Sir, 

My fixed determination is, that no person whatever shall hunt upon my grounds or waters. To grant leave to one, and refuse another, would not only be drawing a line of discrimination which would be offensive, but would subject one to great inconvenience; for my strict, and positive orders to all my people are, if they hear a gun fired upon my Land to go immediately in pursuit of it. Permission therefore to any one would keep them either always in pursuit, or make them inattentive to my orders under the supposition of its belonging to a licensed person by which means I should be obtruded upon by others who to my cost I find had other objects in view. Besides, as I have not lost my relish for this sport when I can find time to indulge myself in it, and Gentlemen who come to the House are pleased with it, it is my wish not to have the game within my jurisdiction disturbed. For these reasons I beg you will not take my refusal amiss, because I would give the same to my brother if he lived off my land. I am Sir Yr Very Hble Servant 

G:^o Washington