1From George Washington to John Fitzgerald, 19 August 1796 (Washington Papers)
I intended to have written to you on the subject of the enclosed letter, from the Federal City, but by dining in a large company at Mr Laws (the day I parted with you) and examining the public buildings afterwards, I was prevented: and letters from the Secretary of State which I met on the Road, and which required my attention yesterday afternoon I was again prevented from doing it in time for...