\ii / WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION MDCCLXXXIV— MDCCXCIX BTIFILLIAM SPOHN BAKER AUTHOR OF "itinerary OF GENERAL WASHINGTON, 1775" 1783," "EARLY SKETCHES OF GEORGE WASHINGTON," "EN- GRAVED PORTRAITS OF WASHINGTON," " MEDALLIC PORTRAITS OF WASHINGTON," ** CHARACTER PORTRAITS OF WASHINGTON," " BIBLIOTHECA WASHINGTONIANA," ETC. J. B. LIPPINCOTT COMPANY PHILADELPHIA MDCCCXCVIII :'■/ Or co,v,.■~~^: -N, <\--^-- m i '"i isyc 2nr! COPY, Copyright, 1898, BY Henry Whelen, Jr. 7619 //^' INTRODUCTORY NOTE. On tlae 23d day of December, 1783, Washington resigned his commission as Commander-in-Chief of the armies of the Revolution to the Congress of the United States, then in session at Annapolis, Maryland. After a simple but most impressive ceremony, made memorable by the singular beauty and dignity of his address, he left for Mount Ver- non, where he arrived toward the close of the following day. It was the evening before Christmas when Wash- ington returned to that home which through the long and weary struggle was ever in his mind, and where he hoped, to use his own words, " to spend the remainder of his days in cultivating the aflections of good men, and in the practice of the domestic virtues." But the end was not yet ! There was to be but a brief period of repose ; other and more trying years were before him ; other and more trying duties were to be imposed. But when they came, when the new duties and responsibilities were to be met, the old firmness and courage, judgment and decision, were displayed, and, strong alike in peace as in war, the great soul, responsive to the call, was found equal to the task. We propose, as a sequel to the Itinerarj^ of the Revolu- tion (1775-1783), to follow Washington through the remain- ing years of his life, keeping our notes as closely as possible to his personal movements, although at times it may be difficult to separate his public acts from those of a more private and personal nature. W. S. Baker. Philadelphia. (fO WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 1784. THURSDAY, JANUARY 1. At Mount Vernon : " The public and other papers, which were committed to your charge, and the books in which they have been recorded under your inspection, having come safe to hand, I take this first opportunity of signifying my entire approbation of the manner in which you have exe- cuted the important duties of recording secretary, and the satisfaction I feel in having my papers so properly arranged, and so correctly recorded." — Washington to Richard Varick. In the month of May, 1781, General Washington made arrangements, by authority of Congress, to have all his official papers recorded in volumes. He appointed Colonel Richard Varick to superintend this work,— to classify the papers according to a plan furnished by himself, and to engage such a number of copyists as he should deem expedient. These volumes, thirty- seven in number, containing transcripts of Washington's entire correspond- ence, official and private, from the beginning to the end of the Revolution, are now the property of the national government, and form one of the most valuable features of its archives. They were purchased with a large amount of other papers in August, 1834, from George Corbin Washington, to whom they were bequeathed by his uncle, Judge Bushrod Washington, the original devisee under the will of General Washington. SATURDAY, JANUARY 10. At Mount Vernon : " When you have finished my por- trait which is intended for the Count de Solms, I will thank you for handing it to Mr, Robert Morris, who will forward it to the Count de Bruhl (Minister from His Electoral High- 3 4 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1784 ness of Saxe at the Court of London), as the channel pointed out for the conveyance of it." — Washington to Joseph Wright, at Philadelphia. Under date of August 4, 1785, the Comte de Solms, " De la Fortress de Konigstein en Saxe," acknowledged the receipt of this portrait in the fol- lowing terms: "My General and ray Hero.— I have just received your picture, and I am entirely taken up to give it a sufficient embellishment by placing it between the King of Prussia and his illustrious brother Henry. You see that this is a trio very harmonical. ... It must be that the picture resembles, for I regard it as the greatest ornament of my fortress. ' ' The sittings for this portrait must have been given in December, 1783, Washington having been in Philadelphia from the 5th to the 15th of that month. Another portrait by Wright — a three-quarter length, presented by Washington to Mrs. Samuel Powel, of Philadelphia, and still in possession of the family at Newport, Rhode Island — may have been executed at the same time. It is signed and dated «' J. Wright, 1784." The Powel Portrait is known through an etching executed by Albert Rosenthal, the frontispiece to Baker's " Bibliotheca Washingtoniana, " Philadelphia, 1889. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14. At Mount Yernon : " I am truly sensible, Sir, that the extract from the instructions of the executive of Pennsyl- vania to their delegates, contains another most flattering proof of the favorable opinion they are pleased to entertain of my past services. Every repeated mark of the approba- tion of my fellow citizens, especially of those invested with so dignified an appointment, demands my particular ac- knowledgment. Under this impression, I cannot but feel the greatest obligations to the Supreme Executive Council of the commonwealth of Pennsylvania. But, as my senti- ments on the subject of their instructions have been long and well known to the public, I need not repeat them to your Excellency on the present occasion." — Washington to Thomas 3fifflin. Under date of December 16, 1783, the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania forwarded a paper to the delegates in Congress from that State, instructing them to bring to the early attention of Congress the fact that, as the admiration of the world might make the life of Washington in a very 1784] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 5 considerable degree public, and bis very services to bis country subject him to expenses, some testimonial of public gratitude would be proper under the circumstances. The instructions, drawn in a most delicate manner, were transmitted to Washington by President Mifflin before submitting them to Congress. The reply as given above, in accordance with his determination, made known when he received his commission as Commander-in-Chief, to accept no compensation from his country for his services other than his expenses, prevented any further action on the subject. SUNDAY, JANUAKY 18. At Mount Vernon : " The disinclination of the individual States to yield competent powers to Congress for the federal government, their unreasonable jealousy of that body and of one another, and the disposition, which seems to pervade each, of being all-wise and all-powerful within itself, will, if there is not a change in the system, be our downfall as a nation." — Washington to Benjamin Harrison. THUKSDAY, JANUAKY 22. At Mount Vernon : " If my commission [as Commander- in-Chief] is not necessary for the files of Congress, I should be glad to have it deposited among my own papers. It may serve my grandchildren., some fifty or a hundred years hence, for a theme to ruminate upon, if they should be contempla- tively disposed." — Washington to Charles Thomson. '^Annapolis, February 7th. — With respect to your commission, I have to inform you, that, previous to the receipt of your letter, it had been in agi- tation among the members to have an order passed for returning it to you in a gold box. A motion has accordingly been made to that effect, which was received with general approbation, and referred to a committee to be drawn up in proper terms. The committee have not yet reported. But I have not the least doubt of its being returned to you in a way, that will be satisfactory ; and I heartily wish, that this sacred deposit may be preserved by your children and children's children to the latest posterity, and may prove an incentive to them to emulate the virtues of their worthy and great progenitor." — Charles Thomson to Washington. This intention, it seems, was never fulfilled. The original commission was retained, and is deposited in the Department of State of the United States. 6 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1784 SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1. At Mount Vernon : " At length, my dear Marquis, I am become a private citizen on the banks of the Potomac ; and under the shadow of my own vine and my own fig-tree, free from the bustle of a camp, and the busy scenes of public life, I am solacing myself with those tranquil enjoyments, of which the soldier, who is ever in pursuit of fame, the states- man, whose watchful days and sleepless nights are spent in devising schemes to promote the welfare of his own, per- haps the ruin of other countries, as if this globe was insuffi- cient for us all, and the courtier, who is always watching the countenance of his prince, in hopes of catching a gracious smile, can have very little conception." — Washington to the Marquis de Lafayette. WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11. Leaves Mount Vernon : On this day Washington set out for Fredericksburg, to pay a visit to his mother, which had been delayed on account of the severity of the weather. He did not retul'n until the 19th. "We have been so fast locked up in snow and ice since Christmas, that all kinds of intercourse have been suspended ; and a duty which I owed my mother, and intended ere this to have performed, has been forced to yield to the intemperance of the weather." — Washington to Charles Thomson, Janu- ary 22. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20. At Mount Vernon : " I am just beginning to experience that ease and freedom from public cares, which, however desirable, takes some time to realize ; for, strange as it may seem, it is nevertheless true, that it was not till lately I could get the better of my usual custom of ruminating, as soon as I waked in the morning, on the business of the ensuing day ; and of my surprise at finding, after revolving many things in my mind, that I was no longer a public man, nor had anything to do with public transactions." — Washington to General Knox. 1784] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 7 THURSDAY, MAECH 25. At Mount Vernon : "I will frankly declare to you, my dear Doctor, that any memoirs of my life, distinct and un- connected with the general history of the war, would rather hurt my feelings than tickle my pride whilst I live. I had rather glide gently down the stream of life, leaving it to posterity to think and say what they please of me, than by any act of mine to have vanity or ostentation imputed to me." — Washington to Dr. James Qraik. The letter from which the above extract is made was in reply to an ap- plication made by a Mr. Bowie, through Dr. Craik, for permission to ex- amine such papers as would be necessary to enable him to prepare a memoir of the General, which he had in contemplation. Washington, deeming it improper to have the papers connected with his career during the Revolu- tion made public until Congress thought proper to open its archives to the historian, and as, in his opinion, no accurate history of his life could be written without consulting them, denied the request, not unwillingly, as it appears. MONDAY, APRIL 12. At Mount Vernon : " The estate of General Washington not being more than fifteen leagues from Annapolis I ac- cepted an invitation that he gave me to go and pass several days there, and it is from his house that I have the honor to write to you. After having seen him on my arrival in this continent, in the midst of his camp and in the tumult of arms, I have the pleasure to see him a simple citizen, enjoy- ing in the repose of his retreat the glory which he has so justly acquired. . . . He dresses in a gray coat like a Virginia farmer, and nothing about him recalls the recollection of the important part which he has played except the great number of foreigners who come to see him." — Chevalier de la Luzerne to Rayneval^ April 12, 1784. SATURDAY, MAY 1. At Philadelphia : "On Saturday last [May 1] his Excel- lency General Washington our late worthy and much re- 8 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1784 spected Commander in Chief arrived in the city, from his seat in Virginia." — Pennsylvania Gazette^ May 5, 1784. "On Saturday, the first of May, the sons of St. Tammany* met at Mr. Pole's seat on Schuylkill in order to celebrate the day. The company having learned that general Washington dined with the financier general [Kobert Morris], they marched with the music before them to his door, where they halted and gave his excellency thirteen cheers, and at the same time thirteen cannon were fired on the banks of the Schuylkill." — Pennsylvania Packet, May 6, 1784. SATUKDAY, MAY 15. At Philadelphia : " We have been amazingly embarrassed in the business that brought us here. It is now drawing to a conclusion, and will soon be given to the public." — Wash- ington to Philip Schuyler. Washington visited Philadelphia at this time for the purpose of attending the first general meeting of the Cincinnati. The society met at the City Tavern, Second Street above Walnut, every morning at nine o'clock (Sun- days excepted) from Tuesday, May 4, to Tuesday, the 18th, when it adjourned. The session of the 18th was short, and Washington in all probability left for Mount Vernon the same day. The embarrassment in the business referred to by Washington arose from his desire to overcome the popular dissatisfaction excited by the institution of the society, produced mainly by the provision of hereditary distinction. He, therefore, submitted a paper to the meeting, suggesting alterations to the institution, and most of his suggestions were embodied in a proposed amended institution, which was recommended to the State societies for adop- tion. The State societies, however, regarding the prevailing excitement as a passing storm, withheld their approval and ratification of the proposed amendments, and the society stands now on the same footing that it did on its organization in 1783. * This society, organized for social purposes, took its name from Tama- NEND, an ancient Indian chief of the Lenni Lenape confederacy, remark- able for his good and noble qualities. The fame of this great man extended among the whites, and in the Revolutionary war his admirers among the Pennsylvania troops established him as the Patron Saint of America, under the name of St. Tamany. His festival was celebrated on the first day of May in every year. The noted political organization of New York, the " Tammany Society," derives its name from this chief. 1784] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 9 FKIDAT, MAY 21. At Annapolis, Maryland : " His excellency general Wash- ington arrived at Annapolis from Philadelphia the 21st. ult. and the next day set oft* for his seat in Virginia." — Pennsyl- vania Packet, June 8, 1784. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 2. At Mount Vernon : " I did not hear of your late appoint- ment until I arrived at Annapolis, where I remained but one day, and that occasioned by the detention of my car- riage and horses on the Eastern Shore." — Washington to David Humphreys. David Humphreys, of Connecticut, an aide to Washington from 1780 until he resigned his commission, accompanied him on his return to Mount Vernon, where he remained until the middle of January. He was the last officer of the army to take leave of the General. On the 12th of May, Colonel Humphreys was appointed secretary to the commission for negotiating treaties of commerce with foreign powers. He sailed from New York for France in July. The commission was composed of Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson. THUKSDAY, JUNE 24. At Alexandria, Virginia : Attends the Masonic festival of St. John the Baptist, and dines with the Master and breth- ren of Lodge INo. 39. The following record was made : " The Worshipful Master, with the unanimous consent of the brethren, was pleased to admit his Excellency General Washington, as an honorary member of Lodge Ko. 39." MONDAY, JULY 5. At Mount Vernon : " The General being in want of a House Joiner & Bricklayer who understand their respec- tive trades perfectly, would thank Mr. Rumney for en- quiring into the terms upon which such workmen might be engaged for two or three years." — Washington to William Rumney. At this time Washington was engaged in the prosecution of improve- ments at Mount Vernon, the principal being additions to the house origi- 10 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1784 nally built by Lawrence "Washington (1744), which was of the old gable- roofed style, with only four rooms upon each floor. It was about one-third the size of the present building, and in the alteration it was made to occupy the central portion, the two ends having been built at the same time. The mansion, when completed by General Washington, at the close of 1785 (and as it now appears), was of the most substantial framework, two stories in height, ninety-six feet in length, thirty feet in depth, with a piazza fifteen feet in width, extending along the eastern or river front. Mr. "William Rumney, a shipping merchant of Alexandria, to whom the above-quoted letter was addressed, was about to leave for England, and hence the request. THURSDAY, JULY 15. At Mount Vernon : Answers an address of the General Assembly of Virginia, voted on the 22d of June, and pre- sented to him at Mount Vernon, a few days afterward, by a joint committee of the two Houses, headed by James Madison. FRIDAY, AUGUST 20. At Mount Vernon : " I thank you for your favor of the 16th of June by the Marquis de Lafayette, who arrived here three days ago." — Washington to Count de Rochamheau. Lafayette arrived at New York on the 4th of August, after a passage of thirty-four days from France. He remained a short time in New York to receive the congratulations of the citizens, and also in Philadelphia, and then hastened forward to Mount Vernon, which place he reached, as stated, on the 17th. He stayed at Mount Vernon twelve days. "WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1. Leaves Mount Vernon : " September 1. — Having found it indispensably necessary to visit my Lauded property West of the Apalacheon Mountains, and more especially that part of it which I held [in Fayette County, Pennsylvania] in Co- partnership with M"" Gilbert Simpson. — Having determined upon a tour into that Country, — and having made the neces- sary preparations for it, — I did, on the first day of this Month (September) set out on my journey. 1784] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 11 " Having dispatched my equipage about 9 o'clock A.M. ; consisting of 3 Servants & 6 horses, three of which carried my Baggage, I set out myself in company with Doctor James Craik ; and after dining at M' Sampson Trammells (ab' 2 Miles above the Falls Church) we proceeded to Difficulty Bridge, and lodged at one Shepherds Tavern 25 Miles." — Washingto7i's Diary. " September 2. — About 5 o'clock we set out from Shepherds ; and leaving the Baggage to follow slowly on, we arrived about 11 O'clock ourselves at Leesburgh where we Dined — The Baggage having joined we proceeded to M'' Israel Thompsons & lodged maks ab' 36 M. September 3. — Having business to transact with my Tenants in Berkeley ; & others were directed to meet me at my Brothers (Col° Charles Washington's*) I left Docf Craik and the Baggage to follow slowly, and set out myself about Sun Kise for that place — where after Breakfasting at Keys' ferry [on the Shenan- doah] I arrived about 11 O'clock— distant ab' 17 Miles. Col" Warner Washington,! M' Wormeley, Gen' [Daniel] Morgan, M'' Trickett and many other Gentlemen came here to see me. September 4. — Having finished mv business with my Tenants . . . and provided a Waggon for the transporta- tion of my Baggage to the Warm Springs (or Town of Bath) to give relief to my Horses, which from the extreme heat of the Weather began to Rub & gaul, I set out after dinner and reached Capt° Stroads a substantial farm- ers betw" Opecken [Opequan] Creek & Martinsburgh — distant by estimation 14 Miles from my Brothers. September 5. — Dispatched my Waggon (with the Baggage) at daylight ; and at 7 o'clock followed it. — bated at one Snod- grasses, on Back Creek — and dined there, about 5 o'clock P.M. we arrived at the Springs — or Town of Bath [now Berkeley Springs, Morgan County, West Virginia] after travelling the whole day through a drizling Rain, 30 Miles. ' ' — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 6. At Bath, Virginia : " September 6. — Remained at Bath all day, and was showed the Model of a Boat constructed by the ingenious M' [James] Rumsey for ascending rapid cur- * Charles Washington resided at what is now Charlestown, Jefferson County, West Virginia, laid out in 1786, and named from his Christian name. t A son of John Washington, the elder brother of Augustine, the father of General Washington. He resided at Fairfield, Frederick (now Clarke) County, Virginia. 12 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION [1784 rents by mechanism ; the principles of this were not only shown & fully explained to me, but to my very great satis- faction, exhibited in practice in private under the injunction of Secresy, until he saw the effect of an application he was about to Make to the Assembly of this State, for a reward. . . . Having obtained a Plan of this Town (Bath) and ascer- tained the situation of my lots therein . . . & M' Rumsey being willing to undertake those Buildings [a dwelling- house, kitchen, and stable], I have agreed with him to have them hnished by the lO*"* of next July." — Washington'' s Diary. " September 7. — Having hired three Pack horses — to give my own greater relief — I sent my Baggage of this day about one O'clock, and ordered those who had charge of it, to proceed to one Headricks at 15 Miles Creek, distant ah* ten Miles, to night, and to the old Town next day. September 8. — Set out about 7 o'clock with the Docf (Craik) his son William and my Nephew Bushrod "Washington, who were to make the tour with us, — about ten I parted with them at 15 Miles Creek, & recrossed the Potomack (having passed it ab* 3 Miles from the Springs before) to a tract of mine on the Vir- ginia Side, which I find exceedingly Kich, & must be very valuable. . . . After having reviewed this Land I again crossed the River [to Maryland] & getting into the waggon Road pursued my journey to the old Town where I overtook my Company & baggage — lodged at Col° [Thomas] Cresaps — ab' 35 Miles this day. September 9. — The day proving rainy we remained here [Old Town]. September 10. — Set off a little after 5 oclock altho' the morn- ing was very unpromising, — finding from the Rains that had fallen, and description of the Roads, part of which between the old Town & this place (old Fort Cumberland) we had passed, that the progress of my Baggage would be tedeous, I resolved (it being necessary) to leave it to follow ; and proceed on myself to Gilbert Simpson's. . . . Accordingly, leaving Docf Craik, his Son, and My Nephew with it, I set out with one Servant only — dined at M' Gwins at the Fort [ ? Fork] of the Roads leaving [ ? leading] to Winchester and the old Town, distant from the latter ab' 20 Miles & lodged at Tumbersons [Tumbelson] at the little Meadows [Somerset County, Penn- sylvania] 15 Miles further. September 11. — Set out at half after 5 oclock from Tumbersons, & in about 1^ Miles came to what is called the little crossing of the Yohiogany. . . . Breakfasted at one Mounts or Mountains, II Miles from Tumbersons ; the Road being exceedingly bad, especially through what is called the Shades of death. — Bated at the great crossing [of the Youghiogheny River or Braddock's road, now Somerfield] which is a large Water, distant from Mounts' 9 Miles, and a better Road than be- 1784] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 13 tween that and Tumbersons — Lodged at one Daughertys a Mile & half short of the Great Meadows . . . distant from the crossing 12 Miles." — Washing- ton's Diary. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 12. At Fayette County, Pennsylvania : " September 12. — ^Left Daughertys about 6 oclock — stopped awhile at the Great Meadows and viewed a tenement I have there ... is a very good stand for a Tavern. Dined at M' Thomas Gists [Mount Braddock] at the Foot of Laurel, distant from the Meadows 12 Miles, and arrived at Gilbert Simpsons about 5 oclock 12 Miles further." — Washington's Diary. The tenement at Great Meadows, in what is now Wharton Township, Fayette County, Pennsylvania, and which Washington considered " a very good stand for a Tavern," was on a tract of land containing two hundred and thirty-four acres, acquired by him in 1767. It included the site of Fort Necessity, a stockade hastily constructed by Washington, when a colonel in the Virginia service, to resist the attack of a superior body of French and Indians under the command of M. Coulan de Villiers, and made memorable by its surrender to that officer on July 3, 1754. The entire tract was sold by the executors of the last will and testament of Washington to Andrew Parks, of Baltimore. In the notes to the schedule attached to the will this property is referred to as follows : " This land is valuable on account of its local situation and other properties. — It affords an exceeding good stand on Braddock 's Road from Fort Cumberland to Pittsburgh and besides a fertile soil possesses a large quantity of natural meadow fit for the scythe. — It is distinguished by the appellation of the Great Meadows, where the first action with the French in the year 1754 was fought." MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13. At Fayette County, Pennsylvania : " September 13. — I vis- ited my Mill, and the several tenements on this Tract (on which Simpson lives) — I do not find the land in general equal to my expectations of it." — Washington's Diary. The tract referred to, "on which Simpson lives," comprised about six- teen hundred acres, and was situate at and near the present town of Pen-y- opolis, Perry Township, Fayette County, Pennsylvania. It was located for Washington by Captain William Crawford in 1769, and was visited by him in 1770. Gilbert Simpson, who had superintended the erection of a mill on 14 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1784 the premises, which, however, was not finished until the spring of 1776, seems also to have been a copartner in the management of the estate. The property was sold in 1795 to Colonel Israel Shreve, of New Jersey, under articles of agreement, and in 1802 the executors of the last will and testa- ment of "Washington conveyed it to the heirs of Colonel Shreve, who had died in 1799. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14. At Fayette County, Pennsylvania: '-^September 14. — Re- mained at M' Gilbert Simpsons all day, — before ISToon Col° W" Butler and the officer Commanding the Garrison at Fort Pitt a Capt° Lucket came here — as they confirmed the reports of the discontented temper of the Indians and the Mischiefs done by some parties of them — and the former advised me not to prosecute my intended trip to the Great Kanahav^a, I resolved to decline it." — Washmc/ton's Diary. ^'September 15. — This being the day appointed for the Sale of my moiety of the Co-partnership Stock — many People were gathered (more out of curiosity I believe than from other motives) but no great Sale made. — My Mill I could obtain no bid for. September 16. — Continued at Simpsons all day in order to finish the business which was begun yesterday — Gave leases to some of my Ten*^' on the Land whereon I now am, September 17. — De- tained here by a settled Eain the whole day — which gave me time to close my Ace" with Gilbert Simpson, & put a final end to my Partnership with him." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18. At Washington County, Pennsylvania : " September 18. — Set out with Doct' Craik for my Land on Millers Run (a branch of Shurtees [Chartiers] Creek — crossed the Monon- gahela at Deboirs [Devore's] Ferry — 16 miles from Simp- sons — bated at one Hamiltons about 4 Miles from it, in Washington County and lodged at a Col° Cassons [Canon] on the Waters of Shurtees Creek — a kind, hospitable Man ; & sensible." — Washington's Diary. ^^ September 19. — Being Sunday, and the People living on my land ap- parently very religious, it was thought best to postpone going among them till to-morrow." — Washington's Diary. 1784] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 15 MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 20. At Washington County, Pennsylvania : " September 20. — Went early this Morning to view my Land & to receive the final determination of those who live upon it." — Washing- ton's Diary. The land on Miller's Run, in what is now Mount Pleasant Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, was held by Washington under a mili- tary patent from Lord Dunmore, Governor of Virginia. It comprised two thousand eight hundred and thirteen acres, and was described as "being in Augusta County, Vir. on the waters of Miller's Run, one of the branches of Chartiers Creek, a branch of the Ohio." A number of families (Scotch- Irish) had settled on this land, and Washington passed most of Monday, September 20, in endeavoring to arrange with them for the purchase of the whole tract. No agreement, however, could be made, and subsequently ejectment suits were brought, which were successful. The tract was sold in June, 1796, for twelve thousand dollars. Washington passed the night of the 20th at the house of Colonel John Canon, the site of the present Canonsburg, laid out in 1787. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21. Leaves Washington County : " September 21. — Accompa- nied by Col° Casson & Capt° Swearingin [sherifl:' of the county] who attended me to Debores ferry on the Monon- gahela which seperates the Counties of Fayette & Washing- ton, I returned to Gilbert Simpson's in the afternoon ; after dining at one Wickermans [Wickerham's] Mill near the Monongahela." — Washington's Diary. " September 22. — After giving instructions to Major Thomas Freeman re- specting his conduct in my business, and disposing of my Baggage which was left under the care of M' Gilbert Simpson ... I set out for Beason [Beeson] Town [now Uniontown, the county-seat of Fayette County] in order to meet with & engage M' Tho^ Smith to bring Ejectments & to prose- cute my Suit for the Land in Washington County. . . . Reached Beason Town about dusk (about the way I came) 18 Miles . . . my Baggage under the care of Docf Craik and Son, having, from Simpsons, taken the Rout by the New (or Turkey foot) Road as it is called (which is said to be 20 Miles near than Braddocks). . . . My Nephew and I set out about Noon [on the 23d], with one Col" Philips for Cheat River." — Washington's Diary. 16 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1784 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 23. At Fayette County, Pennsylvania : " September 23. — Ar- rived at Col° Philips ab' five oclock in the afternoon 16 Miles from Beason Town & near the Mouth of Cheat River. . . . " Septetnber 24. — Set of in the Morning of the 24"" (ac- companied by Col° Phihps) and crossed it [Cheat River] at the Mouth, as it was thought the River was too much swelled to attempt the ford a little higher up." — Washington's Diary. Washington passed the night of the 24th at the house of Captain Samuel Hanway, about three miles south of Cheat River, in Monongalia County, Virginia, now West Virginia. Captain Hanway was the surveyor of Mo- nongalia County. On the 25th he resumed his journey, setting out before sunrise and lodging that night in the rain, with no shelter or cover other than his cloak. On the 26th he reached a Mr. Logston's, and left a little after daybreak on the following day, crossing the Stony River after a ride of four miles, gaining at ten miles "the summit of the Alligany Mountain," and arriving at " Col" Abrah"" Hites at Fort pleasant on the South Branch [of the Potomac] about 35 miles from Logstons a little before the Suns setting," where he remained all of the next day, the 28th. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29. Leaves Fort Pleasant, Virginia : " September 29. — Having appointed to join Docf Craik and my Baggage at CoP "Warner Washingtons, but finding it required only one day more to take the Rout of M' Tho' Lewis's (near Stanton) ... I sent my Nephew Bushrod Washington to that place to request the Docf to proceed & accompanied by Capt° Hite son to the Colonel I set out for Rockingham, in which county M' Lewis now lives since the division of Augusta." — Washington's Diarg. The night of the 29th was passed on the North Fork of the Shenandoah, at the house of one " Fishwaters in Brocks gap, about Eight Miles from the foot of the Mountain — 12 from Rudibort's [where he had dined] & 36 from Colon' Hites," arriving at Mr. Lewis's on the 30th "about Sundown, after riding about 40 Miles — leaving Rockingham C House to the right about 2 Miles." Washington remained at Mr. Lewis's until October 2, setting off very early on that day, accompanied by Mr. Lewis, " to the foot of the bleu 1784] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 17 Ridge at Swift run gap, 10 Miles," where he baited and proceeded over the mountain, lodging at night at a Widow Yearly's, twelve miles farther. On the following day, October 3, he took breakfast at Culpeper Court-House, and lodged at Captain John Ashby's. MONDAY, OCTOBER 4. At Mount Vernon : " October 4. — Notwithstanding a good deal of Rain fell in the !N'ight and the continuance of it this morning (which lasted till about 10 oclock) I breakfasted by Candlelight, and Mounted my horse soon after day break : & having Capt" Ashby for a guide thro' the intricate part of the Road (which ought tho' I missed it, to have been by Prince William old Court H°) I arrived at Colchester,* 30 Miles to Dinner ; and reached home before Sun down ; having travelled on the same horses since the first day of September by the computed distances 680 Miles." — Wash- ingtoii's Diary. An interesting description of Washington and the life at Mount Yernon at this period has been written by Charles Varlo, an Englishman, who visited this country in 1784. Landing at Philadelphia on July 23 of that year, Mr. Varlo made an excursion to the eastward as far as Boston, and afterward journeyed to the southward, arriving at Mount Yernon in the month of October. The following is transcribed from vol. ii., p. 90, of his work, entitled "Floating Ideas of Nature, suited to the Philosopher, Farmer, and Mechanic," published at London in 1796 : " I crossed the river from Maryland into Yirginia, near to the renowned General Washington's, where I had the honour to spend some time, and was kindly entertained with that worthy family. As to the General, if we may judge by the countenance, he is what the world says of him, a shrewd, good-natured, plain, humane man, about fifty-five years of age, and seems to wear well, being healthful and active, straight, well made, and about six feet high. He keeps a good table, which is always open to those of a genteel appearance. He does not use many Frenchified congees, or flattering useless words without meaning, which savours more of deceit than an honest heart; but on the contrarj', his words seem to point at truth and reason, and to spring from the fountain of a heart, which being good of itself, cannot be suspicious of others, till facts unriddle designs, which evidently appeared to me by a long tale that he told me about Arnold's manoeuvres, far-fetched schemes, and deep-laid designs, to give him and his army up, above a month * Ten miles southwest of Mount Vernon. 2 C 18 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1784 before the affair happened ; and though he said he wondered at many things that he observed in Arnold's conduct, yet he had not the least suspicion of any treachery going on, till the thing happened, and then he could trace back and see through his intentions from the beginning ; which, from the General's behaviour to him, I am well apprized, seems to be the highest sin of ingratitude that a man could be guilty of. "The General's house is rather warm, snug, convenient, and useful, than ornamental. The size is what ought to suit a man of about two or three thousand a year in England. The out-offices are good, and seem to be not long built ; and he was making more offices at each wing to the front of the house, which added more to ornament than real use. The situation is high, and commands a beautiful prospect of the river which parts Virginia and Maryland, but in other respects the situation seems to be out of the world, being chiefly surrounded by woods, and far from any great road or thorough- fare, and nine miles from Alexandria in Virginia. The General's lady is a hearty, comely, discreet, affable woman, some few years older than himself; she was a widow when he married her. He has no children by her. The General's house is open to poor travellers as well as rich ; he gives diet and lodging to all that come that way, which indeed cannot be many, without they go out of their way on purpose. . . . " I have travelled and seen a great deal of the world, have conversed with all degrees of people, and have remarked that there are only two persons in the world which have every one's good word, and those are — the Queen of England and General "Washington, which I never heard friend or foe speak slightly of." SUNDAY, NOVEMBEK 14. At Richmond, Virginia : " Last Sunday [November 14], in the afternoon, came to this city, his Excellency General George Washington, Esq. The next day was ushered in with the discharge of thirteen cannon, when every countenance showed the most heartfelt gladness on seeing our illustrious and beloved General in the Capital of the State, and in the bosom of peace. In the evening the city was illuminated and every demonstration of joy was shown on the pleasing occasion. The corporation of the city waited on his Excel- lency with an address, which he answered." — Richmond jpajper^ N"ovember 20, 1784. " On Thursday [November 18], the merchants of the city gave an elegant dinner to his Excellency General Washington ; the same day came from Boston, the Marquis de la Fayette, accompanied with Captain Grandchain, 1784] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 19 of the navy of his most Christian Majesty, and the Chevalier Caraman. The two Houses of Assembly appointed committees to wait upon his Excel- lency and the Marquis de la Fayette, who severally addressed them." — Idem. FKIDAY, NOVEMBEK 19. At Richmond : " Last night [November 19] the corpora- tion of the city gave an elegant ball in honor to our illus- trious and much beloved visitor General Washington." — Richmond jpaper, [N'ovember 20, 1784. Washington visited Richmond for the purpose of meeting the Marquis de Lafayette, who, after leaving Mount Vernon in August, had made a tour of the Eastern States. At Boston he embarked on board the French frigate "Nymphe, " for the Chesapeake Bay, and landed at Yorktown. He met "Washington at Richmond on the 18th of November (as stated) and accom- panied him to Mount Vernon, where he made a second visit of about a week. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25. At Mount Vernon : " I have had the honor to receive your favor of the 11th of June, accompanied with your Remarks and Inquiries concerning America. The honorable mention, which you make of me in both, is far above my deserts. ... It is a matter of regret to me, that my want of knowledge in the French language will not allow me to become acquainted with all the beauties of your Spectator." — Washington to Joseph Mandrillon. Joseph Mandrillon was born at Bourg-en-Bresse, France, in 1742. Hav- ing embraced the mercantile profession, he established himself at Amster- dam, from whence he made a voyage to the United States, and afterward published the results of his observations in a 12mo volume, entitled " Le Spectateur Am^ricain," Amsterdam, 1784, a copy of which he seems to have sent to Washington. From his "Portrait of General Washington" in this book we make the following extract : " If ever mortal enjoyed his whole reputation during his lifetime, if ever a citizen has found in his own country a reward for his services and abilities, it is my hero ; every where feted, admired, caressed, he every where sees hearts eager to render him homage ; if he enters a town, or if he passes through a village, old and young men, women and children, all follow him with acclamations ; all load him with blessings ; in every heart he has a temple consecrated to respect and friendship. How I love to imagine to myself the French general (M. de Rochambeau) equally the idol and the 20 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1784 hero of his army, saying at table as he sat near Washington, that he had never known wbat true glory was, nor a truly great man, until he became acquainted with him. When America, overthrown by the dreadful revolu- tions of nature, shall no longer exist, it will be remembered of Washington, that he was the defender of liberty, the friend of man, and the avenger of an oppressed people. ' ' MONDAY, NOVEMBER 29. At Annapolis, Maryland : " On Monday, the 29th of No- vember, 1784, general Washington arrived at Annapolis, accompanied by the Marquis de la Fayette. On the day following, the general assembly of this State, being then in session, to manifest their gratitude and attachment to those distinguished men, directed an elegant ball to be provided for their entertainment. The evening was crowned with the utmost joy and festivity, the whole company being made happy by the presence of two most amiable and all-accom- plished men, to whom America is so deeply indebted for her preservation from tyranny and oppression." — Annals of Annapolis. At Annapolis, Washington bade a final adieu to Lafayette. From thence the marquis proceeded to Trenton, where Congress was then sitting, reach- ing that place on December 8. On the 25th of the month he embarked at New York for France, on board the frigate " Nymphe." SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5. At Mount Vernon : " I met the Marquis de La Fayette at Richmond — brought him to this place, conducted him to Annapolis, saw him on the road to Baltimore, and returned." — Washington to General Knox. " December 8. — The peregrination of the day in which I parted from you ended at Marlborough [Maryland] . The next day, bad as it was, I got home before dinner. In the moment of our separation, upon the road as I travelled, and every hour since, I have felt all that love, respect, and attachment for you, with which length of years, close connexion, and your merits have in- spired me. I often asked myself, as our carriages separated, whether that was the last sight I ever should have of you ?" — Washhigton to the Marquis de Lafayette. 1784] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 21 TUESDAY, DECEMBEK 14. At Mount Vernon : " The Assemblies of Virginia and Maryland have now under consideration the extension of the inland navigation of the rivers Potomac and James, and opening a communication between them and the western waters. They seem fully impressed with the political as well as the commercial advantages, which would result from the accomplishment of these great objects, and I hope will embrace the present moment to put them in a train for execution." — Washington to Richard Henry Lee. The importance of connecting the western with the eastern territory by a system of inland navigation had from an early period attracted the atten- tion of Washington, and prior to the Kevolution he had made some efforts to bring the subject to public notice. During his western trip in September the matter was constantly in his mind, and after his return he wrote a long letter to Benjamin Harrison, Governor of Virginia, in which he detailed the advantages, both in a commercial and political point of view, which might be derived from opening the Potomac and James Elvers as high as should be practicable. This letter was communicated to the Assembly of Virginia, and led to the organization of the James Eiver and Potomac Canal Companies. Thus it will be seen that during the first year after the close of the Revolution, "Washington set in motion that vast scheme of internal improvements which has had a powerful and salutary influence upon the destinies of the country. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23. At Annapolis : "I am here [since December 20] with General Gates, at the request of the Assembly of Virginia to fix matters with the Assembly of this State respecting the extension of the inland navigation of the Potomac, and the communication between it and the western waters." — Washington to the Marquis de Lafayette. An exact conformity between the acts of Virginia and of Maryland being indispensable to the improvement of the Potomac, Washington was requested to wait upon the Assembly of Maryland, in order to agree on a bill which might receive the sanction of both States. 22 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1784 TUESDAY, DECEMBER 28. At Annapolis : " The proceedings of the conference, and the Act & Resolutions of this Legislature consequent there- upon (herewith transmitted to the Assembly) are so full & explanatory of the motives which governed in this business, that it is scarcely necessary for me to say any thing in addi- tion to them ; except that this State seem highly impressed with the importance of the objects w'ch we have had under consideration, — and are very desirous of seeing them ac- complished. . . . " It is now near 12 at Night, and I am writing with an Aching head, having been constantly employed in this busi- ness since the 22d, without assistance from my Colleagues — Gen'l Gates having been sick the whole time & Co? Blackburn not attending." — Washington to James Madison. " I am just returned from Annapolis to which place I was requested to go by our Assembly (with my bosom friend Genl. G — tes, who being at Eich- mond contrived to edge himself into the commission) for the purpose of arranging matters and framing a Law which should be similar in both States, so far as it respected the river Potomack which separates them. I met the most perfect accordance in that legislature ; and the matter is now reported to ours, for its consideration." — Washington to General Knox, January 5, 1785. 1785. SATUKDAY, JANUARY 1. At Mount Vernon : " January 1. — Col" Bassett, who brought his daughter Fanny to this place to remain on the 24*'' of last Month set off on his return to the Assembly now sitting at Richmond." — Washington's Diary. Colonel Burwell Bassett, of " Eltham," New Kent County, Virginia, mar- rie for a second wife Anna Maria Dandridge, a sister of Mrs. Washington. His daughter Fanny married George Augustine Washington, a nephew of General Washington (son of his brother Charles), at Mount Vernon, October 15, 1785. MONDAY, JANUARY 3. At Mount Vernon : " January 3. — Docf Stuart — his wife — Betcy & Patcy Custis who had been here since the 27"" Ulto returned home." — Washington's Diary. " Betcy & Patcy Custis" (Eliza Parke and Martha Parke Custis) were the eldest children of Mrs. Dr. Stuart, by her first husband, John Parke Custis, the son of Mrs. Washington, who died November 5, 1781. The younger children, Eleanor (" Nelly") Parke and George Washington Parke, had been adopted by Washington and were living at Mount Vernon. With the exception of the latter, all the others were born at " Abingdon," a planta- tion on the Potomac River immediately above Alexandria, and where the family were living at this time. Dr. David Stuart married Mrs. Custis, who was the daughter of Benedict Calvert, of Mount Airy, Prince George's County, Maryland, in the fall of 1783. He was a frequent visitor at Mount Vernon, and was held in much respect by Washington. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 19. At Mount Vernon : " January 19. — Employed until din- ner in laying out my Serpentine Road & Shrubberies ad- joining. — Just as we had done dinner a M' "Watson — ^late of the House of Watson & Cossoul of Nantes — came in, and 23 24 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1785 stayed all Night. January 20. — M' Watson went away after breakfast." — Washington's Diary. "I had feasted my imagination for several days in the near prospect of a visit to Mount Vernon, the seat of Washington. No pilgrim ever ap- proached Mecca with deeper enthusiasm. I arrived there, in the afternoon of January 23d [?] '85. ... I found him at table with Mrs. Washington and his private family, and was received in the native dignity and with that urbanity so peculiarly combined in the character of a soldier and eminent private gentleman. He soon put me at ease, by unbending in a free and affable conversation. . . . "The first evening I spent under the wing of his hospitality, we sat a full hour at table by ourselves, without the least interruption, after the family had retired. I was extremely oppressed by a severe cold and exces- sive coughing, contracted by the exposure of a harsh winter journey. He pressed me to use some remedies, but I declined doing so. As usual after retiring, my coughing increased. When some time had elapsed, the door of my room was gently opened, and on drawing my bed-curtains, to my utter astonishment, I beheld Washington himself, standing at my bed-side, with a bowl of hot tea in his hand." — Memoirs of Elkanah Watson. THURSDAY, JANUAEY 27. At Mount Vernon : " January 27. — Made M'' k M" Lund Washington a morning visit — from thence I went to Bel- voir and viewed the ruined buildings of that place." — Washington's Diary. Lund Washington, manager of the Mount Vernon estate during the Rev- olution, was a third cousin of General Washington. He resided at " Hay- field, ■ ' a plantation about four miles northwest of Mount Vernon. ' ' Belvoir, ' ' the estate and residence of Sir William Fairfax, a cousin and agent of Lord Thomas Fairfax, the owner of an immense landed estate in the Northern Neck of Virginia, was situated on the Potomac, four miles below Mount Vernon. On the death of Sir William in 1757, it descended to his son George William Fairfax, the friend and neighbor of George Washington. Mr. Fairfax went to England in 1773, and died at Bath, April 3, 1787. As he had no children, "Belvoir" was devised to Ferdinando, the son of his brother, the Rev. Bryan Fairfax. The mansion-house was destroyed by fire shortly after his leaving America. WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2. At Mount Vernon : " February 2. — Employed myself (as there could be no stirring without) in writing Letters by the 1785] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 25 Post and in Signing 83 Diplomas for the members of the Society of the Cincinnati — and sent them to the care of Co? Fitzgerald in Alexandria — to be forwarded to General [Otho H.] Williams of Baltimore — the Assistant Secretary of the Society." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 5. At Mount Vernon : " Captain Haskell, in the ship Mary, arrived at Alexandria a few days ago ; but a frost, which at present interrupts the navigation of the river, has prevented my sending for the chimney-piece. By the number of cases, however, I greatly fear it is too elegant and costly for my room and republican style of living." — Washington to Benja- min Vaughan, at London. This chimney-piece, one of the special ornaments of the mansion at Mount Vernon, was originally made for Samuel Vaughan, a resident of London, and a great admirer of Washington. It was wrought in Italy from the finest white and sienite marhles for Mr. Vaughan 's own use. At the time of its arrival in England, that gentleman was informed of the im- provements then in progress at Mount Vemon, and, without unpacking it, he directed his son (Benjamin Vaughan) to send it at once to Washington. An interesting description of this work of art will be found in Lossing's " Mount Vernon and its Associations." SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 12. At Alexandria, Virginia: ^'•February 12. — Received an Invitation to the Funeral of W™ Ramsay Esq' of Alexandria — the oldest Inhabitant of the Town ; & went up — walked in procession as a free mason — M'' Ramsay in his life time being one & now buried with the ceremony & honors due to one." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22. At Mount Vernon : " February 22. — Removed two pretty large & full-grown lilacs to the l!^" Garden gate — one on each side taking up as much dirt with the roots as c** be well obtained. ... I also removed from the woods and old fields, several young trees of the sassafras, Dogwood & Redbud, to 26 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1785 the Shrubbery on the N" side the grass plot. February 28. — Planted all the Mulberry trees, Maple trees, k Black gums in my Serpentine walks — and the Poplars on the right walk." — Washington's Diary. Washington took great pleasure in planting trees and shrubbery, and the diaries of 1785-86 show that in these years he was much engaged in that business. On the west front of the mansion he laid out a fine lawn upon a level surface of about twenty acres, and around it made a serpentine car- riage-way, on each side of which he planted a great variety of shade-trees, some of which are still standing. The lawn, the oval grass-plot, and the gardens were laid out according to a plan drawn by himself, and still remain unchanged as to form. TUESDAY, MAKCH 8. At Mount Vernon : " Some imperfect miniature cuts I send you under cover with this letter. They were designed for me by Miss D' Hart of Elizabeth town, and given to Mrs. Washington, who, in sparing them, only wishes they may answer your purpose. For her I can get none cut yet." — Washington to William Gordon. A silhouette published in volume four of the illustrated edition of Irving's " Life of Washington," inscribed " From the original (cut with scissors) by Miss De Hart, Elizabeth town, N. J. 1783," is, we presume, a reproduction of one of the " imperfect miniature cuts" referred to in the above letter. It is extremely unlike any known profile of Washington. Miss De Hart vis- ited Mount Vernon in October, 1786. She remained from the 26th to the 28th. SUNDAY, MAKCH 20. At Mount Vernon : " March 20. — Major Jenefir came here to dinner — and my carriage went to Gunston Hall to take Co? Mason to a meeting of Com" at Alexandria for settling the Jurisdiction of Chesapeak Bay & the River Potomack & Pocomoke between the States of Virginia & Maryland. — The Commissioners on the Part of Virginia being Col" [George] Mason — The Attorney General [Ed- mund Randolph] — M' [James] Madison & M'^ [Alexander] Henderson — on that of Maryland, Major [Daniel of St. 1785] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 27 Thomas] Jenifer, Thom^ Johnson, Tho^ Stone & Sam^ Chase Esq". March 21. — Major Jenifer left this for Alexandria after Dinner." — Washington'' s Diary. TUESDAY, MAKCH 22. At Alexandria : " March 22. — Went to Alexandria — dined & returned in the Evening." — Washington's Diary. THUKSDAY, MARCH 24. At Mount Vernon : " March 24. — Sent my Carriage to Alexandria for Col" Mason according to appointment — who came in, about dusk. March 25. — About One o'clock Major Jenifer, M"" Stone, M"^ Chase, & M' Alex' Henderson arrived here. March 27. — M"^ Henderson went to Col- chester after dinner to return in the morning." — Washing- ton's Diary. MONDAY, MARCH 28. At Mount Vernon : " March 28. — M' Henderson returned to the Meeting of the Commissioners ab* 10 Oclock — and M'' Chase went away after dinner." — Washington's Diary. The commissioners,* after preparing the terms of a compact between Vir- ginia and Maryland for the jurisdiction over the waters of the Chesapeake Bay and the rivers that were common to both States, took up matters of general policy, and decided to recommend to the two States a uniformity of duties on imports, a uniformity of commercial regulations, and a uniformity of currency. From this resulted (January, 1786) a proposition from Virginia that a convention from all the States should be held to regulate the restric- tions on commerce for the whole, the commissioners to meet at Annapolis on the first Monday in September, 1786. The invitations to the States were made through the executive of Virginia, although Maryland had made (December, 1785) the first move in the matter. TUESDAY, MARCH 29. At Mount Vernon : " March 29. — Major Jenifer, M' Stone and M' Henderson went away before breakfast & * Three of the commissioners, Edmund Randolph and James Madison on the part of Virginia, and Thomas Johnson on the part of Maryland, were not present at any of the meetings either at Alexandria or Mount Vernon. 28 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1785 Col° Mason (in my Carriage) after it; by tlie return of whieh he sent me some young Shoots of the Persian Jessa- mine & Guilder Rose." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, APRIL 18. At Alexandria : " April 18. — Rid to Alexandria to the Election of Delagates for this County and dined at Col" Fitzgeralds — Co? Lynne & Doct' Stewart were chosen, — & for whom I gave my support." — Washington'' s Diary. THURSDAY, APRIL 21. At Abingdon, Virginia : " Ajoril 21. — After an early din- ner, I went up in my Barge to Abingdon, in order to bring M'' John Lewis (who had lain there sick for more than two months) down — Took my Instruments, with intent to Sur- vey the Land I hold by purchase on 4 Mile Run [three miles above Alexandria] of Geo : & Ja° Mercer Esqr^ Called at Alexandria & staid an hour or two." — Washington's Diary. ' ' April 22. — Took an early breakfast at Abingdon ; & accompanied by Docf Stewart & Lund Washington, and having sent for M' Moses Ball (who attended) ; I went to a Corner of the above Land, within about 3 poles of the Run (4 Miles Run) a white Oak, 18 inches in diameter, on the side of a hill ab' 150 yards below the Ruins of an old Mill & 100 below a small Branch which comes in on the N' E"^ side, — and after having Run one course & part of another. My Servant William * (one of the Chain Carriers) fell, and broke the pan of his knee w""* put a stop to my surveying ; & with much difficulty I was able to get him to Abingdon, being obliged to get a sled to carry him on, as he could neither Walk, stand, or Ride : — At M' Adams Mill I took Lund Washingtons horse & came home." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, APRIL 24. At Mount Vernon : " April 24. — An Express arrived with the ace* of the Deaths of M" Dandridge & M' B.[artholo- * William (" Billy") Lee was Washington's body-servant during the Rev- olutionary war. He survived his master, who, by his will, gave him his freedom and an annuity of thirty dollars. 1785] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 29 mew] Dandridge, the Mother and Brother of M" "Washing- ton." — Washington's Diary. THUKSDAY, APEIL 28. At Mount Vernon : " April 28. — To Dinner M'' Pine a pretty eminent Portrait & Historical Painter arrived in order to take my picture from the life & to plan it in the Historical pieces he was about to draw, — This Gentleman stands in good estimation as a Painter in England ; — comes recommended to me from CoP Fairfax — M' Morris — Gov' Dickenson — M' Hopkinson & others." — Washington's Diary. Kobert Edge Pine, a painter of considerable merit, was bom in London in the year 1742. He came to America in 1784, for the purpose of obtaining pori;raits of the heroes and patriots of the Eevolution, in order to introduce them in historical pictures commemorating the events of that period. Pine remained three weeks at Mount Vernon, leaving May 19, and besides that of "Washington, painted also the portraits of the two grandchildren of Mrs. Washington. He died at Philadelphia, November 19, 1788, before carrying out his design of painting the historical pictures. FKIDAY, APKIL 29. Leaves Mount Yernon : " April 29. — I set off for the ap- pointed meeting of the Dismal Swamp Company * at Eich- mond. — Dined at Dumfries & lodged at My Sister Lewis's t (after visiting at my Mother) in Fredericksburgh." — Wash- ington's Diary. '^^ April 30. — Dined at General [Alexander] Spotswoods, and lodged at M'' Jn" Baylor's (New Market). May 1 — Took a late breakfast at Hanover C House — Went from thence to M'' Peter Lyon's where I intended to dine, but neither he nor M" Lyon being at home, I proceeded to, & arrived at * In January, 1764, a company was formed and chartered by the Legisla- ture of Virginia for the purpose of draining and rendering fit for cultivation the Great Dismal Swamp, between Norfolk and Albemarle Sound. Wash- ington was one of the company. In October, 1763, he penetrated the swamp and examined it in various parts. f Washington's sister Betty married Colonel Fielding Lewis, of Fredericks- burg, in 1760. Colonel Lewis died December, 1781. 30 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1785 Kichmond about 6 oclock in the aftern" — Supped, & lodged, at the Govern- ors [Patrick Henry]." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, MAY 2. At Richmond : " May 2. — Received, and accepted an in- vitation to dine with the Sons of Saint Taminy, at M' Andersons Tavern, and accordingly did so, at 3 oclock. About IS^oon, having assembled a sufficient number of the Proprietors of the Swamp, we proceeded to business in the Senate Chamber; & continued thereon 'till dinner, when we adjourned 'till nine oclock next day." — Washington's Diary. '■'■May 3. — Met according to adjournment, & finished the business by 3 oclock — Dinner at the Governors. May 4. — After doing a little business, & calling upon Judge Mercer and the Attorney General, I left Kichmond about 11 oclock — Dined at one Winslow's ab* 8 Miles from the City, & lodged at Clarks Tavern 10 Miles above Hanover Court House. May 5. — Breakfasted at Bowling Green — Dined with my Sister Lewis in Fredericksburgh — spent half an hour with my Mother — and lodged at Stafford C* House (at one Taylors Tavern). May 6. — Breakfasted at Dumfries, & dined at home." — Washingtofi' s Diary. SUNDAY, MAY 15. At Mount Vernon : " May 15. — General [John] Cadwal- lader came here yesterday. May 17. — General Cadwallader went away after Breakfast." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, MAY 17. At Alexandria : " May 17. — I went to Alexandria to the appointed meeting of the Subscribers to the Potomack Navigation. Upon comparing & examining the Books of the different Managers, it was found, including the Sub- scriptions in behalf of the two States, & the 50 Shares which the Assembly of Virginia had directed to be Subscribed for me (& which I then declared I would only hold in trust for the State) that their were 403 Shares Subscribed; which being more than sufficient to constitute the Company under the Act — the Subscribers proceeded to the choice of a 1785] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 31 President & 4 Directors ; — the first of which fell upon me the votes for the other four fell upon [Ex] Governors [Thomas] Johnson & [Thomas Sim] Lee of Maryland — and Colonels [John] Fitzgerald & [George] Gilpin of this State. — Dined at Lomaxs and returned in the afternoon." — Washington's Diary. THUKSDAT, MAY 26. At Mount Vernon : " May 26. — Upon my return [from riding to the plantations] found M' Magowan, and a Doct' Coke & a M"" Asbury here — the two last Methodist Preachers recommended by Gen^ Roberdeau — the same who were ex- pected yesterday. . . . After Dinner M' Coke & M' Asbury went away." — Washingto7i's Diary. '■'■May 26. — Mr. Asbury [Francis Asbury, Bishop of the M. E. Church] and I set off for General Washington's. We were engaged to dine there the day before. The General's seat is very elegant ; built upon the great river Potomawk ; for the improvement of the navigation of which, he is carrying on jointly with the State some amazing Plans. He received us very politely, and was very open to access. He is quite the plain, Country-Gentleman. After dinner we desired a private interview, and opened to him the grand business on which we came, presenting to him our petition for the emancipa- tion of the Negroes, and entreating his signature, if the eminence of his station did not render it inexpedient for him to sign any petition. He in- formed us that he was of our sentiments, and had signified his thoughts on the subject to most of the great men of the State ; that he did not see it proper to sign the petition, but if the Assembly took it into consideration, would signify his sentiments to the Assembly by a letter. He asked us to spend the evening and lodge at his house, but our engagement at Annapolis the following day Avould not admit of it. We returned that evening to Alexandria." — Journal of the Rev. Thomas Coke. MONDAY, MAY 30. At Alexandria : " May 30. — I went to Alexandria to meet the Directors of the Potomack C" — Dined at Col" Fitzger- ald and Returned in the Evening." — Washington's Diary. SATUKDAY, JUNE 4. At Mount Vernon : " June 4. — In the Afternoon the cel- ebrated M" Macauly Graham & M"" Graham her Husband 32 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1785 arrived here. June 8. — Placed my Military Records into the Hands of M" Macauly Graham for her perusal & amuse- ment. June 14. — About 7 oclock M"^ Graham & M" Ma- cauly left this on their Return to New York — I accompanied them to M'" Digges's * to which place I had her Carriage & horses put over — M'Digges escorted her to Bladensburgh." — Washington's Diary. Mrs. Catharine Macaulay Graham, historian and controversialist, was the youngest daughter of John Sawbridge, Esq., of Olantigh, Kent, Eng- land. Her first husband (1760) was Dr. George Macaulay, her second (1778) "William Graham. Her most famous production was the " History of Eng- land from the Accession of James I. to that of the Brunswick Line," eight volumes, 1763-1783, which attracted great attention at the time, but has now dropped into oblivion. Her visit to America was solely for the purpose of seeing Washington, with whom she had previously maintained a corre- spondence. She died in 1791, at the age of sixty. THUKSDAY, JUNE 30. At Mount Vernon : " June 30. — Dined with only M'* "Washington which I believe is the first instance of it since my retirement from public life." — Washington's Diary. FEIDAY, JULY 1. At Alexandria : " July 1. — ^Went to Alexandria to a meet- ing of the Board of Directors, who by Advertisement were to attend this day for the purpose of agreeing with a Mana- ger and two assistants to conduct the Undertaking of the Potomack l!^avigation — but no person applying with proper Credentials the Board gave the applicants until thursday the 14th to provide these & for others to offer. " Returned in the Evening accompanied by CoP Bassett & Col" Spait [Richard D. Spaight], a Member of Congress for the State of IST" Carolina." — Washington's Diary. * Mr. George Digges was a wealthy planter on the Potomac, in Prince George's County, Maryland. His estate, known as " Warburton," was in full view of the mansion at Mount Vernon, and the intercourse between the two families was frequent and very friendly. 1785] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 33 TUESDAY, JULY 5. At Mount Vernon : " July 5. — After dinner M"^ Gov- ourn' Morris and M' W° Craik came in." — Washington's Diary. '■'■July 6. — General [Benjamin] Lincoln & his Son came to Dinner & re- turned afterwards. July 7. — M''Govourn' Morris went away before Break- fast as did M"" Craik — Col" Bassett & M' Geo : Washington accompanied the former as far as Alexandria — M'' Arthur Lee came to Dinner, to which Col» Bassett & G. W. returned." — Washington's Diary. THUKSDAY, JULY 14. At Alexandria : " July 14. — Went through my Harvest field at Muddy hole to Alexandria, to a meeting of the Di- rectors of the Potomack Company — Agreed with M' James Rumsey to undertake the Management of our Works — and a M' [Richardson] Stuart from Baltimore as an Assistant — Gave them directions — passed some acc*^ — paid my quota of the demand for these purposes to M' [William] Hartshorne the Treasurer — Made M" Dalby a visit — and came home in the evening, " Found M' Bryan Fairfax * & his son Ferdinando here at my return who had come down before dinner." — Washing- ton's Diary. TUESDAY, JULY 26. At Mount Vernon : " July 26. — On my return [from din- ing with Lund Washington], found M'' Will Shaw whom I had engaged to live with me as a Book Keeper, Secretary &c. here." — Washington'' s Diary. Mr. Shaw remained at Mount Vernon in the capacity of book-keeper, etc., until August 25, 1786, when he left for Philadelphia, to embark for the West Indies. * Brother of George William Fairfax, of " Bel voir," and rector of Christ Church, Alexandria, 1790-1792. 3 34 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1785 WEDNESDAY, JULY 27. At Mount Vernon: ''July 27. — M"' Fendal, Miss Lee (eldest daughter of the Presid* of Congress) Miss N'ancy Lee, Grand daughter of Rich*^ Lee Esq' of Maryland — M' Cha' Lee — & M' Law* Washington, Lund Washington & their Wives — and M" Law* Washington, Son of Lawrence & M' Tho' Washington Son to Robert all dined here and went away in the Afternoon." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, AUGUST 1. At George Town, Maryland : " August 1. — ^Left home at 6 Oclock P. [? A.] M. and after escorting Fanny Bassett to Alexandria I proceeded to Docf Stuarts [at Abingdon] where I breakfasted; and from thence went to George Town to the Annual Meeting of the Potomack Company appointed to be held at that place. . . . Dined at Shuters [Suter's] Tavern, and lodged at M' Oneals." — Washington's Diary. '^August 2. — Left George Town about 10 Oclock, in Company with all the Directors except Gov' Lee. . . . We dined at M' Bealls Mill 14 Miles from George Town and proceeded to a M"^ Goldsboroughs, a decent Farmers House at the head of the Seneca Falls, — about 6 Miles and 20 from George Town. August 3. — Having provided Canoes and being joined by M' Rum- say the principal Manager, & M'' Stewart an assistant to him, in carrying on the Works, we proceeded to examine the falls ; and beginning at the head of them went through the whole by Water, and continued from the foot of them to the Great Falls. . . . Returned back by the way of M' Bealls Mill to our old Quarters at M' Goldsboroughs, — the distance as esti- mated 8 Miles. August 4. — Engaged nine labourers with whom to com- mence the Work." — Washington's Diary. FRIDAY, AUGUST 5. At Frederick Town, Maryland : " August 5. — After Break- fast, and after directing M' Rumsey when he had marked the way and set the labourers to work to meet us at Harpers ferry on the Evening of the Morrow (at the conflux of the Shannondoah with the Potomack) myself and the Directors set out for the same place by way of Frederick Town 1785] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 35 (Maryland) — Dined at a Dutchmans 2 Miles above the M* of Monocasy & reached the former about 5 oclock — Drank Tea — supped — and lodged at Gov' Johnsons." — Washing- ton's Diary. "In the Evening the Bells Rang, & Guns were fired; & a Committee waited upon me by order of the Gentlemen of the Town to request that I w"* stay next day and partake of a publick dinner which the Town were de- sirous of giving me — But as arrangements had been made, and the time for examining the Shannondoah Falls, previous to the day fixed for receiving labourers into pay, was short I found it most expedient to decline the honor." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, AUGUST 6. At Harper's Ferry : " August 6. — Breakfasted in Frederick Town, at Gov' Johnsons, and dined at Harpers Ferry — took a view of the River, from the Banks as we road up the bottom from Pains falls to the Ferry, as well as it could be done on Horse back. — Sent a Canoe in a Waggon from the Ferry to Keeptriest Furnace in ord' to descend the Falls therin to-morrow." — Washington's Diary. '■'■August 7. — About Sunrising, the Directors & myself Rid up to Keep- trieste, where Canoes were provided, in which we crossed to the Maryland side of the River and examined a Gut, or swash, through which it is sup- posed the Navigation must be conducted. . . . Having examined this pas- sage, I returned to the head of the fall and in one of the Canoes with two skilful hands descended them with the common curr* in its natural bed. . . . Here (at the Ferry) we breakfasted ; after which we set out to explore the Falls below ; ... At the foot of these Falls The Directors & myself (Gov' Lee having joined us in the Evening before) held a meeting. . . . Gov' Lee left us at this place — the rest of us returned to the Tavern at Har- pers Ferry." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, AUGUST 8. At Harper's Ferry : " August 8. — This being the day ap- pointed for labourers to engage in the work we waited to see the issue until Evening. . . . Many Gentlemen of the Neighbourhood visited us here to day. ... A few hands offered and were employed." — Washington's Diary. 36 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1785 "Having provided a light &, convenient Boat — hired two hands to work her — and laid in some Stores, Colonels Fitzgerald & Gilpin, and myself embarked in it about 6 Oclock P. M. In this Boat we passed through the Spout, and all the other Falls and Kapids, and breakfasted at a Capt° Smiths on the Maryland side ; to which place our horses had been sent the Evening before — after which and dining on our prog at Knowlands Ferry (about 15 Miles from Harpers) we lodged at the House of a M"" Taylor, about three Miles above the Mouth of Goose Creek, and about 10 M. below Knowlands. Aitgust 10. — Before Sun rise we embarked, and about Nine Oclock arrived at the head of the Seneca Falls and breakfasted with our old Landlord M'' Goldsborough to which place our horses had proceeded the over Night from Capt" Smiths. . . . After Breakfasting, and spending some time with the labourers at their different Works, of blowing, removing Stone, and getting Coal wood &c— we left the Seneca Falls about 2 oclock A. [? P.] M., & crossing the Kiver about half a mile below them and a little above Capt" Trammels we got into the great Koad from Leesburgh to Alexandria and about half after Nine O'clock in the Evening I reached home after an absence from it of 10 days." — Washington's Diaiy. SATUKDAY, AUGUST 13. At Mount Vernon : " The great object for the accom- plishment of which I wish to see the inland navigation of the rivers Potomack and James improved and extended is to connect the western territory with the Atlantic states. All others with me are secondary ; though I am clearly of opinion that it will greatly increase our commerce and be an immense saving in the article of transportation and draft cattle to the planters and farmers who are in a situation to have the produce of their labor water-borne. ... I have already subscribed five shares to the Potomack navigation ; and enclosed I give you a power to put my name down for five shares to that of James river." — Washington to Edmund Randolph. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 31. At Mount Vernon : " August 31.— This day I told Doct' Craik that I would contribute One hundred Dollars p' Annum, as long as it was necessary, towards the Education of His Son Geo Washington either in this Country or in Scotland." — Washington's Diary. 1785] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 37 Dr. James Craik, a graduate of the University of Edinburgh, was born in Scotland, and settled in Virginia in the year 1753. He joined the expe- dition to the Ohio in 1754, and was with Colonel Washington at the battle of the Great Meadows and the surrender of "Fort Necessity," in July of that year. Dr. Craik was in the Braddock campaign of 1755, and remained attached to the Virginia troops until about 1763. He also served as a surgeon in the Kevolutionary war. The friendship formed between "Wash- ington and the doctor in 1754 lasted through their lives, and he was a fre- quent and most welcome guest at Mount Vernon. He attended the General in his last illness, and was remembered in his will as his "compatriot in arms and old and intimate friend." Dr. Craik died February 6, 1814, at the age of eighty-two. THURSDAY, SEPTEMBEE 1. At Mount Vernon: "The hounds which you were so obliging as to send, arrived safe, and are of promising ap- pearance." — Washington to the Marquis de Lafayette. ^^ September 19. — Rid to the Plantations at the Ferry, Dogue run, and Muddy hole — took my French Hounds with me for the purpose of Airing them & giving them a knowledge of the grounds about the place. Novem- ber 29. — Went out after Breakfast with my hounds from France. December 1. — Took the Hounds out before Sun Rise. . . . 3 or 4 of the French Hd^ discovered no greater disposition for Hunting to day than they did on tues- day last. December 5. — It being a good scenting Morning I went out with the Hounds. . . . My French Hounds performed better to day." — Washing- ton's Diary. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3. At Mount Vernon : " September 3. — In the Evening James Madison Esq. came in. September 5. — M' Madison left this after Breakfast." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6. At Mount Vernon : " September 6. — A M' Taylor Clerk to the Secretary for Foreign Affairs came here whilst we were at Dinner, sent by M'' Jay, by order of Congress, to take Copies of the Report of the Commissioners who had been sent in by me to New York, to take an Acct. of the Slaves which had been sent from that place (previous to the evacu- ation) by the British." — Washington's Diary. 38 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1785 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9. At Alexandria : " September 9. — Rid up to Alexandria with M" Washington, who wanted to get some Cloathing for little Washington Custis ; and for the purpose of seeing Col° Fitzgerald & Col° Gilpin on the business of the Poto- mack Company — Returned home to Dinner." — Washing- torCs Diary. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10. At Mount Vernon : " September 10. — Rid with Fanny Bassett, M' Taylor and M' Shaw to meet a Party from Alexandria at Johnsons Spring (on my Land where Clifton formerly lived) where we dined on a cold dinner brought from Town by water and spent the Afternoon agreeably — Returning home by Sun down or a little after it." — Wash- ington's Diary. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20. Leaves Mount Vernon : " September 20. — About Noon, agreeably to an appointment I set off for the Seneca Falls — dined at Col° Gilpins and proceeded afterwards with him to M' Bryan Fairfaxs* where we lodged." — Washington's Diary. " September 21. — The Rain continuing without intermission until 10 or 11 oclock, and no appearances of feir weather until Noon, we did not leave M'' Fairfaxs 'till a little after it and then meeting much diflBculty in procuring a vessel, did not get to the Works at the Seneca falls until the labourers had quit them.— we then went to our old quarters at M^ Goldsboroughs were lodged — M"' Fairftix accompanied us. Septejnber 22. — About 10 oclock we left M' Goldsboroughs & in a boat passed down the Seneca falls to the place where the workmen were blowing Rocks. . . . After viewing the works we crossed to the Virginia side and proceeded to the Great Falls where by ap- pointment we were to have met Col" Fitzgerald — and Vessels to take us by Water to the little Falls in order to review the River between the two. — The * The Rev. Bryan Fairfax resided at " Towlston," about three miles from the Great Falls of the Potomac. In the latter years of his life he lived at " Mount Eagle," between Alexandria and Mount Vernon, where he died in 1802. 1785] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 39 latter we found, but not the first, & parting with M' Fairfax here, and sending our Horses by Land to M' Hipkins's at the Falls Warehouse we embarked about 3 oclock ; Col" Gilpin myself & one hand in one Canoe, and two other people in another Canoe, and proceeded down the Kiver to the place where it is proposed to let the Water again into a Canal to avoid the little Falls. . . . Lodged this Night at M' Hipkins's at the Falls warehouse where we arrived at Dark. September 23. — After taking an Early breakfast at M'' Hipkins's I set out and reached home about 11 oclock." — Washing- ton's Diary. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26. At Alexandria : " September 26. — Went up to Alexandria to meet Colonels Gilpin & Fitzgerald on business of the Potomack Comp^. Dined at the New Tavern, kept by M' Lyle." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2. At Mount Vernon : " October 2.— "Went with Fanny Bas- sett, Burwell Bassett, Docf Stuart, G. A. Washington, M'^ Shaw & Nelly Custis to Pohick Church; to hear a M' Thompson preach, who returned home with us to Dinner, where I found the Rev. M'^ Jones,* formerly a Chaplin in one of the Pennsylvania Regiments. — After we were in Bed (about Eleven oclock in the Evening) M' Houdon, sent from Paris by Docf Franklin and M' Jefferson to take My Bust, in behalf of the State of Virginia, with three young men assistants, introduced by a M' Perin a French Gentle- man of Alexandria arrived here by Water from the latter place. October 7. — Sat this day, as I had done yesterday for M' Houdon to form my Bust." — Washington's Diary. The General Assembly of Virginia having passed a resolution (June 22, 1784) that "The Executive be requested to take measures for procuring a statue of General Washington, to be of the finest marble and best workman- ship," Governor Harrison directed Thomas Jeflferson, then in Paris, to engage the services of a suitable person for the purpose. Mr. Jefierson thereupon contracted with the celebrated statuary, Jean Antoine Houdon, * David Jones, of Chester County, Pennsylvania, chaplain of General Anthony Wayne in the Revolutionary war and the Indian war of 1794-95. 40 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1785 to undertake the work. Mr. Houdon was unwilling to do so without seeing Washington, and accordingly arrangements were made for his visiting the United States. He remained at Mount Vernon until October 19, during which time he made a cast of the face, from which a bust was modelled, and took minute measurements of the figure of Washington. The statue was completed in 1788, but was not put in position in the Capitol at Kichmond until May 14, 1796. The figure has been pronounced by Lafayette " a fac- simile of Washington's person," while the bust is held as the acknowledged likeness of the great American. MONDAY, OCTOBER 10. At Mount Vernon : " October 10. — A M' Jn° Lone, on his way to Bishop Seabury for ordination, called & dined here — could not give him more than a general certificate founded on information, respecting his character— having no ac- quaintance with him, nor any desire to open a Correspond- ence with the new ordained Bishop." — Washington's Diary. Dr. Samuel Seabury was elected Bishop of Connecticut, by the Church of England clergy of that State, at Woodbury, March 25, 1783, and finally consecrated November 14, 1784, at Aberdeen, Scotland, by Bishops Kilgour, Petrie, and Skinner, representing the episcopate of the Scottish Church. He was the first Bishop of the American Church. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 12. At Mount Vernon : " October 12. — M' Livingston son of Peter Vanbrugh Livingston of New York came to Dinner & stayed all Night — and in the Evening M"" Madison ar- rived." — Washington's Diary. " October 13. — M' Livingston, notwithstanding the Rain, returned to Alexandria after dinner. October 14. — M' Madison went away after Break- fast. ' ' — Washington^ s Diary. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15. At Mount Vernon : " October 15. — The Reverend M' [Spence] Grayson, and Doct" [David] Griflith ; Lund Wash- ington, his wife, & Miss Stuart came to Dinner — all of whom remained the Evening except L. W. — After the Candles were lighted George Aug* Washington and Frances Bassett were married by M' Grayson." — Washington's Diary. 1785] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 41 MONDAY, OCTOBEK 17. Leaves Mount Vernon : " October 17. — Set out to meet the Directors of the Potomack Navigation at George Town, — where having all assembled, we proceeded towards the Great Falls, and dispersing for the convenience of obtaining Quarters, GoV Johnson & I went to M"" Brjan Fairfax." — Washington's Diary. " October 18. — After an early breakfast at M' Fairfax's Gov' Johnson & I set out for the Falls (accompanied hy M'' Fairfax) where we met the other Directors — and Col" Gilpin in the operation of levelling the ground for the proposed cut or Canal from the place where it is proposed to take the Water out to the other where it will be let into the Kiver again. . . . After dark I returned to M' Fairfax's. October 19. — Immediately after breakfast I set out for my return home — at which 1 arrived a little after Noon. — And found my Brother Jn" [Augustine] his Wife , Daughter Milly, & Sons Bushrod & Corbin, & the Wife of ihe first.— M' Will"" Washington & his Wife & 4 Children. " — Washington's Diary. FKIDAY, OCTOBER 21. At Alexandria : " October 21. — My Brother [and] M^ Will"" Washington and his Wife went up with me to this days Races at Alexandria — We dined at Col" [Dennis] Ramsays & returned in the Evening. October 22. — Went up again to day, with my Brother and the rest of the Gen- tlemen to the Race & dined at M' [William] Herberts." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29. At Mount Vernon : Declines, in a letter to Patrick Henry, Governor of Virginia, to accept fifty shares in the Potomac Company and one hundred shares in the James River Com- pany, voted to him January 5 by the General Assembly of the State ; " it being their wish in particular, that those great works of improvement, which, both as springing from the liberty which he has been so instrumental in es- tablishing, and as encouraged by his patronage, will be durable monuments of his glory, may be made monuments also of the gratitude of bis country." 42 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1785 In this letter, after referring to his fixed determination of refusing every pecuniary recompense for his services to his countr\', Washington wrote, '• But if it should please the General Assembly to permit me to turn the destination of the fund vested in me, from my private emolument, to objects of a public nature, it will be my study in selecting these to prove the sin- cerity of my gratitude for the honor conferred on me, by preferring such as may appear most subservient to the enlightened and patriotic views of the legislature." This proposition the Assembly acceded to, such disposition to be made either during his lifetime or by testamentary writing. By his last will and testament Washington bequeathed the one hundred shares in the James Kiver Company to the " Liberty Hall Academy in the County of Rockbridge, in the Commonwealth of Virga, " now the Washing- ton and Lee Universit}- of Lexington ; and the fifty shares of the Potomac Company " towards the endowment of a University to be established within the limits of the District of Columbia, under the auspices of the General Government. ' ' MONDAY, OCTOBER 31. At Mount Vernon : " October 31. — A Captain [Richard] Fullerton came here to Dinner on business of the State Society of the Cincinnati of Pensylvania; for whom I signed 250 Diplomas as President. — went away after." — Wash ingion's Diary. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4. At Mount Yernon : " November 4. — In the Evening a M' Jn° Fitch came in, to propose a draft & Model of a Machine for promoting Navigation, by means of a Steam.'' — Wash- ington's Diary. John Fitch, who in April, 1785, first conceived the idea of steam as a motive-power for vessels, and had a few months later (September) submitted a model for his steamboat before the American Philosophical Society, visited Virginia at this time, in order to petition the Legislature for assistance to complete his invention. Washington does not seem to have taken any interest in the object of his visit, and even when at Philadelphia in 1787, in attendance on the Consti- tutional Convention, was not present at the successful attempt made by Fitch (August 22) to propel a boat of some size on the Delaware, although a number of the members of the Convention seem to have witnessed it. 1785] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 43 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5. At Mount Vernon : " Noverahe'r 5. — M' Robert "Washing- ton of Chotanck — M' Lund Washington k M' Lawrence Washington dined here as did Col" Gilpin k M'' ]S'oah Webster — the 4 first went away afterwards — the last stayed all ZSTight/"'" — Washington's JJiory. Noah Wetster, LL.D., the author of the "American Dictionary of the English Language," first puhlished in 1828, had previously visited Mount Vernon (May 20j. His journey to the Southern States was for the purpose of petitioning their Legislatures to enact a copyright law. It is stated that when at Mount Vernon, Dr. "Wehsler presented Washington with a copy of his pamphlet entitled " Sketches of American Policy," published in 1784, in which he argued that a new system of government was nec^sary for the country, in which the people and Congress should act without the constant intervention of the States. This is believed to have been the first movement toward a national constitution. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8. At Mount Vernon : " Novemher 8. — A Capt° Lewis Little- page came here to Dinner. . . . This Capt° Littlepage has been Aid de Camp to the Duke de Crillen — was at the Sieges of Fort St. Phillip (on the Island of Minorca) and Gibralter; and is an extraordinary character." — Wo.shing- ton's Diary. Lewis Littlepage, son of Colonel James Littlepage, was bom in Hanover County, Virginia, December 19, 1762. He was graduated at William and Mary College in 1778, and being a relative of John Jay, then minister to Madrid, he joined him in the winter of 1779-80. He volunteered in the expedition of the Due de Crillon against Minorca in 1782, and at the attack on Gibraltar was blown up from one of the floating batteries, but saved. He subsequently made the tour of Europe, established himself at Warsaw, and went to St. Petersburg as ambassador from Poland. He died at Fred- ericksburg, Virginia, July 19, 1802. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10. At Alexandria : " Novemher 10. — Went up to Alexandria to meet the Directors of the Potomack Company. — Dined at M'' [Philip Richard] Fendalls (who was from home) and 44 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1785 returned in the Evening with M" Washington." — Washing- tori's Diary. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16. At Mount Vernon : " November 16. — Richard Henry Lee, lately President of Congress ; * his son Ludwell, Col" Fitz- gerald, and a M' Hunter (Merch*) of London came to Dinner & stayed all Night." — Washington's Diary. " November 16. — We arrived at Mount Vernon by one o'clock — so-called by the General's eldest brother, who lived there before him, after the Ad- miral of that name. When Colonel Fitzgerald introduced me to the Gen- eral I was struck with his noble and venerable appearance. It immediately brought to my mind the great part he had acted in the late war. The Gen- eral is about six feet high, perfectly straight and well made ; rather inclined to be lusty. His eyes are full and blue and seem to express an air of gravity. His nose inclines to the aquiline ; his mouth is small ; his teeth are yet good and his cheeks indicate perfect health. His forehead is a noble one and he wears his hair turned back, without curls and quite in the officer's style, and tyed in a long queue behind. Altogether he makes a most noble, respectable appearance, and I really think him the first man in the world. . . . When I was first introduced to him he was neatly dressed in a plain blue coat, white cassimir waistcoat, and black breeches and Boots, as he came from his farm. After having sat with us some time he retired and sent in his lady, a most agreeable woman about 50, and Major Washington his nephew, mar- ried about three weeks ago to a Miss Bassett : She is Mrs. Washington's niece and a most charming young woman. She is about 19. After chatting with them for half an hour, the General came in again, with his hair neatly powdered, a clean shirt on, a new plain drab coat, white waistcoat and white silk stockings. At three, dinner was on the table, and we were shewn by the General into another room, where everything was set off with a peculiar taste, and at the same time very neat and plain. The General sent the bottle about pretty freely after dinner, and gave success to the navigation of the Potomac for his toasts, which he has very much at heart, and when finished will I suppose be the first river in the world. . . . " After tea General Washington retired to his study and left us with the President, his lady and the rest of the Compan3\ If he had not been anxious to hear the news of Congress from Mr. Lee, most probably he would not have returned to supper, but gone to bed at his usual hour, nine o'clock, * Richard Henry Lee was President of Congress from November 30, 1784, to November 4, 1785. 1785] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 45 for he seldom makes any ceremony. We had a very elegant supper about that time. The General with a few glasses of champagne got quite merry, and being with his intimate friends laughed and talked a good deal. Before strangers he is generally very reserved, and seldom says a word." — Diary of John Hunter, Pemisylvania Magazine, vol. xvii. p. 76. THUKSDAY, NOVEMBEK 17. At Mount Yernon : " November 17. — Col" Lee & all the Company [including Mr. Hunter] went away after Break- fast." — Washington's Diary. " November 17. — I rose early and took a walk about the General's grounds — which are really beautifully laid out. He has about 4000 acres well culti- vated and superintends the whole himself. Indeed his greatest pride now 'n, to be thought the first farmer in America. He is quite a Cincinnatus, and often works with his men himself — strips off his coat and labors like a common man. The General has a great turn for mechanics. It's astonishing with what niceness he directs everything in the building way, condescending even to measure the things himself, that all may be perfectly uniform. The style of his house is very elegant, something like the Prince de Conde's at Chan- tille, near Paris, only not quite so large ; but it's a pity he did not build a new one at once, as it has cost him nearly as much repairing his old one. His improvements I'm told are very great within the last year. . . . It's aston- ishing what a number of small houses the General has upon his Estate for his different Workmen and Negroes to live in. He has everything within himself — Carpenters, Bricklayers, Brewers, Blacksmiths, Bakers, etc , etc., and even has a well assorted Store for the use of his family and servants. . . . The General has some hundreds of Negroes on his plantations. He chiefly grows Indian corn, wheat and tobacco. . . . The situation of Mount Vernon is by nature one of the sweetest in the world, and what makes it still more pleasing is the amazing number of sloops that are constantly sailing up and down the River. ' ' — Diary of John Hunter. MONDAY, NOVEMBER 21. At Alexandria : " November 21. — I went up to Alexandria with G. Washington to meet the Directors of the Potomack Com* and to a Turtle feast (the Turtle given by myself to the Gentlemen of Alex*). Returned in the Evening and found the Count Doradour, recommended by & related to the Marq' de la Fayette here." — Washington's Diary. 46 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1785 FKIDAY, NOVEMBEK 25. At Gunston Hall : " November 25. — Set out after break- fast, accompanied by M' G. Washington, to make M' Mason at Colchester a visit, but hearing on the Road that he had removed from thence I turned into Gunston Hall where we dined and returned in the Evening & found Col" Henry Lee & his Lady here." — Washington's Diary. Gunston Hall, on the Potomac, near the mouth of the Occoquan Kiver, below Mount Vernon, was the residence of George Mason, author of " The Virginia Bill of Rights." The house, erected by Mr. Mason about the year 1758, is still standing, although no longer in possession of the Mason family. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2. At Mount Vernon: ^''December 2. — Col° & M"" [Daniel] Macarty came here to Dinner — as did Colonels Fitzgerald and Gilpin — and M' Cha^ Lee & Docf Baker." — Washing- ton's Diary. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4. At Mount Vernon : " December 4. — Last Mght Jn" Alton, an Overseer of mine in the Neck — an old & faithful Servant who had lived with me 30 odd years died — and this evening the wife of Tho° Bishop, another old Servant who had lived with me an equal number of years also died." — Washington's Diary. John Alton, a Welshman by birth, attended Washington in the Braddock campaign of 1755. Thomas Bishop (the death of whose wife is noted in the Diary) came to America in 1755, as a military servant to General Braddock, and at the battle of the Monongahela (July 9) was detailed by that com- mander to wait upon Washington, who had barely recovered from a severe attack of illness. After the death of Braddock he took service with the young Virginia colonel, and was in attendance upon him the day of his first interview with the widow Custis. Bishop was deemed too old for active service in the Revolution, and remained at Mount Vernon. He died in January, 1795, aged eighty years. 1785] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 47 THUKSDAY, DECEMBEE 8. At Mount Vernon : " December 8. — Capt° Fairley [James Fairlie] of New York came here in the Afternoon." — Washington's Diary. ^^ December 12. — Maj"" Farlie went away before breakfast, with 251 Di- plomas which I had signed for the Members of the Cincinnati of the State of New York, at the request of General M^Dougall Presedent of that Society. — "After an early breakfast George "Washington M' Shaw & Myself went into the Woods back of Muddy hole Plantation a hunting and were joined by M"^ Lund Washington and M"" William Peake. — About half after ten Oclock (being first plagued with the Dogs running Hogs) we found a fox near Col° Masons Plantation on little Hunting Creek (West fork) having followed on his Drag more than half a Mile ; and run him with Eight Dogs (the other 4 getting, as was supposed after a Second Fox) close and well for an hour — When the Dogs came to a fault and to cold Hunting until 20 Minutes after 12 When being joined by the missing Dogs they put him up a fresh and in about 50 Minutes killed up in an open field of Col" Mason's — every Eider & every Dog being present at the Death." — Washington's Diary. SAT UEDAY, DECEMBEE 17. At Alexandria : '- December 17. — Went to Alexandria to meet the Trustees of the Academy in that place — and offered to vest in the hands of the said Trustees, when they are permanently established by Charter, the Sum of One thousand pounds, the Interest of which only, to be applied towards the establishment of a charity School for the edu- cation of Orphan and other poor Children — which offer was accepted — returned again in the Evening." — Washingto7i's Diary. MONDAY, DECEMBEE 19. At Mount Yernon : " My homage is due to his Catholic Majesty for the honor of his present. The value of it is intrinsically great; but it is rendered inestimable by the manner, and the hand it is derived from. Let me entreat you, therefore. Sir, to lay before the King my thanks for the jackasses, with which he has been graciously pleased to compliment me." — Washington to Count de Florida Blanca, Spanish Minister of State. 48 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1785 The King of Spain, hearing that General Washington was endeavoring to procure in Europe asses of the best breed, for the purpose of rearing mules on his estates, made him a present of three, a jack and two jennies, and sent over with them a person who was acquainted with the habits of these animals and the mode of treating them. He arrived at Mount Vernon early in De- cember, and after his instructions were taken down in writing by Washing- ton, left on the 20th. The jack, called the Royal Grift, was about fifteen hands high. THUKSDAY, DECEMBER 22. At Mount Vernon : " December 22. — Went a Fox hunting with the Gentlemen who came here yesterday [Daniel Dulany, Jr., Benjamin Dulany, Samuel Hanson, Thomas Hanson, Philip Alexander, and a Mr, Mounsher], together with Ferdinando Washington* and M'' Shaw, after a very early breakfast — found a Fox just back of Muddy hole Plantation and after a Chase of an hour and a quarter with ray Dogs, & eight couple of Doctor Smiths (brought by M"" Phil Alexander) we put him into a hollow tree, in which we fastned him, and in the Pincushion put up another Fox which, in an hour & 13 Minutes was killed — We then after allowing the Fox in the hole half an hour put the Dogs upon his Trail & in half a Mile he took to another hollow tree and was again put out of it but he did not go 600 yards before he had recourse to the same shift — finding therefore that he was a conquered Fox we took the Dogs olf, and came home to Dinner." — Washington's Diary. " Breakfast was served, on hunting mornings, at candle-light, the general always breaking his fast with an Indian-corn cake and a bowl of milk ; and, ere the cock had 'done salutation to the morn,' the whole cavalcade would often have left the house, and the fox be frequently unkennelled before sun- rise. Those who have seen Washington on horseback will admit that he was one of the most accomplished of cavaliers in the true sense and perfection of the character. He rode, as he did everything else, with ease, elegance, and with power. The vicious propensities of horses were of no moment to this skilful and daring rider ! He always said that he required but one good quality in a horse, to go along, and ridiculed the idea of its being even pos- * A nephew of General Washington, son of his brother Samuel. 1785] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 49 sible that he should be unhorsed, provided the animal kept on his legs. Indeed the perfect and sinewy frame of ihe admirable man gave him such a surpassing grip with his knees, that a horse might as soon disencumber itself of the saddle as of such a rider. "The general usually rode in the chase a horse called Blueskin, of a dark iron-gray color, approaching to blue. This was a fine but fiery animal, and of great endurance in a long run. . . . There were roads cut through the woods in various directions, by which aged and timid hunters and ladies could enjoy the exhilarating cry, without risk of life or limb ; but Washing- ton rode gaily up to his dogs, through all the difficulties and dangers of the ground on which he hunted, nor spared his generous steed, as the distended nostrils of Blueskin often would show. He was always in at the death, and yielded to no man the honor of the brush." — George Washington Parke CusTis, Recollections of Washington. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25. At Mount Vernon : " December 25. — Count Castiglioni came here to dinner. December 29. — Count Castiglioni went away after breakfast, on his tour to the Southward." — Washington's Diary. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29. At Mount Vernon : " December 29. — I went [after break- fast] to my Dogue run Plantation to measure, with a view to New Model, the Fields at that place — did not return until dark nor finish my Surveys. December 30, — "Went to Dogue Run again to compleat my Surveys of the Fields which I did about 2 o'clock." — Washington's Diary. 1786. MONDAY, JANUAKY 2. At Mount Vernon : " January 2. — Immediately after an early breakfast I went out with the Hounds but returned as soon as it began to Rain, without touching upon the drag of a fox." — Washington's Diary. " January 4. — After breakfast I rid by the places where my Muddy hole & Ferry people were clearing — thence to the Mill and Dogue Kun Planta- tions — and having the Hounds with me in passing from the latter towards Muddy hole Plantation I found a Fox which after dragging him some dis- tance and running him hard for near an hour was killed by the cross road in front of the House. January 10. — Eid to my Plantation in the Neck and took the hounds with me — about 11 Oclock found a fox in the Pocoson* at Sheridan's point and after running it very indifferently and treeing it once caught it about one Oclock. January 14. — Went out with the Hounds & run a fox from 11 oclock untill near 3 oclock when I came home and left the Dogs at fault after which they recovered the Fox & its supposed killed it." — Washington's Diary. SATUKDAY, JANUAKY 21. At Mount Vernon : " January 21. — Rid to my Planta- tions at Muddy hole and Dogue run — from thence to the Mill." — Washington's Diary. The Mount Vernon estate proper comprised nearly forty-five hundred acres of land. For the purpose of systematic arrangement it was divided into the Mansion-House Farm and four plantations, known as the Union Farm, the Dogue Eun Farm, the Muddy Hole Farm, and the Eiver Farm, the latter of which, separated from the others b}' Little Hunting Creek, in- cluded several plantations in what was known as the Neck. The four plantations contained thirty-two hundred and sixty acres of arable land, and the Mansion-House Farm about four hundred and fifty acres with * A word used in Virginia and other Southern States, signifying a 7-e- claimed marsh. Both Webster and Worcester cite Washington as authority. 50 1786] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 51 large bounds of woodland. Each one of the plantations had its own over- seer and its independent outfit and plant. A map of the Washington farms at Mount Vernon, reduced from a drawing made by himself, will be found in volume xii. p. 316 of Sparks's " Writings of George Washing- ton." Washington, when at home, visited these farms almost every day, mount- ing his horse after breakfast and returning shortly before three o'clock, when he dressed for dinner. The tour of the farms might average ten to fifteen miles per day. The afternoon was usually devoted to the library and the evening to his family and friends ; at nine o'clock he retired for the night, as he was an early riser. SATUKDAY, JANUAKY 28. At Mount Vernon : " January 28. — Went out after break- fast with my hounds — found a Fox on the Branch within M' Thomson Masons Field and run him some times hard and sometimes at cold hunting from 11 oclock till near two when I came home and left the huntsman with them who followed in the same manner two hours or more longer, and then took the Dogs off without killing." — Washington's Diary. WEDNESDAY, FEBKUAKY 1. At Potomac Falls : " February 1. — ^Not being able to leave here yesterday (as I intended) for the appointed meet- ing of the Directors of the Potomack Navigation at the Great Falls this day, I set out this Morning at the first dawning of day for this purpose, and after as disagreeable a ride as I ever had for the distance, arrived, at the Falls at half after 11 oclock where I found Col° Gilpin (who had been there since Sunday Night) levelling &c — and Col° Fitzgerald who got there just before me. " Spent the remainder of this day in viewing the different grounds along which it was supposed the Canal might be carried and after dining at the Huts went in the evening accompanied by Col° Fitzgerald & M' Potts [clerk to the board of managers] to a M'' Wheelers in the Neighbour- hood (ab* IJ Miles off) to lodge."— Washington's Diary. 52 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1786 ^^ February 2. — Spent this day in examining the ground more attentively, and levelling the different ways we had discovered yesterday. . . . Dined again at the Hutts. . . . After 7 Oclock at Night Col" Fitzgerald M"' Potts & myself left the Hutts, & came to M' William Scotts about 6 Miles on this side of the Falls where we lodged. February 3. — After an early breakfast we left M"' Scotts ; and about noon I reached home." — Washing- ton's Diary. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28. Leaves Mount Vernon : " February 28. — Set out, by ap- pointment, to attend a meeting of the Board of Directors of the Potomack Company at the Great Falls — Dined and lodged at Abingdon, to which place M" Washington and all the Children accompanied me." — Washington'' s Diary. ^'^ March 1. — After a very early breakfast at Abingdon I set off for the meeting at the Great Falls & passing near the little falls arrived at the fonner about 10 Oclock ; where in a little time, assembled Gov'' Johnston Col° Fitzgerald, and Col" Gilpin. Little or no business done to day. . . . I went to M'' Fairfax's (about 3 Miles off) where I lodged. March 2. — Accompanied by M'' Fairfax I repaired again to the Falls where we arrived about 8 oclock . . . the day was so stormy, that we could neither level, nor Survey the different tracks talked of for the Canal. . . . Col" Fitzgerald & M' Potts accompanied M"" Fairfax & myself to Towlston. March 3. — The Snow which fell yesterday & last Night covered the ground at least a foot deep ; and continuing snowing a little all day, & blowing hard from the N» "West, we were obliged tho' we assembled at y*^ huts again to relinquish all hopes of levelling & Surveying the ground this trip. ... I again returned (first dining at the Hutts) with Col" Fitzgerald to Towlston, in a very severe evening. March 4. — After breakfast Col° Fitzgerald and myself set off on our return home & parted at 4 Mile run. — about half after four I got to Mount Vernon, where M" Washington, Nelly and little Washington had just arrived.'' — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, MARCH 5. At Mount Vernon : " March 5. — M' Rich*^ Bland Lee came here to dinner and stayed all Night. 3Iarch 6. — M' Lee went away about 10 Oclock and M' Thornton Wash- ington [son of Samuel Washington] came in after we had dined and stayed all night." — Washington's Diary. 1786] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 53 SUNDAY, MARCH 12. At Mount Vernon : " March 12. — About dusk M' Wil- liam Harrison (a delegate to Congress from the State of Maryland) and his Son came in on their way to New York. March 13. — M' Harrison and son went away after break- fast." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, MARCH 19. At Mount Vernon : " March 19. — A Gentleman calling himself the Count de Cheiza D'arteignan officer of the French Guards came here to dinner ; but bringing no let- ters of introduction, nor any authentic testimonials of his being either ; I was at a loss how to receive or treat him — he stayed dinner and the evening." — Washington'' s Diary. ^^ March 21. — The Count de Cheiza D'artingnon (so calling himself) was sent, with my horses, to day, at his own request, to Alexand*." — Washing- ion's Diary. SATURDAY, MARCH 25. At Mount Vernon : "I feel very sensibly the honor con- ferred on me by the ' South Carolina Society for promoting and improving Agriculture and other Rural Concerns,' by unanimously electing me the first honorary member of that body." — Washington to William Drayton. In communicating to General Washington, under date of Charleston, November 23, 1785, the above intelligence, Mr. Drayton added, "This mark of their respect, the Society thought, was with peculiar propriety due to the man, who, by his gallantry and conduct as a soldier, contributed so eminently to stamp a value on the labors of every American farmer ; and who, by his skill and industry in the cultivation of his fields, has likewise distinguished himself as a farmer." FRIDAY, APRIL 7. At Mount Vernon : " April 7. — M' George Washington went to Alexandria and engaged 100,000 Herrings to Smith & Douglas (if caught) at 5/ p' thousand." — Washing- ton's Diary. 54 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1786 It will be seen from the above that the fisheries at Mount Vernon formed no unimportant part of the domestic economy of the proprietor. They were quite valuable and extensive, and Washington, in describing his estate to Arthur Young, in 1793, wrote, " The river which encompasses the land, is well supplied with various kinds of fish at all seasons of the year ; and, in the spring, with the greatest profusion of shad, herring, bass, carp, perch, sturgeon, &c. Several valuable fisheries appertain to the estate; the whole shore, in short, is one entire fishery." TUESDAY, APRIL 11. At Mount Vernon: '•^ April 11. — Rid to the Fishing Landing, where 30 odd Shad had just been caught at a haul, — not more than 2 or 3 had been taken at one time before this Spring." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, APRIL 15. At Alexandria: ^'- April 15. — Rid to Alexandria to a Meeting of the Directors of the Potomack Company, who had advertised their intention of Contracting on this day with whomsoever should bid lowest for the Supplying the Company's Servants with Rations for one year. . . . Dined at M' Lyle's tavern and returned in the Evening." — Wash- ington's Diary. " April 17. — Went up to Alexandria to an election of Delegates to repre- sent this County ; when the suffrages of the people fell upon Col" Mason and Docf^ Stuart. . . . Returned home in the evening." — Washington's Diary. THURSDAY, APRIL 20. At Mount Vernon : " April 20. — The Shad began to Run to day, having caught 100, 200 & 300 at a draught."— Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, APRIL 23. Leaves Mount Vernon : " April 23. — Set off after break- fast, on a journey to Richmond — to acknowledge in the General Court some Deeds for Land sold by me as Attorney for Col° George Mercer which it seems, could not be exe- cuted without. Dined at Dumfries and lodged at Stafford Court House." — Washington's Diary. 1786] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 55 ^'' April 24. — A good deal of Kain having fallen in the Night and it con- tinuing to do so till after 6 ocl'' I was detained till near seven — when I set out, dined at my Mothers in Fredericksburg & proceeded afterwards to, and lodged at General Spotswoods. April 25. — Set out from General Spots- woods about Sun Kising and breakfasted at the Bowling green. . . . Dined at Kawlins and lodged at Hanover Court House. April 26. — Left Hanover Court H° about Sun Kise — breakfasted at Nervals tavern — and reached Kichmond about Noon, — put up at Formicalo's Tavern, where by invita- tion, I dined with the Judges of the General Court." — Washington's Diary. THUKSDAY, APRIL 27. At Richmond, Virginia : " April 27. — Acknowledged in the General Court a Deed to James Mercer Esq' for the Lotts he and I bought at the Sale of his deceased Brother Col" George Mercer — and received a reconveyance from him of my part thereof. " Road with the Lieu* Gov' [Beverley] Randolph, the Attorney General and M' George Webb to view the cut which had commenced between Westham and Richmond for the improvement of the Navigation of James River. . . . Dined and spent the evening at the Attorneys — lodged again at Formicalo's." — Washington's Diary. ^^ April 28. — Left Eichmond about 6 oclock — breakfasted at Norvals — Dined at Rawlins — and lodged at the Bowling. April 29. — Set out from Bowling green a little after Sun rising — breakfasted at General Spotswoods — Dined at my Sister's in Fredericksburgh — and spent the evening at M'' [William] Fitzhughs of Chatham. April 30. — Set off about Sun rising from M"" Fitzhughs — breakfasted at Dumfries — and reached home to a late Dinner." — Washi7igton's Diary. THURSDAY, MAY 4.* At Abingdon : " May 4. — After Dinner I set out for Abingdon in order (to morrow) to Survey my 4 Miles Run Tract ; on which I had cause to apprehend trespasses had been committed." — Washington's Diary. * " May 4. — Sent Maj' Washington to town [Alexandria] on Business where he and M'' Lund Washington engaged to M' Watson 100 Barr'' of my Flour to be delivered next week at 32/9 p"' Barr'." — Washington's Diary. 56 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1786 The tract on Four Mile Run, which empties into the Potomac Eiver three miles above Alexandria, contained about twelve hundred acres. "Washing- ton made several surveys of this land, the final one on April 29 and 30, 1799, and by his last will and testament devised it to George "Washington Parke Custis, his adopted son. FRIDAY, MAY 5. At Four Mile Run : " May 5. — Set out early from Abing- don, and beginning at the upper corner of my Land (on 4 Miles Run) a little below an old Mill; I ran the Tract agreeably to the courses & distances of a Plat made thereof by John Hough, in the year 1766 (ISTov'^) in presence of Col° Carlyle & M' James Mercer.— Not hav^ Hough's field Notes & no Corner trees being noted in His Plat, I did not attempt to look for lines ; but allowing one degree for the variation of Compass since the Survey, above mentioned, was made, I run the courses and distances only. . . . Re- turned at Night to Abingdon, being attended in the labours of the day by Docf Stuart." — Washington's Diary. " May 6. — After an early breakfast I set out on my Return home & taking Muddy hole [plantation] in my way, returned about 10 Oclock. " — Wash- ington's Diary. WEDNESDAY, MAY 10. At Mount Vernon : "A measure in which this State [Virginia] has taken the lead at its last session, will, it is to be hoped, give efiicient powers to that body [Congress] for all commercial purposes. This is a nomination of some of its first characters to meet other commissioners from the several States, in order to consider and decide upon such powers as shall be necessary for the sovereign authority of them to act under." — Washington to the Marquis de La- fayette. This convention met at Annapolis, Maryland, September 11, 1786, to take into consideration the trade and commerce of the United States, and to provide for a uniform system in their commercial intercourse and regula- tions. Five States only — New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Virginia — were represented, and when the commissioners came together 1786] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 57 they found themselves invested with such limited powers as not to enable them to act for the general purposes of the meeting. They did little else than draw up a report, to he presented to the several States, urging the necessity of a revision of the confederated system of government, and recom- mending a convention of delegates with larger powers to be held at Philadel- phia on the second Monday of May following. THUKSDAT, MAY 18. At Mount Vernon : " That it is necessary to revise and amend the articles of confederation, I entertain no doubt ; but what may be the consequences of such an attempt is doubtfuL Yet something must be done, or the fabric must fall, for it is certainly tottering." — Washington to John Jay. The letter from which the above extract is made was in answer to one from Mr. Jay, dated March 16, in which he said, " Experience has pointed out errors in our national government which call for correction, and which threaten to blast the fruit we expected from our tree of liberty. The con- vention proposed by Virginia [for commercial purposes] may do some good, and would perhaps do more if it comprehended more objects. An opinion begins to prevail that a general Convention for revising the articles of con- federation would be expedient. Whether the people are yet ripe for such a measure, or whether the system proposed to be attained by it is only to be expected from calamity and commotion, is difficult to ascertain. I think we are in a delicate situation, and a variety of considerations and circum- stances give me uneasiness." MONDAY, MAY 22. At Mount Vernon : " May 22. — Began to take up the pavement of the Piaza. May 23. — This day began to lay the Flags in my Piaza. May 27. — Finished laying 28 courses of the pavement in the Piaza." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, MAY 29. At Mount Vernon : " May 29. — About 9 Oclock M' Tobias Lear, who had been previously engaged on a Salary of 200 dollars, to live with me as a private Secretary & precepter for "Washington Custis a year came here from New Hamp- shire, at which place his friends reside." — Washington's Diary. 58 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1786 Tobias Lear, who remained with Washington, first as a secretary and afterward as superintendent of bis private affairs, until the close of his first term as President, was born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, September 19, 1762, and died in Washington, D. C, October 11, 1816. At the desire of Washington he resumed his duties as secretary in the summer of 1798, and was present at his death, of which he drew up a circumstantial account. (Sparks, vol. i. p. 555.) Mr. Lear, whose relations with Washington were of the most confidential nature, has left us the following testimonial to his private character, which, brief as it is, reveals more of the truth and consistency of his manhood than could be conveyed by the most labored eulogy : " General Washington is, I believe, almost the only man of an exalted character who does not lose some part of his respectability by an intimate acquaintance. I have never found a single thing that could lessen my respect for him. A complete knowledge of his honesty, uprightness, and candour in all his private transactions, has sometimes led me to think him more than a man." SUNDAY, JUNE 4. At Mount Vernon : " June 4. — Received from on board the Brig Ann, from Ireland, two Servant Men for whom I had agreed yesterday — viz. — Thomas Ryan a shoemaker, and Caven Bon — a Taylor Redemptioners for 3 years Ser- vice by Indenture if they could not pay, each, the sum of £12 Ster^ which sums I agreed to pay." — Washington's Diary, The demand for labor of a better character than that obtained from negro slaves gave rise, at an early period in the history of the colonies, to the cus- tom of importing white men for a specified time of service. These covenant servants were regularly indentured under a voluntary agreement, and upon their arrival in this country were disposed of on terms seldom exceeding seven years, except in the case of very young persons. In later years the price paid to the shipper was but little in excess of the passage-money and expenses attending the importation. At the end of the term agreed upon the " redemptioners," as they came to be called, merged into the mass of the white population without any special taint of servitude. Many of them were skilled mechanics, who in the end became valuable citizens. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14. At Potomac Falls : " June 14. — After an early breakfast in Company with Col" Serf, I set out for our Works at the great falls ; where we arrived about 11 Oclock and after 1786] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 59 viewing them set out on our Return & readied Col" Gilpins where we lodged." — Washingtori's Diary. " June 15. — Took Alexandria — My Mill dam Meadow at Dogue Run and the Plantation there — as also the Ferry Plantation in my way home." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, JUNE 17. At Mount Vernon : " June 17. — M' Hough, Butcher in Alexandria, came here this afternoon & purchased from me three fatted Beeves (2 in the Neck & 1 at Dogue run) for which he is to pay next week £42 — also the picking of 12 "Weathers from my flock at 34/ p"" head — if upon consulting my Farmer & they could be spared, he was to have 20." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, JUNE 19. At Mount Vernon : " June 19. — A Mons' Andri Michaux a Botanest sent by the Court of France to America (after having been only 6 Weeks returned from India) came in a little before dinner with letters of Introduction & recom- mendation from the Duke de Lauzen, & Marq* de la Fay- ette to me — he dined and returned afterwards to Alexand' on his way to N"ew York, from whence he had come ; and where he was about to establish a Botanical garden." — Washingto7i's Diary. In pursuance of his commission from the French government, Andre Michaux established nurseries for the cultivation of trees and shrubs, to be naturalized in France, at Bergen County, New Jersey, and near Charleston, South Carolina. From the former he made one shipment, but the Revolu- tion prevented remittances, and the work was discontinued. He, however, in prosecution of his studies, travelled extensively in America, and did not return to his native land until 1796. His son, Fran9ois Andre, also a distinguished botanist, was sent by the French government in 1802 to study the forests of America, which had been explored by his father. This resulted in the production of his work entitled " Histoire des Arbres Forestiers de I'Amerique," four vols., 1810-13. which laid the foundation of his reputation as a botanist. He was elected a member of the American Philosophical Society, April 21, 1809, and by 60 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1786 his will bequeathed to it the sum of ninety-two thousand francs, invested in French three-per-cent. rentes, the interest of which is used by the Society f( )r the advancement of botany. SUNDAY, JUNE 25. At Mount Vernon : " No person, who shall come with your passport, will be an unwelcome guest. . . . My manner of living is plain. I do not mean to be put out of it. A glass of wine and a bit of mutton are always ready ; and such as will be content to partake of them are always wel- come. Those who expect more will be disappointed." — Washington to George William Fairfax. SUNDAY, JULY 2. Leaves Mount Vernon : " July 2. — About Noon I set out for the intended meeting (to be held to morrow) at the Seneca falls — Dined at Col° Gilpins ; where meeting with Col° Fitzgerald we proceeded all three of us to M' Bryan Fairfax's and lodged." — Washington's Diary. '■\July 3. — After a very early breakfast (about Sun rise) we left M"" Fair- fax's and arriving at the head of the Seneca falls (where a Vessel was to have met us) was detained till near ten oclock before one arrived to put us over to our place of rendezvous at M' Goldsboroughs. July 4. — The Direc- tors determined to prosecute their first plan for openting the Navigation of the Kiver in the bed of it. . . . These matters being settled Col" Gilpin and myself resolved to send our horses to the Great falls and go by water to that place ourselves. . . . After dining with M"" Kumsey at the Great falls Col° Gilpin and myself set out in order to reach our respective homes, but a gust of wind & rain, with much lightning, compelled me to take shelter, about dark at his house, where I was detained all night. July 5. — I set out about sun rising, & taking my harvest fields at Muddy hole & the ferry in my way, got home to breakfast." — Washington'' s Diary. MONDAY, JULY 24. At Mount Vernon : " July 24. — After breakfast I accom- panied Col** [Theodoric] Bland to M' Lund Washingtons ; where he entered the stage on his return home. — Rid from hence to the Plantations at Dogue Run & Muddy hole. . . . 1786] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 61 On my return home, found Col' Humphreys here." — Wash- ington's Diary. Colonel Humphreys remained at Mount Vernon until August 23. He had just returned from France, and, according to Lossing, brought with him, at the request of Louis XV^I., an impression of the king's full- length portrait, engraved by Bervic after the painting by Callet. This en- graving, which was elegantly framed, was one of the well-known ornaments of the mansion at Mount Vernon ; but as it was not executed until 1790, the statement by Lossing is incorrect. It must have been presented to Washington after that date. MONDAY, JULY 31. At Mount Vernon : " General Greene lately died at Sa- vannah in Georgia. The public as well as his family and friends, has met with a severe loss. He was a great and good man indeed." — Washington to Count de Rochambeau. Nathanael Greene, of whom Alexander Hamilton said, that "his quali- fications for statesmanship were not less remarkable than his military ability, which was of the highest order," died on the 19th of July, 1786, at the age of forty-four. His death , caused by a sunstroke, occurred at ' ' Mul- berry Grove," on the Savannah River, an estate presented to him by the State of Georgia. He was indeed " a great and good man." TUESDAY, AUGUST 1. At Mount Vernon : " I do not conceive we can exist long as a nation without having lodged somewhere a power, which will pervade the whole Union in as energetic a man- ner as the authority of the State governments extends over the several States." — Washington to John Jag. SATUKDAY, AUGUST 5. At Alexandria : " August 5. — Went to Alexandria to a meeting of the Directors of the Potomac Comp^ in order to prepare the Acct' and a report for the Gen' Meeting of the C° on Monday next. — Neither of the Maryland Gent" attended — ^Dined at Wises Tav°." — Washington's Diary. ^^ August 7. — Went to Alexandria to the Gen' Meeting of the Potomack C° — Col" Humphreys accompanied me — A sufficient number of shares being 62 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION [1786 present to constitute the Meeting the Acct' of the Directors were exhiliited and a Gen' Eeport made — but for want of the Secretarys Books which were locked up, and he absent the Orders and other proceedings referred to in that Report could not be exhibited." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, AUGUST 19. At Alexandria: '■'■August 19. — After breakfast I accom- panied Col" Humphreys by water to Alexandria and dined with him at Cap* [Richard] Conways to whom he had been previously engaged." — Washington'' s Diary. TUESDAY, AUGUST 29. At Mount Yernon : " August 29. — Taken with an Ague about 7 oclock this morning which being succeeded by a smart fever confined me to the House till evening — Had a slight fit of both on Sunday last but was not confined by them." — Washington's Diary. ^^ August SI. — Siezed with an ague before 6 oclock this morning after having laboured under a fever all night — Sent for Docf Craik who arrived just as we were setting down to dinner ; who, when he thought my fever sufficiently abated gave me a cathartick and directed the Bark to be applied in the Morning. Septe^nber 2. — Kept close to the House to day, being my fit day in course least any exposure might bring it on, — happily missed it. September 14. — At home all day repeating dozes of Bark of which I took 4 with an interval of 2 hours between." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9. At Mount Vernon : " I never mean, unless some particu- lar circumstances should compel me to it, to possess another slave by purchase, it being among my first wishes to see some plan adopted, by which slavery in this country may be abolished by law." — Washington to John F. Mercer. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1. Leaves Mount Yernon : " October 1. — The day clear and warm. — Took an early Dinner and set out for Abingdon on my way to the Great Falls to meet the Directors of the Potomack C°." — Washington's Diary. 1786] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 63 " October 2. — Set out [from Abingdon] before Six oclock, & arrived at the Great Falls ab' half after nine. — found Col° Gilpin there & soon after Gov" Johnson & Lee, and Col" Fitzgerald & M' Potts arrived when the board proceeded to enquire into the charges exhibited by M'' James Rumsey the late against M'' Richardson Stuart the present Manager of the Com- panys business — the examination of the Witnesses employed the board until dark when the Members dispersed for Lodgings — I went to M"" Fairfaxs. October 3. — Returned to the Falls by appointment at 7 oclock to Breakfast : we proceeded immediately afterwards to a consideration of the evidence . . . the whole appeared (the charges) malignant, envious & trifling. — After this the board settled many ace'* and adjourned till 8 oclock next Morning. October 4. — The Board having agreed to a Petition to be oflFered to the As- semblies of Virg" and Maryland for prolonging the time allowed by Law for improving the Navigation of the River above the Great Falls, broke up about three oclock — When in company of Col°^ Fitzgerald & Gilpin & M"' Potts I set ofl' home. — With much difficulty on ace' of the Rising of the Water by the Rain of last Night we crossed Difficult run and through a constant Rain till I had reached Cameron* I got home a little before 8 o'clock where I found my Brother Jn" Aug^ Washington." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, OCTOBER 9. At Mount Vernon : " October 9. — Allowed all my People to go to the Races in Alexandria on one of three days as best comported with their respective businesses — leaving careful persons on the Plantations." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10. At Alexandria : " October 10. — In company with Major Washington and M"" Lear went up to Alexandria to see the Jockey Club purse run for (which was won by M' Snickers) dined by invitation with the Members of it and returned home in the evening." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15. At Pohick Church : " October 15. — Accompanied by Maj' Washington his wife — M' Lear & the two child"" Il^elly & * An estate situate two miles south of the old road from Alexandria to Mount Vernon, and about eight miles from the latter place. 64 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1786 Washington Custis — went to Pohick Church & returned to Dinner." — Washington'' s Diary. Pohick Church is situated on Pohick Creek, about five miles southwest of Mount Vernon. The first building (of frame) was erected on the south side of the creek in 1732. The present structure (of brick) was put up in 1772, on the north side, two miles farther up the stream, for which Wash- ington drew the plans, and also served on the building committee. He was chosen a vestryman in 1765, and was kept in that office for several years. His pew was No. 28, north side, next to the communion table ; it was marked with his initials. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22. At Mount Vernon : " October 22.— The Hon"" W^ Dray- ton and M"" Walter Izard came here to dinner and stayed all Night." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, OCTOBER 23. At Mount Vernon : " October 23. — I remained at home all day in the evening Col° Monroe & his Lady and M"" Maddison came in." — Washington's Diary. " October 23. — Mr. Drayton, Mr. Izard here all day. After dinner Gen- eral Washington was, in the course of conversation, led to speak of Arnold's treachery, when he gave an account of it. ' ' * — Diary of Tobias Lear. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 24. At Mount Vernon : " October 24. — M' Drayton and M"^ Izard set out after breakfast on their Rout to South Caro- lina. October 25. — M"" Maddison and Col" Monroe and his Lady set out after breakfast for Fredericksburg." — Wash- ington's Diary. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29. At Charles County, Maryland : " October 29. — I crossed the River with intention to view & survey my land [600 acres] in Charles County Maryland — Went to and lodged * For this interesting statement see " Washington in Domestic Life," by Richard Rush, Philadelphia, 1857. 1786] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 65 at Gov' [William] Smallwoods about 14 Miles from the Ferry." — Washington'' s Diarij. " October 30. — About One oclock, — accompanied by the Governor, I set out to take a view of my land which lay 12 Miles from his House. — After doing which and finding it rather better than I expected we returned to the Govern" having from the badness of the Weather & wetness of the ground given over the idea of surveying. October 31. — After breakfast I left Gov'' Smallwoods & got home to dinner." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 81. At Mount Vernon : " You talk, my good Sir, of employ- ing influence to appease the present tumults in Massachu- setts. I know not where that influence is to be found, or, if attainable, that it would be a proper remedy for the dis- orders. Influence is not government. Let us have a govern- ment by which our lives, liberties, and properties will be secured, or let us know the worst at once." — Washington to Hmry Lee. The popular movement in Western Massachusetts in opposition to the constituted authorities, referred to in the above letter, was of a most singular character. It began as early as 1782, and increased as popular discontent, incident on the unsettled condition of affairs at the close of the Revolution, became greater. Conventions were held and lists of grievances drawn up, the complaints being of the most irrational nature. The uprising known in history as the "Shays Rebellion," taking its name from Daniel Shays, one of the principal leaders, finally culminated in an attempt (January, 1787) to capture the arsenal at Springfield by a body of eleven hundred men under Shays, which was dispersed by a force of four thousand militia commanded by General Lincoln. Shays, after living in Vermont about a year, was par- doned and removed to Sparta, New York, where he died September 29, 1825. MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6. At Mount Vernon : " November 6. — On my return home [from riding to the plantations], found Col° Lewis Morris, and his Brother Major Jacob Morris here, who dined and returned to Alexandria afterwards where M" Lewis Morris & her Mother M""' Elliot were on their way to Charleston." — Washington's Diary. 5 66 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1786 " November 10. — With M" Washington and all the family, I went to Alexandria and dined with Docf Craik — returned in the Evening." — Wash- ington's Diary. THUKSDAY, NOVEMBEE 16. At Mount Vernon : " November 16. — On my Return home [from riding to the plantations], found Mons Campoint sent by the Marq^ de La Fayette with the Jack and two she Asses which he had procured for me in the Island of Malta and which had arrived at Baltimore with the Chinese Pheasants &c had with my Overseer &c got there before me — these Asses are in good order and appear to be very fine — The Jack is two years old and the She Asses one three & the other two." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27. At Mount Vernon : " November 27. — The Rev"* M' Keith, and the Rev** M'' Morse dined here & returned to Alexandria in the Evening." — Washington's Diary. Jedidiah Morse, D.D., whose visit to Mount Vernon is recorded in the Diary, was the author of the first American geography, published at New Haven, Connecticut, 1784. From a sketch of Washington, written by Dr. Morse for an edition of the geography issued at Elizabethtown, New Jersey, 1789, we transcribe his description of the personal habits and daily life of the Farmer of Mount Vernon : " He rises, in winter as well as summer, at the dawn of day ; and generally reads or writes some time before breakfast. He breakfasts about seven O'clock, on three small Indian hoe-cakes and as manj' dishes of tea. He rides immediately to his different farms, and remains with his labourers until a little past two o'clock, when he returns and dresses. At three he dines, commonly on a single dish, and drinks from half a pint to a pint of Madeira wine. This, with one small glass of punch, a draught of beer, and two dishes of tea (which he takes half an hour before sun-setting) constitutes his whole sustenance until the next day. Whether there be company or not, the table is always prepared by its elegance and exuberance for their recep- tion ; and the General remains at it for an hour after dinner, in familiar con- versation and convivial hilarity. It is then that every one present is called upon to give some absent friend as a toast ; the name not unfrequently awakens a pleasant remembrance of past events, and gives a new turn to the animated colloquy. General Washington is more chearful than he was in the army. Although his temper is rather of a serious cast and his counte- 1786] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 67 nance commonly carries the impression of thoughtfulness, yet lie perfectly relishes a pleasant story, an unaffected sally of wit, or a burlesque descrip- tion which surprises by its suddenness and incongruity with the ordinary appearance of the object described. After this sociable and innocent relaxa- tion, he applies himself to business ; and about nine o'clock retires to rest. This is the rotine, and this the hour he observes, when no one but his family is present ; at other times he attends politely upon his company until they wish to withdraw." THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30. At Mount Vernon : " November 30. — Surveying my new purchase of Mauley's and Frenchs Land, in order to lay the whole of into proper inclosures." — Washington's Diary. " December 1. — Employed as yesterday, Running round the Lands of Manley and French. December 2. — Finished running round the Fields of Mauleys and French's and rid afterwards to Dogue run and Muddy hole plantations. ' ' — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, DECEMBER 11. At Mount Vernon : " December 11. — In the Afternoon a M' Anstey (Commissioner from England for ascertaining the claims of the Refugees) with a M' Woodorf (supposed to be his Secretary) came in and stayed all Night." — Wash- ington's Diary. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30. At Mount Vernon : " December 30. — Staked out the fields at the Ferry Plantation to-day, according to the late modi- fication of them — visited the Ditchers and rid to Dogue run." — Washington's Diary. 1787. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3. At Alexandria: '■^January 3. — Rid to Alexandria to a meeting of the board of Directors of the Potomack C° — Did the business which occasioned the Meeting dined at Lomax's & returned home in the evening." — Washington'' s Diary. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10. At Mount Vernon : " January 10. — I rec'^ by express the ace* of the sudden death (by a fit of the Gout in the head) of my beloved Brother Col" Jn° Aug* Washington." * — Washington's Diary. Augustine Washington, of Pope's Creek, Westmoreland County, Virginia, the father of General Washington, had ten children : Butler, Lawrence, Augustine, and Jane by his first wife, Jane Butler ; George, Betty, Samuel, John Augustine, Charles, and Mildred by his second wife, Mary Ball, to whom he was married on the 6th of March, 1731. t Augustine Washington died April 12, 1743, aged forty-nine years, at an estate in King George, now Stafford, County, on the Rappahannock River, nearly opposite to Fredericks- burg, to which he had removed in 1739, seven years after the birth of his son George. THURSDAY, JANUARY 25. At Mount Vernon : " January 25. — On my return home [from a ride to the plantations] found M'' Madison here — and after Dinner M'' Griffith came in — both of whom stayed all night." — Washington'' s Diary. * John Augustine Washington died at his estate on the Nominy River, Westmoreland County, Virginia. f Three of the children died young, — Butler and Mildred in infancy, and Jane at the age of thirteen. 1787] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 69 ^^ January 28. — M'' Madison & M' Griffith going away after breakfast, (the former to attend Congress) I rid as yesterday to all y« Plant"'." — Wash- ington'' s Diary. TUESDAY, FEBRUAKY 6. At Mount Vernon : " February 6. — About Sundown Mess™ Bushrocl & Corben Washington [sons of John Augustine Washington] came in on their return from Berkeley County." — Washington's Diary. '■'■ February 1 . — Continued at home. February^. — At home all day. Feb- ruary 9. — My Bushrod Washington* and his Brother Corbin went away after breakfast." — Washington's Diary. WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14. At Mount Vernon : " February 14. — Rid immediately, after breakfast to French's Plantation to see a sick man — and intended to have gone to others but was driven back by the Rain." — WasMiigton's Diary. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17. At Mount Vernon : " February 17. — Went into the Neck to Mark some lines for fences. . . . Received before I had done a message acquainting me that Col° [Jeremiah] Wads- worth and a M'' Chaloner were here which brought me home." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20. At Alexandria : " February 20. — Went with M" Washing- ton to M' Fendalls to make a visit to CoP and M" [Henry] Lee. — dined and returned home in the Evening." — Wash- ington's Diary. THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22. At Mount Vernon : " February 22. — Rid to Muddy hole Dogue run & Frenchs Plantation. ... On my return home * The favorite nephew of General Washington, and devisee under his will of the Mount Vernon estate. 70 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1787 found M' Bryan Fairfax, his wife & daughter here." — Washington's Diary. '■'■ February 23. — At home all day. In the Evening M' Griffith came in and stayed all Night. February 24. — After breakfast Mr. Fairfax, his wife & daughter — and M' Griffith went away." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, MARCH 3. At Mount Vernon : " March 3. — The Rev"* M' Weems, and y* Doct' Craik who came here yesterday in the after- noon left this about Noon for Port Tob" [Port Tobacco, Maryland]." — Washington's Diary. The visitor at Mount Vernon, Mason Locke Weems, was the author of that curious compound of fact and fancy, religion and morality, which was published at George-Town in 1800, with the title, " A History of the Life and Death, Virtues and Exploits, of General George Washington ; dedicated to Mrs. Washington ; and containing a great many curious and valuable Anecdotes, tending to throw much light on the private as well \x% public life and character of that very Extraordinary Man ; the whole happily calculated to furnish a feast of true Wasbingtonian Entertainment and Improvement, both to ourselves and our children." The original production, after going through several editions, was almost entirely rewritten, and issued at Phila- delphia in 1808 as the sixth edition, with the title, "The Life of George Washington ; with curious Anecdotes, equally honorable to Himself, and exem.plarj' to his young Countrymen." This is the book in which the hatchet story, the cabbage-seed story, etc., first appeared, and which, notwith- standing its fabrications and fanciful anecdotes, has been more widely known and read than all the other biographies and sketches of Washington. Since that date (1808) more than fifty editions have been issued, the last bearing date 1892. In several years two editions were printed, and in 1816 three appeared, the fifteenth, sixteenth, and seventeenth. THURSDAY, MARCH 15. At Mount A-^ernon : " March 15. — Went out with my Compass in order to Mark the ground at Muddy hole in- tended for experiments, into half acre lotts, and two other pieces adjoining — all in field N° 2 — into 10 acre lotts — Also to mark the lines which divide field N" 1 from N" 2 & 3 — and the fields 6 & 7 at Dogue Run." — Washington's Diary. 1787] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 71 SUNDAY, MAKCH 25. At Mount Vernon : " Most of the legislatures have ap- pointed, and the rest it is said will appoint, delegates to meet at Philadelphia on the second Monday in May next in a general convention of the States, to revise and correct the defects of the federal system. Congress have also recog- nised and recommended the measure." — Washington to the Marquis de Lafayette. On February 21, Congress in session passed the following resolution: " That in the opinion of Congress it is expedient, that, on the second Mon- day in May next, a convention of delegates, who shall have been appointed by the several States, be held at Philadelphia, for the sole and express pur- pose of revising the Articles of Confederation, and reporting to Congress and the several legislatures such alterations and provisions therein, as shall, when agreed to in Congress and confirmed by the States, render the federal con- stitution adequate to the exigencies of government and the preservation of the Union." Early in December, 1786, the General Assembly of Virginia appointed "Washington one of the delegates from that State to attend a proposed gen- eral convention of all the States, to be held at Philadelphia, which was subsequently recommended by Congress in the foregoing resolution. Wash- ington at first declined the appointment, but at the urgent solicitation of the Governor of the State (Edmund Randolph) and others,* finally consented to serve. MONDAY, APRIL 16. At Alexandria : " April 16. — Went up to Alexandria to the Election of Delegates to Represent the Country in General Assembly— when Col" Mason and Docf Stuart were chosen. — Returned in the Evening, accompanied by * In this connection a letter from General Knox to "Washington, dated March 19, 1787, will be noticed in Sparks, vol. ix. p. 238, in which, after saying that he took it for granted that Washington would be constrained to accept the position of presiding oflacer of the convention, the general writes, " I am persuaded, that your name has had already great influence to induce the States to come into the measure, that your attendance will be grateful, that your presence would confer on the assembly a national complexion, and that it would more than any other circumstance induce a compliance with the propositions of the convention." 72 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1787 Col" Mason — \ns, two Sons William and George & his Son- in-Law Col" Cooke." — Washington's Diary. THURSDAY, APRIL 26. At Mount Vernon : " April 26. — Receiving an Express between 4 & 5 oclock this afternoon informing me of the extreme illness of my Mother and Sister Lewis I resolved to set out for Fredericksburgh by daylight in the Morning — and spent the evening in writing some letters on business respecting the Meeting of the Cincinnati to the Secretary General of the Society Gen' Knox." — Washington's Diary. " April 26. — Though so much afflicted with a rheumatic complaint (of which I have not been entirely free for six months) as to be under the necessity of carrying my arm in a sling for the last ten day>-, I had fixed on Monday next for my departure [for Philadelphia], and had made every necessary arrangement for the purpose, when (within this hour) I am called by an express, who assures me not a moment is to be lost to see a mother and only sister ( who are supposed to be in the agonies of death) expire ; and I am hastening to obey this melancholy call, after having just buried a brother who was the intimate companion of my youth, and the friend of my ripened age. ' ' — Washington to General Knox. FRIDAY, APRIL 27. At Fredericksburg : " April 27. — About sun rise I com- menced my journey as intended — Bated at Dumfries, and reached Fredericksburgh before two o'clock and found both my Mother & Sister better than I expected — the latter out of danger as is supposed, but the extreme low state in w*^'' the former was, left little hope of her recovery as she was exceedingly reduced and much debilitated by age and the disorder — Dined and lodged at my Sisjers." — Washington's Diary. '^^ April 28. — Dined at M" Lewis's and Drank Tea at Judge Mercers; — Gen' [George] Weedon, Col" Ch^ Carter, .Judge Mercer, and M'' .Jn° Lewis and his wife dined with me at rny sisters. April 29. — Dined at Col" Charles Carters — and drank Tea at M'' John Lewis's. ApHl 30. — Set out about Sun- rise on my return home. — halted at Dumfries for about an hour where I 1787] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 73 breakfasted — reached home about 6 oclock in a sm' shower, which did not continue (and that not hard) for more than 15 Minutes.'" — Washington's Diary. THURSDAY, MAY 3. At Mount Vernon : " 3Iay 3. — Rid to the Fishing landing — and thence to the Ferry, Frenchs, Dogiie Run, and Muddy hole Plantations with my Nephew Gr. W. [George Augustine Washington] to explain to him the !N"ature, and the ord' of the business at each as I would have it carried on during my absence at the Convention in Philadelphia." — Washing- ton's Diary. MONDAY, MAY 7. At Mount Vernon : " May 7. — At home preparing for my journey to Philadelphia." — Washington's Diary. " iJ/fl.y 8. — The weather being squally with Showers I dofer^ setting off till the Morning — M' Cha* Lee came in to dinner but left afterwards. " — Washingt07i's Diary. WEDNESDAY, MAY 9. Leaves Mount Vernon : " 3fay 9. — Crossed from M* Ver- non to M' Digges a little after Sun rise & pursuing the Rout by the way of Baltimore — dined at M' Rich** Hendersons in Bladensb^ and lodged at Maj"" Snowdens where feeling very severely a violent h^ ach & sick stomach I went to bed early." — Washington's Diary. ^^ May 10. — Very great appearances of Rain in the morning, & a little falling, induced me, tho' well recovered to wait till ab' 8 oclock before T set off — At one Oclock T arrived at Baltimore — Dined at the Fountain [Inn], & Supped & lodged at Doct' [James] M^Henrys — Slow Rain in the Even- ing. May 11. — Set off before breakfast — rid 12 Miles to Skerretts for it — baited there and proceeded without halting (weather threatning) to the Ferry at Havre de gras where I dined but could not cross the wind being turbiilent & squally — lodged here. May 12. — With difficulty (on ace* of the Wind) crossed the Susquehanna — Breakfasted at the Ferry house on the East side — Dined at the head of Elk (Hollingsworths Tavern) — and lodged at Wilmington at O'Flins [Tavern]— at the head of Elk I was overtaken by Jf Francis Corbin who took a seat in my Carriage." — Washington'' s Diary. 74 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1787 SUNDAY, MAY 13. At Philadelphia : " May 13.— About 8 Oclock M' Corbin and myself set out, and dined at Chester (M" Withys) where I was met by the Gen*' Mifflin (now Speaker of the Penn- sylvania Assembly) Knox and Yarnum — The Colonels Humphreys and Minges [Francis Mentges] — and Majors [William] Jackson and [Francis] Nicholas — With whom I proceeded to Philad* — at Grays Ferry the City light horse commanded by Col° [Samuel] Miles met me and escorted me in by the Artillery Officers who stood arranged & saluted as I passed — alighted through a crowd at M" Houses * — but being again warmly and kindly pressed by M'' & M""' Rob* Morris to lodge with them I did so and had my baggage removed thither f — Waited on the President [of the State] Doct' Franklin as soon as I got to Town — On my arrival, the Bells were chimed." — Washington's Diary. ^'■Philadelphia, May 14. — Yesterday His Excellency General Washing- ton, a member of the grand convention, arrived here, — He was met at some distance and escorted into the city by the troup of horse, and saluted at his entrance by the artillery. The joy of the people on the coming of this great and good man was shewn by their acclamations and the ringing of bells." — Pennsylvania Packet. MONDAY, MAY 14. At Philadelphia: ''May 14.— This being the day ap- pointed for the Convention to meet, such Members as were in town assembled at the State H'^ % but only two States being represented — viz — Virginia & Pennsylvania — agreed to at- tend at the same place at 11 Oclock to morrow. Dined in a family way at M" Morris's."— Washington's Diary. " May 15.— Repaired, at the hour' appointed to the State H", but no more States being represented than were yesterday (tho' several more members * Mrs. Mary House kept a boarding-house at the corner of Fifth and Market Streets. f Robert Morris resided on the south side of Market Street, below Sixth. \ The sessions of the Convention were held in the eastern room on the first floor, " Independence Chamber." 1787] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 75 had come in) we agreed to meet again to morrow. Gov' Randolph from Virginia came in to day. Dined with the Members, to the Gen' Meeting of the Society of the Cincinnati. May 16. — No more than two States being yet represented, agreed till a quoram of them should be formed to alter the hour of Meeting at the State house to one Oclock. Dined at the President Docf Franklins — and drank Tea, and spent the evening at M"' Jn" Penns. May 17. — M'' [John] Rutledge from Charleston and M' Ch. Pinkney from Con- gress having arrived gave a Representation to S" Carolina — and Col" Mason getting in this Evening placed all the Delegates from Virginia on the floor of Convention. Dined at M"" Powells* and dr'' Tea there. May 18.— The Representation from New York appeared on the floor to day. Dined at Greys ferry, and drank Tea at M'' Morris's — after which accompanied M" and some other Ladies to hear a M" O'Connell read (a charity aflair) the lady being reduced in circumstances had had recourse to this expedient to obtain a little money — her perform'* was tolerable — at the College Hall [Fourth, below Arch Street]. May 19. — No more States represented — Dined at M'' [Jared] IngersoUs — spent the evening at my lodgings & Re- tired to my Room soon." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, MAY 20. At Philadelphia : " 3Iay 20.— Dined with M^ & M" Mor- ris and other Company at their farm (called the Hills f) — Returned in the afternoon & drank Tea at M' Powells." — Washington's Diary. " May 21. — Delaware State was represented. Dined and drank Tea at M' Binghams J in great splendor. May 22. — The Representation from N» * Samuel Powel, mayor of Philadelphia in 1775 and 1789, lived at No. 112 Third Street, between Walnut and Spruce. The house, which is still standing, is now known as No. 244 South Third Street. Mr. Powel married Elizabeth Willing, sister of Thomas Willing, the well-known merchant. Washington was a frequent visitor at this house during his stay in the city. f "The Hills, ' which originally comprised eighty acres, lay upon the east bank of the Schuylkill River, north of Fairmount Hill, and extended to the Ridge Road. That portion of the land upon which the mansion-house stood, known in later years as Lemon Hill, is included in Fairmount Park. X William Bingham, member of Congress from Pennsylvania, 1787-88, and United States Senator, 1795-1801, married Anna, daughter of Thomas Willing, October 26, 1780. Mrs. Bingham was distinguished for her beauty, elegance of manner, and profuse hospitality. The Bingham mansion, on Third Street, above Spruce, was one of the finest private residences of the day. 76 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1787 Carolina was compleated which made a representation for five States. Dined and drank Tea at M' Morris's." — Washington's Diary. WEDNESDAY, MAY 23. At Philadelphia : " 3Iay 23. — No more States being rep- resented I rid to Gen^ Mifflins * to breakfast — after which in Company with him M"" Madison, M' Rutledge, and others I crossed the Schuylkill above the Falls — visited M' Peters f M' Penns Seat, — and M' W"" Hamiltons. " Dined at M^ [Benjamin] Chews [No. 110 South Third Street] — with the Wedding guests (Col° [John Eager] Howard of Baltimore having married his daughter Peggy) N>^ — ^Drank Tea there in a very large Circle of Ladies." — Washington's Diary. " Mai/ 24. — No more States represented. Dined, and drank Tea at M' John Boss's. J One of my Postilion boys (Paris) being sick, requested Doct' [John] Jones to attend him." — Washington's Diary. FKIDAY, MAY 25. At Philadelphia : " May 25. — Another Delegate coming in from the State of New Jersey gave it a Representation and encreased the number to Seven which forming a quoram of the 13 the Members present resolved to organize the body ; when by a unanimous vote I was called up to the Chair as President of the body.^Maj' William Jackson was appointed Secretary — and a Com** was chosen consist- * Thomas Mifflin's country house was on the Ridge Road, at the Falls of Schuylkill, on the east side of the river, in what is now the Twenty-eighth "Ward of the city of Philadelphia. The house was taken down quite recently. f Richard Peters, Judge of the United States District Court for Pennsyl- vania from 1792 until his death in 1818, was a warm personal friend of General Washington. The Peters estate, on the high land west of the Schuylkill River, about one mile and a half below the Falls, and known as "Belmont," is now in Fairmount Park. The mansion-house, erected in 1745 by William Peters, is still standing and occupied as a Park restaurant. X A prominent shipping merchant and importing agent of Philadelphia. A Scotchman by birth. 1787] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 77 ing of 3 Members * to prepare Rules & Regulations for conducting the business — and after appointing door keepers the Convention adjourned till Monday, to give time to the Com*° to report the Matter referred to them. " Returned many visits to day — Dined at M'' Tho' Will- ings t — and sp* the evening at my lodgings." — Washington's Diary. '■'■May 26. — Returned all my visits this forenoon dined with a club at the City Tavern and spent the evening at my quarters writing letters. May 27. — Went to the Rcflnish Church [St. Mary's, Fourth Street, above Spruce] — to high Mass — Dined, drank Tea, and spent the evening at my lodging." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, MAY 28. At Philadelphia : " May 28. — Met in Convention at 10 Oclock. Two States more — viz — Massachusetts and Con- necticut were on the floor to day. Established Rules — agreeably to the plan bro* in by the Com'® for the governm' of the Convention & adjourned. — No com"' without doors. | " Dined at home, and drank Tea in a large circle at M' [Tench] Francis's.'" — Washington's Diary. " May 29. — Attended Convention — and dined at home — after w"** accom- panied M" Morris to the benefit Concert [at the City Tavern] of a M' Jutan [Juhan]. May 30. — Dined with M' [John] Vaughan— drank Tea, and spent the evening at a Wednesday evening party at M' & M" Lawrences.^ May 31. — The State of Georgia came on the Floor of the Convention to day which made a Representation of ten States. Dined at M' Francis's and drank Tea with M" Meridith." — Washmgton's Diary. * George Wythe, Alexander Hamilton, and Charles Pinckney. f Thomas Willing, the head of the mercantile house of Willing & Morris (Robert Morris the financier), resided at the southwest corner of Third Street and Willing's Alley, below Walnut Street. He was the first president of the Bank of North America, the first bank chartered in this country, 1781. X One of the rules adopted by the Convention, to be observed in their proceedings as standing orders, reads thus: "That nothing spoken in the House be printed, or otherwise published, or communicated without leave." 2 John Lawrence, mayor of Philadelphia, 1765-66, and justice of the Supreme Court, 1767-76. 78 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1787 FRIDAY, JUNE 1. At Philadelphia: '■'■ June 1. — Attending in Convention — and nothing being suffered to transpire no minutes of the proceedings has been, or will be inserted in this diary. " Dined with M" John Penn, and spent the evening at a superb entertainment at Bush Hill given by M"" [William] Hamilton — at which were more than an hundred guests." — Washington's Diary. The estate called "Bush Hill," purchased in 1729 by Andrew Hamilton, the eminent lawyer, was part of the Springettsbury Manor. It lay north of Vine Street, in what is now the Fifteenth Ward of the city of Philadelphia, and the mansion, erected about 1740, stood on the north side of the present Buttonwood Street, between Seventeenth and Eighteenth Streets. It was occupied by John Adams during a portion of his term as Vice-President, and was destroyed by fire about the year 1808. SATURDAY, JUNE 2. At Philadelphia : " June 2.— M' [Daniel of St. Thomas] Jenifer coming in with sufficient powers for the purpose, gave a representation to Maryland ; which brought all the States in the Union into Convention except Rhode Island which had refused to send delegates thereto. " Dined at the City Tavern with the Club & spent the evening at my own quarters. June 3. — Dined at M'' [George] Clymers and drank Tea there also." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, JUNE 4. At Philadelphia : ^^ June 4:. — Attended Convention. — Rep- resentation as on Saturday. Reviewed (at the importunity of Gen' Mifflin and the officers) the Light Infantry — Cavalry — and part of the Artillery of the City. " Dined with Gen' Mifflin & dr'^ Tea with Miss Cadwalla- der." — Washington's Diary. ^'^ June 4. — In the evening my wife and I went to Market Street to see that great and good man General Washington. We had a full view of him and Major Jackson, who walked with him, but the number of people who followed him on all sides was astonishing. He had been out on the field to 1787] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 79 review Captain Samuel Miles with his Troop of Horse, the light infantry and artillery. ' ' — Diary of Jacob Hiltzheimer. TUESDAY, JUNE 5. At Philadelphia : " Ju7ie 5.- — Dined at M' Morris's with a large Company & spent the Evening there — Attended in Convention the usual hours." — Washington's Diary. ^^ June 6. — In Convention as usual — Dined at the Presidents (Docf Frank- lins) & drank Tea there — after which returned to my lodgings and wrote letters for France. June 7. — Attended Convention as usual — Dined with a Club of Convention Members at the Indian Queen [Tavern, Fourth, above Chestnut Street] — Drank Tea «& spent the evening at my lodgings. Ju7ie 8. — Attended the Convention. — Dined, drank Tea, and spent the evening at my lodg8». Jtme 9. — At Convention — Dined with the Club at the City Tavern — Drank Tea & set till 10 oclock at M' Powells." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, JUNE 10. At Philadelphia : " June 10. — Breakfasted at M' Powells, and in Company with him rid to see the Botanical Garden of M' [William] Bartram ; which, tho' stored with many curious plants, Shrubs & trees, many of which are exotics was not laid off with much taste, nor was it large. " From hence we rid to the Farm of one Jones, to see the effect of the plaister of Paris which appeared obviously great. . . . From hence we visited M*" Powells own farm after which I went (by appointment) to the Hills & dined with M' & M" Morris — Returned to the City ab' dark." — Washington's Diary. The Bartram gardens, the first botanical gardens in the United States, were founded in 1728 by John Bartram, a distinguished botanist of Phila- delphia. They were situated on the west bank of the Schuylkill Kiver, a short distance below the lower ferry, afterward called Gray's Ferry. The house, built by him in 1731, is still standing. John Bartram, cited by Lin- naeus as the greatest natural botanist in the world, died September 2, 1777 ; he was succeeded by his son William, who had like tastes. Both father and son travelled extensively through the United States, collecting specimens. The gardens, comprising about seven acres in what is now the Twenty- 80 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1787 seventh Ward of the city of Philadelphia, have been lately purchased with some additional land, by the city, for a public park. MONDAY, JUNE 11. At Philadelphia : " June 11. — Attended in Convention — Dined, drank Tea, and spent the evening in ray own Room." — Washington's Diary. '■'■June 12. — Dined and drank Tea at M' Morris's — went afterwards to a concert [of Mr. Keinagle] at the City Tavern. June 13. — In Convention — dined at M' Clymers & drank Tea there. Spent the evening at M'' Bing- hams. June 14. — Dined at Major [Thomas Lloj^d] Moores (after being in Convention) and spent the evening at my own lodgings. June 15. — In Convention as usual — dined at M'' Powells & drank Tea there. June 16. — In Convention — Dined with the Club at the City Tavern — and drank Tea at Doct' Shippins with M" Livingstons party." * — Washinfftoji's Diary. SUNDAY, JUNE 17. At Philadelphia : " June 17. — Went to [Christ] Church — heard Bishop White preach, and see him ordain two Gen- tlemen Deacons — after w"^ rid 8 Miles into the Country and dined with M' Jn° Ross in Chester County — Returned in the Afternoon." — Washington's Diary. '■'■June 18. — Attended the Convention — Dined at the Quarterly Meeting of the Sons of S* Patrick at the City Tav°— Drank Tea at D"- Shippins with M" Livingston. June 19. — Dined (after leaving Convention) in a family way at M' Morris's and spent the Evening there in a very large Company. June 20. — Attended Convention — Dined at M'' [Samuel] Merediths f & drank Tea there. June 21. — Attended Convention — Dined at M' Pragers, and spent the evening in my Chamber. June 22. — Dined at M"" Morris's «fe drank Tea with M' Frans. Hopkinson. June 23. — In Convention — Dined at Docf [Thomas] Ruston & drank Tea at M' Morris's. June 24.— Dined at M' Morris's & spent the evening at M' Meridiths— at Tea, June 25.— Attended Convention — Dined at M"' Morris's — drank Tea there «fe spent the evening in my chamber. June 26. — Attended Convention — partook of a family dinner with Gov' Randolph, — and made one of a party to drink Tea * Dr. William Shippen, the younger, and his daughter Anne Hume, who married Henry Beekman Livingston, son of Robert R. Livingston, March 11, 1781. f Member of Congress 1787-88, and Treasurer of the United States from 1789 to 1801. 1787] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 81 at Grays Ferry.* June 27. — In Convention — Dined at M' Morris's— drank Tea there also — and spent the evening in my own chamber. June 28. — At- tended Convention— Dined at M' Morris's in a large Company (the news of his Bills being protested arriving last Night a little Mal-apropos) — Drank Tea there & spent the evening in my chamber. Ju7ie 29. — In Convention — Dined at M' Morris's and spent the evening there." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, JUNE 30. At Philadelphia : " June 30. — Attended Convention — Dined with a Club at Springsbury [? Springettsbury]— con- sisting of several associated families of the City — the Gen- tlemen of which met every Saturday accompanied by the females of the families every other Saturday — this was the ladies day." — Washington'' s Diary. Of this dining club, known as the "Cold Spring Club," we have been unable to obtain any information other than the fact that Tench Francis, the first cashier of the Bank of North America, acted as treasurer for it in the summers of 1786 and 1787. It is presumed that the place of meeting must have been at some point in the Springettsbury Manor, a large tract of land adjoining the city of Philadelphia on the northwest, and in which there were a number of large springs. Besides the Saturday above men- tioned, Washington dined with the club, as appears by his Diary, on July 7, 14, 21, 28, on August 11 and 25, and on September 8. SUNDAY, JULY 1. At Philadelphia : " Every body wishes, every body expects something from the convention ; but what will be the final result of its deliberation, the book of fate must disclose. Persuaded I am, that the primary cause of all our disorders lies in the different State governments, and in the tenacity * The garden at Gray's Ferry, on the west side of the Schuylkill Eiver, three miles southwest of the city, was one of the most popular resorts of the day. The grounds were laid out with pleasant walks and ornamental shrubbery, and every means, such as concerts, fireworks, and the like, were used to make the place attractive. Out-of-door parties attended by the best people of the city were frequently held at the garden, and on several public occasions fetes were given by the proprietors, George and Robert Gray. Manasseh Cutler, who visited the garden at Gray's Ferry, July 14, 1787, gives in his journal an elaborate description of the beauty and arrangement of the grounds. 6 82 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1787 of that power, which pervades the whole of their systems." — Washington to David Stuart. ^^ July 1. — Dined and spent the evening at home. July 2. — Attended Convention — Dined with some of the Members of Convention at the Indian Queen. Drank Tea at M' Binghams, and walked afterwards in the State house yard. Set this Morning for M' Pine who wanted to correct his port' of me."* — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, JULY 3. At Philadelphia : " July 3. — Sat before the meeting of the Convention for M' [Charles Willson] Peale who wanted my picture to make a print or Metzotinto by.f Dined at M' Morris's and drank Tea at M" Powells — after which in Company with him, I attended the agricultural Society at Carpenters Hall."| — Washington's Diary. '■'■July 3. — Keturning from a visit to my meadow before breakfast, with my daughter Hannah, we met His Excellency General "Washington taking a ride on horseback, only his coachman Giles with him." — Diary of Jacob Hiltzheimer. WEDNESDAY, JULY 4. At Philadelphia : " July 4. — ^Visited Doct' Shovats Ana- tomical figures — and (the Convention having adjourned for the purpose) went to hear an Oration on the Anniversary of Independence delivered by a M' Mitchell a student of Law. — After which I dined with the State Society of the * The portrait painted by Mr. Pine at Mount Vernon in May, 1785. f Mr. Peale made several copies of the bust portrait resulting from this and the subsequent sittings noted in the Diary, under dates of July 6 and 9. The mezzotinto executed from it is well known to collectors, although im- pressions of it have become extremely rare. A description of this interesting print will be found on page 18 of Baker's " Engraved Portraits of Washing- ton." J This building, in which the sessions of the Congress of 1774 (the First Continental Congress) were held, and to which Washington was a delegate, was erected by " The Carpenters Company of the City and County of Phila- delphia" in 1770. It is still standing in perfect preservation, back from the south side of Chestnut Street, below Fourth. 1787] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 83 Cincinnati at Epplees Tavern [No. 117 Race Street], and drank Tea at M' Powells." — Washington's Diary. The Pennsylvania Joitrtial of July 4, in the following notice of this cele- bration of the anniversary of independence, gives a difi'erent name for the orator of the day from that in the Diary : " THIS MORNING, at the hour of eleven being the Anniversary of Independence, an Oration will be pro- nounced by James Campbell, esquire, in honor of the day, at the Reformed Calvinist Church, in Race-street [below Fourth, south side] — the business of the day to be introduced by Prayer, by the Rev. William Rogers, and the doors to be opened at 10 o'clock." THURSDAY, JULY 5. At Philadelphia : " July 5. — Attended Convention — Dined at M"" Morris's and drank Tea there — spent the evening also." — Washington's Diary. '■'•July 6.— Sat for M' Peale in the Morning — attended Convention — Dined at the City Tavern with some members of Convention — and spent the evening at my lodgings. July 7. — Attended Convention — Dined with the Club at Springsburg — and drank Tea at M'' Meridiths." — Washington'' s Diary. SUNDAY, JULY 8. At Philadelphia : " July 8.— About 12 Oclock rid to Doct' Logans * near Germantown where I dined — Returned in the evening and drank Tea at M' Morris's." — Washington's Diary. '■'•July 9. — Sat in the Morning for M' Peale — Attended Convention — Dined at M"' Morris's — «& accompanied M" Morris to Docf [John] Red- mans 3 Miles in the Country where we drank Tea and returned. July 10. — Attended Convention — Dined at M' Morris's — Drank Tea at Mr. Binghams & went to the Play [at the South wark Theatre]. July 11. — Attended Con- vention — Dined at M' Morris's and spent the evening there. July 12. — In Convention — Dined at M'' Morris's & drank Tea with M" Livingston. July 13. — In Convention — Dined, drank Tea & spent the Evening at M'' Morris's. * Dr. George Logan resided at " Stenton," on the Germantown road, a short distance below Germantown. The house built in 1728 by his grand- father James Logan is still standing. Washington passed the night of August 23, 1777, at " Stenton," when on his way to meet the British army under General Howe, at the Chesapeake. 84 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1787 July 14. — In Convention — Dined at Springsbury with the Club — and went to the play in the Afternoon. July 15. — Dined at M'' Morris's & remained at home all day. July 16. — In Convention - Dined at M"' Morris's and drank Tea with M" Powell." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, JULY 17. At Philadelphia : " July 17. — In Convention — Dined at M" House's, and made an excursion with a party for Tea to Grays Ferry." — Washington's Diary '■'■July 17. — In the afternoon went with my wife, Matthew Clarkson, and Mr. & Mrs. Barge to Mr. Grays ferry, where we saw the great improve- ments made in the garden, summer houses, and walks in the woods. Gen- eral Washington and a number of other gentlemen of the present Conven- tion, came down to spend the afternoon." — Diary of Jacob Hiltzheimer. WEDNESDAY, JULY 18. At Philadelphia : " July 18. — In Convention — Dined at M' [Robert] Milligans — and drank Tea at M' Meridiths." — Washington's Diary. " July 19. — Dined (after coming out of Convention) at M'' John Penn the Youngers — Drank Tea & spent the evening at my lodgings. July 20. — In Convention — Dined at home and drank Tea at M'' Clymers. July 21. — In Convention — Dined at Springsbury with the Club of Gentl™ & Ladies — Went to the Play afterwards" — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, JULY 22. At Philadelphia : " July 22.— Left Town by 5 oclock A.M. — breakfasted at Gen^ Mifflins — Rode up with him & others to the Spring Mills * and returned to Gen^ Mifflins to Din- * On the Schuylkill, a short distance below Conshohocken, the Matson's Ford of the Revolution. The old mill, said to be the oldest grist-mill in Pennsylvania, is still in operation. Washington visited Spring Mill for the purpose of inspecting the vineyard and bee colony established there by Peter Legaux, a Frenchman of intelli^CTice who came to this country in 1785. The following entry in Mr. Legaux's manuscript diary refers to this visit : "■ July 22, 1787. — This day Gen. Washington, Gen. Mifflin and four others of the Convention did us the honor of paying us a visit in order to see our vineyard and bee houses. In this they found great delight, asked a number of questions, and testified their highest approbation with my manner of managing bees, which gave me a great deal of pleasure." 1787] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 85 ner after which proceeded to the City." — Washington'' s Diary. ^'^ July 23. — In Convention as usual — Dined at M' Morris's and drank Tea at Lansdown* (the Seat of M'' Penn). July 24. — In Convention — Dined at M'' Morris's, and drank Tea, by appointment & parf Invitation at Docf [Benjamin] Rush's. July 25. — In Convention — Dined at Mr. Morris's, drank Tea & spent the evening there. July 26. — In Convention. — Dined at M"^ Morris's, drank Tea there, and stayed within all the Afternoon." — Wash- ington's Diary. FRIDAY, JULY 27. At Philadelphia: '■'' July 27. — In Convention, which ad- journed this day, to meet again on Monday the 6"" of August f that a Com*® which had been appointed (consisting of 5 members I) might have time to arrange, and draw into method k form the several matters which had been agreed to by the Convention as a Constitution for the United States. " Dined at M' Morris's, and drank Tea at M' Powells." — Washington^ Diary. '^'^ July 28. — Dined with the Club at Springsbury — Drank Tea there — and spent the Evening at my lodgings. July 29. — Dined and spent the whole day at,M' Morris's principally in writing letters." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, JULY 30. Near Valley Forge : " July 30. — In company with M' Gov' [Gouverneur] Morris, and in his Phoeton with my * " Lansdowne," originally comprising about two hundred acres and im- mediately south of "Belmont," the seat of Judge Peters, was one of the finest properties on the west bank of the Schuylkill. The mansion-house, erected by John Penn the elder, was destroyed by fire July 4, 1854. In 1707 "Lansdowne" became the property of William Bingham, from whom it descended to the Barings, which family retained possession of it until about 1866, when it was purchased by citizens of Philadelphia, ceded to the city, and is now included in Fairmount Park. f According to the Journal of the Convention in the archives of the De- partment of State, "Washington, D.C.. the adjournment to August 6 was made on July 26, and not on the 27th, as stated by Washington. X John Rutledge, Edmund Randolph, Nathaniel Gorham, Oliver Ells- worth, and James Wilson. 86 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1787 horses; went up to one Jane Moores in the vicinity of Valley Forge to get Trout." — Washington' s Diary. The Jane Moore referred to was the owner and occupant of two hundred and seventy-five acres of land in Upper Merion Township, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. The property was situated about one mile west of the Schuylkill Elver, on Trout Creek, a stream which has its source in Chester County near the present village of Berwyn, and empties into the Schuylkill three miles below Valley Forge. It has been stated that " Moore Hall," the seat of William Moore, Esq., three miles above Valley Forge, was the objective point of the excursion recorded in the Diary. This is undoubt- edly an error. William Moore died May 30, 1782, and his widow William- ina, December 6, 1784, after which the family removed to Philadelphia. " Moore Hall" was advertised for private sale July 5, 1787, and offered at public vendue October 17, 1787. It was probably not occupied in July of that year. The mistake doubtless had its origin in an item printed in the Pennsylvania Packet (and other Philadelphia papers), Wednesday, August 1, 1787: "Monday his Excellency General Washington set out for Moore Hall in order to visit his old quarters at the Valley Forge in this State." A statement at variance with the Diary entry. TUESDAY, JULY 31. At Valley Forge : " July 31.— Whilst M"" Morris was fish- ing I rid over the old Cantonment of the American [army] of the Winter 1777 & 8 — visited all the Works w"^ were in Ruins ; and the Incampments in woods where the ground had not been cultivated. . . . On my Return to M" Moores I found M' Rob' Morris & his Lady there." — Washington's Diary. ^^ August 1. — About 11 o'clock, after it had ceased raining, we all set out for the City — and dined at M'' Morris's. August 2. — Dined, Drank Tea & spent the Evening at M'' Morris's.'' — Washington's Diary. FKIDAY, AUGUST 3.* At Trenton, ITew Jersey : " August 3. — In company with M' Rob* Morris and his Lady — and M'^ Gouv"" Morris I went * " Philadelphia, August 4. — His Excellency General Washington attentive to every thing interesting to his country, yesterday [August 3] visited and examined the steel furnace belonging to Nancarrow and Matlack, lately re- built, in this city. It is much the largest and best constructed furnace in 1787] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 87 up to Trenton on another Fishing party — lodged at CoP Sam Ogdens at the Trenton [Iron] Works — In the Evening fished, not very successfully." — Washington's Diary. ^'■August 4. — In the morning, and between breakfast & dinner, fished again with more success (for perch) than yesterday — Dined at Gen' [Phile- mon] Dickenson's on the East side of the River a little above Trenton & returned in the evening to Col" Ogden's. August 5. — Dined at Col" Ogdens, early ; after which in the company with which I came, 1 returned to Phila- delphia at which we arrived ab' 9 Ocl''." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, AUGUST 6. At Philadelphia : " August 6. — Met according to adjourn- ment in Convention, & received the Rep' of the Committee —Dined at M' Morris's and drank Tea at M' Meridiths." — Washington's Diary. " August 7. — In Convention — Dined at M' Morris's and spent the evening there also. August 8. — In Convention — Dined at the City Tavern and re- mained there till near ten o'clock. August 9. — In Convention — Dined at M"^ [John] Swanwicks and spent the Aftern" in my own Room — reading letters and ace'' from home. August 10. — Dined (after coming out of Convention) at M"' Binghams and drank Tea there — spent the evening at my lodgings. August 11. — In Convention — Dined at the Club at Springsbury and after Tea returned home. August 12. — Dined at Bush-hill with M'' William Hamilton — Spent the evening at home writing letters. August 13. — In Con- vention — Dined at M'' Morris's, and drank Tea with M" Richard Bache, at the President's. August 14. — In Convention — Dined, drank Tea, and spent the evening at home. August 15. — The same as yesterday. August 16. — In Convention — Dined at M'' Pollocks *& spent the evening in my chamber. August 17. — In Convention — Dined and drank Tea at M'' Powells. August 18. — In Convention — Dined at Chief Justice [Thomas] McKeans — spent the afternoon & evening at my lodgings." — Washington's Diary. America, being charged with fourteen tons of iron at that time, converting into steel ; and His Excellency was pleased to express his approbation of it." — Pennsylvania Packet. * Oliver Pollock, an Irishman by birth and at one time a prominent mer- chant in New Orleans. He espoused the cause of the Colonies and rendered substantial pecuniary aid during the war for independence. Mr. Pollock died in Mississippi, December 17, 1823, at an advanced age. 88 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1787 SUNDAY, AUGUST 19. At Whitemarsh, Pennsylvania : ^^ August 19. — In company with M"" Powell rode up to the White Marsh — traversed my old Incampment,* and contemplated on the dangers which threatened the American Army at that place — Dined at Germantown — visited M' Blair M^Cleneganf — drank Tea at ]SP Peter's [Belmont] and returned to Philadelphia in the evening." — Washington's Diary. "August 20. — In Convention — Dined, drank Tea and spent the evening at M' Morris. August 21. — Did the like this day also. August 22. — In Convention — Dined at M'' Morris's farm at the Hills — visited at M' Powells in the Afternoon. August 23. — In Convention — Dined, drank Tea & spent the evening at M"" Morris's. August 24. — Did the same this day. August 25. — In Convention — Dined with the Cluh at Springsburj- & spent the after- noon at my lodgings. August 26. — Rode into the Country for exercise 8 or 10 miles — Dined at the Hills and spent the evening in my charhber writing letters. August 27. — In Convention — Dined at M'' Morris's and drank Tea at M"" Powells. August 28. — In Convention — Dined, drank Tea, and spent the evening at M' Morris's. August 29. — Did the same as yesterday. August 30. — Again the same. August 31. — In Convention — Dined at M'' Morris's and with a Party went to Lansdale [Lansdowne]& drank Tea with M^ «fc M" Penn. September 1. — Dined at M'' Morris after coming out of Convention and drank Tea there. September 2. — Rode to M'' Bartrams and other places in the Country, — Dined & drank Tea at Grays ferry and returned to the City in the evening." — Washington s Diary. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 3. At Philadelphia : " September 3. — In Convention — visited a Machine at Docf Franklins (called a Mangle) for pressing, in place of Ironing, clothes from the wash — "Which Machine from the facility with which it dispatches business is well calculated for Table cloths & such articles as have not pleats * The Continental army was encamped at Whitemarsh, twelve miles north of Philadelphia, from November 2 to December 11, 1777. t Blair McClenachan, a prominent merchant of Philadelphia, was at this time a resident of the historic Chew Hotise (Cliveden) at Germantown, still standing, which he had purchased from Benjamin Chew in September, 1779. He retained the ownership until April, 1797, when he reconveyed the prop- erty to Judge Chew. 1787] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 89 & irregular foldings and would be very useful in all large families — Dined, drank Tea & spent the evening at M' Morris's." — Washington's Diary. ^^ September 4^. — In Convention — Dined &c at M' Morris's. September b. — In Convention— Dined at M" Houses & drank Tea at M'' Binghams. September 6. — In Convention — Dined at Docf [James] Hutchinsons and spent the afternoon and evening at M'' Morris's. September 7. — In Conven- tion — Dined, and spent the afternoon at home (except while riding a few Miles). September 8. — In Convention — Dined at Spriugsbury with the Club — and spent the evening at my lodgings. September 9. — Dined at M'' Morris's after making a visit to M' Gardoqui (Minister from Spain) who as he says came from New York on a visit to me. September 10. — In Conven- tion — Dined at M' Morris's & drank Tea there. September 11. — In Conven- ticii — Dined at home in a large Company with M' Gardoqui — drank Tea — and spent the evening there. September 12. — In Convention — Dined at the President's and drank Tea at M'' Pines." — Washington' s Diary. THUKSDAT, SEPTEMBEK 13. At Philadelphia : " September 13. — Attended Convention, Dined at the Vice Presidents Cha' Biddies * — Drank Tea at M'' Powells." — Washington's Diary. "When he [Washington] was in the Convention I dined several times in company with him, and had the honor of his company to dine with me. When he was elected President of the United States, he lived during the whole of the time he was in Philadelphia nearly opposite to me. At that time I saw him almost daily. I frequently attended his levees to introduce some friend or acquaintance and called sometimes with Governor Mifflin. The General always behaved politely to the Governor, but it appeared to me that he had not forgotten the Governor's opposition to him during the Revo- lutionary war. He was a most elegant figure of a man, with so much dignity of manner, that no person whatever could take any improper liber- ties with him. I have heard M' Robert Morris, who was as intimate with him as any man in America, say that he was the only man in whose pres- ence he felt any awe. You would seldom see a frown or a smile on his countenance, his air was serious and reflecting, yet I have seen him in the theatre laugh heartily." — Autobiography of Charles Biddle, p. 284. * Charles Biddle was Vice-President of Pennsylvania from October 10, 1785, to October 9, 1787. 90 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1787 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14. At Philadelphia : " September 14. — Attended Convention — Dined at the City Tavern, at an entertainm* given on my ace* by the City light Horse. — Spent the evening at M' Meridiths." — Washington's Diary. ^ The "City light Horse," now known as the "First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry," was organized November 17, 1774. Of this crack company it has been said, "That troop proved time and time again, as Lee's and Washington's Legion subsequently proved in the Carolinas, that there is room in society for the order of gentlemen, and that in time of stress it is well for the State to have a class to call on who will die as gayly as they dance, and will pour out their blood, as they were wont to do their fortunes, for faith and honor, for sentiment and ideals." * SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15. At Philadelphia : " September 15. — Concluded the business of Convention all to signing the proceedings; to effect which the House sat till 6 oclock ; and adjourned till Mon- day that the Constitution which it was proposed to offer to the People might be engrossed — and a number of printed copies struck off — Dined at M' Morris's & spent the evening- there. " M' Gardoqui set off for his return to New York this forenoon." — Washington's Diary. ^^ September 16. — Wrote many letters in the forenoon — Dined with M"" & M" Morris at the Hills & returned to town in the Evens." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 17. At Philadelphia : " September 17. — Met in Convention when the Constitution received the unanimous assent of 11 States t and Col" Hamilton's from New York (the only * Bradley T. Johnson, " Life of General Washington," p. 159. t When it appeared that the consent of eleven States was recorded in favor of the Constitution, Franklin, looking toward a sun which was blazoned on the President's chair, said of it to those near him, " In the vicissitudes of hope and fear I was not able to tell whether it was rising or setting ; now I know that it is the rising sun." 1787] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 91 delegate from thence in Convention) and was subscribed to by every Member present except Gov' Randolph and CoP Mason from Virginia — & M' Gerry from Massachusetts. " The business being thus closed, the Members adjourned to the City Tavern, dined together and took a cordial leave of each other — after which I returned to my lodgings — did some business with, and received the papers from the Sec- retary of the Convention, and retired to meditate on the momentous w^ which had been executed, after not less than five, for a large part of the time Six, and sometimes 7 hours sitting every day [except], Sundays & the ten days adjournment to give a Com** opportunity & time to arrange the business for more than four Months." — Washington's Diary. In transmitting to the President of Congress the full text of the proposed Constitution, Washington wrote, "In all our deliberations on this subject we kept steadily in our view, that which appears to us the greatest interest of every true American, the consolidation of our Union, in which is involved our prosperity, felicity, safety, perhaps our national existence. This impor- tant consideration, seriously and deeply impressed on our minds, led each state in the Convention to be less rigid on points of inferior magnitude than might have been otherwise expected ; and thus the Constitution, which we now present, is the result of a spirit of amity, and of that mutual deference and concession which the peculiarity of our political situation rendered indis- pensible. ' ' • TUESDAY, SEPTEMBEK 18. Leaves Philadelphia: ^^ September 18. — Finished what private business I had to do in the City this forenoon — took my leave of those families in w*'* I had been most intimate dined early at M' Morris's with whom & M'' Gouv'' Morris I parted at Grays ferry — and reached Chester in Company with M' [John] Blair who I invited to a seat in my Carriage 'till we should reach Mount Vernon." — Washington's Diary. ^^ September 19. — Prevented by Kain (much of which fell in the Night) from setting off till about 8 o'clock, when it ceased & promising to be fair we departed — baited at "Wilmington — dined at Christiana and lodged at the head of Elk. — At the bridge near to which my horses (two of them) and 92 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1787 Carriage had a very narrow escape, for the Kain which had fallen the pro- ceeding evening having swelled the water considerably there was no fording it safely I was reduced to the necessity therefore of remaining on the other side or of attempting to cross on an old, rotten »fe long disused bridge — Being anxious to get on I preferred the latter and in the attempt one of my horses fell 15 feet at least the other very near following which (had it happened) would have taken the Carriage with baggage along with him and destroyed the whole effectually — however by prompt assistance of some people at a Mill just by and great exertion, the first horse was disengaged from his harness, the 2'* prevented from going quite through and drawn off and the Carriage rescued from hurt. September 20. — Sett off after an early breakfast — crossed the Susquehanna and dined in Havre de gras at the House of one Eogers — and lodged at Skirrets Tavern 12 Miles short of Baltimore. Sep- iember 21. — Breakfasted in Baltimore — dined at the Widow Balls (formerly Spurriers) — and lodged at Major Snowdens who was not at home." — Wash- ington's Diary. SATUKDAY, SEPTEMBER 22. At Mount Vernon : " September 22. — Breakfasted at Bladensburgh and passing through George Town dined in Alexandria and reached home (with M"" Blair) about sun set after an absence of four Months and 14 days." — Washing- ton's Diary. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 24. At Mount Vernon : " In the first moment after my return, I take the liberty of sending. to you a copy of the constitu- tion, which the federal convention has submitted to the people of these States. ... I wish the constitution which is offered, had been more perfect ; but I sincerely believe it is the best that could be obtained at this time." — Washing- ton to Patrick Henry. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 3. At Abingdon : " October 3. — Went up with M" "Washing- ton to Abingdon — Dined at M' Herberts in Alexandria on our way." — Washington's Diary. " October 4. — Dined at Abingdon and came home in the Afternoon — bro* Eanny Washington with us." — Washington's Diary. 1787] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 93 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 5. At Mount Vernon : " October 5. — In the Afternoon M' Alex' Donald came in. October 7. — After breakfast M' Donald went away." — Washington's Diary. " I staid two days with General Washington at Mount Vernon about six weeks ago. He is in perfect good health, and looks almost as well as he did twenty years ago. I never saw him so keen for anything in my life as he is for the adoption of the new scheme of government. As the eyes of all America are turned towards this truly great and good man for the first President, I took the liberty of sounding him upon it. He appears to be earnestly against going into public life again ; pleads in excuse for himself his love of retirement and his advanced age, but notwithstanding of these, I am fully of opinion he may be induced to appear once more on the public stage of life. I form my opinion from what passed between us in a very long and serious conversation, as well as from what I could gather from Mrs. Washington on the same subject." — Alexander Donald to Thomas Jefferson, November 12, 1787. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 6. At Mount Vernon : " October 6. — Towards evening M"" & M" [Samuel] Powell of Philadelphia came in." — Washing- ton's Diary. " October 8. — Rid with M' Powell to my Plantations at Muddy hole, Dogue run Frenchs & the Ferry. October 9. — Rid with M"' & M" Powell to view the ruins of Belvoir. October 10. — M' & M" Powell going away after an early breakfast I rid to all my Plantations." — Washington's Diary. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 11. At Mount Vernon : " October 11. — In the evening Gen. [Charles Cotes worth] Pinkney and his Lady came in on their return to South Carolina from the Federal Conven- tion." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 14. At Mount Vernon : " October 14. — A Severe frost this Morning, which killed Pease, Buckwheat, Pumpkins, Po- tatoe Vines &c turning them quite black." — Washington's Diary. 94 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1787 MONDAY, OCTOBER 22. At George Town : " October 22. — Went up to a meeting of the Pot' Company at George Town — called at Muddy hole Plantation in my way — did the business which called the Com^ together — dined at Shuters Tavern and returned as far as Abingdon at Night." — Washington's Diary. ^^ October 23. — After a very early breakfast at Abingdon, I arrived at Muddy hole Plantation by 8 o'clock." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27. At Mount Vernon : " October 27. — Went to the Woods back of Muddy hole with the hounds— unkennelled 2 foxes and dragged others but caught none — the dogs running wildly and being under no command." — Washington'' s Diarg. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 28. At Pohick Church : " October 28.— Went to Pohick Church — M' Lear & Washington Custis in the Carriage with me." — Washington's Diary. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1. At Alexandria : " November 1. — Eid by the way of Muddy hole where the people were taking up Turnips to transplant for Seed to Alexandria to attend a Meeting of the Directors of the Potomack Company — also the exhibition of the Boys of the Academy in this place. — Dined at Lehigh [? Leigh's] Tavern & lodged at Col° Fitzgerald's after returning ab* 11 o'clock at ISTight from the performance which was well exe- cuted." — Washington's Diary. " November 2. — After breakfast I returned home by way of Muddy hole, Dogue Run, Frenchs and the Ferry." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 4. At Mount Vernon : " November 4. — After the Candles were lighted M'' & M" Powell came in." — Washington's Diary. " November 5. — M'' & M" Powell remaining here I continued at home all day. November 6. — M'' «S: M" Powell crossing the River to M"' Digges a 1787] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 95 little after sun rise I accompanied them that far & having my horse carried into the Neck I rid round that and all the other plantations." — Washingio7i' s Diary. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8. At Alexandria : " November 8. — Went up to Alexandria to meet the Directors of the Potomack Comp^ — Dined at M'' Leighs Tavern and ref* in the afternoon." — Washington's Diary. " November 15. — Went to Alexandria to an Election of a Senator, for the district of Fairfax & Prince "William. . . . Gave my suffrage for M'' Tho^ West who with a M' Pope from the other County were Candidates and returned home to dinner through the midst of the Rain from an apprehen- sion that the weather was not likely to abate in the evening." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 18. At Mount Vernon : " November 18. — To dinner came M'' Potts his wife and Brother and M'' Wilson from Alexandria — and soon after them Co? Humphreys." — Washington'' s Diary. MONDAY, NOVEMBER 19. At Mount Yernon : " November 19. — M' Kob* Morris, M' Gou' [Gouverneur] Morris & Doct'' Ruston came in before Dinner." — Washington's Diary. " November 21. — Mess" Morris's & Docf Ruston went away after Break- fast — with the first two I rid a few Miles — and then visited my plantations at Frenchs, Dogue Run & Muddy hole on my Return." — Washington's Diary. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29. At Mount Vernon : " November 29. — In Company with CoP Humphreys Maj' Washington & M"" Lear went a hunt- ing, found a fox about 11 o'clock near the Pincushion — run him hard for near 3 quarters of an hour & then lost him. M" Lund Washington who joined us, came & dined with us and returned afterwards." — Washington's Diary. 96 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1787 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30. At Mount Vernon : " I have seen no publication yet, that ought in my judgment to shake the proposed constitution in the mind of an impartial and candid public. In fine, I have hardly seen one, that is not addressed to the passions of the people, and obviously calculated to alarm their fears. Every attempt to amend the constitution at this time is in my opinion idle and vain." — Washington to David Stuart. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1. At Mount Vernon : " December 1. — Went with Col" Hum- phreys, Maj"" W. & M' Lear a fox hunting, found a fox ab' 9 oclock & run him hard till near 10 and lost him." — Wash- ington's Diary. '^December 5. — Went out, in Company with Col" Humphreys, with the hounds after we had breakfasted — took the drag of a Fox on the side of Hunting Creek near the Cedar gut — carried it through Muddy hole Planta- tion into the "Woods back of it — and lost it near the Main Road. December 8. — Went a hunting after breakfast; about Noon found a fox between Muddy hole & Pincushion, which the Dogs run for some time in Wood thro which there was no following them so whether they caught, or lost it is uncertain." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15. At Mount Vernon : " December 15. — A little after Sun rise, in company with the Gentlemen who came yesterday [Messrs. Rumney, Manshur, and Porter] — Col° Humphreys, Maj' Washington & M' Lear, went a hunting ; but did not get a fox on foot nor is it certain we ever touched on the trail of one. — The Gentlem" and Lund Washington (who joined us) came home to dinner & returned home after- wards." — Washington's Diary. " December 22. — After our usual breakfasting Col" Humphreys, Maj"" Washington & my.self with M'' Lear went out with the hounds— dragged up the Creek to the Gum Spring and then the Woods between Muddy hole, Dogue Run &Col° Masons Quarters without touching on the trail of a fox. — I visited the Plantations (in going out & coming home) except the Neck. December 26. — Col" Humphreys, the Gentlemen of the family & myself 1787] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 97 went out with the hounds but found nothing, tho much ground was gone over. December 28. — Went out with the hounds to day — took the drag of a fox within my Muddy hole Inclosures, and found him in Stiths field (lately Herberts) run him hard about half an hour — came to a cold drag & then lost him." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 29. At Mount Vernon : " December 29. — Rid (the hollidays being end) to the Plantations at the Ferry, Frenchs, Dogue Run, and Muddy hole." — Washington's Diary. 1788. TUESDAY, JANUARY 1. At Mount Vernon : " I have the pleasure to inform you, that there is the greatest prospect of its [the Constitution] being adopted by the people. It has its opponents, as any system formed by the wisdom of man would undoubtedly have ; but they bear but a small proportion to its friends, and differ among themselves in their objections. Pennsyl- vania, Delaware, and New Jersey have already decided in its favor, the first by a majority of two to one, and the two last unanimously." — Washington to William Gordon. The National Constitution was ratified by the different States in the fol- lowing order: Delaware, December 7, 1787; Pennsylvania, December 12; New Jersey, December 18 ; Georgia, January 2, 1788 ; Connecticut, January 9; Massachusetts, February 6; Maryland, April 28; South Carolina, May 23 ; New Hampshire, June 21 ; Virginia, June 25 ; New York, July 26 ; North Carolina, November 21, 1789; Rhode Island, May 29, 1790, SATURDAY, JANUARY 5. At Mount Vernon : " January 5. — About Eight oclock in the evening we were alarmed, and the house a good deal en"dangered by the soot of one of the Chimneys taking fire & burning furiously, discharging great flakes of fire on the Roof but happily by having aid at hand and proper exertion no damage ensued." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, JANUARY 8. At Mount Vernon : " There are some things in the new form, I will readily acknowledge, which never did, and I am persuaded never will, obtain my cordial approbation ; but I did then conceive, and do now most firmly believe, that in the aggregate it is the best constitution that can be 1788] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 99 obtained at this epoch, and that this, or a dissolution of the Union, awaits our choice, and is the only alternative before us. Thus believing, I had not, nor have I now, any hesita- tion in deciding on which to lean." — Washington to Edmund Randolph. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 9. At Mount Yernon: ^^ January 9. — Col" [Edward] Car- rington came here to Dinner — I continued at home all day." — Washington's Diary. ^^ January 10. — Col" Carrington left this after breakfast (on my horses) for Colchester ; to meet the Stage. " — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5. At Mount Vernon : " Perceiving that the Federalist., under the signature of Publius, is about to be republished, I would thank you to forward to me three or four copies, one of which to be bound, and inform me of the cost."- — Wash- ington to James Madison., at New York. The " Federalist," a collection of essays written in favor of the new Con- stitution by James Madison, John Jay, and Alexander HamiltoQ, under the signature of Publius, was first published in book form at New York in May, 1788, in two 12mo volumes. Only one copy of the book is included in the inventory of the library at Mount Vernon, made after the death of Washington. It was valued at one dollar and a half. Tlieso volumes, handsomely bound, were sold at Philadelphia in November, 1876, for one hundred dollars, and resold February, 1891, in the same city, for nineteen hundred dollars. Under date of August 28, 1788, Washington wrote to Alexander Hamil- ton, " As the perusal of the political papers under the signature of Publius has afibrded me great satisfaction, I shall certainly consider them as claiming a most distinguished place in my library. I have read every performance, which has been printed on one side and the other of the great question lately agitated, so far as I have been able to obtain them ; and, without an un- meaning compliment, I will say, that I have seen no other so well calculated, in my judgment, to produce conviction on an unbiassed mind, as the produc- tion of your triumvirate.' ' 100 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1788 WEDNESDAY, FEBKUARY 13. • At Mount Vernon : " February 13. — The Marq' de Chap- pedelaine (introduced by letters from Gen^ Knox, M' Bing- ham &c*) Capt" Enew (a British Officer) Col* Fitzgerald, M' Hunter, M' Nelson k M' Ingraham came here to Dinner — all of whom returned [to Alexandria] after it except the last." — Washingtoiv' s Diary. ^^ February 14. — On my return from Eiding [to the plantations], I found the Marq' de Chappedelaine and Docter Lee here — both of whom stayed all Night. February 15. — Let out a Fox (which had been taken alive some days ago) and after chasing it an hour lost it. The Marquis de Chappe- delaine & M*^ Ingraham returned to Alexandria after Dinner." — Washing- ton's Diary. FRIDAY, MARCH 14. At Alexandria : " March 14. — Went with M" Washington to Alexandria — ^Visited Capt" Conway Doct' Craik, Col" Sam^ Hanson, M' Murray, & M"" Porter with the last of whom we dined — returned in the Even." — Washington's Diary. " March 17. — "Went up [to Alexandria] (accompanied by Col" Humphreys) to the Election of Delegates to the Convention of this State (for the purpose of considering the New form of Governm' which has been recommended to the United States) ; When Doct' Stuart and Col" [Charles] Simnis were chosen with out opposition —Dined at Col° Fitzgeralds and returned in the Evening. ' ' — Washington'' s Diary. TUESDAY, MARCH 18. At Mount Vernon : '■'■ March 18. — M' Madison on his way from New York to Orange [County] came in before dinner and stayed all Night. March 20. — M'' Madison (in my Car- riage) went after breakfast to Colchester to fall in with the Stage." — Washington' s Diary. SUNDAY, APRIL 6. At Mount Vernon : " April 6. — Sent my two Jackasses to the Election at Marlborough in Maryl* that they might be seen." — Washington's Diary. 1788] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 101 TUESDAY, APRIL 8. At Abingdon : " April 8. — About 10 oclock, in company with Col" Humphreys, M" "Washington, Harriott Washing- ton * and Washington Custis I set of for Abingdon — where we dined and stayed all Night. April 9. — Dined at Abing- don and returned home in the evening — all, except Harriot Washington." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, APRIL 13. At Alexandria : " April 13. — Went to Church at Alex- andria accompanied by Col" Humphreys M' Lear, & Wash- ington Custis — brought Hariot Washington home with us who had been left at Abingdon & came to Church with M"" Stuart." — Washington's Diary. At Alexandria, Washington attended Christ Church (Protestant Episco- pal), erected in 1773, and still standing, the present rector being the Rev. Berryman Green. The Rev. David Griffith, chaplain of the Third Virginia Regiment in the Revolution, and who was a frequent visitor at Mount Vernon, officiated from 1780 until his decease in 1789. Dr. Griffith was succeeded by Bryan Fairfax, brother of George William Fairfax, of " Bel- voir," who served from 1790 to 1792. The Rev. Thomas Davis, toward whose salary Washington made an annual subscription of ten pounds, and who officiated at his funeral, succeeded Mr. Fairfax. The church owns a Bible, presented to it by George Washington Parke Custis, which formerly belonged to General Washington. MONDAY, APRIL 21. At Alexandria : " April 21. — Went to Alexandria to the Election of a Senator for the district and delegates for the County in the General Assembly — when M' Pope was chosen for the first and M' Roger West, and Docf Stuart for the latter — Dined at Doct"' Cr''* and came home in the evening." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, APRIL 28. At Mount Vernon : " All the public attention has been, for many months past, engrossed by a new constitution. It * The youngest child of Samuel Washington, brother of the General, who died in 1781. She married (July 4, 1796) Andrew Parks, of Baltimore. 102 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1788 has met with some opposition from men of abilities, but it has been much more ably advocated. Six States have ac- cepted it. The opinion is, that Maryland and South Caro- lina will soon do the same. One more State only will be wanting to put the government into execution." — Washing- ton to Count de Rochambeau. According to the provisions of Article VII., the ratification of the conven- tions of nine States was requisite for the establishment of the Constitution between the States so ratifying the same. Maryland accepted it on the day the above-quoted letter was written, South Carolina on May 23, and New Hampshire, the ninth State, on June 21. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30. At Mount Yernon : " Influenced by a heartfelt desire to promote the cause of science in general, and the prosperity of the College of William and Mary in particular, I accept the office of chancellor in the same ; and request you will be pleased to give official notice thereof to the learned body, who have thought proper to honor me with the ap- pointment." — Washington to Samuel Griffin. THURSDAY, MAY 15. At Mount Vernon : " May 15. — ^Visited all the Plantations — and the Brick yard — where a small kiln of Brick were forming to Burn." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, MAY 17. At Mount Vernon : " May 17. — M" [Robert] Morris, Miss Morris and her two Sons [Robert and Thomas] (lately ar- rived from Europe) came here about 11 Ocl''." — Washing- ton's Diary. " May 18. — About one oclock, Col" Andrew Lewis of Bottetout came in — dined, & returned to Alexandria in the afternoon. May 20. — Rid in com- pany with M" Morris, M" Washington, the two M"" Morris's & Col" Hum- phreys to my Mill, and returned home thro' French^ «& the Ferry Plantations & by the Brick yard. May 22. — M""' Morris having (by the Stage of yester- day) Received a request from M'' Morris to proceed to Richmond, set ofl" for that place ab' 9 o'clock this Morning, with her two Sons & daughter. — Col" 1788] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 103 Humphreys & myself accompanied her to Colchester, & returned to dinner. ' ' — Washington's Diary. SATUEDAY, MAY 31. Leaves Mount Yernon : '■''May 31. — After an early dinner, in company with Col" Humphreys, I set out for a meeting of the Directors of the Potomack Company to be held at the Falls of Shenandoah on Monday next — reached M' Fairfax's about an hour by Sun, who with his Lady were at Alexandria ; but a cloud which threatened rain, induced us notwithstanding to remain there all night." — Washing- ton'' s Diary. '■'■June 1. — About Sunrise, we set out for the Great Falls, where having met M' Smith (the assistant Manager who resides at the works at the Seneca falls) we examined the Canal, banks and other operations at this place . . . from hence we proceeded by a small cut, & wall About a mile higher up the Kiver to the Seneca falls. ... At this place we breakfasted, and in Com- pany with M' Smith continued our journey — Dined at Leesburgh — & lodged at M'' Jn» Houghs. June 2. — About 5 oclock, after an early breakfast, we set otF, pilotted by M' Hugh [? Hough] thro' by Roads, over the short hills — by the House & Mill of one Belt for the M° of Shenandoah where we arrived partly by a good & partly by a rugged Eoad at half after eight oclock — distance about 12 Miles — Soon after came Gov' Johnson, and about 10 oclock Gov'' Lee & Col" Gilpin arrived — "We then, together crossed the River, walked up to the head of the Canal on the Maryland side & viewed all the Works. . . . After dinner the board set. . . . June 3. — Having ac- complished all the business that came before the board by 10 oclock — the members seperated — and I (Col" Humphreys having returned the day before) went to my Brothers [Charles] about eii^ht miles oif — dined there — and con- tinued on in the Afternoon to Colonel Warner Washington's where I spent the evening. June 4. — About 7 o'clock I left this place, Fairfield, bated at a small Tavern (Bacon fort) 15 Miles distant — dined at the Tavern of one Lacey 14 Miles further and lodged at Newgate 16 Miles lower down." — Washington's Diary. THURSDAY, JUNE 5. At Mount Vernon : " Jwie 5. — After an early breakfast I continued my journey by the upper and lower churches of this Parish [Truro] & passing through my Plantations at Dogue Run, Frenchs, and the Ferry — and the N'ew Barn I 104 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1788 reached home about Noon in about 28 Miles riding where I found Co? Humphreys who had just got in before me from Abingdon." — Washington'' s Diary. MONDAY, JUNE 9. At Mount Vernon : " Jime 9. — Capt° [Joshua] Barney, in the Miniature Ship Federahst^ — as a present from the Mer- chants of Baltimore to me arrived here to Breakfast with her and stayed all day & Night." — Washington's Diary. The citizens of Baltimore celebrated the adoption of the Constitution in Maryland by a procession in which a small boat fifteen feet in length, com- pletely rigged and perfectly equipped as a ship, called " The Federalist," was a conspicuous feature. It was mounted on wheels and drawn by four horses. Captain Barney commanded the ship. After the pageant was over, it was resolved to present the ship to General Washington, in the name of the merchants and ship-owners of Baltimore. It was launched and navigated by Captain Barney down the Chesapeake Bay to the mouth of the Potomac, and thence up the river to Mount Vernon. " The Federalist" was driven from her moorings on the night of July 23 by a high northeast wind, and sunk. TUESDAY, JUNE 10. Leaves Mount Vernon : " June 10. — Between 9 and 10 Oclock set out for Fredericksburgh, accompanied by M" Washington, on a visit to my Mother — Made a visit to M' & M" Thompson in Colchester— & reached Col" [Thomas] Blackburns to dinner, where we lodged — he was from home." — Washington's Diary. " June 11.— About Sun rise we continued our journey — breakfasted at Stafford Court House and intended to have dined at M' Fitzhughs of Chat- ham but he and Lady being from home we proceeded to Fredericksburgh — alighted at my Mothers and sent the Carriage & horses to my Sister Lewis's — where we dined and lodged — As we also did the next day [June 12], the first in company with M' Fitzhugh, Col" Carter & Col" Willis and their Ladies, and Gen^ Weedon— The day following (Friday) we dined in a large Company at Mansfield (M' Man Page's)— on Saturday we visited Gen' Spotswoods dined there & returned in the Evening to My Sisters." — Wash- ington's Diary. 1788] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 105 SUNDAY, JUNE 15. At Fredericksburg : " June 15. — On Sunday we went to Church [St. George's] — the Congregation being alarmed (without cause) and suppos^ the Gallery at the N" End was about to fall, were thrown into the utmost confusion ; and in the precipitate Retreat to the doors many got hurt — Dined in a large Company at Col" Willis's — Where, taking leave of my friends, we re-crossed the River, and spent the evening at Chatham." — Washington's Diary. '■^ June 16. — Before five o'clock we left it [Chatham] — travelled to Dum- fries to breakfast — and reached home to a late dinner and found that Capt" Barney had left it about half an hour before for Alexandria to proceed in the Stage of Tomorrow for Baltimore." — Washington's Diary. "WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18. At Mount Vernon : " We have had a backward spring and summer, with more rainy and cloudy weather than almost ever has been known ; still the appearance of crops in some parts of the country is favorable, as we may gen- erally expect will be the case, from the difference of soil and variety of climate in so extensive a region ; insomuch that I hope, some day or other, we shall become a store- house and granary for the world." — Washington to the Mar- quis de Lafayette. SATURDAY, JUNE 28. At Alexandria : " June 28. — The Inhabitants of Alexan- dria having received the News of the Ratification of the proposed Constitution by this State, and that of New Hampshire — and having determined on public Rejoicings, part of which to be in a dinner, to which this family was envited Col° Humphreys my Nephew G. A. Washington & myself went up to it and returned in the Afternoon." — Washington's Diary. '^June 28. — Thus the citizens of Alexandria, when convened, constituted the first public company in America, which had the pleasure of pouring a 106 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1788 libation to the prosperity of the ten States, that had actually adopted the general government. The day itself is memorable for more reasons than one. It was recollected, that this day is the anniversary of the battles of Sullivan's Island and Monmouth. I have just returned from assisting at the entertainment." — Washington to Charles Cotesworth Pinckney. FRIDAY, JULY 4. At Mount Vernon: '■'• July 4. — In the Afternoon, M' Madison and Doct' Stuart, with a Son of M' Will"" Lee arrived from Richmond. July 5. — I remained at home all day with M' Madison. July 7.— After dinner — M' Madison and the Son of M' Lee went (in my Carriage) to Alexandria in order to proceed on to New York in the Stage tomor- row." — Washington'' s Diary. WEDNESDAY, JULY 9. At Mount Yernon : " July 9. — A Capt° Gregory (a french Gentlem" who served in the American Navy last War & now in the Service of Rob Morris Esq'') came here by Water from Dumfries — Dined, Supped and returned." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, JULY 12. At Mount Vernon : " July 12. — To a late Breakfast M"" & M" Rob* Morris, their two Sons & Daughter and M'' Gouv'' Morris came." — Washington's Diary. '■^ July 15. — About 11 o'clock M" Washington & myself accompanied M' M" Morris &c. as far as Alexandria on their return to Philadelphia — We all dined (in a large Company) at M' Will™ Hunters ; after v?hich M' Morris & his family proceeded and M™ Washington, Col" Humphreys & myself ret*^. " — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, JULY 20. At Mount Vernon : " You will permit me to say, that a greater drama is now acting on this theatre, than has here- tofore been brought on the American stage, or any other in the world. We exhibit at present the novel and astonish- ing spectacle of a whole people deliberating calmly on what 1788] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 107 form of government will be most conducive to their happi- ness ; and deciding with an unexpected degree of unanimity in favor of a system, which they conceive calculated to answer the purpose." — Washington to Sir Edward Newenham. TUESDAY, JULY 29. At Mount Vernon : " July 29. — A M^ Vender Kemp — a Dutch Gent" who had suffered by the troubles in Holland and who was introduced to me by the Marquis de la Fayette came here to Dinner. July 30. — M"" Vender Kemp re- turned." — Washington's Diary. Francis Adrian Vander Kemp, at one time a minister of the Mennonite congregation at Leyden, and who subsequently had a command in the army of Holland, arrived with his family at New York, May 4, 1788. The fol- lowing reference to his visit at Mount Vernon, taken from his manuscript journal, is furnished by the Rev. Roswell Randall Hoes : " I arrived at last at Mount Vernon, where simplicity and order, unadorned grandeur and dignity had taken up their abode. . . . There seemed to me, to skulk some- what of a repulsive coldness — not congenial with my mind, under a courteous demeanor ; and I was infinitely better pleased by the unassuming modest gentleness of the Lady, than with the conscious superiority of her Consort. There was a chosen Society — Col. Humphrey was there. I was charmed with his manners — his conversation ; He knew, how to please — he knew, how to captivate, when he deemed it worth." Mr. Vander Kemp first settled at Esopus (now Kingston) on the Hudson River, and finally at Trenton, New York, originally called Oldenbarneveld. On February 22, 1800, he delivered at Oldenbarneveld a eulogy on Wash- ington, which was published at Amsterdam, the same year, under the title, «' Lofrede op George "Washington, te Oldenbarneveld, den 22 sten van Sprokkelmaand, 1800 in Oneida District, Staat van New York, in de En- gelsche taale uitgesprooken, door Franc. Adr. Vander Kemp." 8vo, pp. 30. MONDAY, AUGUST 4. At Alexandria : " August 4. — Went up to Alexandria to a meeting of the Potomack Company; the business of which was finished about Sun down — but matters which came more properly before the Directors obliged me to stay in Town all Night — Dined at Wises — and lodged at Col" Fitzgeralds. August 5. — The business before the Board of 108 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1788 Directors detaining till near two oclock (I dined at Col° Fitzgeralds) and returned home in the aftern"." — Washing- ton's Diary. TTJESDAT, AUGUST 12. At Warburton, Maryland : " August 12. — The whole family, accompanied by Col" Humphreys and M' [George] Calvert crossed the Eiver — dined with Mr. Geo : Digges — & returned in the Evening." — VTashington'' s Diary. WEDNESDAY. AUGUST 20. At Alexandria : " August 20. — "Went up to Alexandria with ;M" Washington — dined at M' Feudalls and returned in the evening." — Washington'' s Diary. THUKSDAT, AUGUST 28. At Mount Vernon : " On the delicate subject [the Presi- dency] with which you conclude your letter, I can say nothing, because the event alluded to may never happen, and because, in case it should occur, it would be a point of prudence to defer forming one's ultimate and irrevocable decision, so long as new data might be afforded for one to act with the greater wisdom and propriety." — Washington to Alexander Hamilton. From Cblonel Hamilton's Letter. — "I take it for granted, Sir, you have concluded to comply with what will, no doubt, be the general call of your country in relation to the new government. You will permit me to say, that it is indispensable you should lend yourself to its first operations. It is to little purpose to have introduced a system if the weightiest influence is not given to its firm establishment in the outset." — August 13. THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11. At Mount Vernon : " Septernbe^r 11. — M" Plater and her two daughters, and M' George Digges and his Sister came here to dinner and stayed all Xight." — Washington's Diary. ''September 13.— Rid with M" Plater and M" Washington to the Mill and Xew Barn. Col° [Ge^-rge] Plater, M' Hall & a M' Mathews came here 1788] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 109 (from M' Digges's) just after we had dined — stayed all Night. September 14. — Col° Plater, his lady & daughters M"" Digges & his Sister; and Mr. Hall ; and M' Mathews went away after breakfast." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22. At Mount Yernon : " I am glad Congress have at last decided upon an ordinance for carrying the new govern- ment into execution." — Washington to Henry Lee. ^'^ September 13, 1788. — Whereas, the convention assembled in Philadel- phia, pursuant to the resolution of Congress, of the 21st of February, 1787, did, on the 17th of September, in the same year, report to the United States, in Congress assembled, a constitution for the people of the United States ; whereupon, Congress, on the 28th of the same September, did resolve unani- mously, ' That the said report, with the resolutions and letter accompanying the same, be transmitted to the several legislatures, in order to be submitted to a convention of delegates, chosen in each state by the people thereof, in conformity of the resolves of the convention, made and provided in that case;' And whereas the constitution so reported by the convention, and by Congress transmitted to the several legislatures, has been ratified in the manner therein declared to be sufficient for the establishment of the same, and such ratifications, duly authenticated, have been received by Congress, and are filed in the office of the secretary ; therefore, — '■'■Resolved, That the first Wednesday in January next be the day for appointing electors in the several states, which, before the said day shall have ratified the said constitution ; that the first Wednesday in February next, be the day for the electors to assemble in their respective states, and vote for a president ; and that the first Wednesday in March next, be the time, and the present seat of Congress [New York] the place for commencing proceedings under the said constitution." — Journal of Congress. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3. At Abingdon : " October 3. — Went with M" Washington to Abingdon, to visit M" Stuart who was sick. October 4. — At Abingdon still. October 5. — Returned home after breakfast — and reached it about 11 oc^." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21. At Alexandria : " October 21. — Went up to Alexandria to move the Court to appoint Commissioners to settle the Ace" of the Administration of Col° Tho' Colvills Estate to 110 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1788 whose Will I was an Executor. ... I dined at M' Fendalls & came home in the Afternoon.'' — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26. At Pohick Church : " October 26. — Went to Pohick Church and returned home to dinner — found D' Stuart at ^1' Vernon who dined there & returned home afterwards."' — Washington's Diary. " October 31. — Finished pruning the Weeping "Willows & other Trees in the Serpentine walks front of the House and was on the point of Riding when M'' William Fitzhugh Jun'' (of Marj'land) came in, about 10 o'clock — after whom Col° Henry Lee arrived both stay'd dinner and the latter all night. — Remained at home all day." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2. At Mount Vernon : " November 2. — After dinner word was bro' from Alexandria that the Minister of France was arrived there and intended down here to dinner — Accord- ingly, a little before Sun setting, he (the Count de Mous- tiers) * his Sister the Marchioness de Bretan [Brehan] — the Marquis her Son and M' du Fonts f came in." — Washing- ton's Diary. ^^ November 3. — Remained at home all day. — Colo Fitzgerald & Doctr. Craik came down to dinner — & with the copy of an address (which the Citizens of Alexandria meant to present to the Minister) waited on him to know when he would receive it. M'' Lear went to Alexandria to invite some of the Gentlemen and Ladies of the Town to dine with the Count & Marchioness here tomorrow. November 4. — M' Herbert & his Lady, M' Potts & his Lady, M^ Ludwell Lee & his Lady, and Miss Nancy Craik came here to dinner and returned afterward.'' — Washington s Diary. * Eleonor-Fran(jois-Elie Comte de 3Ioustier succeeded the Chevalier de la Luzerne as Minister from France to the United States in 1787. He returned to France in October, 1789. t Victor Marie Du Pont, son of Pierre Samuel Du Pont de Nemours, and elder brother of Eleuthere Irenee Du Pi)nt, who established the well-known powder-mills on the Brandywine, near Wilmington, Delaware, in 1802. 1788] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. HI WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5. At Mount Vernon : " November 5. — The Minister & Ma- dame de Bretan expressing a desire to "Walk to the New Barn — we accordingly did so — and from thence through Frenchs Plantation to My Mill and from thence home com- pleating a tour of at least Seven Miles. Previous to this, in the Morning before breakfast I rid to the Ferry, Frenchs, J) : Run and Muddy hole Plantations." — Washington's Diary. " November 6. — About Nine Oclock the Minister of France, the Mar- chioness de Bretan & their Suit left this on their Return for New York I accompanied them as far as Alexandria & returned home to dinner — the Minister proceeded to George Town after having received an Address from the Citizens of the Corporation." — Washington's Diary . SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8. At Alexandria : " November 8. — Went up to Alexandria, agreeably to a summons, to give testimony in the Suit de- fending between the Estate of M"" Custis and M' Rob* Alex- ander — Returned by the New Barn which had got about half the Rafters up." — Washington's Diary. " November 10. — The New Barn would nearly \i not quite have the Rafters up to-day." — Washingto7i' s Diary. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11. At Mount Vernon : " November 11. — All my People, ex- cept those in the Neck were on the public Roads Repairing of them to day — attended, in some measure, this business myself — M' Lund Washington — Overseer of the Roads dined here to day. November 12. — The force of yesterday was employed on the Road to day. ... I rid to the Repairs of the Road and to my New Barn — the Rafters of which were all raised about Noon — M'' Lund Washington dined here again to day." — Washington's Diary. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14. At Mount Vernon : ^^ November 14. — Docf [George] Logan and Lady of Phila* and a Mons' of Lyons in France 112 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1788 came here to dinner and went away afterwards." — Wash- ington's Diary. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15. At Mount Vernon : " November 15. — "Went with my Com- pass and finished the line of Stakes from Dogue Run (at the Tumbling dam) to Hunting C*'; for a Road on the border of my land adjoining to Col° Masons — also con- nected this with the Road leading from the Gum Spring to Alexandria and from the former run the courses and meas- ured the distances to my Mill and from the Mill to the Mansion House. " On my Return home in the Evening I found M' War- ville and a M' de Saint Tries here — brought down by M' Porter who returned again. November 16. — Mons" War- ville and Saint Tres returned to Alexandria in my Chariot. November 17. — It was this day and not yesterday that M' Warville and M' Staint trees returned to Alexandria." — Washington's Diary. " I hastened to arrive at Mount Vernon, the seat of Greneral Washington, ten miles helow Alexandria on the same river. On this rout you traverse a considerable wood, and after having passed over two hills, you discover a country house of an elegant and majestic simplicity. It is preceded by grass plats ; on one side of the avenue are the stables, on the other a green-house, and houses for a number of negro mechanics. In a spacious back yard are turkies, geese, and other poultry. This house overlooks the Potowmack, enjoys an extensive prospect, has a vast and elevated portico on the front next the river, and a convenient distribution of the apartments within. The General came home in the evening, fatigued with having been to lay out a new road in some part of his plantations. You have often heard him compared to Cincinnatus : the comparison is doubtless just. This celebrated General is nothing more at present than a good farmer, constantly occupied in the care of his farm and the improvement of cultivation. He has lately built a barn, one hundred feet in length and considerably more in breadth, destined to receive the productions of his farm, and to shelter his cattle, horses, asses, and mules. It is built on a plan sent him by that fomous English farmer Arthur Young. But the General has much improved the plan. This building is in brick, it cost but three hundred pounds ; I am. 1788] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 113 sure in France it would have cost three thousand * He planted this year eleven hundred bushels of potatoes. All this is new in Virginia, where they know not the use of barns, and where they lay up no provisions for their cattle. His three hundred negroes are distributed in different log houses, in different parts of his plantation, which in this neighbourhood consists of ten thousand acres. Colonel Humphreys, that poet of whom I have spoken, assured me that the General possesses, in different parts of tho country, more than two hundred thousand acres. " Everything has an air of simplicity in his house; his table is good, but not ostentatious ; and no deviation is seen from regularity and domestic ceconomy. Mrs. Washington superintends the whole, and joins to the qualities of an excellent house-wife, the simple dignity which ought to characterize a woman, whose husband has acted the greatest part on the theatre of human affairs ; while she possesses that amenity, and manifests that attention to strangers, which render hospitality so charming. The same virtues are conspicuous in her interesting niece ; but unhappily she appears not to enjoy good health. " M. de Chastellux has mingled too much of the brilliant in his portrait of General Washington. His eye bespeaks great goodness of heart, manly sense marks all his answers, and he sometimes animates in conversation, but he has no characteristic features; which renders it difficult to seize him. He announces a profound discretion, and a great difBdence in himself; but at the same time, an unshaken firmness of character, when once he has made his decision. His modesty is astonishing to a Frenchman ; he speaks of the American war, and of his victories, as of things in which he had no direc- tion." — J. P. Brissot de Warville, Nouveau Voyage dans les Etats Unis de VAmerique Septentrionale, fait en 1788, Paris, 1791. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20. At Alexandria : " November 20. — Went to Alexandria with M" Washington — Dined with Col° Henry Lee & Lady at M' Fendalls and returned home in the Evening — Found Docf La Moyeur here." — Washington'' s Diary. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2. At Mount Vernon : " The expensive manner in which I live (contrary to my wishes, but really unavoidable), the bad * " The building of a brick barn has occupied much of my attention this summer. It is constructed according to the plan you had the goodness to send me ; but with some additions. It is now, I believe, the largest and most convenient one in this country." — Washington to Arthur Young, December 4, 1788. 8 114 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1788 years of late, and my consequent short crops, have occasioned me to run in debt, and to feel more sensibly the want of money than I have ever done at any period of my whole life, and obliges me to look forward to every source from whence I have a right to expect relief. Under these circum- stances I must ask you what prospect I have, and in what time (after it becomes due) I may expect to receive the present years annuity." — Washington to David Stuart. THUKSDAY, DECEMBEK 4. At Mount Vernon : " The more I am acquainted with agricultural affairs, the better I am pleased with them ; inso- much, that I can no where find so great satisfaction as in those innocent and useful pursuits. In indulging these feel- ings, I am led to reflect how much more delightful to an undebauched mind is the task of making improvements on the earth, than all the vain glory which can be acquired from ravaging it, by the most uninterrupted career of con- quests." — Washington to Arthur Young. " I have a prospect of introducing into this country a very excellent race of animals, by means of the liberality of the King of Spain. One of the jacks which he was pleased to present to me (the other perished at sea) is about 15 hands high, his body and limbs very large in proportion to his height; and the mules which I have had from him, appear to be extremely well formed for service. I have likewise a jack and two jennetts from Malta, of a very good size, which the Marquis de la Fayette sent to me.* The Spanish jack seems calculated to breed for heavy slow draught ; and the others for the saddle, or lighter carriages. From these, altogether, I hope to secure a race of extraordinary goodness, which will stock the country." — Idem. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19. At Mount Vernon : " December 19. — Rid to the Planta- tions at the Ferry and Prenchs — and to Dogue Run & * The jack presented by Lafayette was called the Knight of Malta ; this jack was a superb animal, black in color, with the form of a stag and the ferocity of a tiger. 1788] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 115 Muddy hole. . . . M' Madison came here to dinner. December 20. — Remained at home with M'' Madison. De- cember 25. — Sent M"" Madison after breakfast as far as Col- chester in my Carriage." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, DECEMBEK 29. At Mount Vernon : " December 29. — Rid to the Planta- tions at the Ferry and Frenchs — and to Dogue Run & Muddy hole. December 30. — Rid into the Neck — and to Muddy hole Plantations. December 31. — Rid to the Ferry & Frenchs — and to Dogue Run and Muddy hole Plan"." — Washington's Diary. 1789. THURSDAY, JANUARY 1. At Mount Vernon : " January 1. — Went out after break- fast to lay of or rather measure an old field which is intended to be added to Muddy hole Plantation — after which marked out a line for the New Road across from the Tu[m]bling Dam to little Hunting Creek to begin post and Rail fence on." — Washington's Diary. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7. At Alexandria : " January 7. — "Went up to the Election of an Elector (for this district) of President & Vice Presi- dent when the Candidates polled for being Docf Stuart and Col° Blackburn the first rec"^ 216 votes from the Freeholders of this County — and the second 16 Votes. — Dined with a large company on Venisen at Pages Tav" and came home in the evening." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, JANUARY 18. At Mount Vernon : " The first wish of my soul is to spend the evening of my days as a private citizen on my farm ; but, if circumstances, which are not yet sufficiently unfolded to form the judgment or the opinion of my friends, will not allow me this last boon of temporal happiness, and I should once more be led into the walks of public life, it is my fixed determination to enter there, not only unfettered by promises, but even unchargeable with creating or feed- ing the expectation of any man living for my assistance to office." — Washington to Samuel Hanson. 116 1789] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 117 SATUKDAY, JANUAKY 24. At Mount Vernon : " January 24. — Went into the Neck — measured some fields there — and laid off 8 acres for Tobacco." — Washington's Diary. «' January 25.— Colonels Fitzgerald, Lee & Gilpin dined here, and returned to Alexandria in the evening. January 28. — Major Washington set out for Berkley to see his Father [Charles Washington] who had informed him of the low state of health in which he was." — Washington's Diary. THURSDAY, JANUARY 29. At Mount Vernon : " Nothing but harmony, honesty, industry, and frugality are necessary to make us a great and happy people. Happily the present posture of affairs, and the prevailing disposition of my countrymen, promise to cooperate in establishing those four great and essential pillars of public felicity." — Washington to the Marquis de Lafayette. MONDAY, FEBRUARY 2. At Alexandria : " February 2. — I went up to the Election of a Representative to Congress for this district. Voted for Rich^ Bland Lee Esq' dined at Colonel Hooes & returned home in the afternoon. " On my way home met M' George Calvert on his way to Abingdon with the Hounds I had lent him — viz. Vulcan & Venus (From France) — Ragman & two other dogs (From England) — Dutchess & Doxey (From Philadelp*) — Tryal, Jupiter & Countess (Descended from the French Hounds)," — Washington's Diary. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13. At Mount Vernon : " I am going on Monday next to visit the works as far as the Seneca Falls." — Washington to Thomas Jefferson. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4. At Mount Vernon : " Never till within these two years have I ever experienced the want of money. Short crops, 118 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1789 and other causes not entirely within my control, make me feel it now very sensibly. . . . Under this statement I am inclined to do what I never expected to be driven to — that is, to borrow money on interest. Five hundred pounds would enable me to discharge what I owe in Alexandria, etc. ; and to leave the state (if it shall not be in my power to remain at home in retirement) without dohig this would be exceedingly disagreeable to me. Having thus fully and candidly explained myself, permit me to ask if it is in your power to supply me with the above, or a smaller sum." — Washington to Captain Richard Conway. " March 6. — I am much obliged by your assurance of monej'. M"' Lear waits upon you for it, and carries a bond, drawn in the manner you re- quested. . . . Upon collecting my accounts by M' Lear, the other day, it was found that though five hundred pounds will enable me to discharge them, yet it is incompetent to this and the other purpose, the expenses of my journey to New York, if I go thither. If, therefore, you could add another hundred pounds to the former sum, it would be very acceptable. M"' Lear is provided with a bond for this sum also." — Washington to Captain Richard Conway. SATUKDAY, MARCH 7. At Fredericksburg : " March 12, — On Saturday even- ing last [March 7], His Excellency General "Washington arrived in town from Mount Vernon, and early on Monday morning he set out on his return. The object of his Excellency's visit w^as probably to take leave of his aged mother., sister, and friends, previous to his departure for the new Congress, over the councils of which, the united voice of America has called him to preside." — Fredericks- burg paper. This was the last visit paid by Washington to his mother. She died on the 25th day of August following, at the age of eighty-two. The following entry in his cash-book refers to this visit: " March 11. — By my expenses on a visit to my motlier at Fredericksburg £1.8.0. By M" Mary Washington advanced her 6 Guineas." 1789] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 119 MONDAY, MAKCH 9. At Mount Vernon : " I will therefore declare to you, that, if it should be my inevitable fate to administer the govern- ment, (for Heaven knows, that no event can be less desired by me, and that no earthly consideration short of so generall a call, together with a desire to reconcile contending parties as far as in me lies, could again bring me into public life,) I will go to the chair under no preengagement of any kind or nature whatsoever. But, when in it, I will, to the best of my judgment, discharge the duties of the office with that impartiality and zeal for the public good, which ought never to suffer connexions of blood or friendship to inter- mingle so as to have the least sway on decisions of a public nature." — Washington to Benjamin Harrison, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25. At Mount Vernon : " With very great sensibility I have received the honor of your letter dated the 10th instant, and consider the kind and obliging invitation to your house, until suitable accommodations can be provided for the President, as a testimony of your friendship and polite- ness, of which I shall ever retain a grateful sense. But if it should be my lot (for Heaven knows it is not my wish) to appear again in a public station, I shall make it a point to take hired lodo;ino:s or rooms in a tavern until some house can be provided." — Washington to George Clintoii, at New York. MONDAY, MARCH 30. At Mount Vernon : " I have been favored with your letter of the 19th, by which it appears that a quorum of Congress was hardly to be expected before the beginning of the next week. As this delay must be very irksome to the attend- ing members, and every day's continuance of it, before the government is in operation, will be more sensibly felt, I am resolved, that none shall proceed from me that can well 120 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1789 be avoided, after notice of the election is announced, and therefore I take the liberty of requesting the favor of you to engage lodgings for me previous to my arrival. " M'' Lear, who has lived with me three years as a private secretary, will accompany or precede me in the stage ; and Colonel Humphreys I presume will be of my party. On the subject of lodgings, I will frankly declare to you, that I mean to go into none but hired ones." — Washington to James Madison, at New York. The day appointed for the assembling of Congress was the 4th of March, but so tardily did the members come together that a quorum of both Houses was not formed till the 6th of April. On that day, in the presence of the Senate and House of Kepresentatives, the votes were opened and counted, when Washington, having received every vote of the sixty-nine cast by the ten States * which took part in the election, was declared President of the United States. John Adams, having received the second highest number of votes (thirty-four), was declared to be Vice-President. He was installed in the chair of the Senate on April 21. WEDNESDAY, APKIL 1. At Mount Vernon : " In confidence I tell you, (with the world it would obtain little credit) that my movements to the chair of government will be accompanied by feelings not unlike those of a culprit, who is going to the place of his execution ; so unwilling am I, in the evening of a life nearly consumed in public cares, to quit a peaceful abode for an ocean of difficulties, without that competency of political skill, abilities, and inclination, which are necessary to manage the helm. I am sensible that I am embarking the voice of the people, and a good name of my own, on this voyage ; but what returns will be made for them. Heaven alone can foretell. Integrity and firmness are all I can promise." — Washington to General Knox. *The three States not voting were New York, North Carolina, and Khode Island, New York losing its vote in consequence of a disagreement between the two branches of the Legislature, and North Carolina and Rhode Island not having as yet ratified the Constitution. 1789] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 121 ^' Ap7-il 10. — A combination of circumstances and events seems to have rendered my embarking again on the ocean of public atfairs inevitable. How opposite this is to my own desires and inclinations, I need not say. Those who know me are, I trust, convinced of it. For the rectitude of my intentions I appeal to the great Searcher of hearts ; and if I have any knowl- edge of myself I can declare, that no prospects however flattering, no per- sonal advantage however great, no desire of fame however easily it might be acquired, could induce me to quit the private walks of life at my age and in my situation ; but if, by any exertion or services of mine, my country can be benefited, I shall feel more amply compensated for the sacrifices which I make, than I possibly can be by any other means." — Washington to Hector St. -John de Crevecoeur. TUESDAY, APRIL 14. At Mount Vernon : " I had the honor to receive your Official communication by the hand of M' Secretary Thompson, about one o'clock this day. Having concluded to obey the important & flattering call of my Country, and having been impressed with an idea of the expediency of my being with Congress at as early a period as possible ; I propose to commence my journey on Thursday morning which will be the day after to morrow." — Washington to Johyi Langdon. Mr. Langdon was a Senator from New Hampshire, and when the Senate was first organized, on the 6th of April, he was chosen President of that body pro tempore. In this capacity it devolved upon him to oflBcially notify General Washington of his having been elected President of the United States. Charles Thomson, who had been since 1774 the sole Secretary of Congress, was selected to bear this ofiBcial information to Mount Vernon. He left New York on Tuesday morning, April 7, on horseback. The letter was as follows: ^^ New Fork, April 6, 1789. — I have the honor to transmit to your Excellency the information of your unanimous election to the office of President of the United States of America. Sufi'er me, sir, to indulge the hope that so auspicious a mark of public confidence will meet with your approbation, and be considered as a pledge of the affection and support you are to expect from a free and enlightened people." THURSDAY, APRIL 16. Leaves Mount Vernon : " April 16. — About ten o'clock I bade adieu to Mount Vernon, to private life, and to domestic felicity, and with a mind oppressed with more 122 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1789 anxious and painful sensations than I have words to express, set out for N^ew York in company with M'' Thomson and Col" Humphreys, with the best disposition to render service to my country in obedience to its calls, but with less hope of answering its expectations." — Washington's Diary. ^^ Alexandria, April 23. — Last Thursday [April 16], the great and illus- trious Citizen of America, George Washingtok, Esq ; passed through this town on his way to New- York accompanied by Mr. Charles Thomson. He was met some miles out of town by a numerous escort of his friends and neighbours, whose attachment to him was such, that not satisfied with attend- ing him to the verge of their own state, they crossed over in numerous crouds to George-Town, where they surrendered him over to the arms of an affectionate sister state. In compliance with their wishes, he partook with them of an early dinner prepared at Mr. Wise's tavern. At his departure, an affectionate address was presented to him by the citizens, to which he made a reply, expressive of his feelings on the occasion."* — Pennsylvania Packet, April 30. " George-Town, April 23. — Last Thursday, passed through this town, on his way to New-York, the Most Illustrious the President of the United States of America, with Charles Thomson, Esq. ; Secretary to Congress. His Excellency arrived at about 2 o'clock, on the banks of the Potowmack, escorted by a respectable corps of gentlemen from Alexandria, where the George-Town ferry boats, properly equipped, received his Excellency and suite, and safely landed them, under the acclamations of a large crowd of their grateful fellow-citizens — who beheld their EABIUS in the evening of his days, bid adieu to the peaceful retreat of Mount Vernon, in order to save his country once more, from confusion and anarchy. From this place his Excellency was escorted by a corps of gentlemen, commanded by Col. "William Deakins, jun. to Mr. Spurrier's Tavern, where the escort from Baltimore take charge of him." — Pennsylvania Packet, May 5. FRIDAY, APRIL 17. At Baltimore : " Baltimore., April 21. — The President of the United States arrived in this place on his way to Con- gress, on Friday afternoon, the 17th instant, with Charles Thomson, Esc^; and Colonel Humphries. This great man was met some miles from Town, by a large body of respect- able citizens on horseback, and conducted, under a dis- * For this admirable address and reply, see Sparks, vol. xii. p. 137, etc. 1789] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 123 charge of cannon, to Mr. Grant's tavern [the "Fountain Inn"] through crowds of admiring spectators. " At six o'clock, a committee chosen in consequence of a late notification, to adjust the preliminaries for his recep- tion, waited upon him with an address which he answered. A great number of the citizens were presented to him, and very graciously received. Having arrived too late for a public dinner, he accepted an invitation to supper, from which he retired a little after ten o'clock." — Pemisylvania Packet, April 28. ^'■Baltimore, April 21. — On Saturday morning [April 18] he was in his carriage at half past five o'clock when he left town, under a discharge of cannon, and attended as on his entrance, by a body of the citizens on horse- back. These gentlemen accompanied him seven miles, when alighting from his carriage, he would not permit them to proceed any further ; but took leave of them, after thanking them in an affectionate and obliging manner for their politeness. We shall only add on this occasion, that those who had often seen him before, and those who never had, were equally anxious to see him. Such is the rare impression excited by his uncommon character and virtues. " — Idem. SUNDAY, APRIL 19. At Wilmington, Delaware : " Wilmington, April 25. — On Sunday last [April 19] his Excellency the President-General arrived in this borough, whither he was accompanied by a number of gentlemen of this State, who also attended him next morning to the Pennsylvania line, on his way to New- York. Before his departure, the corporation of this borough, attended by many of the inhabitants, waited upon his Excellency, with an address of congratulation, which was most graciously received." — Pennsylvania Packet, April 28. MONDAY, APRIL 20. At Philadelphia: '' Ajml 22.— Monday last [April 20] His Excellency George Washington, Esq; the President ELECT OF THE United States, arrived in this city, about one o'clock, accompanied by the President of the State 124 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1789 [Thomas Mifflin], Governor St. Clair, the Speaker of the Assembly [Richard Peters], the Chief Justice [Thomas McKean], the Honorable Mr. Read, the Attorney-General [William Bradford, Jr.], and Secretary Thomson, the two city troops of horse, the county troop, a detachment of artillery, a body of light infantry, and a numerous con- course of citizens on horseback and foot. " His Excellency rode in front of the procession, on horseback. The number of spectators who filled the doors, windows and streets, which he passed, was greater than on any other occasion we ever remember. " The joy of the whole city upon this august spectacle cannot easily be described. Every countenance seemed to say, Long, long live George Washington, THE FATHER OF THE People! At three o'clock His Excellency sat down to an elegant Entertainment of 250 covers, at the City Tavern, prepared for him by the citizens of Philadel- phia. A band of music played during the entertainment, and a discharge of artillery took place at every toast, among which was The State of Virginia, The ship Alliance, and a Spanish merchant ship, were handsomely decorated with colours of different nations." — Pennsylvania Gazette. In the approach to the city the Schuylkill was crossed at Gray's Ferry bridge, which "was highly decorated with laurel and other evergreens, by Mr. Gray himself, the ingenious Mr. [Charles Willson] Peale and others, and in such a stile, as to display uncommon taste in these gentlemen. — At each end there were erected magnificent arches, composed of laurel, emblem- atic of the ancient triumphal arches used by the Komans, and on each side of the bridge a laurel shrubbery, which seemed to challenge even Nature herself for simplicity, ease and elegance. And as our beloved Washington passed the bridge, a lad, beautifully ornamented with sprigs of laurel, assisted by certain machinery, let drop, above the Hero's head, unperceived by him, a civic crown of laurel." "Washington spent Monday night at the house of Robert Morris, on Market Street, and on the following morning (April 21) left Philadelphia on his journey to New York. Previous to his departure he received and answered addresses from the President and Supiemo Executive Council; from the mayor, aldermen, and Common Council of the city ; from the 1789] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 125 judges of the Supreme Court of the State ; from the trustees and faculty of the University of the State of Pennsylvania ; and from the State Society of the Cincinnati. TUESDAY, APKIL 21. At Trenton, New Jersey : " Trenton, April 21. — This day we were honored with the presence of his Excellency the President of the United States of America on his way to New York. A troop of horse, commanded by Capt. Carle, and a company of infantry, commanded by Capt Halon, compleatly equipped, and in full uniform, with a large con- course of the gentlemen and inhabitants of the town and neighbourhood, lined the Jersey bank of the Delaware, to hail the General's arrival. As soon as he set foot on shore, he was welcomed with three huzzas, which made the shores re-echo the chearful sounds. After being saluted by the horse and infantry, he was escorted to town, in the following order : A detachment of the horse. — The Light Infantry. — His Excellency, on horseback, attended by Charles Thomson, Esq; and Col. Humphreys. — The troop of horse. — The gentlemen of the town and neighbourhood on horseback." — Pennsylvania Packet, May 1. •' When the procession arrived at the hridge south of the town, they were presented with a scene to which no description can do justice. " As Trenton had been rendered twice memorable during the war, once by the capture of the Hessians, and again by the repulse of the whole British army, in their attempt to cross the bridge over the Assanpinck Creek, the evening before the battle of Princeton — a plan was formed by a number of ladies, and carried into execution, solely under their direction, to testify to the General, by the celebration of those eventful actions, the grateful sense they retained of the safety and protection afforded by him to the daughters of New-Jersey. For this purpose, a triumphal arch was raised on the bridge, about 20 feet wide, supported by 13 columns — the height of the arch to the centre was equal to the width. Each column was intwined with wreaths of evergreen. The arch, which extended about twelve feet along the bridge, was covered with laurel, and decorated on the inside with laurel, running- vines, and a variety of evergreens. On the front of the arch the following motto was inscribed in large gilt letters — ' The Defender of the mothers will also protect the daughters.'' — The upper and lower edges of this inscription were ornamented with wreaths of evergreen and artificial flowers of all kinds, 126 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1789 made by the ladies for the occasion, beautifully interspersed. On the centre of the arch, above the inscription, was a dome, or cupola, of artificial flowers and evergreens, encircling the dates of the glorious events which the whole was designed to celebrate, inscribed in large gilt letters. — The summit of the dome displayed a large sun-flower, which, always pointing to the sun, was designed to express this sentiment, or motto — ' To you alo7ie' — as emblematic of the affections and hopes of the PEOPLE being directed to him, in the united suff'rage of the millions of America. " A numerous trai/i of ladies, leading their daughters, were assembled at the arch, thus to thank their Defender and Protector. As the General passed under the arch, he was addressed in the following SONATA, com- posed [by Major Ilichard Howell*] and set to music for the occasion, by a number of young ladies dressed in white, decked with wreaths and chaplets of flowers, and holding in their hands baskets filled with flowers : " ' WELCOME, mighty Chief 1 once more, Welcome to this grateful shore : Now no mercenary foe Aims again the fatal blow — Aims at thee the fatal blow. " ' Virgins fair, and Matrons grave, Those thy conquering arms did save. Build for thee triumphal bowers. Strew, ye fair, his way with flowers — Strew your Hero's way with flowers.' " As they sung these lines, they strewed the flowers before the General. "When his Excellency came opposite the little female band, he honored the ladies by stopping until the Sonata was finished. The scene was truly grand — universal silence prevailed — Nothing was to be heard but the sweet notes of the songsters — and the mingled sentiments which crouded into the mind in the moments of solemn stillness during the song, bathed many cheeks with tears. The General most politely thanked the ladies for their attention, and the procession moved on to his lodgings." f — Idem. * Governor of New Jersey, 1794-1801. f " At Trenton Washington dined at Samuel Henry's City Tavern, on the southwest corner of Second and Warren Streets, with the principal citizens of the place and held a reception in the parlors of the inn. Late in the afternoon he took carriage for Princeton, the Rev. [James F.] Armstrong accompanying him that far on his journey. It is generally understood that they spent that night at the residence of the President of the College, the Rev. Dr. John Witherspoon. " — William S. Stryker, Washington's Re- ception by the People oj New Jersey in 1789. 1789] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 127 WEDNESDAY, APKIL 22. At New Brunswick, ISTew Jersey : " New Brunsivick, April 28. — On Wednesday last [April 22], his Excellency George "Washington, Esquire, President of the United States of America, passed through this city on his way to the seat of the Federal Government, accompanied by his Excellency [William Livingston] the Governor of the State, Charles Thomson, Esq ; Col. Humphreys, and several other gen- tlemen of distinction. His Excellency was escorted into this city by the Common Council, and other respectable citizens on horseback, and by the companies of artillery and light-infantry under the command of Captains Doug- las and Guest. The near approach of his Excellency was announced by the tiring of a federal salute from the ar- tillery, and by the ringing of bells." — Pennsylvania Packet, May 2. "The Common Council and other citizens on horseback met his Excel- lency some miles from the town, and after having congratulated him upon the happy occasion of their meeting, they conducted him into the citj^, pre- ceded by the companies of artillery and light-infantry, and a detachment of horse from Capt. Carle's cavalry, accompanied with a band of music. At the entrance of the city, the troops formed a line, and saluted his Excellency as he passed them : the street and houses were crowded with many joyful spectators ; among whom were a great number of the fair daughters of Columbia, collected on the occasion with a generous desire of expressing their respect and gratitude to this illustrious friend to mankind, and the great protector of the rights of their country. Joy sparkled in every eye, and perfect satisfaction was demonstrated by the countenance and behaviour of all degrees and conditions of the people, when they beheld the object of their esteem and confidence again coming into public life, from the peaceful retirement of domestic happiness, to preserve by his wisdom, those invaluable privileges which he had defended by his valour. " The inhabitants, by a committee appointed for the purpose, together with the Reverend Clergy, waited on his Excellency at the house of Major Thomas Egbert, and congratulated him upon his appointment to the office of President of the United States of America, expressed the great happiness they felt on that important occasion, and at the same time assured him that their sincere prayer should be, that he might enjoy in the administration of his office, that felicity which is the just reward of the most exalted and dis- tinguished merit. 128 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1789 " To which his Excellency replied with a politeness particular to himself, and in a manner becoming the dignity of his character. " About five o'clock in the afternoon his Excellency, accompanied by the Governor of the state, by many citizens of New-Brunswick, and by several gentlemen from the county of Essex, and amidst the joyful acclamations of a large concourse of happy people crossed the river on his way to New- York. "His Excellency and suite lodged at Woodbridge, and in the morning set out for New- York, and was met in Rahway by the light dragoons from Elizabeth-Town and Newark, and at Elizabeth-Town by the infantry, gren- adiers, and artillery, who saluted him as he passed by." — Idem. " Elizabeth-Town, April 29. — Thursday last [April 23], between eight and nine o'clock in the morning. His Excellency General Washington made his entrance into this town, amidst festive throngs of numerous spectators. " He was met near Bridgetown, by a number of citizens, accompanied by the cavalry, commanded by captains Meeker, Condict, and Wade, which when united with captain Herd's troop, that composed the escort of his Excellency from Brunswick, made a most martial and splendid appearance. — On his Excellency's approaching the town, his arrival was announced by a federal salute from the cannon, and the illustrious hero was received by the grenadiers and light troops under arms. He alighted at the [public] house of Mr. [Samuel] Smith, where he received the congratulations of the town and the committee from New-York. He partook of a repast provided by the gentlemen of the town ; and, after that waited on the committee of Congress at Mr. [Elias] Boudinott's, from whence he proceeded, attended by a vast concourse of people, and the cavalry (in order) to the Point, and after reviewing the troops, who were by this time joined by some respectable companies from Newark and its environs, he was conducted on board of the barge prepared for his reception, the beauty of which met his highest appro- bation ; he was rowed across the bay by thirteen skilful pilots. Thomas Randall, Esq; acted as cockswain." — Pennsylvania Packet, May 5. THURSDAY, APRIL 23. At New York : " New York, April 24. — Yesterday, about two o'clock, arrived in this city. His Excellency GEORGE WASHINGTON, Esquire, President of the United States of America. A Committee of the honorable the Congress,* a deputation of the State Officers, consisting of his Honor the Chancellor [Robert R. Livingston] and the Adjutant- General [Nicholas Fish], accompanied by a deputation from * John Langdon, Charles Carroll, and William Samuel Johnson of the Senate, Elias Bt)udinot, Theodoric Bland, Thomas Tudor Tucker, Egbert Benson, and John Lawrence of the House. 1789] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 129 the Corporation of this city, consisting of the Recorder [Richard Varick], received His Excellency the President at Elizabethtown, in the elegant barge which was previously constructed for the purpose, and rowed by thirteen pilots, under the superintendence of Captain Randall." — Pennsyl- vania Gazeite, April 29. " On the President's passing the battery, a federal salute was fired, and repeated upon his landing * near the City Coffee-House, where he was re- ceived by his Excellency the Governor [George Clinton], the principal offi- cers of the state, his honor the Mayor [James Duane], and the principal officers of the Corporation ; and thence accompanied to the house prepared for his reception, f in the following order, Viz : Troop of Horse. — Artillery and residue of the Legion, under arms. — The military officers in uniform, who were off duty. — The President's Guard, composed of the Grenadiers of the first regiment. — The President, the Governor, and their suites. — The principal officers of the state. — The Mayor and Corporation. — The Clergy. — The Citizens. " The bells were rung, and colours were displayed from the fort, from the vessels in the harbour, and from the several buildings in the city ; the streets were crowded with citizens, and the windows decorated with the fair daughters of Columbia. " In the evening J the city was elegantly illuminated. The joy and satis- faction universally expressed on the safe arrival of this Illustrious Personage clearly evince, that patriotism and magnanimity are still held in respect and veneration among our citizens — His Excellency having, in a distinguished manner, displayed those eminent virtues, in a series of important and faith- ful services, rendered his country, in the most gloomy and distressing periods." — Idem. * At Murray's wharf, foot of Wall Street. •j- The house prepared for the President, known as the Franklin House, the former residence of Walter Franklin, was at No. 3 Cherry Street. It was owned by Samuel Osgood, one of the Treasury Commissioners, wh.> married the widow of Mr. Franklin, and was until 1856, when the build- ing was taken down, at the junction of Cherry and Pearl Streets, on Franklin Square. Washington retained this house until February 23, 1790, when he removed to the Macomb House, on Broadway near Bowling Green. X On the evening of April 23 Washington dined with a distinguished company at Governor Clinton's house, Queen (now Pearl) Street, opposite Cedar This house was occupied by Washington as head-quarters from April 13 to May 21, 1776. 9 130 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1789 FRIDAY, APRIL 24. At New York : " New York, April 30.— Friday [April 24] the Hon. the Senate and House of Representatives waited on his Excellency the President, to congratulate him on his safe arrival at the seat of government." — Pennsylvania Packet, May 5. '■^ New York, April 27. — On Saturday [April 25] the Chamber of Com- merce met at the Coffee-House, about half after eleven o'clock, in conse- quence of a special call from the President. From the Coffee-house they proceeded in form to the house of his Excellency the President of the United States, headed by John Broome, Theophylact Beach and John Murray, Es- quires. On their arrival at the President's they were conducted into the audience-room, and upon his Excellency's entering, Mr. Broome, the Presi- dent of the Chamber, addressed him, and to which he made a reply. " After his Excellency's reply, he was introduced by the President of the Chamber to every member present. ' ' — Pennsylvania Packet, April 30. TUESDAY, APRIL 28. At New York : " April 28. — This day I ought to note with some extraordinary mark. I had dressed and was about to set out, when General Washington, the great- est man in the world, paid me a visit. I met him at the foot of the stairs. Mr. [Henry] "Wynkoop just came in. We asked him to take a seat. He excused himself on account of the number of his visits. We accompanied him to the door. He made us complaisant bows — one before he mounted and the other as he went away on horse- back." — Journal of William Maclay, Senator from Penn- sylvania. "William Maclay, of Pennsylvania, was elected September 30, 1788, with Robert Morris, to the United States Senate, and drew the short term, which expired on March 3, 1791. In the Senate, Mr. Maclay advanced democratic principles ami led the opposition to "Washington, objecting to his presence in the Senate during the transaction of business, assailing the policy of the administration before him, and reprobating the state and ceremony that were observed in his intercourse with Congress. His journal, from which we quote, was published at New York in 1890. 1789] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 131 THURSDAY, APRIL 30. At New York : " New York, May 1. — Yesterday [April 30] took place according to the resolution of the two houses of Congress, the ceremony of the introduction of his Excel- lency George Washington, to the Presidency of the United States." — Pennsylvania Packet, May 4. "At nine o'clock A.M. the clergy of different denominations assembled their congregations in their respective places of worship, and offered up prayers for the safety of the president. " About twelve o'clock the procession moved from the house of the presi- dent in Cherry-Street, through Dock-Street, and Broad-Street, to Federal Hall [at "Wall and Nassau Streets] ; in the following order. Colonel [Mor- gan] Lewis supported by two officers, Capt. Stakes, with the troop of Horse, Artillery, Major Van Home, Grenadiers, under Captain Harsin, German Grenadiers, under Capt. Scriba, Major Bicker, The Infantrj^ of the Brigade, Major Chrystie, Sheriff [Robert Boyd] The Committee of the Senate,* The President and suite. The Committee of the Representatives,! The Honor- able Mr. Jay, General Knox, Chancellor Livingston, and several other gen- tlemen of distinction. Then followed a multitude of citizens. " When they came within a short distance of the Hall, the troops formed a line on both sides of the way, and his Excellency passing through the ranks, was conducted into the building, and in the Senate Chamber intro- duced to both houses of Congress — immediately afterwards, accompanied by the two houses, he went into the gallery fronting Broad-Street, where, in the presence of an immense concourse of citizens, he took the oath pre- scribed by the constitution, which was administered to him by the Hon. R. R. Livingston, Esq ; Chancellor of the state of New York. "Immediately after he had taken the oath, the Chancellor proclaimed him President of the United States. — Was answered by the discharge of 13 guns, and by loud repeated shouts ; on this the President bowed to the people, and the air again rang with their acclamations. His Excellency with the two houses, then retired to the Senate Chamber and delivered his speech. J * Richard Henry Lee, Ralph Izard, and Tristram Dalton. f Egbert Benson, Fisher Ames, James Madison, Charles Carroll, and Roger Sherman. J " As the company returned into the Senate chamber, the President took the chair and the Senators and Representatives their seats. He rose, and all arose also, and addressed them. This great man was agitated and em- barrassed more than ever he was by the leveled cannon or pointed musket. He trembled, and several times could scarce make out to read, though it 132 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1789 " His excellency accompanied by the Vice President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives [Frederick A. Muhlenberg] and both Houses of Congress went to St. Paul's chapel [Broadway and Vesey Street] where divine Service was performed by Right Reverend Dr. [Samuel] Provost, Bishop of the Episcopal Church in this State and Chaplain in Congress. The religious ceremony being ended, the President was escorted to his house, and the citizens retired to their homes. In the evening was exhibited under the direction of Colonel Bauman, a very ingenious and splendid show of Fireworks." * — Pennsylvania Packet, May 4. FRIDAY, MAY 1. At New York : " New York, May 2. — Yesterday morning The President received the compliments of His Excellency the Vice President, His Excellency the Governor of this State ; the principal Officers of the different Departments ; the foreign Ministers ; and a great number of other persons of distinction." — Gazette of the United States. TUESDAY, MAY 5. At New York : " May 5. — This being a day for receiving company of ceremony, we had a numerous and splendid circle between the hours of two and three in the afternoon. must be supposed he had often read it before. He put part of the fingers of his left hand into the side of what I think the tailors call the fall of the breeches, changing the paper into his left [right] hand. After some time he then did the same with some of the fingers of his right hand. When he came to the words all the world, he made a flourish^with his right hand, which left rather an ungainly impression. I sincerely, for my part, wished all set ceremony in the hands of the dancing-masters, and that this first of men had read off" his address in the plainest manner, without ever taking his eyes from the paper, for I felt hurt that he was not first in every thing. He was dressed in deep brown, with metal buttons, with an eagle on them, white stockings, a bag, and sword." — Journal of William Mad ay. * '■^ April 30. — In the evening there was a display of most beautiful fire- works and transparent paintings at the Battery. The President, Colonel Humphreys, and myself went in the beginning of the evening in the car- riages to Chancellor Livingston's and General Knox's where we had a full view of the fire-works. We returned home on foot, the throng of people being so great as not to permit a carriage to pass through it." — Diary of Tobias Lear. 1789] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 133 A committee of the House of Representatives * waited on the President with a copy of the address of their House, and a request to know when it would be agreeable to him to receive it."' — Diary of Tobias Lear. Soon after the inauguration it became apparent that particular rules should be established for receiving visitors and entertaining company, so that the President might be able to attend to business without interruption. It was therefore decided that he should return no visits, that invitations to dinner should be given only to official characters and strangers of distinction, and that the visits of courtesy should be confined to the afternoon of Tuesday in each week between the hours of three and four. Foreign ministers and strangers were, however, received on other days. On Friday evenings the house was open for visits to Mrs. Washington, which were on a more sociable footing, and at which the President was always present. Mrs. Washington held her first levee on the evening of Friday, the 29th of May, two days after her arrival in New York. Thursday of each week was assigned for the state dinners. WEDNESDAY, MAY 6. At New York : " New York, May 9. — On Wednesday the 6th inst. was held in St. Paul's Church, the annual COM- MENCEMENT of COLUMBIA COLLEGE. . . . THE PRESIDENT— His Excellency the Vice-President— the Senate — the GOVERNOR, and principal officers of the Republic, honored by their presence, this highly useful and important literary Institution." — Gazette of the United States. THUESDAY, MAY 7. At New York : " May 9. — Last Thursday evening [May 7] the subscribers of the Dancing Assembly gave an elegant Ball and Entertainment to his Excellency the President of the United States, who was pleased to honor the company with his presence. His Excellency the Vice President, most of the Members of both Houses of Congress, the Governor of New York, the Chancellor, and Chief Justice of the State [Richard Morris], the Hon. John Jay, and the * Thomas Sinnickson, of New Jersey ; Isaac Coles, of Virginia ; and William Smith, of South Carolina. 134 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1789 Hon. Gen. Knox, the Commissioners of the Treasury [Samuel Osgood, Walter Livingston, and Arthur Lee], His Worship the Mayor of the city, the late President of Congress [Cyrus Griffin], the Governor of the West- ern Territory [Arthur St. Clair], the Baron Steuben, the Count de Moustier, Ambassador of his Most Christian Majesty, and many other foreigners of distinction were pres- ent. A numerous and brilliant collection of ladies graced the room with their appearance. The whole number of persons was about three hundred. The company retired about two o'clock, after having spent a most agreeable evening. Joy, satisfaction and vivacity was expressive in every countenance — and every pleasure seemed to be heightened by the presence of a Washington." — New York Packet. The ball was held at the Assembly Koom, on the east side of Broadway, a little above "Wall Street, and it was decorated for the occasion with tasteful and appropriate magnificence. The President danced during the evening in the cotillion with Mrs. Peter Van Brugh Livingston and Mrs. James H. Maxwell, and in a minuet with Mrs. Maxwell's sister. Miss Van Zandt. It is said that an agreeable surprise was prepared by the managers for every woman who attended. A sufficient number of fans had been made for the purpose in Paris, the ivory frames of which displayed, as they were opened, between the hinges and the elegant paper covering, an extremely well exe- cuted medallion portrait of Washington, in profile, and a page was appointed to present one, with the compliments of the managers, as each couple passed ' the receiver of the tickets. FKIDAY, MAY 8. At Kew York : " New York, May 8. — Mr. Smith, of South Carolina, informed the House [of Representatives], that the President was ready to receive their address [in answer to his speech to both Houses]. The House imme- diately rose, and following the Speaker, attended The President in the room adjoining, where [at twelve o'clock] the Address was presented by the Speaker, in the name of the House." — Gazette of the United States. 1789] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 135 " New York, May 13. — Last Saturday [May 9] the Mayor and Members of the Corporation of this city, attended by the proper Officers, waited on The President of the United States, and presented him with an Ad- dress." — Idem. MONDAY, MAY 11. At New York : " May 11. — I received a ticket from the President of the United States to use his box this evening at the theatre [John Street, near Broadway], being the first of his appearance at the playhouse since his entering on his office. The President, Governor of the State, foreign Ministers, Senators from New Hampshire [John Langdon and Paine Wingate], Connecticut [William S. Johnson and Oliver Ellsworth], Pennsylvania [William Maclay and Robert Morris], M., and South Carolina [Pierce Butler anroct'Ssion — from thence I was conducted in like manner to my lodgings — after which I dined at the Governors (in what he called a private way) with 15 or 18 Gentlemen." — Washington's Diary. " May 3. — Breakfasted with Mrs. [John] Rutledge (the Lady of the Chief- Justice of the State who was on the Circuits) and dined with the Citizens at a public dinr. given by them at the Exchange. Was visited about 2 o'clock, by a great number of the most respectable ladies of Charleston — the first honor of the kind I had ever experienced and it was as flattering as ]791] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 217 it was singular. May 4. — Dined with the Members of the Cincinnati, and in the evening went to a very elegant dancing Assembly at the Exchange — At which were 256 elegantly dressed & handsome ladies. In the forenoon (indeed before breakfast to day) I visited and examined the lines of attack & defence of the City and was satisfied that the defence was noble & hon- orable altho' the measure was undertaken ijp:>n wrong principles and im- politic. May 5. — Visited the works of Fort Johnson James' Island, and Fort Moultree on Sullivan's Island; both of which are in Ruins. . . . Dined with a very large Company at the Governor's & in the evening went to a Concert at the Exchange at wch. there were at least 400 ladies the number & appearance of wch. exceeded any thing of the kind I had ever seen. May'Q. — Viewed the town on horseback by riding through most of the principal Streets Dined at Majr. [Pierce] Butler's and went to a Ball in the evening at the Governor's where there was a select Company of ladies. May 7. — Before break [fust] I visited the Orphan House at which there were one hundred & seven boys & girls — This appears to be a chari- table institution and under good management. May 8. — "Went to crowded Churches in the morning and afternoon. . . . Dined with General Moul- tree " — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, MAY 9. Leaves Charleston : " Mai/ 9. — At six o'clock I recom- menced my journey for Savanna; attended by a Corps of the Cincinnati and most of the principal Gentlemen of the City as far as the bridge over Ashley River, where we breakfasted, and proceeded to Col° W. "Washington's at Sandy-hill with a select party of particular friends — distant from Charleston 28 miles." — Washington's Diary. " May 10. — Took leave of all my friends and attendants at this place (ex- cept General Moultree & Majr. Butler the last of whom intended to accom- pany me to Savanna and the other to Purisburgh, at which I was to be met by Boats,) & breakfasting at Judge Bee's 12 miles from Sandy Hill, lodged at Mr. Obrian Smith's 18 or 20 further on. May 11. — After an early break- fast at Mr. Smith's we road 20 miles to a place called Pokitellieo [Pocotaligo] where a dinner was provided by the Parishoners of Prince "William for my reception, and an address from them was presented and answered. After dinner we proceeded 16 miles farther to Judge Hayward's where we lodged." — Washington's Diary. THURSDAY, MAY 12. At Savannah, Georgia: ^^ May 12. — By five o'clock we set out from Judge Hayward's, and rode to Purisburgh 22 218 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1791 miles to breakfast. At that place I was met by Messrs. [Noble "Wimberly] Jones, Col" [Joseph] Habersham, Mr. Jno. Houston, Genl. [Lachlin] Mcintosh and Mr. [Joseph] Clay, a Comee. from the City of Savanna to conduct me thither. — Boats also were ordered there by them for my accommodation ; among which a handsome 8 oared barge rowed by 8 American Captns. attended. — In my way down the River I called upon Mrs. Green the Widow of the deceased Genl. [NathanaelJ Green, (at a place called Mul- berry Grove) & asked her how she did. . . . We were seven hours making the passage which is often performed in 4 tho' the computed distance is 25 miles — Illumns. at night. " I was conducted by the Mayor & Wardens to very good lodging which had been provided for the occasion, and par- took of a public dinner given by the Citizens at the Coftee Room. — At Purisburgh I parted with Genl. Moultree." — Washington'' s Diary. " May 13. — Dined -with the Members of the Cincinnati at a public dinner given at the same place — and in the evening went to a dancing Assembly at which there was about 100 well dressed and handsome ladies. May 14. — A little after 6 o'clociv, in Company with Genl. Mcintosh, Genl. [Anthony] Wayne, the Mayor and many others (principal Gentlemen of the City,) I visited the City, and the attack & defence of it in the year 1779, under the combined forces of France and the United States, commanded by the Count de Estaing & Genl. Lincoln. . . . Dined to day with a number of the Citi- zens (not less than 200) in an elegant Bower erected for the occasion on the Bank of the River below the Town. — In the evening there was a tolerable good displiiy of fireworks." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, MAY 15. Leaves Savannah : " May 15. — After morning Service, and receiving a number of visits from the most respectable ladies of the place (as was the case yesterday) I set out for Augusta, Escorted beyd. the limits of the City by most of the Gentlemen in it, and dining at Mulberry Grove the Seat of Mrs. Green, — lodged at one Spencers — distant 15 miles." — Washington'' s Diary. 1791] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 219 '■^ May 16. ^Breakfasted at Kussells — 15 miles from Spencer's— dined at Garnets 19 further & lodged at Pierces 8 miles more, in all — 42 miles to day. May 17. — Breakfasted at Spinner's 17 miles — dined at Lamberts 13 — and lodged at "Waynesborough (wch. was coming 6 miles out of the way) 14, in all 43 miles." — Washington's Diary. WEDNESDAY, MAY 18. At Augusta, Georgia : ^^ May 18. — Breakfasted atTulcher's 15 miles from Waynesborough ; and within 4 miles of Au- gusta met the Govor. [Edward Telfair], Judge [George] Walton, the Attorney Genl. & most of the principal Gentle- men of the place ; by whom I was escorted into the Town, & reed, under a discharge of Artillery, — the distance I came to day was about 32 miles — Dined with a large Company at the Governors, & drank Tea there with many well dressed Ladies." — Washington's Diary. '^ May 19. — Keceived & answered an Address from the Citizens of Au- gusta ; dined with a large Company of them at their Court Ho. — and went to an Assembly in the evening at the Accadamy ; at which there were be- tween 60 & 70 well dressed ladies. May 20. — Viewed the Kuins, or rather small Kemns. of the Works which had been erected by the British during the War and taken by the Americans. — Also the falls, which are about 2 miles above the Town ; — and the Town itself. . . . Dined at a private din- ner with Govr. Telfair to day. May 21. — Left Augusta about 6 o'clock, and takg. leave of the Governor & principal Gentlemen of the place at the bridge over Savanna River, where they had assembled for the purpose, I proceeded in Company with Col"" [Wade] Hampton & Taylor, & Mr. Lith- gow a committee from Columbia, (who had come on to meet & conduct me to that place) «fe a Mr. Jameson from the Village of Granby on my Rout. Dined at a house about 20 miles from Augusta and lodged at one Odem about 20 miles farther." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, MAY 22. At Columbia, South Carolina : " May 22. — Rode about 21 miles to breakfast, and passing through the village of Granby just below the first falls in the Congaree (which was passed in a flat bottomed boat at a Rope ferry,) I lodged at Columbia, the newly adopted Seat of the Gov- ernment of South Carolina about 3 miles from it, on the 220 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1791 !N'o. side of the River, and 27 from my breakfasting stage." — Washington's Diary. " May 23. — Dined at a public dinner in the State house with a number of Gentlemen & Ladies of the Town of Columbia, & Country round about to the amt. of more than 150, of which 50 or 60 were of the latter. May 1^4. — The condition of my foundered horse obliged me to remain at this place, con- trary to my intention, this day also." — Washington's Diary. WEDNESDAY, MAY 25. At Camden, South Carolina : " May 25. — Set out at 4 o'clock for Camden — (the foundered horse being led slowly on) — breakfasted at au indifferent house 22 miles from the town, (the first we came to) and reached Camden about two o'clock, 14 miles further, when an address was reed. & answered. — Dined late with a number of Gentlemen & Ladies at a public dinner." — Washinyton's Diary. " May 26. — After viewing the british works about Camden I set out for Charlotte — on mj^ way — two miles from Town — I examined the ground on wch. Genl. Green & Lord Eawdon had their action [Hobkirk's Hill, April 25, 1781] . . . Six miles further on I came to the ground where Genl. Gates & Lord Cornwallis had their Engagement [August 16, 1780] wch. terminated so unfavourably for the former. . . . After Halting at one Sut- ton's 14 m. from Camden I lodged at James Ingrams 12 miles father. May 27. — Left Ingrams about 4 o'clock, and breakfasting at one Barr's 18 miles distant lodged at Majr. Crawford's 8 miles farther." — Washington's Diary. SATUKDAY, MAY 28. At Charlotte, North Carolina: ''May 28.— Set off from Crawford's by 4 o'clock and breakfasting at one Harrison's 18 miles from it got into Charlotte 13 miles further, before 3 o'clock, — dined with Genl. [Thomas] Polk and a small party invited by him, at a Table prepared for the purpose." — WashingtorCs Diary. " May 29. — Left Charlotte about 7 o'clock, dined at Col" Smiths 15 miles off, and lodged at Majr. Fifers [Phifer] 7 miles farther." — Washington's Diary. 1791] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 221 MONDAY, MAY 30. At Salisbury, North Carolina : " May 30. — At 4 o'clock I was out from Majr. Fifers ; and in about 10 miles at the line which divides Mecklenburgh from Rowan Counties ; I met a party of horse belonging to the latter who came from Salisbury to escort me on. ... I was also met 5 miles from Salisbury by the Mayor of the Corporation, Judge McKoy, & many others. . . . We arrived at Salisbury about 8 o'clock, to breakfast, — 20 miles from Captn. Fifers. . . . Dined at a public dinner givn. by the Citizens of Salisbury; & in the afternoon drank Tea at the same place with about 20 ladies, who had been assembled for the occasion." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, MAY 31. At Salem, ]!^orth Carolina: ''May 31. — Left Salisbury about 4 o'clock; at 5 miles crossed the Yadkin, the princi- pal stream of the Pedee, and breakfasted on the Xo. Bank, (while my Carriages & horses were crossing) at a Mr. Youngs' fed my horses 10 miles farther at one Reeds — and about 3 o'clock (after another halt) arrived at Salem, one of the Moravian towns 20 miles farther — In all 35 from Salisbury. . . . Salem is a small but neat village ; & like all the rest of the Moravian settlements, is governed by an ex- cellent police — having within itself all kinds of artizans — The number of Souls does not exceed 200." — Washington's Diary. '■^ June 1. — Spent the forenoon in visiting the Shops of the different Tradesmen — The houses of accomodation for the single men & Sisters of the Fraternity — & their place of worship. — Invited six of their principal people to dine with me — and in the evening went to hear them sing, & per- form on a variety of instruments Church music. In the Afternoon Gover- nor [Alexander] Martin as was expected (with his Secretary) arrived." — Washington's Diary. THUKSDAY, .JUNE 2. At Guilford, North Carolina : " June 2. — In company with the Gov"" I set out by 4 Oclock for Guilford. — Break- 222 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1791 fasted at one Dobsons at the distance of eleven Miles from Salem and dined at Guilford 16 miles farther ; where there was a considerable gathering of people who had receiv'd Xotice of my intention to be there to-day & came to satisfy their curiosity. ... On my approach to this place (Guilford) I was met by a party of light horse which I prevailed on the Governor to dismiss, and to countermand his orders for others to attend me through the State." — Washington's Diary. ^^ June 3. — Took my leave of the Govern"' whose intention was to have attend me to the line, but for my request that he would not ; and about 4 Oclock proceeded on my journey. — Breakfasted at troublesome Ironworks (called 15, but which is at least) 17 Miles from Guilford partly in Rain and from my information or for want of it was obliged to travel 12 miles further than I intended to daj^ — to one Gatewoods within two Miles of Dix' ferry over the Dan, at least 30 Miles from the Iron works. Jtme 4— Left ^M"^ Gatewoods about half after Six oclock — and between his house & the Ferry passed the line which divides the States of Virginia and N" Carolina & dining at one Wisoms 16 Miles from the Ferry lodged at Hallifax old Town. June 5. — Left the old Town about 4 oclock A.M. & breakfasting at one Pridie's (after crossing Banister River 1^ Miles) ab' 11 Miles from it, came to Staunton River about 12 ; where meeting Col» Isaac Coles (formerly a Member of Congress for this district &] who pressing me to it, I went to his house about one Mile off to dine and to halt a day, for the Refreshment of myself and horses ; leaving my Servants and them at one of the usually in- different Taverns at the Ferry that they might give no trouble, or be incon- venient to a private family. June 6. — Dined at this Gentlemans to day also. Jime 7. — Left Col" Coles by day break, and breakfasted at Charlotte C H" 15 Miles where I was detained some time to get Shoes put on such horses as had lost them — proceeded afterwards to Prince Edward Court House 20 Miles further. June 8. — Left Prince Edward Court H" as soon as it was well liL^ht & breakfasted at one Treadways 13 Miles off, — dined at Cumberland C^ K" 14 Miles further — and lodged at Moores Tavern within 2 miles from Carter's ferry over James River. June 9. — Set off very early from Moores — but the proper ferry boat being hauled up we were a tedious while crossing in one of the Boats used in the navigation of the River ; being obliged to carry one carriage at a time without horses & crossways the Boat on planks. — Break- fasted at a Widow pains 17 Miles on the N** side of the River, and lodged at a M" Jordans a private house where we were kindly entertained and to which we were driven by necessity having Rode not less than 25 miles from our breakfasting stage through very bad Roads in a very sultry day with^ anj' re- freshment & by missing the right Road had got to it." — Washington's Diary. 1791] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 223 FKIDAY, JUNE 10. At Fredericksburg, Virginia : ^^ June 10. — Left M" Jor- dans early & breakfasting at one Johnston's 7 miles o& reached Fredericksburgh after another (short) halt about 3 oclock & dined and lodged at my Sister Lewis's." — Wash- ington's Diary. " June 11. — After a dinner with several Gentlemen whom my Sister had envited to dine with me I crossed the Rappahannock & proceeded to Stafford C House where I lodged. June 12. — About Sunrise we v/ere off— breal<- fasted at Dumfries and arrived at M' V° to Dine." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, JUNE 13. At Mount Vernon : " From Monday IS'*" until Monday the 27"* (being the day I had appointed to meet the Com- missioners under the Residence Act, at Georgetown) I re- mained at home ; and spent my time in daily Rides to my sever^ farms — and in receiving many visits." — Washington's Diary. '' June 27. — Left Mount Vernon for Georgetown before Six o'clock ; — and according to appointment met the Commissioners at that place by 9 — then calling together the Proprietors of those Lands on which the federal City was proposed to be built who had agreed to cede them on certain conditions at the last meeting I had with them at this place but from some misconcep- tion with respect to the extension of their grants had refused to make con- veyances and recapitulating the principles upon which my com"' to them at the former meeting were made and giving some explanations of the present State of matters & the consequences of delay in this business they readily waved their objections & ag'^ to convey t« the utmost extfMit of what was required. June 28. — Whilst the Commissioners were engaged in preparing the Deeds to be signed by the Subscribers this afternoon, I went out with Maj" L'Enfant and Ellicot to take a more perfect view of the ground, in order to decide finally on the Spots on which to place the public buildings— and to direct how a line which was to leave out a Spring (commonly known by the name of the Cool Spring) belonging to Maj'' Stoddart should be run. June 29. — The Deeds which remained unexecuted yesterday were signed to- day and the Dowers of their respective wives acknowledged according t<> Law. This being accomplished, I called the Several Subscribers together and made known to them the spots on which I meant to place the buildings for the P : & Executive departments of the Government — and for the Legis- 224 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1791 lature of D" — A Plan was also laid before them of the City in order to convey- to them general ideas of the City — but they were told that some deviations from it would take place — particularly in the diagonal Streets or avenues, which would not be so numerous ; and in the removal of the Presidents house more westerly for the advantage of higher ground— they were also told that a Town house, or exchange w"* be placed on some convenient ground between the spots designed for the public build^^ before mentioned. — And it was with much pleasure that a general approbation of the measure seemed to pervade the whole." — Washington's Diary. THUKSDAY, JUNE 30. At Frederick Town, Maryland : " June 30. — The business which bro* me to Georgetown being finished & the Com" instructed with respect to the mode of carrying the plan into effect I set off this morning a little after 4 oclock in the prosecution of my journey towards Philadelphia ; and being desirous of seeing the nature of the Country North of Georgetown, and along the upper Road, I resolved to pass through Fredericktown in Maryland — & York & Lan- caster in Pennsylvania & accordingly — Breakfasted at a small Village called Williamsburgh in which stands the C House of Montgomerie County 14 M from George Town — dined at one Peter's tavern 20 Miles further — and arrived at Frederick town about sundown — the whole distance 43 miles." — Washington'' s Diary. " Frederick-Town July 5.— On Thursday evening last [June 30], at twenty-five minutes past seven o'clock, the President of the United States, accompanied by his secretary Major Jackson, arrived in this town from Mount Vernon, on his way to Philadelphia.— So sudden and unexpected was the visit of this amiable and illustrious character, as to leave it entirely out of the power of the citizens to make the necessary preparations for his reception. — On notice being given of his arrival, the bells of the Lutheran and Calvinist churches were rung — fifteen rounds from Cannon-Hill were discharged — and a band of music serenaded him in the evening. He was politely invited to spend the succeeding day in town ; but answered (as an apology for not accepting the invitation), that public business obliged him to hasten to Philadelphia. The next morning, at ten o'clock, he proceeded on his journey, escorted by several gentlemen, over the Monocosy, on his route to York. Previous to his departure, an address, drawn in great haste, v\'as presented to him : to which he was pleased to return an answer ; exhib- 1791] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 225 iting as usual, fresh proofs of his greatness and goodness." — Claypoole' s Daily Advertiser, July 9. FRIDAY, JULY 1. At Taneytown, Maryland : " July 1. — Received an ad- dress from the Inhabitants of Frederick town and abont 7 o'clock left it — dined at one Cookerlys 13 miles off & lodged at Tawny town only 12 Miles farther — being de- tained at the first stage by Rain and to answer the address w"'' had been presented to me in the Morning. Tawny town is but a small place with only the Street through w"^ the Road passes, built on — the buildings are principally of wood." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, JULY 2. At Yorktown, Pennsylvania : " July 2. — Set out a little after 4 o'clock and in ab' 6 Miles crossed the line w'''' divides the States of Maryland & Pennsylvania — the Trees in w""" are so grown up th* I could not perceive the opening though I kept a lookout for it. — 9 Miles from Tawny town, Littletown is past, they are of similar app* but y* latter is more insignificant than the former. — Seven Miles farther we came to Hanover (commonly called McAlister's town) a very pretty village with a number of good brick Houses & Mechanics in it. At this place, in a good Inn, we break- fasted — and in 18 Miles more reached York Town where we dined and lodged. . . . After dinner in company with Col" [Thomas] Hartley & other Gentlemen I walked through the principal Streets of the Town and drank Tea at Col. Hartleys. — The C 11° was illuminated." * — Washington's Diary. *" Saturday last [July 2] the President of the United States arrived here [Yorktown] from Mount Vernon on his way to Philadelphia. His arrival which was about 2 o'clock was announced by the ringing of bells. The Independent Light Infantry, commanded by Capt. George Hay, paraded, and being drawn up before his Excellency's lodging fired fifteen 15 226 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1791 " On the 2nd. of July, 1791, in the afternoon, at 2 o'clk came the Hon- orable President Washington to York town ; all the bells of the town rang in honor of the event as if the voices of the Archangels sounding in harmony commanded attentitm. I could not repress my tears at the thought of all this, indeed I cried aloud, not from a sense of sadness, but from a feeling of very joj'fulness. In the evening, there was a general illumination, and in the Court House in each pane was set a light." — Rev. John Roth, Diary of the Moravian Congregation of Yorktown, Pennsylvania, MS. SUNDAY, JULY 3. At Lancaster, Pennsylvania: '•'• July 3. — Received and answered an address from the Inhabitants of Yorktown — & there being no Episcopal Minister jjreseni in the place, I went to hear morning Service performed in the Dutch re- formed Church — which, being in that language not a word of which I understood I was in no danger of becoming a proselyte to its religion by the eloquence of the Preacher. — " After Service, accompanied by Col" Hartley & half a dozen other Gentlemen, I set off for Lancaster — Dined at Wrights Ferry [Columbia] where I was met by Gen^ [Ed- ward] Hand & many of the principal characters of Lancas- ter & escorted to the town by them, arriving ab* 6 o'clock." — Washington's Diary. " Lancaster, July 3. — This evening at 6 o'clock, arrived here, on his re- turn from his Southern Tour, his Excellency the President of the United States, accompanied by Major Jackson. He was escorted from Wright's Ferry by a respectable number of the inhabitants of this borough." — Clay- poolers Daily Advertiser, July 12. MONDAY, JULY 4. At Lancaster : " July 4. — This being the Anniversary of American Independence and being kindly requested to do it, I agreed to halt here this day and partake of the enter- tainment which was preparing for the celebration of it. — In rounds. At night there were illuminations and every other demonstration of joy." — The Pennsylvania Herald and York General Advertiser, July 6, 1791. 1791] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 227 the forenoon I walked about the town — At half passed 2 oclock I received, and answered an address from the Cor- poration and the Complim'° of the Clergy of diiferent de- nominations — dined between 3 & 4 oclock — drank Tea with M" Hand." — Washington's Diary. " July 12. — On Monday, July 4, being the Anniversary of American Independence, the Corporation [of Lancaster], at the particular request of the inhabitants, waited on him [the President] with an address : At three o'clock the President, and a very large number of citizens, set down to an elegant entertainment, provided for the occasion, in the court-house." — Claypoole's Daily Advertiser. WEDNESDAY, JULY 6. At Philadelphia : " July 7. — Yesterday the President of the United States arrived in this cit}-, on his return from his southern tour. His approach was announced to the citizens, by the firing of cannon and the ringing of bells." — Dunlap's American Daily Advertiser. WEDNESDAY, JULY 20. At Philadelphia : " I yesterday had Mr. Jaudenes,* who was in this country with Mr. Gardoqui, and is now come over in a public character, presented to me for the first time by Mr. Jefiferson. Colonel Ternant is expected here every day as minister from France." — Washington to David Humphreys. Colonel Humphreys was at this time in Lisbon, having been appointed minister to Portugal on February 21. At the time of the appointment he was in London, having left the United States in August, 1790. Mr. Hum- phreys revisited this country in 1794, returned the following year, and soon afterward married Miss Bulkly, an English woman of fortune. He was transferred (May 20, 1796) from Lisbon to the court of Madrid, where he remained until succeeded by Charles Pinckney in 1802. * Don Joseph De Jaudennes was associated with Don Joseph De Viar, the Spanish minister, in the management of Spanish interests in the United States. He subsequently acted as commissioner and envoy from Spain. 228 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1791 TUESDAY, AUGUST 9. At Philadelphia : " A slight indisposition, since my re- turn, (occasioned by a tumor, not much unlike the one I had at New York in 1789), of which I am now recovered, does not forbid the expectation, that my health may be ultimately improved by my tour through the southern States." — Washington to William Moultrie. THUESDAY, AUGUST 18. At Philadelphia: '■'■ August 20. — Thursday [August 18], the French and Spanish Ambassadors, together witli sev- eral other distinguished personages dined with the Presi- dent of the United States, and in the evening there was a small display of fire works exhibited nearly opposite the President's house, given by a few citizens in compli- ment to the Company." — Dunlap's American Daily Adver- tiser. " August 10. — Yesterday arrived in this city Mons. De Ternant, Minis- ter Plenipotentiary from his Most Christian Majesty to the United States of America, after a passage of 45 days from Rochefort, on board the frisjjate La Favorite. In his suite came Messieurs Dupont and Kellerman." * — Idem. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 5. At Philadelphia : " September 5. — This afternoon went to the President's house on Market Street and there dined with him and his lady, and four members of his family, besides the following members of the [Pennsylvania] House [of Representatives] : Hon. William Bingham, Speaker, Messrs. [Richard] Wells, [Francis] Gurncy, [Lawrence] Seckel from the city; [William] Macpherson, [Thomas] Lilly, [Philip] Gardner, [Henry] Tyson, [Joseph] Reed, * Jean Baptiste Ternant served as major in the Revolutionary War under Baron Steuben (whom he accompanied to this country) until September 25, 1778, when he was made lieutenant-colonel and inspector of the armies in Georgia and South Carolina. He was taken prisoner at Charleston in 1780, but was soon exchanged, and returned to France after the conclusion of peace. 1791] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 229 [David] Stewart, [Jonathan] Hoge, [John] Montgomery, [Samuel] Maclay, [John] White, [William] Findlay, [John] Baird, [Jacob] Ejerly, [Anthony] Lerch, [John] Mulhol- lan, [Adamsou] Tannehill, and Peter Lloyd, our clerk. I cannot help remarking that President Washington is an unassuming, easy and sociable man, beloved by every per- son." — Diary of Jacob Hiltzheimer. THUKSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15. Leaves Philadelphia: ^^ September 19. — Thursday after- noon [September 15], the President left this city on a tour to Mount Vernon." — Claypoole's Dally Advertiser. The Viscount de Chateaubriand, who dined with the President the day before his departure for Mount Vernon, after describing in his " Travels in America and Italy," published in 1828, his first interview* with Washing- ton, refers to the dinner in the following words : " The conversation turned almost entirely on the French revolution. The general showed us a key of the Bastille : those keys of the Bastille were but silly playthings which wen; about that time distributed over the two worlds. Had Washington seen like me the conquerors of the Bastille in the kennels of Paris, he would have had less faith in the relic. The gravity and the energy of the revolution were not in those sanguinary orgies. At the time of the revocation of the edict of Nantt's, in 1685, the same populace of the Faubourg Saint-Antoine demolished the Protestant church at Charenton with as much zeal as it despoiled the church of St Denis in 1793. " I left my host at ten in the evening, and never saw him again : he set out for the country the following day, and I continued my journey. "Such was my interview with that man who gave liberty to a whole world. Washington sunk into the tomb before any little celebrity had at- tached to my name. I passed before him as the most unknown of beings ; he was in all his glory, I in the depth of my obscurity, my name probably dwelt not a whole day in his memory. Happy, however, that his looks were cast upon me.! I have felt myself warmed for it all the rest of my life. There is a virtue in the looks of a great man." * At this interview, upon perceiving the astonishment of the President when he stated that the object of his voyage was to discover the passage to the northwest by penetrating to the polar sea, Chateaubriand said, " But it is less difficult to discover the northwest passage than to create a nation as you have done." 230 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1791 MONDAY, SEPTEMBEK 19. At George Town : " George- Town, September 24. — MON"- DAY evening last [September 19] the PRESIDENT of the United States, his Lady, and Suite, arrived in this town from the Seat of Government, and on Tuesday took their departure for Mount Vernon." — Claypoole's Daily Adver- tiser, September 30. SATUKDAY, OCTOBER 15. At Mount Vernon : " From long experience I have laid it down as an unerring maxim, that to exact rents with punctuality is not only the right of the landlord, but that it is also for the benefit of the tenant that it should be so, unless by uncontrollable events and providential strokes the latter is rendered unable to pay them." — Washington to Robert Lewis. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21. At Philadelphia : " October 22.— The President of the United States arrived in town yesterday, from Mount Vernon." — CtaypooWs Daily Advertiser. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 25. At Philadelphia : " October 25. — At noon President "Wash- ington went to the Congress at the corner of Chestnut and Sixth Streets, and delivered his address [in the Senate Chamber] — yesterday being the first day of meeting of the Second Congress." — Diary of Jacob Hiltzheimer. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29. At Philadelphia : " October 29. — The Speaker of the House of Pepresentatives [Jonathan Trumbull] attended by the Members repaired to the President's house, and presented him with an answer to his address." — Dunlap's American Daily Advertiser. 1791] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 231 ^^ November 1. — Yesterday [Monday, October 31] at twelve o'clock, the Vice-President attended by the Senate, repaired to the President's House, and presented him with an answer to his address." — Idem. FKIDAY, NOVEMBER 11. At Philadelphia : " November 15. — On Friday last [No- vember 11] Mr. Hammond was introduced to the President, by the Secretary of State, and presented his credentials as his Britannic Majesty's Minister Plenipotentiary to the United States." — Diinlap's American Daily Advertiser. George Hammond was the first minister from Great Britain to the United States. He married (May 20, 1793) Margaret Allen, daughter of Andrew Allen, of Philadelphia, a girl of remarl^able beauty. Mr. Hammond re- mained in this country until 1795, when he returned to England to become under-secretary at the foreign ofiice in London. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8. At Philadelphia : " This afternoon accounts received, which are believed, that General St. Clair's army has been defeated by the Indians. The action happened November 4th, within fifteen miles of the Miami towns. Six hundred of our men killed and wounded. General [Richard] Butler and many officers among the slain." — Timothy Pickering to Mrs. Pickering. When the President received the news of the surprise and defeat of General St. Clair, it is said, on the authority of Colonel Lear,* who was present, that for a few moments he lost all control of himself, and with great violence of manner vehemently denounced the action of St. Clair in allowing himself to be surprised, — an event which he had been expressly cautioned against. The paroxysm of passion, however, lasted but a short time, when he regained his habitual composure. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30. At Philadelphia : " January 3, 1792. — On Friday morn- ing [December 30, 1791] was presented to the President of the United States, a BOX elegantly mounted with silver, * " Washington in Domestic Life," by Richard Rush, p. 65. 232 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1791 and made of the celebrated oak tree that sheltered the Washington of Scotland, the brave and patriotic Sir "William Wallace, after his defeat at the battle of Falkirk, in the beginning of the fourteenth century, by Edward the Ist. This magnificent and truly characteristic present is from the Earl of Buchan, by the hands of Mr. Archibald Robertson, a Scotch gentleman, and portrait painter who arrived in America some months ago." — Claypoole's Daily Advertiser. At the request of the Earl of Buchan, Washington sat to Mr. Robertson for his portrait, to be placed among those most honored by the earl. The portrait obtained at these sittings was taken in miniature; it was retained by the artist, and a large painting executed from it was sent to the earl in May, 1792. A family dinner to which Mr. Robertson was invited i-s tlius described by him : " The dinner, served at three o'clock in the afternoon, was plain, but suitable for a family in genteel and comfortable circumstances. There was nothing specially remarkable at the table, but that the General and Mrs. "Washington sat side by side, he on the right of his lady ; the gentlemen on his right hand and the ladies on her left. It being on Saturday, the first course was mostly of eastern cod and fresh fish. A few glasses of wine were drunk during dinner, with other beverage ; the whole closed with a few glasses of sparkling champagne, in about three quarters of an hour, when the General and Colonel Lear retired, leaving the ladies in high glee about Lord Buchan and the ' Wallace box. ' ' ' 1792. MONDAY, JANTJAKY 2. At Philadelphia : Receives and answers an address from the "Right Worshipful Grand Officers of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania." TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21. At Philadelphia : " February 24. — On Tuesday evening the 2l8t. inst. the city dancing assembly,* gave a ball in honor of the birth day of the President of the United States. They were honored on this occasion with the company of the President and Mrs. Washington, the Vice- President, the foreign Ministers, Mr. Speaker [Jonathan Trumbull] and most of the members of the two houses of Congress, the governor of the state [Thomas Mifflin], and of the Western Territory [Arthur St. Clair], together with many of the most respectable officers of the United States and of this state ; and to crown the whole with one of the most brilliant displays of beauty ever exhibited in this city." — Dunlap's American Daily Advertiser. WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22. At Philadelphia : " February 23. — Yesterday both Houses of Congress walked in Procession to wait on the President of the United States to congratulate him on the anniversary of his Birth Day. . . . The officers of the militia of the ■* This social organization, which dates back to 1748, is still in existence, its members meeting twice during the winter for the enjoyment of dancing. In the early days the balls were given every Thursday evening from Janu- ary to May, beginning at six and ending at twelve o'clock. Now they begin at twelve. 233 234 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1792 City, Liberties and Districts of Philadelphia paid their re- spects in a body and there was also a military parade, with firing of guns and ringing of bells." — Dunla'p's American Daily Advertiser. '■'■ February 2b. — The entertainment given last Wednesday evening [Feb- ruary 22], by the New City Dancing Assembly,* in honor of the President's birth day, was remarkable, we hear, for a brilliant display of beauty, taste and elegance. The President and a number of oflBcers of the government attended. ' ' — Idem. " February 25. — On Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, the 21st and 22d instants, the two Dancing assemblies gave each, successively, a Ball, in honor of this anniversary — at both of which were present, the President of the United States, his Lady and Family — the Vice-President of the United States — the Heads of Departments — the Foreign Ministers— the Speaker, and most of the Members of the two Houses of Congress — the Governor of the State — the Governor of the Western Territory — and many other respect- able Officers of the United States, and of this Commonwealth — and to crown all, there was as brilliant a display of Beauty as was ever exhibited in this city. Elegant entertainments succeeded, when a variety of sentimental and patriotic Toasts were given." — Gazette of the United States. FRIDAY, MAPvCH 23. At Philadelphia : " March 26.— Friday last [March 23] the Indian Warriors lately arrived in this city [March 15], had an audience of the President of the United States." — Dunlap's American Daily Advertiser. The Indian warriors received by the President consisted of fifty chiefs from the Northern tribes of the Six Nations, f among whom was the cele- brated orator Sa-go-ya-wat-ha (He iceeps them awake), better known as Red Jacket. In his address to them the President said, ♦' You have been invited to this place by Colonel Pickering, at my special request, in order to remove all causes of discontent ; to devise and adopt plans to promote your welfare, and firmly to cement the peace between the United States and you, so that in future we shall consider ourselves brethren indeed. I assure you that I am desirous that a firm peace should exist not only be- tween the United States and the Five Nations, but also between the United * A distinct and separate association from the one of a similar character referred to under date of February 21, and probably of short duration, t The Mohawks, Oneidas, Onondagas, Cayugas, Senecas, and Tuscaroras, 1792] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 235 States and all the Nations of this land— and that this peace should be founded upon the principles of justice and humanity, as upon an immovable rock, that you may partake of all the comforts of this earth, which can be derived from civilized life, enriched by the possession of industry, virtue and knowledge." It was during this visit to Philadelphia that the President presented to Ked Jacket a large silver medal, on the principal side of which was engraved a design representing Washington in uniform and standing, having just given the calumet of peace to an Indian chief, who is smoking it. The re- verse bore the United States shield on the breast of the American eagle dis- played, and over his head a glory breaking through a cloud and surrounding thirteen stars. This silver memento, known as the "Ked Jacket Medal," which is still in existence, is interesting as being the first presentation of the kind on the part of the Federal government that we are aware of. MONDAY, APRIL 2. At Philadelphia : Under this date, Edward Thornton, secretary to Mr. George Hammond, the British minister, in writing to Sir James Bland Burges, drew the following character of Washington. " Philadelphia, April 2, 1792. — I promised you in a former letter a de- scriptit)n of the President of the United States, General Washington. Con- scious as I am of the diflBculty and danger of describing again what has been so often described before, 1 will yet attempt to convey to you my idea of him. His person is tall and sufficiently graceful; his face well-formed, his complexion rather pale, with a mild philosophic gravity in the expres- sion of it. In his air and manner he displays much natural dignity; in his address he is cold, reserved, and even phlegmatic, though without the least appearance of haughtiness or ill-nature ; it is the effect, I imagine, of consti- tutional diffidence. That caution and circumspection which form so striking and well-known a feature in his military, and indeed in his political charac- ter, is very strongly marked in his countenance, for his eyes retire inward (do you understand me ?) and have nothing of fire of animation or openness in their expression. If this circumspection is accompanied by discernment and penetration, as I am informed it is, and as I should be inclined to be- lieve from the judicious choice he has generally made of persons to fill jiublic stations, he possesses the two great requisites of a statesman, the faculty of concealing his own sentiments and of discovering those of other men. A certain degree of indecision, however, a want of vigour and energy, may be observed in some of his actions, and are indeed the obvious result of too re- fined caution. He is a man of great but secret ambition, and has.sometimes, I think, condescended to use little arts, and those, too, very shallow ones, to secure the object of that ambition. He is, I am told, indefatigable in busi- 236 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1792 iiess, and extremely clear and systematic in the arrangement of it ; his time is regularly divided into certain portions, and the business allotted to any one portion rigidly attended to. Of his private character I can say little positive. I have never heard of any truly noble, generous, or disinterested action of his ; he has very few who are on terms of intimate and unreserved friendship; and what is worse he is less beloved in his own State (Virginia) than in any part of the United States. After all, he is a great man, circum- stances have made him so ; but I cannot help thinking that the misconduct of our commanders has given him a principal part of that greatness." * SATURDAY, MAY 5. At Philadelphia: " I am much pleased to hear, that the picture by Colonel Trumbull gives so much satisfaction. The merit of this artist cannot fail to give much pleasure to those of his countrymen, who possess a taste for the fine arts ; and I know of no part of the United States, where it would be put to a stronger test than in South Carolina." — Washington to William Moultrie. "The picture by Colonel Trumbull," referred to in the above-quoted letter, was a full-length portrait of Washington in military costume, stand- ing by a horse, painted from life at Philadelphia, in 1792, for the city of Charleston, South Carolina. The picture is still owned by the city. The resolution of the City Council requesting the President to sit to Colonel Trumbull was passed May 7, 1791, at the time he was in Charleston, during his southern tour. The resolution is as follows: ^^ Resolved unanimously, that his Honor the Intendant in behalf of the City Council and their con- stituents, be desired to request of George "Washington, Esquire, President of the United States, that he will be pleased, when it is convenient to him, to permit his portrait to be taken by Colonel Truml>ull, in order that it may be placed in the City Hall, as the most lasting testimony of their attachment to his person, to commemorate his arrival in the Metropolis of this State, and to hand down to posterity the resemblance of the man to whom they are indebted for the blessings of Peace, Liberty and Independence." THURSDAY, MAY 10. Leaves Philadelphia: " May 11. — The President of the United States, yesterday left this city, on a journey to the Southward." — The Aurora. * Selections from the "Letters and Correspondence of Sir James Bland Surges, Bart., sometime Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs," edited by James Hutton. London, 1885. 1792] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 237 SATUKDAY, MAY 19. At Mount Vernon : " My family now Howell * is ad- mitted into it, will be more than full, and in truth than is convenient for the House, as Mr. [Bartholomew] Dan- dridge f (a nephew of Mrs. Washington) is already one of it, and but one room for him, Howell and another person to sleep in, all the others being appropriated to public or private uses." — Washington to Charles Carter. FRIDAY, JUNE 1. At Philadelphia : " June 1.— The President of the United States has arrived in this city from the Southward." — Dan- lap's American Daily Advertiser. " Since his [the President's] return from Virginia, prior to which journey he had desired me to forward a packet for Sir Isaac Heard X which I ad- dressed to you, or to Mr. Boyd for you, by the ship George Barclay ., since that time I have been honoured by an invitation to dine with him. Except in the honour, believe me there is nothing pleasant in the circumstance, for it is of all others the most dull and unentertaining. The President's reserve, the effect partly I think of pride, partly of constitutional diffidence, throws a restraint on the whole party. The conversation was in consequence un- commonly phlegmatic and trivial, though as the party contracted into a smaller circle, the Secretary of State's strictures on monarchs began to throw a certain portion of animation into it. This gentleman (Thomas Jefierson) is, or affects to be, a most rigid republican ; a warm admirer of Thomas Paine, and a vigorous stickler for revolutions and for the downfall of all aristocracy. The death of the King of Sweden [Gustavus III.] made it extremely probable, he said, that there would be a revolution in that country during the minority of his successor. '• The most dignified character in thi.^ country (Washington) has a good deal of (I cannot call it republicanism, for he affects state, he loves to be treated with great respect, and (by the by) is not a little flattered, I con- ceive, by the particular attention of Mr. Hammond not to visit him but in * Howell Lewis, son of Washington's sister Betty. t Son of Judge Bartholomew Dandridge, a brother of Mrs. Washington. He died in 1802, while consul at San Domingo. + This packet, under date of May 2, 1792, contained particulars respecting the Washington family in Virginia, for which Sir Isaac Heard, Garter Principal King of Arms, had written to the President. This history of the American branch will be found in Sparks, vol. i. p. 547. 238 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1792 full dress, but of) a certain dislike to monarchy. If Kings were Presi- dents, or if the President were a King, I believe that aversion would cease. At present he cannot but conceive himself much inferior in dignity and importance to any of them. "When he travels, it is in a very kingly style; for on his last journey he foundered five horses, and 1 am informed that his secretaries are not admitted into his carriage, but stand with their horses' bridles in their hands till he is seated, and then mount and ride before his carriage." — Edward Thornton to Sir James Bland Surges, Bart., June 11, 1792. TUESDAY, JUNE 5. At Philadelphia : " June 5. — "We have authority to inform the Public, that the PRESIDENT of the UNITED STATES intends to honor the Theatre with his Presence this Even- ing.'' * — Danlap's American Daily Adveriiser. " June 8. — "We hear, that on Tuesday last [June 6], the President of the United States and hi.s Lady, attended by the Secretary of State, and the Secretary of the Treasury and his Lady, honoured Mr. Pearce with a visit to his Cotton Manufactory [No. 13 Penn Street]. — The President atten- tively viewed the Machinery &c. and .saw the business performed in its difterent branches, which met with his warmest approbation." — Idem. THUKSDAY, JUNE 21. At Philadelphia : " In the course of last winter, I had some of the chiefs of the Cherokees in this city, and in the spring I obtained, with some difficulty indeed, a full repre- sentation of the Six Nations to come hither. I have sent all of them away well satisfied, and fully convinced of the justice and good dispositions of this government towards the Indian nations generally. . . . With difficulty still greater, I have brought the celebrated Joseph Brant [Thayendanegea] to this city, with a view to impress him also with the equitable intentions of this government towards all the nations of his color. He only arrived last * " For the Benefit of Mons. Placide. BY AUTHOKITY. By the Old American Company, at the Theatre in Southwark. This Evening, June 5, Will be presented a COMEDY, Called— The Beaux Stratagem. End of the Play, DANCING on the TIGHT KOPE, By Monsieur Placidk and the Little Devil." — Dunlap's American Dally Advertiser, June 5. 1792] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 239 night,* and I am to give him an audience at twelve this day." — Washington to Gouvemeur Morris. The policy of the first President toward the Indians was, if possible, to attach them to the interests of the United States, and at the same time to persuade them to exchange the savage state for one of civilization. To carry out this design it was thought that no better plan could be adopted than to impress upon them the habits of industry and the cultivation of their lands. In concluding an address (January 19, 1791) to Cornplanter, Halftown, and Great-Tree, three chiefs of the Seneca Nation, at that time on a visit to the seat of government, "Washington said, " Yuu may, when you return from this city to your own country, mention to your nation my desire to promote their prosperity, by teaching them the use of domestic animals, and the manner that the white people plough and raise so much corn ; and if, upon consideration, it would be agreeable to the nation at large to leam these arts, I will find some means of teaching them at such places within their country as shall be agreed upon." TUESDAY, JULY 3. At Philadelphia : " Your letter of the 20th ultimo was presented to me hy Mr. Williams, who as a professional man may or may not be, for aught I know, a luminary of the first magnitude. But to be frank, and I hope you will not be displeased with me for being so, I am so heartily tired of the attendance, which, from one cause or another has been given to these people, that it is now more than two years since I have resolved to sit no more for an}^ of them, and have adhered to it, except in instances where it has been requested by public bodies, or for a particular pur- pose (not of the painters), and could not without offence be refused." — Washington to Henry Lee. Notwithstanding this refusal, Mr. Williams persevered in his purpose, and, acting upon the hint conveyed in the above-quoted letter, otfered to compliment the Alexandria Washington Lodge, No. 22, with a portrait of the President, provided the Lodge would apply to him for that purpose. * " Jtine 21. — Arrived yesterday Evening in this City, Escorted by Colonel Thomas Proctor, and Major Stagg, Col. Joseph Brandt, the celebrated Chief of the Six Nations of the Northern Indians." — Dunlap's A^nerican Daily Advertiser. 240 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1792 This offer was brought before the Lodge at a meeting held August 29, 1793, and, being received with favor, the application was ordered to be made. Being thus armed, Mr. Williams met with better success, and obtained a sitting fi'om the President in September, 1794.* This portrait, a half-length, is still in the possession of the Alexandria Lodge ; it represents Washington as a Mason, with the collar and jewel of a Past Master, and amounts so nearly to a caricature (judging from the print after it by O'Neill) f that it would seem the President, in refusing the original application, must have hud some inkling as to the lack of artistic powers on the part of Mr. Williams. WEDNESDAY, JULY 4. At Philadelphia: '-'■ July h. — Yesterday, being the anni- versary of the political birth-day of our country, was ush- ered in with every demonstration of joy due to the occasion, which gave freedom to a world — Congratulations, becoming freemen governed by equal laws, were expressed with a cordiality, which freemen only can feel — Bells and cannon but feebly proclaimed the sentiments of citizens, who, con- scious of the advantages which result from political and religious liberty, revere the return of that day, on which they emerged from the horrors of servitude to the blessing.s of Independence." — Diinlap^s American Daily Advertiser. "Among the offerings to the altar of Freedom — we beheld with sincere satisfaction the homage paid by all orders of men to the Military Defender-, and Civil Guardian of his country. Congratulations were offered to thrt President of the United States by the foreign Ministers — the officers of thi- militia, and many respectable citizens. The Society of the Cincinnat. headed by their President [Thomas Mifflin] and Vice President [Thomii ■ McKean] (the Governor and Chief Justice of the State) went in processio.. to pay their respects to the President of the United States." — Idem. WEDNESDAY, JULY 11. Leaves Philadelphia: '-^ July 18. — This day se'nnight the President of the United States and his Lady, left this * On the back of the portrait is the following inscription : " His Excel- lency George Washington Esquire President of the United States, aged 64 — Williams Pinxit ad vivum in Philadelphia, September 18, 179-}.'' f See Baker's " Engraved Portraits of Washington," p. 104. 1792] WASHINGTON AFTER THE BE VOLUTION. 241 city, on a tour to Mount Vernon." — Duiilap's American Daily Advertiser. SUNDAY, JULY 29. At Mount Vernon : " At present all my business public and private is on my own shoulders ; the two young gen- tlemen [Howell Lewis and Bartholomew Dandridge], who came home with me, being on visits to their friends, and my nephew, the Major [George Augustine Washington], too much indisposed to aftbrd me any aid." — Washington to Alexander Hamilton. SUNDAY, AUGUST 5. At Mount Vernon : " Since the date of my last despatch to you of the P' instant, I have received your letters of the 26"" and 30"* ultimo." — Washington to Alexandei' Hamilton. From Alexander Hamilton's Letter. — " I received the most sincere pleas- ure at finding in our last conversation, that there was some relaxation in the disposition you had before discovered to decline a reelection. Since your departure, I have lost no opportunity of sounding the opinions of per- sons, whose opinions were worth knowing, on these two points; first, the effect of your declining upon the public affairs, and upon your own reputa- tion ; secondly, the effect of your continuing, in reference to the declara- tions you have made of your disinclination to public life. And I can truly say, that I have not found the least difference of sentiment on either point. The impression is uniform, that your declining would be to be deplored as the greatest evil that could befall the country at the present juncture, and as critically hazardous to your own reputation ; that your continuance will be justified in the mind of every friend to his country by the evident neces- sity for it. ... I trust, Sir, and I pray God, that you will determine to make a further sacrifice of your tranquility and happiness to the public good. I trust, that it need not continue above a year or two more. And I think, that it will be more eligible to retire from oflSce before the expiration of the term of election, than to decline a reelection." — Philadelphia,, July 30. Thomas Jefferson also, in writing to Washington on the same subject, under date of May 23, said, " The confidence of the whole Union is centred in you. Your being at the helm will be more than an answer to ever}' argument which can be used to alarm and lead the people in any quarter into violence or secession. North and south will hang together, if they have you to hang on ; and, if the first corrective of a numerous representa- 16 242 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1792 tion should fail in its effect, your presence will give time for trying others not inconsistent with the union and peace of the States." SUNDAY, AUGUST 26. At Mount Vernon : " With respect, however, to the in- teresting subject treated in your letter of the 5th instant, I can express but one sentiment at this time, and that is a wish, a devout one, that, whatever my ultimate determina- tion shall be, it may be for the best. The subject never recurs to my mind but with additional poignancy; and, from the declining state of the health of my nephew, to whom my concerns of a domestic and private nature are entrusted, it comes with aggravated force. But as the All- wise Disposer of events has hitherto watched over my steps, I trust, that, in the important one I may soon be called upon to take, he will mark the course so plainly, as that I cannot mistake the way." — Washington to Ednamd Randolph. From Edmund Randolph's Letter. — " Permit me, then, in the fervor of a dutiful and affectionate attachment to you, to heseech you to penetrate the consequences of a dereliction of the reins. The constitution would never have been adopted, hut from a knowledge that you had once sanctioned it, and an expectation that you would execute it. It is in a state of probation. The most inauspicious struggles are past, but the public deliberations need stability. You alone can give them stability. You suffered yourself to yield when the voice of your country summoned you to the administration. Should a civil war arise, you cannot stay at home. And how much easier will it be to disperse the factions, which are rushing to this catastrophe, than to subdue them after they shall appear in arms? It is the fixed opinion of the world, that you surrender nothing incomplete." — Philadel- phia.! August 5. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15. At Mount Vernon : Issues a proclamation respecting the opposition to the excise laws imposing a tax on domestic distilled spirits.* * The proclamation was sent to Thomas Jefferson, at Monticello, for his signature, and then published at Philadelphia, September 27. 1792] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 243 The excise law of the 3d of March, 1791, was extremely offensive to the people in many parts of the country, but especially to the inhabitants of Pennsylvania west of the Alleghany Mountains, whiskey at that time being their most important item of trade. Soon after the publication of the law public meetings were held in the counties of Fayette, Alleghany, West- moreland, and Washington, at which the law was denounced as inimical to the interests of the country, and at a meeting in Pittsburgh, August 21, 1792, resolutions were passed recommending that no intercourse or dealings should be held with any one who had accepted or might accept an oflBce to carry out the provisions of the act ; and that all aid, support, or comfort should be withheld from them. In course of time this movement assumed an organized form, which finally culminated in armed opposition and violence. The proclamation earnestly admonished and exhorted all persons to refrain and desist from combinations to obstruct the operation of the law, " inasmuch as all lawful ways and means will be strictly put in execution for bringing to justice the infractors thereof and securing obedience thereto." MONDAY, OCTOBER 1. At Mount Vernon : " Georgetown^ October 1. — I called at Gunstonhall, the proprietor [George Mason] just recovering from a dreadful attack of the colic. ... I proceeded to Mount Vernon & had a full free & confidential conversation with the President. . . . He declares himself quite unde- cided about retiring, desirous to do so, vet not decided if strong motives against it exist." — Thomas Jefferson to James Madison. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 7. At Mount Vernon : " As Mrs. Washington and myself expect to set out to-morrow for Philadelphia, I have taken advantage of the good opportunity aftbrded by Mr. Robert Lewis of sending Harriot [Washington] to Fredericks- burg." — Washington to Mrs. Betty Lewis. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13. At Philadelphia : " October 15.— The President of the United States, his Lady, and Family, arrived here on Satur- day afternoon [October 13], from Mount Vernon." — Dun- lap's American Daily Advertiser. 244 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1792 " In the year 1790, the Federal Government removed from New York to Philadelphia, for a ten years residence, and to give time to prepare the City uf Washington for a permanent location. I came two years after, with my lather's family, to fix myself for life in Philadelphia. Living in the same town, I had frequent opportunities of seeing the President, and attending his reception days in the morning, and those of Mrs. "Washington in the even- ing : a pleasure of which I availed myself for several years ; and, at the opening of Congress, which the President did in person, I was always a spectator. On these occasions he went in state, drawn in a coach by four horses ; and taking the Vice President's chair in the Senate Chamber, where the House of Eepresentatives was assembled, he read his Speech His suc- cessor, John Adams, followed this custom. But Jefferson, dispensing with personal attendance, sent his speech, in the form of a Message, to both houses ; a mode which has been in use ever since ; and is, no doubt an im- provement, because it has put an end to long and angry speeches in each house, when the answer to the President was under debate. A message re- quiring no answer, that cause of contention, often protracted for days, was happily laid aside. "Washington's stables in Minor Street,* contained some of the finest horses in the Union, both for carriage and saddle. The sixteen stalls were generally filled. He inspected them every morning, and thus insured good grooming and care. Those stables were shown by me to all strangers under my guidance ; being, as I always thought, one of the most attractive sights in the City. I have seen the President in his large white coach start from his door, with six of those splendid horses, driven by a coachman and two postillions, suitably dressed in livery. His rides for health and recreation were very often to Belmont, the country seat of Judge Kichard Peters, who had been his friend and intimate acquaintance during the long war of the Kevolution. The gardens at Belmont, on the right bank of the Schuylkill about five miles from town, are remarkable for their umbrageous and retired walks ; where the Fir-trees, Hemlocs and Pines, cast their deep shades, from trees of one hundred years growth. There it was the great man sought re- laxation from the cares of Government. A tree must still stand in those grounds which he planted with his own hands ; it was pointed out to me by one of the familj-. . . . " Washington's personal presence was majestic. Six feet high and finely proportioned ; no individual of his day was so remarkable for dignity and grace in deportment when in public. At the receptions, his manners were «o engaging and affable, yet exercised with discrimination, that it pleased and contented every one. Sir Eobert Liston, the British Minister, was so surprized, that he said to his friends : ' I have read much about this great 'nan ; but no passage in his history prepared me to see such commanding * A small street extending from Fifth to Sixth Street, directly in the rear of the President's house. 1792] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 245 dignity in person and behavior.' Beloved Man! Can the bosom of an American suppress its pride when your story is told ? Can it calm the glow- ing, — the tender aitection, the heart-felt gratitude, which the recollection of your services awakens ? No, Never ! Never !" * — MS. of Samuel Breck. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6. At Philadelphia : " November 7. — Yesterday the Presi- dent of the United States met both Houses of the National Legislature in the Senate Chamber and delivered his speech." t — Danlap's American Daily Advertiser. Dr. Ashbel Green, chaplain of Congress from November 5, 1792, until the seat of government was removed from Philadelphia to Washington City, has left us in his "Reminiscences" the following description of Washing- ton's manner of delivering his speech at the opening of Congress : " There was more of the indefinable quality called presence in President Washington than any other person I have ever known. In his general manners he was eminently courteous and kind ; and yet to the last, I could never speak to him without feeling a degree of embarrassment such as I have never felt in the presence of any other individual, man or woman, with whom I was well acquainted. In his observance of appointments he was punctiliously exact. After I was chaplain, I believe I was present at all his speeches on the opening of a session of congress ; for the custom of sending a message to congress, which was introduced by Mr. Jefferson, was then unknown. Twelve o'clock at noon, was the usual hour agreed on for bis opening speech, and in no instance did he fail in a punctual attendance at that hour ; indeed, he commonly crossed the threshold of the door where the congress sat, exactly when the clock was striking the hour of twelve. The two houses always assembled to receive him in the senate chamber.J * From a " Sketch of General George Washington," by Samuel Breck, of Philadelphia, forming part of the contents of a manuscript volume entitled " Sketches of Members of the American Philosophical Society personally known to the Writer." The sketches, twenty in number, were written by Mr. Breck in the summer of 18B2. Samuel Breck was born in Boston, July 17, 1771, and died at Philadelphia, September 1, 1862. He was a member of the Pennsylvania Legislature for many years, and a member of Congress 1823-25. f " November 6, 1792. — About noon fifteen guns were fired at corner of Ninth and Market Streets because the President delivered his address to Congress, which met yesterday." — Diary of Jacob Hiltzheimer. X This is an error. On three occasions — November 19, 1794, December 8, 1795, and December 7, 1796 — the President read his speech to Congress in the hall of the House of Representatives. 246 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1792 When he entered, all the members of both houses rose from their seats, and stood up until he had taken his seat, which he did immediately after bowing to his audience. When he was seated, he looked around on the audience for a minute or two, and then took out his spectacles from a common red morocco case, and laid them on his knee, and then took from his side-pocket his written speech. After putting on his spectacles he rose and began his address, which he read closely. He read distinctly and audibly, but in no other respect was his reading excellent. Dr. Witherspoon had heard George the Third deliver one of his speeches to the British parliament, which he said was in the very best style of elocution. This could not be said of the speeches of Washington ; his elocution had no glaring fault, and no high excellence." FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9. At Philadelphia : " November 10. — Yesterday (Friday) the Members of the Senate waited on the President of the United States, at his own house, with an answer to his speech to both Houses of Congress." — Dunlap's American Daily Advertiser. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 11. At Philadelphia : " The mulberry trees may be planted about in clumps, as mentioned in my letter by last post to' the gardener. They are not trimmed, because, as I am in- formed, these trees may be propagated by cuttings from them, and save me the trouble and expense of sending more from this place. With respect to the shrubs from Mr. Bartram's botanical garden, directions at the foot of the list are given so fully, as to render it unnecessary to add anght concerning them in this letter ; but the grapes the gardener must take particular care of, as they are of a very fine kind." — Washington to Anthony Whiting. While Washington was absent from home, discharging the duties of President of the United States, it was his custom to exact from the manager at Mount Vernon, once in each week, a full report of the proceedings on all the farms. These were regularly answered each week by the President, and sometimes oftener. His letters frequently filled two or three sheets closely written. The importance he attached to these letters, and his diligence in preparing them, may be understood from the fact that he first made rough 1792] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 247 drafts, which were copied out by himself in a fair hand before they were sent off. Press copies were then taken, which he preserved. MONDAY, NOVEMBEK 12. At Philadelphia : On this day the Speaker (Jonathan Trumbull), preceded by the Sergeant-at-Arms and attended by the members of the House of Representatives, waited on the President with an answer to his speech to both Houses of Congress. THUESDAY, DECEMBER 13. At Philadelphia : " December 13. — The President called on me to see the model and drawings of some mills for sawing stone. After showing them, he in the course of a subsequent conversation asked me if there was not some good manufactories of porcelain in Germany ; that he was in want of table china, and had been speaking to Mr. Shaw, who was going to the East Indies to bring him a set, but he found that it would not come till he shoiild no longer be in a situation to ivant if. He took occasion a second time to ob- serve that Shaw said it would be two years at least before he could have the china here, before which time he said he should be where he should not want it. I think he asked the question about the manufactories in Germany merely to have an indirect opportunity of telling me he meant to retire, and within the limits of two years." — Jefferson Anas. « 1793- WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 9. At Philadelphia : " January 9. — "With three of my daugh- ters and some of their friends, went on the roof of the small building Southwest corner Ninth and Market Streets and saw Mr. Blanchard take his aerial flight out of the prison yard [Sixth and Walnut Streets]. Cannon fired from daylight to the time of his departure, between ten and eleven o'clock A.M." — Diary of Jacob Hiltzheimer. " January/ 10.— Mr. BLANCHARD, the bold Aeronaut, agreeably to his advertisement, at five minutes past ten o'clock yesterday morning rose with a Baloon from the Prison Court in this city, in presence of an immense concourse of spectators, there assembled on the occasion. ... As soon as the clock had struck 10 everything being punctually ready, Mr. Blanchard took a respectful leave of all the spectators, and received from the hands of the President a paper,* at the same time the President spoke a few words to this bold adventurer, who immediately leap'd into his boat which was painted blue and spangled ; the baloon was of a yellowish color'd-silk highly varnished, over which there was a strong net work — Mr. Blanchard was dressed in a plain blue suit, a cock'd hat and white feathers. . . . " About half after 6 o'clock last evening we were happy to meet Mr. Blanchard again in this city going to pay his respects to the President of the United States. — He informed us, that his aerial voyage ^lasted forty-six min- utes, in which time he ran over a space of more than 15 miles and then de- scended a little to the eastward of Woodbury in the state of New Jersey — where he took a carriage and returned to Cooper's ferry — and was at the President's, as we have already mentioned at half past six o'clock last even- ing." — Dunlap^s American Daily Advertise?: * The paper received from the President was in the nature of an endorse- ment or protection, with a request that the residents of the locality in which Mr. Blanchard might land from his aerial flight would render him such assistance as was in their power. 248 1793] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 249 SATURDAY, JANUAEY 19. At Philadelphia: '-'■ January 1^. — Dined with the Presi- dent of the United States on Market Street, with our Speaker [Gerardus Wynkoop] and eighteen members of the [Pennsylvania] House [of Representatives]. I cannot help remarking the ease and great sociability shown to all by the President." — Diary of Jacob Hiltzheimer. SUNDAY, JANUARY 20. At Philadelphia : " I have been favored with your letter of the 6th instant, congratulatory on my reelection to the chair of government. A mind must be insensible indeed, not to be gratefully impressed by so distinguished and hon- orable a testimony of public approbation and confidence; and as I suffered my name to be contemplated on this occasion, it is more than probable that I should, for a mo- ment, have experienced chagrin, if my reelection had not been by a pretty respectable vote. But to say I feel pleas- ure from the prospect of commencing another tour of duty would be a departure from truth," — Washington to Henry Lee. At the second election for President and Vice-President under the Consti- tution, fifteen States chose electors, Vermont and Kentucky having been admitted into the Union, — the former on March 4, 1791, and the latter on June 1, 1792. Washington received one hundred and thirty-two votes, the full vote of the college. John Adams, having received the second highest number of votes (seventy seven), was declared to be Vice-President. THURSDAY, JANUARY 31. At Philadelphia : " If I had words that could convey to you an adequate idea of my feelings on the present situation of the Marquis de Lafayette, this letter would appear to you in a different garb. The sole object in writing to you now is, to inform you that I have deposited in the hands of Mr. Mcholas Van Staphorst, of Amsterdam, two thousand three hundred and ten guilders, Holland currency, equal to two hundred guineas, subject to your orders. 250 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1793 " This sum is, I am certain, the least I am indebted for services rendered to me by the Marquis de Lafayette, of which I never yet have received the account." — Washington to the Marchioness de Lafayette. The Marquis de Lafayette, who on the declaration of war by France against Austria (April 20, 1792) was in command of the Army of the Centre, fifty-two thousand strong, was at his camp at Maubeuge at the time of the insurrection of June 20, 1792. Having denounced the dangerous policy of the Jacobins, and refusing, after the revolution of August 10, to obey the orders of the Assembly, he was removed from the command and his impeachment decided upon. He fled into Belgium, was taken prisoner by the Austrians, and handed over by them to the Prussians, by whom he was imprisoned first at Wesel, and afterward (March, 1793) at Magde- burg. The marchioness was retained a prisoner at Paris, but was subse- quently permitted to live on the family estate in Auvergne (Chavaniac), under the responsibility of the municipality of the village. After a year's incarceration at Magdeburg, Lafayette was transferred to Austria (May, 1794) for safe-keeping, and passed three years and more in a loathsome dungeon at Olmutz, where he was treated with barbarous cru- elty. With much diflSculty, his wife and two daughters, Anastasie and Virginia, got permission in October, 1796, to share his captivity. Much sympathy was felt for him in the United States and in England. In Par- liament, Fox, Wilberforce, and Sheridan were active in his behalf, and Washington wrote (May 15, 1796) to the emperor, Francis II., asking that he might be allowed to come on parole to the United States. He was at length set free, September 19, 1797, by the victories of Bonaparte. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15. At Philadelphia : Is waited upon by a joint committee of both Houses of Congress and notitied of his unanimous re- election to the office of President of the United States. The committee was composed of Rufus King, of New York ; Ralph Izard, of South Carolina ; and Caleb Strong, of Massachusetts, on the part of the Senate; and William Smith, of South Carolina; James Madison, of Virginia ; and John Lawrence, of New York, on the part of the House of Representatives. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22. At Philadelphia: '■'' February 23. — Yesterday (February 22) being the Anniversary of the Birth-Day of our beloved 1793] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 251 fellow citizen, George Washington, President of the United States of America, who was born on the lltli of February 1732, old stile : Gapt. Fisher's volunteer company of Artil- lery & three companies of Light Infantry, paraded at the State house, from whence they marched to the Artillery ground, and proceeded to the corner of IS'inth and Market streets where they fired 15 rounds, and gave three cheers ; afterwards, they marched down Market street, and gave a salute as they passed the President's house ; from whence proceeding down Market to Third street, they returned to the State House." — Dunlap's American Daily Advertiser. "All the shipping in the Harbour had their colours hoisted out, and the bells of Christ church rang peals every half hour, during the day. Most of the Members of both houses of Congress, and many hundreds of respectable citizens, waited on the President, to pay him a visit of personal respect, & otfer their sincere congratulations on the occasion. Indeed every possible testimony of joy was expressed throughout the city of Philadelphia ; and the beauty of the weather added greatly to the scene, by seeming to welcome the day on which our trusty Patriot, Victorious Gen- eral, and excellent Chief Magistrate, entered his Sixty Second Year. In the evening there was an elegant ball at Oeller's Hotel ; and in many other places the day was closed with conviviality and heart-felt rejoicings. " Disclaiming as we do, all pretensions to adulation, it was impossible for us, it is impossible for any American, or perhaps for the people of any nation upon earth, to refrain from expressing a degree of satisfaction at the return of every revolving year that prolongs the life of a man, whose vir- tues have raised him to the very highest pitch of esteem. " ' Oft as this auspicious day. Sacred to mem'ry, shall return, Let Freedom pour the grateful lay. And haughty Tyrants mourn !' "—Idem. MONDAY, MAKCH 4. At Philadelphia : " March 5. — Yesterday, our beloved and venerable George Washington, came to the Senate Cham- ber of Congress, and took the usual oath of office, which was administered to him by Judge Cushing, at noon, in presence of an immense concourse of his fellow citizens, members of both Houses of the United States, Legislature, 252 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1793 and several foreign ministers, consuls, &c. — There was like- wise an assemblage of ladies, attending on this solemn oc- casion, and the day was extremely serene ; for. Providence has always smiled on the day of this man, and on the glorious cause which he has ever espoused, of Liberty and Equality. " After taking the oath, the President retired, as he hud come, without pomp or ceremony ; but on his departure from the House, the people could no longer refrain obeying the genuine dictates of their hearts, and they saluted him with three cheers." — Danlap's American Daily Advertiser. " March 5, 1793. — I was present yesterday at the ceremony of adminis- tering the oath of office to Mr. Washington on his re-election for the next four years as President of the United States. It was administered by one of the Judges of the Supreme Court in the Senate Chamber, in the presence of the Senators and as many individuals as could be crowded into the room. The President first made a short speech, expressive of his sense of the high honour conferred on him by his re-election. There was nothing particular in the ceremony itself. . . . " There was one thing, which I observed yesterday in the Senate Cham- ber, which, if not accidental, will serve to mark the character of the people, though it was trifling in itself. The portraits of the King and Queen of France, which were presented, I believe during the war, were covered with a curtain, a circumstance which was not the case most certainly when I have been there on former occasions. Alas ! poor Louis ! " ' Deserted at his utmost need By those his former bounty fed !' "The French, those murderous imitators will, I fear, supply the rest of this passage, and in the very spirit, too, which actuated the assassins of the unfortunate Darius. I don't know whether I mentioned to you formerly that the key of the Bastile, given to a certain great man here by La Fay- ette, is hung up in a glass frame in the principal room of the great man's house, with an engraving of Louis XVI., le patriote Roi des Fi-an^als, op- posite to it. In the drawing-room of Mr. .Jefferson there are three busts, — of Franklin, Paul Jones, and La Fayette, three gentlemen, the first of whom had talents without virtue, the second deserved hanging, and the last, not improbably, may meet with that fate. The French principles are gain- ing ground fast in this country ; you will have heard of their rejoicings at the late successes of the French ; you will have heard of the attacks upon the President himself for his levees and other appendages of ^nonarchy and 1793] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 253 aristocracy ; the name of 'citizen' is bandied about, and in the course of last month a motion was made in the House of Kepresentatives, in the very- spirit of Cromwell and democracy, that the mace of that House should be broken up as a useless bauble, and the silver, of which part of it is com- posed, sent to the public mint. The mace is somewhat in the form of the ancient Roman Fasces ; it consists of thirteen arrows bound together, and an eagle on the top." — Edward Thornton to Sir James Bland Bulges, Bart. SATURDAY, MARCH 23. At Philadelphia : " If it can be esteemed a happiness to live in an age productive of great and interesting events, we of the present age are very highly favored. The ra- pidity of national revolutions appears no less astonishing, than their magnitude. In what they will terminate is known only to the Great Ruler of events ; and, confiding in his wisdom and goodness, we may safely trust the issue to him, without perplexing ourselves to seek for that, which is beyond human ken; only taking care to perform the parts assigned to us, in a way that reason and our own consciences approve." — Washington to David Humphreys. SUNDAY, MARCH 24. At Philadelphia : " I shall leave this on Wednesday next, so as to be at Georgetown on the Monday following (the first of April) ; and if not detained there by business, shall be at Mount Vernon the day after. I shall take Osborne and the two postillions with me, and eight horses." — Washington to Anthony Whiting. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27. Leaves Philadelphia: ^^ April 1. — The President of the United States left town last Wednesday afternoon [March 27], on a visit to Mount Vernon." — Dunlap's American Daily Advertiser. TUESDAY, APRIL 9. At Mount Vernon : " On Thursday next [April 11] at one o'clock, I mean to pay the last respect to the remains 254 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1793 of my deceased Nephew — by having the funeral obsequies performed. . . . The funeral will be in the presence of a few friends only." — Washington to David Stuart. The nephew whose death is referred to was Major George Augustine Washington, son of the President's brother Charles, who had been living at Mount Vernon since 1784, and had taken charge of the estate as manager in April, 1789. His health had been failing for some time from a pul- monary affection. Major Washington served in the Kevolution as an aide to General Lafayette in his Virginia campaign. FRIDAY, APRIL 12. At Mount Vernon : " War having actually commenced between France and Great Britain, it behoves the govern- ment of this country to use every means in its power to prevent the citizens thereof from embroiling us with either of those powers, by endeavouring to maintain a strict neu- trality. I therefore require, that you will give the subject mature consideration, that such measures as shall be deemed most likely to effect this desirable purpose may be adopted without delay; for I have understood, that vessels are already designated as privateers, and are preparing ac- cordingly. ... I shall set out to-morrow [for Philadelphia] but will leave it to the advices, which I may receive to-night by the post, to determine whether it is to be by the most direct route, or by the one I proposed to come, that is, by Reading &c.'"' — Washington to Thomas Jefferson. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17. At Philadelphia : " April 19. — The President of the United States arrived in town, from his southern tour last Wednesday [April 17] in good health." — Dunlap's American Daily Advertiser, " My visit to Mount Vernon, intended to be short when I set out, was curtailed by the declaration of war by France against Great Britain and Holland; for I foresaw, in the moment information of that event came to me at that place, the necessity for announcing the disposition of this coun- try towards the belligerent powers, and the propriety of restraining, as far 1793] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 255 as a proclamation would do it, our citizens from taking part in the contest." — Washington to Henry Lee, May 6. FKIDAY, APKIL 19. At Philadelphia : A Cabinet meeting at the President's house. Present, Thomas Jeftersou, Alexander Hamilton, General Knox, and Edmund Randolph, Attorney-General. It was agreed unanimously, " That a proclamation shall issue forbidding our citizens to take part in any hostilities on the seas, with or against any of the belligerent powers ; and warning them against carrying to any such powers any of those articles deemed contraband, according to the modern usage of nations ; and enjoining them from all acts and proceedings inconsistent with the duties of a friendly nation towards those at war." It was also unanimously agreed that a minister from the Republic of France should be received. MONDAY, APRIL 22. At Philadelphia : Issues a proclamation, reciting " that a state of war exists between Austria, Prussia, Sardinia, Great Britain, and the United Netherlands, on the one part, and France on the other ; and the duty and interest of the United States require, that they should with sincerity and good faith adopt and pursue a conduct friendly and impar- tial towards the belligerent powers ; " I have therefore thought fit by these presents to declare the disposition of the United States to observe the conduct aforesaid towards those powers respectively, and to exhort and warn the citizens of the United States carefully to avoid all acts and proceedings whatsoever, which may in any manner tend to contravene such disposition," etc. The proclamation of neutrality may be considered, in regard to its char- acter and consequences, one of the most important measures of Washington's administration. It was the commencement of that system to which the American government afterward inflexibly adhered, and to which much of the national prosperity is to be ascribed. But this act, founded on the 256 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1793 clearest principles of justice and policy, was at variance with the prejudices, the feelings, and the passions of a large portion of the citizens, blinded for the time by their partiality for republican France and antipathy for their ancient enemy. It also presented the first occasion which was thought a fit one for openly assaulting a character around which the affections of the people had thrown an armor heretofore deemed sacred, and for directly criminating the conduct of the President himself. It was stigmatized as a royal edict, an unwarrantable and daring assumption of executive power, and an open manifestation by the President and his political friends of partiality for England and hostility to Prance. Washington saw that a deadly blow was aimed at his influence and his administration, and that both were at hazard ; but he was convinced that neutrality was the true national policy, and he resolved to maintain it whatever might be his immediate loss of popular favor. Under date of July 21 he wrote to Henry Lee, " But in what will this abuse terminate? For the result, as it respects myself, I care not ; for I have a consolation within, that no earthly efforts can deprive me of, and that is, that neither ambitious nor interested motives have influenced my conduct. The arrows of malevolence, therefore, however barbed and well pointed, never can reach the most vulnerable part of me; though, whilst I am up as a mark, they will be continually aimed. The public^ations in Freneau's and Bache's papers * are outrages on common decency ; and they progress in that style, in proportion as their pieces are treated with contempt, and are passed by in silence, by those at whom they are aimed." WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24. At Philadelphia: '■'■April 24. — After dinner Mr. and Mrs. Barge and my three daughters went to Eickett's circus [Market and Twelfth Streets]. General Washington and family were present." — Diary of Jacob Hiltzheimer. " April 30. — Took two men down to the meadow [below the city] to re- pair fence and gate-posts, and while there President Washington came to see his mare [on pasture] . ' ' — Diary of Ja^ob Hiltzheimer. SUNDAY, MAY 5. At Philadelphia : " In the conversation you may have with a certain gentleman [Viscount de Noailles] to-day, I pray you to intimate to him gently and delicately, that, if the letters or papers, which he has to present, are, know- * The National Gazette and The Aurora. 1793] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 257 ingly to him, of a nature which relates to public matters, and not particularly addressed to me, or if he has any verbal communications to make of a similar kind, I had rather they should come through the proper channel. Add thereto, generally, that the peculiar situation of European affairs at this moment, my good wishes for his nation aggregately, my regard for those of it in particular, with whom I have had the honor of an acquaintance, my anxious desire to keep this country in peace, and the delicacy of my situation, render a circumspect conduct indispensably necessary on my part." — Washington to Alexander Hamilton. The Viscount de Noailles, who married a sister of the Marchioness de Lafayette, had served with distinction in the United States during the Kev- olution, and at Yorktown was appointed, in conjunction with Colonel John Laurens, to arrange with Lord Cornwallis the details of the capitulation. Having engaged with enthusiasm in the early movements of the French Kevolution, and acted a conspicuous part, he at length found himself in a proscribed party, and was obliged to flee from his country to escape the rage of the contending factions. He passed by way of England to this country, and arrived at Philadelphia on May 3, 1793. The President exer- cised much caution in receiving any of the French refugees, as is indicated by the above-quoted letter, and De Noailles with others never saw him but in public. Louis Marie, Viscount de Noailles, resided for some time in Philadelphia. He died at Havana, Cuba, January 9, 1804. FKIDAY, MAY 17. At Philadelphia : Receives an address from the mer- chants and traders of Philadelphia, expressing the high sense they entertained of the wisdom and goodness which dictated the late proclamation of neutrality, and their deter- mination to pay the strictest regard to it. To this address, which was signed by about three hundred of the princi- pal merchants and traders of the city of Philadelphia, the President made the following reply : " Fully persuaded that the happiness and best interests of the people of the United States will be promoted by observing a strict neutrality in the present contest among the powers of Europe, it gives me pleasure to learn that the measures which I have taken to declare to the world, their disposition on this head, has given general satisfaction to the citizens of Pennsylvania, The friends of humanity will deprecate war 1.- I 258 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1793 wherever it may appear : and we have experienced enough of its evils in this country, to know, that it should not be wantonly or unnecessarily en- tered upon. I trust, therefore, that the good citizens of the United States will shew to the world, that they have as much wisdom in jireserving peace at this critical juncture as they have heretofore displayed valour in defend- ing their just rights." SATUKDAY, MAY 18. At Philadelphia: '•''May 20. — Last Saturday afternoon [May 18] at two o'clock Mr. Genet, being introduced by Mr. Jefterson, Secretary of State, produced his credentials to the President; he was received and acknowledged as Minister Plenipotentiary from the Republic of France to the United States of America." — Dunlap's American Daily Advertiser. Edmund Charles Genet, " Citizen Genet," who succeeded M. Ternant as minister from France to the United States, arrived at Charleston, South Carolina, in the French frigate " L'Embuscade," April 8, 1793, and was received with open arms by the citizens. Bearing secret instructions to foment a war between this country and Great Britain, he began at once to fit out privateers to prey on British commerce, and gave authority to every French consul in America to constitute a Court of Admiralty to dispose of prizes brought into American ports by French cruisers. Genet travelled by land to Philadelphia, where, as well as on his route, his reception was of the most enthusiastic character; and although momentarily subdued by the calmness and dignity of the President, when presenting his credentials, he soon resumed his former attitude, and continued his violation of the sov- ereignty of the United States by commissioning privateers. "When re- minded of this offence by the Secretary of State, Genet denied the doctrine of neutrality as contrary to right, justice, and the laws of nations, and threatened to appeal from the President to the people, and actually under- took in July to fit out a privateer at Philadelphia in defiance of the govern- ment. It was a vessel captured by "L'Embuscade," the "Little Sarah," named by him " Le Petit Democrat." Matters having thus reached a point where forbearance toward the insolent French minister was no longer required by the most exacting courtesy, the President called the Cabinet .together on the first day of August, when it was decided that the French government should be requested to recall its minister, because he was offensive to that of the United States. This was acceded to, and M. Fauchet was appointed in his place, who arrived in February, 1794. Mr. Genet did not return to France, and, marrying the daughter of Governor George Clinton, became a naturalized citizen of the United States. He was twice 1793] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 259 married, his second wife being a daughter of Samuel Osgood, the first Postmaster-General under the Constitution. MONDAY, JUNE 24. Leaves Philadelphia: '•'•June 25. — Yesterday the Presi- dent of the United States left this city on a visit to his seat in Mount Vernon." — Dunlap's American Daily Advertiser. SUNDAY, JUNE 30. At Mount Vernon : *' I expect to return to the seat of government about the 10th of next month." — Washington to Thomas Jefferson. MONDAY, JULY 1. At Mount Vernon : " The very polite invitation which you have given me, in the name of the citizens of Alexan- dria, to celebrate with them the approaching anniversary of American Independence, is received by me as a mark of attention meriting my warmest thanks; and as the best proof I can give of my feelings on the occasion will be to accept the invitation, I shall accordingly have the pleasure of meeting them at Alexandria on the 4th inst." — Washing- ton to the Committee on Celebration. THUKSDAY, JULY 4. At Alexandria: Participates in the celebration of the day, and dines with the citizens of Alexandria. '■^Alexandria, July 11. — On a signal-gun from the camp of captain Han- nah, the day was ushered in by 15 rounds from two 12 pounders under the direction of Mr. Isaac Roberdeau — these were returned by 15 from the camp. At noon 15 from a six-pounder, commanded by captain Hannah, were answered by 15 from the 12 pounders. Then divine service began in the Protestant Episcopal Church, where the President of the United States attended, and a discourse suited to the occasion was delivered by the Rev. Mr. Davis. "At 3 o'clock the company, to the number of one hundred and ten, sat down to an elegant dinner in Mr. "Wise's long room. . . . The President gave the toast ' Prosperity to the town of Alexandria ; ' and, after drinking the health of the company, retired. . . . 260 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1793 "Words cannot express the happiness of the company; which was in- creased by beholding the pleasure that beamed on the countenance of their illustrious and revered neighbour. His extraordinary talents and virtues had contributed, in a signal manner, to the attainment of that blessing which they were now assembled to commemorate. Him, therefore tht^y could not but contemplate, in some sort, as the Father of the Feast — ' The feast of Reason and the flow of Soul.' " — Dimlap's American Daily Adver- tiser, July 18. THURSDAY, JULY 11. At Philadelphia: '■'■July 12. — Yesterday forenoon the President of the United States arrived in town from the Southward." — Dimlap's American Daily Advertiser. " My journey to and from Mount Vernon, was rapid, and as short as I could make it. It was occasioned by the unexpected death of Mr. Whiting, my manager, at a critical season for the business with which he was in- trusted." * — Washington to Henry Lee, July 21. SATURDAY, JULY 13. At Philadelphia : " July 13. — Went to see Mr. Ricketts ride, and saw there the President and his lady." — Diary of Jacob Hiltzheimer. " Jtdy 16. — The benefit to the poor, last Saturday [July 13], by Mr. Ricketts, produced 430 dollars, which is intended as a beginning for estab- lishing a Fund, to be placed in the hands of the Corporation, for the pur- pose of laying in Fire- Wood, to be distributed in the winter to such poor families as may require it.f The appearance of the President of the United States, with his family, amongst his fellow-citizens, always adds to the satisfaction we receive from those innocent public amusements, and it was rendered particularly agreeable by a handsome compliment, very genteely * Anthony Whiting died in the early part of June. He was succeeded as manager of the Mount Vernon farms by William Pearce, who took charge in October. f The amount realized on this occasion, with an additional sum of two hundred and one dollars derived from a performance of a like character by Mr. Ricketts, on the 19th of May, 1796, now forms, together with other donations, what is known as the City Fuel Fund of six thousand seven hundred dollars principal, the interest of which is used for supplying the deserving poor with coul during the winter. 1793] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 261 tho' indirectly, paid by Mr. Eicketts, who being obliged in the middle of the performance to drink a glass of wine, was required by one of his peo- ple to give a toast ; He instantly drank oflF a bumper to the health of The Man of the People. This operated like electricity, in producing a general clap of applause, accompanied by a huzza from every part of the Circus." — Dunlap^s American Daily Advertiser. SUNDAY, JULY 21. At Philadelphia : " I should have thanked you at an earlier period for your obliging letter of the 14th ultimo, had it not come to my hands a day or two only before I set out for Mount Vernon, and at a time when I was much hurried, and indeed, very much perplexed with the dis- putes, memorials, and what not, with which the government were pestered by one or the other of the petulant repre- sentatives of the powers at war, and because, since my return to this city, nine days ago, I have been more than ever overwhelmed with their complaints. In a word, the trouble they give is hardly to be described." — Washington to Henry Lee. MONDAY, JULY 29. At Philadelphia : " July 31. — Died on Sunday last [July 28], after a short but severe illness, universally lamented, Mrs. Mary Lear — the amiable and accomplished wife of Tobias Lear, Esq. Secretary to the President of the United States — and on Monday her Funeral was attended by a train of unaffected mourners, to Christ Church burying ground, where her remains were entombed ! " Youth, Beauty, Virtue, Loveliness and Grace, in vain would soothe ' the dull cold ear of Death.' " — Dunhp's American Daily Advertiser. " July 30. — We have lately had a very affecting death in this city. Mrs. Lear, the wife of Mr. Lear, the President's Secretary, died on Sunday last, after a short but very severe illness. She was only 23, and beloved and re- spected by all who knew her, and she and her husband had been fond of each other from infancy. He attended the funeral himself, and so did the President and Mrs. "Washington. Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Jefferson, General 262 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1793 Knox, Judge "Wilson, Judge Peters, and myself were pall-bearers." — James Iredell* to Mrs. Tredwell. THUKSDAY, AUGUST 1. At Philadelphia : A Cabinet meeting to take into con- sideration the conduct of M. Genet, and what course should be pursued in reference thereto. It was unanimously agreed that a full statement of his actions should be made in a letter to Gouverneur Morris (minister to France), that in the letter his recall should be required, and that his cor- respondence with the Secretary of State should be com- municated through Mr. Morris to the Executive Council of France. It was also taken into consideration whether a publication of the whole correspondence and a statement of the proceedings should not be made by way of appeal to the people. The meeting adjourned without coming to any conclusion on the latter proposition. Aiigust 2. — An adjourned meeting of the Cabinet. On the question of the appeal to the people coming up, Mr. Jefferson, after referring to the dis- cussion thereon, and giving his reasons for opposing such action, makes the following statement in his Anas: "The President manifestly inclined to the appeal to the people. Knox, in a foolish incoherent sort of a speech, introduced the pasquinade lately printed, called the funeral of George W n, and James W n [Judge Wilson, of the Supreme Court], King and Judge, &c., where the President was placed on a guillotine. The President was much inflamed ; got into one of those passions when he cannot command himself; ran on much on the personal abuse which had been bestowed on him ; defied any man on earth to produce one single act of his since he had been in the government which was not done on the purest motives ; that he had never repented but once the having slipped the moment of resigning his office, and that was every moment since ; that bi/ God he had rather be in his grave than in his present situation ; that he had rather be on his farm than to be made E-tnperor of the world ; and yet that they were charging him with wanting to be a King. That that rascal Freneau sent him three of his papers every day, as if he thought he would become the distributor of his papers ; that he could see in this nothing but an impudent design to insult him : he ended in this high tone. There was * Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from Feb- ruary 10, 1790, until his death, October 20, 1799. 1793] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 263 a pause. Some difficulty in resuming our question ; it was, however, after a little while, presented again, and he said there seemed to be no necessity for deciding ii now ; the propositions before agreed on might be put into a train of execution, and perhaps events would show whether the appeal would be necessary or not. ' ' MONDAY, AUGUST 26. At Philadelphia : " I expect to be at Mount Vernon about the 20th of next Month for a stay of 8 or 10 days." — Washington to William Pearce. MONDAY, SEPTEMBEK 9. At Philadelphia : "I think it would not be prudent either for you, or the clerks in your office, or the office itself, to be too much exposed to the malignant fever, which, by well authenticated report, is spreading through the city. The means to avoid it, your own judgment under existing circumstances must dictate." — Washington to Henry Knox. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10. Leaves Philadelphia: '■'■September 11. — Yesterday morning the President of the United States set off from this city for Mount Vernon." — Dunlap's American Daily Advertiser. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14. At Mount Vernon : ""We remained in Philadelphia until the 10th instant. — It was my wish to have continued there longer ; but as Mrs. Washington was unwilling to leave me surrounded by the malignant fever which prevailed, I could not think of hazarding her, and the Children any longer by my continuance in the City, the house in which we lived being, in a manner blockaded, by the disorder, and was be- coming every day more and more fatal ; I therefore came off with them on the above day and arrived at this place the 14th, without incountering the least accident on the road." — Washington to Tobias Lear, September 25. 264 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. ' [1793 WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBEK 18. At Washington City : Takes part as a Mason in the cere- monies of laying the corner-stone of the Capitol of the United States. The stone was laid at the southeast corner of the edifice. "The President of the United States, the Grand Master P. T. and the Worshipful Master of [Alexandria Lodge] No. 22 taking their stand to the east of a large stone, and all the Craft forming a circle westward, stood a short time in awful order. The artillery discharged. The Grand Marshal delivered the commissioners [Thomas Johnson, David Stuart, and Daniel Carroll] a large silver plate with an inscription thereon, which the com- missioners ordered to be read, and was as follows : "'This Southeast corner-stone of the Capitol of the United States of America, in the City of Washington, was laid on the 18th day of Septem- ber, 1793, in the thirteenth year of American independence, in the first year of the second term of the presidency of George Washington, whose virtues in the civil administration of his country have been as conspicu- ous and beneficial, as his military valor and prudence have been useful in establishing her liberties, and in the year of Masonry, 5793, by the Presi- dent of the United States, in concert with the Grand Lodge of Maryland, several lodges under its jurisdiction, and Lodge No. 22 from Alexandria, Virginia.' "The artillery discharged a volley. The plate was then delivered to the President, who, attended by the Grand Master P. T. and three most Wor- shipful Masters, descended to the cavazion trench and deposed the plate, and laid it on the corner-stone of the Capitol of the United States of Amer- ica, on which was deposed Corn, Wine, and Oil, when the whole congrega- tion joined in reverential prayer, which was succeeded by Masonic chanting honors, and a volley from the artillery. The President of the United States and his attendant brethren ascended from the cavazion to the east of the corner-stone; and there the Grand Master P. T., elevated on a triple ros- trum, delivered an oration fitting the occasion, which was received with brotherly love and commendation. At intervals, during the delivery of the oration, several vollej-s were discharged by the artillery. The ceremony ended in prayer. Masonic chanting honors, and a 15-volley from the artillery. " The whole company retired to an extensive booth, where an ox of 500 lbs. weight was barbecued, of which the company generally partook, with every abundance of other recreation. The festival concluded with fifteen successive volleys from the artillery, whose military discipline and manoeu- vres merit every commendation. Before dark the whole company departed with joyful hopes of the production of their labor." — Georgetoivii, Septem- ber 21, 1793. 1793] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 265 MONDAY, SEPTEMBEK 30. At Mount Vernon : " The continuation and spreading of the malignant fever, with which the city of Philadelphia is visited, together with the absence of the heads of depart- ments therefrom, will prolong my abode at this place until about the 25th of October ; at or about which time, I shall myself, if the then state of things should render it improper for me to take my family, set out for that city, or the vi- cinity, say Germantown." — Washington to Edmund Ran- dolph. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6. At Mount Vernon : " It appearing to me that the public business will require the executive of&cers to be together sometime before the meeting of Congress, I have written to the Secretaries of the Treasury and War to meet me at Philadelphia or vicinity, say Germantown, by the first of i^ovember, and should be glad to see you there at the same time." — Washington to Thomas Jefferson. MONDAY, OCTOBER 14. At Mount Vernon : " The accounts from the city [of Philadelphia] are really afiecting. Two gentlemen now here from New York (Colonels Piatt and Sergeant) say, that they were told at the Swedes' Ford of Schuylkill, by a person who had it from the Governor (Mifflin), that, by an official report from the mayor of the city [Matthew Clark- son], upwards of three thousand and five hundred had died, and the disorder was raging more violently than ever." — Washington to James Madison. The yellow fever of 1793, the spread of which was due to the neglect of sanitary precautions in its early stages, was most disastrous in its conse- quences. The fever first made its appearance in a lodging-house in the eastern part of the city in July, but it was not until the middle of August that its progress began to attract attention, and about the 25th of the month a general exodus of the population commenced. The epidemic lasted from 266 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1793 the 1st of August to the 9th of November, during which period the number of deaths was over four thousand. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23. At Mount Vernon : "I shall set out, so as to be in Ger- mantown or thereabouts on the Ist of November, if no dif- ficulties should be encountered on the road. ... It is not in my power to despatch a servant before me. I shall have but two, neither of whom can be spared for such a purpose. These, with five horses, Mr. Dandridge, and myself, form the total of my family and equipage." — Washington to Ed- mund Randolph. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27. At Mount Vernon : " Tomorrow I leave this for Phila- delp* or the vicinity of it ; where, when you have occasion to write to me, direct your letters." — Washington to William Pearce. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1. At Germantown : " Germantown, November 2. — I over- took the President at Baltimore, and we arrived here yes- terday. . . . The fever in Philadelphia has so much abated as to have almost disappeared. The inhabitants are about returning." Thomas Jefferson to James Madison. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3. At Germantown : " I will mention a proverb to you which you will find worthy of attention all the days of your life ; under any circumstances, or in any situation you may happen to be placed ; — and that is, to put nothing ofi" 'till the Morrow, that you can do to day." — Washington to Howell Lewis. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 6. At Germantown : Receives a communication from Henry Hill and others, Trustees of " The Public School at Ger- 1793] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 267 mantown," tendering the school buildings for the accom- modation of Congress should it convene at that place. "The Public School at Germantown," incorporated in 1784, was on the south side of School Lane, a short distance west of the main street. The building, erected in 1760-61 is still standing and used for its original pur- poses. It is now known as the Germantown Academy^ and is in good repute as an educational institution. The plan of education embraces all the studies necessary to prepare young men to enter the sophomore class at col- lege. Congress did not accept the offer of the Trustees, but convened at Philadelphia on Monday, December 2, all danger from the yellow fever having by that time been dispelled. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24. At Germantown : " The malady with which Philadelphia has been sorely afflicted, has, it is said, entirely ceased ; — and all the Citizens are returning to their old habitations again. — I took a house in this town when I first arrived here, and shall retain it until Congress get themselves fixed ; * although I spend part of my time in the city." — Washington to Colonel Burgess Ball. The house in Germantown at which the President lived in the month of November, 1793, f is still standing, on the west side of the main street, now known as Germantown Avenue, in the Twenty-second "Ward of the city of Philadelphia, and about six miles northwest of Independence Hall. The house — a substantial stone structure about forty feet square, with consid- erable back buildings, and numbered 5442 — is directly opposite Mill Street (formerly Church Lane), and faces an open area which until recent years was known as Market Square. It was erected in 1772, and at the time of its being occupied by Washington was owned by Colonel Isaac Franks, of * " Germantotvn, November 27. — The President will be established [in Philadelphia] in about a week, at which time Congress is to meet." — Thomas Jefferson to Mr. Pinckney. •}• In Rupp's History of Berks County, Pennsylvania, it is stated that General Washington stayed all night, the 13th of November, 1793, at Womelsdorf (fourteen miles west of Reading), and that the inhabitants delivered him an address, which he answered. " A company of volunteers assembled, and amidst repeated firing of guns, near the door of the house in which he lodged, exclaimed, ' Lang lebe George Washington ! Lang lebe George Washington 1 !' " 268 WASHIXGTOX AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1793 the Army of the Revolution. It i? now owned and occupied by Elliston Perot Morris, a great-grandson of Samuel Morris, captain of the First City Troop, 1776-86. Mr. Morris is the fortunate owner of the letter written by General Washington to Captain Morris, dated Morristown, January 23, 1777, in which he thanks the "Captain and Gentlemen"' of the Troop for the many essential services which they had rendered to their country and to him personally during the course of the campaign which ended at Princeton on January 3. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3. At Philadelphia : Addresses both Houses of Congress in the Senate Chamber. " Exactly at 12 o'clock the Presi- dent arrived, accompanied by the Secretary of State, the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary at War, and the Attorney General &c and in the presence of a large assem- blage of citizens and foreigners delivered to both Houses his address." * The state of affairs, both external and internal, was largely explained in the President's speech and in a separate message accompanied with many documents. In these were comprised the reasons for the course he had pursued respecting foreign powers, and suggestions for additional legislative enactments to protect the rights of American citizens and maintain the dignity of the country. It was in allusion to these communications to Congress that Mr. Fox made the following remarks in the British Parlia- ment, January 31, 1794: "And here, Sir, I cannot help alluding to the President of the United States, General Washington, a character whose conduct has been so different from that which has been pursued by the ministers of this country. How infinitely wiser must appear the spirit and principles manifested in his late address to Congress, than the policy of modern European courts ! Illustrious man, deriving honor less from the splendor of his situation than from the dignity of his mind ; before whom all borrowed greatness sinks into insignificance, and all the potentates of Europe (excepting the members of our own royal family) become little and contemptible ! He has had no occasion to have recourse to any tricks of policy or arts of alarm ; his authority has been sufficiently supported by the same means by which it was acquired, and his conduct has uniformly been characterized by wisdom, moderation, and firmness. Feeling grati- tude to France for the assistance received from her in that great contest, which secured the independence of America, he did not choose to give up the system of neutrality. Having once laid down that line of conduct, * Dunlap's American Daily Advertiser, December 4. 1793] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 269 which both gratitude and policy pointed out as most proper to be pursued, not all the insults and provocation of the French minister Genet could turn him from his purpose. Intrusted with the welfare of a great people, he did not allow the misconduct of another, with respect to himself, for one moment to withdraw his attention from their interest. He had no fear of the Jacobins, he felt no alarm from their principles, and considered no pre- caution as necessary in order to stop their progress." SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7. At Philadelphia : Receives from the House of Repre- sentatives, through the committee, Messrs. Madison, Sedgwick, and Hartley, an answer to his address of De- cember 3. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10. At Philadelphia : Is waited on by the Senate, and the "Vice-President, in its name, presents him with au answer to his address. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12. At Philadelphia : " All my landed property, east of the Apalachian mountains, is under Rent, except the estate called Mount Vernon. This, hitherto, I have kept in my own hands : but from my present situation, from my ad- vanced time of life, from a wish to live free from care, and as much at my ease as possible, during the remainder of it, and from other causes, which are not necessary to detail, I have, latterly, entertained serious thoughts of letting this estate also, reserving the mansion-house farm for my own residence, occupation, and amusement in agriculture; pro- vided I can obtain what, in my own judgment, and in the opinion of others whom I have consulted, the low rent which I shall mention hereafter ; and provided also I can settle it with good farmers." — Washington to Arthur Young. Extract from tlie above-quoted letter: "No estate in United America is more pleasantly situated than this. It lies in a high, dry and healthy coun- try, 300 miles by water from the sea, and, as you will see by the plan, on one of the finest rivers in the world. Its margin is washed by more than 270 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1793 ten miles of tide-water ; from the bed of which and the innumerable coves, inlets, and small marshes, with which it abounds, an inexaustible fund of rich mud may be drawn, as a manure, either to be used separately, or in a compost, according to the judgment of the farmer. It is situated in a latitude between the extremes of heat and cold, and is the same distance by land and water, with good roads, and the best navigation (to and) from the Federal City, Alexandria, and George- Town ; distant from the first, twelve, from the second nine, and from the last sixteen miles. The Fed- eral City, in the year 1800, will become the seat of the general government of the United States. It is increasing fast in buildings, and rising into consequence ; and will I have no doubt, from the advantages given to it by Nature, and its proximity to a rich interior country, and the western terri- tory, become the emporium of the United States. . . . This river, which encompasses the land the distance above-mentioned, is well supplied with various kinds of fish, at all seasons of the year ; and, in the spring, with the greatest profusion of shad, herrings, bass, carp, perch, sturgeon &c. Several valuable fisheries appertain to the estate ; the whole shore, in short, is one entire fishery. There are, as you will perceive by the plan, four farms besides that at the mansion-house : these four contain 3260 acres of culti- vable land." TUESDAY, DECEMBEK 31. At Philadelphia : " It has been ray intention ever since my return to the city, to contribute my mite towards the relief of the most needy inhabitants of it. The pressure of public business hitherto has suspended, but not altered my resolution. I am at a loss, however, for whose benefit to apply the little I can give and in whose hands to place it . . . and therefore have taken the liberty of asking your advice." — Washington to William White, Bishop of Pennsylvania. 1794- WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1. At Philadelphia : " January 6. — On "Wednesday last [January 1], New Year's day — Members of both Houses of Congress — Heads of Departments — Foreign Ministers — Members of the Society of the Cincinnati — Officers of the Militia, &c., waited on the President of the United States, to oifer him the compliments of the Season." — Dunlap and ClaypooWs American Daily Advertiser. THUESDAY, JANUARY 9. At Philadelphia : " The news of this evening is, that the Queen of France is no more.* When will the savages be satiated with blood ? l!^o prospect of peace in Europe, and therefore none of internal harmony in America. We cannot well be in a more disagreeable situation than we are with all Europe, with all Indians, and with all Barbary rovers. Nearly one half the continent is in constant opposition to the other, and the President's situation, which is highly responsible, is very distressing. He made me a very friendly visit yesterday, which I returned to-day, and had two hours' conversation with him alone in his cabinet." — John Adams to Mrs. Adams, January 9. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22. At Philadelphia : " February 24. — Saturday [February 22], being the anniversary of that auspicious event the birth of the President of the United States, the same was observed here with unusual demonstrations of joy." — Dun- lap and Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser. * Marie Antoinette was executed October 16, 1793. 271 272 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1794 "A Federal Salute ushered in the dawn, and the bells of Christ Church rang peals at intervals through the day. At noon the Members of both Houses of Congress — the Heads of Departments — the Foreign Ministers — his brother veterans, the Society of the Cincinnati — the Governor, Civil and Military Officers of this Commonwealth — the Reverend Clergy — the Faculty of the University of Pennsylvania — and a great assemblage of other citizens, waited on the President at his house to pay him their respects and congratulations. "The Light Horse, Artillery, & Light Infantry, which paraded in honor of the day, were more numerous than on any recent occasion — and their truly soldier-like appearance merits the highest approbation. Repeated federal salutes were fired in the course of the day, by the artillery in High Street. The field officers of the militia were dressed in new and elegant uniforms on this occasion. The general joy and hilarity evinced this day, indicate that the purest republican principles actuate the public mind. The President enters into the 63d year of his age. " The Managers of the City Dancing Assembly gave a Ball in the even- ing. They were honored with the company of the President and Mrs. Wash- ington, several of the Foreign Ministers, a number of the members of Congress, the Secretaries of the treasury and of war, the Governors of the State and of the Western Territory, and the most brilliant display of beauty, perhaps, ever exhibited in this city. The countenances of all present appeared perfectly congenial with the happy occasion." — Idem. " Saturday last [February 22] M. Fauchet, the new Minister from France, was introduced to the President of the United States, by Mr. Randolph, Secretary of State." * — Idem. MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24. At Philadelphia : " Enclosed you will find three Bank notes for one hundred dollars each ; out of which pay the Rev*^. Mr. Muir of Alexandria Fifty pounds, and take his signature to the enclosed receipt." — Washington to William Pearce. This was an annual subscription to the Orphan School under the care of the Rev. James Muir, pastor of the Presbyterian Church in Alexandria. The following item in Washington's will refers to this school : " To the Trustees (Governors or by whatsoever other name they may be designated) of the Academy in the Town of Alexandria, I give and bequeath, in Trust, * Edmund Randolph was appointed Secretary of State on the second of January as successor to Thomas Jeflerson, who had resigned from the office December 31, 1793. The place of Mr. Randolph as Attorney-General was supplied by William Bradford, of Pennsylvania. 1794] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 273 Four thousand dollars, or in other words twenty of the shares which I hold in the Bank of Alexandria toward the support of a Free School, established at, and annexed to the said Academy for the purpose of educating such orphan children, or the children of such other poor and indigent persons as are unable to accomplish it with their own means, and who in the judgment of the trustees of the said Seminary, are best entitled to the benefit of this donation. . . . And to prevent misconception, my meaning is, and is hereby declared to be that, these twenty shares are in lieu of and not in addition to the Thousand pounds given by a missive letter some years ago [December 17, 1785] in consequence whereof an annuity of fifty pounds has since been paid toward the support of that institution." SUNDAY, MAKCH 2. At Philadelphia : " The Price of Midlings and Ship stuff in Alexandria is greatly below the selling price in this market ; especially the first, which is 5^ dollars the barrel of 196 lbs — and the latter, from a dollar and half to two dollars p'. hundred — but as these articles never are so high there as here, you must enquire the most favorable season to dispose of them, and do it to the best advantage. — Keep me informed from time to time of the prices of Superfine and fine flour, that I may know when to strike for mine ; — and ask the Miller why he does not, as usual, note in his weekly returns the number of barrels he has packed of all the different kinds." — Washington to William Pearce. SUNDAY, MAKCH 23. At Philadelphia : " Mr. Smith has, I believe, been fur- nished with fish from my landing, and if he will give as much as another, ought to have the preference ; — but before you positively engage, enquire what the other fisheries are disposed to sell at. — 4/. p^ thousand for Herrings, and 10/. p'. hundred for shad is very low. — I am, at this moment, paying 6/. a piece for every shad I buy." — Washington to William Pearce. SUNDAY, MARCH 30. At Philadelphia : " I am sorry to hear your drilled and other wheat, makes but an indifferent appearance. — I 18 274 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1794 was in hopes such extreame fine weather as we have had during the whole month of March would have occasioned a pleasing change in both. — As grain puts on difierent looks at this season, according as the weather, while grow- ing, happens to be, let me know from time to time how mine comes on. — If it stands thick enough on the ground, such uncommon mildness and warmth as we have had since February, must have recovered that Crop greatly, as well as the Winter Barley." — Washington to William Pearce. The letters from which the last three quotations are made form part of a series of one hundred and sixteen, written by Washington to William Pearce, manager of the Mount Vernon farms from October, 1793, to January, 1797. The originals are in the possession of the Long Island Historical Society, and were published in 1889, with an historical and genealogical introduction and notes by Moncure Daniel Conway, being volume iv. of the Memoirs of that society. The letters quoted, it will be perceived, were all written on Sunday, and, with but few exceptions, this is the case with the entire series, it having been the custom of the President to devote the afternoon of that day to his private correspondence. Upon a careful perusal of the letters comprising the series, we find that the smallest as well as the most important matters connected with his Mount Vernon interests are noted with a detail almost painfully minute. Letter after letter, many of them of considerable length, devoted to instructions as to building, labor, crops, and, in brief, everything pertaining to the manage- ment of a large landed estate ; disclosing an ability for the supervision of business by an absentee that would be remarkable had the writer been entirely free from responsibility other than the proper conduct of his own affairs. And when we reflect that these letters were written during the most trying and exacting period of Washington's life, we may well be impressed with the extraordinary qualities of a mind which could thus calmly with- draw from the engrossing consideration of matters of state, the harassing care of great oflSce, to devote itself, with unfailing regularity, to the accu- rate and voluminous direction of private affairs, of which these letters are a most striking proof. Truly a remarkable record of a remarkable mind ! SUNDAY, APKIL 6. At Philadelphia : " I had no doubt but that the late cap- ture of our Vessels by the British Cruisers, followed by the 1794] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 275 Embargo * which had been laid on the Shipping in our Ports, w^ naturally occasion a temporary fall in the article of provisions ; — yet, as there are the same mouths to feed as before ; — as the demand, consequently, will be as great ; and as the Crops in other parts of the world will not be increased by these means, I have no doubt at all, but that, as soon as the present impediments are removed the prices of flour will rise to what it has been (at least) for which reason hold mine up to the prices mentioned in my last ; and if they are offered, make a provisory agreement, to be ratified, or not, by me; — an answer to which can be obtained in a week." — Washington to William Pearce. TUESDAY, APRIL 8. At Philadelphia: '■^ April 9. — I arrived here [Philadel- phia] on Monday evening; and yesterday dined with the President. The question of war or peace seems to be as much in suspense here as in New York when I left you. I am rather inclined to think that peace will continue, but should not be surprised if war should take place. In the present state of things, it will be best to be ready for the latter event in every respect." — John Jay to Mrs. Jay. TUESDAY, APRIL 15. At Philadelphia : " Let me know whether the message, which in the evening of yesterday I requested you to draw, will be ready by eleven o'clock this forenoon ?" — Washing- ton to Edmund Randolph. This message was the one in which Mr. Jay was nominated to the Senate as envoy extraordinary to England. The message, which was sent * Congress, in retaliation for the "Provision Order" of the British Coun- cil of November 6, 1793, which directed the seizure of all vessels carrying food products to Prance, passed (March 26, 1794) a joint resolution laying an embargo on commerce for thirty days. The measure seemed to have chiefly in view the obstructing the supply of provisions for the British fleet and army in the West Indies. It operated quite as much against the French. I 276 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1794 in the next day, April 16, is as follows : " Gentlemen of the Senate ; The communications which T have made to you during your present session, from the despatches of our minister in London [Thomas Pinckney], contain a serious aspect of our affairs with Great Britain. But, as peace ought to be pursued with unremitted zeal, before the last resource, which has so often been the scourge of nations, and cannot fail to check the advanced prosperity of the United States, is contemplated ; I have thought proper to nominate, and do hereby nominate, John Jay, as envoy extraordinary of the United States to his Britannic Majesty." The nomination of Mr. Jay, which was confirmed April 19, was made in consequence of a motion introduced in the House of Representatives (April 7) that all commercial intercourse with Great Britain and her sub- jects be suspended so far as respected all articles of the growth or manu- facture of Great Britain or Ireland, until the surrender of the frontier posts, etc. This motion, if adopted, would have led directly to war. FEIDAY, APRIL 25. At Philadelphia : '^ April 26. — Yesterday about 11 o'clock, the President, accompanied by the Governor, the Secretary of State, the Secretary of War, and a number of respectable citizens, went down the river in one of the New Castle packets, to Fort Mifflin and other places on the banks of the Delaware." — Dunlap and Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser. TUESDAY, MAY 6. At Philadelphia: "To tell you that the order of his Britannic Majesty in council, of the 8th of June last, respect- ing neutral vessels, had given much discontent in the United States, and that that of the 6th of November and its result had thrown them into a flame, will hardly be news to you when you shall receive this letter. The subsequent order of the 8th of January has in a degree allayed the violence of the heat, but will by no means satisfy them without reparation for the spoliations on our trade, and the injuries we sustain from the non-performance of the treaty of peace. To effect these if possible by temperate means, by fair and firm negotiations, an envoy extraordinary is appointed, and will, I expect, sail in a few days. Mr. Jay is chosen for the 1794] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 277 trust. Mr. John Trumbull goes as his private Secretary." — Washington to Tobias Lear. The order of the British Council of the 8th of June, 1793, directed that armed vessels should arrest and send into port vessels loaded with corn or meal or flour destined for France, and all neutral vessels, save those of Denmark and Sweden, which should attempt to enter any hlockaded port. The order of the 6th of November, which was partially revoked by that of the 8th of January, 1794, directed English vessels to seize and bring to British ports " all ships laden with goods the produce of any colony belong- ing to France, or carrying provisions or other supplies for the use of any such colony." FKIDAT, JUNE 6. At Philadelphia : " June 6. — I had the honor of an inter- view with the President of the United States, to whom I was introduced by Mr. Dandridge, his secretary. He re- ceived me very politely, and after reading my letters, I was asked to breakfast." — Henry Wansey, Excursion to the United States in 1794-. "The President, in his person, is tall and thin, but erect; rather of an engaging than a dignified presence. He appears very thoughtful, is slow in delivering himself, which occasions some to conclude him reserved, but it is rather, T apprehend, the effect of much thinking and reflection, for there is great appearance to me of affability and accommodation. He was at this time in his sixty-third year, being born February 11, 1732, O.S., but he has veiy little the appearance of age, having been all his life-time so exceeding temperate. There is a certain anxiety visible in his countenance with marks of extreme sensibility. . . . " Mrs. Washington herself made tea and coffee for us. On the table were two small plates of sliced tongue, dry toast, bread and butter, &c. but no broiled fish, as is the general custom. Miss Custis her grand-daughter, a very pleasing young lady, of about sixteen, sat next to her, and her brother George Washington Custis, about two years older than herself.* There was but little appearance of form: one servant only attended, who had no livery ; a silver urn for hot water, was the only article of expence on the table. She appears something older than the President, though, I under- * This is an error. George Washington Parke Custis was two years younger than his sister Nelly. 278 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1794 stand, they were both born in the sanne year ;* short in stature, rather robust ; very plain in her dress, woarinii; a very plain cap, with her grey hair closely turned up under it. She has routs or levees (whichever the people chases to call them) every Wednesday and Saturday at Philadelphia, during the sitting of Congress. f But the Anti-federalists object even to these, as tend- ing to give a super-eminency, and introductory to the paraphernalia of courts. ' ' — Wanset. SUNDAY, JUNE 15. At Philadelphia : " If nothing, unforseen by me at pres- ent, intervenes to prevent it, I shall leave this city for Mount Vernon the day after tomorrow; (tuesday) but as the weather is warm, my horses fat and out of exercise, and I may have occasion to stop a day on the road, it is not probable I shall reach home before Sunday or Monday next." — Washington to William Pearce. TUESDAY, JUNE 17. Leaves Philadelphia : " June 19. — The President left this city on Tuesday [June 17], on a visit to his seat in Vir- ginia." — Dayilap and Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser. " Baltimore, June 19. — At five o'clock this afternoon I reached this place, and shall proceed in the morning." — Washington to Edmund Randolph. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 26. At Mount Vernon: "I shall endeavour to be back by the time I allotted before I left Philadelphia, if I am able ; but an exertion to save myself and horse from falling among the rocks at the Lower Falls of the Potomac, whither I went on Sunday morning [June 22] to see the canal and locks, has wrenched my back in such a manner as to pre- vent my riding ; and hitherto has defeated the purposes for which I came home. My stay here will only be until I can ride with ease and safety, whether I accomplish my own business or not." — Washington to Edmund Randolph. * Mrs. Washington was born June 21, 1731. (" Martha Washington," by Anne H. Wharton, page 3.) f The levees of Mrs. Washington were held every Friday evening. 1794] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 279 MONDAY, JUNE 30. At Mount Vernon : " I expect to leave this place on Thursday [July 3] for Philadelphia ; and if, upon inquiry at Georgetown, I should find the upper road the smoothest and best, I shall proceed by it," — Washington to Edmund Handolph. MONDAY, JULY" 7. At Philadelphia : " Jidy 9. — Monday afternoon [July 7] the President of the United States arrived in town from the southward." — Dunlap and Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser. ^'^Philadelphia, July 13. — I arrived in this City myself on Monday; made rather worse by my journey, and a wetting I g(n on the Road on Saturday ; having travelled all day through a constant Rain. , . . P.S. Mrs. Washing- ton desires you will send her by the first Vessel to this place one doz° of the best Hams, and half a doz° Midlings of Bacon. — Weigh the whole and send me the Account of it. ' ' — Washington to William Pearce. THURSDAY, JULY 10. At Philadelphia: ^^ July 10. — I waited on Mr. Ran- dolph, who immediately accompanied me and introduced me to the President of the United States. He said little or nothing to me upon the subject of the business on which I am to be sent [as resident minister to the United Nether- lands]. All his directions and intentions on this head I am to receive through the medium of his Ministers. I dined with him General and Mrs. Knox, Mr. Randolph and Mr. Bradford were there, and also Mrs. R. Morris." — Diary of John Quincy Adams. "July 11. — By the invitation of the President, I attended the reception he gave to Piomingo and a number of other Chickasaw Indians. Five Chiefs, seven Warriors, four boys and an interpreter constituted the Company. As soon as the whole were seated the ceremony of smoking began. A large East Indian pipe was placed in the middle of the Hall. The tube which appeared to be of leather, was twelve to fifteen feet in length. The President began and after two or three whifls, passed the tube to Piomingo ; he to the next chief, aud so all round. . . . When it was finished, the Presi- 280 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1794 dent addressed them in a speech which he read, stopping at the close of every sentence for the interpreter to translate it. . . . Piomingo then de- sired he might he excused from giving his talks at this time, heing very unwell, hut promised to give them in a few days. They then made several inquiries respecting the Cherokees who have recently heen here.* Their questions discovered a mixture of curiosity and animosity. These two nations are at war, and the Chickasaws spoke of the others as perfidious people. The fides punica it seems is not confined to civilized nations. "The informal conversation was held while wine, punch and cake were carrying round. . . . These formalities employed about an hour ; after which they rose, shook hands with us all, and departed." — Diary of John Quincy Adams. SUNDAY, JULY 20. At Philadelphia : " I know of no pursuit in which more real & important service can be rendered to any Country, than by improving its agriculture — its breed of useful ani- mals — and other branches of a husband-mans cares." — Washington to Sir John Sinclair. Sir John Sinclair, a Scottish nobleman distinguished for his statistical publications and philanthropy, was a frequent correspondent of Washington on agricultural matters, in which he took great interest of a practical nature. He was the founder of the Board of Agriculture in Scotland (1793) and its first president. Sinclair published at London in 1800, in fac-simile, the letters addressed to him by Washington on "agriculture and other in- teresting topics," to which was appended a brief sketch of the character of the writer. WEDNESDAY, JULY 30. At Germantown : " August 3. — I removed to this place on Wednesday last [July 30], in order to avoid the heat of the City of Philadelphia. — It is probable I shall remain here until about the middle of September." — Washington to William Pearce. * " June 7. — Yesterday arrived here in the brig Fame, Capt. Hunt, eight days from Charleston, twenty-one Indian Chiefs, or head warriors, of the Cherokee nation, deputised by that nation to treat with the President of the United States. They were conducted from the place of landing to the accommodations provided for them by the directions of the Governor of this State." — Dunlap and Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser. 1794] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 281 THURSDAY, AUGUST 7. At Germautown : Issues a proclamation warning the Uiiu^lcjuj insurgents in the western parts of Pennsylvania to desist ,v,i./!f(r, from their opposition to the laws laying duties upon spirits distilled within the United States, and upon stills. In this proclamation, after briefly stating the doings of the insurgents, the measures thus far pursued by the government, and the principal points of the law which authorized force to be emplo^-ed against insurrectionary movements, the President expressed the opinion that the time had come when it was necessary to call out the militia for this purpose ; and the in- surgents were warned that, unless they should disperse before the 1st of September, the law would be put in execution. In pursuance thereof a requisition was issued for raising 12,950 of the militia,* to be held in readi- ness to march at a moment's warning: Pennsylvania, 5200; New Jersey, 2100 ; Maryland, 2350 ; Virginia, 3300 The militia were called out on the 2d of September, and the President, in a proclamation of the 25th of the month, expressed his satisfaction at learning of their patriotic alacrity in obeying the call, and that a force, which, according to every reasonable ex- pectation, was adequate to the exigency, was already in motion to the scene of disaffection. SATURDAY, AUGUST 30. At Germantown : " I will undertake without the gift of prophecy, to predict, that it will be impossible to keep this country in a state of amity with Great Britain long, if the posts are not surrendered. A knowledge of these being my sentiments would have little weight, I am persuaded, with the British administration, and perhaps not with the nation in effecting the measure; but both may rest satisfied that, if they want to be in peace with this country, and to enjoy the benefits of its trade, to give up the posts is the only road to it. Withholding them, and consequences we feel at present continuing, war will be inevitable." — Wash- ington to John Jay, at London. It was stipulated in Article VII. of the definitive treaty of peace of September 3, 1783, that the British government should with all convenient speed withdraw its armies from every post, place, and harbor within the * This requisition was afterward augmented to fifteen thousand. 282 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1794 United States. The troops, however, had not as yet been withdrawn from the posts of Mackinaw, Detroit, Fort Erie, Niagara, Oswego, Oswegatchie (on the St. Lawrence), and Port-au-fer and Dutchman's Point on Lake Cham- plain. It was the opinion of the President that all the difficulties with the Indians were the result of the conduct of the British agents protected by these frontier posts. They endeavored to remove friendly tribes over the line, and also to keep those who were hostile to the United States in a state of irritation ; and they also furnished the whole with arms, ammunition, clothing, and even provisions to carry on the war. From these facts came the positive conviction (expressed in the above-quoted letter) that without their surrender a state of amity with Great Britain could not long be con- tinued. The surrender of these posts, thus urged by Washington, was incor- porated in Article II. of the "Jay Treaty," concluded at London, October 25, 1795, it being stipulated that His Majesty should withdraw all his troops and garrisons from all posts and places within the boundary lines assigned by the treaty of peace with the United States ; this evacuation was to take place on or before the first day of June, 1796. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBEE 14. At Germantown : " Love is a mighty pretty thing, but like all other delicious things it is cloying ; and when the first transport of the passion begins to subside, which it assuredly will do, and yield — oftentimes too late — to more sober reflections, it serves to evince, that love is too dainty a food to live upon alone, and ought not to be considered further than as a necessary ingredient for that matrimonial happiness which results from a combination of causes ; none of which are of greater importance than that the object on whom it is placed should possess good sense, — good disposi- tions, — and the means of supporting you in the way you have been brought up, and who, at the same time, has a claim to the respect of the circle in which he moves." — Washington to Eliza Parke Custis. Eliza Parke Custis, to whom this letter was addressed, was the eldest child of John Parke Custis, the son of Mrs. "Washington, who died in No- vember, 1781. At the date of the letter she was living at Hope Park, Fair- fax County, Virginia, with her mother, who had married Dr. David Stuart, their former residence having been at Abingdon. Miss Custis married (March 21, 1796) Thomas Law, who had been chief of a large district in Bengal. In England his family was opulent and distinguished. Her sister 1794] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 283 Martha Parke Custis married (January 6, 1795), at the age of seventeen, Thomas Peter, son of Kichard Peter, of Georgetown, Maryland. Tlie two younger children, Eleanor Parke and George Washington Parke Custis, were brought up at Mount Vernon, as has been previously stated. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBEE 20. At Philadelphia : " September 21. — We left our Quarters at German Town yesterday, and are again fixed in this City." — Washington to William Pearce. The President occupied the same house at Germantown in 1794 as in the previous year. Under date of September 24, 1794, the following entry occurs in his Cash-Book : "Isaac Franks in Full for House rent &c at Germ town p' rect.— 201.60." SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28. At Philadelphia : " I leave this on Tuesday for Carlisle, where I shall (from the information I expect to receive from the Insurgent Counties of this state) be better enabled to determine whether I shall proceed on with the Troops, than I can do here." — Washington to William Pearce. " September 29. — The insurgents in the back country have carried matters so high that the President has been obliged to send a large body of men to settle the matter, and is to go himself tomorrow to Carlyle to meet the troops. God knows when he will return again. I shall be left quite alone with the children." — Mrs. Washington to Mrs. George Augustine Wash- ington. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30. Leaves Philadelphia: '■'■ September 30. — Having determined from the Report of the Commissioners, who w^ere appointed to meet the Insurgents in the Western Counties in the State of Pennsylvania, and from other circumstances — to repair to the places appointed for the Rendezvous, of the Militia of New Jersey Pennsylvania Maryland & Virginia ; I left the City of Philadelphia about half past ten o'clock this forenoon accompanied by Col° Hamilton (Secretary of the Treasury) and my private Secretary [Bartholomew Dan- 284 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1794 dridge].* Dined at Norris Town and lodged at a place called the Trap — the first 17, and the latter 25 miles from Philadelphia." — Washington'' s Diary. " At Norris Town we passed a detachment of Militia who were preparing to March for the Kendezvous at Carlisle— and at the Trap late in the evening, we were overtaken by Major [John] Stagg principal Clerk in the Depart- ment of War with letters from Gen' Wayne & the Western Army contain- ing official & pleasing accounts of his engagement [August 20th] with the Indians near the British Post at the Rapids of the Miami of the Lake — and of his having destroyed all the Indian Settlements on that Eiver in the Vicinity of the said Post quite up to the grand Glaize — the quantity not less than 5000 Acres— and the Stores &c. of Col" McGlee [M'Kee] the British Agent of Indian Affairs a mile or two from the Garrison." — Washington's Diary. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1. At Reading, Pennsylvania : " October 1. — Left the Trap early, and breakfasting at Pottsgrove 11 Miles we reached Reading to Dinner 19 miles farther where we found several detachm*' of Infantry & Cavalry preparing for their March to Carlisle." — Washington's Diary. " October 2. — An accident happening to one of my horses, occasion* my setting out later than was intended — I got off in time, however, to make a halt (to bait my horses) at Womelsdorps [Womelsdorf] 14 miles and to view the Canal from Myerstown towards Lebanon — and the Locks between the two places ; which (four adjoining each other, in the dissent from the Summit ground along the Tulpihockin ; built of Brick ;) appeared admira- bly constructed. — ^Reached Lebanon at Night, 28 miles." — Washington's Diary. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3. At Harrisburg, Pennsylvania : " October 3. — ^Breakfasted at Humels T[own]. 14 M and dined and lodged at Harris- * " September 30. — That great and good man General Washington, Presi- dent of the United States, set out from his house on Market Street, with Secretary Hamilton on his left and his Private Secretary on his right, to head the troops called out to quell the insurrection to the westward." — Diary of Jacob Hiltzheimer. 1794] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 285 burgh on the Banks of the Susquehanna 23 miles from Lebanon. " At Harrisburgh we found the first Regiment of l!Tew Jersey (about 560 strong) comm** by Col° Turner drawn out to receive me — passed along the line, to my Quarters — and after dinner walked through and round the Town which is considerable for its age (of about 8 or 9 years) — The Sus- quehanna at this place abounds in the Rock fish of 12 or 15 Inches in length & a fish which they call Salmon." — Wash- ington's jyiary. " Harrisburgh, October 6. — On Friday last [October 3], the president of the United States arrived in this town. The pleasure excited, in beholding, for the first time, our beloved chief, in this borough, is not easily described. An address was delivered to him, by the burgesses, in behalf of the inhab- itants of the town, which he was pleased to answer." — Dunlap and Clay- poole's American Daily Advertiser, October 16. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4. At Carlisle, Pennsylvania : " October 4. — Forded the Sus- quehanna ; nearly a mile wide, including the Island. At the lower end of w""" the road crosses it. On the Cumber- land side I found a detachment of the Philadelphia light horse ready to receive, and escort me to Carlisle 17 miles ; where I arrived about 11 Oclock. — two miles short of it, I met the Governors of Pennsylvania [Thomas Mitflin] & Kew Jersey [Richard Howell] with all the Cavalry that had Rendezvoused at that place drawn up — passed them — and the Infantry of Pennsylvania before I alighted at my quarters." — Washington's Diary. " Carlisle, October 8. — On Saturday last [October 4] the President of the United States arrived here. Every exertion was made by the respectable army now encamped, and by the inhabitants of this place to receive him with that respect correspondent to those sentiments of attachment and veneration, with which every good man and patriot had been long impressed. The Governors of Pennsylvania and Jersey, at the head of their respective squadrons of horse, and the friends of government inhabitants of this town, met him at some distance from the borough. The President was escorted 286 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1794 by a detachment of Philadelphia horse, who left the camp at three o'clock in the morning of that day, and who arrived at the river as he had just passed it. He was accompanied by Secretary Hamilton, and his private secretarv Mr. Dandridge. This grand procession passed through the borough to the camp. Here the horse formed on the right and left wings of the army, drawn up in martial order, and forming a line the most respecta- ble ever pei-haps before displayed. Besides the great mass of respectable yeomanry, there might be seen as private troopers some of the principal officers of the state government, members of the senate and house of repre- sentatives of Pennsylvania, officers who had commanded regiments in the continental service, merchants of the most respectable characters and fortunes, lawyers of eminent talents and property. Amongst the infantry as volunteer soldiers, there are young gentlemen of the first families in the respective states. Some of them men of great opulence, and a number of them of consequence in the commercial world. " The line was composed of the cavalry before mentioned, a regiment of artillery with 16 pieces, with the infantry from various parts of Pennsyl- vania, amounting in the whole to near three thousand men beautifully equipped, and all in handsome uniforms. The army was reviewed by the President who appeared to enjoy the utmost satisfaction at the illustrious display of patriotic exertion ; he remarked, as we are informed, that he had never beheld a more respectable body of troops, and some gentlemen who had been American officers in the late war with Great Britain, admitted that they had never seen at any period of the war so strong and fine a body of cavalry. In the evening the court house in this borough was illuminated by the federal citizens, and a transparency exhibited with the following inscriptions in large illuminated characters — in the front of the transparency, 'WASHINGTON IS EVER TRIUMPHANT.' On one side 'THE REIGN OF THE LAWS;' on the other side, 'WOE TO ANARCHISTS.' "—Dimiop a«d Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser, October 17. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5. At Carlisle : " October 5. — Went to the Presbiterian Meet- ing and heard Doct' Davidson Preach a political Sermon, recommendatory of order & good government ; and the ex- cellence of that of the United States." — Washington's Biar)/. ''October 6th* to October 12.— Employed in organizing the several de- tachments, which had come in from different Counties of this State, in a very disjointed & loose manner ; — or rather I ought to have said in urging * On Monday, October 6, a number of the principal inhabitants of Car- lisle presented the President with an address, which he answered. 1794] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 287 & assisting Gen^ Mifflin to do it ; as I no otherwise took the command of the Troops than to press them forward, and to provide them with necessaries for their March, as well, & as far, as our means would admit. — To effect these purposes, I appointed General [Edward] Hand adjutant General on the 7th. On the 9lh William Findlay and David Kedick — deputed by the Committee of Safety (as it is dissignated) which met on the 2d of this month at Parkinson's Ferry [now Monongahela City] arrived in Camp with the Kesolutions of the said Committee; — and to give information of the State of things in the four Western Counties of Pennsylvania to wit — Washing- ton Fayette Wesf^ [Westmoreland] & Allegany in order to see if it would prevent the March of the Army into them. — At 10 o'clock I had a meeting with these persons in the presence of Gov'' Howell (of New Jersey) the Secretary of the Treasury, Col" Hamilton, & M"' Dandridge : — Gov'' Mifflin was invited to be present, but excused himself on Ace* of business. . . . On the 10* the light & legionary Corps under the immediate Command of Maj"" [William] M^Pherson — The Jersey Regiment & Guirneys [Colonel Francis Gurney] from Philadelphia, commenced their March under the orders of Governor Howell ; and the day following the whole body of Cav- alry (except the three Troops of Phil* Horse commanded by Capt° [John] Dunlap, as part of the legion above mentioned) under Genl White * — a new formed Corp of Independant uniform Companies under & several other Corps under the Command of Gov' Mifflin Marched all for the Rendezvous at Bedford." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12. At Chambersburg, Pennsylvania: " October 12. — Having settled these matters ; seen the Troops o"flr, as before men- tioned ; given them their Rout & days Marching ; and left Maj' Gen^ [William] Irvine to organize the remainder of the Pennsylvania detachments as they might come in, & to March them & the Jersey Troops on M^hen refreshed, — I set out from Carlisle about 7 o'clock this Morning — dined at Shippensburgh 21 miles & lodged at Chambersburgh 11 m. further where I was joined by the Adg* Gen' Hand.'' — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, OCTOBER 13. At Williamsport, Maryland : " October 13. — ^Breakfasted at Greencastle [Pennsylvania] 10 Miles, & lodged at Wil- liamsport, 14 Miles further." — Washington'' s Diary. * Anthony W. White, Adjutant-General of New Jersey. 288 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1794 " WiUiamspori, October 14. — "With pleasure we announce to the public, that the President of the United States arrived here last evening, in good health — his presence made every heart rejoice, and beat high with aflFectiou and gratitude — last night every window was illuminated — Early this morn- ing he set out for Cumberland " — Diinlap and Ciaypoole^s American Daily Advertiser, October 25. TUESDAY, OCTOBEK 14. At Bath, Virginia : " October 14. — About Seven o'clock, or half after it, we left Williamsport ; and travelling up, on the Maryland side of the River, we breakfasted at one 13 miles on our way — & crossing the Potomac a mile or two below Hancock Town lodged at the Warm Springs ; or Bath [now Berkeley Springs, Morgan County, West Virginia] ; 16 miles, from our breakfasting stage — and 29 from Williamsport." — Washington's Diary. " October 15. — Left Bath by seven oclock ; & crossing the Cacapehon Mountain, and the Potoraack River by a very rough Road, we breakfasted at one Goldens — distant about 7 Miles — Bated our horses at a very indif- ferent place ab' 13 Miles further on — and lodged at the old Town 33 or 34 INIiles — This distance from the extreme badness of the Road, more than half of it being very hilly, & great part of it Stoney, was a severe days journey for the Carriage horses; they performed it however well." — Washington's Diary. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16. At Cumberland, Maryland : " October 16. — After an early breakfast we set out for Cumberland — and about 11 o'clock arrived there. — Three Miles from the Town I was met by a party of Horse under the command of Major [George] Lewis (my Nephew) and by Brig' Gen' [Samuel] Smith of the Maryland line, who Escorted me to the Camp ; where, finding all the Troops under Arms, I passed along the line of the Army ; & was conducted to a house the Residence of Major Lynn of the Maryland line (an old Continental Officer) where I was well lodged & civily entertained." — Washington's Diary. 1794] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 289 " October 17th & 18th. — Remained at Cumberland, in order to acquire a true knowledge of the strength condition &c of the Troops ; — and to see how they were provided, and when they could be got in readiness to pro- ceed. — I found upward of 3200 men (Officers included) in this encampment; Understood that about 500 more were at a little Village on the Virginia side, 11 Miles distant, called Frankfort, under the command of Maj' Gen' [Daniel] Morgan ; that 700 more had arrived at that place the evening of the IS"" und"' Brigf Mathews — and 500 More were expected in the course of a few days under Col" Page — and That the whole were well supplied with Prov"' Forage & Straw. — Having requested that every thing might be speedily arranged for a forward movement, and a light Corps to be organ- ized for the advance under the command of Major Gen' Morgan, I resolved to proceed to Bedford next morn^." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19. At Bedford, Pennsylvania : " October 19. — In company with Gen^ Lee, who I requested to attend me, that all the arrangements necessary for the Army's crossing the Mount"" in two columns might be made; — Their Routs & days Marches fixed, that the whole might move in Unison — and accompanied by the Adjutant General and my own family we set out, ab* eight oclock, for Bedford, and making one halt at the distance of 12 Miles, reached it a little after 4 oclock in the afternoon being met a little out of the En- campment by Gov'' Mifflin Gov' Howell — & several other Officers of distinction. — " Quarters were provided for me at the House of a M' [David] Espy, Prothonotary of the County of Bedford — to which I was carried & lodged very comfortably." — Wash- ington's Diary. " October 19. — The Cavalry this morning escorted the President about five miles from [the Cumberland] camp when he requested the Troops to return & taking leave spoke to Major George Lewis as follows : ' George, You are the eldest of five nephews that I have in this Army, let your con- duct be an example to them and do not turn your back untill you are or- dered.' . . . The Presidents 5 nephews are Major George Lewis, Commandant of the Cavalry. Major Lawrence Lewis Aid de Camp to Major Genl Mor- gan. Mr. Howell Lewis in Capt. Mercer's troop and Mr. Sam' "Washington (son of Col. Ch's Washington), and Mr. Lawrence Washington (son of 19 290 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1794 Col. Sam'] Washington) both of whom are light horsemen in the troop lately commanded by Capt. Lewis." — Diary of Robert Wellford, Surgeon- General. MONDAY, OCTOBER 20. At Bedford : " October 20.— Called the Quarter Master General, Adjutant General, Contractor, & others of the Staff departm* before me, & the Commander in chief [Henry Lee], at 9 oclock this morning, in order to fix on the Routs of the two columns & their stages ; — and when they w*^ be able to put the Army in motion. — Also to obtain a correct return of the strength — and to press the command- ing Ofiicers of Corps to prepare with all the Celerity in their power for a forward movement. — Upon comparing ace*' it was found that the army could be put in motion [on the] 23'^ — and it was so ordered. . . . Matters being thus arranged I wrote a farewell address to the Army through the Com- mander in chief Gov"" Lee — to be published in orders — and having prepared his Instructions and made every arrange- ment that occurred, as necessary I prepared for my return to Philadelphia in order to meet Congress, and to attend to the Civil duties of my Office." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21. Leaves Bedford : " Bedford, October 23. — "We understand the President of the United States left Bedford, on his return to Philadelphia, on Tuesday last [October 21]." — Durdap and Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser, October 28. " From Cumberland and Bedford, the army marched in two divisions into the country of the insurgents. As had been foreseen, the greatness of the force prevented the effusion of blood. The disaffected did not venture to assemble in arms. Several of the leaders who had refused to give assur- ances of future submission to the laws were seized, and some of them de- tained for legal prosecution. A Mr. Bradford, who, in the latter stages of the insurrection, had manifested a peculiar degree of violence, and had openly advocated the appeal to arras, made his escape into the territories of Spain. " But although no direct and open opposition was made, the spirit of 1794] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 291 insurrection was by no means subdued. A sour and malignant temper dis- played itself, which indicated but too plainly that the disposition to resist had only sunk under the pressure of the great military force brought into the country, but would rise again should that force be suddenly removed. It was, therefore, thought advisable to station for the winter, a detachment, to be commanded by major general Morgan, in the centre of the disaffected country. " Thus, without shedding a drop of blood, did the prudent vigour of the executive terminate an insurrection which, at one time, threatened to shake the government of the United States to its foundation." — Marshall's Wash- ington, vol. V. p. 589. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26. At Wright's Ferry : * " Thus far I have proceeded with- out accident to man horse or carriage, altho' the latter has had wherewith to try its goodness ; especially in ascending the North Mountain from Skinners by a wrong road ; that is, — by the old road which never was good and is rendered next to impassible by neglect. . . . " I rode yesterday afternoon thro' the rain from York Town to this place, and got twice in the height of it hung (and delayed by that means) on the rocks in the middle of the Susquehanna. ... I do not intend further than Lan- caster to-day. — But on Tuesday, if no accident happens I expect to be landed in the City of Philadelphia." — Wash- ington to Alexander Hamilton. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28. At Philadelphia : " October 29. — Yesterday morning the President of the United States, and his suite arrived in town from Bedford." — Dunlap and Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser. ^'■Philadelphia, 31 October. — By pushing through the rain, which fell more or less on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, I arrived in this city before noon on Tuesday, without encountering any accident on the road, or any- thing more unpleasant than the badness of the ways, after the rains had * On the Susquehanna, now Columbia, Lancaster County, Pennsyl- vania. 292 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1794 softened the earth and made them susceptible of a deep impression of the wheels." — Washington to Alexander Hamilton. THUKSDAY, OCTOBER 30. At Philadelphia : " November 1. — The Chevalier de Freire was on Thursday [October 30] presented by the Secretary of State, to the President, as Minister Resident of Her Most Faithful Majesty [Maria-Frances-Isabella, Queen of Portu- gal], to the United States of America, and was received as such. " We also hear that Madam Freire was yesterday [Oc- tober 31,] introduced to the President and Mrs. Washing- ton." — Dunlap and Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19. At Philadelphia: ^^ November 19. — This Day at twelve o'clock the President of the United States met both Houses of the Legislature, in the Chamber of the House of Repre- sentatives, and delivered his Address." — Dunlap and Clay- poole's America}! Daily Advertiser. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22. At Philadelphia : " November 22. — This day the Senate waited on the President of the United States, and the Vice President in their name presented him with an answer to his speech to both Houses of Congress." — Dunlap and Clay- poole's American Daily Advertiser. " December 1. — Last Saturday [November 29] at twelve o'clock the House of Representatives of the United States waited on the President with their answer to his speech." — Idem. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4. At Philadelphia : " December 4. — We are happy in an- ?\r.^^(y: f.*^' " nouncing to the public that the President of the United ibiu*^ v-AA> States means to honor the Old American Company with r .. . < his presence at the Theatre this evening." — The Aurora. 1794] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 293 "Old American Company.— THEATRE.— CEDAE [or South] Street. —LAST NIGHT THIS SEASON.— FOR THE BENEFIT of Mr. and Mrs. HALLAM. — This Evening, Thursday, December 4. — Will be pre- sented, a Comedy, called THE YOUNG QUAKER ; or The Fair Phila- delphian. "Written by O'Keefe, and performed in London with the most unbounded applause. — End of the Play (by particular desire) the Panto- mime Ballet of the TWO PHILOSOPHERS.— To which will be added, a new Musical Piece, called The CHILDREN in the Wood.— The MUSIC by Dr. Arnold, with additional SONGS by Mr. Carr. — End of the Farce, Mr. Martin will recite Dr. Goldsmith's celebrated Epilogue in the character of Harlequin. — The whole to conclude with a LEAP through A Barrel of FIRE."- /c?em. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10. At Philadelphia : " December 11. — Yesterday returned from the western expedition Macpherson's volunteer bat- talion of blues,* headed by their friend general [Frederick] Frelinghuysen, who commanded the legion. At Broad- Street they were received under a discharge of artillery by a detachment which went out for that purpose — from Schuyl- kill they were escorted into the city by Captains [John] Dunlap, [Abraham] Singer, and [Matthew] M'Connell's Horse, in full uniform — their companions in the late truly glorious, successfiil, and bloodless expedition. . . . As they passed the President's House who was at the door, the band played ; the Father of his country, expressed in his coun- tenance, more than can be described." — Dunlap and Clay- poole's American Daily Advertiser. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 30. At Philadelphia : " The considerations, which you have often suggested to me, and which are repeated in your letter of the 28th instant, as requiring your departure from your present office, are such as to preclude the possibility * A special body of volunteers formed for the purpose of assisting in quell- ing the "Whiskey Insurrection." They were organized into a battalion, and in compliment to their commander, Major William Macpherson, styled themselves " Macpherson Blues." On the threatened war with France in 1798 the " Blues" were reorganized. -fV„,, \- 294 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1794 of my urging your continuance in it. This being the case, I can only wish that it was otherwise. " I cannot suffer you, however, to close your public ser- vice, without uniting with the satisfaction, which must arise in your own mind from a conscious rectitude, my most perfect persuasion, that you have deserved well of your country." — Washiiigton to Henry Knox, Timothy Pickering, at this time Postmaster-General, was appointed to succeed General Knox as Secretary of War on January 2, 1795. I79?- THUKSDAT, JANUAKY 1. At Philadelphia : Issues a proclamation appointing Thurs- day, the nineteenth day of February, as a " Day of Public Thanksgiving and Prayer." THUKSDAY, JANUARY 22. At Philadelphia : " A month from this day, if I should live to see the completion of it, will place me on the wrong (perhaps it would be better to say on the advanced) side of my grand climateric; and although I have no cause to complain of the want of health, I can religiously aver, that no man was ever more tired of public life, or more de- voutly wished for retirement than I do." — Washington to Edmund Pendleton. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28. At Philadelphia : " A plan for the establishment of a university in the Federal City has frequently been the sub- ject of conversation ; but, in what manner it is proposed to commence this important institution, on how extensive a scale, the means by which it is to be affected, how it is to be supported, or what progress is made in it, are matters altogether unknown to me." — Washington to the Commis- sioners of the Federal District. In continuing this letter, Washington wrote, " It has always been a source of serious reflection and sincere regret with me, that the youth of the United States, should be sent to foreign countries for the purpose of education. Although there are doubtless many, under these circumstances, 295 296 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1795 who escape the danger of contracting principles unfavorable to republican government, yet we ought to deprecate the hazard attending ardent and susceptible minds, from being too strongly and too early prepossessed in favor of other political systems, before they are capable of appreciating their own. " For this reason I have greatly wished to see a plan adopted, by which the arts, sciences, and belles-lettres could be taught in their fullest extent, thereby embracing all the advantages of European tuition, with the means of acquiring the liberal knowledge, which is necessary to qualify our citizens for the exigencies of public as well as private life; and (which with me is a consideration of great magnitude) by assembling the youth from the different parts of this rising republic, contributing from their intercourse and inter- change of information to the removal of prejudices, which might perhaps sometimes arise from local circumstances." * MONDAY, FEBKUAKY 2. At Philadelphia : " After so long an experience of your public services, I am naturally led at this moment of your departure from office (which it has always been my wish to prevent), to review them. In every relation, which you have borne to me, I have found that my confidence in your talents, exertions, and integrity has been well placed. I the more freely render this testimony of my approbation, because I speak from opportunities of information, which cannot deceive me, and which furnish satisfactory proof of your title to public regard. My most earnest wishes for your happiness will attend you in your retirement." — Washington to Alexander Hamiltoii. Mr. Hamilton resigned the office of Secretary of the Treasury on the 31st of January. Oliver Wolcott, Jr., was appointed his successor on the 3d of February. * The national university in which the first President took so much in- terest, and towards the endowment of which he bequeathed the fifty shares of the Potomac Company donated to him by the State of Virginia, has not as yet been established. Several attempts, however, have been made to procure the proper legislation, but no positive action by Congress has been taken. The site selected by Washington is now occupied by the National Observatory. 1795] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 297 THUKSDAY, FEBRUARY 19. At Philadelphia : Thanksgiving Day. Attends Christ Church, Second Street above Market.* "On a thanksgiving day appointed by the President for the suppression of the western insurrection,! I preached a sermon in his presence. The sub- ject was the Connection between Religion and Civil Happiness. It was misrepresented in one of our newspapers. This induced the publishing of the sermon,J with a dedication to the President, pointedly pleading his proclamation in favour of the connection affirmed. . . . "The father of our country, whenever in this city, as well during the revolutionary war as in his Presidency, attended divine service in Christ Church of this city ; except during one winter [1781-82] ; when, being here for the taking of measures with Congress towards the opening of the next campaign, he rented a house ^ near St. Peter's Church [Third and Pine Streets], then in parochial union with Christ Church. During that season, he attended regularly at St. Peter's. His behaviour was always serious and attentive ; but as your letter seems to intend an inquiry on the point of kneeling during the service, I owe it to truth to declare, that I never saw him in the said attitude. During his Presidency, our vestry provided him with a pew, ten yards in front of the reading desk. It was habitually occu- pied by himself, by Mrs. "Washington, who was regularly a communicant, and by his secretaries." — William White to the Rev. B. B. C. Parker, No- vember 28, 1832. * This building, erected 1727-44, is still standing in perfect preservation ; present rector. Rev. Charles Ellis Stevens. t This was not a thanksgiving day appointed especially for the suppres- sion of the Western or "Whiskey Insurrection, but was the date named in the President's proclamation of January 1, for a " Day of Public Thanks- giving and Prayer," in which mention was made of the "seasonable con- troul which has been given to a spirit of disorder in the suppression of the late insurrection." J "A Sermon on the Reciprocal Influences of Civil Policy and Religious Duty. Delivered in Christ Church, in the City of Philadelphia, on Thurs- day, the 19th of February, 1795, Being a day of General Thanksgiving. By "William "White, D.D. , Bishop of the Protestant Epi-scopal Church in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Philadelphia: March 2, 1795." 8vo, pp. 36. § No. 110 South Third Street, between "Walnut and Spruce Streets. This house, which at the time was the property of Benjamin Chew, was taken down about 1830. The house which now stands on the site is known as No. 242 South Third Street. 298 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1795 FKIDAY, FEBKUARY 20. At Philadelphia : " February 20. — Cash paid M"" John Greenwood of the City of New York in full for his services as Dentist to the present date, viz. 60 Dollars, sent by Post in B. Notes." — Washington'' s Cash-Book. This early practitioner of dentistry in America was the son of Isaac Greenwood, of Boston, the first to follow the profession in that city. He enlisted at the early age of fifteen in the Revolutionary army, was in the battle of Bunker Hill, and served in the expedition to Canada under General Arnold. He was also at the battle of Trenton, and afterward entered the naval privateer service, in which he remained until the close of the war. Mr. Greenwood then settled in New York, and became known as a success- ful dentist ; he has the reputation of being the first in the United States to strike up a gold plate to serve as a base for artificial teeth, without a knowledge of it ever having been done before that time, 1799. John Greenwood, however, is best known as being the dentist of the first President, his services beginning at New York in 1789, at which time he constructed for him a complete set of teeth, including both upper and lower jaws. The entire upper portion was carved from a piece of sea-horse or hip- popotamus tusk ; into the lower portion, worked out of the same material, human teeth were inserted and fixed permanently by means of gold pivots. He afterward constructed other sets for the President. MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23. At Philadelphia : " February 24. — Sunday last was the Birth-day of the President of the United States, when he entered into the Sixty-Fourth year of his age. The Auspi- cious Anniversary was yesterday celebrated with every expression of respect becoming the Members of a Free Ke- public towards the Father of his Country. The Members of both Houses of Congress — Foreign Ministers — the Eever- end Clergy, and other Citizens, and respectable Foreigners, assembled at the House of the President, to oifer their con- gratulations. " At noon, a Federal salute was fired by a detachment of the Artillery — immediately after both Branches of the Leg- islature of this Commonwealth, preceded by the Governor, the President of the Senate [William Bingham], and Speaker of the House of Representatives [George Latimer], the Offi- 1795] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 299 cers of the Militia — and the Members of the Cincinnati, went in procession from the State House, escorted by a Military Corps, to the House of the President of the United States — to present their felicitations on the occasion." — Dunlap and Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser. " February 26. — On Monday last [February 23] the anniversary of the President's birth was celebrated. The artillery announced the dawning of the day by a federal salute. In the morning the President was waited on by Congress, the Cincinnati, and a vast number of citizens. In the evening he attended at a ball and supper given in honour of the day, by the City Dancing Assembly. The rooms were crowded by a brilliant assemblage of the Fair of the metropolis. Near 150 ladies, and nearly twice the number of citizens were present. A greater display of beauty and elegance no country, we believe, could ever boast of. Most of the foreign Ministers attended with their ladies. " After the supper the President gave the following toast : ' The Dancing Assembly of Philadelphia — May the members thereof, and the Fair who honour it with their presence, long continue in the enjoyment of an amuse- ment so innocent and agreeable.' " — Idem. "The President's birth-day was celebrated with uncommon zeal and attachment, and I never saw him in better health and spirits. The crowds of gentlemen that waited on him in the day were innumerable, and in the Assembly at night it was scarcely possible to move. I came off a little after eight, having business of great importance to attend to, and indeed the room was much too crowded to be comfortable. ' ' — Jaynes Iredell to Mrs. Iredell, February 26. FKIDAY, FEBRUAEY 27. At Philadelphia : " February 28, 1795. — I received [Feb- ruary 24] an invitation by my father from Mrs. Washington to visit her, and Col. [Thomas] Hartley politely oifered to accompany me to the next drawing-room levee. " On this evening my dress was white brocade silk, trimmed with silver, and white silk, high-heeled shoes, em- broidered with silver, and a light blue sash, with silver cord and tassel tied at the left side. My watch was suspended at the right, and my hair was in its natural curls. Sur- mounting all was a small white hat and white ostrich- feather, confined by brilliant band and buckle. Punctual to the moment, Col. Hartley, in his chariot, arrived. He 300 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1795 brought with him Dr. Price, from England, who has sought America as an asykim, having given some political umbrage to his ow^n government. " The hall, stairs, and drawing-room of the President's house were lighted by lamps and chandeliers. Mrs. Wash- ington, with Mrs. Knox, sat near the lire-place. Other ladies were seated on sofas, and gentlemen stood in the centre of the room conversing. On our approach, Mrs. Washington arose and made a courtesy — the gentlemen bowed most profoundly — and I calculated my declension to her own with critical exactness. The President soon after, with that benignity peculiarly his own, advanced, and I arose to receive and return his compliments with the respect and love my heart dictated. He seated himself beside me, and inquired for my father, a severe cold having detained him at home." — Charlotte Chambers to Mrs. James Chambers. Charlotte Chambers, the writer of the above-quoted letter, was the daughter of General James Chambers, of the Pennsylvania line, and grand- daughter of Benjamin Chambers, the founder of Chambersburg, Pennsyl- vania. She married Israel Ludlow in November, 1796. In a subsequent letter, dated March 11, also to her mother, referring to a visit paid her by Mrs. Washington, she writes, " On taking leave, she observed a portrait of the President hanging over the fire-place, and said ' she had never seen a correct likeness of General Washington. The only merit the numerous portraits of him possessed was their resemblance to each other.' " Miss Chambers was also present at the birthnight ball, February 23, of which, in a letter dated the 25th, she gives her mother the following descrip- tion : ■* "Dr. Kodman, master of ceremonies, met us at the door, and con- ducted us to Mrs. Washington. She half arose as we made our passing compliments. She was dressed in a rich silk, but entirely without orna- ment, except the animation her amiable heart gives to her countenance. Next her were seated the wives of the foreign ambassadors, glittering from the floor to the summit of their headdress. One of the ladies wore three large ostrich-feathers. Her brow was encircled by a sparkling fillet of dia- monds ; her neck and arms were almost covered with jewels, and two watches were suspended from her girdle, and all reflecting the light from a * These letters are printed in a volume published at Philadelphia in 1856, entitled " Memoir of Charlotte Chambers, by her Grandson Louis H. Garrard. ' ' 1795] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 301 hundred directions. Such superabundance of ornament struck me as inju- dicious ; we look too much at the gold and pearls to do justice to the lady. However, it may not be in conformity to their individual taste thus deco- rating themselves, but to honor the country they represent. " The seats were arranged like those of an amphitheatre, and cords were stretched on each side of the room, about three feet from the floor, to pre- serve sufficient space for the dancers. "We were not long seated when General Washington entered, and bowed to the ladies as he passed round the room. 'He comes, he comes, the hero comes!'* I involuntarily but softly exclaimed. When he bowed to me, I could scarcely resist the im- pulse of my heart, that almost burst through my bosom, to meet him. The dancing soon after commenced." MONDAY, MARCH 9.t At Philadelphia : " I am directed by the President of the United States to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 7th inst., and that of the present day ; — and to express to you his regret at your despair of bringing your plan of a national monument to a fortunate issue." — Bartholomew Dandridge to Giuseppe Ceracchi. Giuseppe Ceracchi, an Italian sculptor, a pupil of Canova, came to this country in 1791. He sought the aid of Congress in the erection of a monu- ment to the American Revolution, but that body did not favor the design. Ceracchi modelled a bust of Washington from life in 1792, which, although rather severe in style, is claimed to be an admirable representation of the man. The mouth is particularly remarkable for its fidelity of expression. This bust is owned by the estate of the late Gouverneur Kemble, of New York. He also repeated it in colossal size. Ceracchi returned to Europe in 1795, and was executed in 1802 for a supposed connection with an attempt to assassinate Napoleon. SUNDAY, MARCH 29. At Philadelphia : " March 30. — I dined yesterday with the President. He was in fine health and spirits, and so * The first line of a song written by Henry Carey, an English musician and poet, who died in 1743. His poems were first published at London in 1713. t " March 9. — At four o'clock with the Speaker and twenty-two members of the [Pennsylvania] House [of Representatives], dined with President Washington. He was exceedingly affable to all."' — Diary of Jacob Hiltz- hehner. 302 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1795 were Mrs. Washington and the whole family. There is now there an elderly sister of Miss Custis's [Eliza Parke Custis] not so handsome as herself, but she seems to be very agreeable." — James Iredell to Mrs. Iredell. THUKSDAY, APRIL 2. At Philadelphia : " Ajfrril 2. — We dined to-day with the President and Mrs. Washington, in company with Mr. and Mrs. Hammond, the Chevalier and Madame Frere (who is truly an elegant woman) Don Philip [Joseph De] Jaudennes and his lady, Mr. and Mrs. Van Berckel, Mr. and Mrs. Randolph, Mr. and Mrs. Wolcott, Mr. and Mrs. Pinckney, and Mr. and Mrs. Coxe. Madame Frere and Madame Jaudennes were brilliant with diamonds." — Mrs. William Cashing to . TUESDAY, APRIL 14. Leaves Philadelphia: '■^ April 16. — On Tuesday [April 14] the President of the United States set out from this city for his seat at Mount Vernon." — Dunlap and Claypoole^s American Daily Advertiser. " Tuesday, April 14. — Left Phil* for Mt. V. reached "Wilmington. April 15. — Reached Rogers Susq". April 16. — Baltimore. April 17. — Bladensburgh. April 18. — George Town. April 19. — Mount Vernon and remained there until the 26*'^." — Washington'' s Diary. SUNDAY, APRIL 26. Leaves Mount Vernon : " April 26. — Came to George Town. April 27. — In the federal city. April 28. — Arrived at Bladensburgh. April 29. — Baltimore. April 30. — Rogers's — Susquehanna. May 1. — Came to Wilmington. May 2. — Arrived at Philadelphia." — Washington's Diary. " Philadelphia., 4'^ May. — I arrived in this city on Saturday [May 2] at noon." — Washington to William Pearce. 1795] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 303 MONDAY, MAY 4. At Philadelphia : " I intended, but forgot when I was at Mount Vernon, to measure the size of the picture frames in the parlour ; which contains my picture * — Mrs. Wash- ington — and the two child^ I wish you to do it, and send me the account in your next letter. Measure the frames (I believe they are all of a size) from out to out ; and then on the inside, where they show the Canvas, or picture." — Washington to William. Pearce. SUNDAY, MAY 10. At Philadelphia : " I am sorry to find by your last reports that there has been two deaths in the family since I left Mount Vernon ; and one of them a young fellow. — I hope every necessary care and attention was aftbrded him. — I ex- pect little of this from McKoy [an overseer], — or indeed from most of his class ; for they seem to consider a Negro much in the same light as they do the brute beasts, on the farms ; and often treat them as inhumanly." — Washington to William Pearce. MONDAY, JUNE 8. At Philadelphia: ^^ June 9. — I dined yesterday in the family way with the President. . . . The whole family made the usual inquiries concerning you and sent you the usual compliments." — John Adams to Mrs. Adams. TUESDAY, JUNE 16. At Philadelphia : " Jime 18. — Mr. Adet was presented to the President on Tuesday [June 16], and, accompanied by * The three-quarter-length representing Washington in the costume of a colonel in the Virginia militia, painted by Charles Willson Peale at Mount Vernon, in May, 1772, the first original portrait of the Pater Patrias. George Washington Parke Custis, referring to this portrait in his "Recollections," says, " This splendid and most interesting picture formed the principal orna- ment of the parlor at Mount Vernon for twenty-seven years." The picture is now owned by General George W. C. Lee ; the original study for the head is in the possession of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. li 304 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1795 the Secretary of State made me a visit immediately after his audience. I was not at home, but in Senate. On Wednes- day morning I returned his visit at Oeller's hotel." — John Adams to Mrs. Adams. Pierre Auguste Adet succeeded M. Fauchet as minister from France to the United States. In 1797 he broke off diplomatic relations, presenting the note of the Directory declaring that France would treat neutrals as they allowed themselves to be treated by the English. Before returning to his own country he issued an address to the American people intended to inflame them against the policy of their government. FKIDAY, JULY 3. At Philadelphia : *' The treaty of Amity, Commerce and I^avigation, which has lately been before the Senate, has, as you will perceive, made its public entry into the Gazettes of this City. — Of course the merits, and demerits of it will (especially in its unfinished state), be freely discussed." — Washington to Alexander Hamilton. Mr. Jay closed his English mission by signing a treaty on November 19, 1794. The treaty, in which, for the sake of peace, more was yielded than gained, was long on its passage, for it was not received by the President till March 7, a few days after the adjournment of Congress. Washington summoned the Senate to convene on Monday the 8th of June, and on that day laid before it the treaty and accompanying documents ; and on the 24th of the month, after a minute and laborious investigation, the Senate, by precisely a constitutional majority (twenty to ten), advised and consented to its conditional ratification. A sketch of the document appeared in the Aurora (June 29), and led Senator Stevens Thomson Mason, of Virginia, a strong opponent of the treaty, to send to that paper his copy, and on July 1 it was issued by Bache in a pamphlet. The ratification of the treaty was signed by the President on the 18th of August. SATURDAY, JULY 4. At Philadelphia : " Jidy 6. — Saturday last being the An- niversary of Independence, the same was celebrated by every friend to the United States. The Day was ushered in with ringing of bells, which continued thro' the Day — The mili- tary paraded. Federal Salutes were fired. Public Bodies dined together — Congratulations were mutual, and the 1795] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 305 Father of his Country, received the Felicitations of every class of Citizens, civil, clerical and military." — Gazette of the United States. FRIDAY, JULY 10. At Pliiladelphia : Issues a proclamation granting a full, free, and entire pardon to all persons concerned in the " Whiskey Insurrection," in Western Pennsylvania, who had ffiven assurance of submission to the laws of the United States. The proclamation was not published till the 6th of August. WEDNESDAY, JULY 15. Leaves Philadelphia : " Juli/ 15. — President Washington about eight o'clock this morning set out for Mount Vernon in a two-horse phaeton for one person, his family in a coach and four horses, and two servants on horseback leading his saddle horse." — Diary of Jacob Hiltzheimer. " July 15. — Left Phila* with M" Washington & my family for M' Vernon — Dined at Chester «& lodged at Wilmington. July 16. — Breakfasted at Christ* dined at Elkton — & lodged at Susquehanna — One of my horses over- come with heat. July 17. — Breakfasted before I set out dined at Hartford & lodged at Websters. — bro* on the sick horse led. July 18. — Breakfasted in Baltim* — dined & lodged at Spurriers where my sick horse died. July 19. — Breakfasted at Vanhornes— dined at Bladensburgh & lodged in Geo: Town. July 20. — After doing business with the Com" of the fed* City I proceeded on my journey & got home to dinner." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, JULY 18. At Baltimore : Receives the resolutions, denouncing the Jay Treaty, passed by a meeting of the citizens of Boston, held on the 10th of the month. The resolutions were en- closed to him in a letter from the selectmen of that town dated the 13th. As any negotiation or amicable arrangements with Great Britain were extremely unpopular, the consent of the Senate to the ratification of the treaty was met with virulent opposition, and meetings in Boston, New York, 20 306 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1795 Philadelphia, Baltimore, Charleston, and other parts of the country were held and addresses and resolutions against the measure forwarded to the President. The first meeting of this character was the one held in Boston. Addresses to the chief magistrate and resolutions of town and country meetings were not the only means which were employed on this occasion to enlist the American people against the measures which had been advised by the Senate. An immense number of essays in opposition were written, which the friends of the instrument met by counter-efforts, and the gazettes of the day are replete with appeals to the passions and to the reason of those who are the ultimate arbiters of every political question. FKIDAT, JULY 24. At Mount Vernon : " I have not, as I mentioned to you in my last, heard much respecting the treaty since I left Philadelphia. At Baltimore I remained no longer than to breakfast. In Georgetown my whole time was spent in business with the commissioners ; and in Alexandria I did not stop. Yet the same leaven, that fermented the town of Boston, is at work, I am informed, in other places; but whether it will produce the same fruit remains to be de- cided." — Washington to Edmimd Randolph. WEDNESDAY, JULY 29. At Mount Vernon : " The contents of your letters of the 21st and 24th instant, which I received by Monday's post, the importance of some of their enclosures, and the per- turbed state of men's minds respecting the late treaty with Great Britain, together with the proceedings in some of the principal towns to embarrass the business, have determined me to repair to the seat of government." — Washington to Edmund Randolph. A meeting of the citizens of Philadelphia, for the purpose of passing resolutions against the treaty, was held at the State-House on July 25. After the business of the meeting was closed, a copy of the treaty was suspended on a pole and carried about the streets by a company of people, who at length stopped in front of the British minister's house (Mr. Hammond) and there burnt the treaty, and also before the door of the British consul (Phineas Bond), amidst the huzzas and acclamations of the populace. 1795] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 307 THURSDAY, AUGUST 6. Leaves Mount Vernon : '■^August 6. — Left home on my return to Philadelphia — met the Poto" C° at Geo : Town & lodged there. August 7. — Breakfasted at Bladensburgh — din** at Vanhornes & lodged at Spur". August 8. — Break- fasted at Baltimore — and diiied and loged at Websters. August 9. — Breakfasted at Hartford dined at Susquehanna and lodged at Charles town. August 10. — Breakfasted at Elkton — Dined at Newcastle and lodged at Wilmington. August 11. — Breakfasted at Chester and dined in Phil*." — Washington's Diary. "Expenses of my Journey to Philadelphia. — August 6. — At "Wise's 3.9. Turnpike 1.8. Ferriage Geo : Town 7.6 ; August 7. — Bill at Suters 2.6.7. Servants Do 3.9. Bill at Bladensb'g 8.9. Servants at Do 3.10. Bill at Vanhornes 15.6. Servants Do. 1.10^. Getting horses out of the Mire 1.7.6 ; August 8.— Bill at Spurriers l.U.O. Servants Do 11.7f Ferriage Elk- ridge 2.8. Bill at Baltimore 14.1. Servants at Do 3.9 ; August 9. — Bill at Websters 1.10.6. Servants at Do 2.0. Bill at Hartford 8.9. Servants Do 3.0. Bill at Susquehanna 14.8. Servants at Do 1.10^ ; August 10. — Bill at Charlestown 1.1.8. Servants at D 1.10^. Bill at Elkton 14.6. Servants at Do l.lOf Porter at Mitchells 3.c. Bill at the Bear 3.10J. Ditto at New- castle 11.10. Ferry over Christa 2.10; August 11. — Bill at Wilmington 1.2.10. Servants Do 11.7^. Ferry over Brandy-Wine 2.10. Bill at Chester 10.9. Servants Do 2.0. Ferry over Schuylkill 1.6. Sundries pd for be- sides the above 1.10.11." — Washington's Memorandum-Book. TUESDAY, AUGUST 11. At Philadelphia: ^^ August 12. — The President of the United States arrived in town yesterday at noon." — Dunlap and ClaypooWs American Daily Adveriiser. On the day after the arrival of the President at Philadelphia (August 12) the question respecting the immediate ratification of the treaty was brought before the Cabinet. " The secretary of state maintained singly the opinion, that during the existence of the provision order, and during the war between Britain and France, this step ought not to be taken. This opinion did not prevail. The resolution was adopted to ratify the treaty immediately, and to accompany the ratification with a strong memorial against the provision order, which should convey in explicit terms the sense of the American government on that subject. By this course, the views of the executive were happily accomplished. The order was revoked, and the 308 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1795 ratifications of the treaty were exchanged." — Marshall's Life of Wash- ington, vol. V. p. 633. THURSDAY, AUGUST 20. At Philadelphia : " Your resignation of the office of State is received. Candor induces me to give you in a few words the following narrative of facts. The letter from M. Fauchet, with the contents of which jou were made ac- quainted yesterday, was, as you supposed, an intercepted one. It was sent by Lord Grenville to Mr. Hammond, by him put into the hands of the Secretary of the Treasury, by him shown to the Secretary of "War and the Attorney- General ; and a translation thereof was made by the former for me." — Washington to Edmund Randolph. Late in March, 1795, a French corvette was captured by a British man- of-war oft' Penmarch, and some of M. Fauchet's despatches to his govern- ment were taken. These despatches were sent to the British minister, Mr. Hammond, and by him given to Mr. Wolcott, Secretary of the Treasury, July 28. The intercepted despatch was No. 10, dated 10 Brumaire (October 31, 1794), and purported to give some '•precieiises confessions" of Mr. Ran- dolph on the Western insurrection. The inference from the general tenor of the despatch was, that the Secretary of State had shown himself accessible to a bribe from the French minister, and that he was at heart favorable to the Western insurrection, either from party motives or from others not known. The suspicion thus excited was strengthened by the fact that he had changed his mind respecting the ratification of the " Jay treaty," and had suggested difficulties and promoted delay. M. Fauchet wrote a declaration, however, as soon as it was known to him that his letter had been intercepted, and when he was on the point of leaving the country to return to France, denying in the most positive terms that Mr. Randolph had ever indicated to him a willingness to receive money for personal objects, and affirming that in his letter he had no intention of say- ing anything to the disadvantage of Mr. Randolph's character. On August 19, in the presence of Messrs. Wolcott and Pickering, Wash- ington gave to Mr. Randolph the intercepted despatch, and the Secretary requested an opportunity to throw his ideas on paper. Instead of so doing, he sent in his resignation that evening. SATURDAY, AUGUST 22. At Philadelphia : " The seaport towns, or rather parts of them, are involved, and are endeavouring as much as in 1795] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 309 them lies to involve the community at large, in a violent opposition to the treaty with Great Britain, which is ratified as far as the measure depends upon me. The general opinion, however, as far as I am able to come at it is, that the current is turning." — Washington to James Boss. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8. Leaves Philadelphia : " September 10. — Tuesday last [Sep- tember 8] the President of the United States set out from this city for Mount Vernon." — Dunlap and ClaypooWs Amer- ican Daily Advertiser. " September 8. — Left Phil* for M' Vernon dined at Chester — & lodged at "Wilmington. September 9. — Breakfasted at Christiana dined at Elkton — & lodged at Charlestown. September 10. — Breakfasted at Susquehanna (M" Rogers's) dined at Harford — & loged at Websters. September 11. — Break- fasted at Baltimore dined & lodged at Spurriers. September 12. — Break- fasted at Van Horns Dined at Bladensburgh— «& lodged at George Town. September 13. — Breakfasted in George Town and reached M' Vernon to dinner." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20. At Mount Vernon : "If any power on earth could, or the Great Power above would, erect the standard of infalli- bility in political opinions, there is no being that inhabits this terrestrial globe, that would resort to it with more eagerness than myself, so long as I remain a servant of the public. But as I have found no better guide hitherto, than upright intentions and close investigation, I shall adhere to those maxims, while I keep the watch ; leaving it to those, who will come after me, to explore new ways, if they like or think them better." — Washington to Henry Knox. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25. At Alexandria : " September 25. — Went to Alexandria — dined with M' & M" Lear.* September 26. — Returned home to dinner." — Washington's Diary. * Tobias Lear married Fanny "Washington, widow of George Augustine "Washington, early in August, 1795. His first wife, who died at Philadel- 310 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1795 SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27. At Mount Vernon : " I shall not, whilst I have the honor to administer the government, bring a man into any office of consequence knowingly, whose political tenets are ad- verse to the measures, which the general government are pursuing ; for this, in my opinion, would be a sort of polit- ical suicide. That it would embarrass its movements is most certain. But of two men equally well affected to the true interests of their country, of equal abilities, and equally disposed to lend their support, it is the part of pru- dence to give the preference to him, against whom the least clamor can be excited." — Washington to Timothy Pick- ering. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9. At Mount Vernon : " I can most religiously aver I have no wish, that is incompatible with the dignity, happiness, and true interest of the people of this country. My ardent desire is, and my aim has been, as far as depended upon the executive department, to comply strictly with all our en- gagements, foreign and domestic ; but to keep the United States free from political connexions with every other coun- try, to see them independent of all and under the influence of none. In a word, I want an American character, that the powers of Europe may be convinced we act for ourselves, and not for others." — Washington to Patrick Henry. MONDAY, OCTOBER 12. Leaves Mount Vernon : " I shall set out for Philadelphia this day ; but business with the commissioners of the Fed- eral City will detain me in George Town to-morrow, and of course keep me a day longer from the seat of government, than I expected." — Washington to Timothy Pickering. phia July 28, 1793, was Mary Long, of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, his native place. \ 1795] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 311 ''October 12.— Set out for PhiK October 13.— Stayed at Geo: Town. October 14. — Lodged at Spurriers. October 16.* — Lodged at Websters. October 17. — Lodged at Hartford. October 18. — Lodged at Elkton. October 19. — Lodged at Wilmington. October 20. — Arrived at Phil." — Washing- ton's Diary. TUESDAY, OCTOBEK 20. At Philadelphia : " October 21. — Yesterday afternoon THE PRESIDENT arrived in town from the Southward."— Gazette of the United States. SUNDAY, OCTOBEE 25. At Philadelphia : " I want a Green Pocket book, w"^ is to be found in the hair trunk, which is usually put on my writing Table in the Study, with my Land papers. — The key of this trunk is under the lid of the writing Table. — it is tied to a bunch of other keys by a twine. — This Pocket book is of green parchment, and contains the courses, and distances of many surveys of the grounds &c in, and about my farms." — Washington to William Pearce. This book, which contains seventy-eight closely written pages in the handwriting of Washington, was sold at public sale in Philadelphia, De- cember, 1890, for two hundred and fifty dollars. The sale was made by order of the administrator of the estate of the widow of Lorenzo Lewis, who was the son of Lawrence Lewis and Nelly Custis. The sale included many articles from the household at Mount Vernon which were inherited by Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Lewis. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11. At Philadelphia : ''November 13.— MARRIED. On Wed- nesday last [November 11], by the Rev. Dr. [Robert] Black- well, Major WILLIAM JACKSON, to Miss ELIZA WILLING", daughter of Thomas Willing, Esq. President of the Bank of the United States." — Gazette of the United States. *"■ Baltimore. October 17. — Yesterday morning the President of the United States passed through this town on his way to the seat of govern- ment. We with pleasure add, that this venerable patriot appeared in per- fect health." — Gazette of the United States, October 20. 312 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1795 " The ceremony was performed by Bishop White, assisted by his associate, Dr. Blackwell. Among those present were General and Mrs. Washington, Kobert Morris and his wife, Hamilton, Lincoln, Knox, Vicomte de Noailles, the brother-in-law of Lafayette, and many others who then added so much to the attraction of Philadelphia society." — Pennsylvania Magazine^ vol. ii. p. 366. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19. At Philadelphia : '' The office of Attorney-General of the United States is not yet filled. The reason why it is not, General Lee at my request, will frankly relate to you. If you could make it convenient, and agreeable to yourself to accept it, I should derive pleasure therefrom, both from public and private considerations." — Washington to Charles Lee. Charles Lee, of Virginia, brother of General Henry Lee, was appointed Attorney-General on December 10, succeeding William Bradford, who died August 23, and on the same day Timothy Pickering was appointed Secretary of State in the place of Edmund Randolph. The office of Secretary of War was filled January 27, 1796, by the appointment of James McHenry, of Maryland. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22. At Philadelphia : " It was with sincere pleasure I re- ceived your letter from Boston ; and, with the heart of affection, I welcome you to this country." — Washington to George Washington Lafayette. George Washington Laftiyette, only son of the Marquis de Lafayette, came to the United States late in the summer of 1795, accompanied by his preceptor M. Frestel. He landed at Boston, and immediately informed Washington of the fact, but reasons of state prevented the President from inviting him to his house, which was his first impulse. After leaving Boston, young Lafayette (he was barely sixteen years of age) lived with his tutor for a while in the vicinity of New York, in comparative seclusion. Con- gress at length took cognizance of his presence in the country, and on the 18th of March, 1796, the House of Representatives passed a resolution directing a committee to inquire into the matter, and to report such measures as would be proper " to evince the grateful sense entertained by this country for the services of his father." This committee, through its chairman Ed- ward Livingston, advised him to come to the seat of government, which he did, remaining in Philadelphia until the following spring, avoiding society 1795] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 313 as much as possible, when Washington, on becoming a private citizen, re- ceived him into his family as if he had been his own child. He remained with the family until early in October, 1797, when news of the release of his father from prison caused him to leave for the seaboard to depart for France. In 1824 he accompanied his father on his visit to the United States. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6. At Philadelphia : " By Thursday's post I was favored with your letter of the 27th ultimo, enclosing a Declaration of the General Assembly of Maryland. At any time the expression of such a sentiment would have been considered as highly honorable and flattering. At the present, when the voice of malignancy is so high-toned, and no attempts are left unessayed to destroy all confidence in the constituted authorities of this country, it is peculiarly grateful to my sensibility; and, coming spontaneously, and with the una- nimity it has done from so respectable a representation of the people, it adds weight as well as pleasure to the act." — Washington to John H. Stone, Governor of Maryland. The Declaration of the General Assembly of Maryland, referred to in this letter, was expressed in the following language, and was unanimously adopted by the House of Delegates and the Senate. " Resolved unanimously, that the General Assembly of Maryland, im- pressed with the liveliest sense of the important and disinterested services rendered to his country by the President of the United States ; convinced that the prosperity of every free government is promoted by the existence of rational confidence between the people and their trustees, and is injured by misplaced suspicion and ill-founded jealousy ; considering that public virtue receives its best reward in the approving voice of a grateful j)eopk', and that, when this reward is denied to it, the noblest incentive to great and honor- able actions, to generous zeal and magnanimous perseverance, is destroyed ; observing, with deep concern, a series of efforts, by indirect insinuation, or open invective to detach from the first magistrate of the Union the well- earned confidence of his fellow citizens ; think it their duty to declare, and they do hereby declare, their unabated reliance on the integrity, judgment, and patriotism of the President of the United States. ' ' TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8. At Philadelphia : " December 8. — The Hou^^e [Pennsyl- vania Legislature] adjourned at noon and proceeded to 314 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1795 Congress Hall, where President Washington delivered [in the Hall of the House] his address to the Senate and House." — Diary of Jacob Hiltzheimer. William Cobbett (Peter Porcupine), who was present on this occasions- says in his pamphlet entitled "A Prospect from the Congress-Gallery," published at Philadelphia in 1796, "When the President arrived at the House this day, he found it in that state of composed gravity, of respectful silence, for which the Congress is so remarkable, and which, whatever wit- lings may say, is the surest mark of sound understanding. — The gallery was crowded with anxious spectators, whose orderly behaviour was not the least pleasing part of the scene. " The President is a timid speaker: he is a proof, among thousands, that superior genius, wisdom, and courage, are ever accompanied with excessive modesty. His situation was at this time almost entirely new. Never, till a few months preceding this session, had the tongue of the most factious slander dared to make a public attack on his character. This was the first time he had ever entered the walls of Congress without a full assurance of meeting a welcome from every heart. He now saw, even among those to whom he addressed himself, numbers who, to repay all his labours, all his anxious cares for their welfare, were ready to thwart his measures, and pre- sent him the cup of humiliation, filled to the brim. When he came to that part of his speech, where he mentions the treaty with His Britannic Majesty, he cast his eyes towards the gallery. — It was not the look of indignation and reproach, but of injured virtue, which is ever ready to forgive. I was pleased to observe, that not a single murmur of disapprobation was heard from the spectators that surrounded me; and, if there were some amongst them, who had assisted at the turbulent town-meetings, I am persuaded, they were sincerely penitent When he departed, every look seemed to say : God prolong his precious life." SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12. At Philadelphia : Is waited on by the Senate, and the Vice-President, in its name, presents him with an answer to his address. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13. At Philadelphia : " When you receive the money for my last years flour and Corn, I wish that every demand, of whatsoever nature or kind, may be discharged, — I never like to owe anything, lest I might be called upon for pay- ment when I am not possessed of the means. — A Dun, 1795] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 315 would not be agreeable to me, at any time ; — and not to pay money when it is due, and might really be wanting, would hurt my feelings." — Washington to William Pearce. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17. At Philadelphia : Is waited on by the House of Repre- sentatives of the United States, with an answer to his address. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22. At Philadelphia : "It is wellknown, that peace has been (to borrow a modern phrase) the order of the day with me since the disturbances in Europe first commenced. My pol- icy has been, and will continue to be, while I have the honor to remain in the administration, to maintain friendly terms with, but be independent of, all the nations of the earth ; to share in the broils of none; to fulfil our own engage- ments ; to supply the wants and be carriers for them all ; being thoroughly convinced, that it is our policy and inter- est to do so. Nothing short of self-respect, and that justice which is essential to a national character, ought to involve us in war; for sure I am, if this country is preserved in tranquility twenty years longer, it may bid defiance in a just cause to any power whatever ; such in that time will be its population, wealth, and resources." — Washington to Gouvemeur Morris. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24. At Philadelphia : '•'■Decemher 26. — Last Thursday [Decem- ber 24] I had the honor of dining with the President, in company with the Vice-President, the Senators and Dele- gates of Massachusetts, and some other members of Con- gress, about 20 in all." — Theophilus Bradbury to Mrs. Thomas Hooper. In continuing this letter to his daughter Harriet, wife of Major Thomas Hooper, the writer, who was a member of Congress from Essex County, 316 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1795 Massachusetts, says, " In the middle of the table was placed a piece of table furniture about six feet long and two feet wide, rounded at the ends. It was either of wood gilded, or polished metal, raised only about an inch, with a silver rim round it like that round a tea board ; in the centre was a pedestal of plaster of Paris with images upon it, and on each end figures, male and female, of the same. It was very elegant and used for ornament only. The dishes were placed all around, and there was an elegant variety of roast beef, veal, turkeys, ducks, fowls, hams, «&c. ; puddings, jellies, oranges, apples, nuts, almonds, figs, raisins, and a variety of wines and punch. We took our leave at six, more than an hour after the candles were introduced. No lady but Mrs. Washington dined with us. We were waited on by four or five men servants dressed in livery." 1796. FKIDAY, JANUARY 1. At Philadelphia : Receives from M. Adet, the minister from France, the colors of France, sent by the Committee of Public Safety of the National Convention as a token of friendship to the United States.* The flag, which was directed to be placed in the archives of the govern- ment, is described as follows in the papers of the day : " The flag is tricolor, made of the richest silk and highly ornamented with allegorical paintings. In the middle, a cock is represented, the emblem of France standing on a thunderbolt. At two corners diagonally opposite are represented two bomb- shells bursting, at the other two corners, other military emblems. Round the whole is a rich border of oak leaves, alternately yellow and green, the first shaded with brown and heightened with gold ; the latter shaded with black and relieved with silver ; in this border are entwined warlike musical instruments. The edge is ornamented with a rich gold fringe. The staff" is covered with black velvet crowned with a golden pike and enriched with the tricolor cravatte and a pair of tassels worked in gold and the three national colors." SUNDAY, JANUARY 3. At Philadelphia : " 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 Alex- andria and would be for my interest to bring it hither, rather than sell at an under rate." — Washington to William Pearce. *'^Jany. 1, 1796. — Remarkably mild and pleasant— perfectly clear. Re- ceived the National Colours from M"' Adet the Minister Plenipo. to day : Much company visited." — Washington's Diaiy. 317 318 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1796 SUNDAY, JANUAKY 17. At Philadelphia : " I am under no concern for the fall which has taken place in the price of flour — that it will be up again, and higher than ever in the spring there is but little doubt — indeed some well informed Merchants declare they should not be surprized to find it at twenty dollars p' Barrel at that season. " There can be no question in my mind that herrings will be at 10/. p' Thousand and Shads at three dollars at least p' hundred for which reason, my advice to you is, not to take less from M' Smith, or any other who may oft'er to contract, beforehand." — Washiyigton to William Pearce. MONDAY, FEBEUAKY 1. At Philadelphia : " I feel 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, that they shall have no cause to ac- cuse me of wilful ones. Hoping for the former, I feel no concern on account of the latter." — Washington to Oliver Wolcott, Governor of Connecticut. THURSDAY, FEBKUAKY 11. At Philadelphia: '■^ February 13. — Dr. Priestly is here. I drank tea with him at the President's on Thursday even- ing [February 11]. He says he always maintained against Dr. Price, that old age was the pleasantest part of life, and he finds it so." — John Adams to Mrs. Adams. Joseph Priestley, LL.D., scientist and dissenting minister, came to America in Jvme, 1794, and settled at Northumberland, Pennsylvania, making his home with his sons who had preceded him. Dr. Priestley often preached at Philadelphia, and in the spring of 1796 delivered in that city a series of "Discourses relating to the Evidences of Eevealed Eeligion," which were published the same year. His friend Eichajd Price, D.D., LL.D., to whom allusion is made, was the author of a pamphlet entitled 1796] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 319 " Observations on the Nature of Civil Liberty, Principles of Government, and the Justice and Policy of the "War with America," published at London and Boston in 1776, and of which sixty thousand copies were distributed. Dr. Price also published, in 1785, '• Observations on the Importance of the American Kevolution and the Means of making it a Benefit to the World." He died in London, England, March 19, 1791. FKIDAY, FEBKUARY 12. At Philadelphia : " February 13. — I went with Charles last night to the drawing room. As the evening was fair and mild, there was a great circle of ladies and a greater of gentlemen. General Wayne was there in glor}-.* This man's feelings must be worth a guinea a minute. The Pennsjlvanians claim him as theirs, and show him a marked respect." — John Adams to Mrs. Adams. ^'^Philadelphia, February 8. — On Saturday last [February 6], about five o'clock in the afternoon, arrived in this city, after an absence of more than three years, on an expedition against the Western Indians, in which he proved so happily successful, Major General WAYNE. Four miles from the city, he was met by the three Troops of Philadelphia Light Horse, and es- corted by them to town. On his crossing the Schuylkill, a salute of fifteen cannon was fired from the Centre-square, by a party of Artillery. He was ushered into the city by ringing of bells and other demonstrations of joy, and thousands of citizens crowded to see and welcome the return of their brave General, whom they attended to the City Tavern, where he alighted. In the evening, a display of Fire- Works was exhibited, in celebration of the Peace lately concluded with the Western Indians, and the Algerines ; and also, on account of the Peace concluded by France with several European Powers." — Claypoole^s Atnerican Daily Advertiser. MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22. At Philadelphia : " February 23. — Yesterday being the anniversary of the birth-day of the President of the United States, when he entered into the 64th [65th] year of his age, it was ushered in here by the firing of cannon, ringing of bells, and other demonstrations of joy. In the course of * Gained by his victory over the Indians on the banks of the Miami, August 20, 1794. 320 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1796 the day, the members of both houses of Congress, the Senate and representatives of this state,* the heads of de- partments, foreign ministers, the clergy of every denomina- tion, the Cincinnati, civil and military officers of the United States, several other public bodies, and many respectable citizens and foreigners, waited upon the President accord- ing to annual custom to congratulate him on the occasion. Detachments of artillery and infantry paraded in honor of the day, and in the evening there was perhaps one of the most splendid balls at Rickett's amphitheatre ever given in America." — Glayjpoole's American Daily Advertiser. '■'■Philadelphia, February, 1796. — On General Washington's birth-day, which was a few days ago, this city was unusually gay ; every person of consequence in it, Quakers alone excepted, made it a point to visit the General on this day. As early as eleven o'clock in the morning he was prepared to receive them, and the audience lasted till three in the afternoon. The society of the Cincinnati, the clergy, the officers of the militia, and several others, who formed a distinct body of citizens, came by themselves separately. The foreign ministers attended in their richest dresses and most splendid equipages. Two large parlours were open for the reception of gentlemen, the windows of one of which towards the street were crowded with spectators on the outside. The sideboard was furnished with cake and wines, whereof the visitors partook. I never observed so much cheerfulness before in the countenance of General Washington ; but it was impossible for him to remain insensible to the attention and compliments paid to him on this occasion. "The ladies of the city, equally attentive paid their respects to Mrs. Washington, who received them in the drawing-room up stairs. After having visited the General, most of the gentlemen also waited upon her. A public ball and supper terminated the rejoicings of the day." — Isaac Weld, Junior, Travels through the States of North Afnerica dtiHng the Years 1795, 1796, and 1797. London, 1799. * " February 22. — At noon Speaker [Eobert] Hare of the Senate, and Speaker [George] Latimer of the House, with their members, called on President Washington to congratulate him on his birthday. He stood in the centre of the back room, where he bowed to each member as he passed into the front room, where wine and cake were served. At night the ladies and gentlemen had a dance at Rickett's riding place, southwest corner Sixth and Chestnut Streets." — Diai-y of Jacob Hiltzheinier. 1796] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 321 MONDAY, FEBRUARY 29. At Philadelphia : " February 29. — "We are informed THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES intends visit- ing the Theatre this Evening ; and, the Entertainments are by his particular desire." * — Gazette of the United States. '■'■March 1. — Yesterda}' [February 29] 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 and his fair lady were with us. f . . . After all, persuasion may overcome the inclination of the cliief to retire. But, if it should, it will shorten his days, I am con- vinced. 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 federalists to counterbalance abuse by compliment don't answer the end." — John Adams to Mrs. Adams. FRIDAY, MARCH 4. At Philadelphia : " If the people of this country have not abundant cause to rejoice at the happiness they enjoy, I know of no country that has. "We have settled all our dis- putes, and are at peace with all nations. We supply their wants with our superfluities, and are well paid for doing so. — The earth generally, for years past, has yielded its fruits bountifully. No City, Town, Village, or even farm but what exhibits evidences of increasing wealth and pros- perity; while Taxes are hardly known but in name. Yet by the second sight, — extraordinary foresight, or some other sight attainable by a few only, evils afar ofl:" are discovered * " NEW THEATRE [north side of Chestnut, above Sixth Street]— Bt/ Particular Desire. On MONDAY EVENING, February 29, Will be presented, A celebrated COMEDY (written by the Author of the Drama- tist) called THE RAGE ! To which will be added, A Farce in two acts, called THE SPOIL'D CHILD. The Public are respectfully informed, that the Doors of the Theatre will open at a quarter after FIVE o'clock, and the Curtain rise precisely at a quarter after SIX — until further notice." — Gazette of the United States, February 27. t George Steptoe Washington, a nephew of the President, son of his brother Samuel. He had recently married Lucy Payne, daughter of John Payne, of Virginia, and a sister of Mrs. James Madison. 21 322 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1796 bj these, alarming to themselves; and as far as they are able to render them so, disquieting to others."' — Washington to Gouverneur Morris. THURSDAY, MARCH 24. At Philadelphia: " March 25. — Yesterday I dined at the President's, 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 politics. I find his opinions and sentiments are more exactly like mine than I ever knew before, respecting England, 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 little while to stay in his present situation." — Johi Adams to Mrs. Adams. FRIDAY, MARCH 25. At Philadelphia : " The resolution moved in the House of Representatives, for the papers relative to the negotiation of the treaty with Great Britain, having passed in the aflirmative, I request your opinion, " 1. Whether that branch of Congress has or has not a right, by the constitution, to call for those papers ? " 2. "Whether, if it does not possess the right, it would be expedient under the circumstances of this particular case to furnish them ? " 3. And, in either case, in what terms would it be most proper to comply with, or to refuse, the request of the House?" — Washington to Timothy Pickering, Secretary of State.* The treaty with Great Britain, commonly called Jay's Treaiy, having been ratified in London on the 28th day of October, 1795, and returned to * Sent as a circular to the other members of the Cabinet. 1796] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 323 the United States, a copy of it was laid before Congress, by the President, on the 1st of March. It now became the duty of the House of Kepresenta- tives to make appropriations for carrying the treaty into efiect. The party in the House opposed to the treaty was not .satisfied with the course pur- sued by the President in promulgating it by a proclamation (February 29) before the sense of the House of Representatives had been in any manner obtained upon the subject. A resolution was brought forward by Mr. Liv- ingston (March 2), which, after an amendment by the original mover, assumed the following shape : " Resolved^ 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 negotiated the treaty with Great Britain communicated by his message of the 1st instant, together with the correspondence and documents relating to the said treaty, excepting such of said papers as any existing negotiation may render improper to be disclosed." A debate arose which did not terminate till the 24th of March, when the resolution passed in the affirmative by a vote of sixty-two to thirty-seven, and it was accordingly sent to the President by a committee of the House.* The President replied to the committee " that he would take the request of the House into consideration." The members of the Cabinet were unanimous in advising the President not to comply with the resolution. Each of them stated the grounds of his opinion in writing. During the progress of the debate, Chief-Justice Ells- worth drew up an argument, showing that the papers could not be consti- tutionally demanded by the House of Representatives. A message was therefore framed and sent to the House on the 30th of March, at the con- clusion of which the President said, " 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." A motion to refer the message to a committee of the whole House was carried by a large majority ; and on the 29th of April, | afier a debate which had lasted for two weeks, the question was taken in committee, and deter- mined by the casting vote of the chairman (Frederick A. Muhlenberg) in favor of the expediency of making the necessary laws for canying out the treaty. The resolution was finally carried (April 30), fifty-one voting in the affirmative and forty-eight in the negative. * Edward Livingston, of New York, and Albert Gallatin, of Pennsyl- vania. f The speech of Fisher Ames, made on the 28th of April, advocating the appropriation required for the execution of the treaty, was such a remark- able eflfort that a member of the opposition objected to the taking of a vote at that time, on the ground that the House was too excited to come to a decision. 324 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1796 THURSDAY, MARCH 31. At Philadelphia : " I do not know how to thank you suf- iiciently for the trouble you have taken to dilate on the request of the House of Representatives for the papers relative to the British treaty. ... I had, from the first moment, and from the fullest conviction in my own mind, resolved to resist the principle, which was evidently intended to be established by the call of the House of Representa- tives ; * and only deliberated on the manner, in which this could be done with the least bad consequences." — Washing- ton to Alexander Hamilton. MONDAY, APRIL ll.f At Philadelphia : " I am under promise to Mrs. Bingham to sit for you to-morrow, at nine o'clock, and wishing to know if it be convenient to you that I should do so, and whether it shall be at your own house (as she talked of the State House) I send this note to ask information." — Wash- ington to Gilbert Stuart. The full-length portrait of Washington, as President, painted by Gilbert Stuart in compliance with the above-mentioned request of Mrs. William Bingham, and known as the " Lansdowne Portrait," was executed fur the purpose of presentation to the Marquis of Lansdowne (Lord Shelburne), a great admirer of Washington, and who, during the Revolution, was an active opponent of the policy of Lord North. At this date Stuart had a studio in a house at the southeast corner of Fifth and Chestnut Streets (now included in the Drexel Building), and in this room, in all probability, the sittings were had. The portrait, which will always retain the name of the original owner, is now in the possession of Lord Rosebery, late Prime Minister of England. It is well known through numerous engravings, the first of which, executed by James Heath, was published at London, February 1, 1800. In a letter to Major William Jackson (who married a sister of Mrs. Bing- * That the absent of the House was necessary to the validity of a treaty. ■\ "■ April 13.-1 dined on Monday [April 11] at the President's with young La Fayette and his preceptor, tutor or friend, whatever they call him, whose name is Frestel. . . . There is a resemblance of father and mother in the young man. He is said to be studious and discreet." — Jolui Adams to Mrs. Adams. 1796] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 325 ham), dated London, March 5, 1797, the marquis writes, "I have received the picture, which is in every respect worthy of the original. I consider it a very magnificent compliment, and the respect I have for both Mr. and Mrs. Bingham will always enhance the value of it to me and my familjr. . . . General Washington's conduct is above all praise. He has left a noble example to sovereigns and nations present and U) come. I beg you will mention both me and my sons * to him in the most respectful terms possible. If I was not too old, I would go to Virginia to do him homage." The " Lansdowne Portrait" was brought to this country in 1876, and exhibited at Philadelphia in the Centennial International Exhibition of that year. At that time it belonged to John Delaware Lewis. A replica of this portrait, executed for Mr. Bingham, is owned by the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. SUNDAY, MAY 8. At Philadelphia : " 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 I^eutral conduct towards the Belligerent Powers, from an unwillingness to involve ourselves in "War. . . . We will not be dictated to by the Politics of any JSTation under Heaven, farther than Treaties require of us. "Whether 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 engage- ments 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." — Washirigton to Alex- ander Hamilton. FRIDAY, MAY 13. At Philadelphia: '■'■ May 13. — At one o'clock to-day I called at General Washington's with the picture and letter I had for him. He lived in a small red brick house on the left side of High Street, not much higher up than Fourth * Lord Wycombe, the eldest son of the Marquis of Lansdowne. visited the United States in the latter part of 1791. He was entertained by the President when in Philadelphia. 326 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1796 Street. There was nothing in the exterior of the house that denoted the rank of the possessor. Next door was a hair-dresser." — Diary of Thomas Twin()tg* In continuing the above entry in his diary, Mr. Twining says, " Having stated my object to a servant who came to the door, I was conducted up a neat but rather narrow staircase, carpeted in the middle, and was shown into a middling-sized well-furnished drawing-room on the left of the passage. Nearly opposite the door was the fire-place, with a wood-fire in it. The floor was carpeted. On the left of the fire-place was a sofa, which sloped across the room. There were no pictures on the walls, no ornaments on the chimney-piece. Two windows on the right of the entrance looked into the street. There was nobody in the room, but in a minute Mrs. Washington came in, when I repeated the object of my calling, and put into her hands the letter for General Washington, and his miniature. She said she would deliver them to the President, and, inviting me to sit down, retired for that purpose. She soon returned, and said the President would come presently. Mrs. Washington was a middle-sized lady, rather stout ; her manner ex- tremely kind and unaffected. She sat down on the sofa, and invited me to sit by her. I spoke of the pleasant days I had passed at Washington, and of the attentions I had received from her grand-daughter, Mrs. Law. "While engaged in this conversation, but with my thoughts turned to the expected arrival of the General, the door opened, and Mrs. Washington and myself rising, she said, 'The President,' and introduced me to him. Never did I feel more interest than at this moment, when I saw the tall, upright, venerable figure of this great man advancing towards me to take me by the hand. There was a seriousness in his manner which seemed to contribute to the impressive dignity of his person, without diminishing the confidence and ease which the benevolence of his countenance and the kind- ness of his address inspired. There are persons in whose appearance one looks in vain for the qualities they are known to possess, but the appearance of General Washington harmonized in a singular manner with the dignity and modesty of his public life. So completely did he look the great and good man he really was, that I felt rather respect than awe in his presence, and experienced neither the surprise nor disappointment with which a per- sonal introduction to distinguished individuals is often accompanied. * Thomas Twining, an Englishman by birth, who occupied a prominent position under the British government in the East Indies, made a short visit to the United States in 1796. When at Washington City he called upon Tobias Lear, then residing near Georgetown, who gave him a letter of in- troduction, and also intrusted him with a miniature picture of the President, to be delivered to him. We have no means of ascertaining what portrait this was. Mr. Twining's diary was published at New York in 1894. 1796] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 327 "The General having thanked me for the picture, requested me to sit down next the fire, Mrs. "Washington being on the sofa on the other side, and himself taking a chair in the middle. ... In the course of the conver- sation I mentioned the particular regard and respect with which Lord Corn- wallis always spoke of him. He received this communication in the most courteous manner, inquired about his lordship, and expressed for him much esteem. . . . After sitting about three quarters of an hour, I rose to take leave, when the General invited me to drink tea with him that evening. I regret to say I declined this honor on account of some other engagement — a wrong and injudicious decision, for which I have since reproached myself. . . . The General's age was rather more than sixty-four. In person he was tall, well-proportioned, and upright. His hair was powdered and tied be- hind. Although his deportment was that of a general, the expression of his features had rather the calm dignity of a legislator than the severity of a soldier." — Thomas Twining. MONDAY, MAY 16. At Philadelphia : " May 18.— On Monday last [May 16] Robert Liston, Esq. was received by the President of the United States, as Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Pleni- potentiary from his Britannic Majesty to the United States of America." — Gazette of the United States. TUESDAY, MAY 17. At Philadelphia : " May 21. — Edward Thornton Esq. w^as presented to the President of the United States on Tuesday last [May 17] by the British Ambassador, as his Britannick Majesty's secretary of legation to the United States." — Gazette of the United States. SUNDAY, MAY 29. At Philadelphia : " 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. . . . 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." — Washington to William Pearce. 328 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1796 SATUKDAY, JUNE 4. At Philadelphia: '■^June 4. — On our return [to the city] we met, just below the stone bridge in the meadows, our President, Washington, and lady in a coach and four, two postillions, and only one servant on horseback. In old countries a man of his rank and dignity would not be seen without a retinue of twenty or more persons." — Diary of Jacob Hiltzheimer. SUNDAY, JUNE 5. At Philadelphia: " On "Wednesday last [June 1] 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 tomorrow week : but as this is not certain, and as I shall travel slow, to avoid what usually happens to me at this season — that is — killing or knocking up a horse ; and as we shall, moreover, stay a day or two at the Federal City, it is not likely we shall be at Mount Vernon before the 20**^ or 21=' of this month.— " 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 and nice order." — Washington to William Pearce. MONDAY, JUNE 13. Leaves Philadelphia: ^^ June 13. — The President and family left town this morning for Mount Vernon." — Gazette of the United States. SUNDAY, JUNE 19. At George Town: " George-Town, June 21. — The Presi- dent of the United States arrived in the City of Wash- ington on the 18th instant, and at this place on the 19th. He is accompanied by the Son of his illustrious friend, 1796] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 329 Fayette." — Dunlap and Claypoole's American Daily Adver- tiser, June 27. MONDAY, JUNE 20. At Mount Vernon : " Jane 26. — "We arrived at this place on Monday last [June 20], where it is probable I shall re- main till 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 M" Washington, with whom, in the latter part of Octo- ber, 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. " My house, I expect, will be crowded 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 — besides other strangers." — Washington to Robert Lewis. MONDAY, JULY 4. At Mount Vernon : " The Spanish minister M. de Yrujo, spent two days with me, and is just gone." — Washington to Timothy Pickeriyig. Don Carlos Martinez, Marquis de Casa Yrujo, succeeded Don Joseph Jaudennes as Spanish minister to the United States, but was not formally presented to the President until August 25. He married (April 10, 1798) Sally McKean, a daughter of Thomas McKean, Chief-Justice of Pennsyl- vania 1777-99. Their son, the Duke of Sotomayer, born in Philadelphia, became Prime Minister of Spain. WEDNESDAY, JULY 6. At Mount Vernon : " 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, hardly within those of possibility, that, while I was using my utmost 330 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1796 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 steer- ing a steady course, to preserve this country from the hor- rors of a desolating war, I should be accused of being the enemy of one nation, and subject to the influence of an- other ; and, to prove it, that every act of my administration would be tortured, and the grossest and most insidious misrepresentations of them be made, by giving one side only of a subject, and that too in such exaggerated and indecent terms as could scarcely be applied to a Nero, a notorious defaulter, or even to a common pickpocket." — Washington to Thomas Jefferson. MONDAY, JULY 18. At Mount Vernon : " I hope and expect, that the pro- posed visit from the Cherokee chiefs will be so managed, as not to take place before the month of November. I have already been incommoded at this place by a vitsit of several days from a party of* a dozen Catawbas, and should wish, while I am in this retreat, to avoid a repetition of such guests." — Washington to James Mc Henry. , WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10. At Mount Vernon : " In the course of next week, prob- ably about the middle of it, I expect to commence my journey for Philadelphia ; but, as I shall be obliged to halt a day at the Federal City, and from the heat of the season and other circumstances must travel slowly, it is not likely I shall arrive there before the middle of the following week." — Washington to Timothy Pickering. TUESDAY, AUGUST 16. At Mount Vernon : " I propose to enter upon my jour- ney to Philadelphia to morrow." — Washington to James McHenry, MS. Letter. 1796] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 331 THUKSDAY, AUGUST 18. At Washington City : '■^August 18. — In passing through Alexandria yesterday, on my way to Philadelphia, I saw Col" Fitzgerald, who informed me of a letter he had re- ceived from you." — Washington to James Anderson. James Anderson, to whom the above letter was addressed, succeeded William Pearce as superintendent at Mount Vernon in December. He was acting in that capacity at the time of the decease of Washington, and the last letter written by him, dated December 13, 1799, was to Mr. Anderson. This letter is now in the Ferdinand J. Dreer Autograph Collection of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. SUNDAY, AUGUST 21. At Philadelphia: ''August 22.— The President of the United States arrived in town last evening." — Gazette of the United States. THURSDAY, AUGUST 25. At Philadelphia : " My conduct in public and private life as it relates to the important struggle in which the latter nation [France] is enguged, 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 revo- lution; that I have always given it as my decided opinion, that no nation had a right to intermeddle in the internal concerns of another; that every one had a right to form and adopt whatever government they liked best to live under themselves ; and that, if this country could, consist- ently with its engagements, maintain a strict neutrality and thereby preserve peace, it was bound to do so by mo- tives of policy, interest, and every other consideration, that ought to actuate a people situated as we are, already deeply in debt, and in a convalescent state from the struggle we have been engaged in ourselves." — Washington to James Monroe. •' August 26. — The President of the United States yesterday received the Chevalier Martinez De Yrujo, as Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Pleni- 332 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1796 potentiary from his Catholic Majesty [Charles IV., King of Spain], to the United States of America. " — Gazette of the United States. TUESDAY, AUGUST 30. At Philadelphia : ^^ August 81. — The President yesterday received R. G. Van Polanen, Esq. as Minister Resident of the Batavian Republic." — Gazette of the United States. MONDAY, SEPTEMBEK 5. At Philadelphia : " "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 bro* me here, I hope by Wednesday, or thursday in next week, to leave this, on my return to Mount Vernon." — Washington to William Pearce. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBEK 11. At Philadelphia : " 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, gener- ally, given to me, because they are valuable — rare — or curious." — Washington to William Pearce. SATUKDAY, SEPTEMBER 17. At Philadelphia: Issues his Farewell Address to the people of the United States.* "The end of the same year [1796] witnessed the resignation of the presidency of the United States of America hy General "Washington, and his voluntary retirement into private life. Modern history has not a more spotless character to commemorate. Invincible in resolution, firm in con- duct, incorruptible in integrity, he brought to the helm of a victorious republic the simplicity and innocence of rural life ; he was forced into greatness by circumstances rather than led into it hy inclination, and pre- vailed over his enemies rather by the wisdom of his designs, and the per- severance of his character, than by any extraordinary genius for the art of * The Farewell Address first appeared in Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser for September 19, 1796. 1796] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 333 war. A soldier from necessity and patriotism rather than disposition, he was the first to recommend a return to pacific counsels when the indepen- dence of his country was secured ; and bequeathed to his countrymen an address on leaving their government, to which there are few compositions of uninspired wisdom which can bear a comparison. He was modest with- out diflSdence ; sensible to the voice of fame without vanity ; independent and dignified without either asperity or pride. He was a friend to liberty, but not to licentiousness — not to the dreams of enthusiasts, but to those prac- tical ideas which America had inherited from her British descent, and which were opposed to nothing so much as the extravagant love of power in the French democracy. Accordingly, after having signalized his life by a suc- cessful resistance to English oppression, he closed it by the warmest advice to cultivate the friendship of Great Britain ; and exerted his whole influence, shortly before his resignation, to effect the conclusion of a treaty of friendly and commercial intercourse between the mother country and its emanci- pated offspring. He was a Cromwell without his ambition ; a Sylla without his crimes ; and after having raised his country, by his exertions, to the rank of an independent state, he closed his career by a voluntary relinquishment of the power which a grateful people had bestowed." — Archibald Alison. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 19. Leaves Philadelphia : " September 21. — Monday last [Sep- tember 19] the President of the United States left this city, on his journey to Mount Vernon." — Pennsylvania Gazette. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20. At Lancaster, Pennsylvania : " September 23. — The Presi- dent of the United States arrived here [Lancaster] on Tues- day afternoon last [September 20], and on Wednesday morning at 6 o'clock proceeded on his way to Mount Vernon." — Lancaster Journal. MONDAY, OCTOBER 17. At Mount Vernon : " A few months will put an end to my political existence, and place me in the shades of Mount Vernon under my Vine and Fig Tree ; where at all times I should be glad to see you." — Washington to Landon Carter. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26. At Washington City : " Mrs. Washington desires me to inform you that there was some Butter left in the Cellar, 334 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1796 and some Beef in a Tub which (after supplying James) may be applied to any uses you think proper." — Washmgton to William Pearce. MONDAY, OCTOBER 31. At Philadelphia : " November 2. — On Monday last [Oc- tober 31] the President of the United States arrived in town from Mount Vernon." — Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser. THUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3. At Philadelphia : " November 3. — Gave Geo. W. Fayette for the purpose of getting himself such small articles of clothing as he might want, and not chuse to ask for, 100 Dollars." — Washington's Cash-Book. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3. At Philadelphia : " December 4. — 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 ; among the rest the widow and children of Hanging Maw, a famous friend of our's who was basely murdered by some white people. The President dined four sets of Indians on four several days the last week." — John Adams to Mrs. Adams. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7. At Philadelphia : " December 7. — This day precisely at 12 o'clock the President of the United States met both Houses of Congress in the Hall of the Representatives, where he addressed them in a speech. The President was accom- panied by his Secretary [George Washington Craik], the Secretaries of State, the Treasury and War Departments, and the Attorney-General, &c. The hall was filled at an early hour with the largest assemblage of citizens, ladies and irentlemen ever collected on a similar occasion. The 1796] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 335 English, Spanish, and Portuguese Ministers had Seats as- signed them, and were present." — Gazette of the United States. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10. At Philadelphia : " A few months more, say the 3d of March next (1797), and the scenes of ray political life will close, and leave me in the shades of retirement ; when if a few years are allowed me to enjoy it (many I cannot expect, being upon the verge of sixty-five), and health is continued to me, I shall peruse with pleasure and edification, the fruits of the exertions of the Board [of Agriculture, England] for the improvement of Agriculture ; and shall have leisure, I trust, to realise some of the useful discoveries which have been made in the science of husbandry." — Washington to Sir John Sinclair. MONDAY, DECEMBER 12. At Philadelphia: ^^ December 12. — At 12 o'clock this day, the Senate in a body, waited on the President of the United States, at his house, when the Vice President presented an answer to his speech to both Houses at the opening of the Session." — Gazette of the United States. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16. At Philadelphia : " December 16. — At 2 o'clock this day, the members of the House of Representatives in a body, waited upon the President at his house, and the Speaker [Jonathan Dayton] presented an answer to his address to both Houses." — Gazette of the United States. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17. At Philadelphia : " December 17. — At noon the [Pennsyl- vania] Assembly went to the Presbyterian Church on Market Street [between Second and Third Streets], where Dr. [Benjamin] Rush, a member of the Philosophical Society, pronounced an eulogium in memory of their late president, David Rittenhouse. The church was crowded, 336 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1796 President Washington and lady, with members of Congress being present." — Diary of Jacob Hiltzheimer. "On Saturday [December 17], at twelve o'clock agreeably to appoint- ment, Dr. Rush delivered his Eulogium in the Presbyterian Church in High street, on the late Mr. Rittenhouse. The Doctor commenced his Oration with an account of the birth of the great philosopher whose eulogy he was about to make, and proceeded to give an account of all the material trans- actions of his life, till he came to the awful period of his death, in all which he found occasion to pay the highest tribute of praise to the deceased. In- deed, we believe, we shall be joined in sentiment by all who heard it, in pronouncing the Oration a most masterly composition, and that it was pro- nounced with all the ability of an Orator and with all the feeling of a Friend. The Church was exceedingly full, but very attentive. The Presi- dent of the United States, the Members of Congress, and of the Legislature of this State, the foreign Ministers, the Philosophical Society, Medical Students, &c. were a part of the auditory on this solemn and affecting occasion." — Gazette of the United States, December 20. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18. At Philadelphia : " I had a letter from Mr. Anderson by the last Post, who informs me that it was not in his power to leave the concern he was engaged in at the time I wished him to be at Mount Vernon ; — ^but that he certainly would be there by the 27"* or 28'*' of this month, if he was alive and well. — I wish it may be convenient for you to stay a few days after he comes to give him a thorough insight into the business, and then transfer the directions I have given concerning it to him." — Washington to William Pearce. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23. At Philadelphia : " Yesterday I received your letter of the 16th instant, covering the resolutions of the Senate and House of Delegates of the State of Maryland, passed on the 13th and 14th. The very obliging and friendly terms, in which you have made this communication, merit my sincere thanks." — Washington to John H. Stone, Governor of Maryland. 1796] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 337 Resolutions had been unanimously adopted by the Legislature of Marj- land, approving in the highest terms the public services of the President, and particularly the sentiments advanced by him in the Farewell Address. It was "resolved, that, to perpetuate this valuable present in the most striking view to posterity, it be printed and published with the laws of this session, as an evidence of our approbation of its political axioms, and a small testimony of the affection we bear to the precepts of him, to v/hom, under Divine Providence, we are principally indebted for our greatest political blessings." From the time the President published his Farewell Address till the tenn of the presidency expired he received public addresses from all the State Legislatures which were convened within that period, and also from many other public bodies, expressing a cordial approbation of his conduct during the eight years that he had filled the ofiice of Chief Magistrate, and deep regret that the nation was to be deprived of his services. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28. At Philadelphia : " December 29. — Yesterday at 12 o'clock, a deputation from the Grand Lodge of the Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons in Pennsylvania waited on the President of the United States with an address delivered to him by the Grand Master [William Moore Smith]." — Gazette of the United States. 1797- TUESDAY, JANUARY 3. At Philadelphia : Visits the Globe Mills, situate at what is now the intersection of Germantown Avenue and Girard Avenue.* " 1797. — One of the earliest manufactories in the United States, of any extent, for spinning and weaving flax, hemp, and tow, by water power, was that of James Davenport, put in operation with patent machinery within the last twelve months, at the Globe Mills, at the north end of Second Street, Philadelphia. It was visited at the beginning of the year by Wash- ington and several members of Congress, who were highly pleased with the ingenuity and novelty of the machinery. The President in particular ex- pressed a high opinion of the merits of the patentee, Mr. Davenport ; f and an earnest wish that a work so honorable to the infant manufactories of the Union might be extended to different parts of the country. The labor was chiefly performed by boys." — Bishop's History of American Manufactures from 1608 to 1860, vol. i. p. 71. SUNDAY, JANUARY 8. At Philadelphia : " The first thing I shall do, after I am settled at Mount Vernon, will be to adjust all my accounts of a private nature ; the doing of which, as they ought, has been prevented by public avocations." — Washington to David Stuart. THURSDAY, JANUARY 12. At Philadelphia : " January 13. — Yesterday the Senate of this Commonwealth waited on the President of the * An interesting paper by Samuel H. Needles, entitled " The Governor's Mill and the Globe Mills, Philadelphia," will be found in vol. viii. pp. 279-377 of the Pennsylvania Magazine. t James Davenport received (February 14, 1794) the first patent for any kind of textile machine issued in the United States. 838 1797] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 339 United States and presented him with an Address." — Clay- poole's American Daily Advertiser. THUKSDAY, FEBKUAKY 9. At Philadelphia : " February 9. — I saw the President and Mrs. Washington on Tuesday [February 7], and am to dine there to-daj. They are both extremely well." — James Ire- dell to Mrs. Iredell. " In private, as well as in public, his [Washington's] punctuality was observable. He had a well regulated clock in his entry, by which the move- ments of his whole family, as well as his own were regulated. At his dinner parties he allowed five minutes for the variation of time pieces, and after they were expired he would wait for no one. Some lagging members of Congress came in when not only dinner was begun, but, considerably ad- vanced. His only apology was, ' Sir or Gentlemen, we are too punctual for you ;' or in pleasantrj-, ' Gentlemen, I have a cook, who never asks whether the company has come, but whether the hour has eome.' Washington sat as a guest at his dinner table, about half way from its head to its foot. The place of the chaplain was directly opposite to the President. The company stood while the blessing was asked, and on a certain occasion, the President's mind was probably occupied with some interesting concern, and on going to the table he began to ask a blessing himself. He uttered but a word or two, when bowing to me, he requested me to proceed, which I accordingly did. I mention this because it shows that President Washington always asked a blessing himself, when a chaplain was not present. ' ' — Reminiscences of Ashbel Ghreen. FRIDAY, FEBEUARY 17. At Philadelphia : " February 20.— On Friday last [Feb- ruary 17] the House of Representatives of this Common- wealth waited on the President of the United States with an Address." — Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18. At Philadelphia : " February 18. — At four o'clock I went with the following members of the [Pennsylvania] House [of Representatives] and dined with that great and good man, George Washington, President of the United States, who will retire from office on March 4th next, at which 340 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1797 time John Adams, the present Vice-President, wiU take Ins place : Speaker [George] Latimer, [Joseph] Ball, [Francis] Gurney, [Robert] Wain, and [Lawrence] Seckel, of Phil- adelphia; [Richard] Keys, [Thomas] Boude, [Abraham] Carpenter, and [Jeremiah] Brown, of Lancaster; [John] Hulme, [Theophilus] Foulke, [Ralph] Stover, and [Isaac] Van Horn, of Bucks; [Robert] Frazer, [Thomas] Bull, and [James] Hannum, of Chester ; [William] McPherson, [Alex- ander] Turner, [WiUiam] Miller, and [John] Stewart; of York; and [Samuel] Marshall, of Huntingdon. Our Speaker sat between the President and his lady, and I on the left of the President." — Diary of Jacob Hiltzheimer. WEDNESDAY, FEBKUARY 22* At Philadelphia : " Febmari/ 23. — Yesterday being the anniversary of the birthday of the President of the United States, in which he entered the 65th [66th] year of his age, it was observed here as a day of Festival and Rejoicing. It was ushered in by ringing of bells and firing of cannon. Most of the members of Congress and the Governor and the Legislature of this State in a body congratulated him on the occasion. The Officers of the Militia met at Eleven o'clock at the State-House, and marched from thence to the house of the President to whom they presented an address, and received his answer thereto. They then re- turned to the State-House, and accompanied the Society of the Cincinnati in their visit to the President, who also pre- sented to him an address and received his answer. At twelve o'clock a federal salute was fired. The procession was attended by the uniform military corps, who performed a variety of evolutions on the occasion. "This day has always been observed in this city by * ^^ February 24. — On Wednesday evening [February 22] arrived in town, on a visit to the President of the United States the famous Mohawk Chief Colonel Joseph Brant, and the Seneka Chief Cornplanter. "—C^ay^ooie's Ainerican Daily Advertiser. 1797] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 341 marks of joy and festivity; but this being the last birth day which will return to George Washington, as Chief Magistrate of the Union, it was not onlj' honoured by out- ward marks of joy, but by sensations of a peculiar kind, which are better felt than expressed — they were those of Gratitude and Esteem for Eminent Services. " In the Evening there was a Ball on the occasion at Rickett's Amphitheatre, which for Splendor, Taste and Elegance, was, perhaps, never excelled by any similar En- tertainment in the United States." — Claj/jjoole' s American Daily Advertiser. " Febi-uary 24. — The President's birthday (the 22d) was celebrated here with every possible mark of attachment, affection and respect, rendered affecting beyond all expression, by its being in some degree a parting scene. Mrs. Washington was moved even to tears, with the mingled emotions of gratitude for such strong proofs of public regard, and the new prospect of the uninterrupted enjoyment of domestic life : she expressed herself some- thing to this effect. I never saw the President look better, or in finer spirits, but his emotions were too powerful to be concealed. He could some- times scarcely speak. Three rooms of his house were almost entirely full from 12 to 3, and such a crowd at the door it was difficult to get in. At the Amphitheatre at night it is supposed there was at least 1200 persons. The show was a very brilliant one, but such scrambling to go to supper that there was some danger of being squeezed to death. The Vice President handed in Mrs. Washington, and the President immediately followed. The applause with which they were received is indescribable. The same was shown on their return from supper. The music added greatly to the interest of the scene. The President staid till between 12 and 1." — James Iredell to Mrs. Iredell. " It was the usage, while Washington was President of the United States, for the clergy of the city to go in a body to congratulate him on his birth- day ; and on these occasions he always appeared unusually cheerful. The last time we made such a call, which was about ten days before his retire- ment from office, he said with singular vivacity, ' Gentlemen I feel the weight of years ; I take a pair of sixes on my shoulders this day. ' This great man was not in his proper element when he attempted a pleasant con- ceit. I never witnessed his making the attempt but on this occasion ; and if his allusion, as I suppose must have been the case, was to the fifty-sixes used in weighing heavy articles, it was surely far-fetched and not very obvi- ous. Reentered his sixty-sixth year at this time." — Reminiscences of Ashbel Oreen. 342 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1797 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24. At Philadelphia: " March 1. — An Address of the Legis- lature of the State of Massachusetts, was on Friday last [February 24] presented to the President of the United States by the Senators representing that State in Congress, accompanied by most of the Members of the House of Representatives, from that State.'"' — Claypook's American Daily Advertiser. MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27. At Philadelphia : " February 28. — Yesterday at twelve o'clock the Common Council of this city waited on the President of the United States with an address. And at half past twelve the Select Council waited on the Presi- dent, and presented their address." — Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser. " February 27. — We are informed that the President of the United States will be at the representation of the new comedy, The Way to get Married, this evening, at the New Theatre." * — Idem. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28. At Philadelphia : " February 28. — The President and his family honor the Ladies Concert with their presence this evening." — Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser. THURSDAY, MARCH 2. At Philadelphia : " March 3. — Yesterday the Rector, Church Wardens and Vestrymen of the United Episcopal Churches of Christ Church and St. Peter's waited on the President of the United States with an Address."— C%- poole's American Daily Advertiser. On the following day, March 3, a number of the clergy of the city and vicinity of Philadelphia also presented the President with an address. The * " NEW THEATRE. THIS EVENING, February 27. By particular desire, will be presented, the last new Comedy. The way to get Married ; after the comedy the comic ballet Dermot <^ Kathleen, or Animal Magnet- ism.''^ — Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser. 1797] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 343 Reverend Ashbel Green, referring to this in his Reminiscences, says, " On the 4th [?] of March, when he carried into effect his purpose of retirement, which he had previously announced, the city clergy waited on him with an address ; which, with his answer, was published in the newspapers of the day. Mr. Jefferson in a letter published after his death, speaks of the design of this address, and of the character of its answer, as indicating that "Wash- ington was suspected of infidelity, and broadly intimates that such a sus- picion was just. As to the design of the address, I may be allowed to say, that Mr. Jefferson's remarks are incorrect, since by the appointment of my clerical brethren, it was penned by myself, and I have not a doubt that the whole imputation was groundless." FRIDAY, MARCH 3.* At Philadelphia : " March 2. — To-morrow at dinner I shall, as a servant of the public, take my leave of the Presi- dent elect, of the foreign characters, the heads of depart- ments, &c., and the day following, with pleasure, I shall witness the inauguration of my successor to the chair of government." — Washington to General Knox. Of this dinner. Bishop White, one of the guests, writes, " On the day before his leaving the Presidential chair a large company dined with him. Among them were the foreign ministers and their ladies, Mr. and Mrs. Adams,! Mr. Jefferson, with other conspicuous persons of both sexes. During the dinner much hilarity prevailed ; but on the removal of the cloth it was put an end to by the President, certainly without design. Having filled his glass, he addressed the company, with a smile on his countenance, as nearly as can be recollected in the following terms : ' Ladies and gentle- men, this is the last time I shall drink your health as a public man. I do it with sincerity, and wishing you all possible happiness ! ' There was an end of all pleasaritry. He who gives this relation accidentally directed his eye to the lady of the British minister (Mrs. Liston) and tears were running down her cheeks." % * " March 3. — This evening is Mrs. Washington's last drawing-room, and a very crowded one it will be, though extremely exciting to a person of any sensibility." — James Iredell to Mrs. Iredell. f This is incorrect. Mrs. Adams at this time was at home at Quincy, Massachusetts. X " Memoir of the Life of Bishop White," by Bird Wilson, D.D. Phila- delphia, 1839, p. 191. 344 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1797 SATURDAY, MARCH 4. At Philadelphia : " March 6. — On Saturday [March 4], at twelve o'clock, agreeably to the notification which he gave to both Houses of Congress soon after his election, John Adams, as President of the United States, attended in the Chamber of the House of Representatives, to take his Oath of Ofiice, according to the directions of the Constitution. On his entrance, as well as on the entrance of the late Presi- dent, and of Thomas Jefferson, the Vice President, loud and reiterated applause involuntarily burst from the audi- ence. The President having taken his seat on the elevated Chair of the Speaker of the House of Representatives,* the Vice President, the late President, and the Secretary of the Senate t on his right, the Speaker and Clerk J of the House of Representatives on his left, and the Chief Justice of the United States § and the Associate Judges || at a table in the centre, all the foreign Ministers and Ambassadors, the Heads of Departments, General [James] Wilkinson, the Commander-in-Chief, and a very crowded auditory of the principal inhabitants of this city being present, the Presi- dent proceeded to deliver his Speech. . . . " After concluding his speech, the President descended from his seat to receive his oath of office from the Chief Justice, who pronounced the following constitutional oath with great solemnity, which was repeated by the President in an equally audible and solemn manner. ' I do solemnly swear, that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States, and will, to the best of ray ability, preserve, protect and defend the constitution of the United States.' * Jonathan Dayton, of New Jersey. f Samuel Allyne Otis, of Massachusetts. X John Beckley, of Virginia. § Oliver Ellsworth, of Connecticut. II William Gushing, of Massachusetts; James "Wilson, of Pennsylvania; and James Iredell, of North Carolina. The Judges not present were Wil- liam Paterson, of New Jersey, and Samuel Chase, of Maryland. 1797] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 345 " Having taken his oath, the President again resumed his seat, and, after sitting a moment, rose, bowed to the audience, and retired. After him, followed the Vice Presi- dent (though not without a contest betwixt the late Presi- dent and him with respect to Precedence, the former insist- ing upon the Vice President taking it, and he with great reluctance receiving it). Afterwards followed the members of the Senate, Foreign Ministers, Heads of Departments, Representatives, &c." * — ClaypooWs American Daily Adver- tiser. "On Saturday [March 4] the Merchants of Philadelphia gave a Public Dinner, at Kickett's Circus,t to GEORGE WASHINGTON, in testimony of their approbation of his conduct as President of the United States. — The Company, among whom were all the Foreign Ministers, many of the Mem- bers of both houses of Congress, the Governor of the state, and all the principal merchants of the city, met at Oeller's hotel, J and marched in pro- cession from thence to the place of entertainment. On their entering the Circus, Washington's march resounded through the place, and a curtain drew up which presented to view a transparent full length painting of the late President, whom Fame is crowning with a Wreath of Laurel, taking leave after delivering to her his valedictory address, of the Genius of America, who is represented by a Female Figure holding the Cap of Liberty in her * " March 5. — Your dearest friend never had a more trying day than j^esterday. A solemn scene it was indeed, and it was made affecting to me by the presence of the General, whose countenance was as serene and un- clouded as the day. He seemed to me to enjoy a triumph over me. Me- thought I heard him say, ' Ay ! I am fairly out and you fairly in I See which of us will be happiest !' When the ceremony was over, he came and made me a visit, and cordially congratulated me, and wished my adminis- tration might be happy, successful, and honourable. ... In the chamber of the House of Eepresentatives was a multitude as great as the space could contain, and I believe scarcely a dry eye but Washington's." — John Adams to Mrs. Adams. f Rickett's Circus was first opened (April 12, 1793) at the southwest corner of Twelfth and Market Streets. In the fall of 1795 it was removed to a large circular building erected for the purpose at the southwest corner of Sixth and Chestnut Streets. This was known as Rickett's Amphi- theatre. X South side of Chestnut, west of Sixth Street, adjoining Rickett's Am- phitheatre. 346 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1797 hand, with an Altar before her, inscribed Public Gratitude. In the painting are introduced several emblematic devices of the honours he had acquired by his public services, and a distant view of Mount Vernon, the seat of retirement.* Not less than two hundred and forty persons were present, and a most sumptuous entertainment was provided by Mr. Kich- ardet,t which consisted of four hundred dishes of the most choice viands which money could purchase or art prepare, dressed and served up in a manner which did him the highest credit. Mr. Willing and Mr. Fitzim- mons presided, and the whole was conducted with the greatest order." — Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser. ) THURSDAY, MARCH 9. Leaves Philadelphia : " March 10. — Yesterday morning at 7 o'clock General "Washington and family left this City for Mount Vernon." — Claypoole' s American Daily Advertiser. " March 9. — The President and Mrs. Washington go off this morning for Mount Vernon. Yesterday afternoon he came to make me his farewell visit, and requested me, in his own name and Mrs. W% to present ' their respects' to Mrs. Adams." — John Adams to Mrs. Adams. SUNDAY, MARCH 12. r At Baltimore : " March 13. — ^Last evening arrived in this city, on his way to Mount Vernon, the illustrious object of veneration and gratitude, George Washington. His Ex- cellency was accompanied by his lady and Miss Custis, and by the son of the Unfortunate Lafayette and his preceptor. At a distance from the city, he was met by a crowd of citi- zens, on horse and foot, who thronged the road to greet him, and by a detachment from Captain Hollingsworth's troop, who escorted him in through as great a concourse of people as Baltimore ever witnessed. On alighting at the Fountain Inn, the General was saluted with reiterated and thundering huzzas from the spectators. His Excellency, * This painting was the work of Charles Willson Peale. An engraving of it, executed by Alexander Lawson, was published in the Philadelphia Monthly Magazine for January, 1799. f Samuel Richardet, " master of the City Tavern and Merchant's Coffee House, 86 south second st." — Philadelphia Directory, 1797. 1797] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 347 with the companions of his journey, leaves town we under- stand this morning." — Baltimore paper. -' WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15. At Mount Vernon : " March 19. — "We arrived here on Wednesday [March 15], without any accident, after a te- dious and fatiguing journey of seven days. . . . Grandpapa is very well & much pleased with being once more Farmer Washington.'" — Nelly Custis to Mrs. Wolcott. j SATURDAY, APRIL 1. At Alexandria : Dines by invitation (at Abert's Tavern) with the Ancient York Masons of Alexandria Lodge, No. 22. Returns to Mount Vernon under an escort of mounted troops of the town.^ MONDAY, APRIL 3. At Mount Vernon : " I find myself in the situation nearly of a new beginner ; for, although I have not houses to build (except one, which I must erect for the accommodation and security of my military, civil, and private papers, which are voluminous and may be interesting), yet I have scarcely any thing else about me, that does not require considerable repairs. In a word, I am already surrounded by joiners, masons, and painters ; and such is my anxiety to get out of their hands, that I have scarcely a room to put a friend into, or to sit in myself, without the music of hammers, or the odoriferous scent of paint." — Washington to James McHenry. MONDAY, MAY 15. At Mount Vernon : " To make and sell a little flour an- nually, to repair houses (going fast to ruin), to build one for the security of my papers of a public nature, and to amuse myself in agricultural and rural pursuits, will con- stitute employment for the few years I have to remain on this terrestrial globe. If, also, I could now and then meet 348 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1797 the friends I esteem, it would fill the measure and add zest to my enjoyments; but, if ever this happens, it must be under my own vine and fig-tree, as I do not think it prob- able that I shall go beyond twenty miles from them." — Washington to Oliver Wolcott. MONDAY, MAY 29. At Mount Vernon : " I begin my diurnal course with the sun ; if ray hirelings are not in their places at that time I send them messages of sorrow for their indisposition; having put these wheels in motion, I examine the state of things further; the more they are probed, the deeper I find the wounds, which my buildings have sustained by an ab- sence and neglect of eight years ; by the time I have accom- plished these matters, breakfast (a little after seven o'clock) is ready; this being over, I mount my horse and ride round my farms, which employs me until it is time to dress for dinner, at which I rarely miss seeing strange faces, come as they say out of respect for me. Pray, would not the word curiosity answer as well ? And how different this from having a few social friends at a cheerful board ! The usual time of sitting at table, a walk, and tea, bring me within the dawn of candlelight; previous to which, if not pre- vented by company, I resolve, that, as soon as the glimmer- ing taper supplies the place of the great luminary, I will retire to my writing-table and acknowledge the letters I have received ; but when the lights are brought, I feel tired and disinclined to engage in this work conceiving that the next night will do as well. The next night comes, and with it the same causes for postponement, and so on. . . . Having given you the history of a day, it will serve for a year." — Washington to James McHenry. SATUKDAY, JUNE 24. At Mount Vernon : " I am very glad to hear, that my old friend and acquaintance General Rochambeau is alive, and 1797] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 349 in the enjoyment of tolerably good health. It is some years since I had the honor to receive a letter from him ; but, if it should fall in your way at any time to recall me to his remembrance by the presentation of my best regards to him, which I pray you to accept also yourself, it would oblige me." — Washington to General MatUeu Dumas. THUKSDAY, JULY 6. ' At Mount Vernon : " On the 6th of July I set off, having a letter to the president from his nephew, my particular friend, Bushrod Washington, Esquire. Having alighted at Mount Vernon, I sent in my letter of introduction, and walked into the portico, west of the river. In about ten minutes the president came to me. He wore a plain blue coat ; his hair dressed and powdered. There was a reserve, but no hauteur in his manner. He shook me by the hand, said he was glad to see a friend of his nephew's, drew a chair, and desired me to sit down." — Benjamin H. Latrobe {Dunlap's Arts of Design, vol. ii. p. 475). " After conversing with me for more than two hours, he got up and said that, ' we should meet again at dinner.' I then strolled ahout the lawn, and took a few sketches of the house, &c. Upon my return I found Mrs. Wash- ington and her grand-daughter, Miss Custis, in the hall. I introduced my- self to Mrs. Washington, as the friend of her nephew, and she immediately entered into conversation upon the prospect from the lawn, and ))resently gave me an account of her family, in a good-humoured free manner, that was extremely pleasing and flattering. She retains strong remains of consider- able beauty, and seems to enjoy good health and as good humour. She has no aflectation of superiority, but acts completely in the character of the mis- tress of the house of a respectable and opulent country gentleman. His grand-daughter, Miss Eleanor Custis, has more perfection of form, of ex- pression, of colour, of softness, and of firmness of mind, than I have ever seen before. Young La Fayette, with his tutor, came down some time be- fore dinner. He is a young man of seventeen years of age, of a mild, pleasant countenance, making a favourable impression at first sight. Din- ner was served up about half-past three. . . . "Washington has something uncommonly majestic and commanding in his walk, his address, his figure, and his countenance. His face is however characterized more by intense and powerful thought, than by quick and 350 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1797 powerful conception. There is a mildness about its expression, and an air of reserve in his manner which lowers its tone still more. He is sixty-four, but appears some years younger, and has sufficient vigour to last many years yet. He was frequently entirely silent for many minutes, during which time an awkward silence seemed to prevail in the circle. His an- swers were often short, and sometimes approaching to moroseness. He did not at any time speak with remarkable fluency ; perhaps the extreme correct- ness of his language, which almost seemed studied, prevented that effect. He appeared to enjoy a humorous observation, and made several himself. He laughed heartily several times, and in a very good humoured manner. ' — Benjamin H. Latrobe. i FKIDAY, JULY 7. At Mount Vernon: "Your 'View of the Causes and Consequences of the present War with France,' which you were pleased to send to me through the medium of Mr. Bond of Philadelphia,* has been duly received, and I pray you to accept my best acknowledgments for this mark of your polite attention, particularly for the exalted compli- ment which accompanied it." — Washington to Thomas Ers- kine. V ' The exalted compliment referred to by Washington consisted of the follow- ing sentiment written by Mr. Erskine, afterward the celebrated Lord Ers- kine, on a blank page of his pamphlet: " I have taken the liberty to intro- M ^ '^ duce your august and immortal name in a short sentence which is to be found in the book I send to you. I have a large acquaintance among the most valuable and exalted classes of men ; but you are the only human being for whom I ever felt an awful reverence. I sincerely pray God to grant a long and serene evening to a life so gloriously devoted to the uni- versal happiness of the world." SATURDAY, JULY 15. At Mount Vernon : " Our crop of Wheat this year, from the best information I have been able to obtain, will be found very short, owing to three causes; an uncommon drought last autumn, a severe winter with but little snow to protect it, and which is still more to be regretted, to * Phineas Bond, Consul- General from Great Britain for the Middle and Southern States. 1797] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 351 what with us is denominated the Hessian fly, which has spread devastation, more or less, in all quarters ; nor has the later wheat escaped the rust." — Washington to Sir John Sinclair. SUNDAY, JULY 23. At Mount Vernon : " Your mamma went from here (with your sister Nelly) to Hope Park, on Wednesday, and is as well as usual. Your sister Law and child, were well on that day ; and Mr., Mrs., and Eleanor Peter are all well at this place now, and many others in the house, among whom are Mr. Volney and Mr. William Morris."— Washington to George Washington Parke Custis. "General Washington, who hated free-thinkers, was of course not very disposed to caress Volney, and indeed, as President, had declined to notice the French emigrants. Volney, however, paid him a visit at Mount Ver- non, where he was received bon gre, tnal gre, and entertained with the usual kindness shown to strangers. "When about to depart he asked the general for a circular letter that might procure him aid and attention on the long tour he was about commencing. Washington wrote a few lines, which Volney considered, it was said, either equivocal praise or much too feeble for his exalted merit, hence the degrading manner in which he speaks of that superlatively great man. As well as I remember, the note was in substance thus : ' Monsieur Volney, who has become so celebrated by his works, need only be named in order to be known in whatever part of the United States he may travel.' "* — Recollections of Samuel Breck (1771-1862). Philadel- phia, 1877. TUESDAY, AUGUST 29. At Mount Vernon : " Your grandmamma (who is pre- vented writing to you by General Spotswood and family's being here) has been a good deal indisposed by swelling on one side of her face, but it is now much better. The rest of the family within doors are all well." — Washington to George Washington Parke Custis. * " C. Volney needs no recommendation from Geo. Washington" were the words used. 352 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1797 SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8. At Mount Vernon : " October 8. — Gave G. W. La Fayette a check on the Bank of Alexandria for the purpose of defraying his expenses to France, $300." * — Washington'' s Cash- Book. " October 8. — This letter I hope and expect will be presented to you by your son, who is highly deserving of such parents as you and your amiable lady. . . . His conduct, since he first set his feet on American ground, has been exemplary in every point of view, such as has gained him the esteem, affection, and confidence of all who have had the pleasure of his acquaint- ance. His filial aflection and duty, and his ardent desire to embrace his parents and sisters in the fii-st moments of their release, would not allow him to wait the authentic account of this much desired event ; but, at the same time that I suggested the propriety of this, I could not withhold my assent to the gratification of his wishes to fiy to the arms of those whom he holds most dear, persuaded as he is from the information he has received, that he shall find you all in Paris. " M. Frestel has been a true Mentor to George. No parent could have been more attentive to a favorite son ; and he richly merits all that can be said of his virtues, of his good sense, and of his prudence. Both your son and he carry with them the vows and regrets of this family, and all who know them. And you may be assured, that yourself never stood higher in the affections of the people of this country, than at the present moment." — Washingto7i to the Marquis de Lafayette. FKIDAY, OCTOBER 13. At Mount Vernon : " I suffered every attack, that was made upon my executive conduct, to pass unnoticed while I remained in public office, well knowing, that, if the gen- eral tenor of it would not stand the test of investigation, a newspaper vindication would be of little avail ; but, as im- mense pains have been taken to disseminate these counter- feit letters, I conceived it a justice due to my own character and to posterity to disavow them in explicit terms; and this I did in a letter directed to the Secretary of State, to be filed in his office, the day on which I closed my admin- istration. This letter has since been published in the * George Washington Lafayette and his tutor M. Frestel sailed from New York for France on the 26th of October. 1797] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 353 gazettes by the head of that department." — Washington to William Gordon. In allusion to the republication in 1796 of a series of letters originally- published at London in June, 1777, under the title of " Letters from Gen- eral Washington to several of his Friends in the year 1776, in which are set forth a fairer and 'fuller view of American Politics, than ever yet transpired or the Public could be made acquainted with through any other channel," none of which, however, were written by Washington. These spurious letters, purporting to have been written in the months of June and July, 1776, were seven in number, five addressed to Lund Wash- ington, manager of the Mount Vernon estate, one to Mrs. Washington, and one to John Parke Custis, her son ; " the first draughts, or foul copies," of which were said to have been found in a small portmanteau taken from a servant of the general, at Fort Lee, in November, 1776. These letters were reprinted at New York in 1778, at Philadelphia in 1795, and at London and New York, with other letters, in 1796, with the title: " Epistles, domestic, confidential, and oflScial from General Washing- ton, etc." The appearance of the latter publication called out a letter from Washington (March 3, 1797) to Timothy Pickering, Secretary of State, in which he declared them to be base forgeries, and that he had never seen or heard of them until they appeared in print. MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6. At Mount Vernon : " An eight years absence from home (except occasional short visits to it), has thrown my build- ing, and other matters of private concern, into so much disorder, that at no period of my life have I ever been more engaged, than in the last six or eight months, to re- pair & bring them into tune again." — Washington to Sir John Sinclair. MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13. At Mount Vernon: "The running off of my cook has been a most inconvenient thing to this family, and what rendered it more disagreeable, is that I had resolved never to become the Master of another slave by purchase, but this resolution I fear I must break. I have endeavored to hire, black or white, but am not yet supplied." — Washing- ton to George Lewis. 23 354 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1797 SATUKDAY, DECEMBEK 2. At Mount Vernon : " To have steered my bark amid the intricacies of variegated public employment to a haven of rest with an approving conscience, and, while receiving the approbation of my own country for the part I have acted, to meet similar proofs of it from many of the moderate and virtuous of other countries, consummates my greatest wish and all my ambition, and in my eye is more precious than any thing that power or riches could have bestowed." — Washington to John Luzac, Professor in the University at Leyden. From the beginning of the American Kevolution, Professor Luzac had acted a zealous part in favor of the friends of liberty ; and, as editor of the Leyden Gazette for many years, had ably promulgated the principles of free- dom, and defended the cause and conduct of those who were struggling to establish them. To no pen in Europe were the United States so much in- debted for a just representation of their affairs and defence of their rights as to that of Professor Luzac. MONDAY, DECEMBER 4. At Mount Vernon : " A very severe winter has com- menced, since the first of !N^ovember we have hardly ex- perienced a moderate day; heavy rains following severe frosts have done more damage to the winter grain now growing than I recollect ever to have seen — at this moment and for several days past all the Creeks and small Waters are hard bound with ice — and if the navigation of the River is not entirely stoped is yet very much impeded by it." — Washington to John Marshall, at Paris. 1798. WEDNESDAY, JANUAKY 3. At Alexandria : " January 3. — M" Washington, myself &c^ went to Alexandria & dined with M' Fitzhugh." — WashbigtorCs Diary, MONDAY, JANUAKY 8. At Mount Vernon : " January 8. — A M' Marshall Music Master came here — Tuned Nelly Custis's Harpsicord & returned after dinner." — Washington's Diary. \ " Nelly Custis's Harpsicord," which was presented to her by Washington, is now at Mount Vernon. Lossing, in his Mount Vernon and its Associatio7is, says, "The best teachers were employed to instruct Nelly in the use of the harpsichord, and her grandmother made her practise upon it four or five hours every day. 'The poor girl,' says her brother, the late Mr. Custis, ' would play and cry, and cry and play, for long hours, under the immediate eye of her grandmother, a rigid disciplinarian in all things.' " i MONDAY, JANUAEY 15. At Alexandria : " January 15. — I went to Alexandria to a meeting of the Stockholders of that Bank to an Election of Directors." — Washington's Diary. WEDNESDAY, FEBRUAEY 7. At George Town : " February 7. — "Went to a meet* of the Potomak C° in George Town — Dined at Col" Fitzgeralds & lodged at M' T. Peters. February 8. — Visited the Public build^* in the Morn^ met the Comp^ at the Union Tavern & dined there — lodged as before Weather very cold. Febru- ary 9. — Returned home to Dinner." — Washington's Diary. 355 356 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1798 MONDAY, FEBKUAKY 12. At Alexandria : " February 12. — Went with the family to a Ball in Alex* given by the Citizens of it & its vicinity in commemoration of the anniversary of my birth day." — Washington'' s Diary. The Gregorian, or "New Style" of computing the length of the year, although promulgated in 1582, was not adopted by Great Britain until 1751, nineteen years after the birth of Washington. It was then enacted that eleven nominal days should be omitted ; Wednesday the second of September, 1752, being made the last day of " Old Style," and the next day (Thursday) counted the fourteenth instead of the third. After that date Washington's birthday would be February twenty-second instead of February eleventh. In some localities the '-Old Style" remained in use for a long time, espe- cially in the case of birthdays. The anniversary ball at Alexandria, it will be noticed, was held on the twelfth, in consequence of the eleventh of Feb- ruary, 1798, falling on Sunday. W^EDNESDAY, FEBRUAKY 14. At Mount Yernon : " February 14. — M' Alex' Spotswood & Wife & M^ Fields Lewis * & M' Lear came to dinner the latter returned afterwards. February 15. — M"" Field^ Lewis went away after dinner. February 16. — M'' & M" Spots- wood left us after breakfast." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, MARCH 4. At Mount Vernon : " 3Iarch 4. — Doct' Stuart came to dinner. 3Iarch 5. — Docf Stuart left this, to accompany Washington Custis to S' Johns College at Annapolis." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, MARCH 18. At Mount Yernon : " March 18.— M' Steer Sen' & Jun' Miss Steer & M" Yanhaven dined here & returned to Alex* * Washington's sister Betty, who married in 1760 Colonel Fielding Lewis, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, had six children: Fielding (above mentioned), Betty, who married Charles Carter, George Fielding, Robert, Howell, and Lawrence. There were other children, who died young. Colonel Lewis died December, 1781, and Betty Washington, who was his second wife, died March 31, 1797. 1798] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 357 afterwards, . . . March 19. — Dined with M" "Washington &c* at M' Thomson Mason's." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, MAECH 20. At Mount Vernon : '-'■ March 20. — M' Law* Washington of Chotanck & M'' Law^ Washington of Belmont came to Dinner — Albin Rawlins came to live with me as Clerk." — Washington's Diary. Lawrence Washington, of Chotank, was a descendant of Lawrence the Immigrant, the brother of John Washington, the great-grandfather of General Washington. In bis will the General bequeathed him a gold-headed cane and also a spy-glass carried in the Revolution, designating him as the acquaintance and friend of his juvenile years. Lawrence Washington, of Belmont, Fairfax County, was probably another descendant of Lawrence the Immigrant. TUESDAY, MARCH 27. At Mount Vernon : ^^ March 27. — M' Charles Carroll Jan [son of Charles Carroll of CarroUton] & M' Will™ Lee came to dinner. March 28. — M' Carroll & M'' Lee went away after breakfast & the family here went to dine with M' Nichols." — Washington's Diary. The visit of young Mr. Carroll having given rise at Annapolis to a rumor that it was made with the intention of paying his addresses to Is'elly Custis, her brother wrote to the General in allusion to it, saying, '• I think it a most desirable match, and wish that it may take place with all my heart." In reply, under date of April 15, Washington wrote, "Young M"' Carroll came here about a fortnight ago to dinner, and left us next morning after breakfast. If his object was such as you say has been reported, it was not declared here; and therefore, the less is said upon the subject, particularly by your sister's friends, the more prudent it will be until the subject developes itself more." But youthful alliances are not always made at the nod of Dame Rumor, nor are they always controlled by the wishes of relatives. Nelly Custis married, February 22, 1799, at Mount Vernon, Lawrence Lewis, a nephew of Washington ; and Charles Carroll, Junior, found, in the following year, a bride at Philadelphia in Harriet, a daughter of Benjamin Chew. 358 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1798 SATURDAY, MARCH 31. At Mount Vernon : " March 31. — A M' Tevot a French Gentleman recom'* by Count de Rochambeau dined here — & a M"" [Jonathan] Freeman Member in Congress from N : Hamp. came in the afternoon & returned,'' — Washington's Diary. FRIDAY, APRIL 13. At Mount Vernon : ^^ April 13. — Gen' Lee came to dinner & Col** Heath & son in the after". April 14.— Gen' Lee & Col" Heath went away after breakfast." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, APRIL 16. At Alexandria : ^^April 16. — I went to Alex* to an Elec- tion of Delegates for the C^^ of Fairfax — voted for Mess" West & Jn" Herbert — returned to Dinner. 3Iay 9. — I went to the Proclam" sermon in Alexandria." — Washington's Diary. WEDNESDAY, MAY 16. At Mount Vernon : " A century hence, if this country keeps united (and it is surely its policy and interest to do it), will produce a city, though not as large as London, yet of a magnitude inferior to few others in Europe, on the banks of the Potomac, where one is now establishing for the permanent seat of the government of the United States, between Alexandria and Georgetown, on the Maryland side of the river; a situation not excelled, for commanding prospect, good water, salubrious air, and safe harbour, by any in the world ; and where elegant buildings are erecting and in forwardness for the reception of Congress in the year 1800."— Washington to Mrs. S. Fairfax.*- * Mrs. Fairfax (Sally Gary) was the widow of George William Fairfax, of " Belvoir," the neighbor and early friend of Washington. The Fairfaxes left Virginia in 1773, and settled at Bath, England, where Mr. Fairfax died. 1798] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 359 SATURDAY, MAY 19. At Hope Park : * " May 19.— About 8 Oclock in the fore- noon M" "Washington & myself sat out on a visit to Hope Park & the Federal City. — Got to the former to Dinner and remained there until Morning when we proceeded to the City." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, MAY 20. At Washington City: ''May 20.— Dined at M' Tho» Peter's & remained there until Wednesday, and then went to M'' Law's & remained there until friday [May 25] when we sat out on our return home & called at Mount Eaffle to take our leave of the Rev^ M' Fairfax who was on the point of Embarking for England." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, MAY 27. At Mount Yernon : " An absence for more than eight days from home, on a visit to our friends in the Federal City, is offered as an apology for my not giving your polite and obliging favor of the 9th instant an earlier acknowl- edgment. I pray you now, my good Sir, to accept my best thanks for the pamphlet, and the song which accompanied it." — Washington to Joseph Hopkinson. The song referred to in the above-quoted letter was the national air, "Hail Columbia," the words of which were written by Joseph Hopkinson, and adapted to the music of the " President's March," composed in 1789 by a German named Feyles, who at the time was the leader of the orchestra at the John Street Theatre in New York. " Hail Columbia" was first sung at the Chestnut Street Theatre, Philadelphia, by Gilbert Fox on the evening of Wednesday, the 25th of April, 1798.t Judge Hopkinson, alluding to the April 3, 1787. Mrs. Fairfax, for whom Washington in his early days had a sincere admiration, died at Bath in 1811. * Five miles northwest of Fairfax Court-House. Hope Park was the residence of Dr. David Stuart, who married the widow of John Parke Custis. For some time after their marriage (1783) the Stuarts lived at Abingdon, near Alexandria. t " New Theatre. ME. FOX'S NIGHT. This Evening, April 25, BY DESIEE. THE ITALIAN MONK. . . . End of the Play, ' More Sack. ' 360 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1798 song in his letter to "Washington of May 9, said, "As to the song it was a hasty composition, and can pretend to very little extrinsic merit — yet I believe its public reception has at least equalled anything of the kind. The Theatres here and at New York have resounded with it night after night, and men and boj^s in the streets sing it as they go. " > TUESDAY, MAY 29. At Alexandria : " Ma}/ 29. — Went up to Alex* on busi- ness & returned home to dinner." — Washington's Diary. THUKSDAY, MAY 31. At Mount Vernon : ''May 31. — M' Delivs of Bremen & a M' Pekmoller of Hamburgh dined here & returned after- wards." — Washington's Diary. A letter from one of these gentlemen, written in 1858, at the age of eighty- four, is quoted on page 460 of Custis's Recollections of Washington, in which, after referring to some pictures of the "Washington family which hung in his hall, he says, " They vividly call to my mind the day — the proudest of my life— that I passed upon the beautiful banks of the Potomac, in the family of the best and greatest personage that the world has ever produced. It was in May, 1798, now nearly sixty-one years ago. I was seated at his right hand at dinner, and I recollect as distinctly his majestic bearing as if it were yesterday. Though of mortality, his overpowering presence in- spired an impression that he belonged to immortality. His stateliness, his serene face, the perfect simplicity of his manners, his modest demeanor, and the words of wisdom which he uttered, led me irresistibly to the belief that he was an emanation from the Omnipotent, for the marvellous work that he had just then consummated. It was my good fortune to contemplate him in his retirement — after he had left nothing undone that he could perform for the republic of his creation, and after he had quitted office for ever ! "What a privilege I enjoyed in being his welcome guest ! Of the 240,000,000 of people in Europe, I imagine I am the only person, since the death of La- fayette, who was so favored as to break bread and take wine with Washing- ton at his own table." An Epilogue, in the character of Sir John Ealstaff, to be spoken by Mr. "Warren. After which, an intire new song, (written by a Citizen of Phila- delphia) to the tune of the ' President's March,' will be sung by Mr. Fox ; accompanied by the full band, and a grand chorus," — Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser, Wednesday, April 25, 1798. 1798] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 361 SATUKDAY, JUNE 2. At Mount Vernon : " June 2. — M' Law & a Polish Gen- tleman [Mr. Niemcewitz] the Companion of General Kos- ciaski came here to dinner, as did Miss Lee of Green Spring * with Nelly Custis who returnd to day [from Hope Park]." — Washington's Diary. WEDNESDAY, JULY 4. At Alexandria : " July 4. — "Went up to the Celebration of the Anniversary of Independance and ditied in the Spring Gardens near Alex' with a large Comp* of the Civil & Military of Fairfax County." — Washington's Diary. " Alexandria, July 7. — The 23d Anniversary of American Independence was celebrated by the inhabitants of this town, on "Wednesday last, with the greatest harmony and conviviality. — Every thing conspired to render the business of the day a varied scene of patriotism and social joy ; and the dig- nified presence of the beloved WASHINGTON, our illustrious neighbor, gave such a high colouring to the tout ensemble, that nothing was wanting to complete the picture. The auspicious morning was ushered in by a dis- charge of sixteen guns. At 10 o'clock the uniform companies paraded ; and, it must be acknowledged, their appearance was such as entitles them to the greatest credit, while it reflects honor on their officers and the town — it was perfectly military : . . . The different corps were reviewed in King street by General Washington, and Col. Little, who expressed the highest satisfac- tion at their appearance and manoeuvring ; after which they proceeded to the Episcopal Church, where a suitable discourse was delivered by the Rev. Dr. Davis. Of this discourse I may say, with the expressive Collins, it was " ^Warm, energetic, chaste, sublime.^ " A dinner was prepared at Spring Gardens by Mr. John Stavely ; which, considering the number of citizens and military that partook of it (between 4 and 500) was conducted with the greatest propriety and decorum. — :Lud- well Lee, esq. presided at the head of the table — the foot was honored by Col. Charles Little. . . . GEN. WASHINGTON was escorted into town by a detachment from the troop of Dragoons. He was dressed in full uni- form, and appeared in good health and spirits. The troops went through a number of military evolutions during the day, with all of which the General * Cornelia Lee, daughter of William Lee, a brother of Richard Henry Lee. 362 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1798 was particularly pleased, and bestowed many encomiums on their martial appearance." — Claypoole's Americmi Daily Advertiser, July 19. \ THURSDAY, JULY 5. At Mount Vernon : " The President's letter to me [of June 22], though not so expressed in terms, is nevertheless strongly indicative of a wish, that I should take charge of the military force of this country; and, if I take his mean- ing right, to aid also in the selection of the general officers. The appointment of these is important, but of those of the general staff all-important; insomuch that, if I am looked to as the commander-in-chief, I must be allowed to choose such as will be agreeable to me. To say more at present would be unnecessary ; first, because an army may not be wanted ; and, secondly, because I might not be indulged in this choice if it was." — Washmgton to James Mc Henry. On the 28th of May a law was passed by Congress, authorizing the Presi- dent, " in the event of a declaration of war against the United States, or of actual invasion of their territory by a foreign power, or of imminent danger of such invasion discovered in his opinion to exist, before the next session of Congress, to cause to be enlisted, and to call into actual service, a number of troops not exceeding ten thousand non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates, to be enlisted for a term not exceeding three years." Au- thority was also given to the President to organize the army, with a suit- able number of major-generals and other officers, into corps of artillery, cavalry, and infantry; and, in short, to make every arrangement for pre- paring the forces for actual service. This was called a Provisional Anny. The measure was adopted in consequence of the threatening aspect of affairs between France and the United States. The causes and particulars are briefly stated in Marshall's Life of Washington, vol. v. pp. 735-746. FRIDAY, JULY 6. At Mount Vernon : ^'July 6.— Doctors Thornton* & Dal- son — M"" Ludwell Lee, Lady & Miss Armistead, & M" David * Dr. "William Thornton, a West Indian by birth. He was educated as a physician and lived for many years in Philadelphia. Dr. Thornton, who was a skilled architect, drew the plans and superintended the erection, in its early stages, of the first Capitol building at Washington City. He was the first head of the Patent Office. 1798] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION 363 Randolph & a Son of Col° R. Kidder Mead * came here to Dinner, the two last proceeded to Alex* afterwards. July 7. — M' R. Bland Lee & M' Hodgden came here to dinner & M' Ludwell Lee & Lady went away after Din." — Wash- ington's Diary. THURSDAY, JULY 12. At Mount Yernon : " July 12. — The following Comp^ dined here Col"' Fitzgerald & Simms M' Herbert & Son — Doct' Craik & Son — M' L : Lee Col Ramsay — Cap Young & L* Jones M' Potts W"" Wilson, M' Porter Doct' Cook M' Riddle M' Lear M"" Tracy — & six Ladies & 4 Gent" from M' Rogers." — Washington'' s Diary. FRIDAY, JULY 13. At Mount Vernon : " I had the honor, on the evening of the ll*** instant, to receive from the hands of the Secretary of War f your favor of the 7th. announcing that you had, with the advice and consent of the Senate, appointed me lieutenant-general and commander-in-chief of all the armies raised or to be raised for the service of the United States. | " I cannot express how greatly affected I am at this new proof of public confidence, and the highly flattering manner in which you have been pleased to make the communica- tion ; at the same time I must not conceal from you my earnest wish, that the choice had fallen on a man less de- clined in years, and better qualified to encounter the usual vicissitudes of war." — Washington to John Adams, President of the United States. * Richard Kidder Meade, an aide to General "Washington in the Revolu- tion, and the father of William Meade, Protestant Episcopal Bishop of Virginia, 1841-62. f " July 11. — M' M^Henry — Sec? of War came in the evening. July 14. — The Secy of War left this after dinner." — Wanhingion's Diary. X On the 2d of July the President nominated to the Senate "George Washington, of Mount Vernon, to be Lieutenant General and Commander in Chief of all the armies raised or to be raised, in the United States." The nomination was unanimously confirmed by the Senate the next day. 364 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1798 In continuing this letter, Washington said, " It was not possible for me to remain ignorant of, or indiiferent to recent transactions. The conduct of the Directory of France towards our country, their insidious hostilities to its government, their various practices to withdraw the affections of the people from it, the evident tendency of their arts and those of their agents to countenance and invigorate opposition, their disregard of solemn treaties and the laws of nations, their war upon our defenceless commerce, their treatment of our minister of peace, and their demands amounting to tribute, could not fail to excite in me corresponding sentiments with those which my countrymen have so generally expressed in their aflectionate addresses to you. Believe me, Sir, no one can more cordially approve of the wise and prudent measures of your administration. They ought to inspire universal confidence, and will no doubt, combined with the state of things, call from Congress such laws and means, as will enable you to meet the full force and extent of the crisis. " Satisfied, therefore, that you have sincerely wished and endeavoured to avert war, and exhausted to the last drop the cup of reconciliation, we can with pure hearts appeal to Heaven for the justice of our cause, and may con- fidently trust the final result to that kind Providence, which has heretofore and so often signallj^ favored the people of these United States. "Thinking in this manner and feeling how incumbent it is upon every person of every description to contribute at all times to his country's welfare, and especially in a moment like the present, when every thing we hold dear is so seriously threatened, I have finally determined to accept the commis- sion of commander-in-chief of the armies of the United States ; * with the * " John Adams President of the United States of America To all who shall see these Presents Greetings : Know Ye, That reposing special Trust and Confidence in the Patriotism, Valour, Fidelity and Abilities of George Washington I have nominated and by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, do appoint him Lieutenant General and Commander in Chief of all the Armies raised or to be raised for the Service of the United States : He is therefore carefully and diligently to discharge the Duty of Lieutenant General & Commander in Chief by doing and performing all Manner uf Things thereunto belonging: And I do Strictly charge and require all Ofiicers and Soldiers under his Command, to be obedient to his orders as Lieutenant General & Commander in Chief: And he is to observe and Follow such Orders and Directions from time to time, as he shall receive from me, or the Future President of the United States of America, This Commission to continue in Force during the Pleasure of the President of the United States for the Time being. Given under my Hand, at Philadel- phia this Fourth day of July in the Year of our Lord One thousand seven Hundred and ninety eight and in the twenty third Year of the Indepen- dence of the LTnited States. u jqjjj^ Adams "James McHenry, Secry. of War." 1798] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 365 reserve only, that I shall not be called into the field until the army is in a situation to require my presence, or it becomes indispensable by the urgency of circumstances." FRIDAY, JULY 20. At Alexandria : " July 20. — Went up to Alex* with M" W. k Miss Cus[tis], dined at Doct' Craiks ref* in y" aft"."— Washington's Diary. WEDNESDAY, JULY 25. At Mount Vernon : " I little imagined, when I took my last leave of the walks of public life, that any event could bring me again on a public theatre. But the unjust con- duct of France towards these United States has been and continues to be such, that it must be opposed by a firm and manly resistance, or we shall not only hazard the subjuga- tion of our government, but the independence of our nation also ; both being evidently struck at by a lawless, domineer- ing power, which respects no rights, and is restrained by no treaties, when it is found inconvenient to observe them." — Washington to Dr. James Anderson. FRIDAY, JULY 27. At Mount Vernon : " The Greyheads of Alexandria, pretty numerous it seems, and composed of all the respect- able old People of the place; having formed themselves into a company for the defence of the Town & its Vicinity, are in want of Colors ; and it being intimated that the Presentation of them by Mrs. Washington would be flat- tering to them ; I take the liberty of requesting the favor of you to have made and sent to me as soon as it is con- venient, such as will be appropriate to the occasion. Hand- some, but not more expensive than becomes Republicans (not Bachite Republicans) is req^. If you think a Motto would be proper, the choice of one ' chaste & unassuming' — is left to your own judgment." — Washington to James McHenry. 366 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1798 "ALEXANDRIA, November 1.— Tuesday last [October 30], being the anniversary of the birth day of our beloved and patriotic President John Adams, was observed in this town with military honours. The uniform companies of militia, and the company of Silver Grays, went through a variety of manoeuvres and evolutions, under the command of Captain George Deneale. After firing several rounds in evidence of their attach- ment to this good man, as well as to shew that they approbated his conduct towards the insidious French Directory, they retired in the evening with the utmost decorum and harmony. " A stand of colours, presented by the respected consort of our venerable Cincinnatus to the company of Silver Grays, tvas displayed for the first time on that day ; and, though a variety of incidents prevented their being en- tirely completed, they had a very elegant appearance. The colours are com- posed of white silk ; the device is, however, on an azure blue ground. The Golden Eagle of America has a portrait of General "Washington * suspended from its beak, in one talon a bunch of arrows, in the other a branch of olive, and is surmounted by sixteen Stars, indicative of the number of States ! The motto— ' FIRM IN DEFENCE OF OUR COUNTRY 1'"— ^^3/- poole's American Daily Advertiser, November 6. MONDAY, AUGUST 6. At Alexandria: ^^ August 6. — Went to Alex* to a meeting of the Pot° C° — M' Bur : Bassett came home with me." — Washington's Diary. FRIDAY, AUGUST 10. At Mount Vernon : " Little did I think when mj Vala- dictory address was presented to the people of the United States that any event would occur in my day that could draw me from the peaceful walks and tranquil shades of Mount Vernon : where I had fondly hoped to spend the remnant of a life, worn down with public cares, in rumi- nating upon the variegated scenes through which I have passed and in the contemplation of others which are yet in embrio. I will hope however that when the Despots of * " In the account of the presentment of a flag by Mrs. "Washington, to the Silver Grays, published a few days since under the Alexandria head, in our paper, there was an error. Among other emblems, the flag contained a strong likeness of President Adams, and not of General "Washington, as there stated." — Claypoole^s Americayi Daily Advertiser, November 14. 1798] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 367 France find how mucli they have mistaken the American character, and how much they have been deceived by their partizans among us, that their senses will return to them and an appeal to arras for the purpose of repeling an Inva- sion at least will be rendered unnecessary." — Washington to William Vans Murray. MONDAY, AUGUST 20. At Mount Vernon : " August 20. — No ace* kept of the weather &c* from hence to the end of the Month — on ace* of my Sickness which commenced with a fever on the 19*'' & lasted until the 24*'' which left me debilitated." — Wash- ington's Diary. ^'September 3. — My last to you was dated the 20'*" of August; two days previous to which I had been seized with a fever, which I endeavoured to shake off by pursuing my usual rides and occupations ; but it continued to increase upon me ; when on the 21" at night Dr. Crailc was called in, who it seems chose to have assistance, and on the 24"' procured such a remission as to admit bark. Since which I have been in a convalescent state, but too much debilitated to be permitted to attend much to business." — Washingtoii to James McHenry. MONDAY, SEPTEMBEK 3. At Mount Vernon : " September 3. — In the Morning to breakfast came Gen' [John] Marshall & M'' Bushrod Wash- ington — and to dinner the At^ Gen' Cha' Lee M' Herbert M"" Keith & Doc Craik." — Washington's Diary. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBEK 5. At Mount Vernon : " September 5. — Gen' Marshall & M' B. "Washington went to a dinner in Alex' given to the former by the Citizens there & returned. September 6. — M" Marshall & M' B. Washington went away before break- fast." — Washington's Diary. John Marshall (Chief-Justice of the United States, 1801-35) was appointed in June, 1797, an envoy to France, in conjunction with Charles Cotesworth 368 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1798 Pinckney and Elbridge Gerry. The envoys arrived at Paris in October, and were shortly approached by secret agents (X. Y. Z.) of Talleyrand with a demand for money, — fifty thousand pounds sterling for private account and a loan to the government. These suggestions were repelled with in- dignation, and a paper prepared by Mr. Marshall was sent to the minister, which set forth with great precision and force of argument the views and requirements of the United States and their earnest desire for maintaining friendly relations with France. But it availed nothing, and Pinckney and Marshall, who were Federalists, were ordered to leave the territory of France, while Gerry, as a Kepublican, was allowed to remain. The news of these events was received in this country with the deepest indignation, and when Mr. Marshall returned in June, 1798, he was everywhere received with marks of the highest respect and approval for the course he had pur- sued. The public dinner given to him at Alexandria, noted in the Diary, was one of other demonstrations of a like character, that given at Philadel- phia on June 23 being noteworthy in consequence of the introduction of Mr. Pinckney's celebrated sentiment, " Millions for defence, but not a cent for tribute," as one of the toasts. THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 20. At Washington City : " Septe^nber 20. — Went up to the Federal City — Dined & lodged at M' Tho' Peters. Septem- ber 21. — Examined in company with the Com" some of the Lots in the Vicinity of the Capital & fixed upon N° 16 in 634 to build on. Dined & lodged at M'' Laws. September 22. — Came home with M' T. Peter wife & 2 children to Dinner." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30. At Alexandria : " September 80. — Went to Church in Alex*." — Washington's Diary. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 5. At Mount Vernon : " October 5. — Doct' Thornton — M' Law and a M'' Baldo a Spanish Gentleman from the Ha- vanna came to Dinner. October 6. — M' Bushrod Washing- ton & Capt" Blackburn came to dinner & M"" Tho' Peter returned in the afternoon from New Kent. October 7. — M"' B. Washington & Capt" Blackburn went away after Breakf*." — Washington'' s Diary. 1798] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 369 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9. At Washington City : " October 9''' 10 and eleventh absent — in the Federal City." — Washington'' s Diary. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13. At Mount Vernon : " October 13. — Gen^ Lee, Capt° Pres- ley Thornton & M' T. Peters came to dinner. October 14. — Gen^ Lee & Capt° Thornton went away after breakfast & M' Booker came at Night." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16. At Mount Vernon : " October 16. — The Attorney Gen^ of the United States Lee and Lady & M' W" Craik dined here & ret"*." — Washington's Diary. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18. At Mount Vernon : " My opinion always has been (how- ever necessary to be in a state of preparation) that no formidable invasion is to be apprehended from France, while Great Britain and that country are at War ; not from any favorable disposition the latter has towards us, but from actual inability to transport Troops and the Munitions of War, while their ports are blockaded. That they would willingly, and perhaps necessarily, employ their forces in such an enterprise in case of Peace I have little doubt, un- less adverse fortune in their foreign relations — a Revolu- tion at home — or a wonderful change of sentiment in the governing powers of their country, should take place." — Washington to Timothy Pickering. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 28. At Mount Vernon : " October 28.— The Att'' Gen^ U. S. M' Jn° Hopkin & M' Ch' T. Mercer dined here & returned." — Washington'' s Diary. MONDAY, NOVEMBER 5. Leaves Mount Vernon : " November 5. — I set out on a journey to Phil^ about 9 oclock with M' Lear my Sec- 24 370 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1798 retary — was met at the Turupike by a party of horse & escorted to the Ferry at George Town where I was rec*^ with MiHtary honors lodged at M' T. Peters." — Wasldng- toyi's Diary. " Alexandria, November 6. — Yesterday about 11 o'clock, arrived in town, on his way to the seat of the Federal Government — his excellency Lieuten- ant-General GEOKGE WASHINGTON, accompanied by his Secretary Colonel Lear. He was met at West End and escorted into town by Colonel- Fitzgerald's and Captain Young's troops of cavalry, and the company of Alexandria blues, under the command of Captain Piercey. When he alighted at Gadsby's tavern, the blues fired a continental salute of 16 rounds. The troops of horse escorted the General to the ferry at George Town where the George Town troop were in waiting to pay him the same token of re- spect." — Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser, November 10. " George Town, November 6.— Lieutenant General WASHINGTON ar- rived on the Virginia shore of the Potomak, yesterday, about 1 o'clock ; to which place he was escorted by a party of horse from Alexandria. Five gentlemen of George Town, in uniform, received him into a yawl and passed the river while the infantry and artillery on the Maryland side by several discharges, honoured their illustrious chief. The George Town troop of horse and the other military companies then escorted him into the city of Washington, and after firing a number of rounds, they and the whole as- semblage of spectators retired. This morning early he who ' amidst all plaudits takes command' resumed his journey, attended by the horse. "The warriors of Homer were aided by the Gods — oratory and poetry awoke the spirits of ' departed heroes ; ' and perhaps nothing on earth more nearly resembles obtaining the aid of the immortal heroes of Elysium, than when a WASHINGTON, venerable from age, from experience and from former services — surrounded by virtues and glory, leaves ' his choice re- treat' and 'blest abode,' for the cares of mortals and military scenes." — Idem. TUESDAY, NOVEMBEK 6. At Spurrier's Tavern : " November 6. — Breakfasted at Bladensburgh — dined & lodged at Spurriers Escorted by horse." — Washingtoiv' s Diary. Wednesday;' NOVEMBER 7. At Baltimore : " November 7. — Breakfasted at Baltimore — dined at Websters, & lodged at Hartford — Met at Spur- riers by the Baltimore horse & escorted in and out by the 1798] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 371 same — Viewed a Brigade of Militia at Bait*." — Washing- tori's Diary. ^'■Baltimore, November 7. — This morning arrived in town, the Chief who unites all hearts. He left Spurriers pretty early, and lighted at Bryden's about 8 o'clock, escorted in by Captains Hollingsworth's and Bentalon's troops, who went out last evening for that purpose. About 10, the 5th and 27th regiments (as many as from the shortness of the notice could get ready) had the gratification of being reviewed by him in Market street, much to the satisfaction of a large concourse of spectators who thronged around him, again to behold at once the venerable Cincinnatus and com- mander in chief of America. The City Company, capt. Harris, waited on the general at his quarters, personally to congratulate him on once more seeing him among them in health, and made open ranks for him to pass through as he came out to review the troops. He was accompanied, as he marched in front of the line, by generals Smith and Swan ; his secretary, Mr. Lear; judge Chase, and several other gentlemen. About 11 he pro- ceeded on his way to Trenton, escorted out by the Fell's Point troop. " The object of the commander in chief in going to Trenton, is, we under- stand, to attend a grand council of the executive and general military officers of the union. The president, and the three late unsuccessful ambassadors to France, we also learn, are to be present.* " Americans ! what measure of gratitude is not due to a man, loaded with years and glory, who so ardently wished to terminate his days in the peace- ful shades of Mount Vernon, again coming forth, to sustain the thought of council and the fatigue of war, to perpetuate that liberty which he so glori- ously achieved for his country." — Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser, November 10. THUKSDAY, NOVEMBER 8. At Elkton, Maryland: ^''November 8. — Breakfasted at Susquehanna escorted by the Hartford horse — dined at * Shortly after the adjournment of Congress, on the 16th of July, the public offices were removed to Trenton, New Jersey, in consequence of the prevalence of yellow fever in Philadelphia. The President also went to Quincy, Massachusetts, and did not return to the city until November 23, having been detained by the illness of Mrs. Adams. All danger from the fever was, however, over b}^ the end of October, and a proclamation to that effect was issued by the city authorities on the first daj' of November. Wash- ington, therefore, met the Secretary of War and Major-Generals Hamilton and Pinckney at Philadelphia to make the necessary arrangements for the provisional army. 372 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1798 Elkton and lodged at Christiana brdge." — Washijigton's Diary. " November 9. — Breakfasted in Wilmington & dined & lodged at Chester — wait? at the latter the Eeturn of an Exp^, at this place was met by sev^ Troops of Phil" horse." — Washington's Diary. SATUKDAY, NOVEMBER 10. At Philadelphia : " November 10. — With this Escort I ar- rived in the City about 9 oclock & was rec*^ by Gen' M^Pher- sons Blues & was escorted to my lodgings in 8*'" Street (M" White's *) by them & the Horse." — Washington's Diary, ^'■November 12. — Lieutenant General WASHINGTON Commander in Chief of the Armies of the United States, arrived here on Saturday morning last [November 10], escorted by the different troops of horse — and, notwith- standing the short notice which had been given the [Macpherson] Blues, almost the whole of that corps, with an alacrity which does them honor, were drawn up on the commons, f to receive their beloved General. "On his arrival, the cavalry and infantry were drawn up, and the Gen- eral, having passed in review down their front, is said to have expressed the highest satisfaction at their soldierly and elegant appearance. The proces- sion then moved from the commons, the General accompanied by his sec- retary Mr. Lear, in the centre of the cavalry. On his arrival at his lodgings in Eighth-street, he was saluted by the acclamations of the citizens who had collected once more to behold their Chief. The General was dressed in his uniform, and is apparently in good health and spirits." — CLaypoole's Ameri- can Daily Advertiser. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 11. At Philadelphia: " November 11, 12, & 13. — Dined at my Lodgings receiving many Visits." — Washington's Diary. ^^ November 14.|— Dined at Maj' [William] Jackson's [187 South Third Street]. November 15. — Dined at M' Tench Francis's [Market between * " Eosannah White, widow, boarding house, 9 north eighth street" — Philadelphia Directory, 1798. f The vacant ground west of the built-up portion of the city was known as the com,mons. J ^^ November 14. — We are informed, that the governor as commander in chief of the state militia, attended hy the officers of the city and county brigades, will pay their respects to the Commander in chief of the armies of 1798] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 373 Eleventh and Twelfth Streets]. November 16. — Dined at the Secrety of the Treas^ [Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 91 Spruce Street]. November 17. — Dined at M' [Thomas] Willings [100 South Third Street]. November 18.— Dined at my lodgings. Novetnber 19. — Dined at Docf Whites — Bishop [of the Protestant Episcopal Church of Pennsylvania, 89 Walnut Street]. Novem- ber 20. — Dined at the Secretary of Wars [James McHenry, 113 South Third Street]. Noveinber 21. — Dined at Maj'' Reeds — Senator's [Jacob Kead, of South Carolina, corner of Eleventh and Chestnut Streets]. November 22. — Dined at M'' [William] Binghams [South Third, near Spruce Street]. November 23. — Dined at M' Sam' Merediths Treasurer [of the United States, 171 Chestnut Street]. November 24. — Dined at the Secretary of States [Tim- othy Pickering, comer of Sixth and Arch Streets]. November 25. — Dined at my Lodgings. November 26. — Dined at the Presidents of the U : States [190 High Street].* November 27. — Dined in a family with M'' [Robert] Morris.f November 28. — Dined with Judge [Richard] Peters [85 Walnut Street]. November 29. — Dined with the British Minister [Robert Liston. 217 Arch Street]. November 30.— Dined with the Gov"' of the State Gov^ Mifflin [250 High Street]. December 1. — Dined with M"' [William] Rawle [260 High Street] . December 2. — Dined with Bingham. From hence until my leaving the City on the 13 I dined at my lodgings.'' — Washirigton's Diary. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 4. At Philadelphia: '■'■ December Q. — Last Tuesday [Decem- ber 4] the Potawatamy, Chippawa, and Ottawa Chiefs paid their respects to the President of the United States, and to Lieutenant General Washington." — Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8. At Philadelphia : Present at the delivery of the Presi- dent's address to both Houses, Third Session, Fifth Con- gress. the United States at 10 o'clock this forenoon." — Claypoole^s American Daily Advertiser. * No. 190 High or Market Street was the house occupied by Washington when residing in Philadelphia. t Robert Morris was imprisoned for debt February 16, 1798, and was not released until August 26, 1801. This family dinner must therefore have taken place in the debtors' apartment of the Old Walnut Street Prison at Sixth and Walnut Streets. The debtors' apartment was situated on the north side of Prune, now Locust Street, east of Sixth Street. The buildings were taken down in 1836. 374 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1798 " At twelve o'clock, Lieutenant General "Washington, with his Secretary, Colonel Lear, Major Generals [Charles Cotesworth] Pinckney and [Alex- ander] Hamilton, entered the Hall [of the House of Representatives], and took their places on the right of the Speaker's Chair. The British and Portuguese Ministers, and the British and Danish Consuls, with the Secre- taries, had their places assigned them on the left of the Chair. "A few minutes after twelve, the President of the United States, accompanied by his Secretary, and the Heads of the several Departments of the Government, appeared. The President having taken his seat, and the officers of Government theirs, near the general officers, he rose and ad- dressed the two Houses.' — Journal of Congress. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14. Leaves Philadelphia : " December 14. — After dinner set out on my journey home — Reached Chester." — Washing- ton's Diary, ''December 15.— Yesterday morning Lieut. Gen, WASHINGTON left this city, on his journey to Mount Vernon, Virginia. The General was accompanied by his Secretary, Col. Lear." — Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15. At Elkton : '■'■Decemher 15. — Breakfasted at Wilmington bated at Christiana — and dined and lodared at Elkton." — - t>^ Washington's Diary. ''December 16. — Set out after a very early breakfast; — and was detained at Susquehanna from 10 Oclock until the next morning — partly by Ice and Winds — but principally by the Lowness of the tides occasioned by the N" Westerly Winds. December 17. — Breakfasted at Barney's — bated at Hart- ford — Dined at Webster's and Lodged at Baltimore." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18. At Washington City : " December 18. — Breakfasted at Spurriers — dined at Rhodes's — and lodged at M' Laws in the Federal City." — Washington's Diary. " We had an invitation to dine with Doctor Thornton [at Washington City] : and the Doctor having a public dinner on that day, I got introduced to many respectable characters ; and among the rest to Mr. Law, a gentleman married to the granddaughter of Mrs. Washington. Mr. Law is an English- man, and brother to Lord Ellenborough. He gave Colonel Lyles and myself 1798] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 375 an invitation to go to sleep at his house ; Lut we were prevented by General Washington coming to sleep there that night, and Colonel Lear, his Sec- retary. I had, however, the gratification to be introduced to the General ; and Colonel Lyles being a neighbour and a particular acquaintance of his, a most pleasing evening I spent. The General was quite sociable, and re- ceived me very kindly. After supper, at nine o'clock the General went to bed, as that was his hour; for the supper in most houses being tea, and some broiled fish, sausages, steaks, «&c., it is generally introduced between six and seven o'clock, which was done that evening. Doctor Thornton, Colonel Lyles, Mr. Law, and myself, sat some hours after; and the Colonel and I went to sleep at a tavern in the city, which was kept by an Englishman named TunnerclifFe. We were asked the next morning to breakfast at Mr. Law's, with the General ; which we did : and the General gave me a most kind invitation to go to see him in a few days.* After breakfast, he set off in his carriage for Mount Vernon." — Richard Parkinson, Tour in America in 1798, etc. London : 1805. Vol. i. p. 59. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 19. At Mount Yernon : '■'•December 19. — Stopped at Doct' Thornton's and M' Peter's & dined at home." — Washing- ton'' s Diary. MONDAY, DECEMBER 24. At Mount Vernon : " December 24. — Doct' Craik came to D[inner] & Judge Gushing & lady in the Afternoon — as did a M' Dinsmoor Agent in the Cherokee Country on his way to Philadelphia." — Washington's Diary. "We reached Mount Vernon," wrote the wife of Judge Gushing, in Feb- ruary, 1799, "the evening before Christmas, and if any thing could have added to our enjoyment, it was the arrival of General and Mrs. Pinckney the next day, while we were dining.f You may be sure it was a joyful * Mr. Parkinson, referring to the visit to Mount Vernon made in conse- quence of this invitation from Washington, says, " I dined with him ; and he showed me several presents that had been sent him, viz. swords, china, and among the rest the key of the Bastille. I spent a very pleasant day in the house, as the weather was so severe that there were no farming objects to see, the ground being covered with snow. The General wished me to stay all night ; but having some other engagements, I declined his kind offer." t '■'■ December 2b. — Gen' Pinckney Lady & daughter came to dinner." — Washington's Diary. 376 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1798 meeting, and at the very place my wishes had pointed out. To be in the company of so many esteemed friends, to hear our good General "Washing- ton converse upon political subjects without reserve, and to hear General and Mrs. Pinckney relate what they saw and heard in France, was truly a feast to me. Thus the moments glided away for two days, when our reason pointed out the propriety of our departing and improving the good roads, as the snow and frost had made them better than they are in summer." Lossing's Mount Ver7i07i, p. 309. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 26. At Mount Vernon : " I returned a few days ago from Philadelphia, whither I had been for the purpose of making military arrangements with the Secretary of War, respect- ing the force which is about to be raised." — Washington to William Vans Murray. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27. At Mount Vernon : " December 27. — The following Gen- tlemen dined here the 27*'' viz — Mess" W"* Fitzhugh — W" Herbert Potts— Wilson— Doct' Craik & Son Geo: Wash- ington Craik, Heath & Docf Greenhow of Richmond." — Washington's Diary. 1799- WEDNESDAY, JANUAKY 16. At Mount Eagle : " January 20. — On "Wednesday last [January 16] M" Washington & myself took a family dinner at Mount Eagle * — and left all the family in good health & Spirits in the afternoon — Miss Custis was, at that time, with her mother [Mrs. Stuart], at Hope Park, or she would have accompanied us on that visit." — Washington to Bryan Fair- fax. WEDNESDAY, JANUAEY 23. At Mount Vernon : " Your letter of the 10"" instant I re- ceived in Alexandria, on Monday, whither I went to be- come the guardian of I^elly, thereby to authorize a license for your nuptials on the 22** of next month." — Washington to Laiorence Laois. SUNDAY, FEBKUARY 10. At Mount Vernon : " February 10. — "Wind shifted in the Night to N. W. blew fresh & turned cold — Mer at 30 in the morning & 34 at Night — clear all day." — Washington's Diary. Washington's custom of recording the state of the weather will be noticed in nearly all of his diaries. Indeed, one kept at Philadelphia in 1796, with the exception of two entries, one referring to receiving the national colors of France from M. Adet on January 1, and the other to George Washington Craik having joined him as private secretary on April 12, is entirely devoted * Mount Eagle, on the old road from Alexandria to Mount Vernon, was the home of Bryan Fairfax, rector of Christ Church, Alexandria, 1790- 1792, and afterward Lord Fairfax. The house is still standing. At the date of the above-quoted letter Mr. Fairfax was in England on a visit. 377 378 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1799 to that subject. This diary, the handwriting of which is peculiarly neat and distinct, is in the possession of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. It runs from January 1 to June 21. MONDAY, FEBKUARY 11. At Alexandria : " February/ 11. — "Went up to Alexandria to the celebration of my birth day — Many Manoeuvres were performed by the Uniform Corps — and an elegant Ball & supper at Night. February 12. — Return'd home." — Wash- ington's Diary. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16. At Mount Vernon : " February 16. — M' and M" Peters came to dinner. February 18. — M" Stuart and her 3 daugh- ters came here in the afternoon." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19. At Mount Vernon : " You will please to grant a license for the marriage of Eleanor Parke Custis with Lawrence Lewis, and this shall be your authority for so doing." — Washington to Captain George Deneale, Clerk of Fairfax County Court. THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21. At Mount Vernon : " February 21. — M' Ch' Carter wife & daughter came to dinner — & M' Rob' Lewis in the After- noon." — Washington's Diary. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22. At Mount Vernon : " February 22. — The Rev'^ M' Davis & M' Geo : Calvert came to dinner & Miss Custis was mar- ried ab* Candle light to M' Law" Lewis." — Washington's Diary. I "An event occurred on the twenty-second of February, 1799, that, while it created an unusual bustle in the ancient halls, shed a bright gleam of sunshine on the last days at Mount Vernon. It was the marriage of Major Lewis, a favorite nephew, with the adopted daughter of the chief. It was the wish of the young bride that the general of the armies of the United 1799] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 379 States should appear in the splendidly embroidered uniform (the costume assigned him by the board of general officers) in honor of the bridal ; but alas, even the idea of wearing a costume bedizened with gold embroidery, had never entered the mind of the chief, he being content with the old Con- tinental blue and buff, while the magnificent white plumes presented to him by Major-General Pinckney he gave to the bride, preferring the old Conti- nental cocked hat, with the plain black-ribbon cockade, a type of the brave old days of '76." — George Washington Parke Citstis, Recollections of Washington. MONDAY, FEBKUAKY 25. At Mount Vernon : " February 25. — River nearly closed with Ice. — M"" L : Lee M" Lee k Miss French — M"" Herbert, M' Jn" Herbert k Miss Herbert.— Docf Craik & M' G. W. Craik — Miss Fitzhugh Miss Moly Fitzhugh & Miss Chew — & CoP Fitzgerald dined here & returned." — Washington's Diary. ''February 26.— M" Potts— M" Fendall— M' And' Ramsay & Wife— M' W" Eamsay — M' Edm^ Lee & Sister Lucy — and M"^ Hodgden dined here & returned — and M'' Bushrod Washington came in the afternoon. February 27. — M'' Thomson Mason «& Wife and M' Nicholls «& Wife dined here «& re- turned." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, MARCH 3. At Mount Vernon: ''March 3.— M" Stuart & her 3 daughters (Stuarts) * and M' & M" Peters went away after breakfast. March 4. — M"" & M'* Carter went away after Breakfast. March 6. — M' & M" Law went away to day." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, MARCH 3L At Mount Vernon : " M' Lewis & Nelly Custis fulfilled their matrimonial engagement on the 22** of February. In consequence the former, havg. relinquished the lapp of Mars for the Sports of Venus, has declined a Military ap- pointment." — Washington to Charles Cotesworth Pinckney. * By her second marriage Mrs. Stuart had seven children, — five daughters and two sons. 380 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION [1799 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3. At Four Mile Run : * " April 3. — Went up to four mile Run to Run round my land there — Got on the gr"^ about 10 Oclock and in Company with Capt° Sterret and M' Luke commenced the Survey on 4 mile run & ran agreeably to the Notes taken — In the evening went to Alex' & lodged my self at M' Fitzhugh's." — Washington's Diary. " April 4. — Recommenced the Survey at the upper end where we left off in corapanj' with Col° [Charles] Little — Capt° Sterret and M"" Will"" Adams — & cont* it agreeably to the Notes until we came to 4 Mile run again which employed us until dark — Returned to Alex* and again lodged at M'' Fitz- hughs. April 5. — Returned home to Breakfast." — Washington's Diary. FRIDAY, APRIL 12. At Mount Vernon: ^^ April 12. — Spread Plaster of Paris this Morning on the circle & sides before the door — & on the Lawn to the Cross Path betvv" the Garden gates — & on the Clover by the Stable." — Washington's Diary. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24. At Alexandria: ^^ April 24. — Went up to Alex" to an Election of a Representative from the District to Congress & from the County to the State Legisla*." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, APRIL 29. At Four Mile Run : " April 29. — Went up to run round my land on 4 Mile run. Lodged at Col" Littles [at Alex- andria]. April 30. — Engaged on the same business as yes- terday & returned home in the afternoon." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, MAY 14. At Mount Vernon : " May 14. — Maj' W" Harrison came here to dinner. May 15. — M' Thomson Mason came here * Four Mile Run empties into the Potomac about three miles above Alex- andria. See note to May 4, 1786. 1799] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 381 to breakfast and attended Maj' Harrison & me on the Survey of the latters land & both dined here, as did a M' Season." — Washington's Diary. John Searson, whose visit to Mount Vernon is noted in the Diary under the name of Season, was the author of a disjointed composition (the result of this visit) entitled "MOUNT VEKNON, A POEM: Being the seat of his excellency George Washington, in the STATE OF VIRGINIA ; Lieutenant-general and commander in chief of the land forces of the United States of America. This rural, romantic and descriptive Poem of the seat of so great a character, it is hoped may please, with a copper-plate likeness of the General. It was taken from an actual view on the spot by the author, 15th May, 1799. BY JOHN SEAKSON, formerly of Philadel- phia, merchant." This remarkable attempt at verse was published at Phil- adelphia in September of the same year. THURSDAY, MAY 16. At Alexandria : " May 16. — Went up to Alexandria to the Purse Race, & returned in the Evening M' Law & Docf Thornton here." — Washington's Diary. THURSDAY, MAY 23. At Mount Vernon : " May 23.— M' Tho' Adams third son to the President & M' Joshua Johnson, Lady & son came to din'." — Washington's Diary. FRIDAY, MAY 31. At Washington City : " May 31.— Went up to the Fed^ City — dined & lodged with M' Peter. June 1. — Dined & lodged at M' Laws. June 2. — Returned home to dinner — tak^ Church at Alex* in my way." — Washington's Diary. Edward C. McGuire, on page 154 of his work entitled "The Religious Opinions and Character of "Washington," * quotes the following narrative "from a valued female friend, now numbered with the dead," which evi- dently refers to Washington's attendance at Christ Church, Alexandria, on Sunday, June 2, recorded in the Diary. " In the summer of 1799," said Mrs. M., "I was in Alexandria, on a visit to the family of Mr. H. , with whom I was connected by the ties of relationship. Whilst there, I expressed a wish to t * Published at New York in 1836. 382 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1799 see General Washington, as I had never enjoyed that pleasure. My friend Mrs. H. observed, ' You will certainly see him on Sunday, as he is never absent from church when he can get there ; and as he often dines with us, we will ask him on that day, when you will have a better opportunity of seeing him.' Accordingly, we all repaired to church on Sunday, and seated in Mr. H's large double pew, I kept my eyes upon the door, looking for the venerable form of him I had so long desired to see. Many persons entered the doors, but none came up to my impressions of General Washington's appearance. At length, a person of noble and majestic figure entered, and the conviction was instantaneous that I beheld the Father of his Country. It was so !— my friend at that moment intimated the fact to me. He walked to his pew, at the upper part of the church, and demeaned himself through- out the services of the day with that gravity and propriety becoming the place and his own high character. After the services were concluded we waited for him at the door, for his pew being near the pulpit he was among the last that came out— when Mrs. H. invited him to dine with us. He declined, however, the invitation, observing, as he looked at the sky, that he thought there were appearances of a thunder-storm in the afternoon, and he believed he would return home to dinner." THUESDAY, JUNE 20. At Mount Vernon : " June 20. — The following company- dined here — Chief-Justice of the U. S. Ellsworth, M' & M" Steer Sen'— M' & M" Steer Jun' M' Van Havre— M' & M" Ludwell Lee — M" Corbin Washington M' & M" Hodgson & Miss Cor Lee M' & M" Geo. Calvert and a Capt° Ham- ilton & Lady from the Bahama Islands." — Washingtoiv' s Diary. TUESDAY, JUNE 25. At Mount Vernon : " Your favor of the 18th of Septem- ber last, with the small box containing four pairs of prints, came safe to hand, but long after the date of the letter." — Washington to John Trumbull. r In April, 1790, Washington subscribed to four sets of engravings after Trumbull's pictures, "The Battle of Bunker Hill" and "The Death of General Montgomery." They were published in London, the former exe- cuted by J. G. Miiller, of Stutgard, Germany, and the latter by J. F. Clemens, of Copenhagen, Denmark. These are the four pairs of prints referred to in the above letter. 1799] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 383 THURSDAY, JULY 4. At Alexandria : " July 4. — "Went up to Alex* and dined with a number of the Citizens there, in celebration of the anniversary of the declaration of american Independ' at Kemps Tavern." — Washington's Diary. '■^Alexandria, July 6. — The 23d anniversary of the American Indepen- dence was celebrated in this town with the greatest harmony and decorum. The military commands agreeably to orders previously given, mustered in the court house square, and the line was formed in Fairfax street. After going through the manual, which was performed with the strictest exacti- tude, Col. John Fitzgerald, accompanied by John Potts, Esq., passed the line in review, and expressed his satisfaction at their military and elegant appearance. The battalion then marched, by sections, up King street, and formed the line there to receive their beloved Chief General George "Washikqton. On his passing the line the usual military honors were paid ; and it is with pleasure I remark, that the Cincinnatus of America appeared in excellent health and good spirits. " Lieutenant General Washington dined at Col. Kemp's tavern, with a select party of friends." — Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser, July 11. TUESDAY, JULY 9. At Mount Vernon : On this day Washington executed his Last Will and Testament, consisting of twenty-nine pages of manuscript, written entirely by himself; and at the bottom of each, with the exception of page twenty- three, he affixed his signature. To this he added a schedule with descriptive notes of the property included in the will, which was directed to be sold, making thirteen additional pages. WEDNESDAY, JULY 17. At Mount Vernon : '■'' July 17. — Colonels Powell & Simms and M' Herbert — and Judge Washington * Capt° Black- burn & M' H. Turner dined here — the three first went away in the afternoon. July 18. — Slow rain with the wind at S° E' & conf* until I went to bed a 9 oclock. . . . Capt° * Bushrod Washington was commissioned an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, December 20, 1798. 384 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1799 Blackburn went away after breakfast. July 19. — Judge Washington & M' H. Turner left this after dinner." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, AUGUST 5. At George Town : '■'■August 5. — "Went up to George Town, to a general meeting of the Potomac Company — dined at the Union Tavern & lodged at Mr. Laws. August 6. — Re- turned home to dinner — found Gen^ W" Washington* of S" Carolina and Son here." — Washington's Diary. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7. At Mount Vernon : " August 7. — The following Gentle- men dined here — viz. Col" Fitzgerald — Docf Craik & son — M' W" Craik— M' Herbert & Son J"° C. Herbert— Col" Ramsay— M' Potts— M^ Edm*^ Lee— M' Keith— Lieut Kean of the Marines — and M' Ch' Fenton Mercer. August 8. — Gener^ Washington & son went away after breakfast." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, AUGUST 24. At Mount Vernon: ^^ August 24. — M' White came to dinner — as did 4 Gentlemen from Phil* viz — Young M' Meredith (son of the Treasurer) M' Clifton, a M' Walter & the 4 last returned after dinner." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 1. At Mount Vernon : " September 1. — Docf Craik dined here — sent for to M" Washington who was sick. Septem- ber 6. — Docf Craik who was sent for in the night to M" * Colonel "William Washington, a distinguished cavalry officer in the Revolution, was appointed a brigadier-general Julj"^ 19, 1798. He was born in Stafford County, Virginia, February 28, 1752, and was a descendant of Lawrence Washington the Immigrant. General William Washington died at Charleston, South Carolina, March 6, 1810. 1799] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 385 "Washington came early this morning." — Washington's Diary. SATUKDAY, SEPTEMBEK 7. At Mount Vernon : " September 7. — M' & M" Peter and Gen' Washington came in the afternoon. September 8. — 'Gen' Washington went away after breakfast — & M' & M" Law came to dinner." — Washington's Diary. THUKSDAY, SEPTEMBEK 12. At Mount Vernon : " September 12. — Cap : Truxton [Thomas Truxtun] came to dinner." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22. At Mount Vernon : " The death of near relations always produces awful and affecting emotions, under whatsoever circumstances it may happen. That of my brother [Charles] has been so long expected, and his latter days so uncom- fortable to himself, must have prepared all around him for the stroke, though painful in the effect. *' I was the first, and am, now, the last of my father's children by the second marriage, who remain. When I shall be called upon to follow them is known only to the Giver of Life. When the summons comes I shall endeavor to obey it with a good grace." — Washington to Colonel Bur- gess Ball. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27. At Mount Vernon : " September 27. — Governor Davie on his way to the Northward to Embark as Envoy to France called, dined & proceeded on." — Washington's Diary. "William Richardson Davie, Governor of North Carolina in 1798, was ap- pointed, in conjunction with Oliver Ellsworth and William Vans Murray, Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary to France. The envoys reaching Paris in March, 1800, found Napoleon Bonaparte at the head of the new republic, and soon concluded a satisfactory adjustment of all disputes ; the result of which was the convention signed September 30, 1800, which 25 386 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1799 included a recognition from France of the rights of neutral vessels, and an indemnity for depredations on American commerce. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1. At Mount Vernon : " October 1. — M" Fairfax sister and daughter — and M" Herbert & M" Nelson — M"" Jn° Herbert & two of M" [Warner] Washington of Fairfields Sons dined here." — Washington'' s Diary. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22. At Mount Vernon : " October 22. — M' Liston (British Minister) & lady came to dinner. October 25. M'' and M" Liston left this after breakfast." — Washington'' s Diary. MONDAY, OCTOBER 28. At Mount Vernon : ^'October 28. — M' Ridout an English Gentleman and his Lady dined here as did M" G. W. Craik — M'' Lear set out for Harper's Ferry to make some ar- rangement with Col" Parker respecting Cantoning the Troops." — Washington'' s Diary. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5. At Difficult Run, Virginia: " November 5. — Set out on a trip to Difficult Run to view some Land I had there & some belonging to M'' Jn" Gill who had offered it to me in dis- charge of Rent which he was owing me — Dined at M' Nicholas Fitzhughs and lodged at M"^ Corbin Washingtons. November 6. — Set out from thence after 8 Ocl'' being de- tained by sprinkling Rain, & much appearance of it until that hour — reached Wiley's Tavern near Difficult Bridg-e to Breakfast and then proceeded to Survey my own Land." — Washington!' s Diary. In the notes to the schedule of property directed to he sold by his execu- tors, the land on Difficult Run, Loudoun County (three hundred acres), is described as ft)llows : " It lyes on the great Road from the City of Wash- ington, Alexandria and George Town to Leesburgh & Winchester, at Diffi- 1799] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 387 cult bridge — nineteen miles from Alexandria — less from the City & George Town, and not more than three from Matildaville at the Great Falls of Potomac." THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7. At Difficult Run : " November 7. — Finished Surveying my own Tract & the Land belonging to Gill — returning, as the Night before to Wiley's Tavern. November 8. — Morn- ing very heavy and about 9 oclock it commenced Raining which it continued to do steadily through the day — not- withstanding which I proceeded to ascertain by actual measurement the qualities [? quantities] — this being fin- ished betw" 12 & 1 oclock I returned to Wiley's Tavern & stayed there the remainder of the day." — Washington's Diary. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9. At Washington City : " November 9. — Morning & whole day clear warm & pleasant set out a little after 8 oclock — viewed my building in the Fed' City — Dined at M' Laws — & lodged at M' Tho' Peter's. November 10. — Returned home about noon." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12. At Mount Vernon : " M" Washington and myself have been honoured by your polite invitation to the Assemblies at Alexandria this winter, and thank you for this mark of attention. But, alas ! our dancing days are no more. We wish, however, all those who have relish for so agreeable and innocent an amusement all the pleasures the season will afford." — Washington to the Gentlemen of the Alexandria Assemblies. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15. At Mount Eagle : " November 15. — Rode to visit M"" now Lord Fairfax who was just got home from a Trip to Eng- land — ret^ to dinner." — Washington's Diary. 388 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1799 SUNDAY, NOVEMBEE 17. At Alexandria : " November 17. — Went to Church in Alex- andria & dined with M'' Fitzhugh." — Washington's Diary. FKIDAY, NOVEMBER 22. At Mount Vernon : " November 22. — Col° Carrington * & Lady came in the aftern". — November 23. — Col" Carrington & Lady went away after Breakfast." — Washington's Diary. '^ Mount Vernon, November 22. — We arrived at this venerable mansion in perfect safety, where we are experiencing every mark of hospitality and kindness that the good old General's continued friendship to Colonel Car- rington could lead us to expect. His reception of my husband was that of a brother. He took us each by the hand, and, with a warmth of expression not to be described, pressed mine, and told me that 1 had conferred a favor never to be forgotten in bringing his old friend to see him ; then, bidding a servant to call the ladies, entertained us most facetiously till they ap- peared." — Mrs. Edioard Carrington to Mrs. George Fisher. \ WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27. At Mount Vernon : " November 27. — Docf Craik who was sent for to M" Lewis (& who was delivered of a daughter ab' — oclock in the forenoon) came to Breakfast & stayed dinner." — Washington's Diary. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28. At Mount Vernon : " November 28. — Col° & M" Carring- ton came to Dinner. November 30. — Col° & M" Carrington went away after B*." — Washington's Diary. ^^ Mount Vernon. — After visiting my numerous friends, we returned to this revered mansion. . . . Everything within doors is neat and elegant, but nothing remarkable, except the paintings of different artists which have been sent as specimens of their talents. I think there are five portraits of * Colonel Edward Carrington, a Virginian by birth (February 11, 1749), was Quartermaster-General under General Greene in the Revolution. He commanded the artillery and did good service at the battle of Hobkirk's Hill, April 24, 1781, and also at Yorktown. He was a member of Con- gress 1785-86, and was foreman of the jury in Burr's trial for treason in 1807. Colonel Carrington died at Richmond, Virginia, October 28, 1810. f Anne Ambler, a sister of Mrs. Carrington. 1799] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 389 the General, some done in Europe and some done in America, that do honor to the painters. There are other specimens of the fine arts from various parts of the world, that are admirably executed and furnish pleasant con- versation. Besides these, there is a complete greenhouse, which at this season is a vast, a great source of pleasure. Plants from every part of the world seem to flourish in this neatl}^ finished apartment, and from the arrangement of the whole I conclude that it is managed by a skillful hand, but whose I cannot tell : neither the General nor Mrs. "Washington seem more interested in it than their visitors. We have met with no company here, but am told that scarcely a week passes without some, and often more than is agreeable or convenient. Transient persons, who call from curi- osity, are treated with civility, but never interfere with the order of the house, or with the Genei-al's disposition of time, which is as regular as when at the head of the army or in the President's chair. Even friends who make a point of visiting him are left much to themselves ; indeed, scarcely see him from breakfast to dinner, unless he engages them in a ride, which is very agreeable to him. But from dinner to tea our time is most charm- ingly spent; indeed, one evening the General was so fascinating, and drew my husband out into so many old stories relating to several campaigns where they had been much together, and had so many inquiries to make respecting their mutual friends, particularly Kosciusko and Pulaski, who have always corresponded with Colonel Carrington, whose characters afford great interest, that it was long past twelve when we separated. At break- fast I feel quite at home, everything is so plain." — Mrs. Carrington to Mrs. Fisher. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1. At Mount Vernon : " December 1. — Morning clear & but little W^ — that Southerly — Mer 26 — Lowering towards evening — Mer 36. — M' Foot dined here." — Washington's Diary. MONDAY, DECEMBER 2. At Mount Vernon : " December 2. — Rained in the Night — Morning heavy — "Wind Southerly — and Mer at 36. — after- noon calm & less clouded — Mer 38 — Lord Fairfax, Lady, Daughter & Miss Dennison dined here." — Washington's Diary. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3. At Mount Vernon : " December 3. — Morning extremely foggy — Mer at 38 and wind what there was of it Southerly 390 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1799 — Ab* 2 oclock the fog dispelled and it became extremely pleasant — M" Stuart & daughters went away after break- fast." * — Washington's Diary. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4. At Mount Vernon : " December 4. — Morning clear — "Wind at N° W and Mer at 36 — From 10 oclock until 2 very like for Snow — it then cleared & became mild & pleasant Mer 38 at IS" :" — Washington's Diary. THUKSDAT, DECEMBEK 5. At Mount Vernon : " December 5. — Morning raining, and it continued to do so moderately through the day with the Wind at S° E*— Mer 38 in the Morning & 36 at Night."— Washington's Diary. PKIDAY, DECEMBER 6. At Mount Vernon : " December 6. — Morning heavy, with appearances of clearing now & then, but about 2 o'clock it set in to raining — Mer 34 in the Morning & 37 at Night." — Washington's Diary. SATUEDAY, DECEMBER 7. At Mount Eagle : " December 7. — Rainy Morning, with the wind at N° E' & Mer at 37 — afternoon clear & pleasant wind westerly — Mer 41 at Night— dined at Lord Fairfax's." — Washington's Diary. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8. At Mount Vernon : " December 8. — Morning perfectly clear, calm and pleasant; but about 9 o'clock the wind came from the N° W and blew fresh. Mer 38 in the Morn- ing — and 40 at Night." — Washington's Diary. * " November 21. — M''^ Stuart and the two eldest Miss Stuarts came here to dinner." — Washington's Diary. 1799] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 391 MONDAY, DECEMBEK 9. At Mount Vernon : " December 9. — Morning clear & pleasant, with a light wind from N" W* Mer at 33 — pleasant all day — afternoon Calm Mer 39 at Night — M' Howell Lewis & wife set off on their return home after breakfast — and M"" Law® Lewis and Washington Custis on a journ^ to N : Kent." — Washmgtoii's Diary. James K. Paulding, in his " Life of Washington"* (vol. ii. p. 195), gives a statement made to him personally by one of the favorite nephews of Wash- ington, describing his last parting with the General. This nephew was doubtless Howell Lewis, who, by the above-quoted entry in the Diary, left Mount Vernon on December 9, after a ten days' visit. The statement is as follows : " During this, my last visit to the general, we walked together about the grounds, and talked of various improvements he had in contemplation. The lawn was to be extended down to the river in the direction of the old vault, which was to be removed on account of the inroads made by the roots of the trees, with which it is crowned, which caused it to leak. ' I intend to place it there,' said he, pointing to the spot where the new vault stands. ' First of all, I shall make this change; for after all, I may require it before the rest. ' " When I parted from him. he stood on the steps of the front door, where he took leave of myself and another, and wished us a pleasant journey, as I was going to Westmoreland on business. It was a bright frosty morning, he had taken his usual ride, and the clear healthy flush on his cheek, and his sprightly manner, brought the remark from both of us that we had never seen the general look so well. I have sometimes thought him de- cidedly the handsomest man I ever saw ; and when in lively mood, so full of pleasantry, so agreeable to all with whom he associated, that I could hardly realize that he was the same Washington whose dignity awed all who approached him. " A few days afterwards, being on my way home in company with others, while we were conversing about Washington, I saw a servant rapidly riding towards us. On his near approach, I recognised him as belonging to Mount Vernon. He rode up — his countenance told the story — he handed me a letter. Washington was dead ! " TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10. At Mount Vernon : " December 10. — Morning clear & calm — Mer at 31 afternoon lowering — Mer at 42 and wind * Published at New York in 1835. 392 WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. [1799 brisk from the Southward — A very large hoar frost this Morn^." — Washington's Diary. On this day (December 10) Washington completed a plan or system, which had been under consideration for some time, for the management and cultivation of the Mount Vernon farms for several successive years. In this paper, which occupies thirty closely written folio pages, the most minute and detailed instructions are given as to the cultivation of the land, with tables designating the rotations of the crops. This was accompanied by a letter of the same date to James Anderson, his manager, with a request that the instructions be " most strictly and pointedly attended to and executed, as far as the measures required will admit." As an example of his remarkable powers of application and life-long attention to detail, and also as showing the soundness and vigor of his intellect at this period of his life, the document possesses considerable in- terest. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11. At Mount Vernon : " December 11. — But little wind and Raining — Mer 44 in the Morning and 38 at Night. — About 9 oclock the Wind shifted to W W* & it ceased raining but cont*^ Cloudy. — Lord Fairfax, his Son Tho^ and daughter — M" Warner Washington & son Whiting — and M"' Jn° Her- bert dined here & returned after dinner." — Washington's Diary. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12. At Mount Vernon : " December 12. — Morning Cloudy — Wind at W E' & Mer 33— a large circle round the Moon last Night. — about 1 o'clock it began to snow — soon after to Hail and then turned to a settled cold Rain — Mer 28 at Night." — Washington's Diary. " On Thursday, December 12, the General rode out to his fsirms about ten o'clock, and did not return home till past three. Soon after he went out, the weather became very bad, rain, hail, snow falling alternately, with a cold wind. When he came in, I carried some letters to him to frank, in- tending to send them to the post-office in the evening. He franked the letters, but said the weather was too bad to send a servant to the office that evening. I observed to him. that I was afraid he had got wet. He said, No, his great-coat had kept him dry. But his neck appeared to be wet, and 1799] WASHINGTON AFTER THE REVOLUTION. 393 the snow was hanging upon his hair. He came to dinner (which had been waiting for him) without changing his dress. In the evening he appeared as well as usual." — Tobias Lear. (Sparks, vol i. p. 555.) FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13. At Mount Yernon : " December 18. — Morning Snowing & ab* 3 Inches deep *— Wind at N° E* & Mer at 30— cont^ Snowing till 1 oclock — and ab' 4 it became perfectly clear — wind in the same place but not hard — Mer 28 at Night." — Washington's Diary. This, the final entry of the Diary of 1799, was the last piece of writing executed by Washington. On the follow- ing morning, Saturday, December 14, between two and three o'clock, he was taken seriously ill from a cold in- curred on the morning of the 12th, while taking his usual ride, and died that night of quinsy, between ten and eleven o'clock. At three o'clock in the afternoon of Wednesday, Decem- ber 18, 1799, all that was mortal of George Washington, soldier, statesman, and patriot, the foremost man in Ameri- can history, was deposited with Masonic ceremonies in the family vault at Mount Vernon. He had passed from the sight of man ; but his fame, so long as virtue, truth, and sincerity shall be guiding principles, will increase with the gathering years ! * " A heavy fall of snow took place on Friday, which prevented the General from riding out as usual. He had taken cold, undoubtedly from being so much exposed the day before, and complained of a sore throat. He, however, went out in the afternoon into the ground between the house and the river to mark some trees, which were to be cut down in the improve- ment of that spot." — Tobias Lear. INDEX. Abbot's Tavern, 159 Abert's Tavern, Alexandria, 347 Abingdon, the Stuarts reside at, 359 Adams, Abigail, children of, 203 Adams, Charles, attends presidential levee, 203 Adams, Henry, owns Washington's por- trait by Savage, 178 Adams, John, declared Vice-President, 120, 249 ; dines with Washington, 144, 174, 179,340,343; visits Fort Wash- ington, 187 ; children of, 203 ; pre- sents address to Washington, 231 ; ex- tract of letters from, to his wife, 271, 303, 304, 318, 319, 321, 322, 324, 334, 345, 346; takes oath of oflSce, 344; Washington to, accepting the appoint- ment of Commander-in-Chief of the army, 363, 364 ; birthday of, celebrated, 366 ; visits Quincy, Mass, 371 Adams, Mrs. John, 149, 161, 162; Wash- ington calls on, 172; to her daughter, with account of presidential levee, 203 ; extract of letter from, 206; illness of, 371 Adams, John Quincy, 203 ; extract from diary of, 279, 280 ; appointed minister to the Netherlands, 279 Adams, Samuel (Gov.), 153 Adams, Thomas, 381 Adams, Thomas Boylston, 203 Adams, William, 380 Adams' Mill, 28 Adet, Pierre Auguste, presented to Wash- ington, 303 ; gives national colors of France to United States, 317, 377 Aimes, see Ames Alexander, Philip, 48 Alexander, Robert, 111 Alexandria, Washington visits, on behalf of a charity school, 47 ; races held at, 63; ratification of the Constitution celebrated in, 105; Washington Lodge of, in possession of Washington's por- trait by Williams, 240; inhabitants of, celebrate Fourth of July, 259, 361, 383; Masonic Lodge of, gives dinner to Washington, 347 ; celebration of Wash- ington's birthday at, 356; and John Adams's birthday, 366 ; Mrs. Washing- ton presents " colors" to, 366 ; public dinner at, in honor of Chief-Justice Marshall, 368; Washington refuses the invitation to join the assemblies of, 387 Alison, Archibald, quoted, 333 Allan, , 214 Allans, Col., 214 Alleghany County, Pa., opposition to excise laws in, 243 Allen, 231 Allen, Misses, present at presidential levee, 203 Alston, Capt. William, 215 Alton, John, death of, 46 Ambler, Anne, 388 American Philosophical Society, AVash- ington a member of, in 1780, 'im ; eulogium on Dr. Franklin before the, 207 ; attends oration delivered over Diivid Kittenhouse, 335 Ames, Fisher, 131, 167, 181, 186; is member of House of Representatives in 1790, 166; speech of, in favor of Jay Treaty, 323 Anderson, James, 336, 392 ; Washington to, 331, 365 Anderson's Tavern, 30 Andrew, , 213 Andrews, Robert, 142 Andriani, Count, visits America, 208 Annapolis, Md., General Assembly of State gives a ball at, to Washington, 20 Anstey, Mr. , commissioner from England, visits Mount Vernon, 67 Armistead, Miss , 362 Armstrong, Rey. James F., accompanies Washington to Princeton, 126 Army, Washington appointed Command- er-in-Chief of the, 363 Arnold, Benedict, near Detroit, 185; oc- cupies the house afterwards owned by Robert Morris, 199 Articles of Confederation, Washington on, 57 Asbury, Francis, visits Mount Vernon, 31 Ash, John B., 178 Ashby, Capt. John, 17 Ashe, Col. John B., invites Washington to dine with citizens of Halifax, 214 395 396 INDEX. Bache, , issues pamphlet in opposi- tion to Jay Treaty, 304 Bache, Mrs. Richard, 87 Bailey, Francis, 170 Baird, John, 229 Baker, Dr. , mentioned, 46 Baldo, , 368 Baldwin, Abraham, 167, 176 Ball, 68 Ball, Col. Burgess, Washington to, on fever at Philadelphia, 267 j and on death of his brother, 385 Ball, Joseph, 340 Ball, Moses, 28 Balis, Widow , 92 5a/hia, 204, 238 Spaight, Col. Richard D., 32 Spanish minister, 1791, Don Joseph De Viar, the, to United States, 227 Spencer, , 218 Spieren, George H., 142 Spinner, , 219 Spotswood, Gen. Alexander, 29, 212, 351, 356 Spotswood, Gen. William, 55, 104 Springettebury Manor, Washington at, 78, 81, 83, 84, 85, 87, 88, 89 Spurrier's Tavern, 92, 122, 199, 305, 307, 309, 311, 370, 371, 374 Stabler, H. S., 147 Stagg, Maj. John, escorts Indians to Philadelphia, 239 ; mentioned, 284 Stakes, Capt. , 131 Stanton, Joseph, 184 Staphorst, Nicholas Van, 249 Stavely, John, 361 Steel furnace of Nancarrow & Matlack, 86 Steer, Mr., and family dine with Wash- ington, 356 ; mentioned, 382 Stenton, residence of Dr. Logan, 83 Stephens, Col. William, 177 Sterling, Lady, 138 Sterret, Capt. , 380 Steuben, Baron de, 134, 138, 141, 145, 162, 16.3, 164, 165, 178 Stevens, Senator , opposes the Jay Treaty, 304 Stevens^ Rev. Charles Ellis, 297 Stewart, David, 229 Stewart, John, 340 Stoddart, Maj. , 223 Stodder, Capt. , 196, 197 Stone, John H., Washington to, 313, 336 Stone, Michael, 170, 178, 184 Stone, Thomas, appointed commissioner to settle the jurisdiction of the Chesa- peake Bay, 27 Stover, Ralph, 340 Stroads, Capt. , 11 Strong, Caleb, member of the Senate in 1790, 166, 167, 174, 181, 186; notifies Washington of his re-election, 250 Stryker, William S., quoted, 126 Stuart, 282 Stuart, Mrs. , 377, 378, 379, 390 Stuart, Miss , 40 412 INDEX. Stuart, Charles, acts as escort to Washing- ton in Annapolis, 210 Stuart, Dr. David, 23, 28, 34, 39, 54, 56, 71, 101, 106, 110, 210. 336; Washing- ton to, on government affairs, 82 ; to, on his firm belief in the Constitution, 96; to, requesting his annuity, 114; to, 254, 338 ; chosen delegate to the Convention of Virginia, 100; and Presidential Elector, 116; and Com- missioner for the Capitol at Washing- ton, 264 ; residence of, 359 Stuart, Mrs. David, illness of, 109 Stuart, Gilbert, Washington to, 324 Stuart, Richardson, 33, 34, 63 Sturges, Jonathan, 172, 181, 186 Sullivan, John, President of State of New Hampshire, receives Washington, 157 Sullivan, William, extract from work of, 201 Sumpter, Thomas, 175, 181, 186 Suter, John , 197 Suter's Tavern, 210, 307 Sutton, , 220 Swan Gen. , 371 Swanwick, John, 87 Sa-osh, 215 Swearingin, Capt. , 15 Tammany Society of Philadelphia waits on Washington, 8 ; of Richmond, Va., entertains Washington, 30 Tannehil), Adamson, 229 Taneytown, 226 Taylor, , 36-38, 219 Taylor's Tavern, 30 Telfair, Gov. Edward, receives Washing- ton at Augusta, 219 Temple, Sir John, 173 Temple, Lady, 138 Ternant, Col. Jean Baptiste, French minister, 227, 228, 258 Tevot, M. , 358 Thanksgiving Day, ordinance for observ- ing, 162, 295 Thatcher, George, 167, 176 Thatcher, Peter, minister of Congrega- tional Church, Boston, 1789, 155 Theatre, Washington attends, 292, 293 Thompson. , 104, 138, 180 Thompson, Rev. , preaches in Pohick Church, 39 Thompson, Israel, 11 Thomson, Charles, Washington to, regard- ing his commission, 5, 6 ; secretary to Congress, bears official document to Washington of his election as Presi- dent of the United States, 121 ; accom- panies Washington on his journey to New York, 122-127 ; resigns his office of secretary of Congress, 141 Thornton, Edward, describes Washing- ton, 235, 238; on ceremony of admin- istering oath of office to Washington, 253 ; appointed secretary of British legation, 327 Thornton, Capt. Presley, 369 Thornton, Dr. William, 368, 374, 375, 381 ; designs plans for first capitol buildings at Washington, D. C, 362 Titcomb, Gen. Jonathan, 156, 157 Todd, , 212 Tracy, , 363 Trammell, Sampson, 11 Trammels, Capt. , 36 Traversy, Marquis de, presented to Wash- ington, 150 Treadway, , 222 Treaty of Amity, Commerce, and Naviga- tion, see Jay Treatj' Tredwell, Mrs. , extract of letter to, 262 Trenton, N. J., reception of Washington at, in 1789, 125, 126; public offices removed to, 371 Trick ett, , 11 Trinity Church, New York, consecration of, 177; attended by Washington, 179- 181, 184 Troup, , 171 Trumbull, John, 168, 175; Washington at studio of, 1 69 ; Washington sits for picture to, 171-174, 177, 185-188; paints Washington's portrait for the city of New York, 188 ; and for Charles- ton, S. C, 236 ; secretary to John Jay, 277 ; Washington to, 382 Trumbull, Jonathan, 168, 175; presents address to Washington, 230 ; attends Dancing Assembly in Philadelphia,233; presents address to Washington, 247 Truxton, Capt. Thomas, 385 Tucker, Thomas Tudor, 128, 165, 176 Tulcher, , 219 Tumbelson, , 12 Tunnercliffe, , 375 Turner, Col. , receives Washington at Harrisburg, 285 Turner, Alexander, 340 Turner, H., 383, 384 Twining. Thomas, extract from diary of, 326, 327 Tyson, Henry, 228 Underdunck, Henry, see Onderdonk Union Tavern, 355, 384 University, National, Washington's desire to see established a, 295, 296 Van Berckel, Peter John, Dutch ambas- sador, holds an audience with Washing- ton, 136; dines with Gov. Clinton, 164; mentioned, 137, 161, 302 INDEX. 413 Van Cortlandt, Pierre, 178 Vander Kemp, Francis Adrian, visits Mount Vernon, 107 Vanhaven, Mrs. , 356 Van Havre, , 382 Van Horn, , 309 Van Horn, Isaac, 340 Van Home, ,131, 305, 307, 309 Van Polanen, R. G., appointed Minister Resident of the Batavian republic, 382 Van Ranselaer, Mrs. Stephen, 163 Van Rensalaer, Jeremiah, 178 Van Zandt, Miss , dances the minuet with Washington, 134 Vans Murray, William, Washington to, 376; appointed Envoy Extraordinary to France, 385 Vareen, ,215 Varick, Col. Richard, 129, 165, 187; arranges Washington's papers, 3 ; dines with Gov. Clinton, 164 Varlo, Charles, describes life at Mount Vernon, 17 Varnum, Gen. James M., 74 Vaughan, Benjamin, Washington to, re- garding chimney-piece, 25; mentioned, 161 Vaughan, John, 77 Verplanck, Gulian, 178 Viar, Don Joseph de, appointed ambas- sador from Spain, 148, 227 Vining, John, 175, 181, 186 Volney, C, visits Mount Vernon, 351 Waddell, Henry, 142 Wade, Capt. , escorts Washington at Elizabeth-Town, 1789, 128 Wadsworth, Col. Jeremiah, 69, 152, 168, 175 Walker, John, Senator, presents address from Virginia to Washington, 181 "Wallace Box" presented to Washing- ton, 232 Wain, Robert, 340 Walter, , 384 Walton, Judge George, welcomes Wash- ington to Augusta, 219 Wansey, Henry, his opinion of Washing- ton, 277 Warne, , 179 Warner, Capt. , 153 Warren, , 360 Warville, Count J. P. Brissot de, visits Mount Vernon, 112; his opinion of AVashington and his home, 112, 113 Warwick, 209 Washington County, Pa., denounces tho excise laws, 243 Washington, B. C, act for the establish- ment of, issued, 187 ; Washington par- ticipates in laying corner-stone of Cap- itol at, 264 Washington, 289, 357 Washington, Augustine, 11, 68 Washington, Betty, 356 Washington, Bushrod, 3, 12, 16, 69, 349, 367, 368, 379, 383, 384; Washington to, 142 Washington, Charles, 11, 23, 103, 254; illness of, 117 ; death of, 385 Washington, Corbin, 69, 382, 386 Washington, Fanny, 92 ; marries Tobias Lear, 309 Washington, Ferdinamio, 48 Washington, George Augustine, 23, 24, 33, 39, 44, 45, 46, 47, 55, 63, 73, 95, 96, 105, 117, 309; marriage of, 40; visits Alexandria, 53; indisposition of, 241, 242 ; death of, 254 Washington, Mrs. George Augustine, Mrs. Washington to, 283 Washington, George Corbin, 3 Washington, George Steptoe, marriage of, 321 Washington, Harriott, visits Abingdon and Alexandria, 101 ; mentioned, 243 Washington, .John, 11, 357 Washingtim, John Augustine, 41, 63, 69 ; death of, 68; last private owner of Mount Vernon, 198 ; daughter of, men- tioned, 212 Washington, Lawrence, 34, 43, 384 ; sells the bust of M. Neoker, 198 ; of Cho- tanck, 357 ; of Belmont, 357 Washington, Lund, 28, 33, 34, 40, 43, 47, 65, 60, 95, 96, HI, 353; manages Mount Vernon estate, 24 Washington, Martha, 32, 38, 44, 52, 66, 69 92, 93, 100-109, 113, 144, 145, 147- 160, 160, 161, 163, 164, 165-186, 194, 196, 197, 202, 203, 232, 240, 243, 244, 263, 277, 278, 279, 299, 300, 302, 303, 305, 312, 316, 329, 333, 349, 351, 353, 357, 359, 365, 389 ; holds her first levee May 29, 1789, 133; arrives in New York, 137; receives Friday evenings, 142; attends Dancing Assembly in New York, 162; holds New Year's re- ception, 166; attends Assembly, 176; visits Fort Washington, 187; is re- luctant to leave New York, 194; enter- tained in Philadelphia, 195; suffers from indisposition, 196; journeys to Baltimore, 196 ; arrives at Mount Ver- non, 197; at Philadelphia, 199; at- tends Wilson's lectures, 202; holds levee, 203 ; attends Dancing Assembly of Philadelphia, 233, 272 ; attends the funeral of Mrs. Tobias Lear, 261 ; ex- tract of letter from, to Mrs. G. A. Washington, 283; attends church regu- larly, 297; leaves Philadelphia for Mount Vernon, 305 ; attends Miss Will- ing's marriage, 312; described, 326; 414 INDEX. holds reception on her husband's birth- day, 320 ; attends theatre, 321 ; attends reception, 341 ; holds her last drawing- room, 343 ; proceeds to Mount Vernon, 346 ; visits Alexandria, 355 ; presents colors to the town of Alexandria, 366 ; dines at Mount Eagle, 377 ; illness of, 384, 385; receives invitation to join the Alexandria Assemblies, 387 Washington, Mary, Washington visits, 29, 55, 104; illness of, 72; death of, lis ; notice of death of, 145 Washington, Robert, 34, 43 AVashington, Samuel, 48, 52, 289, 321 AVashington, Thomas, 34 Washington, Thornton, 52 Washington, Col. Warner, 11, 16, 103 Washington, Mrs. Warner, sons of, 386 ; mentioned, 392 Washington, Whiting, 392 AVashington, Col. AVilliam, 215, 217 ; at- tends races at Alexandria, 41 ; sketch of life of, 384, 385 Washington, Gen. George, at Abingdon, Va., 28, 34, 52, 55, 56, 63, 92, 94, 101, 109 at Alexandria, Va., 9, 25, 27, 28, 30-33, 38, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47, 54, 59, 61, 62, 63, 66, 68, 69, 71, 92, 94. 95. 100, 101, 105, 107, 108, 109, 111,113, 116,117, 122, 199, 211, 259, 309, 331. 347, 355, 356, 358, 360, 361, 365, 366, 368, 370, 378, 380, 381, 383, 388 at Annapolis, Md., 9, 20, 21, 22, 209 at AshfonI, Conn., 159 at Augusta, Ga., 219 at Baltimore, 73, 92. 122, 123, 196, 278, 302, 305, 306, 307, 309, 311, 346, 370, 371, 374 at Bath, Va., 11, 288 at Bedford, Pa., 289, 290 at Beverly, Mass., 156 at Billerica, Mass., 159 at Bladensburg,92, 197,210, 302,305, 307, 309, 370 at Boston, 153, 154, 155 at Brandywine, 307 at Bristol, P.a., 194 at Brookfield, Mass., 152 at Brookhaven Township, 180 at Brooklyn, 180 at Brunswick, 194 at Brushy Plains, 180 at Cambridge, Mass., 153, 155 at Camden, S. C, 220 at Carlisle, Pa., 285, 286 at Chambersburg, Pa., 287 at Charles Co., Md., 64 at Charleston, S. C, 216 at Charlestown, Mass., 155 at Charlestown, Va., 307, 309 AVashington, Gen. George, at Charlotte, N. C, 220 at Chester, Pa., 74, 209, 305, 307, 309, 372, 374 at Chester (East), 150 at Christiana, 305, 307, 309, 374 at Christiana Bridge, 372 at Columbia, Pa., 291 at Columbia, S. C, 219 at Coventry, Conn., 160 at Cumberland, Md., 288 at Difficult Run, Va., 386, 387 at Durham, 151 at Elizabeth Town, N. J., 128, 194 at Elizabeth Town Point, 137 at Elkton, Md., 305, 307, 309, 311. 371, 372, 374 at Exeter, 159 at Fairfield, Conn., 151, 160 at Fayette County, Pa., 13, 14, 16 at Flushing, 180 at Fort Pleasant, Va., 16 at Four Mile Run, Va., 66, 380 at Frankfort, Va., 289 at Fredericksburg, Va., 6, 29, 30, 65, 72, 104, 105, 118, 212, 223 at Fredericktown Md., 34, 224 at Georgetown, Md., 34, 92, 94, 122, 197, 210, 223, 230, 302, 305, 306, 307, 309, 310, 311, 328, 365, 370, 384 at Georgetown, S. C, 215 at Germantown, Pa., 266, 267, 280, 281, 282 at Glen Cove, 180 at Gravesend, ISO at Gray's Ferry, Pa., 74 at Gray's Ferry Bridge, Pa., 124 at Great Falls, 51, 52, 63 at Greencastle, Pa., 287 at Guilford, N. C, 221 at Gunston Hall, 46 at Halifax, N. C, 214 at Harper's Ferry, 35 at Harrisburg, Pa., 284, 285 at Hartford, Conn., 152, 160 at Hartford, Md., 305, 307, 309, 311, 370, 374 at Haverhill, Mass., 159 at Holliston, Mass., 159 at Hope Park, 359 at Humelstown, Pa., 284 at Huntington, 180 at Ipswich, Mass., 156 at Jamaica, 179, ISO at Kingsbridge, 150, 160 at Kingstown, 159 at Kittery, Me., 158 at Koram, 180 at Lancaster, Pa., 226, 291, 333 at Lebanon, Pa., 284 at Leesburg, Va., 11, 103 INDEX. 415 Washington, Gen. George, at Leicester, Mass., 153 at Long Island, 179 at Manchester, Va., 213 at Mansfield, Conn., 160 at Marblehead, Mass., 156 at Marlborough, Mass., 153 at Mamaroneck, 150 at Menden, 159 at Middlesex, Mass., 153 at Middletown, Conn., 151 at Milford, Conn., 151 at Mount Eagle,Va.,359, 377,387,390 at Mount Vernon, Va., 3-10, 17, 19-21, 23-49, 50-67, 68-97, 98-115,116-121, 197, 198, 199, 211, 223, 230, 237, 241-243, 253, 254, 259, 263, 265, 266, 278, 279, 302, 306, 309, 310, 329, 330, 333, 347-354, 355-369, 375-393 at Myerstown, Pa, 284 at Needham, Mass., 159 at New