomas shall faithfully pay to the said Van Staphorsts & Hubbard the said sum of two thousand dollars with lawful interest thereon, then these presents to become void. Witness his hand and seal the day and year above written\nRichard Adams", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "11-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0169", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Thomas Mann Randolph, 28 November 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Randolph, Thomas Mann\n                    It is so cold that the freezing of the ink on the point of my pen renders it difficult to write. We have had the thermometer at 12\u00b0. My works are arrested in a state entirely unfinished, and I fear we shall not be able to resume them. Clarke has sold our wheat in Bedford for 8/6 and the rise to the 1st. of June, with some other modifications. It appears to be a good sale. He preferred it to 10/6 certain which was offered him. I think he was right as there is little appearance of any intermission of the war.\u2014I thank you for your letter of news, and am glad to see the republican preeminence in our assembly.\u2014The paper you inclosed me presents a result entirely questionable according to my own ideas of the subject. The preponderance of the Mckain interest in the Western counties of Pensylvania is by no means as great as is there supposed. Few will believe the true dispositions of my mind on that subject. It is not the less true however that I do sincerely wish to be the second on that vote rather than the first. The considerations which induce this preference are solid, whether viewed with relation to interest, happiness, or reputation. Ambition is long since dead in my mind. Yet even a well-weighed ambition would take the same side.\u2014My new threshing machine will be tried this week.\u2014P. Carr is on the point of marriage.\u2014All are well here, and join in the hope of your continuing so. Adieu.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-04-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0171", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Joseph Donath, 4 December 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Donath, Joseph\n                    I have recieved your favor of Oct. 19. and become sensible of the error in calculating the 180. panes as so many feet. It makes a difference, as I state it, of 20.D. 25c. which sum or whatever it may be Mr. Barnes will pay you on application in consequence of a letter I write him this day. With respect to the glass 14. by 12. instead of 12 I. square, I  believe I must decline taking it, on account of the size, and it\u2019s not being 1 1/2 thick, as in the high situation of my house, the winds make a very stout quality of glass necessary. As we have failed to finish our walls this season and consequently cannot cover in, we have time till the spring or summer before this glass will be wanting, by which time you may perhaps be able to furnish me of the size and quality necessary. I am Sir Your very humble servt\n                            balance short\u2014remitted", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0173", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Madison, 5 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    It is not possible yet to calculate with any degree of certainty whether you are to be left by the Electors to enjoy the repose to which you are so much attached, or are to be summoned to the arduous trust which depends on their allotment. It is not improbable that Pinkney will step in between the two who have been treated as the principals in the question. It is even suspected that this turn has been secretly meditated from the beginning in a quarter where the leading zeal for Adams has been affected. This Jockeyship is accounted for by the enmity of Adams to Banks and funding systems which is now become public, and by an apprehension that he is too headstrong to be a fit puppet for the intriguers behind the skreen. It is to be hoped that P. may equally disappoint those who expect to make that use of him, if the appointment should in reallity light on him. We do not however absolutely despair that a choice better than either may still be made; and there is always the chance of a devolution of the business on the House of Reps. which will I believe decide it as it ought to be decided.\n                    Ad\u00eats Note which you will have seen, is working all the evil with which it is pregnant. Those who rejoice at its indiscretions and are taking advantage of them, have the impudence to pretend that it is an electioneering manoeuvre, and that the French Govt. have been led to it by the opponents of the British Treaty. Unless the unhapy effect of it here and cause of it in France, be speedily obviated by wise councils and healing measures, the crisis will unquestionably be perverted into a perpetual alienation of the two Countries by the secret enemies of both. The immediate consequences of such an event may be distressing; but the permanent ones to the commercial and other great interests of this Country, form a long and melancholy catalogue. We know nothing of the policy meditated by the Executive on this occasion. The Speech will probably furnish some explanation of it. Yrs. always & affecy.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-05-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0174", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Wilson Cary Nicholas, 5 December 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Nicholas, Wilson Cary\n                    About the latter end of the last assembly I wrote to sollicit your endeavors to procure an act giving the character of citizens to Nicholas and Jacob Van Staphorst and Nicholas Hubbard merchants and bankers of Amsterdam. My letter got too late to your hands, and as you may not now have it with you I will state the subject again from the beginning.\n                    On the failure of the revolution attempted in Holland in 1788 the leaders of the patriotic party were obliged to fly their country. They came chiefly to Paris, and consisted mostly of substantial merchants, bankers and lawyers. Of these, Jacob Van Staphorst was the principal, and was indeed destined for a principal office if the revolution had succeeded. At Paris their consultations were in what part of the world they should seek a new establishment. They had no difficulty in deciding on the United States, which occasioned their consulting me. On a view of all circumstances and advantages, Norfolk seemed likely to attract them. Just in this stage of the business the court of France took some measures which encouraged some of them to remain in Paris, others went elsewhere, some home, and so they got dispersed. On the commencement of the present revolution in the United Netherlands, the  Van Staphorsts, who had been increasing their business in the US. again turned their attention to this state and became desirous of having here a fixed resource in every event, and of being qualified to prepare an establishment. As I had been consulted before, and was personally acquainted with them they applied to me to use my endeavors to get them made citizens of this commonwealth; and this was the object of my former as it is of the present letter. I informed them of the accident which prevented the attempt at the last session, and I have lately recieved a letter from them solliciting a renewal of it. I have waited some time expecting the arrival of a petition for this purpose which they wrote me word they would send through their correspondents in Philadelphia, but as I do not know of it\u2019s arrival, and the present session may pass over before it does arrive I have thought it best not to await it longer. The general question Whether persons residing in foreign countries should be permitted to hold lands here admits of plausible arguments on both sides. Perhaps it is not easy to lay down general rules for the government of all cases, which may not in some of them produce inconvenience: and till this can be done, perhaps it is best for the legislature to keep in their own hands the dispensation of the rights of citizenship, governing themselves by their own discretion and the circumstances of every case. The idea of the present applicants was originally taken up with a view to a particular event. Perhaps even now it may in some degree be eventual. The short intercourse between Norfolk and St. Eustatius, where their chief commercial connections were, rendered such a change of residence scarcely a change of business. Having long contemplated the subject, and familiarized their minds to it, nothing is more possible than that, let events be what they will, it may lead to the commencement of an establishment there, and nothing but a collection of large capitalists is wanting to give to that place the immense advantages of it\u2019s natural position; to render it unnecessary for our merchants to go further to sell or buy. It is unnecessary to develope the benefits which would accrue from the rise of Norfolk; they must be obvious to every one. And I propose the present measure merely because it may prove the first step towards the acquisition of great advantages, and can at worst produce small inconvenience. If on a contemplation of the subject you view it as I do, I will ask the favor of you to endeavor to get an act passed declaring Nicholas Van Staphorst Jacob Vanstaphorst and Nicholas Hubbard of the city of Amsterdam citizens of this commonwealth. I think it would be best to clog it with no conditions inconsistent with their present citizenship but to leave the measure full and free to work it\u2019s own effect. I am with great esteem Dear Sir Your friend & servt", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-10-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0178", "content": "Title: Enclosure: Power of Attorney to John Barnes for William Short, 10 December 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Barnes, John\n                    Know all men by these presents that I Thomas Jefferson named in a certain letter of attorney from William Short of the state of Virginia, late one of the ministers of the US. abroad, to me, bearing date the 2d. day of April 1793. and now lodged in the bank of the US. by virtue of the power and authority thereby given me, do substitute and appoint John Barnes of Philadelphia as well my own as the true and lawful attorney and substitute of the said William Short named in the said letter of Attorney to recieve from the treasury or bank of the US. the interest which became due on the stock of different descriptions of the said Wm. Short registered in the proper office of the US. at the seat of government in Philadelphia from the 1st. day of July to the 1st. day of October last past amounting to three hundred and some odd dollars and becoming payable on the said 1st. day of October, hereby ratifying and confirming the paiment of the said interest to the said John Barnes and the discharge which he shall give for the same as done by virtue of the power of attorney aforesaid. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 10th. day of December 1796.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-12-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0180", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Volney, 12 December 1796\nFrom: Volney, Constantin Fran\u00e7ois Chasseboeuf, Comte de\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Je commence \u00e0 me persuader que Vous N\u2019avez point re\u00e7u une de mes Lettres, celle que j\u2019e\u00fbs l\u2019honneur de Vous adresser de lexington le 20 7bre. En vous y rendant compte de Mon Voyage Vers L\u2019ouabache, au poste Canadien de Vincennes, et en Vous exposant les raisons qui M\u2019emp\u00eachaient Malgr\u00e9 Mon desir, d\u2019effectuer Mon retour par Monticello, je Vous priais de Vouloir bien Me faire passer Ma Valise par La premiere occasion S\u00fbre que Vous auriez pour philadelphie, o\u00f9 j\u2019esperais la rejoindre en decembre.\n                    Madame Madison a qui je rendis Visite il y a deux jours, M\u2019ayant dit que Vous attendiez de Mes Nouvelles, pour Me faire cet envoi, j\u2019en conclus que Ma lettre de lexington S\u2019est egar\u00e9e. Je dois donc Vous re\u00efterer Ma demande, quoique d\u2019ailleurs je ne Veuille point Me d\u00e9sister de l\u2019engagement de retourner \u00e0 Monticello: Mais ne pr\u00e9voyant point \u00e0 quelle epoque je pourrai le remplir, et ayant besoin de quelques objets contenus dans cette Valise, je desire L\u2019avoir ici dans Mes Mains avant de faire quelque Nouvelle course.\n                    Celle que je Viens d\u2019achever N\u2019a pas laiss\u00e9 que d\u2019\u00eatre longue et penible: apr\u00e8s \u00eatre revenu de L\u2019ouabache et avoir travers\u00e9 le Kentuckey, je me dirigeai au Nord et Me rendis par Cincinnati et la ligne des forts, jusqu\u2019a Votre Nouvelle possession de detroit. Il serait trop Long de Vous d\u00e9crire cette partie de pays que les americains eux memes disent leur avoir \u00e9t\u00e9 peu connue avant ce jour: surtout lorsque j\u2019ignore Sur quelle partie Se porterait plus Specialement Votre int\u00e9r\u00eat: je me bornerai \u00e0 Vous dire en Masse que de L\u2019ohio aux lacs le sol est gen\u00e9ralement plat; que les eaux trouvent Si peu de pente qu\u2019elles ne  savent par o\u00f9 S\u2019ecouler; d\u2019o\u00f9 resultent d\u2019interminables detours, de pernicieux Marais, des Swamps aussi penibles que dangereux. Dans cent ans quand toute cette Vaste foret Sera eclaircie et le Sol dessech\u00e9, ce sera une riche plaine telle que Notre flandre et La hollande, une pepiniere de bestiaux pour tout le continent, et une habitation plus riche peut-\u00eatre que le Kentuckey: Mais en ce moment C\u2019est une ennuyeuse et Sauvage Solitude de bois et de prairie, o\u00f9 Malgr\u00e9 de bonnes tentes et une assez bonne ch\u00e8re, toute Notre compagnie a pris la fievre en 15 jours: de Maniere que de 26 personnes parties de Cincinnati, le Seul capitaine sparks S\u2019est Maintenu Sauf. Le Major Swan, et Moi qui resist\u00e2mes le plus longtems pass\u00e2mes un plus fort tribut en arrivant au detroit. Par exception, au lieu de la fievre intermittente j\u2019e\u00fbs une fievre bilieuse, qui heureusement ceda en Six jours \u00e0 deux Vigoureuses doses d\u2019Em\u00e9tique, sans rien autre chose que la diete et L\u2019eau, relev\u00e9e ensuite, quand L\u2019appetit Vint, par le Vin de porto, et le beef Stek au Ketchap. Ma convalescence e\u00fbt et\u00e9 rapide, Sans Le lac Eri\u00e9, o\u00f9 jessuyai 16 jours le Mal de Mer sans compter l\u2019un des plus eminens dangers de Naufrage, que de Laveu de Notre capitaine on puisse Eprouver. Pendant 12 heures, Surpris Sur Notre ancre, trop pr\u00e8s d\u2019une petite isle, par une tempete de Nord ouest, Nous frapp\u00e2mes de la quille plus de 60 fois le fond, et Nous N\u2019ech\u00e2ppames au brisement de Notre: Sloop que par le Miracle d\u2019une construction excellente, et L\u2019heureux incident de Netre point charg\u00e9. Une fois pied \u00e0 terre, le spectacle de Niagara M\u2019a tout fait oublier. Ce n\u2019est pas Seulement la cataracte, c\u2019est tout l\u2019ensemble topographique du terrein pendant 7 Miles qui est curieux \u00e0 conna\u00eetre. Aucun Voyageur Ne me Semble l\u2019avoir Saisi ou du Moins developp\u00e9. Depuis Niagara jusqu\u2019a Genes\u00e9e c\u2019est un desert, que je traversai \u00e0 cheval Moyennant la politesse du juge powell qui M\u2019en pr\u00eata un et Me donna un guide. Il M\u2019avait fallu Vendre au detroit, le tr\u00e8s bon cheval Kentuckois que j\u2019avais achet\u00e9. Au Genes\u00e9e trouvant une route de charette qui traverse une ligne d\u2019etablissemens yankis fond\u00e9s depuis 7 ans et d\u00e9j\u00e0 florissans, je Me mis \u00e0 pied\u2014jusqu\u2019au Mohawk, o\u00f9 Lhyver M\u2019a oblig\u00e9 de prendre La detestable Voye des Stages ouverts. Si jamais je publie des M\u00e9moi res, je traiterai ces Machines brisereins et donneuses de Rhumes de Maniere \u00e0 ce qu\u2019aucun Voyageur ne Soit tent\u00e9 d\u2019y Monter. Du reste, toute rancune cessante, je suis arriv\u00e9 Sain, Sauf, et tr\u00e8s bien portant \u00e0 philadelphie o\u00f9 je vais Me reposer cet hyver: j\u2019entends reposer le corps, car je me trouve arrier\u00e9 en travaux d\u2019esprit, et je me propose de Me remettre au courant. Pour cet effet j\u2019ai deja pris un plan de Vie aussi Solitaire qu\u2019il \u00e9tait dissip\u00e9 L\u2019an pass\u00e9. En \u00e9coutant par passetems ce qu\u2019on dit des affaires d\u2019Europe et M\u00eame d\u2019amerique, je vais Mettre Mon portefeuille  en Ordre, et Si vous r\u00e9imprimez Vos Notes de Virginie, j\u2019aurai un Veritable plaisir \u00e0 Vous en extraire ce qui Vous conviendra. Veuillez, Monsieur, Sur cet objet, comme Sur tout autre, M\u2019indiquer Vos intentions, et Soyez persuad\u00e9 de Mon desir constant de les remplir. Je recevrai ici toute lettre poste restante, V\u00fb que je suis oblig\u00e9 Sous dix jours de changer de logement. On dit qu\u2019outre Nos victoires d\u2019italie, nos affaires int\u00e9rieures Vont bien, que la Valeur de Nos biens fonds \u00e0 doubl\u00e9 en Num\u00e9raire en 3 Mois: que l\u2019on Vend \u00e0 terme de 90 jours, chose inou\u00efe depuis 3 ans. Malheureusement il parait que la paix N\u2019aura point lieu, et il faudra faire au printems prochain une descente en angleterre: L\u2019on S\u2019en occupe tr\u00e8s S\u00e9rieusement. La Nomination d\u2019un Nouveau tiers de Notre legislature aura des cons\u00e9quences tr\u00e8s importantes Sur Notre esprit public. Ainsi le printems et let\u00e9 prochain Nous promettent une Nouvelle Sc\u00e8ne. Elle Sera tr\u00e8s curieuse aussi en ce pays: le principal interet que j\u2019y attache est de vous revoir quelque part que ce soit en aussi bonne sant\u00e9 et aussi heureux que Vous M\u2019avez paru L\u2019\u00eatre \u00e0 Monticello. Veuillez rappeller Mon souvenir \u00e0 Votre famille et agr\u00e9er Mes Sentimens D\u2019attachement et D\u2019estime", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0181", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to John Garland Jefferson, 17 December 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Jefferson, John Garland\n                    At the time your favor of Nov. 11. came to hand I had not yet recieved an answer from Genl. Smith. It came some time after and I now inclose it to you. You will percieve that from a different construction of the same clause in the constitution in the superior and inferior courts, you would be refused in the former and admitted in the latter the first year. You would therefore not be merely idle the first year and might be making an acquaintance for your passage to the superior courts. I have no doubt that Tanissee is a good field for a man of industry, integrity and talents: and it is a good country to lay out advantageously the profits of business. I do not wonder therefore you prefer that to your present field. You are now at the time of life most capable of exertions, and you should make hay while the sun shines. As you advance in years it will become more and more disagreeable to be moving about. I sincerely  wish you success in your undertaking, and shall always be happy to hear from you and to learn that you are doing well; being with sincere esteem Dear Sir Yours affectionately", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-17-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0182", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to James Madison, 17 December 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Madison, James\n                    Your favor of the 5th. came to hand last night. The first wish of my heart was that you should have been proposed for the administration of the government. On your declining it I wish any body rather than myself: and there is nothing I so anxiously hope as that my name may come out either second or third. These would be indifferent to me; as the last would leave me at home the whole year, and the other two thirds of it. I have no expectation that the Eastern states will suffer themselves to be so much outwitted as to be made the tools for bringing in P. instead of A. I presume they will throw away their second vote. In this case it begins to appear possible that there may be an equal division where I had supposed the republican vote would have been considerably minor. It seems also possible that the Representatives may be divided. This is a difficulty from which the constitution has provided no issue. It is both my duty and inclination therefore to relieve the embarrasment should it happen: and in that case I pray you and authorize you fully to sollicit on my behalf that Mr. Adams may be preferred. He has always been my senior from the commencement of our public life, and the expression of the public will being equal, this circumstance ought to give him the preference. When so many motives will be operating to induce some of the members to change their vote, the addition of my wish may have some effect to preponderate the scale.  I am really anxious to see the speech. It must exhibit a very different picture of our foreign affairs from that presented in the Adieu, or it will little correspond with my views of them. I think they never wore so gloomy an aspect since the year 83. Let those come to the helm who think they can steer clear of the difficulties. I have no confidence in myself for the undertaking.\n                    We have had the severest weather ever known in November. The thermometer was at 12\u00b0. here and in Goochland, and I suppose generally. It arrested my buildings very suddenly when eight days more would have completed my walls, and permitted us to cover in. The  drought is excessive. From the middle of October to the middle of December not rain enough to lay the dust. A few days ago there fell a small rain, but the succeeding cold has probably prevented it from sprouting the grain sown during the drowth. Present me in friendly terms to Messrs. Giles, Venable, Page. Adieu affectionately.\n                        P.S. I inclose a letter for Volney because I do not know where to address to him.\n                        Pray send me Gallatin\u2019s view of the finances of the U.S. and Paine\u2019s letter to the President if within the compas of a conveyance by post.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0184", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from John Wayles Eppes, 19 December 1796\nFrom: Eppes, John Wayles\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    I have it now in my power to inform you that all obstacles to my happiness are removed, and that in every arrangement as to future residence, I shall be guided by yourself and Maria. I am with sincere regard yours", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-19-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0185", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Madison, 19 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    The returns from N. Hampshire, Vermont, S.C. and Georga. are still to come in, and leave the event of the Election in some remaining uncertainty. It is but barely possible that Adams may fail of the highest number. It is highly probable, tho\u2019 not absolutely certain, that Pinkney will be third only on the list. You must prepare yourself therefore to be summoned to the place Mr. Adams now fills. I am aware of the objections arising from the inadequateness of the importance of the place to the sacrifices you would be willing to make to a greater prospect of fulfilling the patriotic wishes of your friends; and from the irksomeness of being at the head of a body whose sentiments are at present so little in unison with your own. But it is expected that as you had made up your mind to obey the call of your Country, you will let it decide on the particular place where your services are to be rendered. It may even be said, that as you submitted to the election knowing the contingency involved in it, you are bound to abide by the event whatever it may. On the whole it seems essential that you should not refuse the station which is likely to be your lot. There is reason to believe also that your neighbourhood to adams may have a valuable effect on his councils particularly in relation to our external system. You know that his feelings will not enslave him to the example of his predecessor. It is certain that his censures of our paper system and the intrigues at new York for setting P. above him have fixed an enmity with the British faction. Nor should it pass for nothing, that the true interest of new england particularly requires reconciliation with France as the road to her commerce. Add to the whole that he is said to speak of you now in friendly terms and will no doubt be soothed by your acceptance of a place subordinate to him. It must be confessed however that all these calculations, are qualified by his political principles and  prejudices. But they add weight to the obligation from which you must not withdraw yourself.\n                    You will see in the answer to the P.s speech, much room for criticism. You must, for the present, be content to know that it resulted from a choice of evils. His reply to the foreign paragraph indicates a good effect on his mind. Indeed he cannot but wish to avoid entailing a war on his successor. The danger lies in the fetters he has put on himself and in the irritation and distrust of the French government.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-25-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0186", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from James Madison, 25 December 1796\nFrom: Madison, James\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    I can not yet entirely remove the uncertainty in which my last left the election. Unless the Vermont election of which little has of late been said, should contain some fatal vice in it, Mr. Adams may be considered as the President elect. Nothing can deprive him of it but a general run of the votes in Georgia, Tenissee and Kentucky in favor of Mr. Pinkney, which is altogether contrary to the best information. It is not even probable that Mr. P. will be the second on the list, the secondary votes of N. Hampshire being now said to have been thrown away on Elseworth: and a greater number consequently required from the States abovementioned than will be likely to fall to his lot. We have nothing new from Europe. The prospect and projects in our foreign  Department are under a veil not a corner of which I have been able to lift. I fear the distrust with which the French Govt. view the Executive here, and the fetters which the President has suffered himself to put on, will be obstacles to the reconciliation which he can not fail to desire. It is whispered also that the Spanish Minister has intimated the probable dissatisfaction of his Court at the Explanatory Article of the British Treaty. Nor can it be doubted, from the nature of the alliance between that and France, that a common cause will be made in all the steps taken by the latter with respect to this Country. In the mean time the British party are busy in their calumnies for turning the blame of the present crisis from themselves, on the pretended instigations of France, by americans at Paris; and some of them are already bold eno\u2019 to talk of an alliance with England as the resourse in case of an actual rupture with France. The new President who ever he will be will have much in his power; and it is important to make as many circumstances as possible conspire to lead him to a right use of it. There never was greater distress than at this moment in the monied world. Failures and frauds occur daily; And are so much connected with Banks that these Institutions are evidently losing ground in the public opinion.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-26-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0187", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Volney, 26 December 1796\nFrom: Volney, Constantin Fran\u00e7ois Chasseboeuf, Comte de\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Dans une lettre que j\u2019e\u00fbs L\u2019honneur de Vous ecrire il y a environ dix jours, je Vous faisais part de Mon arriv\u00e9e en cette Ville, et Vous priais de Me faire passer le portemanteau que javais laiss\u00e9 chez Vous. Votre obligeante pr\u00e9voyance Vient de rendre inutile ce paragraphe de Ma longue Ep\u00eetre; apr\u00e8s deux ou trois jours de recherche Mutuelle, Nous Nous sommes enfin rencontr\u00e9s Mr. Emanuel Walker et Moi, et il M\u2019a remis Mon porte-Manteau en aussi bon etat que je pouvais le desirer: Seulement la clef du cadenat Manquait, et il M\u2019a dit Ne l\u2019avoir point re\u00e7ue: Si elle est, egar\u00e9e c\u2019est un petit Malheur dont je Suis tout consol\u00e9; Mais Si elle Se retrouve \u00e0 Monticello je Serai bien aise t\u00f4t ou tard de la recouvrer. Du reste j\u2019ai facilement ouvert Sans cette clef, en decoupant le cuir, et je jouis du Soin de propret\u00e9 dans lequel j\u2019ai trouv\u00e9 Mon bagage.\n                    Jai re\u00e7u de paris une lettre de L\u2019eveque Gregoire, Membre de L\u2019institut National par laquelle il Me Mande que le Naturaliste Dombey etait charg\u00e9 de Vous faire passer un M\u00e8tre et un grave Echantillons V\u00e9rifi\u00e9s de Nos Mesures Longues et cubiques. Dombey ayant et\u00e9 pris par des Corsaires et conduit \u00e0 L\u2019Isle Montserrat o\u00f9 il est Mort, Ses effets ont et\u00e9 dit on apportes \u00e0 Newyork o\u00f9 lon croit qu\u00ee ils sont depos\u00e9s \u00e0 la Douane: comme il devait y avoir une lettre d\u2019envoy en avez-Vous jamais eu quelqu\u2019avis? Ou bien Voulez-vous que je prie Le Colonel Burr d\u2019en faire faire la recherche? J\u2019attendrai un Mot de Votre part \u00e0 cet egard. Au reste il para\u00eet que Vous-meme Serez incessament en Mesure, puis que Vos amis comptent Vous Voir en Mars \u00e0 philadelphie quoique ce ne soit pas de la maniere qu\u2019ils L\u2019ont d\u00e9sir\u00e9. Mais en cela M\u00eame il y a un Nouveau genre de Merite et de Vertu \u00e0 Montrer, et Vous pourrez dire en Veritable ami des principes de L\u2019egalit\u00e9 Republicaine, L\u2019alt\u00e8 Non temo, \u00e8 L\u2019humile Non Sdegno.\n                        Moi qui Vous ai V\u00fb jouir du bonheur champ\u00eatre, je Sens qu\u2019il Vous en coutera de quitter Vos champs, Votre b\u00e2tisse, et L\u2019utile clouterie; Mais Votre absence Ne Sera jamais longue, et outre le besoin d\u2019un peu de Vari\u00e9t\u00e9, Vous ne refuserez point un Sacrifice de plus en plus necessaire Sous bien des points de Vue; dailleurs Si Vous \u00e9tiez bien embarrass\u00e9 de trouver un \u0153conome overseer, je pourrais Vous repondre d\u2019un qu\u00ee aurait au Moins le zele de L\u2019attachement\n                        Je ne suis point encore log\u00e9 \u00e0 demeure.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0188", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Enoch Edwards, 27 December 1796\nFrom: Edwards, Enoch\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    When I arrived in Octr: last at N. York from France I forwarded on a letter or two from Mr: Monroe to you\u2014and I should have written to you then as I promised him\u2014but I really intended before I setled myself, to have taken a Trip into your State, and to have had the Pleasure of seeing you at your own House.\n                    I left Paris the 7th. of August in the Midst of their Success and Glory as likewise the utmost Tranquillity\u2014and every Prospect of Success with thier Government as well as their Arms. The only thing that was unpleasant about the time I left the Place was the Resentment which that Government discovered towards Us on the Account of the Treaty. Mr: Monroe as You must know entered into a Defence of it\u2014so far as to deny its being a direct Violation of our Treaty with them\u2014this Defence I have a Copy of and intend to send it to you by Mr: Madison\u2014unless you should inform Me before he leaves Us that you have one. You will see by it that our Freind Monroe is treated with as much Cruelty as has been possible. The Cry against him here is that he did not reveal to the French Government certain Reasons assigned by our\u2019s for its Conduct, early anough, When it will appear by the Correspondence that he replied to their Complaints in less than a Week after he received them, and in a Manner that does him the highest Honor both as to his Talents and Patriotism.\n                    I really suspect that the Directoire will not receive Mr: Pinckney\u2014but act as they did in the Case of the appointed Successor to Baron de Staal\u2014should that be the Case, We shall here have a great Noise about it, much will be said about french Impudence, foreign Interference and our Soverignty\u2014more than if the English had taken a hundred of our Seamen or sculped a thousand of our peaceable Citizens.\n                    Mr: Monroe when he commited the Paper (with others) above mentioned into my Hands\u2014submited it entirely to my Discretion whether to publish them or not. I think it right that some should be known to the  Publick but as it is likely we shall have him here soon, I have concluded to leave it untill he comes\u2014perhaps the time also then may be quite as favorable as the present for heaving and giving Weight to Truth. With much Respect & Esteem I am your very obedt st.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-27-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0189", "content": "Title: From Thomas Jefferson to Edward Rutledge, 27 December 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Rutledge, Edward\n                    I am afraid of being a troublesome correspondent to you. I wish to obtain about 20. bushels of the Cowpea, a red field pea commonly cultivated with you, and a principal article for the subsistence of your farms, which we have not yet introduced. I understand it is always to be had at Charleston, ready barreled for exportation: and the favor I ask of you is to engage some merchant of Charleston to ship me that quantity to Richmond consigned to the care of Chas. Johnston & Co. of that place who will recieve it and pay freight. Draw, if you please for the amount on John Barnes merchant of Philadelphia, South 3d. street, who will be instructed to honor your draught. I have supposed this the most ready channel of making a paiment in Charleston.  I understand you have introduced the Lieth machine into your state for threshing your rice. I have used one this year for my wheat with perfect success. It was geered. A person of this state has made them more simple and cheap, by substituting bands and whirls instead of geer and they perform well, threshing 13 1/2 bushels of wheat an hour, which is as much as I did with mine which was geered. The improver has obtained a patent for his improvement, tho\u2019 I doubt the validity of it, as there is  no new invention, but only a bringing together two things in full use before, to wit, the Lieth drum wheel or threshing wheel, and the band and whirl used for bolting and a thousand other things. I have made my Lieth machine portable from one barn to another, placing it on 4. waggon wheels, on which it always remains. It does not weigh a ton.\n                    You have seen my name lately tacked to so much of eulogy and of abuse, that I dare say you hardly thought it meant for your old acquaintance of 76. In truth I did not know myself under the pens either of my friends or foes. It is unfortunate for our peace that unmerited abuse wounds, while unmerited praise has not the power to heal. These are hard wages for the services of all the active and healthy years of one\u2019s life. I had retired after five and twenty years of constant occupation in public affairs and total abandonment of my own. I retired much poorer than when I entered the public service, and desired nothing but rest and oblivion. My name however was again brought forward, without concert or expectation on my part (on my salvation I declare it.) I do not as yet know the result as a matter of fact; for in my retired canton we have nothing later from Philadelphia than of the 2d week of this month. Yet I have never one moment doubted the result. I knew it was impossible Mr. Adams should lose a vote North of the Delaware, and that the free and moral agency of the South would furnish him an abundant supplement. On principles of public respect I should not have refused: but I protest before my god that I shall, from the bottom of my heart, rejoice at escaping. I know well that no man will ever bring out of that office the reputation which carries him into it. The honey moon would be as short in that case as in any other, and it\u2019s moments of extasy would be ransomed by years of torment and hatred. I shall highly value indeed the share which I may have had in the late vote, as an evidence of the share I hold in the esteem of my countrymen. But in this point of view a few votes more or less will be little sensible, and in every other the minor will be preferred by me to the major vote. I have no ambition to govern men, no passion which would lead me to delight to ride in a storm. Flumina amo, sylvasque, inglorius. My attachment to my home has enabled me to make the calculation with rigor, perhaps with partiality to the issue which is to keep me there. The newspapers will permit me to plant my Cow-peas in hills or drills as I please (and my oranges by the bye when you send them) while our Eastern friend will be struggling with the storm which is gathering over us, perhaps be shipwrecked in it. This is certainly not a moment to covet the helm.\n                    I have often doubted whether most to praise or to blame your line of conduct. If you had lent to your country the excellent talents you possess, on you would have fallen those torrents of abuse which have lately been poured forth on me. So far I praise the wisdom which has  descried and steered clear of a water-spout ahead. But now for the blame. There is a debt of service due from every man to his country, proportioned to the bounties which nature and fortune have measured to him. Counters will pay this from the poor of spirit: but from you my friend, coin was due. There is no bankrupt law in heaven by which you may get off with shillings in the pound, with rendering to a single state what you owed to the whole confederacy. I think it was by the Roman law that a father was denied sepulture, unless his son would pay his debts. Happy for you and us, that you have a son whom genius and education have qualified to pay yours. But as you have been a good father in every thing else, be so in this also. Come forward and pay your own debts. Your friends the Mr. Pinckney\u2019s have at length undertaken their tour. My joy at this would be complete if you were in geer with them. I love to see honest men and honorable men at the helm, men who will not bend their politics to their purses, nor pursue measures by which they may profit, and then profit by their measures. Au diable les Bougres! I am at the end of my curse and bottom of my page, so God bless you and yours. Adieu affectionately.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0190-0002", "content": "Title: I. To John Adams, 28 December 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: Adams, John\n                        The public and the public papers have been much occupied lately in placing us in a point of opposition to each other. I trust with confidence that less of it has been felt by ourselves personally. In the retired canton where I am, I learn little of what is passing: pamphlets I see never; papers but a few; and the fewer the happier. Our latest intelligence from Philadelphia at present is of the 16th inst. but tho\u2019 at that date your election to the first magistracy seems not to have been known as a fact, yet with me it has never been doubted. I knew it impossible you should lose a vote North of the Delaware, and even if that of Pensylvania should be against you in the mass, yet that you would get enough South of that to place your succession out of danger. I have never one single moment expected a different issue; and tho\u2019 I know I shall not be believed, yet it is not the less true that I have never wished it. My neighbors, as my compurgators, could aver that fact, because they see my occupations and my attachment to them. Indeed it is possible that you may be cheated of your succession by a trick worthy the subtlety of your archfriend of New York, who has been able to make of your real friends tools to defeat their and your just wishes. Most probably he will be disappointed as to you; and my inclinations place me out of his reach. I leave to others the sublime delights of riding in the storm, better pleased with sound sleep and a warm birth below, with the society of neighbors, friends and fellow laborers of the earth, than of spies and sycophants. No one then will congratulate you with purer disinterestedness than myself. The share indeed which I may have had in the late vote, I shall still value highly, as an evidence of the share I have in the esteem of my fellow citizens. But while, in this point of view, a few votes less would be little sensible, the difference in the effect of a few more would be very sensible and oppressive to me. I have no ambition to govern men. It is a painful and thankless office. Since the day too on which you signed the treaty of Paris our horizon was never so overcast. I devoutly wish you may be able to shun for us this war by which our agriculture, commerce and credit will be destroyed. If you are, the glory will be all your own; and that your administration may be filled with glory and happiness to yourself and advantage to us is the sincere wish of one who tho\u2019, in the course of our voyage thro\u2019 life, various little incidents have happened or been contrived to separate us, retains still for you the solid esteem of the moments when we were working for our independance, and sentiments of respect and affectionate attachment.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-28-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0190-0003", "content": "Title: II. Copy from Memory, 28 December 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: \n                            Statement by memory of a letter written to J. Adams. Copy omitted to be retained.\n                        The public and the public papers have been much occupied lately in placing us in a point of opposition to each other. I confidently trust we have felt less of it ourselves. In the retired canton where I live we know little of what is passing. Pamphlets I see none: papers very few, and the fewer the happier. Our last information from Philada. is of the 16th. inst. At that date the issue of the late election seems not to have been known as a matter of fact. With me however it\u2019s issue was never doubted. I knew the impossibility of your losing a single vote North of the Delaware; and even if you should lose that of Pennsylva. in the mass, you would get enough South of that to make your election sure. I never for a single moment expected any other issue, and tho\u2019 I shall not be believed, yet it is not the less true that I never wished any other. My neighbors, as my compurgators, could aver this fact, as seeing my occupations and my attachment to them. It is possible indeed that even you may be cheated of your succession by a trick worthy the subtlety of your arch-friend of New York who has been able to make of your real friends tools for defeating their and your just wishes. Probably however he will be disappointed as to you, and my inclinations put me out of his reach. I leave to others the sublime delights of riding in the storm, better pleased with sound sleep and a warmer birth below it encircled with the society of neighbors, friends and fellow laborers of the earth, rather than with spies and sycophants. Still I shall value highly the share I may have had in the late vote, as a measure of the share I hold in the esteem of my fellow-citizens. In this point of view a few votes less are but little sensible, while a few more would have been in their effect very sensible and oppressive to me. I have no ambition to govern men. It is a painful  and thankless office. And never, since the day you signed the treaty of Paris, has our horizon been so overcast. I devoutly wish you may be able to shun for us this war which will destroy our agriculture, commerce and credit. If you do, the glory will be all your own. And that your administration may be filled with glory and happiness to yourself and advantage to us, is the sincere prayer of one, who tho\u2019, in the course of our voyage, various little incidents have happened or been contrived to separate us, yet retains for you the solid esteem of the times when we were working for our independance, and sentiments of sincere respect and attachment.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-29-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0191", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Volney, 29 December 1796\nFrom: Volney, Constantin Fran\u00e7ois Chasseboeuf, Comte de\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Votre lettre du 17 courant Me fut rendue hier Soir, et par un cas plaisant je Me trouve pour la troisieme fois atteint et convaincu de la precipitation fran\u00e7aise. Chez Vous, certain dimanche de juin deux heures d\u2019attente M\u2019eussent Sauv\u00e9 40 Miles de course apr\u00e8s Ma Valise. Ici, cinq jours plus tard, je Ne Vous e\u00fbsse point inqui\u00e9t\u00e9 par la demande que je Vous en faisais dans une premiere lettre. Aujourdhui enfin, deux jours de patience M\u2019eussent empech\u00e9 de Vous importuner pour la clef que je re\u00e7ois dans Votre lettre. Il y a en ceci un peu de quoi Moraliser Nos t\u00eates fran\u00e7aises, \u00e0 l\u2019avantage de la patience am\u00e9ricaine: moi m\u00eame j\u2019avoue qu\u2019en guerre d\u00e9fensive, Notre Vivacit\u00e9 Va Mal; aussi avons-Nous pris L\u2019agressive; quant \u00e0 Mon cas personnel qui N\u2019est point de guerre, je ne puis M\u2019en repentir, puisque Ma pr\u00e9cipitation a eu pour objet de Vous Sauver un Souci; et que jaimerai toujours a \u00eatre en avance dans tout ce qui tient \u00e0 L\u2019amiti\u00e9.\n                    Ma premiere lettre Vous a Expliqu\u00e9 Mes Motifs de Ne point aller cette ann\u00e9e \u00e0 Boston. Je dois Me feliciter de Mon retard, puisqu\u2019il M\u2019a Valu un article tr\u00e8s obligeant dans le papier Nouvelle de cette Capitale de L\u2019Est. Seulement j\u2019ai peur pour Mon Compte, de la fable des b\u00e2tons flottans, et qu\u2019apr\u00e8s toutes ces grandes id\u00e9es de Ma philosophie, l\u2019on Ne s\u2019appercoive que je suis un pauvre humain aussi faible que tant D\u2019autres dont on Ne parle point. Il est Vrai qu\u2019en cela M\u00eame je ressemblerais \u00e0 beaucoup d\u2019autres dont on parle; car graces \u00e0 la capricieuse fortune, il y  a dans ce Nouveau Monde comme dans L\u2019ancien des Nuages eclatans de talent et de gloire qui V\u00fbs de pr\u00e8s, ne sont que du brouillard. Cosi Va\u2019l Mondo: et comme entre les deux r\u00f4les philosophiques de rire et de pleurer, le Second porte aux obstructions Moi qui aime la Sant\u00e9: je livre heraclite \u00e0 qui Veut S\u2019en ennuyer, et je t\u00e2che de Me d\u00e9sopiler la rate avec D\u00e9mocrite.\n                    La recette en devient n\u00e9cessaire de plus en plus en cette Ville; car outre Lhabituelle gravit\u00e9 des tea-parties, l\u2019on y \u00e9prouve en ce Moment un Surcroit de Serieux caus\u00e9 par les circonstances Mercantiles que Vous connaissez. Un peu de philosophie, cest a dire de Moderation dans le desir e\u00fbt evit\u00e9 cette f\u00e2cheuse secousse des fortunes; Mais le Vent etait bon et chacun a forc\u00e9 de Voiles; chacun S\u2019en repent aujourdhui; et ce qu\u2019il y a de consolant, c\u2019est qu\u2019aussit\u00f4t que l\u2019orage Sera fini, tout le pass\u00e9 S\u2019oubliera et l\u2019on recommencera de plus belle. En ce Moment le commerce eprouve une Stagnation complette; la delaware au lieu de porter des Vaisseaux porte des patineurs; et S\u2019il est vrai qu\u2019\u00e0 pitsbourg il y ait trois pieds de Neige, et quatre \u00e0 presqu\u2019isle, il y a tout lieu de Craindre que Nous soyons ferm\u00e9s jusqu\u2019en Mars. Point de Nouvelles d\u2019Europe. Les Vents de Nord West qui dominent, retiennent au large les Vaisseaux. Je suis curieux de Savoir quel degr\u00e9 de froid, et quel ciel Vous avez eu ces derniers tems \u00e0 Monticello. Mes questions sur les Vents ne m\u2019ont pas procur\u00e9 une Seule lettre \u00e0 la poste de philadelphie. J\u2019ai ecrit au bureau de Boston: demain j\u00e9cris \u00e0 charlestown et je crains la M\u00eame disette: j\u2019ai Neant-moins aquis par Moim\u00eame quelques resultats g\u00e9n\u00e9raux, curieux Mais ils ne peuvent pas trouver place dans une lettre, Non plus que Mes [\u2026] sur les Sauvages et sur Vos settlers des fronti\u00e8res. C\u2019est un ample sujet de livre ou de conversation; et j\u2019arrive \u00e0 penser qu\u2019il occupera avec interet quelques-unes de Vos Soir\u00e9es de philadelphie ou Meme de Monticello. Agr\u00e9ez les Souhaits de bonne Sant\u00e9 et de Satisfaction que j\u2019ai L\u2019honneur de Vous adresser Moins comme l\u2019etiquette de Noel que comme L\u2019expression de L\u2019attachement et de L\u2019estime, de Votre tr\u00e8s humble Serviteur", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "12-31-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0192", "content": "Title: To Thomas Jefferson from Archibald Stuart, 31 December 1796\nFrom: Stuart, Archibald\nTo: Jefferson, Thomas\n                    Considering the attempts which will probably be made by some of the friends of Great Britain to widen our breach with France I feel an Inclination to forward a memorial to Congress from this quarter declaring our friendly disposition towards that Nation and that If we should be compelled to take part in the European War we prefer a union with France to that of Any Other power.\n                    Lest however such a Measure should tend to embarrass the Government or be attended with evil consequences which I do not foresee I take the liberty of Asking your advice as to the propriety of the measure under my promise of Secrecy.  Out of your Large supply of Chinese Bells I am in hopes you can spare me one without incommoding yourselfe, I mean one of the highest price and to which you will add the expence of Carriage from Philadelphia here; If so the Money shall be remited to you through Mr. S. Clarke. Mr. Cavendish has not yet returned from the assembly. I am Dr Sir yrs. most sincerely", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0193", "content": "Title: Declaration for the Mutual Assurance Society, [1796 or later]\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: \n                    IT must particularly be mentioned in the description of each plat, to wit: The dimensions of the Buildings intended to be insured, their situation and contiguity to other buildings or wharves, what the walls are built of, mentioning what part thereof is of brick, stone, or wood, that is how many feet of wood and how many feet of stone or brick, or if of wood and covered with thick plaster or lime, what the buildings are covered with, and for what use they are appropriated.\n                    If the buildings are joined or are within twenty feet of others, it must be mentioned, and likewise what the walls of such buildings contiguous to them are built of, and what they are covered with. If they are situated so that on account of trees, or back buildings or other obstructions, the fire engines cannot play upon them from at least two sides, it must particularly be mentioned.\n                    If a building is situated on a wharf or within one hundred feet thereof, or if buildings stand on dock yards or wharves where vessels are built, repaired, or caulked, it must particularly be mentioned.\n                    If a house has wings or other additions to it, their dimensions, what the walls are built of, and what they are covered with, and the certified value of which must separately be mentioned in the same declaration of such house or building.\n                    The valuation must be made in dollars.\n                    Gun-Powder Mills or such great hazards, are not insurable, unless by special contract with the President and Directors, nor a risk on one building above twenty thousand dollars, nor a building under the value of one hundred dollars in ready money.\n                    The full amount of the real value must be specified in the declarations, one fifth part thereof will be stricken off at the office.\n                    If a person doth not chuse to insure four-fifths of the verified value, he must endorse the amount which he wants to ensure thereon.\n                    A building is considered a house standing by itself, or between two whole party walls.\n                    The declarations must be signed by the proprietor with christian and family names, mentioning his place of residence, day, month and year.\n                    The valuations must be made by a majority of three respectable house-owners on oath or affirmation, as the case may require before a justice of the peace, and certify the same in writing under the declaration agreeably to the form annexed.\n                    A separate declaration must be made of the buildings offered for insurance on each tenement. The dwelling-house, kitchen, stable, lumber-house, office and such like, may be in one declaration, but must be specified and valued each separately and described in the plat by A. B. &c.\n                    No house will be considered as part of brick and part of stone, with one or more stories thereon, of wood; unless there be one complete story of brick or stone at least, eight feet above the surface of the earth, and the ceiling thereof plastered or arched, or one complete wall or walls, or gable ends of brick or stone, without any aperture.\n                    The declarations so executed must be presented to Mr. WILLIAM F. AST, Principal Agent, at Richmond, and the premiums must be paid to JAQUELIN AMBLER, Esq. Cashier General at the said place.\n                    Form of the Declarations for Assurance.\n                    I the underwritten Thomas Jefferson residing at Monticello in the county of Albemarle do hereby declare for Assurance in the Mutual  Assurance Society against Fire on Buildings of the State of Virginia, established the 26th December, 1795, agreeable to the several acts of the General Assembly of this state, to wit:\n                    My 6 several Buildings on and near the summit of the hill at Monticello now occupied by myself situated in open ground in the county of Albemarle aforesaid. Their dimensions, situation and contiguity to other buildings or wharves, what the walls are built of, and what the buildings are covered with, are specified in the hereunto annexed description of the said Buildings on the plat, signed by me and the appraisers, and each valued by them as appears by their certificate here under, to wit:\n                    I do hereby declare and affirm that the above mentioned property is not, nor shall be insured elsewhere, without giving notice thereof, agreeably to the policy that may issue in my name, upon the filing of this declaration, and provided the whole sum do not exceed four-fifths of the verified value, and that I will abide by, observe, and adhere to the Constitution, Rules and Regulations as are already established, or may hereafter be established by a majority of the insured present in person, or by representatives, at a general Meeting to be agreed upon for the said Assurance Society. Witness my hand and seal at Monticello aforesaid the  day of  1796 \n                        WE the underwritten, being each of us House-Owners, declare and affirm that we have examined the above mentioned Property of Thomas Jefferson and that we are of opinion that it would cost in cash  Dollars to build the same, and is now actually worth  Dollars in ready money, and will command the same as above specified to the best of our knowledge and belief.\n                        The foregoing valuation sworn to in due form  Residing in before me, a Magistrate for the said county  of Albemarle  Given under my hand this  day of  in the year 1796\n                        Plat of the buildings referred to in the above Declaration of Thomas Jefferson.\n                            A. is the dwelling house 90. feet long 40. f. broad in the middle exclusive of porticos, two story high except the two bows at the ends, the walls entirely built of stone and brick, the floors above ground and the roof of wood.\n                            B. is an Outchamber, with a kitchen below ground 142 feet from the dwelling house. One story high, the walls of brick, the floor above ground and roof of wood. 20. f. square\n                            C. is a joiner\u2019s shop, 57. feet by 18. feet, the underpinning and chimney of stone, the walls and roof of wood.\n                            D. is a smith and nailer\u2019s shop 37. by 18. f. the walls and roof of wood.\n                            E. is a stone outhouse 34. by 17. f. the floor of brick, the walls and chimney of stone, the roof of wood, one story high.\n                            F. is a stable 105. feet long and 12. f. wide. One story high. All of wood.\n The following houses are not included in the insurance, but as they are in a line with those ensured, and in their neighborhood they are described as follows.\ng.g. are 2 coal sheds of wood 20. by 15 f. and 22 f. apart, and it is proposed to build 4. others g.g.g.g about 25. f. apart for coal also. They are to contain about 8000. bushels of charcoal. From the nearest of them is 7 poles 15 links to\nh. a sawpit where a considerable quantity of timber usually lies. From the pit is 47. feet to\ni. a house 30 by 18 1/2 f. all of wood, the floor of earth, in which is stored plank and such things, it is used at times as a carpenter\u2019s shop, and sometimes a little fire is made on the floor. From this house is 56. feet to\nC. the joiner\u2019s shop before mentioned, one of the ensured buildings. From C. is 98. f. to\nD. the smith and nailers shop before mentioned, one of the ensured buildings.\n                            j. is a shed to be added to D. 50. feet by 18. f. for the nailers, to be built immediately, and making one building with D it is included in the valuation of D. as if it were already built, and is a part of the ensured property. This addition will extend to within 3. or 4 feet of k, a necessary house of wood 8. feet square. From k. it is 67. feet to\n                            l. a house 16. by 10 1/2 feet, of wood, used as a storehouse for nailrod and other iron. From 1. it is 8. feet to m. a house 43 1/2 f. by 16. f. of wood, the floors of earth, used as a smoke house for meat, and a dairy. From m. it is 24 f. to\n                            n. a wash house 16 1/2 f. square of wood, the chimney also wood, the floor earth. From n. it is 38. f. to\n                            o. a servant\u2019s house 20 1/2 f. by 12. f. of wood, with a wooden chimney and earth floor. From o. it is 103. feet to\n                            E. the stone out house before described, being part of the ensured property. From E. it is 7. feet to\n                            p. a shed 25. f. by 12 1/2 f. of wood, the floor of brick, used as a store house for joiner\u2019s work. From p. it is 3. f. to\n                            q. a servant\u2019s house 14. f. by 17. f. of wood, with a wooden chimney, the floor of earth. From q. it is 75. feet to\n                            r, which as well as s. and t. are servants houses of wood, with wooden chimnies, and earth floors, 12. by 14. feet, each and 27. feet apart from one another. From t. it is 85. feet to\n                            F. the stable before described, being one of the ensured buildings.\n                            This line of buildings from g. to F. is a strait one, and in it\u2019s nearest parts to A. and B. passes 227. feet from A. and 142. feet from B. The whole line i. to F. is shortly to be connected by a row of paling either touching or passing very near to every house between these points in the said line.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/01-29-02-0195", "content": "Title: Notes on a Copying Process, [1796]\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: \n                    Un particulier de Hambourg dit avoir trouv\u00e9 un proced\u00e9, pour prendre sur-le-champ \u00e0 peu de frais, et en quelque endroit qu\u2019on se trouve, copie de toute espece de manuscrit. Mais desirant tirer quelque profit de sa decouverte, il ne la communiquera qu\u2019aux personnes qui voudront payer cette communication 24. francs. On peut d\u00e8s \u00e0 present deposer ou faire parvenir cette somme, franc de port, chez le Cit. Coupery, notaire, rue Chabannais No. 18. le 12. Nivose prochain (1r. Janvier) 1797. Les souscripteurs recevront un petit memoire imprim\u00e9, dans lequel cette methode sera clairement expliqu\u00e9e. L\u2019argent restera chez le notaire, jusqu\u2019a ce que le memoire ait et\u00e9 delivr\u00e9e. Un certificat de douze negocians d\u2019Hambourg et du Consul de France, atteste que les experiences qu\u2019on a fa\u00eetes devant eux les ont complettement sat\u00eesfaits.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796},
{"created_timestamp": "01-01-1796", "downloaded_timestamp": "10-19-2021", "url": "https://founders.archives.gov/API/docdata/Jefferson/02-02-02-0006", "content": "Title: Memorandum Books, 1796\nFrom: Jefferson, Thomas\nTo: \n              Gave my bond to Lucy Wood for \u00a316. payable this day twelve month for the hire of James.\n              Gave do. to Mrs. Wood guardian of Jane Wood for \u00a315. for the hire of Dick.\n              Gave do. to Wm. Wood for 45.\u00a3 for Reuben, Bob & Patrick. Note these 3. bonds are to bear int. from the date if not paid at the day.\n              Mr. Buck begins to work. \n              Do. .25\u2014gave Essex on his departure 1.\n              Paid D. Watson on acct. 3.D.\n              Drew on J. Barnes in favor of Jackson for Dr. Wardlaw for 100.D. which credit Mr. Short.\n              Gave Petit order to recieve the 100.D. & pay to Mrs. Wood for 40. Bar. corn.\n              Drew on J. Barnes in favor Isaac Miller 86.285 D. which credit to Mr. Short.\n                  D.   Pd. Isaac Miller\u2005 my quarter\u2019s postage\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003 18.965    for TMRandolph 30. Recd. balance in cash37.32\u200386.285  \n              Sent by Tom to Mrs. Gilmer\u2019s mill for 3. Bar. corn.\n              Pd. Silknitter on acct. 1.D.\n              Debit Buck 54/8 goods this day from F. & Mclan. on my order.\n              Desired Colo. Bell to pay \u00a329\u20130\u20136 for me to John Clarke cabinet maker, in full principal & interest for a debt due him ever since 1781.\n              Pd. David Barnet in full for sawing 3/.\n              Haden\u2019s two men come into my service this day. I gave my note for \u00a336. payable in hire at the end of the year to be counted from the day they come.\n              Pd. Silknitter on acct. 7.D. and gave him an order on Colo. Bell for goods.\n              Sent Willet for butter 12/.\n              Gave TMR\u2019s Billy & Nat for bringing up wine 2.D.\n              Pd. Willis for butter 13/ which is 2/ over.\n              Gave James Hemings on his emancipation to bear exp. to Philada. 30.D.\n              Gave D. Watson order on Flem. & Mclanahan for hat & overalls.\n              Inclosed to Dr. Turpin order on C. Johnston & co. for \u00a315. for a debt & interest due him for attending my people at Elk hill after the departure of the British army.\n              Settled with D. Watson. His year (makg. up lost time) ends on the 5th. inst.\n              Balance due him \u00a35\u20131\u20139\u00be but there is an article in the acct. (Feb. 26. ante) not carried out, and so to be taken into our next year\u2019s acct.\n              Pd. Mr. Bailey on acct. 7.D.\n              Purchased of F. Walker all the corn he has to spare. He is to fix the price from 20/ to 24/. He is to waggon it and to charge for that 15/ per load.\n              Recd. from Flem. & Mclanahan 20.D. nail money.\n              Recd. from Reeves an order on James Brown for \u00a3215. payable Apr. 1. money paid by Carter & Catlett towards the price of Colle. Credit this to Mazzei.\n              Inclosed the sd. order to J. Wickham towards satisfying my portion of the decree of Bevins\u2019s represent. agt. Mr. Wayles\u2019s represent. as securities for R. Randolph. (Note this was inclosed on the 13th.)\n              Gave T. Kindred ord. on Flem. & Mclan. for 35/ out of my nail money for bringing up a hhd. molasses wt. 14. C @ 2/6.\n              Gilliam agrees to give me the refusal of what corn he can spare at the price then to be current.\n              Pd. Phill for Silknitter 3.D.\n              Debit TMRandolph 300. \u2114 my tobo. put into his hhd. in Bedford.\n              Drew on Barnes for 400.D. in favor of Charles Johnston & co. which debit them & credit to W. Short.\n              Gave G. Divers ord. on Flem. & Mclanahan butcher\u2019s acct. 57/9.\n              Pd. Rob. Sharpe 4.D. in full for his claim of land on the N. side the 3. notchd. road adjoing. my limestone land. \n              Gave Geo. Divers order on Chas. Johnston for 120.D. on TMR\u2019s acct. which debit to TMR.\n              Recd. nail money from Flem. & Mclanahan \u00a313\u20136\u20131.\n              Pd. Wilson Nicholas 2\u00bd b. clover seed \u00a37\u201315 which was 20/ over.\n              Pd. Mrs. Willis for butter 15/ which was 1/6 over.\n              Charge Watson ord. on Flem. & Mclan. a bed tick &c. \u00a31\u201316\u20137.\n              Recd. of Arch. Stuart in full for books 70.75. Note he has paid 7/6 for the taxes of my lands at Natural bridge for the years 1792.3.4.\n              Pd. Wm. Chapman in full 9.5.\n              Gave Watson an order on Snelson for 2.D. to Peter.\n              Repaid George Faris toll he had paid on nailrod 17/8.\n              Charge D. Watson my ord. on Flem. & Mclan. to Isabel 52/ also cash to her now paid 3/.\n              Gave D. Watson ord. on Flem. & Mclan. for 2.D.\n              Pd. dinner at Price\u2019s 4/6.\n              Pd. Richd. Johnson on acct. 16.15.\n              Gave Charles Jouett ord. on Charles Johnson & co. for 20.17.D. for TMR\u2019s taxes which debit to him.\n              Gave Thomas Walker an order in favor of Rob. Barclay on J. Barnes for 27.31 due him from TMR. & took in TMR\u2019s note. Debit him, and credit W. Short.\n              Pd. to Fleming & Mclanahan \u00a34\u201316\u20135 for Bybee for bringing bacon &c. from Columbia 120. hams, 120. shoulders. 120. midlings.\n              Gave Page to buy hemp seed 3.D.\n              Recd. back from Wm. Page 2/6.\n              Pd. Mr. Bailey for expences to Staunton 6.D.\n              Pd. Liptrap for bringing 10. C nailrod from Gamble & Temple 45/.\n              Recd. from Samuel Clarke for nails \u00a326\u20138\u20137.\n              Recd. back from Mr. Bailey of the money for expences 16/2.\n              Sent Richd. Johnson on acct. 15.D.\n              Gave Mrs. Nowland in charity 2.D.\n              Sm. exp. 3/\u201415. Do. 2/\u2014gave Millar\u2019s waggoners 6/.\n              Do. 1/6\u2014debit F. Walker 112 \u2114 of the Xd nails sent T. Walker.\n              Gave F. Walker order on Charles Johnston for \u00a355. to buy 50. barrels corn for me of Terril in Madison county.\n              My first pipe of Termo is out. Begun upon soon after I came home to live from Philadelphia.\n               There will be due to John Dobson on the 1st. day of June \u2003on my bond for \u00a3353\u201319\u20136 to Far. & J. assd. him \u00a349\u201313\u20130   \u2003on my old excha. on do. in favr. Faulcon for \u00a3300 44\u2013\u20025\u20137   Gave therefore order to R. Dobson on Chas. Johnston for\u2003\u2003\u2003 93\u201318\u20137   \n              Gave Gamble & Temple ord. for \u00a364\u201310\u20136 on Charles Johnston to pay for groceries & nail rod.\n              Inclosed to Saml. Howell junr. & co. of Phila. order on J. Barnes for 100 D. on acct. for iron which credit to W. Short.\n              Paid Will Beck on acct. 4.D.\n              Charge David Watson order on his acct. to Flem. & Mclan. for 8/ in favor Billy chicken.\n              Pd. John Buck on acct. 2.D.\n              F. Walker returns to me the ord. of the 20th. inst. on Chas. Johnston for \u00a355.\n              Gave John Watson an order for \u00a355. on Chas. Johnston and recd. that sum in cash from him.\n              Sent the sd. sum of \u00a355. by Wm. Page to F. Walker to procure the corn before proposed.\n              I had assumed the last year to pay a debt of Pet. Derieux to John Watson, Derieux agreeing to let me have his land on Buck island (307. as.) at an indemnification. I allowed him \u00a375. for it. I now transfer my claim to the land to John Watson in discharge of Derieux\u2019 debt which settled to this day is \u00a371\u201312\u20136 and Derieux is to make the deed to him so that I am cleared with the loss of \u00a33\u20137\u20136 only.\n              John Steele begins to work @ 9/ per day.\n              Gave Phill for exp. to Rockfish gap 2/9.\n              Pd. Will Beck on acct. 3.D.\n              Pd. Willis\u2019s son for 6\u00bd \u2114 butter 6/.\n              Sent Bushrod Washington order on Chas. Johnston for \u00a35. fee in defending Rand. Jefferson\u2019s land.\n              Sent do. order on do. 31.D. for right money for same lands.\n              Received from Colo. Coles on acct. of nails \u00a34\u201311.\n              Settled with Robert Garland atty. for\n              \u2003\u2003Thos. Cobbs\u2005judgmt.\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003\u200322\u201316\u20136costs6\u20134\u201310\u2003gave him order on Chas. Johnston for amount29\u20131\u20134 \n              Recd. of Nathanl. Anderson 40.D. in part of his bill on Wm. Anderson remitted by me to V. Staph. & Hub. of Amsterdam for Mazzei & returned under protest.\n              Paid\u2003\u2003Slaughter the surveyor for R. Jefferson for copy works 1/6.\n              Exp. at Charlvlle. 7\u00bdd.\n              Pd. Petit in part of last year\u2019s wages 50.D.\n              Gave Francis Walker an order on Chas. Johnston & co. for 200.D. in part pay for corn.\n              Gave T. Carr draught on Chas. Johnston for 80.D. and recd. cash for it.\n              Recd. from J. W. Eppes a horse (Darlington) for which I am to credit Mr. Wayles\u2019s estate \u00a365. he having recd. that much of the estate\u2019s money on my acct. The horse is 7. y. old.\n              Sent Richd. Johnson D.7.35 in full for waggonage reserving right to resettle our antient acct.\n                Pd. Wm. Hunt\u2005 for David Watson cash 0\u201312\u20137    ord. on T. Carr for nails\u2003\u2003 2\u20131\u20135 2\u201314\u2013  \n              Gave Buck order on Hunt for a pair of shoes.\n              Paid Benj. Coopwood for Anne Key \u00a39\u20137 towds. corn I bot. of her.\n              Recd. from Saml. Clarke (by Colo. Bell) \u00a359\u20135\u20131\u00bd.\n              Pd. Bourne Price 3/ for a dinner of some time ago.\n              Pd. W. Beck in full for burng. lime &c. \u00a33\u201316\u20139.\n              Recd. back from D. Carr stocking money 1.5 ante Mar. 2. 1795.\n              Accepted Fleming & Mclanahan\u2019s order on me in favor of TMRandolph for \u00a3100. and paid it to TMR as follows.\n                \u2003Order on Dr. Johnston of Staunton\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003 19\u20133\u20135   Order on Chas. Johnston & co. 50\u20130\u20130   Cash now paid him 30\u201316\u20137 100\u20130\u20130  \n              Pd. Wm. Page \u00a37\u201310 boot in exchange of a horse for a mare.\n              Pd. Mr. Wirt 5.D. fee in Cobbs\u2019s suit agt. me.\n              Sent John Barnes power of Atty. to recieve Mr. Short\u2019s interest due July 1. and inclosed to Saml. Howell junr. a draught on Barnes for 300.D. paiable July 2. for iron.\n              Pd. Slaughter, surveyor, for R. Jefferson 1.D.\n              Pd. sm. exp. 1.D.\u2014gave Davy for exp. going with Volney 2.D.\n              Gave a servt. of W. C. Nicholas for bringg. up Darlington 1.D.\n              Pd. John Faris for Henry Massie for transportn. \u00a33\u20133\u20139.\n              Pd. Joseph Moran for Wm. Holman witness in suit v. Lewis 4.5.\n              Pd. do. for TMRandolph 1.63.\n              Pd. Micajah Chiles for 17 \u2114 mutton @ 4\u00bdd 6/3.\n              Expences at Charlottesville 1/6.\n              Gave Hopkins Mr. Millar\u2019s waggoner 1.1.\n              Paid J. Steele 7.D. & gave him ord. on Nat Anderson for 30.D. which if paid, as also 58/ he assumed for N. Anderson is to be credited to N. Anderson as part paimt. of his bill in favr. of Mazzei protested, and I must debit myself to Mazzei.\n              Pd. Mr. Giles for having had Patsy\u2019s watch mended 4.D.\n              Wapping, Joe & Jame three negro men from TMR. begin to work.\n              Desired Charles Johnston to remit 42.06 to George Howell junr. & co. on my acct. which pays him in full for iron.\n              Settled with Flem. & Mclanahan down to Apr. 1.\n                \u2003the Amount of debits was \u00a3448\u201313   \u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003of Credits 314\u20131\u20139   balance due them 134\u201311\u20133 of this I had paid ante June 16. to TMR on their order100\u20130\u2013and now gave them order on my nail fund in their hands for34\u201311\u20133which liquidates & pays to the 1st. of April.134\u201311\u20133Colo. Bell\u2019s acct. brought down to May. 1. isAmt. of Debits\u00a0\u00a396\u201311\u20130\u00bd\u2003\u2003\u2003of Credits\u00a073\u201316\u20138balance due to him22\u201314\u20135  \n              for which sum I gave him an order on Thos. Carr to be paid out of my nail money in his hands.\n              Borrowed of Flem. & Mclanahan 16.43 D.\n              Pd. Isaac Millar (by his waggoner) 20.D.\n              Drew on Charles Johnston & co. in favor of Darmsdadt for \u00a327. to pay for 12. barrels of herrings.\n              I recieve notice from Charles Johnston & co. that Patrick White has paid up the balance due to me from J. Bannister\u2019s estate, which closes that matter. The balance was \u00a363\u20133\u20138.\n              Drew on Chas. Johnston & co. for \u00a350. in favor of Gamble and Temple, which discharges my balance to them fully.\n              Gave Rob. Bailey order on Flem. & Mclan. for 30/.\n              Recd. of Nat. Anderson for Mazzei on his protd. excha. 40.D.\n              Paid Micajah Chiles for 51\u00bd \u2114 mutton @ 4\u00bdd 19/4.\n              Repd. Flem. and Mclan. the 16.43 borrowed ante July 23.\n              John Watson assumes \u00a36. rent due from Lively to Mr. Short. Credit Mr. Short\u2019s acct. accordingly & debit J. Watson\u2019s.\n              Gave D. Watson order on J. Watson for goods. See bill 41/4.\n              Pd. Dabney Carr for soap 3/.\n              Drew order on Saml. Clarke in favr. of Silknitter for \u00a310\u20138\u20139 in full.\n              Drew order on Chas. Johnston in favr. of Rob. Pleasants for an old balance due T. Pleasants of 4. mi. cr. for \u00a33\u20132\u201310\u00bd.\n              Adams (brickmaker) begins @ \u00a35. a month.\n              Borrowed of Flem. & Mclanahan 35.D.\n              Pd. Clarkson for a horse 9. years old 35.D.\n              Bought a white horse of Joshua Burras for \u00a311. paiable at Christmas.\n              Furnished Stephen Willis a pr. shoes 12/6.\u200311\u00bc yds. oznabrigs @ 1/10.\n              Bot. of Lively a beef weighg. 113. \u2114 @ 3d. which with the 5th. quarter will be 35/4.\n              Recd. from Rand. Jefferson a negro boy Ben, Peter\u2019s son who is to be valued by John Coles & James Cocke, and I am to pay the valuation to Donald & co. in discharge of their acct. agt. him.\n              Recd. from Kinsolving 40.D. to be credited on his bond, which being one of those destined to Jas. Lyle, forward the money to him.\n              Pd. Flem. & Mclanahan the 35.D. borrowed ante Aug. 31.\n              Agreed with Robert Chuning to serve me as overseer at Monticello for \u00a335. and 600. \u2114 pork. He is to come Dec. 1. \n              Delivd. Saml. Carr 50. bush. wheat. He is to allow me what I sell the rest of my crop for & to pay me in corn.\n              Credit Nat. Anderson 47/ for Wm. Jones who furnished me that value in meat, on acct. of his protestd. bill to P. Mazzei.\n              Recd. from Nat. Anderson cash in full for the bill \u00a327\u201313\u20132 on acct. of P. Mazzei. (This was by mistake an overpaimt. of 18/5 to be repaid him.)\n              Pd. Richard Richardson 3/.\n              Pd. T. Garth\u2019s son for 162. \u2114 beef @ 4d. 56/, which is 2/ over.\n                W. C. Nicholas lodges with Kelly for me\u2003\u2003 \u00a360. to be credited Kinsolving.   \u2003also balce. of my nail acct. agt. him \u00a315\u201315\u20137\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003    \u200275\u201315\u20137   \n              Gave Flem. and Mclanahan order on Kelly for \u00a326. This was to pay for 2. horses bought for me by Page of Capt. Grissum.\n              Pd.\u2003\u2003Faris for George Faris \u00a35. for 5. M \u2114 brot. up before Jan. 1.\n              Drew on Van Staphorsts & Hubbard for 1000.D. in favor of Harrison and Sterrett of Philadelphia. See V.S. & H.\u2019s lre. \n              Drew on Harrison & Sterrett in favr. Peter Lott for 200. Dol.\n              Drew on Kelly in favr. Francis Taliaferro \u00a315. This was to pay a debt of Hugh Petit.\n              Pd. W. Beck for raising limestone in full 31/6.\n              Drew on Harrison & Sterett in favr. Chas. Johnston & co. for 500.D.\n              Gave Isaac Miller order on Kelly for 40.D.\n              Pd. Usher for David Watson 9 \u2114 Xd nails @ 1/.\n              Pd. Barnet 3 days waggoning 5.2 D.\n              Pd. Stephen Willis 9.D.\n              Drew on Harrison & Sterett in favr. John Barnes for 300.D.\n              Drew on Barnes in favr. Jos. Donath for 199.12 for glass. \n              Drew on Chas. Johnston & co. in favr. of T. Gordon for \u00a347\u201310\u20135 in full of an antient bond of mine to John Mclanahan.\n              Drew on do. in favr. John Watson for \u00a318\u201316. which discharges the balance of the last acct. rendered me for Mclure Brydie & co.\n              Pd. Buck to bear exp. to Goochld. 10/6.\n              Gave Frank Taliaferro depy. sher. order on C. Johnston & co. for 32.14 for dues in Fredericksville for 95. payable 96.\n              Gave Alex. Garrett order on Peter Lott for\n              Gave John Kelly order on Peter Lott for \u00a312\u20138\u201310 in full.\n              Pd. Richd. Richardson 2.D.\n              Sent Bushrod Washington ord. on C. Johnston & co. for \u00a35. a fee for Hastings Marks ads. Dickerson, which charge to Marks.\n              Settled with Bowling Clarke and recd. the balance of \u00a37\u201315\u20132\u00bd due me on the settlemt.\n                Recd.\u00a0of\u00a0Saml.\u00a0Clarke\u2005 \u00a321\u201316\u20136.   Repd.\u2005 Colo.\u00a0Bell\u2003\u2003 \u00a32\u2013\u20026\u20134    T.\u00a0Carr 2\u201319\u20132 5\u2013\u20025\u20136\u2005pd. by them for me to Frederic for meat furnished.  \n              Gave Frederic order on Lott for \u00a38. for meat.\n              Gave Isaac Millar ord. on Lott for 60.D.\n              Gave Wm. Wood by authority from James Lewis his guardian ord. on C. Johnston for \u00a330. towards hire of Patrick, Bob & Reuben.\n              Gave Shell ord. on Flem. & Mclan. \u00a35.\n              Gave Frederic Gauder ord. on Lott for \u00a39. for meat.\n              Drew on V. Staphorsts & Hubbard in favr. Harrison & Sterett 1000.D.\n              Paid Mrs. Key in full for corn of last year \u00a325\u20133\u201310.\n              Engaged of John Key 50. Bar. corn @ 11/ to be taken before Xmas.\n              Recd. back of TMR the 20.D. ante Oct. 21.\n              Inclosed to E. Randolph ord. on Charles Johnston for \u00a35. a fee for Rand. Jefferson for his land.\n              Pd. G. Divers\u2019s Will for 18. qts. of greensword seed @ 1/3 22/6.\n              Pd. Ursula for D. Watson 6/.\u2003pd. Watson cash 18/.\n              Engaged Wm. Cornelius\u2019s corn @ 11/.\n              Pd. Mr. Thomas for J. Steele 40/.\n              Pd. Wm. Reynolds for game 3/.\n              Charge Steph. Willis a pr. shoes for Ned 8/6.\n              Gave Richd. Johnson ord. on Chas. Johnston for 33.D. which leaves him in my debt for shoeing his horses.\n              Agreed to hire his waggon @ 15/ per day. If corn should riseabove 12/ so that he should think it necessary to raise the hire he is to give me previous notice.\n                 D.\u2005   Drew on Harrison & Sterett\u2005 in favr. of Chas. Johnston\u2003\u2003\u2003 200. Drew on do.in favr. of Peter Lott200.  \n              Settled with Mr. Bailey for the year 1795. balance due him \u00a39\u201313\u20139.\n              Gave him ord. on Lott for \u00a34. and on stores for goods.\n              Gave D. Watson ord. on stores for goods. (\u00a34\u20133\u20139. post)\n              Drew on Harrison & Sterett in favr. Saml. Howell junr. & co. 416 D. in full for 3. tons of nail rod.\n              Drew on Chas. Johnston in favr. of Tarlton Woodson sheriff for 71.04 D. in full for my dues of St. Anne\u2019s for last year payable this year.\n              Drew on Chas. Johnston in favr. of Tarlton Woodson on the order of John Key for 91.67 D. = \u00a327\u201310 for the 50. Bar. corn ante Oct. 31.\n              D. Watson has got goods \u00a34\u20133\u20139 from Mclure, Brydie & co. on my order of the 12th.\n              Recd. from Colo. Coles 25. galls. peach brandy.\n              Bought 15. barrels of corn more from Cornelius @ 12/.\n              Gave Hugh Petit ord. on Lott for 8.D.\n              Pd. Garner mending watch 3/.\n              Pd. Steph. Willis for John Steele 2.D.\n              Repd. J. W. Eppes patent fees for 2. tracts land in Bedford 4.36.\n                Pd. Isabel for do. 3.D. \u00a3\u2002\u2005   Gave Isaac Millar ord. on Clarke for Backstow\u2003 2\u201311\u20133   Paid him cash 7\u201310\u2013\u00bd Balance still due him35\u20130\u200237\u201319\u20131\u2013\u00bd  \n              Paid Mrs. Sneed in full for Tamar, Ned\u2019s Jenny, Iris & Mary 12 D.\n              Gave D. Watson ord. on Snelson for a rug &c. \u00a31\u20139.\n              Pd. Richd. Richardson 3/.\n                Settled with Stephen Willis as follows \u2003\u2003\u2003\u00a3   \u2003Amount of debets \u2003\u2003\u2003\u2003 95\u20138   \u2003Sundry credits  11\u2013\u20029\u2013\u20029\u00bd \u2003gave him ord. on Lott15\u2013\u2003do. on C. Johnston10\u201310\u2003assumd. to John Shell14\u2013\u20027\u2013\u20024\u2003balce. still due St. Willis44\u2013\u20020\u201310\u00bd95\u20138  \n              Note the above includes the Work of St. Willis, Ned, & Shell.\n                \u2003gave Shell order on Lott for\u2003\u2003 \u00a38\u2013   \u2003balance still due him \u20026\u20137\u20134    14\u20137\u20134   \n               Settled with Adams bricklayer. There is due to him for his own work\u2003\u200314\u201316\u20133 \u2003I am to pay him for Richd. Richardson\u2003\u2003 \u20024\u201318\u20139   \u2003gave him order therefore on Lott for 19\u201315\u2013  \n                Settled with Dr. Wardlaw. I owe him\u2003 \u00a314\u201314\u201311   Drew on John Barnes in his favor for 21\u2013   \u2003which overpays him 6\u2013\u20025\u2013\u20021    \n              Drew on Harrison & Sterett in favor of Barnes for the balance in their hands to wit 184.D.\n              Desired Barnes to pay Donath balance of glass 20.25 D. also to pay Mussi for 2. boxes of oil.\n                Recd. of Dr. Wardlaw in cash \u00a34\u20131\u2005   Allowed him for my sister Bolling 2\u20134\u2005   \u2003which settles the balance abovementd. of\u2003\u2003 6\u20135.   \n              Recd. from Samuel Clarke \u00a340\u201313\u20137 for nails sold.\n              Pd. Frederic Gauder \u00a340\u201319\u20137 in full to this day for meats furnished.\n                  \u00a3   Accepted Isaac Millar\u2019s ord. in favr. Flem. & Mclan.\u2002 for 15   Gave Millar an order on Flem. & Mclan. for 20 \u2003which pays the balance due him of\u00a335 \n              Inclosed to John Barnes power of atty. to recieve Mr. Short\u2019s interest due Oct. 1.\n              Directed him to place 100.D. of it to credit of Peter Lott.\n              Gave Richd. Richardson ord. on Lott for 18.D.\n              Paid Buck for Petit 3.D.\n              Inclosed to John Barnes a power of atty. to recieve W. Short\u2019s interest becoming due Jan. 1.\n              Drew on Barnes in favor of Chas. Johnston for 200.D.\n              Drew on Charles Johnston in favr. Stephen Willis for \u00a320.\n              Thos. Garth & James Kerr value the difference in the exchange of the small portions of land between N. M. Lewis & myself at \u00a316\u201315 boot in his favor. \n              Gave Joshua Burras an order on Mr. Lott for \u00a311. to pay for the horse bought ante Aug. 31.\n              Gave Wm. Page an order on Mr. Lott for \u00a313. to pay Thos. Massie for a horse.\n              Gave Elijah Hog an order on Mr. Lott for 48/9 to pay Saml. Hogg in full for waggoning.\n              Drew on John Barnes in favr. of Charles Johnston for 300.D. to be applied to pay the requisitions on Mr. Short\u2019s James river canal shares.\n              Gave J. H. Buck ord. on T. Carr for 2.D. which with 3.D. pd. him some days ago and omitted to be entered ante Dec. 16. discharges an order of Petit\u2019s on me in his favor for 5.D.\n              Jordan Harris produces to me my bonds to Lucy Wood for \u00a316. (hire of James) & to Mrs. Wood for \u00a315. (hire of Dick) assigned to David Clapton coachmaker in Richmond, & delivd. to Harris to whom I am to pay.\n              Charge D. Watson 15/9 furnished him by J. Watson on my acct. viz. for rum & mitts.", "culture": "English", "source_dataset": "Pile_of_Law", "source_dataset_detailed": "Pile_of_Law_founding_docs", "source_dataset_detailed_explanation": "Letters from U.S. founders.", "creation_year": 1796}
]