From George Washington to Robert R. Livingston, 29 April 1794
To Robert R. Livingston
(Private)
Dear Sir,Philadelphia 29th April 1794
Circumstances have rendered it expedient to recall Mr Gouvr Morris from his Mission to the Republic of France.1
Would it be convenient and agreeable to you to supply his place?
An affirmative answer, would induce an immediate nomination of you, for this appointment to the Senate, and the signifi cation of your sentiments, relatively thereto, as soon as your determination is formed would oblige me; particularly as it is not expected that that body will remain much longer in Session.2 With very great esteem & regard I am—Dear Sir Your Obedt Hble Servt
Go: Washington
ALS, NHi: Robert R. Livingston Papers; ADf[S], DNA: RG 59, Miscellaneous Letters; LB, DLC:GW. The cover is addressed to Livingston at “New York—or Clearmont.” Clermont, the Livingston family estate, was situated on the east side of the Hudson River, and Clermont Manor, a New York State Historic Site, is located in Columbia County.
1. On the French government’s dissatisfaction with Gouverneur Morris, see Thomas Jefferson’s Report on Edmond Charles Genet and Gouverneur Morris, 11 Dec. 1793, , 27:504–6.
2. GW enclosed this letter in one he wrote to John Jay on this date. Livingston declined the appointment in a letter to GW of 10 May. For the nomination of James Monroe as Morris’s successor, see GW to U.S. Senate, 27 May. The first session of the Third Congress ended on 9 June.