From George Washington to Richard Henry Lee, 9 July 1785
To Richard Henry Lee
Mount Vernon July 9th 1785.
Dear Sir,
Mr Dohrman who does me the honor of presenting this letter to your Excellency, is represented to me as a Gentleman of great merit; and one who has rendered most benevolent & important Services to the injured Sons of America, at a period when our Affairs did not wear the most favorable aspect.
He has some matters to lay before Congress which he can explain better than I. the justice due to which, & his sufferings, need no advocate; but I take the liberty nevertheless of introducing him to your countenance & civilities.1 With great respect, esteem & regard I am, Dr Sir Yr Excellys Most Obt & Affecte Hble Servt
Go: Washington
ALS, DNA:PCC, item 78. Written on the cover: “favd by Mr Dohrman.” The letter is docketed: “Letter—Genl Washington—in favr of Mr A: H: Dorhman.”
1. See Patrick Henry to GW, 4 April 1785, and note 1 of that document. GW also wrote on this date a letter of introduction to Samuel Chase, the text of which reads: “I take the liberty of introducing Mr. Dohrman to your friendly notice and civilities. He is represented to me as a gentleman of great merit, and one who, at an early period of the war, (when our affairs were rather overshadowed,) advanced his money very liberally to support our suffering countrymen in activity [captivity].
“He has some matter to submit to Congress, which he can explain better than I. I am persuaded he will offer nothing which is inconsistent with the strictest rules of propriety, and, of course, that it will merit your patronage” ( 512).