October 1st
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“I wish from my Soul that the Legislature of this State could see the policy of a gradual abolition of Slavery; It might prevt much future mischief.”
To Lawrence Lewis
Mount Vernon, 4 August 1797
Dear Sir,
Your letter of the 24th ulto has been received, and I am sorry to hear of the loss of your servant; but it is my opinion these elopements will be MUCH MORE, before they are LESS frequent: and that the persons making them should never be retained, if they are recovered, as they are sure to contaminate and discontent others. I wish from my soul that the Legislature of this State could see the policy of a gradual Abolition of Slavery; It would prevt. much future mischief.
Adobe Firefly
Whenever it is convenient to you to make this place your home I shall be glad to see you at it for that purpose and that there may be no misunderstanding in the matter, I shall inform you beforehand, that you, servant (if you bring one) and horses, will fare in all respects as we and mine do, but that I shall expect no Services from you for which pecuniary compensation will be made. I have already as many on wages as are sufficient to carry on my business, and more indeed than I can find means to pay, conveniently. As both your aunt and I are in the decline of life, and regular in our habits, especially in our hours of rising and going to bed, I require some person (fit and Proper) to ease me of the trouble of entertaining company; particularly of nights, as it is my inclination to retire (and unless prevented by very particular company, always do retire) either to bed, or to my study, soon after candle-light. In taking these duties (which hospitality obliges one to bestow on company) off my hands, it would render me a very acceptable service, and for a little time only, to come, an hour in the day, now and then, devoted to the recording of some Papers which time would not allow me to complete before I left Philadelphia, would also be acceptable. Besides there is nothing at present, that would require any portion of your time, or attention; both of which, if you have inclination for it, might be devoted to Reading, as I have a great many instructive Books, on many subjects, as well as amusing ones,* &c. &c &c
Your Aunt unites with me in best regards for you, and I am your sincere friend and Affectionate Uncle.
G:o Washington
* Founders Online includes the following: “or, they might be employed in sporting, there being much game of all sorts here; or in riding, & viewing the management of my farms, from whence something useful may [be] drawn, as I think Mr Anderson in many things could give you useful lessons and a better insight into husbandry than your opportunities have, Hitherto, presented to you. I do not mean however, that any of these things should restrain you from attending to your own affairs, or restrain you from visiting your friends at pleasure; all I have in view by making this communication is to guard against misconception on either side.” — FO34
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