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Bushrod Washington writes to Hannah Washington, apologizing to his mother for not writing and thanking her for her letters. He writes about the summer heat and in an attempt to escape to country breezes befriends a family outside of the city. He inquires whether his mother has received a letter from Mrs. Powel [Elizabeth Willing Powel] and expresses his continued and growing affection for her and Mr. Powel. He mentions that Mrs. Powel can be quite frank with him especially his choice in 'cloaths' and replaced his newly acquired watch string with a more elaborate style. He will send his portrait [by Henry Benbridge] to her when it is safe to do so by water conveyance. He is quite proud of the painting and claims, "it is said by all who see it, to be amongst the finest pieces of painting in Philadelphia." It cost him £18.10. Autograph letter signed 4 pages.

A.L.S. 8 pages. Indebted to her for her faithful correspondence ... hopes to shorten stay in Phila., by devoting all his time to law. ... reflects on his first 21 yrs ... is sending his portrait, painted by Henry Benbridge. Expresses his opinion of the picture. Concern about his sister Milly's cusses education of women in general and especially his sister's. Desires her to learn music and French if any tutors can still be found in Va. If not, will tutor her himself when he returns. Believes a woman should learn more than just domestic duties. Will write sister (Jane) an account of Mrs. (?) a very good friend who is the victim of persecuting misfortune, "the most Unhappy woman in the world".

A.L.S. 4 pages. Alexandria. Discusses religion ... suggests his mother rise early and ride before breakfast ... glad she is rid of Sorrel ... welcome to molasses sugar ... will not be diffident in requesting favors of her ... glad to hear wheat, barley, and clover are so fine ... agricultural advice ... Name on original manuscript appears as "B. Washington."

A.L.S. 3 pages. Richmond to Hannah Washington, Bushfield. Distressed over health of his niece--hopes she will be spared to them [probably Mary Lee Washington, b. 1795 - d. 1827, daughter of his brother Corbin]--"She is the picture of two beloved angels"--business with Col. [Wm. A.] Washington--pay Mr. Rice for horse bought of him--Nancy [wife, Anne Blackburn Washington] will be delighted to send her all of her books. Autograph letter signed, integral cover, postmarked "[ ] April 1797", watermark. Name on original manuscript appears as "B. Washington." Date on original catalog card appears [17]97 April 4.

A.L.S. 1 page. Richmond. Reid must have been a client. Bushrod instructs him in the correct procedure for serving a decree on the defendants in an unidentified suit. Autograph letter signed, integral cover, (Richmond Postal Mark).

A.L.S. 1 page. Mount Vernon. As Bushrod is leaving home for an extended period he asks to leave charge of nephews John and Bushrod [Corbin ?] Washington, who are in school, to Reid -- asks Reid to furnish them with any clothing or other articles they need -- no extravagances -- and 2 or 3 dollars a month pocket money. Autograph letter signed, integral cover, laminated. Note while the letter appears to be addressed to 'James New,' the editors at the Washington Papers discovered that Bushrod Washington's poor handwriting actually is written to James Reid.

Bushrod Washington, Alexandria, writes to his nephew, John Augustine Washington II, Mount Vernon, regarding books and supply of sugar in the store room. Bushrod asked his nephew to bring to Alexandria some papers from the "press which stands on the walnut chest of drawers in my outward study..." Papers relate to the administration of George Washington's estate. Autograph letter, signed. 1 sheet, partially torn.

Bushrod Washington, Mount Vernon, writes to his nephew, John Augustine Washington, Charlestown Jefferson County Virginia, regarding the price of brandy. Autograph letter, signed. 1 sheet, partial wax seal.

A.L.S. 1 page. Deposited $50 to his credit in the bank of Alexandria.

A.L.S. 1 page. Mount Vernon. Bushrod writes that he is convinced the fire at Mt. Vernon was set by an incendiary, but he knows not whom to suspect -- he can impute no motive to any of his "domestics," all of whom exerted themselves to extinguish the fire -- still, great damage was done -- Mrs. Washington's health was impaired by the alarm, though she is recovering. Autograph letter signed, integral cover, docketed, postmarked "Alexa May 22," watermark. Name on original manuscript appears as "Bush. Washington". [It is thought the fire may have endangered the mansion].