The inheritance of an estate in England necessitated George William Fairfax’s presence there for an indefinite period. GW was to take over the management of his affairs during his absence, with the help of Francis Willis, Jr., and Craven Peyton. On this day GW was given Fairfax’s power of attorney (see power of attorney to Craven Peyton, 14 Jan. 1774, NjMoHP). On 5 Aug., Fairfax wrote GW that their ship was still at Yorktown, where it had been delayed by sickness among the crew. He added, “Knowing that a House & Furniture, suffers much, by being uninhabited, I have directed Mr. Willis if any offers should be made to Rent the whole, to take your Advise, or the House with what Land may be wanted seperate. If neither should offer, would it not be the best way to addvertise the Furniture?” (CSmH). GW retained his power of attorney and continued to supervise the Fairfax properties until the Revolution, when he wrote Fairfax that he could no longer continue to do so (26 July 1775, DLC:GW).