George Washington Papers

From George Washington to David Stuart, 5 May 1787

To David Stuart

Mount Vernon May 5th 1787.

Dear Sir,

I have received your favor of the 30th and thank you for the ennumerations contained in it.1 They are all clear and selfevidt and in some instances may be enlarged. Did you communicate the Plan to Colonels Fitzgerald and Hooe? And how far did you give either, or both, reason to believe they would be recommended to Mr Jefferson? (to whom I shall write as soon as I get to Philada). I wish to be fully informed of this that I may govern myself accordingly.2

On Monday after an early dinner, or on Tuesday Morning, I shall (my rheumatic complaint having got better) commence my Journey (I believe by the way of Annapolis) to Philadelphia. It would therefore suit me very well to receive the Sum mentioned when you were here last, at that place; and probably, as you are going to Richmond, it may be so ordered. Alexanders Bills on Mr Morris would answer well—doubtfull Bills, or Bills which would be accompanied with delay, would by no means suit me, because the money would be applied 1st towards paying a debt there—and 2d in the purchase of some Goods for the family, if I can get them cheap there.3 If I can render you, or Mrs Stuart any services while there I shall be happy in the execution of your commands—With compliments & good wishes for the family I am—Dear Sir Yr Obedt & Affecte Ser.

Go: Washington

ALS, MFranD. Stuart wrote on the cover of GW’s letter: “This letter relates to some observations I had drawn up at the Genls request respecting the fitness of the Potomac as a place of deposit for the fur trade.”

1Letter not found. See source note.

2GW wrote to Thomas Jefferson from Philadelphia recommending that either John Fitzgerald or Robert Townsend Hooe be made the U.S. agent for the Couteulx Company in Alexandria. The French company was proposing to develop a large-scale fur trade in America (GW to Jefferson, 30 May). See also Lafayette to GW, 8 Oct. 1786, n.1., and Jefferson to GW, 14 Nov. 1786.

3See Alexander Donald to GW, 22 May, and 20 June, and note 2 of each (ref 1, ref 2).

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