George Washington Papers

From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 6 May 1784

To Clement Biddle

Phila. May 6th 1784

Dear Sir

You will do me a favr by executing the enclosed Memms.1 The reason why I had rather the wine (had of the Chevr de la Luzerne) should be paid for by a third person, shall be given to you when I see you.2

To send the articles wanted by the first Vessel bound to Alexandria, would be very convenient, & you wd do me a kindness to agree for, & express what the frieght shall be. I have suffered great impositions by the charges of some skippers, rather than enter into a contraversy, or dispute their Accts—I send you enclosed 250 dollars to pay the Chevr—& for the things now desired 3—If Burgundy & Champaign is to be had now, as Cheap as I am told it sold at a while ago—or any other good wine of that sort very cheap, I should be glad to get, & send some round, but your previous information may be best.

If I could see a small slipe of the plain blew & green paper—with a sample of the paupier-Maché & gilded borders, I should be glad of it. In a hurry I am Yr obt & affe Servt

Go: Washington

My Letter to the Chevr is left open for your perusal—please to seal it before delivery—which I wish may be soon.

ALS, PHi: Washington-Biddle Correspondence.

1The memoranda have not been identified, but see note 3.

3The 250 dollars in bank notes that GW sent to Biddle came to (at 7/6 )£93.15 (Ledger B description begins General Ledger B, 1772–1793. Library of Congress, George Washington Papers, Series 5, Financial Papers. description ends , 198).

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