Washington, George (1732-1799) to Gen. Alexander Spotswood re: horses & marriage, the French fleet [incomplete]
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02842 Author/Creator: Washington, George (1732-1799) Place Written: Morristown, [New Jersey] Type: Autograph letter Date: 1779/12/15 Pagination: 2 p. 24 x 20 cm Order a Copy
Incomplete, lacking signature and close. Washington jokingly remarks that he "will take the horse... as Men take their wives -- better for worse [sic]." Also mentions his disappointment over the lack of cooperation of the French fleet.
Signer of the U.S. Constitution.
[draft]
Morris-town Decr 15th - 79
Dear Sir,
Your favor of the 21st of Novr. did not come to hand till the last Post - Mine in the same Month under cover to M.rs Washington has no doubt been forwarded to you.
I waited in continual expectation of my Nephews return for a good opportunity to send the sorrel, but as he seems to have an inclination to remain longer with the Army. I embrace Captn. Burwells offer of taking [inserted: the] horse to you. - He goes from me in very good order, and I have no doubt of his being delivered so to you. -
I will take the horse you had of Lt. Colo Washington as Men take their Wives - better for worse - [2] worse and if he should prove a jade and go limping on - I must do as they are obliged to do - make the best of a bad bargain. - Your directions for his winters treatment shall be followed. -
If you should not have succeeded in purchasing the horse you had in view at the time yr. letter of the 21st. was wrote I have only to entreat that you may not put yourself to any trouble in pursuit of one in a hurry, but when you do buy to let your choice light on a good bay - be it horse or Mare - either of which will suit me. -
We have after our disappointment in the intended cooperation with the French-fleet against New-York repaid to the place
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