Search

"Sends his Eulogy on the life of [Washington]--he and his wife send condolences to Martha Washington. [See answer dated May 15, 1800, T. Lear to Cunningham]"

"Presents model of a monument he and officers of his brigade are going to erect in memory of ""our much lamented Commander in Chief.""--distress over Washington's death. [See drawing of monument listed under same date; also answer dated Jan. 10, 1800, Lear to Smith]"

Personal letter expressing concern for the health of both families. Several references to the recent spell of bad weather.

Sorry that mama is ill--glad she recovered--expect she will take another trip to the northward--the "pore General is not likely to come to see us"--if she stays home hopes to see him soon--sends Patty a kiss and pair of shoes--not a doll in the city of Philadelphia--has had no letter since Washington came from camp--duty to Mama, love to sister Aylett [Elizabeth Dandridge Aylett, later to marry Henley] sister and family.

Martha Washington's draft response to the proposal dated December 31, 1799 after George's death. Her main interest, that she be buried next to her husband, was accepted and plans proceeded for a mausoleum at the Capitol.

Lear writes for widow Martha Washington referring to a previous request for some black kid gloves and now adds to it a request "a pair of blk silk and a pair of blk kid shoes made by Mr. Fenton ..." Asks Biddle to write to one of George Washington's executors, Lawrence Lewis, to settle his account with George Washington's estate.

Acknowledges in Martha Washington's behalf receipt of his letter and the oration [he gave on Independence Day]--thanks him for expressions of sympathy.

Sends 37lb of butter -- would have gone to see them, had they not expected a visit any time from them -- cask of apples here for them -- Mr. W___ would have sent [apples] and molasses, but could find no barrel for the molasses.

Writing for the General and herself, Martha regrets their inability to have tea with the Powels tomorrow -- George Washington is to be dining out, and Mrs. Washington has invited guests for the day

Fanny [Henley] arrived safely at Mt. Vernon--must act as her own housekeeper--cook Hercules left, so at a loss for a cook--sorry ague and fever have attacked her already--sickly at [Mt. Vernon]--Nelly [Custis] has been indisposed--Washington Custis at school at Princeton College and is much grown--granddaughters in city [Martha Peter & Eliza Law] both have little girls--she and General in tolerable health--wishes to see [Elizabeth]--"Fanny is I hope very happy here she and Nelly is to go to the city to see Mrs. Law and Mrs. Peter.".