To George Washington from James McHenry, 5 November 1786
From James McHenry
Baltimore 5 Novr 1786
My dear General.
I have just received from L’orient by the Iris, a present from the Marquiss de la Fayette for your Excellency, of a Jack ass two mules some pheasants and partridges, which I shall after some days rest forward to your Excellency. The reason for giving you so early information is to request you send two careful servants to assist in conducting them to your seat. I imagine I must send the birds by water. If I do not hear from you in a reasonable time I shall take the necessary steps to ensure their safe conduct.1
This present comes under circumstances which does honor to the Marquiss. The King of Spain makes a present like a poor man—the Marquiss like a prince. With sencere affection I am Dr General yours
James McHenry
ALS, PHi: Gratz Collection.
1. Lafayette refers to the jackass and two Jennys and the birds in his letter to GW of 26 October. For further references to the transporting of Lafayette’s gifts from Baltimore to Mount Vernon, see GW to McHenry, 11, 29 Nov., McHenry to GW, 13, 18 Nov., and GW to Lafayette, 19 November.