From George Washington to Samuel Vaughan, 18 November 1786
To Samuel Vaughan
Mount Vernon 18th Novr 1786.
My Dr Sir,
The obligations you are continually laying me under, are so great that I am quite overwhelmed & perfectly ashamed of myself for receiving them, notwithstanding your politeness leaves me without a choice. The picture of a battle in Germany, & the Jarrs came very safe. The first is fine: the latter is also fine and exceedingly handsome—they shall occupy the place you have named for them.1
May I hope Sir, that you have heard of the safe arrival of your Lady & family in England. Every occasion which informs me of your health and happiness, is pleasing to me; but none would equal that of testifying under my own roof the sentiments of perfect esteem & regard, with which I have the honor &c.
G: Washington
LB, DLC:GW.
1. Samuel Vaughan, who at this time was living in Philadelphia, sent the vases to be placed in the New Room on the marble mantelpiece that he had given GW in 1784. The picture was to be hung above it. The dark blue porcelain vases, made in Worcester and decorated with African animals and pastoral scenes, remain in place at Mount Vernon ( 97–102).