Otho Holland Williams Papers, 1744-1839(Part 5/8)
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Otho Holland Williams Papers, 1744-1839(Part 5/8)
Contact Information:
Manuscripts Department
Maryland Historical Society Library
201 West Monument Street
Baltimore MD 21201-4674
410.685.3750
Descriptive Summary
Calendar of the General Otho Holland Williams Papers at the Maryland Historical Society, 1744-1839
MS.908 (Part 5/8)
Maryland Historical Society
Baltimore MD 21201-467
The Maryland Historical Records Survey Project
November 1940
*Note: This Collection has eight parts*
(Part 5/8)
1792 Nov. 9
Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To Col. Edward CARRINGTON.
[761]
Received Carrington's letter of November 5, just as he is leaving for the Barbadoes [W.I.] for his health; agrees almost perfectly with Carrington's recollections about the Revolutionary campaigns in the South; must be a mistake in the abstract for July 26, 1781, for not all [Gen. Nathanael] Greene's troops were fit for duty; does not think they had any militia there at that time, and since he [Williams] was adjutant general of the Southern army then, he must have known of it; General Greene got no reinforcements till after Camden [S.C.]; Shame on the world that such a man [as Greene] should be traduced.
Df.S. 3 pp. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: To Edwd Carrington Esqr. 10 Novemr. 1792 Relative to Greene's force in South.
1792 Nov. 10
[Otho Holland WILLIAMS] Baltimore. To Alexander HAMILTON [Treasury Department].
[762]
Has decided to dispose now of the stock he owns; someone will surely move in Congress to change the law which would penalize him for selling his own property; thanks Hamilton for getting the permission of the President to leave the country; leaves for the Barbadoes [W.I.] tomorrow.
Df. 2 pp. 25 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: To Coll. Hamilton Secy 10th Novemr. 1792.
1792 Nov. 11
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To Dr. [Philip] THOMAS.
[763]
Encloses a bond of Jacob Young's with a balance due of [UNK]12.11.1; wants Thomas to tell Young he must pay the money very soon; Mr. [Ashton] Alexander arrived unexpectedly from Frederick last night; all imported spirits are entered at the Custom House, and the duties on them secured; after that, they go through a routine of forms in the revenue department, for which that department's officers are paid; the collector of the customs receives all the duties and the consequent 1 p[er] cent; is leaving [his horse] Liberty with Mr. [William] Smith who will probably send him to Ceresville [Frederick County], and Thomas may use him or anything else there that he can use; will write to [David] Bryan [the overseer at Ceresville] and get Thomas to read it to him; Bryan will take instructions from Thomas, though he cannot bear advice from any one else; has advertised [for sale] 4½ gallons of rum and 368 acres, and Thomas may do as he likes about it; the packet in which he was to sail sank yesterday at her wharf; now he [Williams] will go in the revenue cutter to French town [Cecil County], thence by stage to New Castle [Del.], and somewhere in the Delaware [River] he will board the Martha, a fine ship bound at once to Barbadoes [W.I.]; feels so well that he inclines not to go at all, but he probably will go within an hour.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Enclosure missing.
1792 Nov. 13
Sharp DELANY. To [Otho Holland WILLIAMS].
[764]
From what Mr. Massey says, Williams will be in time for the sailing of the Martha, which is set for next Thursday or Friday [November 19 or 20]; baggage and stores may be left at New Castle [Del.] to be picked up on the way down the river; bids him call on him [Delany] as soon as he arrives [in Philadelphia?].
A.L.S. 1 p. 23.5 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: S. Delany Esqe. 13 Novr. 1792.
[1792] Nov. 15
Mary [Smith, Mrs. [UNK]] WILLIAMS, Balt[imore]. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[765]
Mr. [John] Lynch is sailing tomorrow for Barbadoes [W.I.], and expects to enjoy surprising him [Williams] there; I really envy him and cant help wishing it was possible for me to be so happy; everyone has been very attentive, but I feel that they cannot compensate for the loss of your company my dear Genl Williams; is moving tomorrow to her father's [William Smith] house; her father sent her his [Williams'] letter from French town [Cecil County]; the man who is planting hedges at Ceresville [Frederick County] called the other day for his money, but neither Mr. [Daniel] Delozier nor she would give him any.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
END VOL 7,
1792 Nov. 17
W[illiam] SMITH, Baltimore. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Barbadoes [W.I.].
[766]
The sudden decision of Major [John] Lynch to visit Barbadoes gives Smith a chance to acknowledge the receipt of Williams' letter from French town [Cecil County]; Polly [Williams' wife and Smith's daughter] and the children will probably be settled down with him by this evening; is convinced that Major Lynch is going to Barbadoes solely to serve Williams.
A.L.S. 1 p. 32 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Mr. William Smith 17 Novemr. 1792.
1792 Nov. 18
D[aniel] DELOZIER, Baltimore. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS.
[767]
Major [John] Lynch has just told him that Williams desired his [Lynch's] company during his trip, so he [Lynch] has engaged passage on the brigantine Prince William Henry, sailing today; he [Delozier] is going to appoint Capt. [Thomas B.] Hugou [or Hugon?] to act as measurer during Lynch's absence; Mr. Patterson has asked that the enclosed letters be forwarded, and he [Delozier] will send all the newspapers since Williams left.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: D. Delozier 18 Novr. 92.
Enclosures missing.
1792 Dec. 4
D[aniel] DELOZIER, Balt[imor]e. To S[harp] DULANY [Delany].
[768]
Sends herewith thirty dollars to reimburse him for some advances he made to Gen. [Otho Holland] Williams while he was in Philadelphia.
A.Df.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: 4 Decr. 92 To Sharp Dulany.
1792 Dec. 18
Mary [Smith, Mrs. O.H.] WILLIAMS. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[769]
Is sending this letter by Mr. Bishop, and had had some thought of asking Mr. Bishop to take charge of her, too; thinks she would not mind the sea, and would endure any inconvenience for the pleasure of seeing him [Williams] so soon; thank God one of the months of separation is past, but can hardly bear the thought of the four or five more that are ahead; if he does not improve, he is to let her know at the first opportunity, and she will come to him; I am astonished at my ever parting with you; the children have all been sick; Robert [the oldest] was well enough to go back to school in a day or two, but William [the second] has not been back to school since Williams left; Edward [the third] has at last got rid of his chills and fevers; Henry [the youngest] was weaned a week or so ago; their friends in Frederick and in Washington [County] are all well; [David] Bryan says everything goes well at Ceresville [Frederick County].
A.L.S. 3 pp. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
1792 Dec. 19
[John] BECKLES, Bay Plantation [Barbados]. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[770]
Is sorry to hear that Williams is ill and tired from the voyage; Mr. Beckles will do himself the honor of calling on General Williams tomorrow.
A.L.S. 1 p. 23 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Mr. Beckles 19 Decr. 1792.
1792 Dec. 20
Mr. [?] JONES. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[771]
Requests the honor of General Williams' company to dinner on Sunday next, when Col. [Thomas] Blackburn's family is also expected.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
On same sheet as entry 772.
[After Dec. 20 1792]
[Otho Holland WILLIAMS].
[772]
Letters Introductory andc.
From
To
Mr. Wm. Potts
John Beckles Esqr
Barbadoes
Philip Lythcott Esqr
do
Mr. S. Wilson
George Crofts Esqr
do
Arthur Rainey Esq
do
Mr. [John] Hollins
William Barton Esqr
do
Mr. J. Buchanan
Sam[ue]l Le Gay Esqr
do
Mr. Wm. Robb
James Fraser Esqr
St. Christophers
Buchanan and Robb
Ulysses Le Burk Esqr
do
Mr. Van Wyck
Edmund Akers Esqr
do
William Somarsale Esqr
do
Mr. Wm. Patterson
Anthony Somersale Esqr
St. Christophers
Buchanan and Robb
John Pritchard Esqr
Dominica
Mr. J[ohn] Hollins
Neilson and Heathcote Esqr
do
Mr. Oliver
John Dunlop Esqr
St. Croix
Robert Tuite Esqr
St. Croix
Robert Thompson Esqr
St. Croix
Robert Campbell Esqr
St. Croix
James Buchanan
Robert Cumming Esqr
do
Buchanan and Robb
John Dunlop Capt
do
Adam Sobotker Esqr
do
Michael McEvoy Esqr
do
Unknown
David Beekman Esqr
do
Black seal S C [?]
William Bourke Esqr
do
Buchanan and Robb
John Proctor Esqr
Grenada
Alexander Fraser Esqr
do
David Clunie [?] Esqr
do
Mr. Wm. Van Wyck
Mr. William Stevenson
St. Eustatius
Mr. Wm. Patterson
William Stevenson Esqr
St. Eustatius
Messrs Avindell and Tait
St. Martins
Buchanan and Robb
William Salmond Esqr
Antigua
James Buchanan
Philip Hicks Esqr
do
Mr. Wm. Van Wyck
J[ohn] Hollins
Langford Lovell Esqr
do
[Cypher]
Messrs Governeur and
Rutgus
Curacoa
Telemon Cruger
Curacoa
James Buchanan
Michael McNamara Esqr
Tortola
Honble Wm. Turnbull
Esqr
Tortola
President of the Island
Somervill and Duguid
John Falconer Esqr
Nassau New
Providence
John Cunningham Esqr
Jamaica
Messrs Wm and Geo:
Cleland
do
Buch[anan] and Robb
Malcolm and Barton
Jamaica
Taylor Balentine and Fairlie
do
Fisher
do
Donald Malcolm Esqr Lucea
do
Memorandum in hand of O.H.W. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: List of Introductory letters andc.
On same sheet as entry 771.
1792 Dec. 21
D[aniel] DELOZIER, Balt[imor]e. To William HENERY, Barbados.
[773]
Gen. [Otho Holland] Williams sent him [Delozier] the enclosed bill of exchange and asked him to send it to Henery,
Copy in hand of and signed by Delozier. 1 p. 20.5 cm. × 17 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: 21 December 1792 To William Henry Esqr of Barbados p[er] Sloop Race Horse.
1792 Dec. 21-22
[Mary, Mrs. O.H., WILLIAMS]. To [Otho Holland WILLIAMS].
[774]
Mr. Bishop [by whom she sent her letter of Dec. 18] has been detained, so she takes the opportunity to add a line; the children are all well; she has had Otho [Williams, son of Elie] to send the latest papers; Mr. Bishop will tell you he saw your sons last night, and that they all looked very well and very handsome.
A.L. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed by Williams; Mrs. Williams 18 and 22 Decr. 92.
1792 Dec. 22
D[aniel] DELOZIER, Baltimore. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[775]
Wrote by the brig Prince William Henry, which left Baltimore about the time Williams left the Delaware [Bay]; Major [John] Lynch left in her, but went only as far as Annapolis; received Williams' letter of [November] 25th containing a bill of exchange which he will send by the sloop Race Horse to Mr. William Henery of Barbados [W.I.]; sent the certificate of deferred stock to Mr. [Christopher] Richmond and received Richmond's receipt for it; also sent 30 dollars to Mr. [Sharp] Dulany [Delany]; stock is low and cash is therefore scarce and high; the prevailing opinion is that stock will rise, in the course of the next month; Mrs. Williams is in perfect health; Otho [Williams, son of Elie] is attentive to his duties in the office and to his French; Mr. [Robert] Purviance offers his respectful compliments.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
1792 Dec. 22
W[illiam] SMITH, Baltimore. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Barbadoes [W.I.].
[776]
Encloses the latest Baltimore paper, with the latest news from France; Samuel Sterett, who arrived yesterday with the London news down to October 19, confirms the Duke of Brunswick's retreat, in the most deplorable situation, distressed by sickness, famine, andca and closely pursued by the french Army; hears that Sterett says the King of Great Britain
is insane again; Washington was unanimously reelected president, and the vice-presidency is between [John] Adams and [George] Clinton, 75 votes for Adams, 58 for Clinton; has had the ague and fever very violently for the past ten days; Williams' waggoner, Bob, was in town yesterday with flour, which is selling at a good price; everything well at Ceresville [Frederick County].
A.L.S. 2 pp. 32 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Mr. Wm. Smith 22 Dec. 92.
Enclosure missing.
1792 Dec. 23
W[illiam] SMITH, Baltimore. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS.
[777]
Wrote yesterday by Mr. [?] Bishop, a young gentleman on his way to Barbados [W.I.] who will be married on his return to their neighbor, Miss Becky Haslet; there is some faint hope of peace with the western Indians; a number of chiefs from the Wabash [River] and the Illinois are on their way from Pittsburg [Pa.] to Philadelphia, to see the President [Washington]; news from Philadelphia is that parties run very high betwixt the two great officers of government, which seems to be observable in every vote of consequence in Congress; R[ichard] Potts has been elected to the United States Senate, in place of Charles Carroll of Carrollton, who had resigned.
A.L.S. 1 p. 31.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Mr. Smith 23d. Decr. 92.
1793 Jan. 1
[Daniel DELOZIER, deputy collector] Baltimore. To Nath[anie]l RAMSEY.
[778]
Gen. Williams has asked him to ask Ramsey to pay the interest now due on Jeremiah Baker's bonds, in which you are security.
Df. 1 p. 25 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: 1 Jany 1793 To Coll. Ramsey.
1793 Jan. 8
D[aniel] DELOZIER, deputy collector, Balt[imor]e. To Richd. HENDERSON.
[779]
Before Williams left for the West Indies, he delivered to me your bond for [UNK]225 due the 22d of September last and informed me that he expected payment on or before the first of this month.
Df.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: 8 Jany 93 To R. Henderson Esqr.
1793 Feb. 14
[Otho Holland WILLIAMS] Barbado's, [W.I]. To Dr. Philip THOMAS.
[780]
When he wrote, January 22, he thought he was recovering very fast but he soon learned the truth of what Thomas and Dr. [George] Brown had both told him, that the better his spirits, the greater the danger of a hemorrhage; about ten days ago he had all his old symptoms and called in a
local doctor named Hendy; Hendy, after hesitating, had an apothecary bleed him, and added a few drops of a fever medicine to the nitre he was already taking; pulse is usually 80 to the minute; Hendy told him he must not take so much sugar-cane juice as he had been; is eating practically no meat; Miss [Polly] Blackburn is declining, and her parents may try another sea voyage for her; he [Williams] is thinking of going to St. Eustatius [West Indies], to get under American colors.
A.L. 4 pp. 32.5 cm. × 20 cm. End of letter missing.
[1793 Mar.]
T. BLACKBURN, Bermuda [W.I.]. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, at Mr. Richard Ridwar's B. Town [W.I.].
[781]
Is just recovering from an accident which prevented him from waiting on General Williams; hopes to be able to ride down to Mr. Richard Ridwar's on Monday next; Mrs. and Miss Blackburn offer their comp[limen]ts to the General and join him [Blackburn] in requesting the pleasure of his [Williams'] company at this place as soon as he can make it convenient; if General Williams has any American newspapers, pamphlets, etc., by him, [Blackburn] will thank him for the perusal of them.
A.L. 1 p. 20 cm. × 12 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Coll. Blackburn.
1793 [Apr.13]
Memorandum of visits received and made in Charleston [S.C.], March 28-April 13, 1793.
[782]
Mr. Calhoun
Mr. Presstman
Col. Read 124 East Bay
Dr. Read
Dr. [Matthew] Irvine
Mr. Judge [Aedanus] Burke
Mr. [R.B.] Gilchrist
Mr. [John?] Owen
Dr. [David] Ramsey [Ramsay]
Maj. [Paul?] Hamilton
Dr. Reed
Mr. Hazlehurst
Mr. Holmes Collector
Maj. Hamilton
Mr. John Huger
Mr. John Mitchell
Mr. T. Morris
Mr. Kennedy
Mr. Reid
Gen. [Isaac] Huger
John S. Dart
Dr. Keith
Gen. [Christopher] Gadsden
Gen. Huger
Mr. J[ohn] Blake
Mr. [Ralph] Izard
Mr. [William Loughton?] Smith
Maj. Hamilton
Dr. Ramsay
Dr. [Peter] Fasseaux [Fayssoux]
Col. Dayton
Gen. Huger
Col. [William Augustine] Washington
Maj. [Pierce?] Butler
Mr. Gadsden, Jr.
Dr. Irvine
Mr. Calhoun
Mr. Dassaseur [DeSaussure] Pres[iden]t Bank
Mr. Gilchrist
Note from Maj. [Thomas] Shubrick
Judge [John] Rutledge
Mr. John Rutledge, Jr.
Rev. Mr. Smith
Gen. [Charles Cotesworth] Pinckney
Mr. Izard
Col. Morris
Mr. [Gabriel?] Manigault
D. in hand of Williams. 2 pp. 25 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: South Carolina Charleston etc.
1793 May 11
Thomas PINCKNEY, American minister, London [Eng.]. To Otho [Holland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[783]
Introduces to Williams Mr. [John] Harriott, an English magistrate who is going to America with his family, to settle; since Harriott is to land at Baltimore, Pinckney recommends him to Williams for information and attentions.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Mr. T. Pinkney [sic] 11 May 93. Mr. Harriott.
Enclosed with entry 890.
1793 May 15
M. H. IRWINE, Beltimore. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS.
[784]
Congratulates Williams on his return and hopes that his health is restored; would have come to present his respects in person, but forebore to do so, since Williams must be engaged with his particular friends.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
On same sheet as entry 785.
1793 May 16
O[tho] H[olland] W[ILLIAMS], Baltimore. To Citizen [Edmond] GENET, Minister Plenipotentiary from France, Philadelphia.
[785]
Hopes that Genet's reception by the President was in every respect agreeable to your wishes; if Genet is going to buy provisions, Baltimore is a cheaper market than Philadelphia; flour is 5 to 10 per cent lower than at Philadelphia; recommends Captain [John] Stricker, whom he introduced to Genet in Baltimore, as an agent; large quantities of flour now on hand, and on better terms now than later.
A.Df.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
On verso of entry 784.
1793 May 16
[Otho Holland WILLIAMS] Baltimore. To [Dr. Philip] THOMAS.
[786]
Feels much better since his arrival, but still mourns loss of my dear little Boy [Robert]; Mrs. Williams, too, begins to be less oppressed; consulted Mr. Smith about the purchase Thomas proposed, and Smith said it was not convenient for him to be concerned now; Smith thinks stock in the Bank of Maryland, now selling at 15 or 20 per cent advance, is a better investment than U.S. Bank stock now at par, and a much better investment than the best land in large quantities at [UNK]10 p[er] acre; only reason for this is the foar that the war may affect the U.S., and, consequently the Bank of the U.S.; the Bank of Maryland is less likely to be affected; he [Williams] has not the money now for the purchase Thomas speaks of, but may have it soon; Clyde [manservant] has gone after the grey horses, and is bringing up also a pair of old mares which Mrs. Dulany wants to give him [Williams] as a present; [John] Stricker got him a horse yesterday for [UNK]40, to compleat my sett of Bays for Carriage;
they are to work at the farm until he knows what he is going to do this summer; hopes he will not have to go beyond Williamsport; sorry the house at Ceresville [Frederick County] is not better.
A.L. 4 pp. 23 cm. × 19 cm. End of letter missing.
1793 May 27
Alex[ande]r McCASKEY, Fells Point [Baltimore]. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[787]
When Williams left for the West Indies, it appears that he ordered Mr. [Daniel] Delozier to expunge me out of the Customs; his friends in this town ask him the reason, as they think his reputation is impeached; Williams' Candid Reasons... will much oblige your Humble Servant.
A.L.S. 1 p. 21 cm. × 17 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From McCasky 27 May 93 No answer.
1793 May 28
C[ephas] BEALL, Millsborough. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[788]
Received Williams' letter of the 16th, and is overjoyed to hear of his safe return to his family; except for one or two items, the debts due to or from the estate of Col. [John] Stull are inconsiderable; Mr. [or Wm] Jenkins Hagar has obtd. Judgment for [UNK]67.4/ which with the costs will exceed [UNK]100. this Messrs. A. and B. Clagetts has got an assignment of, and will be settled out of the rent of the Mills; there is one other debt of about 100 Dollars which Beall has promised to pay by September; land is not yet sold; thinks a list of sales ought to be made out, for the register's office, but cannot do it himself; Williams' mares have arrived; Nebuchadnezzar... has already had 60 [?] mares and I expect he will at least have 20 or 30 more; Your niece and the children join me in affectionate Compts to you and family.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 34 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Cephas Beall 28 May 93.
1793 May 28
John T[hompson] MASON, Annapolis. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[789]
Does not know the amount of the judgment against Col. [John] Stull's executors, but Williams can find out in Hagerstown; encloses a full discharge of that debt; if it is convenient, Mason would like to have the money by July first; if, while Williams is in Hagerstown, he can make a draft on Baltimore in Mason's favor for the amount, and leave it with Capt. B [?] Davis it will be better than the money; sends also a statement of the debt and interest due from Adams; understands that Williams will pass quickly through our town on his way to the Sweet Springs [Va.].
A.L.S. 1 p. 23 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: J.T. Mason Esqr. 28 May 1793 No use to be made of the inclosed discharges until Mr. Mason is paid by bill or otherwise.
Enclosures missing.
1793 May 28
[Otho Holland WILLIAMS] Balt[imor]e. To J. WILLIAMS Merch[an]t.
[790]
Wants to have a man procured for him from one of the Eastern States who understands the management of oxen, is capable of driving six or eight pairs at a time, if required, either in the wagon, cart or plow; man is to live on a good farm and to be employed principally in the management of oxen and the care of stock; if married, it will be no objection, provided his wife can manage a dairy, etc.
A.Df. 1 p. 19 cm. × 23 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: To Mr J Williams Mercht. 28 May 1793 Oxen.
1793 May 29
Doctor W[illiam] MATTHEWS, Bohemia [Cecil County?]. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[791]
The horses arrived safely and he [Matthews] has given the directions about the Rev. Mr. Baston's [?] horse which Williams' messenger will ride back; glad Williams keeps his good spirits in his long illness.
A.L.S. 1 p. 21 cm. × 17 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Doctr. Mathews 29 May 1793.
1793 May 31
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS. To Dr. Philip THOMAS, Frederick.
[792]
Has heard that Gilmor sold some shares in the State Bank at an advance lately; he has not been out lately except on Monday forenoon to regulate, in the Custom House, the affairs of the Privatier, [sic] the Sans Culotte and her prize; wrote to Thomas this day week, enclosing a note for old Stedfast [David Bryan] bidding him send down the carriage horses and the two Bay riding mares; however, he [Williams] will not be able to leave as soon as he intended, and the horses need not be sent until Thursday; Robert Smith says that the Colonel [Samuel Smith?] has been at the jail door and was released by his creditors' accepting some compromise; bids Thomas hold on to his bank stock; had already sent the letter to the post office before he received Thomas' of the 29th; Primrose in fold [foal]! That's lucky again; Bryan's indiscretion may cost him [Williams] a good overseer, unless his inveterate rheumatism costs Bryan an employer; wants only the carriage Horses,... and [porhaps] little Moggy... and the Parsons mare and her foal; expects the Parson [James F. Armstrong] down from Trenton [N.J.], with a servant to take the mare home.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 23 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed: From G[enera]l Williams 31 May 1793.
1793 June 3
---------- VALCK. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS.
[793]
Mr. Valck's Respects to General Williams; tells him that George, the negro the general engaged this morning, left Valck without sufficient notice; Mr. V[alck] cannot part with him [George], if it is possible to retain him, which he begs the General to consider.
A.L. 1 p. 19 cm. × 11.5 cm.
On same sheet as entry 794.
1793 June 3
Otho Holland WILLIAMS. To Mr. -------- VALCK.
[794]
Ill in bed when he received Mr. Valck's note about George, and writes to tell Valck what had happened; he [Williams] wanted a man to drive his carriage; 10 or 12 days ago George came and applied, and was told to get a discharge from the last person he served; George returned and said Mr. Valck could not spare him, and this morning came again and said he had left Valck; thereupon Williams hired him on trial at seven dollars; George will carry this note to Mr. Valck and if Valck can retain him, all right; if not, he [Williams] presumes Valck will not object to his hiring him.
A.Df. 2 pp. 19 cm. × 11.5 cm.
On verso of entry 793.
1793 June 4
-------- VALCK. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[795]
Valck is sure Williams would not have hired George, had he known how improperly the man had behaved; decides therefore not to try to hold George, and only hopes General Williams may be served by George, better than he was himself.
A.L. 1 p. 23 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Mr. Valk 1793 George!
1793 June 10
Dr. James F. ARMSTRONG, Trenton [N.J.]. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[796]
Expected, before this, to have had a visit at Williams', but the prolonged rain and some ecclesiastical duties forced him to postpone it; presumes upon Williams' friendship in asking him to care for an old, faithful and most serviceable, domestic animal, yclepd Kate; expects to leave home the 17th, and, two or three days later, to see Williams; sends his greetings to Mrs. Williams, and Mrs. Armstrong adds hers tho unknown.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 24.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Dr. Armstrong 10 June 93.
1793 June 12
John BEATTY, Alexand[ri]a [Va.]. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[797]
Sends Williams a bond due April 1; thinks Williams said that he would discharge the bond whenever Beatty was ready to discount the interest; he [Beatty] would be glad if Williams could discharge the three last payments on discounting the interest; will give Williams a title to the land by that time, if it is not too short; Beatty's son, Zaccheus A., will present this letter, and will give Williams the bonds and a receipt for the money.
A.L.S. 1 p. 20.5 cm. × 16.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: John Beatty 12 June 1793.
1793 June 18
[Otho Holland WILLIAMS] Ceresville [Frederick County]. To Citizen ------ MOISSONNIER [Baltimore].
[798]
Sorry he was not in Baltimore when Moissonnier presented the letter from [Edmond] Genet; this letter will introduce him to Col. [Samuel] Smith and to Mr. Robert Smith, the Colonel's brother; Moissonnier is already acquainted with Williams' much respected friend, Mr. William Smith, who will be glad to introduce him to any gentlemen in town whom he wishes to know; Mr. Robert Smith's knowledge of the law may be holpful to Moissonnier's Consular Office.
Df. 1 p. 36 cm. × 23 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: To Citizen Moissonnier 18 June 1793.
1793 June 20
W[illiam] SMITH, Baltimore. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Frederick.
[799]
Clyde [Williams' manservant] was seen in Baltimore all during the day after he left Williams, but not since then; Otho thinks he saw him with Mr. Dulany's Sam, but Sam denies it; Clyde is probably still in town, for it is unlikely he has gone back to Williams, as Lydia says he has; the constables and watchmen are on the lookout for him and will get him, if he is still in town, but he is too artful to risk tarrying here; very hot in town for the last two days, in the Sun 110 yesterday; Robert Smith and his family went to the Park Monday; Betsy [?] is very sick.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 24 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Mr. Wm. Smith 20 June 1793.
1793 June 21
A[lexander] HAMILTON, Philadelphia. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[800]
Learned with real pleasure that Williams had returned from the West Indies in better health; the Collector of Annapolis is resigning July 1st; does Williams know anyone there fit and probably willing to serve; salary is 200 Dollars plus percentage and fees; Williams must avoid commitments, for it is the President's practice to seek information through different channels and to decide for himself.
A.L.S. 1 p. 26 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Private Coll. Ha[milto]n 21 June 93.
1793 June 27
R[obert] SMITH, merchant, Baltimore. To [Otho Holland WILLIAMS].
[801]
Because the deed, from Carriar [?] and others, had in it a reservation to Mrs. Johnston, [John] O'Donnell has asked Smith not to draw the proposed deeds until they hear from him [Williams]; O'Donnell thinks Williams and Mr. Bowley had not noticed that clause, and therefore he would be willing to consider himself not bound by the award; O'Donnell sends Williams a letter herein; The loss of your
Carriage-top is an affair of some concern, but your friends think the loss of Clyde is... a topick of consolation; however, all possible exertions are being made to prevent Clyde's escape; it is believed that Clyde and David Plunket's servant [James] who went with him were both in Philadelphia; Mr. D. Stewart Junr. of Philadelphia has been requested to employ Constables, etc., to catch them; Mrs. Williams' sister [Peggy, Mrs. Robert Smith] is at the park... she does not suffer her little daughter to forget any of you.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 31.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: R. Smith June 27 1793.
Enclosure missing.
1793 June 28
W[illiam] SMITH, Baltimore. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Ceresville near Frederick Town.
[802]
Glad Williams is no worse than when he left Baltimore; very severe weather here; went up to Harford [County] last week and stayed several days with Col. [Josias Carvel] Hall, whose family were all sick with flu, though they were out of danger before he [Smith] left; Clyde and David Plunket's man are in Philadelphia, supposed to be trying to ship for Bristol; believes Williams is well rid of Clyde, but will offer a reward of 40 dollars for him; received only a day or two ago a letter [from Williams] dated from Barbados the 26th and 27th of February.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 24 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Mr. Wm. Smith 28 June 1793.
1793 June 29
Capt. John STRICKER, Baltimore. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County].
[803]
Received Williams' letter of the 26th enclosing one for Citizen Moissonnier, Consul for France; Stricker had been advised not to have any thing to do with the French contract; therefore he declined to deliver Williams' letter, especially since the Consul does not speak English; is under obligations to Williams for the flattering way in which he spoke of him to the Consul.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 22.5 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Captn Stricker 29 June 93.
1793 July 5
D[aniel] DELOZIER, Baltimore. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County].
[804]
On [June] 14, he paid J[ohn] Beatty 666 67/100 dollars for Williams' bond to Beatty due in April; has enclosed a letter from Beatty to Williams, which he [Delozier] opened because Beatty's son asked him to do so; encloses also John Stull's bond to Mr. [?] Dulany; the balance is much over [UNK]100, so he will not discharge it without further instructions from Williams; Clyde [Williams' manservant] is said to have been seen in Philadelphia; Mr. [William] Smith advised him [Delozier] to send a constable up for Clyde, and he has done so; does not know Mr. John Galloway, and therefore asks Williams
for his address, since there may be more than one of his name; will pay 500 dollars to Otho [Williams, son of Elie]; Mr. Morton has not yet exercised the Hawk, but will do so within a week.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: D. Delozier 5 July 1793.
Enclosures missing.
1793 July 6
[Otho Holland WILLIAMS] Ceresville [Frederick County]. To A[lexander] HAMILTON [Secretary of the Treasury].
[805]
Did not receive Hamilton's letter of June 21 until July 4; would name Robert Denny to be Collector of Annapolis; Denny served as his [Williams'] deputy four or five years while he was Naval Officer under the state government; naval office included all the duties and all the powers, which are now distributed among collectors, naval officers, and surveyors; Denny is perfectly qualified; believes John Davidson, once major in the Maryland line, later in the State Council, would accept the position and thinks Davidson very well qualified; believes Hamilton is never indifferent about his [Williams'] welfare.
Df. 1 p. 36 cm. × 23.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: private to Coll. Hamilton 6 July 93.
1793 July 8
Col. T. BLACKBURN, Rippon Lodge [near Dumfries, Va.]. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore, near Frederick Town.
[806]
Received only two days ago Williams' letter of May 20, probably because it had been directed to near Fredericksburg instead of near Dumfries; sorry Williams had so fatiguing and disagreeable a journey through the Carolinas; Polly [Blackburn] has been taking the slippery elm bark since Williams' letter came, but that is too short a time to judge; Mrs. Blackburn and Polly were mortified a little at the loss of the bead purse, but were sure Williams would not blame them for it; regards to Mrs. Williams, Mr. William Smith, Mr. Robert Smith and his Lady.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Coll. Blackburn 8 July 93.
1793 July 8
W[illiam] SMITH, Baltimore. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County].
[807]
Captain Dennis came back July 7, and says that Clyde and [David] Plunket's man have gone on to New York; Dr. Ross, of Baltimore, who went to New York, will get somebody there to keep up the search; Jo Gale, captain of the packet that carried the two runaways to the head of Elk [Elkton], is afraid he will be blamed and is therefore taking part in the search; Williams has no doubt heard of the total destruction of Cape Francois [W.I.], and the massacre of most of the inhabitants; there is a rumor that two French war
vessels are now in the Chesapeake with several hundred fugitives on board.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 24 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Mr. Wm. Smith 8 July 93.
1793 July 9
C[ephas] BEALL, Millsborough. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS, Ceres Ville [Frederick County].
[808]
Since the season for covering is quite over, he has sent Richard with Nebuchadnizzer [sic] and the mares to Ceres Ville; the balance on Newcomer's account was paid last fall and the bond was given up; has been trying to sell Baker's place, as Williams directed, but doubts that he will succeed in doing so; would like to see Williams some time before the second week in August, in order to get some papers ready for the Orphans' Court which sits that week.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 20 cm. × 16.5 cm.
Endorsed: Cephas Beall 9 July 93.
1793 July 12
D[aniel] DELOZIER, Baltimore. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Frederick.
[809]
Did not present Williams' order to Mr. [John] O'Donnell, and, since Williams does not now want it presented, sends it back in this letter; more than forty ships or brigs are now in the harbor of Baltimore, having left Cape Francois [W.I.] to avoid the massacre; they are held to be vessels in distress, and are therefore not bound to pay taxes or fees; Baltimoreans have already subscribed almost fifteen thousand dollars to these refugees; has just received some small parcels from New York for Williams, and will send them on by the first private conveyance.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From D. Delozier 12 July 93.
Enclosure missing.
1793 July 19
D[aniel] DELOZIER, Baltimore. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County].
[810]
The fleet of merchantmen from Cape Francois [W.I.] consists of more than 40 vessels of 250 to 500 tons, loaded chiefly with coffee and sugar; the captains have reported to the Custom House and some have received permits to unload for repairs, or even to sell part of the cargo to pay expenses; some refugee passengers wish to sell what they salvaged from the massacre, and the captains, who fear such sales would subject them [the captains] to pay tonnage duties and fees, have refused to let the people sell their goods; law does not provide for such cases, and Delozier, though entirely sympathetic, wishes to be instructed.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 25 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: D. Delozier 19 July 93.
1793 July 19
W[illiam] SMITH, Baltimore. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS [Ceresville, Frederick County].
[811]
Glad everyone is in good health; San Domingo uprising has ruined the territory; this morning the Brig Prince William Henry, the Lovely Lass and one other have been attached or arrested under a libel in the admiralty court; the captain of the privateer was on his high Ropes, and refused to admit American jurisdiction; later he calmed down and gave peaceable possession; report from Philadelphia is that [Edmond] Genet has declared that if the President does not permit him to arm and fit out the Petite Democrat, a French prize, once the Little Sarah, he [Genet] will appeal to the people; very imprudent of Genet, if true; party spirit is running high in Philadelphia, and the flattery bestowed on Genet by the Republican or Jacobin Society may have made him think people would not support the government against him; Smith has not yet subscribed for Williams to the fund for the French refugees, since there may be a fund in Frederick; will probably see Williams next week on his [Smith's] way to Bath [Va.]; concluded Col. [Josias Carvel] Hall's family is well, since he has not heard from them; wheat crop around Baltimore very indifferent, the spring crops of every kind abudant.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 24 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Mr. Wm. Smith 19th July 1793.
1793 July 22
O[tho] H[olland] W[ILLIAMS] Ceresville [Frederick County]. To [Daniel] DELOZIER, Baltimore.
[812]
Joins Delozier in lamenting the situation of the French refugees from Cape Francois [W.I.], and would like to relieve them; however, if their property is landed and sold, he does not see how the payment of tonnage duties can be dispensed with; bids Delozier forward to the Secretary of the Treasury a letter which he encloses, and suggests that the Vice-consul might well write to the Secretary also; assures Delozier of his esteem.
Df.S. 1 p. 36 cm. × 22.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: To Mr. Delozier 22d July 1793.
1793 July 27
Ferd[inand] FAIRFAX, Shannon-hill, Berkely County [Va.]. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[813]
Introduces to Williams, for his patronage, a portrait artist, Mr. William Williams; the painter received a good education, studied Divinity, and held a parish in the lower part of Virginia; gave up the ministry for lack of support, and turned back to his Pensil; has done well with his painting and Fairfax hopes he will continue to do so.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 23 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Mr. Fred [sic] Fairfax 27 July 1793 Mr. Wm. Williams andc.
1793 Aug. 7
D[avid] PLUNKET, Baltimore. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, near Frederick.
[814]
Col. [Robert] Ballard has just died and already several people are trying to get the vacancy; John Purviance has good principles and considerable mercantile knowledge, and his being a perfect master of the French language must be a particular advantage; the unfortunate fate of Purviance's father [Samuel?], and the dependence of his sisters make him an even more deserving candidate; he [Plunket] has just learned that Delozier means to offer Williams his views, and Williams will probably favor Delozier.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 24.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: D Plunkett fav[oring] J Purviance 7 August 93.
1793 Aug. 10
W[illiam] SMITH, Bath [Va.]. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Hagers Town or Ceres Ville near Frederick Town.
[815]
Reached Bath the day after he left Williams; had a cough for a week after he arrived; bathes by five o'clock, rides, has breakfast, plays billiards, drinks the water, and plays whist the rest of the day; the company is numerous, genteel and agreeable; went to dinner at Mr. Mann Page's three or four days ago and nearly choked to death on a piece of steak; will stay at Bath as long as the good weather lasts.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 24 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Mr. Wm. Smith 10 Augt 93.
1793 Aug. 11
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Eliz[abe]th town [now Hagerstown]. To Dr. [Philip] THOMAS, Fred[eric]k.
[816]
Thomas has heard of their safe arrival; he [Williams] was fatigued by the trip; Rebecca [Thomas] is happy and is behaving well, but Williams does not bother about her since she is under the eye of her Aunt; has been to Williamsport and thinks the place is growing; God only knows in how short a time I must leave that, and objects infinitely more dear... to the care of my surviving friends; not worse, but not better, and not likely to get better; is busy now settling the accounts of Col. [John] Stull's estate; expects to get to Frederick in a few days; asks Thomas to help him get his carriage from that disgusting little scoundrel the Coachman; if the man is ready for the cloth, will Thomas buy what he thinks best, and take it to him; has just had a letter from Elio [Williams] from Fort Washington.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 34 cm. × 19.5 cm.
[1793 before Aug. 22]
Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS. To the Justices of Frederick County Court, Frederick.
[817]
Your remonstrant represented to the Court that he... [owned] part of... Dulany's Lott through which... public roads passed... and prayed leave to alter and straighten them. Whereupon the Court commissioned... [a] report thereupon; but no report... hath ever been made
thereon.... since [then] another road hath been laid out... all... authorized... by acts of the Legislature or by orders of the Court, to the very great injury of your remonstrant, who therefore prayeth leave to straighten the Pennsylvania road, as represented in the platt hereto annexed; the plat shows the lands Williams owns, the old county roads, the Monocacy ferry, the site of Williams' dwelling and barn, the site of the mill on Israel's Creek, and the road Williams prays for.
A.D.S. 3 pp. 24.5 cm. × 21 cm.
On same sheet as entries 818 and 819.
1793 Aug. [22]
Certified copy of the minutes of the Frederick County Court appointing commissioners to view and report upon the land of Williams, and upon his petition to change the road.
[818]
In hand of and signed by William Ritchie, Clerk of the Court.
On verso of entry 817.
1793 Aug. [23]
William BEATTY and James BEATTY. To the JUSTICES of FREDERICK COUNTY COURT.
[819]
Commissioners appointed by the Frederick County Court upon petition of Williams report that his petition to change a road running through his land ought to be granted.
In hand of Otho Holland Williams. Signed by Wm. Beatty and James Beatty.
Endorsed by Wm. Ritchie: report filed 23d Augt and thereupon petition granted. See minute.
On verso of entry 817.
1793 Sep. 4
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS. To Dr. Philip THOMAS.
[820]
Everything he takes increases his diarrhoea; his fever is not worse and not much better; his breast is less sore than usual; he is very weak and prefers his bod to his horse; Richard had the ague yesterday; the Dutch woman has escaped three days, but her son is very ill; [his son] William's eyes are still shut and are so sore that he cannot bear the light even on his closed lids; [sons] Edward's and Henry's eyes are more inflamed than yesterday; the children all seem in good spirits, and the others are recovering.
A.L.S. 1 p. 34.5 cm. × 21.5 cm.
Endorsed: 4 Sept. 1793 From G[enera]l Wms.
1793 Sep. 10
Gen. Dan. MORGAN. To Otho [Holland] WILLIAMS, near Frederick Town.
[821]
Unhappy that he did not take leave of Williams when Williams left Winchester [Va.]; Mr. Tidball told him [Morgan] that Williams and [Will] Heth had gone on, on their horses, about an hour before he got up that morning; hopes Williams did not think it disrespectful in him; hopes Williams will recover his health and bids him fight hard before he dies.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Genl. Morgan 10 Sept 93.
1793 Sep. 13
W[illiam] SMITH, Baltimore. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS.
[822]
Recently they have had frequent alarms, respecting a malignant fever in Philadelphia; letters say more than one hundred were buried in that city last Sunday; physicians had directed that all interments should be made in the night, so as not to alarm the citizens; the city is abandoned by great numbers of inhabitants and a total stop is put to all business there; two men have died here said to have come lately from Philadelphia, one at the Poor House, for no other place was willing to receive him; the inhabitants of Baltimore are much alarmed; Williams had perhaps better stay a few days at Ceresville [Frederick County]; Dr. [George] Buchanan, who attended one of the men who died yesterday, was taken unwell shortly after, was much frightened, but was more scared than hurt; Dr. Hutchison of Philadelphia and two or three others of the faculty are dead, of this fever; the President, his lady, and family stayed in town last night, on their way to Mount Vernon [Va.]; Washington said Secretary Hamilton was ill with the epidemic fever, but that he was expected to recover.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 24.5 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Mr. Wm. Smith 13 Septemr 93.
1793 Sep. 14
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Fred[eric]k. To R[andolph] B[randt] LATTIMORE [Latimer].
[823]
Received Latimer's letter enclosing one to his brother [Elie], who will reply as soon as he gets back from Fort Washington, whence he is expected any day; thanks Latimer for his good wishes; a friend wishes to know if there can be any compromise of the State's claim against old Col. [Patrick] Sim before the sale advertised by the sheriff takes place; if there is any possibility of such a compromise, someone should be authorized to postpone the sale.
A.Df.S. 1 p. 33.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: To Wallace and to Lattimore 14 Septr. 1793.
On same shoot as entry 824.
1793 Sep. 14
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Frederick. To Charles WALLACE [Annapolis].
[824]
He [Williams] and a friend have been negotiating for part of Col. [Patrick] Sims land on Monocacy, but have been hindored by a judgment which Wallace has against Colonel Sim; would Wallace transfer the judgment, and any collateral securities, if one half of the amount of his claim should be paid in cash on the first day of October next; most favorable terms will be expected p[er] the next post.
A.Df.S.
On verso of entry 823.
1793 Sep. 16
WALLACE and MUIR, Annapolis. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, at Frederick Town.
[825]
Williams' letter of September 14 is before them; they reject any proposition regarding the claim against Colonel [Patrick] Sim, which would only produce payment for one half the amount by the first of October next; if Williams can pay the whole, in cash or in United States six per cent stock at the cash price of stock in Philadelphia on that day [October 1], they will assign him the judgments and other securities.
Signed Wallace and Muir. 1 p. 24.5 cm. × 20 cm.
1793 Sep. 19
Randolph B[randt] LATIMER, Annapolis. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Frederick.
[826]
Glad to hear that Williams is well; would be glad to oblige Williams and his friend, but cannot make any compromise respecting the debt due from Colonel [Patrick] Sim, nor transfer the judgment, because Colonel Sim and others in his situation might say that through his agency they were made subject to individuals; if there is a sheriff's sale, he [Latimer] can't be censured; asked Governor [Thomas Sim] Lee to tell Williams that he [Latimer] would do anything he could to help Williams and Colonel Sim, but it would not be proper for him to do anything to delay the sale.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 21.5 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Mr. Lattimer 19th Septr. 93 respecting Coll. Sim.
1793 Sep. 23
Thos. GIBBONS, York Town, Virg[ini]a. To [William SMITH, Baltimore].
[827]
Has been Deputy Collector of Customs at Yorktown for three years, and now applies for Delozier's post as Deputy Collector, vacant since Delozier has been made Surveyor; will be obliged to Smith if he would use his influence with General Williams to appoint him [Gibbons]; Mr. Archor, the Collector at Yorktown, will speak for him; would accept any job in the Customs whose Emolum[ont]s were worth attention; I sail'd for your Son James.
A.L.S. 1 p. 24.5 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Enclosed with entry 829.
1793 Oct. 4
W[illiam] SMITH, Baltimore. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County].
[828]
Just received Williams' letter of yesterday; delayed answering a former letter because he has been out of town and because he was waiting for better tidings from Philadelphia, but news is worse; Mr. [Robert] Elliot left Philadelphia Tuesday, and had to come round by Peach Bottom ferry, not being permitted to travel the common route; Elliot has passed by Hanson's mill not attempting to enter the town, every avenue to which is guarded by fixed bayonets and the greatest precautions taken to prevent all intercourse with Philadelphia; safe for Williams to come to town; at present,
the mosquitoes are intolerable; Mr. Thompson cannot give up Williams' house till October 11, but Smith's house is always ready to receive Williams if he wants to come down before then.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 22.5 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Mr. Wm. Smith 4 Octr. 93.
1793 Oct. 5
W[illiam] SMITH, Baltimore. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County].
[829]
Hurried yesterday's letter to the post office before closing of the mail at 9 o'clock; Mr. [Robert] Elliot, the last person to come from Philadelphia, brings a very alarming account; if people know that he had seen and conversed with Elliot, he would be quarantined for eleven days; like precautions are being taken by all the small towns between Baltimore and Philadelphia, and also on the Eastern Shore of Mary[lan]d; the malignant fever is the most dreadful that ever before has visited America; 180 died last Wednesday week, many with twelve hours' sickness only; the doctors despond and are afraid to administer to the sick; is not certain that anyone attacked has recovered, but the disorder has not yet been taken by anyone who has not been in Philadelphia; encloses a letter from Mr. [Thomas] Gibbons of Virginia, which Williams will answer as he sees fit.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 22.5 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Mr. Wm. Smith 5 Octr. 93.
For enclosure see entry 827.
1793 Oct. 10
Captain [later General] John STRICKER, Baltimore. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Frederick-town.
[830]
Received Williams' letter of the 8th [of October?] and is sorry he cannot get Williams the servants he wants; the Mentor brought in thirty Germans but they were disposed of at once; there was only one mason in the lot and he had a family, which was an insurmountable obstacle; a French privateer brought in a prize full of Irishmon, but discharged them all, from his [the Captain's] love of liberty; only chance of getting the man Williams wants is that there is a vessel now in the Delaware bound for Philadelphia, which, because of the epidemic, may have to come to Baltimore instead.
A.L.S. 1 p. 23 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Captn. S[tri]cker 10 October 93.
1793 Oct. 11
D[aniel] DELOZIER, Baltimore. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Ceresville near Frederick.
[831]
Did not write before because he wanted to thank Williams in person for the many friendly services he did him; has engaged Mr. Dalrimple for the repairs on Williams' house; [UNK] S[mith] and Buchanan paid him [Delozier] 7,466 67/100 dollars for their acceptance in Williams' favor, of which Delozier paid Mr. J[ohn] Smith, Jr. 280 88/100 dollars for Williams' bond to Eichelberger; Maryland bank stock is selling at fifteen per cent advance, but no better than that; since he
[Delozier] was made inspector, Mr. Wilson has been doing, in Williams' name, the business of the Customs House, and he could probably do most of what Delozier used to do; did not want to put any new person into the Customs House in Williams' absence, but the business piled up so much that he had to; has put in a lad from Annapolis, a son of Rev. Mr. [Ralph] Higinbothom; he [Delozier] is so attached to the Customs, and since Williams' health will not admit of personal attention to any part of it, he wishes Williams to rely on him for anything he can do not incompatible with his own duties.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 34.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: D. Delozier 11 Octr. 93.
1793 Oct. 11
W[illiam] SMITH, Baltimore. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Ceresville near Frederick Town.
[832]
Since Williams' letter of October 8th, he [Smith] finds that 15 per cent is given for Maryland Bank Stock, when the dividend of 10 per cent per annum has been paid, or 20 per cent when it has not; the stock is nearly equal to the nett profits of our best farms, Orange and Ceresville not excepted; Baltimore's fears about the Philadelphia epidemic are abating, for no one not in Philadelphia has taken the disease, although it continues to rage there with the greatest violence; the Dutch minister, Mr. Van Birkell, Mr. Jonathan D. Sergint, a leading lawyer, Mr. Baldwin, and Captain Chase, brother of Samuel Chase, are all dead; Williams may as well come to town whenever he likes, and can stay at Smith's house till his own is repaired; Smith is alone in the house, and usually dines at Evans' with the Mass; he and Williams can ride out to Eutaw when the weather is fine, and oversee the rebuilding of the mill-dam; mosquitoes are nearly gone; great run of business in Baltimore, from Lancaster [Pa.], Reading [Pa.], etc.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 22.5 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Mr. Wm. Smith 11 Octr. 93.
1793 Oct. 12
W[illiam] SMITH, Baltimore. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[833]
Believes today that Bank stock will bring 17.5 or even 20 per cent, instead of the lower price he spoke of yesterday; thinks it worth while for Williams to have this information.
A.L.S. 1 p. 22.5 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Mr. Wm. Smith 12 Octr. 93.
1793 Oct. 21
John DAVIDSON, Annapolis. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[834]
Hears that Mr. David Giddis, formerly of Annapolis, has been made a supernumery Inspector for Baltimore; if Williams finds there is a vacancy into which Giddis can be put permanently, Davidson recommends him for it and will esteem a favor done to Giddis as if it had been done to him, himself.
A.L.S. 1 p. 22.5 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Maj[or Da]vidson 21 Octr. 93 Recommend[atio]n of Mr. Giddes.
1793 Oct. 24
John BECKLES, Barbados [W.I.]. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[835]
This is the first opportunity there has been to write to America since Captain Hall brought him Williams' letters; the Family at the Bay were very glad to hear that Williams and Miss [Polly] Blackburn had arrived safely; sympathizes with Williams over the death of his son [Robert]; the Barbadians are anxious that the mob, in America, misled by the French, should not force the United States government into the war; hopes from the sentiments in Williams' letter that Williams will be able to keep under the Rabble; Great Britain has been lately much disgraced by a precipitate retreat from Martinico without facing an enemy; Barbadoes is expecting momently a large English force under Sir Charles Grey, and no doubt Martinico and Guadaloupe will soon surrender; in the last three months a dreadful fever has carried off many Barbadians; the Governor has had to go to England for his health, and he will probably not survive the voyage; Williams promised to introduce Mrs. Williams to Mrs. [John] Beckles.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 22.5 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: J. Beckles Esqr. Octr. 1793 Barbados.
1793 Oct. 28
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To Dr. Philip THOMAS, Fred[eric]k.
[836]
Defenderfer says the medicinal bark was called for by Mantz's brother and sent off on Friday; nevertheless, he [Williams] will not send Bob [manservant] off without at least one bottle of it, for Goldthwait [UNK] some more of it; John Stricker will send Mr. Potts' claret and the bill; got to Baltimore only today after a distressing dust storm, and a change of weather that ended with a snow storm and a gale of wind; is comfortably quartered in Mr. [William] Smith's hospitable mansion; one of Thomas' brown mares was stolen at Liberty, and two others were let out of Mr. Smith's stable last night; part of them are found again; Bob will get his master [Thomas] to advertise for the missing; Williams could not scold Bob for his carelessness; wishes his own man were as sensitive as Bob; much annoyed by the inattention, insensibility and stupidity of ---- But good night; Mathews and Goldthwait have no calomel.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 22.5 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed: From Genl. Williams Octo 28, 1793.
1793 Oct.
Monthly Return of the Left Wing of the Legion of the United States, Composed of 2d and 3d Sub-Legions and Commanded by Brigadier General Thomas Posey for the Month of October 1793.
[837]
Tables of officers and men fit for duty, sick, present, absent; absentees accounted for (no names of individuals). Absent Officers Accounted for
2d. Sub-Legion
Capt. Bezaliel Howe recruiting at New York
[Capt.] Clyman Ditto Massachusetts
[Capt. Richard H] Greaton On command at Fort St. Clair
[Capt.] Miller Ditto Fort Hamilton
[Capt. Edward] Pierce Ditto Fort Washington
[Capt. John] Tillinghast in arrest Fo[r]t Washington
Lieutenant S[taats] Morris at New York
Ensign Dangerfield Sick at Fort Hamilton
Surgion [sic] Mate [Joseph] Strong at Fort Washington
[Surgeon's Mate George] Balfour Fort Franklin
[Surgeon's Mate] McCrasky [?] Carlisle [Pa.]
3d. Sub-Legion
Major Henry Garther [Gaither] on Command Georgia
Jonothan [sic] Cass on Furlough New Hampshire
Captain [Joseph] Kerr and Comp[an]y on Command in Carolina
[Capt. John] Cummins ---- Fort Washington
[Capt.] Flemming ----- Recruiting Virginia
[Capt. John] [sic] ---------
[Capt. Nicholas] Hannah ----------
[Capt. Richard] Sparks Recruiting in pennsylvania [sic]
Lieutenant Reed Recruiting in Jersey
[Lieut. John] Polhimus on Command Fort Franklin
Ensign [Archibald] Gray Sick in Virginia
[Ensign] Lightiser Recruiting in Pennsylvania
Surgion Mate [Joseph] Andrews on Command Fort St. Clair
[Surgeon's Mate Thomas] Farley in Georgia
Lieutennant Colo. Commandant [Campbell] Smith, Resigned 1st October
D. in hand of Campbell Smith. 2 pp. 39 cm. × 23.5 cm. Enclosed with entry 838.
1793 Nov. 16
Campbell SMITH, Headquarters S. W. Branch of Miami [Ohio?]. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS.
[838]
Has written to Williams several times since he arrived but communication is so precarious, that all letters both to and from him must have miscarried; an express has arrived here to-day from Fort Washington with the only dispatches that have been received from the Atlantic since August; is writing now to introduce to Williams Capt. Thomas Lewis of the Rifle Corps 3d Legion, special Messenger from the Commander in Chief to the War Office; Lewis can give Williams all the news, some of which Smith would not put on paper;
active operations have almost ceased for the winter, and each man not on active duty is building himself a hut for the bad season; the Indians are troublesome and bold; Colonel [David] Strong was fired at day before yesterday on his way to Fort Hamilton [Kentucky?], had to retreat to Fort Jefferson [Kentucky?]; Captain Tillinghast barely escaped; Williams' brother [Elie] left a few days ago for Fort Washington, and will, if he finds [Robert] Elliot there, go on at once to Philadelphia; if Williams sees his brother, he had better tell him that Quarter Master [James?] O'Hara is leaving for Philadelphia also, for O'Hara will spread misinformation about the contractors; the Commander-in-Chief [?] will try to avert censure of himself, by blaming the contractors; situation here is uncomfortable, idle and servile; great want of harmony and respect prevails; the Legion is only half complete and is getting less so; 900 Kentucky Militia at 1 Dol pr diem each have been discharged at the expiration of two months without doing anything more than assist in consuming provisions; Congress will undoubtedly order an investigation at its next session; encampment is on high ground on the S. W. Branch of Miami about six miles advanced of Fort Jefferson; the soldiers in their huts will form a town, an oblong square, 600 yds × 300 yds; is to be called Greene Ville in honor of the American hero; he [Smith] may go to Baltimore this winter; General [Thomas] Posey is determined to go to Philadelphia, and wishes Smith to go with him; Posey sends his compliments to Williams; Congress must provide for a Judge Advocate at its next session, and Smith would like Williams to write to the President in his favor; Smith has no hope [General Henry] Knox would appoint him; he [Smith] has been doing the work of an adjutant for General Posey's wing of the legion; will send Williams one of his wing reports; asks to be remembered to Mrs. Williams [his sister] and the children; has received alarming reports of the pestilence in Philadelphia; sends Williams a copy of the first Newspaper [Kentucke Gazette?] ever published in the North Western territory.
A.L.S. 6 pp. 39 cm. × 24 cm.
For enclosure of wing report see entry 837.
Enclosure of newspaper missing.
[1793] Nov. 21
Mary [Mrs. Otho Holland] WILLIAMS. To Catherine and Rebecca [THOMAS].
[839]
The habit-maker will not cut Catherine's habit by the measurements she sent, so she must now send a jacket or a habit coat with long sleeves, which must fit well in the length of the waist and arm; surtouts are not the thing at all but there is an elegant new fashion for riding habits; Rebecca's silk is in the hands of the dyer; sends her compliments to the girls' grandmother and a vast deal of love to their father; Genl Williams thinks himself much better; Henry talks every day of Uncle [John] Farrel; Mr. Morris is in town again and is half as fat again as he was in the summer; hopes
the hat and the other things arrived safely; the General sends love to everybody.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25 cm. × 20 cm.
1793 Nov. 29
Tho[ma]s GIBBONS, York Town [Va.]. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[840]
Accepts the appointment as inspector which Williams offered on November 9; hopes later to win a better berth; wants only enough to support himself and his six children; asks Williams to convey his thanks to Mr. William Smith for speaking of him to Williams.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25 cm. × 20.5 cm.
[1793 Nov.]
An act for incorporating the Militia of this State.
[841]
Draft of law, setting age limits, providing for nomination of officers, prescribing uniforms, setting exemptions and fines for failure to join the militia, appointing for each county a lieutenant of the county and setting his duties and his perquisites, and prescribing the oath to be taken by those enrolling.
Df., with interlineations, in the hand of Otho Holland Williams. 8 pp. 33 cm. × 21 cm., 2 pp. 7.5 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Enclosed with entry 842.
1793 Nov.
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To Col. [John Eager] HOWARD.
[842]
The establishment of a general militia in Maryland is as futile as the establishment of a perfect equality, and a select militia, though less objectionable, is extremely difficult to realize; thinks well of a Volunteer Militia, and thinks the law for that purpose not too difficult to draw; New Jersey has such a law; encloses a sketch of his idea for one; has not read the militia law of Congress; favors letting militia companies nominate their own officers; favors an age limit of 21 to 45 years; his [Williams'] health still too bad to let him exert himself.
A.Df.S. 4 pp. 34 cm. × 21 cm.
For enclosure see entry 841.
1793 Dec. 3
Officers of the Volunteer Corps of Militia, Baltimore. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS.
[843]
The officers thank him for reviewing the corps on Monday last, especially in his delicate state of health; sorry the corps is not better trained but they are not merely soldiers; they are citizens, occupied with civic duties; may Heaven restore him to health and give him long life.
2 pp. 33 cm. × 21 cm.
1793 Dec. 3
Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To the Officers of the Volunteer corps of Militia in Balt[imor]e.
[844]
Pleased and honored to receive through Captain [John] Stricker and Captain Thompson their invitation to review
the Corps on Monday; compliments them on their proficiency in arms; hopes the Assembly now in session will not adjourn without enacting a militia law; thanks them for their concern for his health.
A.Df.S. 2 pp. 34 cm. × 21.5 cm; 1 p. 17.5 cm. × 18.5 cm.
1793 Dec. 5
Governor Thos. S[im] LEE, Annapolis. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[845]
Secretary of War [Knox] informs Lee that the French minister tells him that a vessel at Baltimore owned by Zachary, Coopman and Co. is about to sail for Jeremie [West Indies], or Cape St. Nicholas mole [West Indies], loaded with French refugees on a non-pacific enterprise; Lee thinks the purpose is lawful and pacific and the detention of the vessel as asked by the Minister therefore improper; asks Williams to make an immediate inquiry and inform him by return of the bearer.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 23 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Gov. T. S. Lee 5 Dec. 93.
1793 Dec. 6
Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To Governor Thomas Sim LEE, Annapolis.
[846]
Received Lee's letter this morning but had to detain the messenger until he could gather the information; cannot trace any steps taken by the French refugees to fit out a vessel and sail for Jeremie [West Indies]; Zacharie, Coopman and Co. have no vessel which Williams could suspect; all the small French privateers have left the harbour; Custom house force will, of course, be vigilantly attentive.
L.S. 2 pp. 33.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: To Governor T. S. Lee 6 Dec. 93.
1793 Dec. 7
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Balt[imor]e. To David ROSS.
[847]
Just picked up an old letter of Ross' without date [sic] [entry 451] in which Ross offered him [Williams] some land near Col. [John] Beatty's; does not know what he answered or why he did not buy; wants a good well-timbered lot of 100 acres in that vicinity; he has one or two farms there for which he needs wood; perhaps it would suit Ross to discount the debt of Ross and Henderson on assignment of their bond to Chapline; if so, he may let Williams know the exact location of the lot, and his lowest price for it.
A.Df.S. 1 p. 30.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: To David Ross 7 Dec 93.
On verso of entry 451.
1793 Dec. 14
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Balt[imor]e. To Dr. Philip THOMAS, Fred[eric]k.
[848]
His friends all think for the past fortnight that he is better; he sleeps and eats well, and all his bodily functions are regular except his lungs; his doctors advise the strictest
circumspection; is taking no medicine save a little paregoric for his cough; for 10 days he has been taking each morning a teaspoonful of grated Indian turnip in a gill of new milk; it seems to help his lungs; smokes two segars a day and thinks they are of use to him; goes out when the weather is fine, and plays soldier with his sons when it is not; the British have arranged a peace between Portugal and the Dey [of Algiers] and between Holland and the Dey, and so let loose the Algerines upon American commerce; glad to see Congress approving the President's conduct; Mrs. Williams wants to know whether Miss Kitty [Thomas] received a letter from her, and whether she answered it.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 25 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: From Genl Williams Decr. 14 1793.
1793 Dec. 14
Otho Holland WILLIAMS. To the honorable the GENERAL ASSEMBLY of MARYLAND [Annapolis].
[849]
The petition of Otho Holland Williams most respectfully sheweth That he... bought three Lotts... on Monocasy Mannor, and paid for them in depreciation certificates, which he got for his personal services in lieu of specie; patents were issued; for one of the lots he had to buy up the lease over it, and the other lots were deficient in number of acres; he got a warrant of resurvey, and another patent according to the surveyor's return; finds that he got fewer acres than he had paid for, and therefore asks the legislature to reimburse him; still owes the State for another piece of land, and cannot think the State will coerce him about that without discounting what he overpaid.
A.D.S. 3 pp. 33.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: O. H. Williams pet. read Decr. 14 1793 Mr. Oneale Mr. Duvall Mr. Seney [?].
1793 Dec. 15
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To R[obert] SMITH.
[850]
[James] McHenry returned my papers without a word; he [Williams] should have told Smith he had sent another petition, and given it to the care of Mr. [Gabriel] Duvall, of the House of Delegates; the State has been unjust to him and others in another instance; an idiot Auditor in several cases gave a man more than one certificate for the same service; the next auditor saw the mistake and reported it to the legislature; the legislature which could easily have corrected the error, instead, ordered that no such service certificates should be received in payment for land; Smith's wife is here and murmurs.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 25 cm. × 20.5 cm.
1793 Dec. 18
S[amuel] SMITH, Philad[elphi]a. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[851]
Returns... [illegible] paper, with one remark redinked, to show that nothing is to be expected from hence;
glad Williams suffered no ill effects from his field day; did not deserve the unfriendly expression at the bottom of Williams' letter of December 3, and laid the expression to returning high spirits; has had two letters lately from Williams' brother, but kept the contents from him [Williams] in order not to alarm him; the Secretary at War [Henry Knox] received [General Anthony] Wayne's communication and gave it to the President but will not give it to Congress; the Secretary thinks the contractors cannot possibly do the thing, and says he told Secretary [Alexander] Hamilton so; Smith is glad Wayne can go no further; Wayne is to resign in the spring; thinks the contractors need not worry; Elie Williams will find a letter from Smith when he [Elie Williams] get to Fort [Pitt, Pittsburgh, Pa.]; [Robert] Elliot must have been at [Fort] Washington since November 12; the general voice here is for fitting a fleet against the Algerines, and a powerful party in Congress are for cutting off all communications with G[reat] B[ritain], or even with all states not having a trade treaty; has with very great difficulty satisfied all the bills drawn by E[lie] W[illiams]; no money at [Fort] Pitt to buy flour, and he [Smith] cannot ask for more money until he has vouchers to show for what he already paid; sends enclosed [Thomas] Jefferson's letter and [Edmond] Genet's answer, also a publication relative to [John] Jay and [Rufus] King and [Alexander James] Dallas; unless Dallas gets [Thomas] Mifflin and Jefferson to certify in his favor, the lie is fixed on him; Dallas seems to have lived with Genet in N[ew] Y[ork]; Williams can see Hamilton's letter at J.A.B's.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 23.5 cm. × 18.5 cm., 1 p. 18.5 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Coll. S. Smith 18 Dec. 93.
Enclosures missing.
1793 Dec. 19
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To Dr. Philip THOMAS [Frederick?].
[852]
Send me some Indian turnips; if there are none at Ceresville [Frederick County], perhaps [David] Bryan can find some; continues to take the camomile tea, but does not like it as well as he does the Portugal grapes he eats; must take an emetic tomorrow, for his lungs are full of Phlegm; cannot endure the least exposure; fog and a thunderstorm yesterday; scarce even a dray was dragged along our street, one of the most public in town; My breast is evidently stronger than heretofore... Upon this I found my hopes.... Send me some Indian turnips.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: From Genl. Williams Dec. 19 1793.
1793 Dec. 20
[Gov.] Tho[ma]s S[im] LEE, Annapolis. To [Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore].
[853]
Wrote October 5, calling Williams' attention to the British consul's warning about the French privateer Republic
which was said to have arrived in Baltimore with her ports concealed; thinks that either Williams or [Daniel] Delozier answered the letter, but cannot find the answer; will Williams send him a copy of that answer; if there was none, an answer now.
A.L.S. 1 p. 22.5 cm. × 18.5 cm.
On same sheet as entry 855.
1793 Dec. 20
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To Dr. Philip THOMAS.
[854]
Dr. [Miles] Lyttlejohn advised him to omit the emetic, and since he is better today, he obeyed; likes and respects Lyttlejohn; remembers gratefully Lyttlejohn's care and tenderness to his son Robert; [Dr. George] Brown sees him [Williams] as often, is as polite, but is more a man of the world; is as willing as Thomas is, that things between them shall jog along as they have always done, but insists that money matters shall be watched carefully; sends Thomas a paper he got last night from Col. Samuel Smith; Otho brought me your letter, by favor from Mr. [Benjamin] Ogle, and Williams is going to ask Mr. Ogle to carry back this answer; postage is no special concern, but he will not use any establishment that is not convenient to him, and the postman comes into town too late in the evening, and leaves too early in the morning; nobody is going to be in such a h-ll of a hurry; if Thomas or Farrol cannot escort one of the young ladies, he [Williams] will expect John [Hanson Thomas?] to do so, on his return this way, to Annapolis; Mrs. Williams has had Miss [Catherine] Thomas' letter about the riding habit.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 25 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: From Genl. W. Dec 20, 1793.
Enclosure missing.
1793 Dec. 22
O[tho] H[olland] W[ILLIA]MS, Baltimore. To Gov[erno]r T[homas] S[im] LEE [Annapolis].
[855]
[Daniel] Delozier will present this answer to Lee's letter of December 20, and will explain why it [the letter] was so long getting to Williams; the French privateer Republic did not escape a very close scrutiny; Williams doubts she augmented her force in Baltimore; thinks that instead, the Republic got rid of some of the hands she had.
A.Df.S. 1 p. 22.5 cm. × 18.5 cm.
On verso of entry 853.
1793 Dec. 23
C[ephas] BEALL, Hagars Town. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[856]
Received both of Williams' letters about Col. [John] Stull's unsold property and sends Williams herewith a list of such property; everybody is glad Williams' health is improved; Williams' brother has not yet come; has sent Williams some venison which he hopes he will like.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 22.5 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed: C Beall 23 Decr. 93.
For enclosure see entry 857.
[1793 Dec. 23]
A list of property belonging to the Estate of the late J[ohn] Stull which remains unsold.
[857]
138 acres of land in Stull's adition to Hagars Town; Part of lott in Bath Town Virginia. The personal property is not worth particularizing in an advertisement.
1 p. 21.5 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Enclosed with entry 856.
1793 Dec. 25-1794 Jan. 1
Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To Dr. Philip THOMAS.
[858]
Black Andrew Adams some years ago got Williams to discharge a bond for a piece of land; he has ungratefully obliged Williams to go to law to recover the money, which is still not paid; encloses a note to the sheriff for Thomas to read, seal, and deliver; Thomas or Farrell will please go, with [David] Bryan, to the sale of [Col. Patrick?] Sim's negroes and buy for him [Williams] two or three such as he (Old Stedfast) [Bryan] shall select; needs two or three very badly at Ceresville [Frederick County]; an enclosed note from Bryan will show how discontented he is; Bryan may stay where he is or take Shower's [?] or Young's place; he [Williams] is going to have managers instead of tenants for at least a year or two; January first, variable weather before Christmas caused him to catch a little cold, and next day he expected every moment a rupture of the old cycatrix; the Doctors were out, and he was about to bleed himself when [Dr. George] Brown arrived; he lost 6 or 8 ounces and was immediately relieved from pain; the cough has been very considerable and expectoration much increased; used no medicine, but took a little nitre with cold water before and after bleeding; has gone back to camomile tea, and thinks he is getting better; believes however that his disorder is inveterate and immovable; is happy at being with his family; has just heard of his brother's safe return to his home in Hagerstown; [Andrew?] Adams' son just called to say he is going to pay tomorrow, but Williams doesn't believe him.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 25 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Enclosures missing.
1793 Dec. 29
----- PARIA, Fells Point [Baltimore]. To Otho [Holland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[859]
Was an officer under General Count [Charles Hector] d'Estaing, and was wounded at Savannah [Ga.]; went back to Port au Prince [Hayti] and lived there until his property was destroyed; had to flee with his wife and child and has not even the necessities of life; wants to return to France where he has some property, but will not go until he has repaid his creditors forty-five dollars he owes; benevolent committee allows him three dollars a week; since this is not enough, he
must go at once to France and he asks Williams to get the committee to give him at once all that they would give him for the entire winter; if Williams would do something for him personally, he would accept it.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 32.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
On same sheet as entry 860.
1793 Dec. 30
Otho Holland WILLIAMS. To the COMMITTEE of the BENEVOLENT SOCIETY.
[860]
Has seen the scars of Paria's wounds and has seen that his clothing is insufficient; asks the Committee, if they can, to anticipate what they were to give him; promises to add to it, so that Paria can depart.
A.Df.S.
On verso of entry 859.
Memo added indicates that Williams and Dr. [Philip] Thomas gave 18.10.0, for Paria.
1793
W[illia]m BAYLY, Fred[eric]k Town. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS, Hagars Town.
[861]
Bayly found the following receipt for consumption, which was said never to have failed making a perfect cure; for the first day drink a strong tea of rattle weed root; the second day drink a tea of yarrow; the third, drink a strong tea of Ellicompain, and the fourth return to the rattle weed tea; eat no butter, sweet milk or salt; drink sour milk or buttermilk and eat all the rye mush desired; drink of liquors stronger than Port wine.
A.L.S. 1 p. 33.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Wm. Bayly 1793.
[1793]
Estimate of Imports, Exports andc., Baltimore.
[862]
Imports... will average about 3,500,000 dollars, wine, molasses, sugar, salt, and European dry goods; exports about 2,500,000 dollars, broadstuffs, lumbor, naval stores, and re-exported imports.
In hand of Daniel Delozier [?]. 2 pp. 34 cm. × 21 cm.
Pencil memo, Gordon of the Sloop? Bridgetown Norfolk [Va.] Tuesday 1 Jan 93, in hand of Otho Holland Williams.
1794 Jan. 3
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To Dr. Philip THOMAS, Frederick.
[863]
Received the old dry Indian turnip Thomas sent; has repeatedly and successfully used a styptic of which Thomas thought very litte, Ruspine's styptic; is very tired and discomposed; has only now and then intervals of pleasure not from absolute ease, but from a reconcilement to pain; lost some blood lately, and opportunely; is going to take 7 and 1 tomorrow morning, and hopes to get rid of this melancholy; hopes to see his brother [Elie] in a day or two; will be glad to receive Kitt [Catherine Hanson Thomas, Thomas' daughter] with the party; [P.S.] John [Hanson Thomas] came with the party.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 27.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: From Genl. Williams Jany 3. 1794.
1794 Jan. 5
----- PARIA. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[864]
Thanks Williams sincerely for the small sum he received, and is sorry Williams went to the Committee of the benevolent society and that success did not answer his pains; hopes Williams will not forget him if the society gets more money, for he [Paria] wants very badly to pay the forty-five dollars to his creditors.
A.L.S. 1 p. 33 cm. × 20.5 cm.
1793 [i.e., 1794] Jan. 6
John BEATTY, Alexand[ri]a [Va.]. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[865]
When he saw Williams at Frederick, Williams said he wanted a deed for the land he bought of Beatty, and Beatty said he would give it when the money still due was paid, and would discount the interest; Williams was to write to him about it and has not yet done so; asks Williams to let him know his mind by the next post; he [Beatty] called in April for the money then due, and did not get it; when he got it in June, Williams' deputy would not pay interest on it; thinks it would be only reasonable now if Williams pays this year as early as he paid late last year.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 21 cm. × 17.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From John Beatty 6 Jan 94.
Dated by Beatty 1793.
1794 Jan. 7
WALLACE and MUIR, Annapolis. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[866]
When Mr. [John] Davidson got back from Georgetown [D.C.], they searched his books and found out that the duty Williams still owed was for a pair of pier glasses imported in 1789; the reason the duty was expressed in sterling was that the people for whom I and M[uir] shipped goods were generally shippers of tobacco, who chose to have their Duties carried to account in London, and consequently got the officers to state them in English money.
Signed: Wallace and Muir. 1 p. 24 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Wallace and Muir 7 Jan 94.
1794 Jan. 10
C[hristopher] RICHMOND, Annapolis. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[867]
Has been confined to his room ever since Williams' letter of [January] 1st came; this morning he sent Williams' letter to B[enjamin] Harwood; Harwood answered that the receipt Williams wanted could not be given until it had, by legal process, been made to appear that the debtors were insolvent; about the interest on the 1000 dollars, Richmond thinks it was received by him, paid to Mr. [Samuel] Meredith on Williams' account, and his [Meredith's] receipt sent to Mr. [Daniel] Delozier; presumes there is another year's interest to Williams'
credit on the books of the Treasury of the United States now; presumes it is not important that [Luther] Martin's certificate and the power of attorney should be in Williams' hands immediately, so he will wait for a safe conveyance by whom to send them; That Ugly Dog Wister, is as cunning as the D---1 I wish he could be over-reached.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 23 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: C. Richmond Esqr. 10. Jany 94.
1794 Jan. 13
David PORTER, Baltimore. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[868]
Thinks himself entitled to an early [a high] number on the marine list of commanders, but must solicit friends to obtain it; asks Williams for a letter to the President, but since Williams does not know Porter very well, he cannot write to the President as warmly as probably he otherwise would do; it will be enough if he says Porter has a knowledge of ships-of-war such as few of his countrymen would claim to have; hopes that the charges Exhibited against me by William Thomas will not keep Williams from befriending him, for Thomas is unworthy of even the lowest commission from the President; Williams' recommendation is very essential, as he is the head of the department that Porter belongs to; is going to Philadelphia next week and will stop and see Williams before he goes.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 23 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From David Porter 13 Jan 94 No, Sir I know nothing so much in your favor as to authorize my recommend[atio]n.
1794 Jan. 19
James CALDER, Barrens. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[869]
Drew up a memorial for the relief of a [unnamed] gentleman and gave it to Mr. de la Serre [?] to give to Williams; now sends another drawn up in better form, and asks that it be substituted for the first; this Gentleman sends Williams his thanks for Williams' goodness to him; Calder sends his most respectfull compliments to those of your family I have the honour to be known to; would be glad to have Williams come up here and stay the summer.
A.L.S. 1 p. 23.5 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From -----Calder 19 Jan 1794.
1794 Jan. 21
FRENCH PATRIOTS, Baltimore. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[870]
The favor of General Williams' company is requested, by the French Patriots of Baltimore to dine at Gray's Garden, tomorrow 22d Jany to commemorate the late success of the arms of the French Republic.
1 p. 6.5 cm. × 9 cm.
Pasted on entry 871.
1794 Jan. 22
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To Mr. [UNK], Baltimore.
[871]
Declines, on account of his poor health, the dinner invitation of the French patriots; felicitates them on the advantages gained by France; the rights of man has been his ruling social principle all his life.
A.Df.S. 1 p. 33 cm. × 22.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Invitation from the French patriots and answer 22 Jan. 94.
Entry 870 is pasted onto this sheet.
1794 Jan. 23
E[lie] WILLIAMS, Indian Queen [Philadelphia]. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS.
[872]
Received [Otho H.'s] letter with the enclosure, and is glad to know he is better; urges him to eat and walk, preferring walking to riding; Mr. [Alexander] Hamilton talks kindly and will make up the contract as soon as Congress decides what the army ration is to be; no papers have been audited since he [Elie] was here in 1792, but the auditor is working on them now; [Gen. Anthony] Wayne's communications will not hurt them, but he [Elie] will have to make explanations to Hamilton; Wayne has indulged in a little unsupported rhetoric; bids Otho H. tell people he will be with them as soon as he can.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 23 cm. × 18.5 cm.
1794 Jan. 25
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Balt[imor]o. To Dr. Philip THOMAS, Frederick.
[873]
The Right Reverend [Thomas John Claggett?] called recently and, as he was leaving, Williams apologized for sending to him the order on Sewell; the Bishop [Claggett?] said the messenger had come to him, but that he had told him Sewell had gone on to Dr. Thomas'; Sewell did owe Ryan some money, but Williams does not know how much; Williams is sending thirty-five dollars for Sewell; his lungs are better, but the diarrhea is back again; the rascal Richard left his old wife here and married there without my consent, and then pleaded falsely that he thought I intended he should reside at Ceresville [Frederick County]; the ladies are all well, and he [Williams] and they have just come from evening tea at [John] Stricker's; love to Rebecca [Thomas] and Mr. [John] Farrell.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 25 cm. × 20.5 cm.
1794 Jan. 28
S[amuel] SMITH, Philad[elphia]. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[874]
Busier than he has ever been in his life before, since he is engaged in a new business, and must work hard to get all its details; must write four or five long letters by every post; does not like [James] Madison's resolutions, but finds the discussion on them is clearing away some prejudices he [Smith] and all other merchants held; has come to see
that the United States merchants are not under permanent restriction from the English law, except that they cannot carry American products to the British West Indies; is going to send Williams a pamphlet of the correspondence between [Thomas] Jefferson and [George] Hammond [the British minister] which will do honor to Jefferson.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 23 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Coll. Smith 28 Jan. 94.
1794 Feb. 1
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To [Dr. Philip] THOMAS.
[875]
For a week past, he has been too ill to write; his lungs are more free from pain, and more at ease than formerly, yet weak and worried as I am, continually, it is hardly possible to cherish a hope of being restored... I am not yet able to go out altho' the Weather is very fine; will attend to Thomas' letters of [January] 21 and 22 when he is able.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25 cm. × 21 cm.
1794 Feb. 2
E[lie] WILLIAMS, Philadelphia. To Otho H[olland]
[876]
Has laid his defence before the Secretary of the Treasury [Hamilton] and his accounts before the Auditor; in the coming week he may be able to say when he will get to Baltimore; Col. [Samuel] Smith says he wrote to O. H. Williams; the Secretary [of the Treasury] has not yet given out the terms of the contract, since Congress has not yet determined what items are to go into the army ration.
A.L.S. 1 p. 35 cm. × 23 cm.
Endorsed by O. H. Williams: E. Williams 2d Feb. 94.
1794 Feb. 3
Le Chevalier [UNK], Baltimore. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[877]
Wrote to Williams last week, to beg his assistance, as a former officer who had fought for Williams' country; has had no answer and is too miserable to come to see him; begs Williams to rescue him from the horrible misery in which he is plunged, and oblige a gallant man whose delicacy is wounded in having to confess his misfortune; his address is general delivery, Baltimore.
A.L.S. 1 p. 26 cm. × 20.5 cm. In French.
1794 Feb. 3
Le Ch[evalie]r DANTON [sic], Baltimore. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[878]
Contemporary translation into English of entry 877.
1 p. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
1794 Feb. 3
[Otho Holland WILLIAMS] Baltimore. To H[enry] KNOX, Sec[retary] of War.
[879]
Was asked by some of Mr. Barbier's friends to recommend him to Knox as a candidate for a commission in the United
States Army; did not know Barbier, but, having made investigation, is satisfied that he is a suitable person; Barbier's brother recently married into one of the most respectable families in the State and is now living here; among the French refugees here, some held commissions in the French army; suggests mildly that this is a good time to consider giving such men commissions in the United States army; a Mr. Paria came to the writer the other day half clad and half starved, with a wife and little daughter in the same situation, and he had been an Army officer; hard to keep such people from starving; they generally seem to have no qualifications, but for fighting and dancing.
Df. 2 pp. 33.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Enclosed with entry 880.
1794 Feb. 4
[Otho Holland WILLIAMS] Baltimore. To General [Henry] KNOX [Secretary of War].
[880]
Wrote yesterday a letter, to be enclosed herein, in favor of the policy of giving American commissions to former French officers; also solicits a commission for William Buchanan Smith, son of William Smith, brother to Campbell Smith and to Mrs. Williams; young Smith has lived all his life, too little restrained from the pursuit of his pleasures, and has no character but that of a Buck; he is about 27 years old, above six feet high, very stout, but well proportioned, handsome, and diffident; would accept a first lieutenancy in infantry or a second lieutenancy in cavalry; but if several new corps are to be raised, the number of recruits he could raise might entitle him to a company; does not write easily in his sick room.
Df. 2 pp. 34 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: To Genl Knox 3d and 4 February 94.
For enclosure see entry 879.
1794 Feb. 5
John BEATTY, Alexand[ri]a [Va.]. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[881]
Wrote to Williams some time ago about giving him a title to land he had bought, as soon as he paid the money down; has had no answer; owes some money to John and Robert Pleasants of Baltimore and has sont them a Note for three Hundred Dollars Negotiable in the Bank of Maryland which he asks Williams to endorse since his bond to Beatty will be due before that time; expects to be in Baltimore about April first.
A.L.S. 1 p. 21 cm. × 16.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: John Beatty 5 February 94.
1794 Feb. 10
_____ PARIA, Baltimore. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS.
[882]
Thanks Williams sincerely for his intervention with the Committee of Relief; presents his wife's respects along with his own.
A.L.S. 1 p. 23 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Mr. Paria.
1794 Feb. 11
John O'DONNELL. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[883]
Acknowledges Williams' letter of yesterday; Robert Smith's opinion, that there was a reserve of dower in the ground rent intended to be conveyed to him, led him to decline the proposed Exchange; wrote at once to Williams and concluded that both of them were disengaged; has since made improvements of his place so that it is now worth 900 pounds; had Mrs. Johnson offered, early in the business, to relinquish her dower right, O'Donnell would have had no possible objection; houses and lots have risen in value since he [O'Donnell] had reason to think himself disengaged; if, in all the circumstances, Williams thinks him still bound by the original contract, he will cheerfully submit.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From J. O'Donnell 11 Feb 94.
1794 Feb. 11
[Otho Holland WILLIAMS] Baltimore. To John O'DONNELL.
[884]
When he first treated with O'Donnell about the annuity on lot number 16, he thought he had a clear right to transfer it, without reserve to Mrs. Johnston or any one else; still thinks so, and refers O'Donnell to the more considered opinion of Mr. Smith, or to any other gentleman of the law; O'Donnoll did not propose to give up the arrangement, and Williams thought only that O'Donnell should be compensated for the risk, if any, or that he [Williams] should guarantee the annuity; since he [Williams] came home, he has been too ill and O'Donnell presumably too busy to revive the matter; had no reason to fear that any adventitious appreciation or depreciation of property could affect a contract resting upon the mutual confidence of Gentlemen; rests satisfied with O'Donnell's assurance that he will cheerfully comply; Mr. Smith has all the papers.
Df. 2 pp. 25 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: To J. O'Donnell 11 Feby 94.
1794 Feb. 13
John LAMB [Collector of Customs], New York. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS.
[885]
Has been informed that the Supervisor [of internal revenue] for this district is trying to get Congress to have the duties on spirits, wines and teas paid at the Supervisors' offices, instead of at the Custom House; tells this to Williams in order that he may write to his friends in Congress and try to defeat a law which would be highly injurious to the Collectors of the Customs, and of no benefit to the United States; has written to the Collectors at Boston [Mass.], New London [Conn.], Philadelphia, Norfolk [Va.] and Charleston [S.C.]; flatters himself that they can prevent its being passed; encloses Berry, Rogers, and Barry's account for Ruspine's [?] Styptic, and hopes Williams got it in good order and found it serviceable.
A.L.S. 25.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Coll. Lamb 13 February 1794 Answered the 20th Feb 23 Dollars transmitted.
1794 Feb. 14
Will[iam] ROBB, Balt[im]o[re]. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS [Baltimore].
[886]
Mr. Wilson, who is in Williams' office, is under Robb's protection and Robb is glad to learn that the merchants of the town are pleased with Wilson, especially since Mr. [Daniel] Delozier has been appointed to another office; wishes to remove Wilson and to put him into some other line of work, unless Williams will place him on the same footing as Mr. Delozier was, at the time he left the office; apologizes for not seeing Williams in person, and for not enquiring, at Williams' house, for the state of his health.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 23.5 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Mr. Wm. Robb Feb 94.
1794 Feb. 14
E[lie] WILLIAMS, Indian Queen, Philadelphia. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS.
[887]
Does not yet know when he can come down; all his papers are in the hands of the Auditor, and he must wait; advances to them, Elliot and Williams, have all been entered on the books, but the sums still owing to them are in bundles of papers not yet entered; [Alexander] Hamilton has not yet said what he thinks of the business between [Gen. Anthony] Wayne and the contractors, nor has he settled the contract for 1794; will be down just as soon as he can, for he knows Babby [Barbara Grosh Williams, Mrs. Elie W.] is by this time... impatient to see her household; Mr. John Hollins will give him [Otho H.] all the news; has just heard that the Indians are suing for peace, and that three different tribal flags were recently brought in to General Wayne; does not trust the Indians; if Anthony [Wayne] dont mind his eye they will play paoli upon him; the express [i.e., the messenger] says he left Elio Williams' letters in Hagerstown and Elie hopes they are in the mail, for he wants to hear what Elliot, his partner, has to say; P.S., he has just received his son's packet with the letters enclosed.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 23 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Otho Holland Williams: E. Williams, 14 Feby 1794 Phila.
1794 Feb. 15
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To William ROBB [Baltimore].
[888]
Received Robb's letter about young Wilson yesterday, but was too ill to answer it; when [Daniel] Delozier left, Wilson asked Williams about his [Wilson's] future salary, and Williams told him that his salary had been fixed, that it was enough, and that if he wished to leave, he could do so; Wilson did not leave but he tried to find out who was to have Delozier's place; later, Williams gave him a raise of fifty dollars per annum; Wilson promised to keep on, and to give a notice of three months if he left; Williams allowed as much importunity from Wilson and his friends as he could, but Robb's demand that Williams put the young man on the same footing that
Delozier had is a direct insult to the understanding of any man who pretends to know men or business matters; if it has been conceived that Williams cannot execute his office without Mr. Wilson, there has been some mistake.
A.Df.S. 2 pp. 34 cm. × 21 cm.
1794 Feb. 18
Henry [UNK], Manocasy [Monocacy]. To General [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[889]
Thanks Williams for giving him a subsistence on his [Williams'] plantation in Monocacy; asks Williams to let him come to Baltimore on business; wants to collect some money due him, to get his clothes from the tailor's; wants also to see those famous Gardens lately constructed by Messrs. Heisler and Willmann; after that, he will not soon again want to see Baltimore; asks Williams to let him know by the earliest suitable opportunity.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 20.5 cm. × 17 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Henry Stegman 18 February 94.
1794 Feb. 19
John HARRIOTT, New Port in Rhode Island. To Otho [Holland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[890]
A New Port sloop is leaving for Baltimore, and Harriott seizes the chance to enquire if Williams got his letter of August 4, saying he had a letter of introduction to Williams from Mr. [Thomas] Pinckney; was so exceedingly uncomfortable in Baltimore that he had to leave at once; engaged a Rhode Island vessel which happened to be leaving to bring himself and his family to New Port; has not yet seated himself though he has traveled 2,000 miles, and though he has for the present bought a pleasant small farm within a mile of New Port; does not know when he will see Williams, so he sends Pinckney's letter with this; left with Mr. Robert Smith two remarkably fine wether sheep for Williams, and hopes he liked them; wanted to bring some ram lambs but was not willing to risk Confiscation Fine and Imprisonment for doing so; his [Harriott's] prime interest is large scale agriculture, but labor is discouragingly hard to get, and dear; would be grateful if General Williams would get for him some first-quality peach brandy, which he understands can best be got from some gentlemen in the country; had to pay duty at Baltimore on some goods which he brought in for his own use; has since been told that goods, even if new, brought in for one's own use is not subject to duty; hopes Williams will write to him.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 22.5 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Mr. J. Harriott 19 March [sic] 1794.
For enclosure see entry 783.
1794 Feb. 20
E[lie] WILLIAMS, Philadelphia. To [Otho Holland WILLIAMS].
[891]
Received Otho's letter of the 15th, with the big package of letters, etc., from Fort Washington; letters confirm the
rumor of an Indian embassy asking a treaty of peace with the United States; settling his accounts is going to take so long that he is going to come down for a visit to his brother and his own family, and then go back; will confirm the 1794 contract before he comes down, though it has not the change in it, on which he wished to insist; the young man who will hand Otho this letter is a young Englishman named William Francis, who wants a clerical employment; Elie knows of him only that he writes a fair hand, is reasonably accurate and is willing to work a small time on trial; has gone over more than half the town and can't find any Godbold's Vegetable Balsam, but will not believe there is no such thing here till the other half of the City says so; sends A Bandbox for Madam and a book for her sons.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: E Williams 20th Febraury 1794.
1794 Feb. 24
Tench COXE, Philadelphia. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[892]
Sorry to hear that Williams' health is still bad; doubts that the legislature [Congress] is going to consider changing the way of doing business on wines, distilled spirits and tea.
L.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Tench Coxe Esqr 24th February 1794.
1794 Feb. 24
Arch[ibal]d MONCREIFF, Baltimore. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS [Baltimore].
[893]
Pleased that Williams found the port wine good and now sends him a dozen bottles; I never had any for sale, I got it in a present from a Friend in London about a year ago, there may perhaps be three or four dozen remaining which I shall retain for you.
A.L.S. 1 p. 24.5 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Mr. Montcrief 24 February 1794 1 Doz more good Port Acknowledged thankfully.
1794 Feb. 24
E[lie] WILLIAMS, Philadelphia. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[894]
How finds that he cannot leave on Tuesday, since the Secretary has not got the 1794 contract ready yet; is going to wait on Madam to Hagers Town and return here as soon as the papers are likely to be ready; he must see a proper statement on the Register H[o]urse books before he can believe that all things are right; does not know why there is so much delay.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 34 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed by Otho Holland Williams: E Williams 24 February 1794.
1794 Feb. 25
_____ D'ANTIN, Baltimore. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[895]
Says he is a former French officer who fought in this country, that he had to flee France and was despoiled by the English on the journey here, that he has neither money nor clothing; begs Williams to get him some money, and says he will be everlastingly grateful; asks Williams to send him some pecuniary help addressed to the General Delivery.
A.L.S. 1 p. 26 cm. × 20.5 cm. In French.
Enclosed with entry 903 and on the same sheet.
1794 Feb. 25
S[amuel] SMITH, Philad[elphi]a. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[896]
Received Williams' letter and will attend particularly to the business communicated by Colonel Lamb although he [Smith] has no apprehension that such a plan would (if proposed) meet with success or even with much countenance; Williams' brother is going home and will come back in a month when Smith is sure things will be smooth; thinks there will not be much more to be paid; [Gen. Anthony] Wayne has not done so much, although a fort so near their towns may make the Indians think more seriously of peace; thinks the United States may not be able to avoid war with Great Britain; he [Smith] is on a committee to consider the need of amending the revenue laws and will mention the points Williams complains of.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 23.5 cm. × 19.5 cm.
1794 Feb. 25
S[amuel] SMITH, Philadelphia. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[897]
Had already sealed a letter to Williams today when he was asked to help Captain Elie Dorsey whose Father has died lately and left him not one shilling; Dorsey claims that he applied frequently to be exchanged, while he was a prisoner during the Revolution, and that General [William] Smallwood told him he was not exchanged; however, it appears that he was exchanged, and that he was deranged and of course not Entitled to his claim; a certificate from Williams would help Dorsey, and Smith urges him to send one as soon as possible.
A.L.S. 1 p. 23.5 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Coll. S. Smith 25 February 1794.
1794 Feb. 26
C[ephas] BEALL, Millsborough. To [Otho Holland WILLIAMS].
[898]
Received Williams' letter of the 19th, and has made the entries in the day book; is about to engage in business but Williams had said that his [Williams'] brother was thinking of going into business here and that he might take Beall as his partner; Beall would be very glad to do so; must be off or on, Monday next, and must therefore know
by the next post or sooner what Williams' brother intends to do; since his [Beall's] marriage, he has done nothing but support his family which seems to be growing at a rapid rate; must stop since Mr. Martin [who will carry the letter] is passing by.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 33 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From C. Beall 26 February 94 Recd. 3d March 94.
1794 Mar. 2
David BRYAN, Ceresville [Frederick County] To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[899]
Reports to Williams, his employer, on the state of things at Ceresville; oure imploy is ben geten out our Crap be for the Spreng work coms on... the Ri in the other baren is thrashed... the Los of our he [hay?] we feel moch... the Stabls is Don and is gret Sedesfaxen which meney his caled to See the plan, the hen hous is Don in a Rof maner... the Brig [bridge] over the nu Rod... 2 Cart and for [four] men will not fenesh in 2 week... i send you by Bob a ham of becken [bacon] it wes [weighs] 80 1b and 2 turkes with 2½ 1b bater [butter], if you want mor becken I will send it bat it is not Smocked a nof yet; wants help in the work but i whish for no Mor of your Doche men [Dutchmon]; when he does not write, Williams can no the Resen verey well... the Evels that Attends oure Ples was and is in the Som Setuashen... your Stock Requires Mee to think and think and Dobel think... Der Sir i wish you to tri another [man]... Bot the farm i will not giv oup til i set Every worm fence on the ples you a pointed; account of cash paid out, and of money received, from October 25, 1793 to February 27, 1794.
A.L.S. 6 pp. 32.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Mr. Bryan 2d March 1794.
1794 Mar. 3
C[hristopher] RICHMOND, Annapolis. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[900]
Received Williams' letter of February 25, and thanks him for the friendship and good will; at present, he cannot accept Williams' offer, for he has consented to take his chance for the post of cashier of the Bank of Columbia; this will be determined by March 22, but Williams is not to wait on him.
A.L.S. 1 p. 23 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: frm: C. Richmond 3d. March 94.
1794 Mar. 3
Benjamin WILLIAMS, Balt[im]o[re]. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS.
[901]
In response to Otho's request, he [Benjamin] will try to get such a man as Otho wants; will write to his father who, on his farm near Boston [Mass.], uses oxen to the greatest advantage, and who can choose a suitable man, provided sufficient encouragement can be given to induce him to come such a distance; single man will probably be easier to find than a
man and woman, for the women near Boston are not so well acquainted with the dairy as in the more interior parts; needs to know Otho's ideas about wages, since he [Benjamin] is entirely ignorant about them.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 24 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed by Otho Holland Williams: From Mr. B. Williams 3d. March 94.
1794 Mar. 4
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS. To Dr. Philip THOMAS, Fred[eric]k.
[902]
Thomas must not charge him with [UNK]10.0.6, because he [Williams] has already struck it out of both accounts; the two sums Thomas says he received of I. [or J.] Y. in March and April have no indication of the year; he [Williams] must have all the papers of I.Y ---- [paper torn]; [David] Bryan has been worrying him about trying another [overseer for Ceresville, Frederick County]; if Bryan does go, Mr. [John] Farrel is to take immediate possession of Ceresville for him [Williams]; is very weary.
A.L.S. 1 p. 34 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: Genl. Williams Mar. 4, 1794.
1794 Mar. 5
Z. HOLLINGSWORTH. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[903]
Kept the letter [D'antin's] to Williams only because he wished to make some enquiries; the Frenchmen of his acquaintance do not know D'antin and do not hesitate to pronounce that he is an imposter.
A.L.S.
On verso of entry 895.
For enclosure see that entry.
1794 Mar. 6
S[amuel] SMITH, Philadelphia. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[904]
The enclosures in Williams' letter convinced Captain [Elie] Dorsey's friend that the captain is not entitled to more than the pay up until the time he was exchanged, and the attempt to get more will therefore be dropped; Williams' brother, whom Williams will soon see, is finding his accounts in better shape than Smith expected, but not so well as they should be, toil and risk considered; Congress has passed a law to borrow a million from the bank; it has also passed a report for the defense of the harbours; Baltimore is to have twenty pieces of 24 pound... Send for Capt. [John] Stricker and consult if you are of a different opinion I can have the Number increased... 14 Embrazers in front, 3 towards the Ferry, 3 toward O'Donnells, and Light Pieces toward the Land.... a redoubt with 6 pounders Inclosing Barracks for 50 Men,... two Men to a gun including Officers; 200 24 and 36 pounders to be cast at once; these with the Guns in the Arsenal and at the different forts will make a most respectable force; asks Williams how many guns there are at the fort and on Fells Point and what their
calibre is; agrees with Williams that the audacity of the British is hard to bear but thinks the United States is too weak now to resist; looks forward with pleasure to ten years hence; he [Smith] has from the beginning favored an embargo; people and events are now coming around to his point of view; better at the present to avoid a war; Smith asked the secretary of the Treasury for money; the secretary says he cannot pay any until the appropriation bill passes; that will not be before next week, so Major Fowler must go without; wants to know from Williams' brother how much he [Smith] must send Mr. Day.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 24 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Coll. Smith 6 March.
1794 Mar. 7
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Balt[imor]e. To [Dr. Philip THOMAS].
[905]
The bark has been helpful to his stomach, but the chill and the fever has been more regular; the cough is what it has always been; cold water or cold food causes a spasm of coughing and the discharge of [sputum] from the lungs; has a great liking for extremely highly seasoned foods; likes oysters and birds; Thomas will persist in a liberality to his [Williams'] people that is too great for him to repay; wants Thomas to accept one hundred dollars for his services to the end of December [1793] and then charge regularly, as he does other people; will follow Thomas' instructions as to diet and medicines.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
1794 Mar. 12
BERRY ROGERS and BERRY, New York. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[906]
Did not have Godbolds Vegetable Balsam but purchased it for him; are sending three bottles by the Schooner Polly and the other three bottles by the next opportunity.
Signed: Berry Rogers and Berry. 1 p. 25 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Berry Rogers and Barry [?] N York 12 Mar 94.
1794 Mar. 13
David STODDER, Fells Point [Baltimore]. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[907]
At Williams' request, he enquired about the Ordinance [sic] of and about Fells Point belonging to the Public; finds four 18 pounders, without mounting or equipage as far as he can find out.
A.L.S. 1 p. 22 cm. × 17 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: D. Stoddor report 13 March 94.
1794 Mar. 15
David HOPKINS. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[908]
Is a candidate for Adjutant General of the Maryland State militia and asks Williams' endorsement; has proofs of his army service, of the approval of the generals under whom he served, and the repeated thanks of General [George] Washington.
A.L.S. 1 p. 23.5 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: David Hopkins March 15 1794.
1794 Mar. 15
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Balt[imor]e. To Dr. Philip THOMAS, Fred[eric]k.
[909]
Cannot answer Thomas' letter of [March] 12 now; Otho [Williams, son of Elie] went with Thomas' note, to [William P.] Mathews [the druggist] who soon sent the medicines; encloses a bill for them, which he will pay; will consider Thomas' scheme of landjobbing as soon as he can think; hopes [David] Bryan will recover; Bryan is not to erect any building of any sort at Cerosville [Frederick County] without his [Williams'] consent; means to erect a dairy, washhouse, smokehouse of stone, all under one roof; Barnett is to be encouraged as much as he deserves, for he [Williams] wants a better-looking farm at Kittocton; his brother [Elie] waits for better weather, and he [OHW] may go with him as far as Frederick; has been able to ride horseback two hours a day and was able to dine at Mr. William Smith's on Thursday; has had much good from a blister, a big one, put on more than a week ago and kept open ever since; wants a pair of new rose blankets to sleep in, for sheets make him shiver; hopes Mr. [John] Farrell will be able to provide him with some birds.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: Genl. W 15 Mar 1794.
Enclosure missing.
1794 Mar. 18
BERRY ROGERS and BERRY, New York. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[910]
Are sending by the Schooner Thomas the other three bottles of Godbolds Vegetable Balsam, together with the pills, which, at General Lamb's request, they divided for fear of accident.
Signed: Berry Rogers and Berry. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Berry Rogers and Berry 18 Mar 94.
end vol 8
1794 Mar. 18
Geo[rge] FRENCH. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
start vol 9
[911]
Williams' note, left at Stark's [Tavern], was received too late to answer then; thought surely that only the latter loan was due; hoped to find an exact memorandum, but found only `1784 Payd Genl. Williams 12' ; recollects perfectly the making of the latter loan (in the Passage of the House Joining your Present dwelling at the Corner); thinks the first loan was repaid in a House opposite nearly to the one you live in, and... thinks a Mr. Lyon was present; hopes this will recall it to Williams' memory; Williams and Benjamin Stoddert are the only people he [French] ever borrowed money from.
A.L.S. 1 p. 28 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: G. French March 18th 94.
1794 Mar. 19
[John] O'DONNELL, Canton [Baltimore]. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[912]
O'Donnell did not intend to offend General Williams and does not think he said anything to call forth such an unpleasant note as Williams sent him yesterday; when his [Williams'?] nephew urged that the balance of the account be paid, he [O'Donnell] said he had not looked over the account yet; he said that if the general was in great need of the money, he would lend it to him but that he would not pay it until he had looked over the account; it was Williams himself who proposed April 1 as the date for beginning the reciprocal Benefits; O'Donnell cannot see that there is any claim for payment proper before that time; however, in order to avoid misunderstanding, he encloses a check on the Branch Bank for the amount demanded by General Williams.
A.L. 2 pp. 23.5 cm. × 19 cm.
On same sheet as entry 915.
Enclosure missing.
1794 Mar. 19
S[amuel] SMITH. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[913]
A Soldier who calls himself Jonathan Dyer says he lost his leg at Eutaw and that he has lost your discharge; if Williams remembers anything about it, will he please send Smith a certificate immediately; the man was in the 1st regiment, ------ Comp'y.
A.L.S. 1 p. 29 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Coll. Smith 19 Mar 94.
1794 Mar. 19
E[lie] WILLIAMS, Red House [Va.?]. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[914]
Announces his arrival at Red House before sundown; the roads were so much better than he expected that they could easily travel four miles an hour; hopes Otho will soon be able to make the journey; sends love to Sister [-in-law] and the family.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 19 cm. × 15 cm.
Endorsed: E Williams 19 March 94.
1794 Mar. 19
Otho Holland WILLIAMS. To John O'DONNELL, Canton [Baltimore].
[915]
O'Donnell's verbal message was sure to irritate the feelings of a gentleman already rendered extremely irritable by misfortune; but that misfortune is not pecuniary, and O'Donnell's reference to the General's want must have had a design to offend; as Mr. O'Donnell disavows the intention, Williams is satisfied; Williams did propose that the rents should be received as usual until April 1, but from the closing of the bargain at Canton, June 11, 1793, he considered himself bound by obligations stronger than the law can impose, to
comply fully with the intention of the parties, at that time, which was that the property thonexchanged should then pass from each to the other; however, it is presumably of little importance; he [Williams] wishes only to know the names of the tenants, the rents payable and the terms of their leases; acknowledges the receipt of a check from O'Donnell for the balance of his account, and thanks him for it.
A.Df. 2 pp.
On verso of entry 912.
1794 Mar. 20
S[amuel] SMITH, Philadelphia. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[916]
Has thought ever since he came up to Congress that war is inevitable, but, believing it an evil of the most serious nature, he determined to do nothing that would make America the aggressor and everything that would put her in a better defensive position; the Senate rejected his bill to encourage the recruiting service; [James] Madison's resolutions took up so much time that other useful bills were retarded; thus Madison's party was able to retard those other bills without openly opposing any but the Naval Armament bill; fear is expressed lest the Executive be made too strong; thinks the people had better turn Congress out and get a new set; Williams will please communicate anything I write to [Gen. John] Stricker. I have laid the Return and your Letter before Genl. [Henry] Knox and warmly recommended Stricker as the proper person to direct and execute the plans that the Engineer may fix on; No publication from my letter.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Coll. S. Smith 20 March 94.
1794 Mar. 20
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To [John] FARRELL.
[917]
Has just received 165 fine apple trees, which he will send back by his wagon; he hopes it is now on the road; wants them planted in the narrow field on the creek, in squares of thirty-three feet; will Farrell tell [David] Bryan and have Bryan oversee [Henry] Stegman, who is to do the actual planting; will Farrell take a good look at Stegman and see whether he really knows anything; not cortain that he [Williams] will ever see Ceresville [Frederick County] again, but he takes pleasure in improving it.
A.L.S. 1 p.
Enclosed with entry 919.
On verso of entry 918.
1794 Mar. 20
[Otho Holland WILLIAMS] Baltimore. To Dr. Philip THOMAS, Frederick.
[918]
A Comparative estimate of Lands and of Mary[lan]d Bank Stock, at given rates, and upon a presumption that each will retain its value, and no more, for ten years; may fortune favour all your enterprises.
A.L. 2 pp. 34 cm. × 21 cm.
Enclosed with entry 919.
On same sheet as entry 917.
1794 Mar. 20
Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To Dr. Philip THOMAS, Frederick.
[919]
Maryland Bank stock sold at 25 per cent before the dividend and 20 per cent after it, and may rise to 25 per cent; if Thomas determines to sell, let him transfer the stock, in form, to Williams, and he [Williams] can thus deal better with the Bank; the property Thomas has in view is valuable but not handsome; all the improvements are Gothic, and cost too much to be demolished for new ones; encloses a rough sketch of the relative values of Bank Stock and of land; if he [Williams] had 20 shares of the stock, he would leave [Col. John] Beatty's bargain on his hands for ten years at least; met our blooming friend Miss Lyd on the way home from the bank, but all she could do was to take his hand and burst into tears; explains in detail how his bad health prevented him from going with his brother on a trip; next day, I rode three miles, to Eutaw, the chill on me all the way.... I went to bed, in about an hour the chill... gave place to a fever; disappointed not to meet Mr. [William] Smith at Eutaw; crossed the wood land about two miles, to his other place, Orange; he had just gone; exercise and the sultry heat of the day enfeebled me to an uncommon degree; lay an hour in agony, on a Negro's Bed -- then was refreshed with a little toast and water; the fever abated, and Williams returned home more confortably than he hoped; feels much recovered; explains that he let Catherine [Thomas]... go with the party... she was happy while here, but she c[oul]d not bear to stay after the party had determined on going. Farewell.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
For enclosures see entries 917 and 918.
1794 Mar. 22
E[lie] WILLIAMS, Frederick. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[920]
Arrived at Col. [John] Beatty's the second evening after leaving Baltimore and yesterday came here; hurried past Ceresville [Frederick County] yesterday faster than usual on account of the rain, but took nearly an hour to hear [David] Bryan and take a look at the colts, etc.; the addition of stables and shed made to the barn is capital; Bryan takes much pleasure in the new arrangements; Bryan requested him [Elie] to talk Dutch to [Henry] Stegman, the gardener, and not only advise him but tell him sharp, that he must work hard; Bryan says Stegman does nothing; this opinion is corroborated by that of Doctor [Philip] Thomas; if the man does not perform much hard labour, he will do many little things about Williams' orchard and garden; the improvements in the orchard and small garden fruit will be pleasing.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 24 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Otho Holland Williams: Elie Williams 22d [March] 94.
1794 Mar. 23
John O'DONNELL, Canton [Baltimore]. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[921]
The Names of the TenAnts living on the Lot you had from me are Windner and Blackburne. The former occupies the Frame House on Gay Street and the latter the Brick House on Back Street. They both were to pay at the Rate of 36 p[er] annum. The Ground Rent commences from the 25th Inst.
A.L.S. 1 p. 23.5 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From O'Donnell 23 March 94 Ronts andc.
1794 Mar. 23
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To Dr. Philip THOMAS, Frederick.
[922]
The weather has been fine [all day] and I have suffered very much less than common. Walked with tolerable ease in the forenoon. In the afternoon rode 3 or 4 miles without fatigue; have [David] Bryan send Pero down with my Carriage, and [say] that I have a load of fruit trees and Garden Shr[ubs] Waiting for Bob; too late for Thomas to return the [Thomas] Jefferson pamphlet Williams wanted back; Here is a puzzle for you.
A.L.S. 1 p. 34 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: Genl. W. 23 Mar. 1794; and in different hand, Recd. Balto. March 24th 1794 and forwarded by yr Hble. Servt Jno. Steele.
Enclosure missing.
1794 Mar. 24
[Dr.] P[hilip] THOMAS, Frederick. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS.
[923]
Disappointed that Williams did not come, but glad it was only the weather that kept him away; pained to read, in Williams' letter p[er] post yesterday that he had suffered so very much in his jaunt to Eutaw and Orange; advises him to walk or ride as much as he can and thus throw the blood into the extremities and relieve the chest; pleased that Williams is using blisters again; has Williams tried the cascarilla as a substitute for the bark; confesses that he [Thomas] has more reliance on repeated emetics and exercise than on either bark or cascarilla; [David] Bryan and Basil have both recovered; went to Ceresville [Frederick County] and told them to send the wagon down [to Baltimore]; complaints were lodged against [Henry] Stegman for indolence, inability to work and for disturbing the peace of the family, particularly of Bob!; Thomas therefore discharged Stegman; today Stegman came in and begged to be allowed to stay; Stegman cannot earn his mush at Ceresville; [John] Farrell will see to the planting of the trees as soon as they come; Coresville looks better and better; the fence
on the Pennsylvania road is made on the new plan, and the other fencing to intersect is going forward; the farm house itself will be rendered very much more agreeable by taking the road away from the door; [Richard?] Potts tells him [Thomas] that war against Great Britain is inevitable, and war will cause the price of land to fall; Potts adds that all kinds of paper have fallen and thinks he [Thomas] had better sell his bank stock if he can get 20 per cent for it; if Williams agrees with this reasoning, he [Thomas] sends power of attorney to sell his twenty sharos; also a draft on the bank for my last dividend; shall he [Thomas] send Farrell down next week to escort Williams up, shall he come himself, or what.
A.L.S. 5 pp. 24 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: P. Thomas 24 March 94.
For enclosure see entry 924.
1794 Mar. 24
[Dr.] P[hilip] THOMAS, Frederick. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS.
[924]
Power of attorney for Williams to sell Thomas' 20 shares of stock in the Bank of Maryland, and to do anything necessary, that Thomas could do himself if he were present.
A.L.S. 1 p. 24 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Witnessed by John Farrell.
Endorsed: P. Thomas to O. H. Williams Letter of atty to sell Maryland Bank Stock 24 Mar 94.
Enclosed with entry 923.
1794 Mar. 25
Tho[mas] HARRIS Jun., Annapolis. To Samuel CHASE, Baltimore.
[925]
Has just written to Williams soliciting a position in his office, and referred Williams to Chase; flatters himself that Chase knows him sufficiently to warrant a recommendation should he think proper to honor him so far; Gwinn would recommend him [Harris], but thinks (Gwinn being a relation), that someone else would be better.
A.L.S. 1 p. 24.5 cm. × 19 cm.
Enclosed with entry 927.
1794 Mar. 25
Tho[ma]s HARRIS, Jr.,Annapolis. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[926]
Applies for a position to take the management of Williams' business; has been employed by Mr. W. Gwinn, but Mr. Gwinn's business has declined greatly, and he has given Harris permission to apply to Williams; Mr. Gwinn would be willing to recommend him, but since he is his [Harris'] uncle, he suggests that Williams apply to Mr. [Samuel] Chase or any other gentleman attending the General Court; Mr. G[ustavus] Scott knows that he [Harris] has had charge of the General Court office for the Eastern Shore for three years; if Williams is not already suited, Harris would like to know at once what recommendations he wants and upon what Terms I may [ex]pect to live with you.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 24 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed: From Thos. Harris jun 25 March 94 Clerk.
1794 Mar. 26
Sam[uel] CHASE, Balt[imor]e Town. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Balt[imor]e Town.
[927]
Has just received the enclosed letter from Mr. [Thomas] Harris; if Williams needs a gentleman to conduct his office, Harris is worthy and able; best wishes for Williams' health.
A.L.S. 1 p. 34 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Saml Chase Esqr. 26 March 94 Recom[mendin]g Mr. Harris.
For enclosure see entry 925.
1794 Mar. 26
Dr. P[hilip] THOMAS, Frederick. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[928]
Wrote to Williams night before last and all is still well; if forced into war to defend our rights, trust we shall strike home with one consent; God grant us peace, and a restoration of your health.
A.L.S. 1 p. 21 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: P. Thomas 2d [sic] March 94.
1794 Mar. 27
Andrew BUCHANAN, London [Eng.]. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS.
[929]
Received Williams' letter of December 11; has succeeded in getting a groom Williams will be pleased with; the man has lived with Count Golofgin [Golovkin] near Moscow, where he had 300 horses to care for; he has lived also with the Prince of Wales and with a Mr. Wheeler; terms are high, but the man is at the head of his profession and must be offered some inducement to get him to leave England; sends Williams some implements used in England for docking and breaking horses, also patterns of shoes and plates, and a racing saddle of the most approved style; if Williams does not want those things, Mr. Charles Ridgely of Hampton would be glad to get them; encloses a bill for 23.2.3 which Williams can pay to Mr. Henry Worthington; hears that the wife of William Wright, the groom, is an excellent cook and has been in the Prince of Wales' family; glad Williams' health permits him to view the Volunteer Corps of Baltimore; President's [Washington] message was much admired in London by all ranks of people; English gentlemen like particularly the way the President treats Genot [Genet]; a nonimportation of certain things might be a good thing for the United States, for they have the raw materials, and with encouragement could build up the manufacturing; sends newspapers by Captain Traverse; has advanced William Wright [UNK]17.7, which Williams may charge against Wright and pay to him [Buchanan]; sends compliments to Mrs. Williams.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 23.5 cm. × 19 cm.
Enclosures missing.
1794 Mar. 29
C[hristopher] RICHMOND, Annapolis. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[930]
Received Williams' favor of the 18th; has paid to Benj[ami]n 118 dollars 35 cents and 59/3, to Wallace and Muir 32/11 Curr[enc]y which leaves a small balance; expects to see Williams and will give him the balance, the receipts and his satisfactory answer to your kind propositions made... the 25 February.
A.L.S. 1 p. 23 cm. × 19 cm.
1794 Mar. 29
[Otho Holland WILLIAMS] Balt[imor]e. To Captain David STODDER.
[931]
The cutter has now returned to her station at the entrance of the harbour and Williams need not further trouble Stodder or his volunteers; he [Williams] will not fail to make suitable representations to the Executive; the detachment may be withdrawn this evening -- as privately as may be.
A.Df. 1 p. 21.5 cm. × 18 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Captn. David Stodder 29 March 94.
1794 Mar. 30
David STODDER, Fells Point [Baltimore]. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[932]
Williams' requests of yesterday and the day before have been complied with, and in the manner he suggested; the Volunteers do not deserve thanks for a service so triflen, and they are always ready to serve the public.
A.L.S. 1 p. 34 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Captn. Stodder 30 March 94.
1794 Mar.
Teresa [Williams] DAVIS. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[933]
Must trouble her brother once more as you are the only farther I ever experienced; shall she sell her house; with the proceeds she and her husband can pay Williams his account against them; she does not want to leave the place where they are, so her husband will buy a lot and put up a brick house, and a store room on it that he can rent for twenty pounds a year; her husband will keep a small wagon and two horses, and there is good bread made by that, we pay 3 shilling now for halling a load of wood; she would keep a few genteel boarders; lacks money to buy and work a farm; would he part with this lot joining hers; hopes brother Eli[e] will be home soon; tell Miteda [Matilda?] I coll my girl for her.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 30.5 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Tere[sa] Davis March 1794 Mem for E Williams.
On same sheet as entry 934.
1794 Mar.
Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To [Elie WILLIAMS].
[934]
Agreed that their sister, Teresa Davis, shall have all the money she gets from the sale of her house paid to Elie, who is to deduct what she owes Otho; he [Otho] will sell her
the lot she wants to buy; she will deposit the price with Elie, and he [Elie] will give her a conveyance after payments.
A.N. On verso of entry 933.
1794 Apr. 1
C[hristopher] RICHMOND, Annapolis. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[935]
Intended to get up to Baltimore to see Williams early this week, but has been ill; will be there next Saturday; the council have seen your Letter by friday's post; since the Governor did not return `till last night, the acknowledgment has not been made in form; however, all is right.
A.L.S. 1 p. 23 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From C [Ri]chmond Apl. 94.
1794 Apr. 2
[Henry] KNOX, War Department. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[936]
Received Williams' letter of February 3, and apologizes for delay in answering it; in accordance with the policy of Congress, he [Knox] wrote to Capt. John Stricker of Baltimore to have the cannon at Whetstone point put in order, but Stricker cannot undertake that work; Major [John Jacob Ulrich] Rivardi, who has been appointed to direct the fortifications at Baltimore, Alexandria [Va.] and Horfolk [Va.], was told to give Stricker the necessary directions about the cannon; at Rivardi's wish, Knox asks Williams to appoint Mr. Barbier or some other officer of the French artillery, of character and great ability; the appointee is to survey the cannon and tell Knox and the governor which are worth fixing up; the French have a new carriage which renders embrasures unnecessary, if the ground will admit of firing en barbette; Knox wants this carriage used whenever possible, even though it costs more; if Barbier does not know about this new carriage, Mr. [Louis Henry] Boutillior, Mr. DePrade, Mr. Vanir, who are at Baltimore, will be competent; the appointee will arrange for the execution of all business calling for the expenditure of money; if he also supervises the actual carrying out of the work, he is to have two dollars a day while actually employed.
L.S. 3 pp. 32.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From the Secretary of War 2d Apl. 94.
1794 Apr. 2
[Henry] KNOX, War Department. To [Otho Holland WILLIAMS] Baltimore.
[937]
Asks Williams to give the enclosed letter to the person he selects to disburse the money allotted to Baltimore, and to send him the name of the person appointed.
L.S. 1 p. 32.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From the Secretary of War 2d Apl. 94.
Enclosure missing.
1794 Apr. 2
Thos. S[im] LEE, Council Chambers, Annapolis. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[938]
Acknowledges Williams' letter of March 28; State militia has not yet been organized, so that it will not be possible to give anyone a regular commission to carry out the resolution of Congress; doubts not that the militia of Baltimore will be glad to act as volunteers and help Williams give effect to the views of the federal government.
A.L.S. 1 p. 33 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Govr. T. S. Leo 2d Apl. 1794.
1794 Apr. 3
[Alexander HAMILTON] Treasury Department. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[939]
It is necessary to engage some fit person to procure materials, tools and laborers and to be charged with the disbursement of all moneys, for fortifying Baltimore; the sum is 4225 dollars and 44 cents plus 500 dollars for mounting the artillery; agent will get a commission of 2½ per cent; The Secretary at War will give particular directions; vouchers must be taken not only for every payment of money, but for every delivery of articles; an assistant to the engineer will have the care of the materials furnished, and will oversee the workmen; the agent appointed by Williams must himself pay the workmen, on lists made out by the assistant to the engineer, and each workman must sign opposite his name; Treasurer has been directed to remit Williams 1500 Dollars; for this, Williams will give duplicate receipts, according to a form included herein; wishes to know as soon as possible, the name of the man Williams appoints.
Copy. 3 pp. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: Copy from Sec. of Treasy. 4 April 94.
On same sheet as entry 941.
Enclosed with entry 946.
1794 Apr. 4
Thos. S[im] LEE, Annapolis. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[940]
Major [John Jacob Ulrich] Rivardi has been appointed by the President of the United States to fortify Baltimore, Alexandria [Va.], and Norfolk [Va.], and Rivardi has asked Lee to appoint some one in Baltimore to help him there; since Norfalk is deemed more important, Rivardi is to spend but little time in Baltimore, and the burden of superintending the work there will fall largely on this appointee; uncertain whether any compensation is certain or promised, though he [Lee] presumes there will be one if the work takes much time; asks Williams to see Rivardi, choose some competent person who will undertake the work, and deliver to that person the power enclosed; Captain [John] Stricker would be good, but he is said to be unwilling; apologizes for giving Williams this trouble.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 23 cm. × 19 cm.
1794 Apr. 4
[Samuel MEREDITH] Treasury of the United States. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[941]
In accordance with the request of the Secretary of the Treasury, encloses to Williams three drafts numbered 5628 to 5630, for 500 dollars each, on the receipt of which Williams will forward a voucher to Meredith.
Copy on verso of entry 939.
Enclosed with entry 946.
1794 Apr. 4
[Otho Holland WILLIAMS] Baltimore. To Louis Henry BOUTEILLER [Baltimore].
[942]
Appoints Bouteiller to be the chief Artillery Officer for the Port of Baltimore, to put it in a state of defence; refers him to the Secretary General [Henry] Knox for his instructions.
L. Signature cut out. 2 pp. 17 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: To Mr. Bouteiller Artillerist 4 April 1794. Original ret'd.
1794 Apr. 4
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To Genl. Henry [UNK].
[943]
Has appointed Mr. Louis Henry Bouteiller (Chief of a Brigade of Artillery in the armies of France) to be Chief Artillerist for this port; Bouteiller will have to get the consent of the Minister of France; appointed Mr. Samuel Dodge, an active citizen, to carry out the actual execution of the work.
A.Df.S. 2 pp. 18 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: To Genl. Knox 4 April 1794.
1794 Apr. 7
[Otho Holland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To Gov. T[homas] S[im] LEE.
[944]
By authority of the Department of War, Williams anticipated Lee's instructions of April 4 which he received by Major [John Jacob Ulrich] Rivardi; appointed Mr. Samuel Dodge to superintend the execution of the military works to be erected for the defence of Baltimore; the business requires all his time and skill; encloses the instructions, without direction, which came with Lee's letter; received Lee's letter of the 2d, but it required no answer.
A.L.S. 1 p. 33.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: To Govr. T. S. Lee 7 April 94.
Enclosure missing.
1794 Apr. 9
[Dr. Philip THOMAS] Frederick. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[945]
Uneasy at not hearing from Williams; weather has been so cool lately that he did not expect him to come up to Frederick; [Henry] Stegman came to Ceresville [Frederick County] yesterday and said Williams was too ill to see him while he was in Baltimore; supposes it was Williams' disinclination to be pestered by the worthless man that
prevented Stegman from seeing him, but feels uneasy; bids Williams come up and bring the family; [David] Bryan has had a relapse because he would go out in the rain; Bryan is a madman and a blockhead; Barnett's wife died and while she lay a corpse, her mother, a Mrs. Stallings who lived with the late Colo. [Patrick?] Sim... took off her daughters clothes, put them and herself into the waggon with the Corps and observed it was `a good opportunity for her to move down'! She minded the death of her daughter as much as... one fly the death of another; [John] Farrell has finished the tree planting at Ceresville as nearly agreeable to your orders... as 99 cents and 99/100 of a cent is to a dollar; Thomas made Farrell plant the peach trees 20 feet apart instead of 15; 165 apple trees and 372 peach trees, of which 52 are choice sorts, are planted; Thomas has more than 1,000 peach seedlings at Mt. Philip, for us next year; the helpless worthless sett of W's have at least quit Williams' Kittoctan Farm and gone off 200 miles; before the W.[?] family left, Thomas succeeded in making them pay him [UNK]18.4; They said they never expected to pay the Doctor; thinks Kittocton farm would be a better place for Williams to build his summer residence than Ceresville is.
A.L. Signature cut out. 3 pp. 26 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: P Thomas 9 April 1794.
1794 Apr. 10
D[aniel] DELOZIER, Balt[imor]e. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS, Frederick.
[946]
Encloses copies of two letters received, and asks Williams for instructions about them; the three warrants mentioned in the Treasurer's letter are in the care of Mr. Wilson; Major [Christopher] Richmond is leaving Baltimore for Annapolis tomorrow, and says he will accept Williams' terms, if he [Richmond] may put off beginning the business till about the first of June, since he cannot leave Annapolis sooner; fears that Williams will take injury from the damp unpleasant weather on his present trip.
A.L.S. 1 p. 33.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: D. Delozier 10th Apl. 94.
For enclosures see entries 939 and 941.
1794 Apr. 13
Rob[er]t ELLIOT, Fort Washington [Ohio]. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[947]
Nothing would give him more pleasure than to have Williams drop him a line now and then; is in a great bustle trying to keep Mad Anthony Wayne in temper, but he som times about the full of the Moon gits out of all bounds.... he is of all the men I Ever hadd anything to do with the most unsertain in his arangements he is somthing like the Foal that the Germins ware on the tops of there Barns full as uncertain; nevertheless, he is on good terms with Wayne, and hopes to be able to complete the contract [of Elliot and Williams to furnish army rations] advantageously; now and then I dab him with flatery
which he bears better than any man I Ever met with... thin [then] he [Wayne] says we will take one other Cup mining [meaning] wine... it is a task to dale with a fool; has not heard from Elie [Williams] for two months, and asks Otho Holland to send him news.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 22 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed by Delozier: Robt. Elliott 13 April 1794.
1794 Apr. 15
C[hristopher] RICHMOND, Annapolis. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Frederick Town.
[948]
Received, on April 11, Williams' letters of April 3d and 7th; came on up to Baltimore, for it was possible that Williams had not, after all, set out on his journey; cannot at this moment resign as a member of the council, for [William] Pinkney is over on the Eastern Shore, and someone else is ill, so that his [Richmond's] resignation would leave too few on the Council for it to function; will enter upon the execution of Williams' business by June first; presumes the usual clerks will be retained; says Williams need not be apprehensive about the Council, for Richmond is convinced no member gave the construction he [Williams] suspects to the words used; if the members of the Council could bolieve that Williams, as Collector of the Port, is eligible to serve as commander of the militia, they would offer him the command, and for the time being, that place is next in honor to the Governor.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 26 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: C. Richmond 15 April 1794.
[1794] Apr. 19
[Mary Smith, Mrs. O.H., WILLIAMS]. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS [Frederick].
[949]
Mr. Hart is going to Frederick tomorrow, so she seizes that opportunity to send him a letter; had hoped to get a letter by last night's post; they have all had colds and whooping cough, but the warm weather of the past few days has cured them; Letty Purviance has been staying with them; is sorry to hear that the new coachman upset the carriage they have used so long.
A.L. Signature cut out. 3 pp. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
1794 Apr. 22
Benjamin WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Frederick Town.
[950]
Wrote to his father, as Williams requested, and has just had a reply; hard to get a man of integrity and ability to come so far on an uncertainty, but he has talked to a young man who is exceedingly honest and industrious; the man's name is Blaney, and his wife is also industrious and a good manager; Blaney asks questions about the requirement and the salary; must be satisfied before he quits his present situation.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 23 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: Mr. [Ben]j Williams 22d Apl. 94.
1794 Apr. 22
Mary [Smith, Mrs. O.H.] WILLIAMS. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Frederick.
[951]
Received his letter by Mr. Clarke last Sunday, and is disappointed not to have any news about his health; Mr. [Richard] Curson asked her to tell him [Williams] that he wrote to New York for the information Williams wanted; encloses a letter which she hoped he had already received; asks him to pay Mrs. Morris for a pot of butter, and to have [David] Bryan [the overseer at Ceresville, Frederick County] send her some bacon the first opportunity he has; her father [William Smith] has just left her; Smith is going up to Harford [County] tomorrow to see about the Canal [?].
A.L.S. 2 pp. 34 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: M. Williams 19 and 22d Apl. 94.
1794 Apr. 23
E[lie] WILLIAMS, Hagers Town. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[952]
Got home in good time and health; Col. [Nathaniel] Rochester goes to Baltimore and will offer Otho H. a good chance to write to Mr. [?] Langworthy about the education of their [the Williamses'] boys; another man offered to care for twelve boys at 200 dollars a year, but this one's moral character is not good; If Mr Langworthy can live on 300 Dollars let him come on it, if not let him have as far as 500 for twelve boys,... he is to teach lattin if required, but my object at present is to have the English language taught Grammatically, and the Mathematics.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 32 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed: E. Williams 23 Apl. 94.
1794 Apr. 26
Richard CURSON, Balt[imor]e. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Frederick.
[953]
Received Williams' note and waited on your Lady to request when she wrote you, to mention the Needful should be done Immediate, for I could not give you the necessary information; forwarded Williams' letter to his [Curson's] friends in New York; hopes their answer will be satisfactory; very disagreeable weather since Williams left town.
L.S. 1 p. 23.5 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed: R. Curson 26 April 1794 Augment wines.
1794 Apr. 28
C[ephas] BEALL, Millsborough. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS.
[954]
The old cider mill Beall was talking about last summer will soon be at Mrs. Kimbol's; if Williams wants to have one made like it, will he please do it soon, for Beall wishes to have it sent on to Millsborough; must go to Annapolis in a fortnight, and will stop to see Williams on his way back.
A.L.S. 1 p. 35 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: From C. Beall 28 April 1794.
1794 May 6
Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To Beng[amin] WILLIAMS.
[955]
Thanks Benjamin for his letter of April 22; is satisfied with the recommendation of Benjamin and his father as to Blaney's talents and character; wishes Blaney had said what he must have, and not reserved the right to refuse what may be offered; Blaney will be expected to manage a farm of 300-500 acres, with a suitable number of hands, animals and implements; crops are wheat and other cereals, potatoes, hay and other food for stock; stock is horses, cows, sheep, pigs and poultry; Blaney must lead and not drive, for my people are unaccustomed to the lash and require admonitions but seldom; Blaney need not be a constant day laborer, but he should from time to time put his hand to everything; the best farm, to which Mr. B[laney] may be appointed, is connected with a grist mill, a saw mill, and a ferry; proper persons are over each of these, but the chief manager must superinted and keep the simple accounts; Mrs. Blaney must conduct and superinted the household with one, or two, or more maids; cooking for the servants, washing and mending, spinning, knitting, management of the dairy, and a little care of the kitchen garden; they will have a comfortable farm house and the same subsistence as all Williams' other people; this includes beef, bacon, pork, bread, vegetables of every kind that a good farm can produce, milk, butter, poultry, etc.; if the Blaneys want to have East and West Indian products at their own expense, he [Williams] has no objection; they may not raise stock or keep horses of their own; if they are going to church or on necessary business, they may ride one of Williams' horses; highest salary he has every paid to a manager was fifty pounds, United States currency (Dollars at 7/6); offers this to Blaney, but wants him to come within five weeks or not till October; he [Williams] will be away during the interval.
A.Df. 3 pp. 33.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: To B. Williams merch[an]t 6 May 1794.
1794 May 17
John STRICKER, Baltimore. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Frederick.
[956]
Capt. [Joshua] Barney returned yesterday, but his ship and cargo were condemned for His Majesty's service; Congress [of the United States] had decided not to continue, and this and the recent attitude of the judges in the Windward Islands [B.W.I.] had led people to suppose Barney's ship and cargo might be favorably treated; the instructions [of the British government] of January 8 [1794] had not yet been received at Jamaica [B.W.I.]; Barney left Jamaica on April 29 at a time when there was great lack of provisions and its to be lamented that they are so soon to be relived from an inconvenience, wholly in our power, that would reduce them to starvation; the resolution to discontinue the embargo has revived trade, and there are plenty of people willing to
reopen trade with the West Indies; the price of flour has consequently risen to 46/ and 48/ from the wagons.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 23.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: J. Stricker May 17th 1794.
1794 May 19
Sam[uel] DODGE, Baltimore. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[957]
Has been instructed from Williams' office to furnish monthly reports; cannot now make any accurate brief statement, but if Williams wants a full and long one, he can try to make one; has spent about 1300 of the 1500 dollars received, for materials and labor for the barracks; has also paid for one gun carriage, since rendered useless by the bursting of one of the 18-pounders; has the timber for carriages for 11 of the heavy guns, and is looking for that for the seven travelling carriages and for the platforms within eight days; will have the carriages made as soon and as cheaply as possible; impossible to say much about the expense of the fortifications; the lower part is nearly as high as it is to be, and the upper part if going forward; most of the work on the fortifications ought to be done within 60 days.
A.D.S. 3 pp. 23.5 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed: Saml Dodge May 19 1794.
1794 May 19
C[hristopher] RICHMOND, Annapolis. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[958]
Received Williams' letter of [May] 6th, and is glad his health is so much better; hopes to be with him Saturday week [May 31].
A.L.S. 1 p. 23 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed: C. Richmond May 19th 1794.
1794 May 22
Dr. Philip THOMAS, Frederick. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS.
[959]
I rejoice... at the safe delivery of your justly dear wife. It was highly affectionate in her to say she was pleased that you was absent... during her distress...; excuses them [the Williamses] from calling it Philip Thomas. Let him be named Robert Smith; wishes it had been a daughter; all right for Williams to walk ten miles a day, or ride fifty miles, but he should rest at the end of every mile on foot, and every ten miles on horseback; Away to the Sweet Springs [Va.] as soon as Mrs. Williams is safely up and there away with medicines; an enclosed letter to Coulson [?] encloses a letter to his [Thomas'] nephew about some plows; [John] Stricker is very obliging to Thomas when it is his immediate interest to be so, but quite otherwise when he thinks it is not, yet he is always smooth in profession; [P.S.] Young Farrell says Coulson who lives next door to Stricker is his [Farrell's] friend and will forward anything to him immediately; asks Williams to pay Coulson or Stricker, whomever the plows are sent to the care of.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 27.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: Dr. Thomas 22d May 94.
Enclosure missing.
1794 May 25
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Balt[imor]e. To [Dr. Philip] THOMAS.
[960]
Thomas' sympathy and compassion please and pain him [Williams], but Thomas' reasoning, about the benefits of telling our troubles to our dearest friends, will not appeal to Williams' wife whose grief is silent; stayed home only a day or two, and then went to [Col. Josias Carvel] Hall's, riding the 35 miles in a day; the weather was warm, but the air pleasant while he was there; Mrs. [Jenny Smith, Mrs. J. C.] Hall came back with him Wednesday [May 21]; his appetite became worse, and so did his health; Dr. [Miles] Littlejohn and Dr. [George] Brown came and gave him a [huge] emetic, but Littlejohn thought him much too weak to use the squill pills; awoke from a little nap with a cough and a spitting of bright blood; in that distressing desponding situation I listened to the voice of a female friend and committed myself to the care of an Empirick of whom Miss Letty [Letitia] Purviance told him; sent for the man, an Englishman with letters recommending him to Bishop [John] Carroll and to Dr. [?] Johnson, and rather liked him; the man promises him that he will notice a favorable change in 8 or 10 days; has delivered Thomas' letter to Coulson.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
1794 May 26
C[ephas] BEALL, Millsborough. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS.
[961]
Spoke to Williams' brother about the renting of the mills now occupied by Clagetts and Beall, whose lease expires September 1; since Williams will probably be absent then, he had as well make some arrangements before he goes; some repairs are necessary; if he [Beall] stays on, he will probably wish to make considerable improvements at his own expense.
A.L.S. 1 p. 35 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: Mr. C. Beall 26 May 1794.
1794 May 28
H[umphrey] PEIRCE. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS.
[962]
Some expressions which Williams used on Monday last hurt Peirce's feelings extremely; Peirce's brother had lost, out of the Naval Office, a check drawn by Buchanan Spear and Co., and the clerk had said that Peirce himself was one of those in the office the morning the check was lost; the only possible conclusion Peirce can draw is that Williams must have entertained a suspicion that he had taken the check and that there was a collusion between him and his brother.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 23 cm. × 19 cm.
On same sheet as entry 964.
1794 May 28
[Dr.] P[hilip] THOMAS, Frederick. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[963]
Supposed Williams had gone to Harford [County] for Mrs. Williams' sister, Mrs. [Josias Carvel] Hall; has seen Barnett and [David] Bryan; at Ceresville [Frederick County] on Saturday everybody was busy; Lime Kiln will soon be ready; Barnett got fifty dollars from him [Thomas]; Barnett said things were going on well at home; Thomas mentioned Mr. Kimboll's German servant and asked Barnett whether he thought he could govern him; Barnett said he had no doubt of it; this fellow had been so outrageously insolent to his mistress that she had determined to sell him; Barnett marched him off promising to flog him for the first offence; the fellow is honest and industrious when sober and would make a good servant if he had a proper master; he has two years to stay; will Williams purchase at 60 dollars if Barnett likes him; bids Williams hurry off to the Sweet Springs [Va.] before the weather becomes too bloody hot.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 21 cm. × 17 cm.
Endorsed: Dr. Thomas 28 May 1794.
1794 [May 28]
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS. To H[umphrey] PIERCE [sic].
[964]
If Mr. Pierce will, at any time, call on Williams with one or two common friends, Williams will, with candor, repeat the conversation which Mr. Pierce has not accurately stated; no expression escaped Williams which implied the least reflection on Mr. Pierce.
A.Df., on verso of entry 962.
1794 May 30
A[lexander] C[ontee] HANSON, Annapolis. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[965]
Hanson heard that Williams was hurt at receiving no answer to a letter Williams lately wrote on business of importance; Williams should have written again on the theory that the first letter had miscarried, as it did; is at present ill; begs Williams to write again about the subject of his other letter.
A.L. Signature cut out. 2 pp. 23.5 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed: A.C. Hanson May 30th 1794.
1794 May 31
C[hristopher] RICHMOND, Annapolis. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[966]
Intended to take the stage this morning, but the weather is too bad; will take the packet, which will leave as soon as the wind is fair.
A.L.S. 1 p. 23 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed: C. Richmond May 31st. 1794.
1794 June 4
[Dr.] P[hilip] THOMAS, Frederick. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[967]
Glad Williams was not alarmed at expectorating a little florid blood; sorry the emetic failed again; the man who is now treating Williams does not appear to be a quack although
Williams calls him one; he [Thomas] is not offended that Williams listened to someone who persuaded him to call in a man who seemed likely to afford relief; the chief thing Williams had used recently, the Antipertussis, Thomas is sure is similar to the Antimonial Wine which he thinks a most valuable remedy; wishes the new physician the desired success, let his character be what it may; asks Williams to try to find out what remedies the new physician does use; all is well on both farms, except that Barnett had a return of his intermittent fever last week; well at Waggoners Hall was sunk 18 feet on Saturday, and the other works are going on properly; all are well here.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 27 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: Doctor Thomas 4 June 1794.
1794 June 5
O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS. To R[ober]t SMITH.
[968]
Sends Smith a package of papers marked Leeds and asks him to take care of them and to conduct the business they relate to; Mr. Ringold is going to consult Mr. Mason as his counsel, and Williams hopes that Mason and Smith may be able to get together and arrange a settlement; if it be expedient to refer to the Court of Chancery, Smith is to ask Luther Martin to join him for Martin has been consulted before and has seen all the papers; bids Smith remember that two sufficient witnesses to prove possession, Hans Bowman and Jacob Friend, are still living.
A.Df.S. 1 p. 34.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: To Robert Smith Esqr. 5 June 1794.
1794 June 5
Last will and testament of Otho Holland WILLIAMS.
[969]
Appoints his wife, his brother Elie, Mr. William Smith, and Dr. Philip Thomas, as his executors; no appraisement or inventory unless it be expedient; bequeathes to his brother Elie a tract of land in Washington County called the garden of Eden, and describes its limits; discharges Elie from what he owes him on their private account; for what Elie has received for him or borrowed from him, he [Elie] will account according to the principles of good will always existing between them; discharges his brothers-in-law, John Minor and Amos Davis, from what they owe him, and leaves his sisters, Cassander Minor and Teresa Davis a hundred dollars; asks his brother Elie to undertake the guardianship of their orphan nephew, Joseph Israel, and to have the boy educated according to the custom of the County at my Expence, and put to some business suitable to his capacity; leaves Israel a hundred dollars when he is twenty-one; assigns to his brother Elie all his commissions for settling the estate of John Stull, and asks Elie to continue as administrator and to take on himself the care and protection of the representatives of our ever dear Sister Mercy; to Thomas he leaves his old horse Liberty and a dray yearling colt from Ceresville farm; commends his family to the protection of his
father-in-law, William Smith, as soon as... [he is] remove[d] from that endearing office; leaves to his wife and children, William Elie, Edward Green[e], Henry Lee and Otho Holland, all the remainder to be divided equally; children to inherit at the age of twenty-one, and his wife to enjoy the whole meantime; leaves his wife absolutely all his household furniture and female servants, a carriage and pair, a new chariot and harness, and a gold watch already ordered from London; bids her dispose of his clothing, etc., and give to his brother Elie his side arm pistols and gold watch; urges on his wife the importance of educating his children.
Copy in hand of and signed by William Buchanan, Register of Wills for Baltimore County. Witnessed by James Wilson, Thomas Higinbothom and John Hollins. Copy dated May 14, 1799.
5 pp. 34 cm. × 21 cm.
1794 June 6
John LYNCH, Phil[adelphi]a. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[970]
Feels great pleasure in hearing that Williams is on the mend again; wished often last winter that Williams had been with them in Georgia, the finest winter country in the world; his [Lynch's] son Edward also owes much to Williams, his father's friend; thanks him for introducing him to his friends in Georgia; Congress is up this day.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 23 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Major John Lynch June 6 1794.
1794 June 8
J. HALL, Philad[elphia]. To O[tho] H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[971]
Has paid to Williams' brother the money for Richard; has been expecting, vainly, to get down to Baltimore and pay it himself; Williams will please deliver the servant to his [Hall's] Friend Mr. Swann near Starcks Tavern, with directions to forward him immediately to me.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 23 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed: J. Hall 8 June 1794.
1794 June 12
C[hristopher] RICHMOND, Annapolis. To Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[972]
Finds upon enquiry that Mr. [Randolph Brandt] Latimer can furnish as much black and continental state money as Williams wants, but that he insists on shilling for shilling principal and interest; supposes therefore that Williams will do as well to pay the money as to take the trouble to get the paper money; the council will probably finish the militia appointments today; will send his baggage on the first packet leaving Annapolis, and will follow it in the stage.
A.L.S. 1 p. 22.5 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed: C. Richmond June 12 1794.
[Before July 1794]
[William] JACKSON. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[973]
Asserts that Williams' misfortune is really his happiness, and that the defection, having been deliberate, is therefore unworthy his [Williams'] regret; the pride of one woman and the levity of another should not wean a soul like Williams' from society; Williams deserves much better than he got.
A.L. 4 pp. 23 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Fragment from Jackson Friendly and unimportant Letters.
Entries 973 to 982, though undated, must have been written before the death of Otho Holland Williams in July 1794 - Editor's note.
[Before July 1794]
Committee of the Maryland General Assembly.
[974]
The Committee to whom was referred the Petition of Otho H[olland] Williams report that they have enquired into the facts therein stated and find them to be True. Nevertheless they are of opinion the prayer thereof ought not to be granted. By order C. Waymann.
D.S. 1 p. 17.5 cm. × 24 cm.
Endorsed: Report on the Petition of Otho H. Williams.
[Before July 1794]
Inhabitants of Washington County. To the Delegates of Washington County [in the House of Delegates].
[975]
Instructions against the proposed issue of paper money, and against the pending bill for the relief of debtors; conduct of the Senate approved; letters in the papers deplored as tending to create fear of an attempt on the government.
Df. with insertions and corrections in the hand of Otho Holland Williams. 3 pp. 33.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Washington County Instructions to the Delegates in Assembly against paper money.
[Before July 1794]
----------. To [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS.
[976]
Mem[orandu]m for Genl. Williams to Settle with Messrs Hollingsworth and Loney for... flour and to sell the overplus of flour in their hands; Williams drew two orders on them for cash, and ordered them to pay cash to a number of waggoners.
1 p. 14 cm. × 20.5 cm.
[Before July 1794]
Justices of the Court of Oyer and Terminer and Gaol delivery for Baltimore County. To the General Assembly of Maryland [Annapolis].
[977]
respectfully represent That the existing laws on masters and their servants and slaves are ambiguous or insufficient; court of oyer and terminer has not the duty of soliciting jurisdiction in any classes of cases, but they [the court] are the administrators of public justice; there is no present provision for the care of lunatics or their
children or the children of vagrants, all of which cases are common and grievous.
In hand of and signed by Williams. 2 pp. 34 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: To the Genl Assembly of Maryland representation of the Court of Oyer andc. Balt. County.
[Before July 1794]
Otho Holland WILLIAMS.
[978]
Notes -- say fragments from P[ee] D[ee] to Dan and [Fort] 96 Page 183. Br. Gl. [Francis] Marion not only returned into So[uth] Carolina and supported his followers, but annoyed... the enemy... [page] 184 Many of the fugitives from... Sumter joined Major Davie... 187 B. Gl. [Jethro] Summer with... [some] North Carolina mil[iti]a had taken post at the old trading ford on Yadkin River [N.C.]...; [Gen. William] Smallwood with some North Carolina militia advanced to Charlotte [N.C.] and to New Providence [N.C.]; [Gen. Daniel] Morgan with a detachment of the 3d Regiment of Light Dragoons under Lt. Col. [William Augustine] Washington, and with some Maryland and Delaware troops under Lt. Col. [John Eager] Howard went to the aid of Mecklenburgh [N.C.]; p. 231... On the 23d May the main body of his [Nathanael Greene's] army encamped... within half a mile of [Fort] 96;... Coll. [Thaddeus] Kosciuszko... superintended the operations; besieged deserve high applause.
A.D. 2 pp. 34 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Notes and remarks on the History of the War in S. Carolina andc., andc.
[Before July 1794]
[Thaddeus KOSCIUSZKO].
[979]
The Siedge of [Fort] Ninety Six will afford the Exemple what Fortitude... can perform; the Besiedged for their Vigilence... can claim with justice the high applause; the besiegers deserve even more credit, for they had more dangers and hardships; May 23, 1781 the American army took up the siege of [Fort] Ninety Six; the Americans, being unacquainted with the art of besieging, had difficulty in carrying out Kosciuszko's plans, but they were extraordinarily brave.
A.D., much corrected. 5 pp. 20 cm. × 16.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: Notes by my friend Colo. Kosciuszko relative to siege of 96.
[Before July 1794]
Mr. WILLSON. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS.
[980]
Mr. Willson presents his compliments to Genl. Williams is informed Genl Williams intends to go to Frederick shortly and begs the favour of him to take charge of a letter for Colo. [Thomas] Price. Tuesday morning.
1 p. 8.5 cm. × 21.5 cm.
[Before July 1794]
Nath[aniel] RAMSEY. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[981]
If Williams will keep in Baltimore [UNK]300 in specie (gold, if possible) for Messrs. [Charles] Wallace, Davidson, Hollyday and [Nathaniel] Ramsey for the use of the canal, a similar sum will be paid for him here which will perhaps disappoint the robbers; Ramsey's house has been twice broke within one week and several things stolen; Ramsey has Black and State Money any quantity, could a small sum be disposed of?
A.L.S. 1 p. 20.5 cm. × 16.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: From Coll. Ramsey Friday morning [UNK]300.
[Before July 1794]
Cover of letter (undated) from Henry KNOX to General Otho H. WILLIAMS, Baltimore. Seal, oval, 2.5 cm. × 3 cm., red wax.
[982]
1 p. 33 cm. × 20.5 cm.
1794 Oct. 12
Mary [Smith, Mrs. O. H.] WILLIAMS. To --------- [?].
[983]
He will excuse her for not answering his letter, for, the day after she received it, her father [William Smith] hurried them out of town on account of the [yellow] fever; she cannot now accept his obliging invitation; the children are getting better, but only very slowly, especially little Otho; has done more than she thought she could do, for the sake of her father and her children.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 23.5 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed [by Dr. Philip Thomas?]: From Mrs. Williams Octo 12, 1794.
1795 June 5
Robert GORSUCH, late sheriff of Baltimore County. To Otho Holland WILLIAMS, Deceased.
[984]
Bill against the estate of Otho Holland Williams for taxes overdue for 1792 and 1793, sworn before John Moale, a justice of the peace for Baltimore County.
1 p. 34 cm. × 34 cm.
1797 Oct. 3
Dr. P[hilip] THOMAS. To The Misses T[homa]s, Mt. P[hillip], Fred'k County.
[985]
Henny is to take the Boluss this morning wrapped in apple or anything else. If her throat is not better in the evening apply the Blister on it after rubbing the part with warm vinegar. A trip of 12 miles and then round home by Capt. Campbells today. What a coquettish life do I run! And that you know my girls is so fascinating `tis hard to be withstood.
A.L.S. 1 p. 22 cm. × 8 cm.
1798 May 19
James McHENRY, Secretary of War. To Lieut. Campbell SMITH, Judge Advocate pro tem:
[986]
Summons to Smith to assemble with Major Thomas H. Cushing, Capt. Donald Grant Mitchell, Capt. Staats Morris,
Lieuts. John McClallen, Nehemiah Freeman, Henry Muhlenberg, William Willson, Horatio Dayton, John Saunders, Charles Hyde and Philip Rodrigue, and Ensigns William R. Boote and George W. Stahl, as members of a General Court Martial to try Samuel Parmele, Ensign in the 3d rogiment of foot on charges of defrauding the United States in connection with the enlisting and discharging of soldiers; Court to assemble in Philadelphia on May 28, 1798.
D.S. 2 pp. 32.5 cm. × 20 cm.
1808 Dec. 14
W[illiam] SMITH, Baltimore. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Washington [D.C.].
[987]
Congratulates [his grandson] William Elie Williams on his arrival [at his majority?]; although William's letter is without date, Smith concludes, on referring to the family Bible, that it was written on December 10; encloses $50 in care of William's Aunt [Mrs. Robert] S[mith], and will soon send him an accounting of the estate of his father [Otho Holland Williams]; by the will of Williams, Elie Williams was to manage the property in Williamsport, Dr. [Philip] Thomas the property in Frederick, and he [Smith] the Baltimore property; Smith has cleared off all the debt that, at O. H. Williams' death, almost covered the estate, and has built two houses and a set of livery stables in Baltimore; he has also invested a considerable amount in stock of the Baltimore Bank, the Union Bank, the Maryland Bank, the water company and the road company; William may claim his part whenever he likes, but if he is not going into business, he may as well let it stay where it is; knows of but one claim against the estate; the executors of R[obert] Purviance say he paid O. H. Williams 35 or $36,000, but they have produced no vouchers; does not know what William plans to do, but stands ready to assist him; hopes he will apply himself to his studies and improve his talents to be respectable in society.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: My father A. Dec. 18th 1808. F[?] Washington.
Enclosure missing.
1808 Dec. 20
W[illiam] SMITH, Baltimore. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Washington [D.C.].
[988]
Sends the promised account of the personal estate of Otho Holland Williams; the debts due from the estate were numerous and heavy; all the stock that the estate now owns is valuable and profitable, except the Canal stock, and that he could not get rid of, save at much loss; hopes William will not sell the stock and squander his share, for he cannot need much while he remains at his studios; advises him to consider getting married; he might marry Molly [Mary Buchanan Smith], Gen. [Samuel] S[mith]'s daughter; she is said to be amiable; he will give $100,000, which would be a comfortable thing with a good wife; when he [William Smith] dies, he will leave William
his proportion of his estate, provided he still has of him the favorable opinion he now entertains; William wants nothing but application; Aunt [Jennie Smith, Mrs. Josias Carvel] Hall is not well.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: My father A[nswered] f[rom] W[ashington] 22nd. Dec. 1808.
Enclosure missing.
1809 Jan. 1
W[illiam] SMITH, Balt[im]o[re]. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Washington [D.C.].
[989]
Found William's letters when he got back last night from a week's stay in Harford [County]; will be glad to see Elie Williams here; will take up the matter William wants to know about; does not think war is as imminent as William does; our trade might lead to a maritime war, but a land war is improbable or impossible; your Aunt Hall is worse.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: My father. a[nswered] f[rom] W[ashington] 4 Jan 1808 [sic].
1809 May 29
W[illiam] SMITH, Baltimore. To Capt. William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Near New Orleans [La.].
[990]
Acknowledges several letters from William; thinks William's prospect of recovering the debt due him [Smith] from Mr. Burling is not very flattering; will not Mr. Burling at least comply with the offer made by him to Mr. Thomas, of conveying to Smith 2,000 acres of land, and a negro man; in time, [that] might be better than nothing; if this fails, let him [William] consult his general, who might be able to influence Mr. Burling; paid $216 worth of debts for William notwithstanding you assured me you had left no debts behind unpaid; has seen some of the good and bad things said about William's general; presumes William agrees that there will be no war with either of the great belligerents; a motion has been made in Congress to disband the whole of the army, but Smith does not think it will pass at this session; your Aunt Hall is restored to health, except the use of her right hand; Otho at Frederick says he is improving in his education and he has improved in his writing; Ed[ward], who is writing to William, will give him all the domestic news; if William sends any letters by post, let him send them under cover directed to R. Smith Socy of Stato.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 24 cm. × 20 cm.
1809 June 20
W[illiam] SMITH, Baltimore. To Capt. William Elie WILLIAMS, Headquarters near New Orleans [La.].
[991]
Brig Adherbal did not sail as soon as Smith excepted, so he sends another letter by it; Aunt Hall is still unable to use her right hand; Congress will probably adjourn in a day or two; a resolution to stop recruiting passed, and there is little doubt that our differences with Great Britain
will be adjusted amicably; sorry William is still at New Orleans [La.], for the climate there is bad, and there is too much inducement to intemperance and dissipation; sends his compliments to William's general [James Wilkinson].
A.L.S. 1 p. 24 cm. × 20.5 cm.
1809 Oct. 13
W[illiam] SMITH, Baltimore. To John S[tull] WILLIAMS.
[992]
Pay to Capt. William E. Williams Fifty Dollars, which place to acco[un]t of... W. Smith.
A.D.S. 1 p. 8 cm. × 17.5 cm.
Enclosed with entry 993.
1809 Oct. 13
William SMITH, Baltimore. To Capt. William E[lie] WILLIAMS, 5th Regt. U. S. Natchez [Miss.].
[993]
Received two letters from William, one without date; sorry the army has had so much difficulty; Secretary of War [William Eustis], who has been out of Washington [D.C.] for some time, is to pass through Baltimore tomorrow and he [Smith] will tell him all he knows, for he has no doubt the Secretary will give general satisfaction; Mr. [Francis James] Jackson [the British minister] has the largest out fit, ever given by... [Great Britain] to a minister,... he will at least Bribe by his elegant dinners; Mr. [David Montagu] Erskine and his family left Baltimore two days ago, to go home in the frigate Africanus; gives William the latest European news received in the United States; sorry the bacon and hams did not reach William before he moved up the river; William must touch Mr. Burling's honor... take any thing you can get; William's friends here will be glad to see him if he should make a visit this winter; encloses a draft on William's friend, John S. Williams, for $50; Aunt Hall may recover the use of her right hand; your Uncle Elie Williams has been here about four or five weeks past,... in bad health, low spirits and desponding; hot election has just closed here in Maryland; all the senate and a majority of 10 or 12 in the House are republicans.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 28 cm. × 20.5 cm.
For enclosure see entry 992.
[1810?] Mar.
---------- HASELL, Charleston [S.C.]. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[994]
Congratulates Williams on his return to his native land; Williams was fortunate in being removed from the Orleans [La.] station; Hasell supposes Williams will now be sent to Europe in the capacity he suggested; Fenwick has reached London [Eng.]; he [Hasell] was married on the 21st of February; hears that the General [?] has been ordered to Washington [D.C.], and hopes he will be able to clear away the charges against him; Gen. [Wade] Hampton will resign if there is not a war; hears that poor [John] Saunders cannot live much longer.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Hazell.
1810 Sep. 28
[Capt. John] JOHNSON, Ell----- Island H of -----. To William Elie WILLIAMS, 5th Infty Baltimore.
[995]
Just received a letter from Williams with real pleasure since he supposed Williams had forgotten him; will send the hat Williams wants, and since he did not say what kind of hat he wanted, will send a satin one since that is the most fashionable; wishes Williams would pay him a visit; would give him as many lobsters as you could eat for a week, a good glass of wine and a hearty welcome; excuses his own vanity, but in three weeks he will have his company of 88 men in better order and better discipline than any other in the infantry.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 24.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: Johnson.
1810 Oct. 3
Elie WILLIAMS, Hagers Town. To W[illia]m E[lie] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[996]
Glad his nephew is turning to heards and agriculture; the Morino [merino] speculation is probably good although the war in Spain may throw too many of them into this country; hopes they will send a good proportion of ewes; when William is fixed on his farm, he will probably have a hobby and merinos would be as good as any; does not know yet whether the Chancellor has acted on William's petition for the appointment of a Commissioner to help the executor value his [William's] property, and should be glad to know as soon as it is settled.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 26 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: Elie Williams Esqr. Oct. 18th.
1810 Dec. 14
Elie WILLIAMS, Hagers Town. To W[illia]m Elie WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[997]
Saw Dr. [Philip] Thomas on his way up from Baltimore, and gave him the papers about William's letter; they decided to apply to the surveyor in a few days and to call William and his brother, Edward, when the man was ready to run the lines of the Ceresville and other Monocacy [Frederick County] lands; commissioners can judge the value of the land without attending the survey; as soon as William gets done at Frederick, the business at Baltimore will be ready.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: Elie Williams.
1811 Feb. 19
[William Elie WILLIAMS] Baltimore. To the Secretary of War [William EUSTIS].
[998]
Has heard from the superintendent of military stores that the men he is now recruiting are to be in another regiment than the one to which he [Williams] is attached; if this is true, he begs an opportunity to resign the commission he holds, since my ambition as a soldier will not admit of my being made a recruiting officer for another Regt.; wrote to the Secretary a few days ago to ask that the only
subaltern now with him should not be ordered elsewhere.
A.Df. 3 pp. 24 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Private to Sec. of War.
1811 July 14
Elie WILLIAMS, George Town [D.C.]. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[999]
Agrees that the personal property at Ceresville [Frederick County] should be appraised at once, since William cannot take possession till that is done; can perhaps be done in the next week, since two of the neighboring farmers could do it, and Capt. [William?] Campbell, Sebastian Graff, Edward Owens and William Potts all live nearby; as soon as the valuation is made, William can start to use what he wants of the property as his own on the farm; has suggested to your Grandfather [William Smith] the propriety of your going up soon.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 26 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: Elie Willi[ams].
1811 Dec. 15
Henry R. WARFIELD, Bushy Park. To William [Elie] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[1000]
Came up here from Pipe Creek a few days ago and sent for Hartsoock, the stone mason he had mentioned; told Hartsoock that Williams wanted a master mason to build him a house on his farm; Hartsoock says he will undertake it and will start as early in the spring as Williams likes; vouches for Hartsoock as sober industrious attentive... compleatly understands the business; the family is sorry Williams and Mr. [William] Cooke [Sr.] did not stop past on their way to Baltimore; wishes Williams all the good things of this world that a rational being ought to possess.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: H. Warfield relat to Hartshook mason.
1812 June 20
J[oseph] OWENS, Fort Norfolk, Va. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[1001]
Has just received Williams' letter enclosing a bill for his cap which Williams had paid; received last April a similar bill for the trimmings for his cap; still has not the money to remit, but will send it soon - $34.25; much war talk recently; Yesterday their was handbills at every corner in the town announcing the declaration -- in Senate 19 to 13 -- I can't believe it... inform me whether I can procure a handsome Sabrae [sabre] in Baltimore.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Lt. Owens Acknowledge $34.25.
1812 Aug. 4
Henry LEE, Jr. [son of Light Horse Harry], Stratford [Va.]. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[1002]
Received Williams' letter enclosing one from his father, whose fate at the hands of a Baltimore mob he does not yet know; heard some reports yesterday in Fredericksburg [Va.]; will send the portrait of Williams' father, and begs him to
save his [Lee's] father's life, or send him news about his father.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 23.5 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed: H. Lee Junr. Enclosing letter to his father.
For enclosure see entry 1003.
See Scharf, Chronicles of Baltimore, pp. 311-339, especially p. 338, for an account of the attack of the mob on Lee and his associates - Editor's note.
[1812 Aug. 4]
[Henry LEE, Jr., son of Light Horse Harry]. To Gen. Henry [Light Horse Harry] LEE.
[1003]
If his father is living, begs him to receive this as a token of his affection; does not know whether or not his father is alive.
A.L. 1 p. 12 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Superscribed: For Genl. H. Lee.
Enclosed with entry 1002.
[1812] Oct. 12
H[enry] LEE, Jr. [son of Light Horse Harry]. Alexandria [Va.]. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[1004]
Has been home only two days since the epoch of the mob; will send Williams' father's portrait by the first vessel; sends his love to Miss [Nancy?] Spear and Madam [Betsy Patterson] Bonaparte.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: from H. Lee Junr.
1814 Jan. 15
W[illiam] CAMPBELL, Fred[erick] Town. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[1005]
Sorry to hear that Williams' grandfather is not well, but supposes it is not serious, since Williams expects to be in [Frederick] in a few days; [Sebastian] Graff called on Ross to draw his deed the day Williams left, but Ross was setting out for Pennsylvania and refused to undertake it; Graff then put his papers into the hands of Lawrence Brengle who probably did it all right; remains now only to acknowledge and execute the deed, and this will have to be done at Graff's home since his wife is not well; Graff says Brengle says Williams' tract contains 119 acres.
A.L.S. 1 p. 26 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Wm. Campbell.
1814 Jan. 18
Sebastian GRAFF, Fred[eric]k County. To Captn. William CAMPBELL, Fred[eric]k County, Md.
[1006]
Encloses a promised deed to Capt. William E. Williams for the water right and the land Williams purchases absolutely, being part of the land where he [Graff] lives, also about a hundred acres of his woodland, known as Final; encloses also articles of agreement about the remainder of his land, which Mr. Brooke drew, since Mr. Ross was leaving for Pennsylvania; Captain Williams will sign the articles
and give Campbell the negotiable notes for the purchase money for the land which will entitle him to the deed.
A.L.S. 1 p. 26 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed by Williams: S. Graff to Wm. Campbell concerning my purchase of S.G.
Enclosures missing.
1814 Feb. 16
Christopher HUGHES Jr., New York. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[1007]
Assures Williams of his unalterable friendship and would have wanted to shake hands with him, though the pleasure would have been mixed with pain... from my affection for you.
A.L.S. 1 p. 23 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed: C. Hughes Junr. 16th Feb. 1814.
1814 Feb. 24
William HILL, Upper Marlborough. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[1008]
Will be very glad to attend to the request Williams made of him in a recent letter; saw Richard Hall yesterday and he has no idea of disposing of his blacksmith; knows a man in Charles County who has three; will write to the owner of them and then to Williams, or Williams can come down and they will ride together to see the owner; if Williams wants to buy some boys, Mrs. West has some to dispose of; that family of negroes [Mrs. West's] generally are very smart; he [Hill] has lost one of his carriage horses and asks Williams to assist him in finding another pair, gentle, sound and young; would pay $400 for a good pair after a trial; Mrs. Hill remembered and wants to show Williams her prodigy of a boy.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 34.5 cm. × 21 cm.
1814 Apr. 22
George COOKE, Baltimore. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Frederick Town.
[1009]
Wrote to Mr. [Benjamin] Ogle as soon as he got Williams' letter, but has had no response; his [Cooke's] mother has received no account of Miss Murdock; bad weather has prevented Mrs. Cooke from seeing Mrs. Carroll about a woman she recommended, but she has written to Susan [Williams' wife] about her; private letters indicate that Bonaparte has not given the Allies as serious a check as the newspapers say; saw Henry [Lee Williams] this morning and he is well; sends love to Susan and Eliza [Williams' daughter]; they have not heard lately from Sophia [Cooke], but when they did hear, her face was of all colours. She must look beautiful.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: G. Cooke 22 April 14.
1814 June 20
J[ohn] S[tull] WILLIAMS, George Town [D.C.]. To W[illia]m E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceres Ville, near Frederick Town.
[1010]
Has had no communication with William for a long time; writes now to ask a service; last winter we made some heavy purchases, in expectation of realizing handsome profit on them in a few months, we have however from the infernal shuffling and uncertainty of our present administration not only been shuffled out of that expectation but have still the property on hand and no sale... the whole of our banks refused to discount paper at all during the present gloomy times.... We have 6 or $7,000 more to meet in the course of next month,... but... we shall not have... funds; can William loan them $4,000 till September 1, with interest; application is painful, altho made to a friend and relation; Yesterday at 4 A.M. a portion of our volunteers were ordered to March for Nottingham to assist in the defence of that place against the enemy... ascending the Patuxent... they [the British] have quietly taken off all the Tob[acc]o at Benedict and... will attempt the same at L[ower] Marlboro and Nottingham. George Peters artillery company of 100 men and Stulls Riflemen and the squadron of Cavalry composed this detachm[en]t; hopes to see William and his wife the first visit they make to Hagers Town; Sarah I expect will be in statu quo in Septr when I hope to have my ears regaled occasionally by a few squalls.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 26 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: J. S. Williams June 20th 1814 G. Town D.C.
1814 June 28
E[dward] G[reene] WILLIAMS, Springfield [Washington County]. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Frederick.
[1011]
Has been so busy at home the last two weeks that it would be very inconvenient to come to his brother's to sign the shares he [William] wrote to him about; could not William send them to him; his [Edward's] manager and two hands are ill; Uncle Elie Williams will probably be with you before you receive this as he and Kitty are expected here very soon, he promised to stop at Ceres Ville [Frederick County]; William was right in thinking it had been Elie Williams who advised Edward not to go to Kentucky now, and it was well they did not go, for they should have been roasted alive; uneasy that his sheep give his brother any trouble, for he cannot possibly send for them now; too bad Susan lost her horse; sends compliments to George [Cooke] and his bride [Eleanor Addison Dall] and to Susan [Mrs. Williams] and the child [Eliza].
A.L.S. 2 pp. 26 cm. × 21.5 cm.
Endorsed: E. G. Williams.
1814 July 13
H[enry] L[ee] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To W[illia]m E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceres Ville, near Frederick.
[1012]
Has had several letters from [his brother] William; is now inclosing a Check the receipt of which please to acknowledge; hard at this time to get any cash; Yesterday was the day for Public Sale; no bid for Spesutia and nothing sold except three valuable wood lots on which they must give credit; a few acres of the land above Columbia Mill was sold privately; the executors cannot attend to the [Spesutia?] Island, and Uncle [Robert] Smith proposes to divide the property still unsold; wants information in order to get the necessary stamps, for which he will apply to Mr. [William] Cooke; if he gives it, Henry will enclose them; the British passed up the Bay last Saturday, and a lookout party was sent to North Point [Baltimore County] of which I was one and saw a s[c]hooner near Spesutia a Frigate above Pools Island and a schooner below. 150 men since landed on Spesutia and have again gone down the Bay; Our folks with the Shoulder Knots have a very clever Set and turn out every day; will be with William next week.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: H. L. Williams.
Enclosure missing.
1814 July 17
W[illiam] COOKE, Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Frederick Town.
[1013]
The instructions for the millwright are all ready and he [Cooke] left word with [John] Davis to forward them at once; the mill has been expensive and Cooke hopes it will hereafter pay a good return on the money Williams has put into it; will attend to the bank debt if Henry [Williams' brother] should go east, but does not expect he will; Williams' aunt has given up the idea of going travelling on account of the risk of leaving so much property unprotected if the British come raiding, and Cooke agrees with her; uncertain when they can come to Frederick; if Williams makes half a crop, he will be doing as well as the average; [Benjamin] Ogle had one field he did not reap, Genl. [Charles] Ridgely, who expected to make 10,000 bushels, makes nothing or next to nothing; the E[astern] Shore won't make ¼ of a crop; if the Bank calls for any money, he [Cooke] can arrange to discount either or both the notes; love to Susan and Eliza.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 24.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: W. C. Esqr.
1814 July 25
John DAVIS, Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceres Ville [Frederick County].
[1014]
Is sending by Mr. [William] Cooke [Sr.] a sketch of a forebay and a bill of scantling for it; presumes that McBride, the millwright, will understand; this work will need so much scantling that it would be a good thing if Williams could get his own sawmill at work; the large stuff can be hewed and if Williams could get some locust that would square 6 or 8 inches,
it would make excellent frames; Isaac McPherson's workmen will have Williams' millstones done in three weeks and now they look like a good article; hopes the worst is over now, so that the masons will get the building up soon; saw mill crank has been sent on by Potts.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: J. Davis mill.
1814 Aug. 11
Henry R. WARFIELD, Pipe Creek. To W[illiam] E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville, Monococy.
[1015]
If you have a pair of small pockett pistols I will thank you for the use of them for a short time... also a little powder and ball. The pistols you gave me are not here. You will please to send them by bearer. Louise and Bet[s]y Waters are well, and send compliments to Mrs. Williams.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: H. Warfield 11th August 1814.
1814 Aug. 22
W[illiam] COOKE [Baltimore]. To W[illia]m E[lie] WILLIAMS, Fred[eric]k Town.
[1016]
Presumes Williams has heard the full extent of the alarm in this place; General [Levin] Winder ordered the 5th Regiment to go at once to Washington [D.C.] and they left yesterday morning; this leaves the city weak and everyone is very gloomy; his son W[illia]m returned from Y[ellow?] Springs much relieved, tho also much weakened by the waters; as he commands the largest and perhaps the best company in the Regiment, he could not avoid, nor did he wish to avoid the responsibility of his situation; thanks Williams for his offer as an asylum, but they will stand their ground; Susan [Williams] and Sophia [Cooke] must remain in Frederick; rumor that on Saturday the British landed 5,000 at Benedict and as many on the Potomac; Williams' brother, Henry, will probably soon have to come back for militia duty; the militia are out from 4 to 8 in the morning, and from 4 to 7 in the evening; they complain of it, but martial law puts down all murmurs; has talked with [John] Davis and another man about Williams' chimneys, and they both say the only remedy is to raise them at a cost of $30; glad to hear that the rumor of an insurrection in Frederick is baseless; We have just heard the 5 Regiment is ordered to Piscataway 15 miles below Washington [D.C.] on the Potomac. This is a most cruel thing! and wholly deprives them of any chance to defend their own city and families, and one half of them will be kill'd by the fatigue.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 24.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: W. Cooke.
1814 Oct. 3
Ja[mes] WILKINSON, Montpelier. To W[illiam] E[lie] WILLIAMS, Fr[ederick].
[1017]
Has asked the President for either a trial or a restoration to his command; is going to cross the mountains in a few days and if the Seat of Government be continued at Washington [D.C.], will keep his family in Frederick for the winter; asks Williams to find him a place to stay, and wants place for his family, three servants, four horses, etc.; is going into the mountains for venison; will get to Hagerstown between the 15th and the 20th.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: J. Wilkinson.
1814 Oct. 4
R[ichar]d TILGHMAN, Hermitage [Queen Anne's County]. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceres Ville, near Frederick Town.
[1018]
Is getting rid of some of his negroes because he has too many, and offers Williams two negro boys aged about 20 years, both stout, active and handsome fellows; parts with them for no fault and therefore wishes to get them good masters; has also two or three from 12 to 14 years old; the first are $400, the others $250; asks Williams to write soon; his [Tilghman's] father will send the letter over by Griffin's packet; love to Susan and the little one [Eliza].
A.L.S. 1 p. 25 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: Rd. Tilghman.
Richard Cooke, son of William Cooke, Sr., changed his name to Tilghman in compliance with the will of his uncle, Richard Tilghman - Editor's note.
1814 Oct. 10
W[illiam] COOKE, Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Fred[eric]k Town.
[1019]
Would have sent letters by Williams' brother had they known of his departure; sorry the Executors could not relieve Williams of all debts, for hard times are surely coming; Mr. [Robert Goodloe] Harper has had a letter from Mr. [James Ashton] Byard [Bayard], saying that the United States might have made an advantageous peace when the general peace was being made but that now the demands of the British cannot be acceded to without disgrace and ruin; Lord [Rowland] Hill probably sailed about September 1; Giles has proclaimed [John] Marshall for next President and says [James] Munroe [Monroe] has neither talents nor any other qualification; if Williams' brother Henry is still with him, Sophia [Cooke] will do as she pleases as to coming with him, but I think she had better remain 'til Susan [Cooke Williams] comes or until it is ascertained that the British have gone somewhere else; urges Williams to get my 200 Dollars from Shaw if you can.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 24.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: W. Cooke Esqr.
1814 Oct. 11
George ARMISTEAD, Baltimoro. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Frederick Town.
[1020]
George Hughes says Williams promised him [Armistead] a pointer puppy, which he would like to have soon; has been very unwell since his hard duty at Fort McHenry; cannot get up to see Williams; goes to Morrow to Gottysburg [Pa.] to bring his wife and children home; has not seem them for nearly two months; asks Williams to have the dog left at Mr. Moore's; sends his compliments to Mrs. Williams and to Miss [Sophia] Cooke.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Col. Geo. Armistead.
1815 Feb. 23
Elie WILLIAMS, George Town [D.C.]. To W[illia]m E[lie] WILLIAMS, near Frederick Town.
[1021]
Has been intending to write to William and his brother Edward, proposing that they either interest themselves in a concern or help him [Elie] to get an interest in it; he [Elie] has been in a manufacturing concern with Charles and Daniel Carroll; it included a paper mill and a large distillery; the paper mill has been productive, but the distillery unprofitable, because of faulty planning of the factory; got Colonel Anderson, a professional from Philadelphia, and under his direction, changes were made; now the yield is good, and the partners are going to sell the distillery; Charles Carroll is going to take his family this summer to Genessee [State?]; he [Elie] has entered the partnership in the place of Charles Carroll, and the property has been offered for sale; meantime Charles Carroll has been up to Baltimore and borrowed $40,000 from his relative, Charles Carroll of Carrollton, and if he [Elie] cannot get some money, the property may be sold to Charles Carroll at his own price; he [Elie] thinks either property is worth $40,000 but a little prefers the distillery; asks William whether he and his brother Edward would invest; no money will be needed as I can with satisfactory endorsers have an accomodation on the old loan... from the Banks.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 26 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: Elie Williams 23d Feby. 1815.
1815 Mar. 11
John TAYLOE, Rosegill [Va.]. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, at Mr. Cookes, Baltimore.
[1022]
Had to come here in connection with his sister's estate; when he left Mt. Airy [Va.], he intended his horse Chance to stand at Washington [D.C.]; Chance is the best-bred horse in America and next in figure and size to Eagle, who stands at $50 a mare; now wishes Williams to find a stand for Chance near Frederick or to take him to his own farm; Chance must stand at $30; sends his compliments to my good friend Susan and her Father's family.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed: John Tayloe Esqr. Horse Chance.
1815 June 19
C[hristopher] H[UGHES], Jr., Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville, near Fred[eric]k Town.
[1023]
Cannot allow Henry [Lee Williams] to go up without writing to Williams, is feeling miserable and listless; the town is full of busy men, and of commercial profits; Lyde is always in the country, and so is Charles; the Pattersons are all men of business; Tom Goodwin is here for the purpose of courting Miss Morison of Norfolk [Va.]; Grafton [?] is here and is to be the partner of that prodigy D. A. Smith; Boyce has been up into Jersey buying cattle and horses, and Hughes has a very fine horse from him; no decisive news from Europe; feels no sympathy for the Bourbons, the cause of the Allies is the cause of kings without any consideration of the rights of man; sends love to Mrs. Williams and Eliza.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 24 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed: ______ Hughes.
1815 June 24
W[illiam] COOKE [Sr.], Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Fred[eric]k Town.
[1024]
Turned Williams' letter over to his [Cooke's] son Frank to take care of; Frank advertised for a gardener as Williams asked, but none applied; left all well on the Eastern Shore, whence he had just come, and all in Baltimore are well, too; flour is now 9 dollars from the wagons and superfine much wanted; if that price keeps up, Williams' mill will be profitable; hopes Sophia [Cooke] will bring good news of everyone; Susan's housekeeper cannot get back just yet; if Williams does not send Eliza [his daughter] to Baltimore, they will try to get up to Frederick; Mr. [Benjamin] Ogle and Cooke's daughter Nancy are at Annapolis attending his mother who is expected to die.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: W. Cooke.
1815 July 11
W[illiam] COOKE, Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Frederick Town.
[1025]
Went out looking for Williams' sugar as soon as he got the letter about it, and found a half barrel of brown sugar lying for Williams at Norris', waiting for a conveyance to Frederick; sent this over to Potts' to be sent to Frederick as soon as possible; found that Williams' brother Henry had been trying in vain to get some loaf sugar; I have ordered a dozen loaves to Mr. Potts also; that quantity of loaf sugar must serve `til the fall; glad Susan is better; she must not eat cucumbers and ice at the same time; Sophia [Cooke] is not so well; Judge Nicholson had a violent paralytic stroke on Sunday evening at his place on Elk Ridge and is still dangerously ill; Henry's horse Roderic will probably die; asked Mrs. Morris to forward some Bark; [John] Davis has been ill but is out again; if Henry can get any loaf sugar, he will probably send some too.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: W. Cooke Esqr.
[1815 July 16]
Col. J. H. POWELL [Philadelphia]. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Frederick Town.
[1026]
Williams certainly may command him [Powell]; he [Powell] has just returned to Philadelphia; his father is too weak to travel, save in short stages; if Williams is at his farm when he [Powell] gets to Frederick, he will stop and see Williams' oldest, Bettie while the ladies rest at Mrs. Kimbol's; is going to get off Friday in spite of the delay the coachmaker is causing; they will go a steady 20 miles a day; I suppose... my quondam Wife andc are all in the right way by the bye I have escaped the etcetera as I am sure poor Mrs P--- is not in the way, unless ------ [sic].
A.L.S. 4 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: Colo. Powell Phila.
[1815 July 19]
H[enry] L[ee] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County].
[1027]
Is leaving tomorrow for Boston [Mass.], and for Ballston and Saratoga Springs [N.Y.]; hopes he can accommodate Miss Sophia [Cooke] but has a great deal of baggage; will drive an excellent Philadelphia-built gig, and the sorrels; the bays are not fit for service now; Roderic died at Orange on the 12th of this month; sends John for William's service; he is better than David and no more wages; has not yet been able to get William any loaf sugar; many Baltimoreans going to resorts this summer; [Christopher?] Hughes is going to Bath [Va.] or Bedford [Va.].
A.L.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 20 cm.
1815 July 20
H[enry] L[ee] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceres Ville, near Fred[erick] Town.
[1028]
Got William's letter yesterday after he had sent John off; the enclosed he [Henry] will charge to Otho [his brother]; can't spare any more just now; Sophia [Cooke] is going with them.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: H. Williams.
Enclosure missing.
1815 Sep. 27
W[illiam] COOKE [Sr.]. To W[illia]m E[lie] WILLIAMS, Fred[eric]k Town.
[1029]
Sophia [Cooke] got home all right last night; Henry [Lee Williams] brought back the same [amount of money?] he took from hence, -- and no more; has not heard from his son William [Cooke], for 10 days; overwhelmed with Paint, Whitewash,... andc., but will be ready to receive Williams and his family as soon as they can come; food supplies are hard to get and very costly; engage me, of some of your neighbors, some good butter; supposes Williams' mill is running now, for [John] Davis told him the bolting cloths
were ready to go up, a week ago; wishes Lizzy [Williams' daughter] could be here to help Sally with the housekeeping and to amuse everyone; George [Cooke] leaves next week for his own House.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: W. Cooke the 27th Sept 1815.
1815 Sep. 27
J. H. POWELL, Chesnut St. [Philadelphia]. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Frederick Town.
[1030]
Is just returned from New York; bids Williams write him an account of the sort of gig he wants, the kind of springs, whether Dickey seat, panel body or horizontal springs. As you say so much about painting, I... think you mean a Panel'd body; the work will take six weeks if it is to be well done; wishes very much to get to Maryland, but for ten thousand Reasons, he cannot; is about to go to New York to accompany Miss Livingston, who embarks on Sunday for Bordeaux; asks to be presented to Mrs. Williams.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: Rec'd and forw'd 29 Sept. G[eorge] C[ooke].
1815 Sep. 29
E[dward] G[reene] WILLIAMS, Cave Town. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Ceresville near Frederick.
[1031]
Gratified by his brother's interest in his [Edward's] success in the ensuing trial; is not home, as William can see by the date line; does not like the idea of ridding the County like a Sheriff candidate,... but under the particular circumstances of my coming out, had to do all he could to stir people up and get them to come out to the polls; Tilghman, Hall and General Ringgold are helping him; has been misinformed about Lawrence's intention to attack him and to use the slander New Comer [sic], a trooper in our squadron, started about him [Edward]; contest is to have its issue on Monday, and Edward would bring William the news on Wednesday, if he did not have to go to a meeting of the Factory Corporation to elect directors; sends greeting to Susan and the children.
A.L.S. 1 p. 32.5 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed: E G Williams.
1815 Nov. 10
Francis HOLLINGSWORTH, York, Pa. To W[illia]m E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceres Ville, Frederick Town.
[1032]
Wagon, with gears complete, is ready; encloses the bills, and has drawn on Williams for the amount, at sight, in favour of Thomas Woodyear, Cashier of the York Bank, for $487.60; the wagon and the gears are well built of good materials; there is too much iron in the tire of the wheels, but this is according to the rules of the Lancaster Turnpike for 30 barrel [?] wagons; wagon is expensive, but its usefulness will cause it to pay for itself soon.
A.L.S. 1 p. 26 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: F. Hollingsworth York.
Enclosures missing.
1816 Mar. 6
W[illiam] COOKE, Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Fred[eric]k Town.
[1033]
Flour has now fallen to eight dollars out of the wagons; had Williams' note discounted again, which will carry it to September 8; bank officials want it reduced then, as they are reducing all others; has received from Mr. [Richard] Caton a deed of Williams' from Mr. [Charles] Carroll [of Carrollton], which he [Cooke] will keep till Williams returns; sent Mr. Potts some soapstone backs which a stone cutter brought here for Williams, and Potts will send them up by one of Williams' wagons; glad Williams and [Beale] Stinchcomb are likely to agree; Mr. Carey says Williams may put entire confidence in Stinchcomb; he [Cooke] told someone that Williams' mill was working well, and was told that [John] Davis or the mill wright had failed in Tyson's mill, that with 4 pair of stones, it made only 60 barrels a day; Mr. Joseph Patterson has left a letter here for Williams containing a full account and estimate of the Clever Mill.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 24.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: W Cooke Esqr.
[1816?] Apr. 16
E[dward] G[reene] WILLIAMS, Springfield [Washington County]. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County].
[1034]
your perverse and I fear idle old woman consents to set out for her destination... I have furnished her my cart which will leave her at Mrs. Kimball's and... will send your colt from [Dr. Frisby] Tilghman's.... the cook owes us no obligation for... [her stay] at Springfield....; at least, according to Friend, her late employer, she will keep William's kitchen clean; seasons are untimely and crops all promise to be poor; the nightly frosts will prevent him [Edward] from having the strawberries and cream he promised Susan and the girls when they came visiting; the wheat, however, is good; mine is called the brag field of the county; William's wheat fans will be well executed.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 26 cm. × 20.5 cm.
end vol 9
1816 May 14
W[illiam] COOKE, Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Fred[eric]k Town.
start vol. 10
[1035]
Potts paid back what Cooke had lent him; he [Cooke] was surprised to find the box of china he had lodged with Potts to be sant up to Williams a fortnight ago had not yet gone; flour is now $8.25, and it will go no lower till after the harvest; may go to $9.00; good white wheat sold yesterday at 190 cents, and very little of it in the markets; if Williams can be certain of getting what he grinds to market, he can act with safety on this information; glad Williams' change of manager is proving a good one; Williams is wise to begin on a small scale.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: W. Cooke, Esqr.
1816 May 22
W[illiam] COOKE. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Frederick.
[1036]
Sends Williams a nurse, Sarah Bromwell, a 20-year old widow; the woman's husband's people are respectable, and her sister living at the Point likewise; she has always lived in the country; Mrs. Cooke wishes Jesse [Jessie?] to remain till the children become attached to Sarah; flour nine dollars out of the waggon, but it may fall after the last of August.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: W. Cooke.
1816 June 7
W[illiam] COOKE, Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS.
[1037]
Sorry for Potts, who is honorable; through the Dorseys who blast every thing they touch, Potts lost $5,000 cash; the rumor that he had lost more through Batturs largely destroyed his credit for the present; a draft by Williams in favor of Shaw accepted by Potts came due Monday and Potts did not attend to it till it was too late to get the money, and it was of course protested; Williams as the drawer was served with notice of the protest; Potts has since paid it and gone to Fred[eric]k to straighten out his other affairs; Potts does not owe much, himself, but he may have to meet the notes of Batturs which he endorsed; he [Cooke] lent Potts 1,000 dollars; flour yesterday 9 dollars besides the advance to the waggoner; N.O. [sic] is still here and will try to get all he can; will send something for Liz and Mary [Williams' daughters]; Frank [Cooke] still on the E[astern] Shore; everyone complaining of poor crops.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Wm. Cooke Esqr.
1816 June 13
W[illiam] COOKE [Baltimore]. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Fred[eric]k.
[1038]
Mr. and Mrs. [Benedict?] Calvert are dining with the Cookes; Mrs. Cooke has sent the things Sophia [Cooke] wrote for; [Beale] Stinchcomb has sold 200 barrels of flour at 9½ dollars if paid in Baltimore notes, 9 3/4 if paid in Frederick or Washington notes, a great sale I think; Mr. [Joseph] Patterson came to see the Cookes and said Williams and his family were all well and Williams' land worth 100 dollars an acre; saw Captain Ridgely in the street yesterday; Frank [Cooke] got home this morning, George[Cooke] still at Belair [Prince George's County]; walked down town to get Lizzy [Williams' daughter] some oranges but got none; a boat has arrived at the Point with some and he [Cooke] will send Lizzy some by the first wagon; Her Grand Mother sends some Cake.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Wm. Cooke Esqr.
1816 July 6
H[enry] L[ee] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, near Fred[erick] Town.
[1039]
Accepts William's draft on him for $2,000 when presented; relies on him to meet it when due; got a $20,000 judgement against Spencer in Virginia, and Spencer has paid $6,000 of it and promises a second installment in October; asks William to send Otho [their brother] to Baltimore as soon as he gets back; hopes to come up [to Frederick] with Otho and go on a trip to Emmitsburg with William; Mrs. [William] Cooke and Mrs. [Jonas] Clapham's family with William Ogle and Randal Moale attending made a party to see the gas light at the museum last night; R[obert] Smith wants to know what William will take for his proportion of Spesutia Island, in cash; they have had one enquiry about the Island, but no offers; William Hall may take a portion of it if they cannot do better.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 24.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: H. Lee Williams.
[1816] July 13
Christopher HUGHES, Jr., Balt[imore]. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County].
[1040]
Laura [Hughes' wife] is in good health and there will soon be an heir; I mean it to be an heir,... none of your little gypseys for me; Gen. [Samuel] Smith and his family are going to Bedford [Va.] and John [Spear Smith] will take command at Montebello and Hughes' family will live in town; not that John and Hughes are not on good terms, but he seems to think the house must contain his family alone; he [Hughes] regrets this, for he wanted to go away and leave Laura at Montebello for a week or so; his [Hughes'] health is bad; tells Williams of a good man he can get as a miller, who has 22 years still to serve; the man who owns him is selling only because he is conscientiously scrupulous about holding such property; the owner, Elkanah Cobb of VansVille, is asking $1,000, but would probably take less.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 24.5 cm. × 20 cm.
1816 July 16
Henry L[ee] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Ceres Ville [Frederick County].
[1041]
Cannot come up with Otho this trip as he had hoped; John is bringing William a bay horse, for which Henry gave the mares and old Gig; it has been proposed that they value the Island [Spesutia] at $50,000 and divide it into three parts, each branch of the Smith Family [to which the mother of the Williamses belonged] taking a share; Henry would rather not take any, but Edward may do so; we go there this week and then Henry will visit William and not get back to Baltimore for a month.
A.L.S. 1 p. 24.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: H. L. Williams.
1816 Aug. 1
W[illiam] COOKE. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Fred[eric]k Town.
[1042]
Has not seen or heard of [Beale] Stinchcomb since he got to Baltimore; warns Williams against selling on credit; wheat at 180 [cents a bushel] today and unlikely to fall for 10 days; William's [Cooke, Jr.] son Edward had a bad foot, but it is better and he is back at school; Mr. Jacob Hollingsworth said today that Sophia [Cooke] is coming to his house next Sunday with Frank [Cooke], but Cooke knows Frank has had no such word; reminds Williams that his note in the Bank of Maryland is due early in September and assumes that he cannot reduce it though the Bank expected he would; [Alexander James] Dallas has given notice that he will not receive for taxes the notes of any bank that does not redeem its notes in specie, so the Bank of Maryland must curtail very generally their customers; [Col. J.H.] Powel[l] and his mother and sister called this morning; they are going to Frederick soon and will see Williams.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 22.5 cm. × 18 cm.
Endorsed: W. Cooke.
1816 Aug. 4
E[dward] G[reene] WILLIAMS, Springfield [Washington County]. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Ceres Ville near Frederick.
[1043
Watkins has just told Edward Greene that the mill fans ordered by William Elie and Otho are ready; $100 a piece seems a high price, but he has already had many calls for them; Watkins says William need not take them; Edward would not be without the one he has for twice the price; a good large road wagon will hold both of them, plus some straw and a rope or two to hold them; advises William to send quickly, for the fans crowd Watkins' shop; heard that Henry [their brother] was back in Baltimore; Henry is exceedingly uncommunicative; as far as he understands Henry's scheme for [Spesutia] Island, he thinks little of it; sorry C[hristopher] H[ughes] Jr. will not run for the Assembly; Hughes is secretive about his plans; Miss Warfield divides her time between Edward's and Buchanan's, she is in charming spirits and does not seem at all sensible of the indelicacy of her situation.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 26 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: E.G. Willia[ms].
[1816?] Sep. 18
F[rank] COOKE [Baltimore]. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Frederick Town.
[1044]
Met Henry Lee Williams this morning in the street; Sophia [Cooke], George [Cooke] and myself go to Belle Air [Prince George's County] on Sunday; wishes William were going too; his father somewhat fatigued from the ride from Ceresville [Frederick County], but improved by his stay there; Mr. [Jonas] Clapham comes back from the Eastern Shore today.
A.L.S. 1 p. 22.5 cm. × 18.5 cm.
1816 Sep. 23
W[illiam] COOKE, Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, near Frederick.
[1045]
[Beale] Stinchcomb failed to stop at Cooke's on his way out of town, so Mrs. Cooke did not send what she had for the children; Mrs. West wants to get 18 of Williams' hams and a firkin of lard and says Miss Sprigg wants some for Mr. Thompson; the Cookes and Mr. [Jonas] Clapham want apples from Williams in due season; as soon as it is fair, Frank and George and Sophia [Cooke] are going to Belair for a week; 7 dollars a barrel is being offered now for next year's corn; Richard [Tilghman] sold wheat last week for $2; flour is about the same; expects Williams' family for a visit as soon as he can come; agrees that it is better for Williams to defer his visit to Mr. [Benjamin] Ogle.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 22.5 cm. × 18 cm.
Endorsed: Wm. Cooke.
1816 Sep. 23
William COOKE, Jr., Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceres Ville, near Frederick Town.
[1046]
Will want, the last of this week, the $500 he lent Williams in the spring; Williams may add the $6.50 for powder and shot sent up by Cooke's father, and deduct the amount of Mrs. Cooke's [his wife] doctor's bill and the cost of the stockings that Susan promised to get knit for him [Cooke]; is going next week to Philadelphia and will bring back Graham's instructions about an ice-house; Sophia [Cooke], Mary Atkinson, Frank [Cooke] and George [Cooke] are to go to Bell Air soon, for sport in hunting, shooting, and eating ---- Buck, Bail and ortolan; saw [Col. J.H.] Powell and his mother and sister on their [the Powells'] return; The old lady shortly after reaching Philadelphia died of an apoplexcy; the Ambassador and his wife are returning to Europe in two or three weeks, and have offered their effects for sale; Madame Bonaparte wrote to Mrs. Augusta G-------- [sic] that Mrs. Perin formerly Juliet B------ker [illegible] is more admired than any other foreigner in England; [William] Dawson has not yet set up his threshing machine, and probably will not until he can find a place he likes; threshing machine cost [UNK]45.19, six years ago in England, and is still as good as new; Richard [Tilghman] sold wheat for $2.00 last week.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Wm. Cooke Junr.
1816 Sep. 24
Dr. R. PINDELL, Lexington [Ky.]. To Capt[ain] Edw[ar]d G[reene] WILLIAMS, near Williams Port, Maryland.
[1047]
His health has been much better lately; misses the social convivial parties they used to enjoy in Hagers Town, Fountain Rock and Springfield, Mt. Pelier and Long Meadows; people in Lexington are either more refined or more vitiated; the notes Williams gave Williamson have been destroyed; like Williams, he [Pindell] spent more on lottery
tickets than he would ever do again; Williams' favorite horse is well, but badly crippled; old Ball would look out for the horse if his own children had to suffer; according to the bargain General [Evan] Shelby made in Williams' name, Williams does not owe the old man anything because he did not cure the horse, but he is poor, and a Revolutionary veteran, and it would be a deed of charity to send him a few dollars; had heard of the death of Mrs. Belt and Miss Clagett and the unfortunate accident to Carr's daughter; Carr and his family have ever been Pindell's first favourites with the group of Williams' connections; refuses to toll Williams his troubles which are many and grievous; all his children and grand-children are well except Eliza and Mary Pindell.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Dr. Pindell.
Published in Maryland Historical Magazine, XVIII: 312-314, December 1923.
1816 Sep. 27
E[dward] G[reene] WILLIAMS, Springfield [Washington County]. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Ceres Ville, near Frederick.
[1048]
Believes his brother had better not depend on getting the relative of his [Edward's] overseer, for Ceresville; Compton will probably not be willing to come either; when Ricketts insists he needs a change and leaves Edward, he will recommend Ceresville to him, but he would be sorry to have Ricketts leave him now; Ricketts is training up a promising young man to take his place; the long-continued rains have caused a backward season; rain swept away all his fence rails, but has deposited about $300 worth of rails and good lumber; is not coming to Ceresville till after the election; asks William if there are any races at Baltimore; has not gossip of Bath [Va.] or Bedford [Va.] for Susan; political outlook is dreary.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 26 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: E. G. Williams Sapt. 1816.
1816 Oct. 4
W[illiam] COOKE, Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Fred[eric]k Town.
[1049]
G[eorge] P. S[tevenson] has failed for a large amount; Williams' friend L[yde] G[oodwin] is ruined, and can pay only his own debts and not his endorsements; [Michael] McB[lair] cannot pay, and if the house of H[ollins] and McB[lair] stands at all, it will be much pushed, and must have time; all these persons have purchased and shipped flour, and their failure may hurt the market.
A.L.S. 1 p. 22.5 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed: Wm. Cooke Esq.
[1816?] Oct. 15
E[dward] G[reene] WILLIAMS, Springfield [Washington County]. To William Elie WILLIAMS [Ceresville].
[1050]
Intended to go down the day after the election, but caught cold; now will wait till the end of the week and spend a few days with his brother William on the way to
Baltimore and the races; rumor of William's sprained ankle has been magnified into an amputation; news from Baltimore tells of failures occuring daily: I only yesterday heard that G[eorge] P. Stevenson had failed to a great amount; state of business is terrible, but the price of flour is looking up; all are momentarily expecting her [Mrs. Otho Holland Williams'] decease, what a dreadful trial she has had; I co[ul]d write as well with a stick or toothpick as this miserable pen and have no knife.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 26 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: E. G. Williams.
1816 Oct. 25
William COOKE Junr., Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceres Ville near Frederick Town.
[1051]
Just got home from Pennsylvania and encloses a plan of Graham's ice house; gives details of its construction; price of flour has not fallen, partly because the corn crop was poor; recent private letters from England show fear of a scarcity; 4,000 barrels of flour have gone from Baltimore to Boston [Mass.] without affecting the price of flour there; wheat sold recently for 220 cents; Williams has doubtless heard of Mrs. Cooke's illness; she is upon the recovery; his father too had a smart attack, a few days ago, but is out again; everyone else well; flour from waggons 10$.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 25 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: W. Cooke Junr.
Enclosure missing.
1816 Oct. 30
H[enry] L[ee] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceres Ville near Fred-Town.
[1052]
Received William's letter with the enclosure, which he is returning for Otho's [their brother] use; the enclosure, with $3,000 from William himself, will meet Otho's obligations in Frederick; with what Otho has in Baltimore, Henry will meet William's obligations in Baltimore by November 9; asks William to attend at once to the matter of meeting Otho's obligations, and to send word that he has done so; is going to pay Mr. Frank Cooke $1,000 today on William's account; [John] Leatherwood has now set a day for the payment of Henry's order on him; when William disposes of the Talaveria colt, Henry will probably send him another to winter; John Smith may still come back to Frederick County to exchange Kentucky or other back lands for D'Arnell's [Darnell] estate; Smith wants Henry to take him around in his [Henry's] gig, but he can't do it; [John W.] McCabe is not going to buy Express [horse]; has William made provision for Otho as before mentioned.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: H. L. Williams.
Enclosure missing.
1816 Nov. 1
C[hristopher] HUGHES Junr., Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville near Frederick Town.
[1053]
Has an excellent excuse for not keeping the clarot for him [Williams], but no time to write it; has found the London bill for his saddle, etc., and can afford to receive $32 for the saddle and bridle; if Williams thinks it too much, he may pay what he thinks right to George [Hughes?]; he [Hughes] and Laura sail on the 3d.
A.L.S. 1 p. 24.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: C. Hughes Junr.
1816 Dec. 8
R[ichard] PINDELL, Lexington [Ky.]. To Dr. Frisby TILGHMAN, [Dr.?] Jacob SCHNEBLY, Capt. Edwd G[reene] WILLIAMS, John BOWLES Esquire, Annapolis.
[1054]
Is old, diseased, and in need; has therefore decided, reluctantly, to apply to the Maryland legislature to remunerate him for two valuable horses, taken from him in the Carolinas during the Revolutionary War, while doing extra duty; also to make good to him the deficiency of half pay, so unjustly withheld by the General Government, who were petitioned in vain; went early into the struggles for Liberty; served until the close of the War; refused offers to go into private practice; has the Vanity to think, that I performed some military Atcheivements, that would have done Honour to those who [sic] duty it was to meet in Battle the Bristled Bayonetts; rallied the troops at Brandywine, and with the help of Mr. William Smith, kept command of them until Colonel [Josias Carvel] Hall came up; after [Major General Horatio] Gates' retreat at the Pee Dee [S.C.], he [Pindell], with four men, routed a regiment, took some prisoners, and delivered them safe to the authorities at Hillsborough [N.C.]; rallied the militia at the Cow Penns [Cowpens, S.C.] and, with the help of Lieut. [William] Hanson of Charles County, took care of wounded and prisoners; after Guilford [N.C.], he was attached to Gen. [Otho Holland] Williams' infantry; helped rally the troops in the second action of Canden [S.C.], and saved the life of Lieut. [Edward] Dyer at the risk of his own; helped the intrepid James Ewing at the battle of Eutaw Springs, at the risk of his life; at Eutaw he also dressed the wounds of John Eager Howard, and was about to dress those of Capt. Henry Dobson when Dobson died; has written to Howard, whom he wishes to hand in his memorial if he will; has several friends in the House; thought he could live until a general law was passed for all the diseased and superannuated, but finds that he cannot
A.L.S. 8 pp. 33 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed: Letters from and Relative to Dr. Pindell.
Enclosed with entry 1055.
Published in Maryland Historical Magazine, XVIII: 314-320, December 1923.
1817 Jan. 20
John E[ager] HOWARD, Belvidere [Baltimore]. To Edward G[reene] WILLIAMS, House of Delegates, Annapolis.
[1055]
Showed the enclosed memorial of Dr. [Richard] Pindell to William Elie Williams when he saw him Saturday, and told him he was going to write to Edward Williams to try to get a resolution passed giving Dr. Pindell half pay for life; knows the opinion Otho Holland Williams and Col. [Josias Carvel] Hall had of the doctor; wishes Edward to speak to Col. John Gassaway of Annapolis, Col. Wm. D. Beall of Prince George's, and any others who might be able and disposed to help the Doctor; to pay Pindell for the horses stolen would be to run the risk of too many fraudulent claims, and this Howard therefore does not favor; asks that the letter enclosed be returned to him [Howard] at the end of the session.
A.L.S. [?] 3 pp. 24.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: Dr. Richard Pindell's Petition to the M[arylan]d Legislature.
For enclosure see entry 1054.
Published in Maryland Historical Magazine, XVIII: 320, 321, December 1923.
1817 Feb. 24
W[illiam] TYLER, Fred[eric]k Town. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, at Mr. Cookes, Baltimore.
[1056]
Notifies Williams that he has been chosen as a manager of an Office of Discount and Deposit which the Bank of Westminster is setting up in Frederick; others are R[oger] B[rooke] Taney, F[rederick] A. Schley, A. Shriver, R. Brooke, J. Swearingen, J. Brengle, J. Davis, B[enjamin] Rutherford, C. Mantz, W. R. Sanderson, H[enry] Kuhn; managers are to meet next Wednesday at Colonel Huston's Tavern [Frederick]; asks Williams to say whether he will serve.
A.L.S. 1 p. 24 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed: W. Tyler Fred[eric]k Town.
1817 Mar. 1
E[dward] G[reene] WILLIAMS, Springfield [Washington County]. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[1057]
Congratulates William on the birth of a son [William Smith Williams] February 22, and the safety of the mother; presumes no name is chosen yet; strange that William says nothing about Mary's cough, or about her health since her nose is put out of joint; the Conococheague Bank has not yet resumed discounting, so it will be useless for William to apply for a loan; Edward cannot now lend him anything; the death of Mrs. [Frisby] Tilghman is a most grievous affliction to the Col. [Frisby Tilghman], and his friends, of whom Edward is one; Mrs. Tilghman's daughter, Mrs. [William] Hammond, lost an infant son four or five days ago; anxious for news of [Otho] whose movements he does not understand.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 26 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: E.G.W.
1817 Mar. 7
William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Baltimore. To William TYLER [Frederick].
[1058]
Declines, on account of private concerns, to serve as a director in the [Frederick branch of the] Westminster Bank.
A.Df.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
1817 Mar. 17
E[dward] G[reene] WILLIAMS, Springfield [Washington County]. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[1059]
Hopes that his first letter about the loan did not miscarry; our board have not only declined to grant any more loans but are even curtailing those they have made; he [Edward] cannot understand why this is necessary, for he thinks the affairs of the Bank are as prosperous as any bank's; assures William that it just is not in his [Edward's] power to give him the aid he requires; heard accidentally of the visit of Henry Lee and William to the City [of Washington?]; the ceremony of installation must have been splendid; President [James] Monroe's inaugural address was greatly inferior to the eloquent Mr. [Thomas] Jefferson; asks William if he knows anything about their brother Otho, for he [Edward] is worried about him; does not send any more to the Baltimore market, for his waggoner got drunk last time, did not do any of the things he was told to do, and brought the team home in a dreadful condition; sends by river to Georgetown [D.C.]; poor Irwin died of the pleurisy, a very great loss to his family and society; says William's letters are all right except that they are not frequent enough and are all business.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 26 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: E. G. Williams 1817.
1817 Apr. 5
Dr. R[ichard] PINDELL, Lexington [Ky.]. To E[dward] G[reene] WILLIAMS, Springfield [Washington County].
[1060]
Received Edward's letter from Annapolis, written the day the legislature voted to help him [Pindell], and would have answered it, had he not been waiting for a promised letter of details; has always loved Edward's parents, and is distantly connected with Otho Holland; Maryland has been more generous to those who served her than any other State; he [Pindell] thanks especially [John Eager] Howard and [John] Stewart and [John] Kilty; he cared for young Stewart when he was wounded and totally deranged, after the battle of Eutaw Springs; asks for news of everybody, Mrs. Kondal and her family, Mrs. Smoot, Mrs. Harrison and the Misses Davis and all their offspring.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 25 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Doctor Pindell.
Published in Maryland Historical Magazine, XVIII: 321-323, December 1923.
1817 May 15
E[dward] G[reene] WILLIAMS, Springfield [Washington County]. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Ceres Ville, near Frederick.
[1061]
Has just learned from Chow that William is probably at Ceresville, though Mrs. [William] Cooke [Sr.] is said to be still extremely ill; is looking for Otho and maybe Henry; the theatre however may [UNK] the latter [Henry?] and the weighty concerns of Surrey perhaps detain its Lord [Otho?]; housebound with a cold for several days; had his feet wet all day Wednesday, transplanting trout, from the mountain about fifteen miles hence to his spring; I have four pair very fine ones launched into their new abode,... with every prospect of doing well; jogging along here, not disturbed by the Hessians [Hessian flies?], though the caterpillars and the locusts are troublesome; grain crops are fair; corn is peeping and ho [Edward] hopes to have a fine crop of it; Henry has not written since March and William and Otho have not paid me much of your usual attention; longs to see William's baby son [William Smith Williams].
A.L.S. 2 pp. 26 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: E. G. Williams.
1817 May 20
Sophia COOKE, Baltimore. To W[illiam] E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville (near) Frederick Town.
[1062]
Williams will be surprised to know she is in Baltimore, but she had a tooth ache and had to come to see [Dr. Horace H.] Hayden; Frank's letter from the Hermitage told Williams about our dear father's situation; he [the father] often regrets that he left Baltimore, but their mother is greatly consoled that overything has been done to prolong his life; Frank returns to Baltimore Wednesday and then perhaps the steam-boat will be sent over; she is going back to the Hermitage tomorrow and will write to Susan by Mr. [Alexander] Hemsley who will be in Frederick Town Tuesday; grieving greatly over the state of her father's health.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 26 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: Sophia Cooke.
1817 May 22
Frank COOKE [Baltimore]. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Coresville [Frederick County].
[1063]
Hoped he would be able to give Williams a brighter account of his [Cooke's] father, but William and George [Cooke] who came back last night, say their father is definitely worse; he [Frank Cooke] will go over [to the Eastern Shore] Saturday; flour down to $11 and much coming in; spades and many other things were sent by the waggon today; hopes Williams' [boar] Steline [?] will not be a disappointment; William's [Cooke] son, George, has a fever; The Cookery book is not on the piano, nor can I find it any where in the House; when he [Cooke] saw Otho this morning, he complained of his breast.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: F. Cooke.
1817 May 31
George COOKE, Baltimore. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County].
[1064]
Sophia [Cooke] and her sister [Catherine Clapham] and Mr. [Jonas] Clapham and Dr. [Ashton] Alexander went over today and when the boat gets back tomorrow, he [Cooke] will know how his father is; Otho says he is going to Cerosville Monday, and Cooke will send a letter by him; Your Chinese Boar has arrived and I have him fixed in my Father's Carriage House; paid Mr. Gwinn two dollars expenses for bringing the boar down; thinks it [the boar] will be an acquisition; Ellen [his wife] sends love.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: G. Cooke.
1817 June 7
Jacob HOLLINGSWORTH, Balt[imor]e. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Coresville near Fredericktown.
[1065]
Was wrong in thinking his mare was in foal to Carroll's jack, and wants to send her up to Williams', which he hears is the finest jack in the state; would like Williams' waggoner to work the mare back up to Ceresville next time he comes down; the mare is at the mill and the waggoner will call at the store to get her; moved up, two weeks ago, to his farm, and will spend the summer there; Mr. [William] Cook[e, Sr.] came over yesterday in the steam boat; he is sinking slowly; flour is 11½$, and wheat 230 Cts.; the [Hessian?] fly and the cut worms are very destructive on the Ridge; late rains have helped the wheat.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Jacob Hollingsworth.
1817 June 7
C[hristopher] HUGHES Junr., Stockholm, Sweden. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS.
[1066]
Congratulates Williams on the birth of his son [William Smith Williams]; he [Hughes] may have one in several months; will be uneasy about Laura [his wife] til it is all safely over; bids Williams kiss the little gypsy [Williams' daughter, Elizabeth] for me; Laura and I even at this distance often talk of her sayings and laugh at the little rogue; is quite contented with his present circumstances, and thinks himself wise to devote two or three years to this sort of life; likes especially a Mr. Rumigny, the Charge d'Affaires de France, who had been the private secretary of Napoleon; De Calve is at Koppenhagen [Copenhagen, Denmark]; when the Hugheses arrived, De Calve sent carpet, wines, dinners, and everything to the Inn, and his horses and carriages were at their service every day; De Calve asked especially for Williams and for his Uncle and Aunt Smith; America is much hated and slandered in Europe for its prosperity and for its republican institutions; Foster, the British minister at Copenhagen, gave Hughes a most civil
and hospitable reception; the Duke of Devonshire is now in Stockholm on his way to St. Petersburg to attend the nuptials of his friend, the Arch Duke Nicholas; Devonshire is about six feet two, not good-looking, and deaf as a post; he is twenty-seven years old and has a clergyman and a physician with him, he is amiable and unassuming; he [Hughes] dines with the Minister of State tomorrow and with the Russian Ambassador the next day, and must dress in constume; scolds Williams for not writing to him; in England he met and joined [Joseph] Patterson, who is heartily tired of Europe; asks Williams to present him respectfully to Mr. [William] Cooke [Sr.] and to say that Cooke's friend [Sir Edward] Thornton had left Stockholm before the Hugheses arrived; Thornton is going to Rio Janiero; Thornton left behind him a name unsurpassably odious; his house was a scene of the most shocking indecencies,... he... beat a female servant until she lost her reason,... [and] justified himself in the coolest manner!; the Queen [Adelaide] has spoken kindly of them [the Hugheses]; bids Williams tell Mr. Cooke he is sorry to send him such an account of Thornton, but it is true; says Sophia Cooke and Mr. Goodwin and J. [?] Campbell ought to be ashamed of themselves; congratulates Frank Cooke on Mr. Hollingsworth's marriage.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 25 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: C. Hughes Jun 1817.
1817 June 11
William COOKE Jr., Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville near Frederick Town.
[1067]
Prospects of flour are not good; prices of flour in England are rising a little; the waggon price is only 11.25 Country money; did not foresee the unfavorable turn and cannot account for it; late in March some members of the British ministry were afraid it might go to 100 shillings per barrel; got back from Philadelphia Friday and found his father back from the Eastern Shore, no better for the trip; he [William Jr.] has had a Bilious Cholic for several days; asked [his sister] Sophia to tell Williams and Susan it would give him the greatest pleasure if they would come down to his house; his father [William Sr.] is weaker, and cannot recover, but it will be months before he dies.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 25 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Wm. Cooke Junr. June 1817.
1817 June 25
William DAWSON [British Consul], Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County].
[1068]
Sorry to hear by Williams' letter of June 21 that he was so extensive a sufferer by the late tempestuary weather; wrote to Liverpool, Eng., as soon as he got Williams' letter of May 31 and ordered a throshing machine to be sent with all possible dispatch; will countermand the order by the first vessel sailing, but it will be a week or so, and
the machine will probably have been sent off.
A.L.S. 1 p. 23 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed: Wm. Dawson 28th [sic] June 1817.
1817 June 28
George COOKE, Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville near Frederick Town.
[1069]
Susan and the children arrived in Baltimore today, after spending the night at Mr. Carroll's, owing to the Horses being... too fat to come all the way yesterday; his father is worse, but the doctors think he will not die for two months; sorry to hear of the destruction of Williams' crops.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Goo Cooke June 28th 1817.
1817 July 9
George COOKE, Balt[im]o[re]. To W[illiam] E[lie] WILLIAMS, Fred[erick] Town.
[1070]
Just got home and was mortified to find Williams had gone home; regrets the cause of his leaving and hopes that the complaint has been removed; hopes Williams and Susan were taken care of and is sorry Ellen [his wife] was not there; found his father weaker; Sophia [Cooke] will have written the details; flour prices are still lower.
A.L.S. 1 p. 26 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Geo. Cooke 9th July 1817.
1817 July 9
Sophia COOKE, Baltimore. To Mrs. Susan WILLIAMS, Ceresville (near) Frederick Town.
[1071]
About nine o'clock this morning they thought father was dying; Dr. [Ashton] Alexander thinks he took cold, but this morning's attack may have been nervous; has a sore finger, so Susan must not expect her to write at longth; will send for Susan if father is not better very soon.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Miss Cooke July 1817.
1817 July 10
William DAWSON [British Consul], Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Chesville [Ceresville], near Frederick Town.
[1072]
Received Williams' letter of July 9 and regretted missing him when he was in Baltimore; Mr. F[rank] Cooke told him [Dawson] that Williams again wanted a thrashing machine, so, by the Amazon which cleared yesterday, he gave a fresh order for one; and by the Rising Sun sailing tomorrow, he will order two more Williams and his friends want; glad to have introduced into the country so truly useful a machine; has for years been recommending it to his friend Mr. Arch[ibal]d Lee's father, Mr. T[homas] S. Lee [near] Frederick Town; it will save its cost in two or three years and he never knew a person who possessed one that would be without it; has also introduced another machine termed a Haymaker...it is a skeleton cylinder with hooks jointed and so constructed as to spread the grass from the swathe upon uneven equally as
well as on smooth ground, [UNK] it would not work in a[n] ungrubbed] field; drawn by a single horse with a boy on his back, it will go 4 or 5 miles an hour and turn more hay than 15 men would in this country; costs 150 or 160 dollars and Williams could have seen one in operation at Baltimore.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 23 cm. × 18.5 cm.
Endorsed: Wm. Dawson Esq His B.M. Consul Genl. for the State of Maryland July 1817.
1817 July 14
William COOKE Jr., Baltimore. To [William Elie] WILLIAMS.
[1073]
No letters from Williams or Susan since they left Baltimore, but Mr. Hyde says they are well; his father much worse; according to English accounts to June first, flour has taken a great and sudden rise in price, selling for 76 shillings a barrel; his [William Jr.'s] first shipment arrived at London May 26, just after the turn; American prices are as yet little affected; in Philadelphia they are asking $12.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Fr Wm. Cooke Junr. July 1817.
1817 July 14
Benj[amin] OGLE, Bel Air [Prince George's County]. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Frederick Town.
[1074]
Williams' letter with fifty dollars for Mr. [John] Tayloe has been received before some others, so if Williams sinned he was not alone; he [Ogle] sinned too, in dunning; invites Williams to Bel Air.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 19.5 cm.
Endorsed: B Ogle Esq July 1817.
1817 July 16
George COOKE, Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Frederick Town.
[1075]
Got back from Bel Air and found two letters from Williams; glad [Williams' son] William is well again; the trunks were not sent to W and Winns, because the servants thought the wagon was coming here for them, and they are here now; will do all he can to get the Butchers to pay Williams a profitable visit; Boyce behaved as honorably as could be wished; his father is no worse; William [Cooke, Jr.] was told by the Doctor to go to his wife, from whom he had had unfavorable accounts, since his father might stay as he was a long time; his mother looks better; he and Ellen would like to pay Williams and Susan a visit; glad Williams' crops are good.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Geo Cooke.
1817 July 17
W[illia]m COOKE Jr., Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville near Frederick Town.
[1076]
Asked Sophia [Cooke] to tell Williams in her letter that if he had any flour, he had better send it down at
once; price today is eleven dollars off the waggons, and the vessels loading now will take all there is on hand here; going, this evening, to his wife who is ill.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Wm. Cooke Junr. July 1817.
1817 July 17
E[dward] G[reene] WILLIAMS. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Ceres Ville near Frederick.
[1077]
Heard indirectly that William had returned to Ceres Ville; concludes that Mr. [William] Cooke [Sr.] is still alive; heard also indirectly that Susan and the babies and her nieces, the Ogles, are going to spend the summer with him [Edward], and hopes the rumor is true; his wheat crop will be only half a crop and troublesome to get in; many of his neighbors will have no subsistence, and must buy their seed grain; fine crop of timothy on the river bottom; was not at bank the last discount day, and does not know whether William's slate man came; wants the slate man to cover the house handsomely and durably at once; asks if William has talked to Shriver and Co. about the road; recent letters from Bruce are unpromising, and the project may fall through the obstinacy of Van Lear who is most interested in it.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 26 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: Brother Edward July 1817.
1817 July 21
F[rank] COOKE, Balt[imor]e. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Cores Ville, near Frederick Town.
[1078]
Father still in the same low state; Sophia [Cooke] is not well and took medicine last night, therefore will not write today; Messrs. Oliver, Smith Hollins and Wm. Buchanan, last the not least in the fashionable world, arrived recently in Baltimore; flour is 78 or 79 shillings a barrel.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: F Cooke.
1817 Oct. 10
E[dward] G[reene] WILLIAMS, Springfield [Washington County]. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Ceres Ville near Frederick Town.
[1079]
His factotum, Ricketts, is on a trip to the west, and he [Edward] cannot get to Ceres ville for a visit; has an assistant but cannot leave him alone; what William told him was the first news he has had of their brothers [Otho and Henry]; Henry never writes; glad Otho is to be with William in a few weeks; if he [Edward] completes his seeding, he will be there too; William must have enjoyed the deer hunts at Bel Air and all the hospitality of the family; he [Edward] would have been there if he could; glad to have William say that he [Edward] is in high favor at Bel Air: I may yet eat pears with them this fall; boats used on this river have a capacity of from 40 to 160 barrels, for the river navigation fluctuates so much that large boats cannot be used; boat for 140 barrels costs $120, for 60 barrels, $75; boats for 100 barrels are
rarely built, since they cost almost as much as the largest ones used; 140-barrel boat draws about 29 inches; steersman gets $14 to Georgetown [D.C.] and back, a hand gets $8; four hands are needed; does not think he [Edward] can send William a boatman, for the good ones can't be got and the worthless ones can't be trusted; is going to invite Henry to meet him at the [Washington] City races and go home with him to those at Hagerstown; suggests that William join them.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 26 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: E.G.W.
1817 Oct. 10
Otho [Holland WILLIAMS], Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County].
[1080]
Has been upstairs in bed for ten days and is still weak; will come home in about 2 weeks more at furthermost; has great confidence in William's abilities and accepts the offer of his services; sends a present of a carriage to my nephew William [born February 22, 1817] with a hope that it may... not keep him from his book; asks William to care for a small chest which he is also sending.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: O.H.W.
1817 Oct. 11
L[ewis] BARNEY, Baltimore. To W[illia]m E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville near Frederick Town.
[1081]
Elie Clagett has undertaken to carry on Mr. [Edward] Johnson's brewery, and is trying to persuade John [Barney] and him [Lewis] to take his [Clagett's] stand at the head of Market [now Baltimore] Street and engage in the flour and plaister business; asks Williams to transfer his agency to him [Barney]; he will take care of Williams' bad flour before it gets worse; asks Williams to answer by return of post; his wife sends greetings.
A.L.S. 1 p. 24 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: Louis Barney Oct 1817.
1817 Oct. 15
Jacob HOLLINGSWORTH, Baltimore. To [William Elie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County].
[1082]
Just got to town and received Williams' letter; English wheat crops were so abundant that the price of flour is falling fast; flour is now $9.25 at 60 days and wheat $1.80 to $2 and dull; market is very fluctuating; business everywhere is stagnating.
A.L.S. 1 p. 24.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: J. Hollingsworth Oct 1817.
1817 Oct. 29
William T. T. MASON, Frederick Town. To W[illiam] E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County].
[1083]
In this county, August and September are the months in which overseers' contracts are made, and men not engaged then are likely to be not worth having; nevertheless, he will keep looking; if he finds one he can recommend to
Williams, he will do so; would like to make Williams a visit and see the threshing machine in operation, but business calls him to Baltimore; asks when Williams is going to visit him as he promised to do.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: Wm. T. T. Mason.
1817 Nov. 26
F[rancis] S[cott] KEY, Montg[omer]y C[our]t House. To [William Elie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville, near Fred[eric]k Town.
[1084]
General William T. Temple Mason asked Key to put off answering Williams' inquiries till he could get fuller answers; Mr. Foxhall has also made inquiries; Mason and Foxhall are going to send Williams a statement in writing; Foxhall has found out that there are no obstructions in the [Potomac] river from the mouth of the Monocacy to the little falls; a canal near Seneca has had some of the stones of its banks washed into the water but navigation is still possible; the stonework of the locks at the little falls is done and the gates are nearly hung, but the water will not be turned in yet, while the work is green; by spring, navigation will be better than it has ever been; hopes by that time Williams will be ready to try it.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 26 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: F. Key Esq Nov 30th 1817.
1817 Nov. 28
Henry [Lee WILLIAMS], Balt[im]o[re]. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville (near) Frederick Town.
[1085]
The ship Madison is up for Havana; G[eorge] P. Stevenson goes in her and has engaged passage for Otho [their brother], though Otho may not consent to go; the Geo'town Serv[an]t cant go. my John wants to go... Jonas [a servant] who lived with G[eorge] P. S[tevenson] this moment applied and appears to be the best [to go as Otho's body-servant]; Otho's situation here is rather uncomfortable; Eli [Philips] declined his charge on Wedenesday [sic] evening all safe. Johnny Wooden takes Bill and pays for the balance of his time; William Patterson offers two dollars a cord for the wood in the wood lot, and will pay for it as he sells it; he [Henry] thinks William cannot do better; asks an immediate answer.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: H. L. Williams Nov. 1817.
1817 Nov. 30
Otho [Holland WILLIAMS], Balt[im]o[re]. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Frederick Town.
[1086]
Expected to sail today, but [George P.?] Stevenson says now that they are sailing in the Madison next Sunday morning; asks how William fixed things with Eli Philips and his troublesome wife; asks William to tell Yantes to write to him [Otho] and he [William] will forward it; owns about three acres in Baltzell's field which Baltzell has been using as his own, and asks William to see to it that when Baltzell sells, his [Otho's] rights are kept; Bright Bill brought his clothes, but no
letter; the honey William sent is not fit to use; has been troubled with his old complaint ever since he left William's; Dr. [Ashton] Alexander says only a warm climate will benefit him; thinks himself in a bad way.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: My brother O. H. Williams Nov. 30th, 1817.
1817 Dec. 5
F[rank] COOKE, Baltimore. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS.
[1087]
Is crossing the bay tomorrow for 10 days with Richard [Tilghman]; Sophia [Cooke] says his [Frank's] allowance of breakfast is enormous; thinks his mother is very considerably better; hopes Williams and his family will be with him this winter as they have usually been, for it is good for his mother to have them; Sophia wants them to come, too; late accounts from England say that all the ports will be shut on November 15; supposes flour will continue to fall; glad Henry is going with Otho, even though it is not convenient for Henry; will be glad to hear from him [Williams] and still more glad to see them all whenever they can come.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: F Cooke Dec. 5th. 1817.
1817 Dec. 9
Otho H[olland] WILLIAMS, Balt[im]o[re]. To W[illia]m E[lie] W[ILLIAM]S.
[1088]
Is here yet, dying to get away. I feel myself getting worse daily,... I cough harder, which has undone all the good effects of the Ivy tea. But Geo Stevenson... says the Ship... must positively sail the next day [after tomorrow]; joins William in a hearty damn to the doctors generally; hopes his fistula is healing; has tried caustic, Cayenne pepper andc., andc.; Aunt Pierce, Mrs. [William] Cooke [Sr.], and the ladies of Mrs. [Jonas] Clapham's family have loaded him with cakes and good wishes; is told there is nothing better for seasickness than ginger cakes; will write often, as William urged him to do; glad their brother Henry is going with him; the company is very clever and gentlemanly, and he is well supplied with provisions, so the voyage promises to be enjoyable; is not worrying about his property for William can look after it better than he himself could; hopes Eli [Philips] and his wife have been settled; asks how Surry and the mill are doing.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Otho H. Williams 1817.
1817 Dec. 10
F[rancis] S[cott] KEY [Georgetown, D.C.?]. To [William Elie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County].
[1089]
General Walter Smith will take all the flour that can be sent to him, and will pay, in cash, the Baltimore price less 50¢ per barrel; everyone says Georgetown is generally as good a market for flour as Baltimore; thinks Williams' best plan will be to try it, without making such
a bargain; with purchases being made on the scale of Smith's, it is not likely that flour will fall; Washington Bowie will sell for Williams on commission of 2½ per cent; Key is told that that is a favorable bargain; General [William T. Temple] [UNK] asked him [Key] to say the locks are done.
A.L.S. 1 p. 34.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: Fr. Key Esqr.
1817 Dec. 12
George COOKE. To W[illiam] E[lie] WILLIAMS, Frederick Town.
[1090]
Boyce asked him [Cooke] to tell Williams that he [Boyce] has brought from New York a pair of coach horses for Williams, and that he is holding them for him, though several people want to buy them; Charles Ridgely wants to get one of them as a saddle horse for the Governor [Charles Ridgely]; he [Cooke] thinks them the finest horses Boyce has ever brought on; Boyce wants $600 for them from Williams, and $700 from anyone else; perhaps Williams can make an arrangement with Boyce involving his blacks, but I think you ought not to let these slip you; his mother has been truly wretched lately and he does not see much chance of her getting better; called to see Otho a day or so ago and found him at least no worse; Otho and Henry will probably get off Sunday; Mr. William Hall and his party arrived at Savannah [Ga.] after a passage of seven days; Frank [Cooke] is over on the Eastern Shore for a few days, and that leaves his mother lonesome; hopes Williams and Susan will return as soon as possible, for his mother was better when they were with her.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Geo Cooke Dec 1817.
1817 Dec. 27
George COOKE. To [William Elie] WILLIAMS.
[1091]
Hopes Williams will be able to erect his wheat machine, and that he will be down when he thought he would; since Christmas Eve his mother's condition has been most distressing; by now Williams will have received his [Cooke's] more particular description of the horses; he [Cooke] received the draft Williams sent and had it accepted; hopes very much that Williams did not think he was hinting that he wanted payment, for he did not; the amount of the draft was wrong, for he did not intend to charge interest and will not receive it; it would then destroy the gratification he experienced in having it in his power to serve Williams; this morning my little woman gave me a fine BOY [James Dall Cooke] and both are well; is almost intoxicated with Joy and only wish I had now a chance of being so with you from fine old Madeira.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Geo Cooke Dec 1817.
1818 Feb. 8
Christopher HUGHES, Jr., Stockholm [Sweden]. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville, Frederick County, Maryland.
[1092]
Received Williams' letter of October 6, 1817 from Ceresville; has heard only from him and Lyde Goodwin, though he does not think [John] Mercer and [Benjamin Chew] Howard are less friendly to him; Laura [Smith Hughes, his wife] enjoyed the abundance of detail in the letter; King Charles XIII worn out with infirmities, has died and been succeeded by Charles John [Jean-Baptiste-Jules Bernadotte], amid general approval; the new king is a most distinguished personage, and decidedly among the most elegant and commanding men I have ever seen; the Hugheses' son [Charles John], born just before Williams' letter arrived, is a fine baby; Sweden has an indigenous clover, neither red nor white, that the cattle prefer to any other feed; there is also a large yellow turnip [Rutabaga], known in England as the Swedish turnip, and a kind of oats, black and not large in the grain, but very hardy and nutritious and solid, and having a straw that the cattle eat as eagerly as they do timothy; he [Hughes] will send Williams some seed of these plants if he wishes; farmers here use an iron roller, not to smoothe the surface, but to break up the soil after ploughing; such a machine is not dear, but Maryland agriculture is probably on too big a scale to need it; he is too ignorant of agriculture to give advice, but Williams is to show this letter to John T. Mason, and let him [Hughes] know what the two of them think of its ideas; Europe is coming, with incredible slowness, to understand the United States; Swedish linen is excellent in wear, and dog-cheap, but not the quality Williams wants; can get him, from Hamburg, through Richard Parish, brother of David, as much and as fine linen as he likes; he and Laura think Williams' order includes too many cloths and too few napkins; will send also some unbleached Silesian cloths, such as are used on little tables and are very handsomely figurod; will get Williams anything he commissions, a favor that experience in carrying out commissions leads him to do for very few people; only thing he could send from here is porphory, which is beautiful and cheap; congratulates their friend [James] Creighton on his escape from an unsuitable marriage; Creighton was very near losing his nose in the Palais Royal... where many an honest fellow has lost his nose, but in a very different conflict; the Pattersons have not been spoiled by their success with English grandees; even though he has some points he [Hughes] does not like, Bob Patterson is a good fellow and worth all his faults; John Patterson is much superior to Robert in intellect, but Robert is the best of the name, for those qualities that originate in and revolve round the heart; Bob's wife [Mary Caton Patterson] has been adored in Europe for her manners, her conduct and her beauty; Betsy [Patterson Bonaparte] was number 3 in influence and popularity;
as to little Dick, she is the most playful imposter since the time of Mahomet; sends love to Sophia [Cooke], Sophia Campbell, Mrs. William Cooke, Frank Cooke, Edward [Greene Williams] and Henry [Lee Williams]; except as to pleasures and ancient monuments, Europe is incredibly inferior to the United States; best respects to Mr. Tawney [Roger Brooke Taney]; love to Mr. and Mrs. Robert Smith and to Sam[uel Smith].
A.L.S. 8 pp. 25 cm. × 20.5 cm.
1818 Apr. 18
James INGLIS, Baltimore. To W[illiam] E[lie] WILLIAMS.
[1093]
The special circumstances of the death of Otho Holland Williams [son of Otho Holland Williams, at Charleston, S.C. on March 16, 1818] incline him [Inglis] to accede to the request of Williams' surviving brothers, but he cannot do it; save for the opening sentences of the service, taken from the Episcopal ritual for the dead, the address and the prayer were, as usual, unpremeditated, and he cannot reproduce it in any satisfactory way.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Revd. Jas Inglis Balte In answer to a request for a copy of his address at the funeral of O. H. Williams. April 1818.
1818 May 2
William CAMPBELL. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[1094]
Frederick Keller delivered Williams' letter yesterday morning, and spoke of what he supposed was in it; Keller said it had been decided to go back with the cattle yesterday, so that he [Campbell] did not write about them; $65 was more than he [Campbell] expected to get for them, although he had thought they would accept 650. Loss of money has no share in the Pain that I derive from the Information that your friendly favour contains.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Wm Campbell 2nd May 1818.
1818 May 6
Christ[ophe]r HUGHES, Jr., Stockholm [Sweden]. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Frederick, Maryland.
[1095]
Sent Williams a very long letter [on February 8, 1818], full of details social, political and agricultural, and including advice about the household linen Williams wanted; their son [Charles John Hughes] is now five months old, but they have had no acknowledgement that the news of his birth has reached America; the baby has been vaccinated; encloses a draft of the roller he described to him [Williams]; it is composed of two arms joined in the middle, each having a broken cogged surface; the coronation [of King Charles John] on May 11 will be a splendid affair, though the country is poor and sterile; they [the Hugheses] have invitations to dinners and fetes from the first people in the kingdom; Russell [?] is here with his wife and two daughters, living in a mean, beggarly way; Myer Myers, brother of John, a foolish ape of English dandyism, is here, and the coldblooded
murders he commits on good English, sound philosophy and good pronunciation are more embarassing to his acquaintances than his dandyism; sends compliments to Williams' uncle, Robert Smith, and bids him show Smith this letter; he [Hughes] would welcome some of Williams' hams or bacon; Lord Strangford [Percy Clinton Sydney Smythe, 6th Viscount Strangford], the British minister, has just sent him some lobsters from Gottenburg [Sweden], 500 miles away; Mrs. [?] Campbell, news of whose death has just reached him, was an excellent and amiable woman; received yesterday Wood's letter from Philadelphia, dated March 14.
A.L.S. 4 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Enclosure missing.
1818 May 25
J[ohn] S[tull] WILLIAMS, Hagers Town. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceres Ville [Frederick County].
[1096]
When he was at Ceres Ville, he was talking about going into the milling business, but he did not then know the value of Irwin's property; thinks now that the mills, houses, and some 150 acres of land will come to about $30,000; $15,000 in money or acceptable paper must be paid to the bank now, in lieu of that sum that is now owed; the remainder will be required in annual payments in 2, 3, and 4 years; he [J.S. Williams] must find security for $15,000, and is going to ask O[tho] H[olland] Williams [son of Elie and brother of John S.], J. Bach[ma]n [?], Edward [Greene Williams], Henry [Lee Williams] and William Elie Williams each to be his security for $3,000; hopes he [W.E. Williams] will not accommodate him if it is inconvenient; asks him to see Henry and Edward and to let him [J.S. Williams] know as soon as he can.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 23 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed: J.S. Williams June 1818.
1818 June 1
J[ohn] GRAHAME, Frederick Town. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Baltimore.
[1097]
From a conversation that Mr. Baer had with him [Williams], Grahame supposed Williams would not mind being a director of the Frederick County Bank; consequently he transferred ten shares of stock to Williams and he was elected; the directors are to meet on Wednesday morning to qualify and organize the board, and Williams is urged to attend.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 21 cm.
Endorsed: John Graham and answer June 1818.
For answer see entry 1098.
1818 June 5
W[illiam] E[lie] W[ILLIAMS] Ceresville [Frederick County]. To [John GRAHAME].
[1098]
Declines to serve as director in the [Frederick County] Bank, and will make over to Grahame the stock he transferred to him [Williams].
A.Df.S. 1 p. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Enclosed with entry 1097.
1818 June 8
J[ohn] GRAHAME, Rose Hill [Frederick County]. To [William Elie WILLIAMS].
[1099]
When business takes Williams to Frederick, he may see Captain [George] Baer and transfer back to him [Grahame] the bank stock; they did not know that Williams had been invited to be adirector in the Branch Bank [Frederick branch of the Bank of Westminster, Md.]; very shortly before the election closed, Mr. John Schley came in and said Colonel [John] McPherson had told him that Williams was going to go into that institution, but, since the stockholders had all voted, it was too late to rectify the choice.
A.L.S. 1 p. 25 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: J. Grahame Esqr.
1818 June 10
J[ohn] TYLER, Frederick. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County].
[1100]
Notifies Williams that he was this day elected a director in the Branch Bank, in place of John Grahame, resigned, and that he should attend next Wednesday to qualify; the stated discount days are Wednesdays, at ten o'clock in summer and at eleven o'clock in winter.
A.L.S. 1 p. 23 cm. × 19 cm.
Endorsed: Tyler. Pres[iden]t B. Bank June 1818.
1818 June [23]
James CREIGHTON. To William E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County].
[1101]
Received Williams' letter; has been refusing to sell the cows at private sale; Williams' brother Henry or [his brother-in-law] Frank Cooke could bid for him at the auction, which will positively be on the 27th; does not expect to get what the cattle cost him; three of the [four] cows are with calf; wishes Williams would come down to the sale.
A.L.S. 3 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20 cm.
A newspaper clipping, enclosed, relates to an auction of Two BULLS and Four COWS, of the genuine Alderney breed... Saturday, the 27th.
1818 June 29
George COOKE, Baltimore. To W[illiam] E[lie] WILLIAMS, Ceresville, near Frederick Town, Md.
[1102]
He and Henry [Leo Williams] agreed that James Swan should bid for him [Williams]; the red heifer went to Isaac McKim for $200.00, and the other one to Regin for $215.00; [Richard] Caton and the Governor [Charles Goldsborough] bought the two old cows for $140 and $145; Henry Thompson bought the largest bull for $280, George Howard the other bull for $230; Williams' man got here yesterday and today he and Howard's man are going to drive the bull and a calf of Williams' up together; he [Cooke] is going to Owings Springs for the day; expects to be with him [Williams] in Ceresville in a few days; his
[Cooke's] mother has been ill for a few days, and there is no other news; he gave Williams' message to [?] Stevenson.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 25.5 cm. × 20.5 cm.
Endorsed: Geo Cooke June 1818.
1818 July 6
E[dward] G[reene] WILLIAMS, Springfield [Washington County]. To William Elie WILLIAMS, Ceresville [Frederick County], Md.
[1103]
The harvest is so prodigiously interesting that he is not so interested in going to the east with Henry [Lee Williams]; crop is more abundant than over grew on that land before; a rain last night wet the grain, but his Virginia tenantry turned out this morning to reap it, and they are all good reapers; will put 20 reapers at the rye tomorrow; would be glad to have William use his [Edward's] horse for riding this summer; expects to join Henry about the 18th; their threshing machine got as far as Ringgold's [Fountain Rock?], and he regrets that he will not be there to see its first work.
A.L.S. 2 pp. 26 cm. × 20 cm.
Endorsed: E.G.Williams July 1818.
1818 July 14
H[enry] LEE [son of Light Horse Harry], Stratford, near Westmoreland C.H., Va. To William [Elie] WILLIAMS, Frederick, Md.
[1104]
His [Lee's] father died at the house of Mr. [James] Shaw, son-in-law of General [Nathanael] Greene, in Georgia; the resultant correspondence shows that Judge [William] Johnston [Johnson] of the United States Supreme Court has found a great gap in the papers of General Greene, which he has not yet been able to fill; Johnston says that Otho Holland Williams had promised to help him in his dream of writing the life of Greene, and Mr. Shaw wants to help him; Lee asks him [W.E.Williams] to examine his father's military papers, and to have made for Judge Johnston copies of those he believes helpful; Mr. Robert Smith will help him choose, and so would John Spear Smith; in a well executed biography of Genl. Greene, Genl. Williams would of course be displayed, as second in station, and second in renown; has always regarded Greene with peculiar admiration.
A.L.S. 6 pp. 25 cm. × 19.5 cm.