Philadelphia, August 11, 1793.
Dear Sir: I received your favor of the 3d. instant a few days ago.
If there be any specific agreement, in writing, between Mr. Whiting and the occupant of my Lot in Alexandria, I must abide by it, however erroneous the measure; provided it shall appear that the tenant has, or is in a way and condition to comply with his part of the contract. If no such written agreement can be exhibited, I shall not think myself under obligation to suffer the present family to remain longer in possession; for I well remember the conversation you allude to, in your presence; and I recollect also, to have been told by my deceased Nephew, Majr. Washington, that this, or some other occupant of the house, a little before, or after that conversation, had engaged to inclose the Garden with a good Post and Rail or Plank fence, and to repair the Houses completely. If these are not done the most he can expect, is to be permitted to go off quietly.
Under this explanation of my ideas, respecting the business, I shall leave it to you, my dear Sir, to act for me as you would for yourself, and I shall feel myself very much obliged by it.
I am pleased to find by your statement of matters, that the concerns of the Potomac are so prosperous away, its funds so respectable, and that we may shortly look to reimbursements by the Tolls. From the Shanadoah will the great harvest come,