An autobiography of Colonel W[illia]m Few of Georgia, to [a member] of his family in New York

[added text (appears to be different hand and ink): No 3 ] An Autobiography
of Colonel Wm [William] Few
of
Georgia,
One of the two signers of the
Constitution
from that State,
addressed
to [deleted text: his [illegible text] of New York ]
to one of his family in New York.





My Dear [deleted text: Frances ]
You having often expressed a wish, that I would leave some information or memoir of my progress through life, has induced me to throw together some events that have occurred, on taking a retrospective view of my past life
You will percieve [perceive], that I have only noticed a few of those public transactions, in which I have taken the greatest interest; and in taking this review of my past conduct, a wide field is opened for reflection. I now charge myself with many errors and inadvertencies, which flowed from the precipitancy of youth, and the want of experimental knowledge. But I retain the pleasing consolation, that my intentions were correct; and in all my official transactions I have kept the public interest in view and anxiously endeavoured [endeavored] to promote it --
I have seen the origin, the progress and evils of political parties; and I have been drawn deeply into their vortex. I undeviatingly adhered to that party, which was termed Democratic or Republican; and with too much warmth exerted all my powers in support thereof. In this, I erred; for I did not receive and treat with due respect, the principles and motives of those who opposed that party
I have now found by experience, that when the community is rent by two contending parties, both striving for ascendency [ascendancy] and power, there is generally about an equal proportion of wisdom and patriotism, in each; but both parties always claim the preeminence in the patriotick [patriotic] interest, and charge there [their] opponents with ignorance ambition and avarice. By this delusion, the rage and violence of party are inculcated, and diffused among the honest and disinterested part of the community -- The young and unexperienced partizan [partisan], deeply impressed with the principles of his own party, generally believes, that all those who are opposed to him, are knavish ignorant or designing men, seeking for honors and emoluments. Thus, the machinery of political party, is put in motion by a few designing men, who are striving for power and official appointments, and by their management and influence with the aid of the press, and the exertion of Newspaper Editors the public mind is agitated; the seeds of political dissension are sewn -- ; the harmony of society is interrupted; and the public interest is often abandoned or sacrificed, to the interest of party. These are the evils of free government, which this State has long experienced; and they only can be resisted, by the wisdom and virtue of the people. It now gives me pleasure to look back at three transactions, and trace their consequences, and draw from such experimental knowledge, as may in future be useful. And if the reading thereof, should afford you any amusement, my object will be obtained.
When we sensibly feel the approaches of age, and find that, it has diminished the enjoyment of those pleasures which engaged our Juvenile pursuits, the mind seems to want objects in which it may be employed. Then it is we ruminate on times past, for a subject to exercise our faculties: and generally find amusement in taking a retrospective view of those transactions of which we have been agents or actors and love to dwell on events that are long passed, in which we were most interested --
On these reflections, I have taken up the pen, with the intention of appropriating a few leisure hours, in recording some of the most interesting of those transactions which have engaged my attention, in my progress through life
I was born in Maryland, in theCounty of Baltimore, on the
8th day of June 1748. My Father was a Farmer, and having lost the greatest part of two or three Crops by frost, determined he would seek for a Country, more favorable to agriculture; and having conferred with his neighbors on the Subject, two of them agreed to accompany him, in search for a more fertile country and milder climate. Having prepared for their journey [added text (appears to be different hand and ink): 2 ] explore the Country, and being pleased with the soil and climate, purchased lands in the banks of the River Eno, in the County of Orange. Those lands were in the natural state. not a tree had been cut. The Country was thinly inhabited, and the state of society was in the first state of civilization. My Father employed a man, to build a house on his land, and returned to remove his family -- After selling his lands in Maryland, and such of his goods and chattels as were not moveable, the remainder were placed in a Waggon [Wagon] drawn by four horses, and in a Cart drawn by two horses. In the autumn of
1758 he set out for North Carolina, with all his family and property. There a new scene opened to us. We found a mild and healthy climate, and fertile lands, but over establishment, and in the woods, and our first employment was, to cut down the timber and prepare the land for cultivation.
My Father had taken with him only four Servants, who were set to work and every exertion was made to prepare for the ensuing Crop. Then it was, I commenced the occupation of Farmer. An axe was put into my hands, and I was introduced to a hickory tree, about 12 or 15 inches diameter and was ordered to cut it down, and cut off all the branches. There was novelty in the business which I was at first pleased with, and cheerfully began the operation, but soon found myself extremely fatigued, my hands blistered and the business progressing very slowly. I thought my situation most deplorable, for I dared not [deleted text: to ] resist the order I had received to cut down the tree. I was obliged to proceed, and found that practice every day, made the labor more agreeable, and I was gradually instructed in the arts of agriculture -- For that was all I had to learn. In that Country at that time there were no Schools no churches, [deleted text: or ] parsons, [deleted text: or ] Doctors nor lawyers -- No Stores, groceries nor taverns; nor do I recollect to have seen, during the two first years, any officer Ecclesiastical, Civil or Military, except a Justice of the peace, a Constable and two or three itinerant preachers. The Justice took cognizance of their controversies to a small amount, and performed the sacerdotal functions of uniting by matrimony -- There were no poor laws and paupers -- Of the necessaries of life, there was great plenty, but no luxuries Those people had few wants, and fewer temptations to vice, than those who live in more refined society. Though ignorant, they were more virtuous, and more happy -- In the year
1760 a schoolmaster appeared, and offered his services to teach the children of the neighborhood, for twenty shillings each per year. He was employed, and about thirty scholars were collected and placed under his tuition. In that number, I was enrolled, and this was the second school I had been put to. When about six or seven years of age, I was sent to a country school of the lowest grade, the teacher was an ill tempered arbitrary man, who punished with vigour [vigor], and enforced his precepts by terror. This man was to me, the most dreadful of mankind. I detested the man, the School and the books, and spent six or eight months at that school, in terror and anxiety, with very little benefit. I was now more fortunate. This schoolmaster was a man of a mild and amiable disposition; he governed his little school with judgment and propriety, wisely distinguishing the obedient timid child from the obstinate, and contumacious, Judiciously applying the rod, when necessary. ,, He possessed the art of making his pupils fear, love and esteem him.
At this school, I spent one of the most happy years of my life -- I had the highest respect for my Preceptor and delighted in his society and instruction, and learned with facility. With him, I finished my education, the whole expence [expense] of which, did not exceed five dollars --
In
1764 my Father purchased a farm, and removed his family near to Hillsborough, which was the Metropolis of the County, where the Courts where [were] held, and all the public business done. It was a small Village which contained thirty or forty inhabitants, with two or three small stores and two or three ordinary taverns, but it was an improving village, several [unclear text: Sercth ] Merchants were, soon after, induced to establish stores, that contained a good assortment [added text (appears to be different hand and ink): 3 ] of European Merchandise, which changed the state of things for the better. A church, court house and Jail were built, but there was no parson or physician -- In that simple state of society, money was little known -- The schoolmaster was the welcome guest of his pupil, not only fed at the bountiful table, but clothed from the domestic loom -- Two or three attorneys opened their offices, and found employment. Superior and Inferior Courts of Justice were established, and a fair field was opened for the lawyers -- It was to me, the highest gratification to attend the Courts and hear their pleadings; and my ambition was excited, to acquire the knowledge and ascendency [ascendancy] they seemed to possess, but I had no other way or means of learning, but by attending the Courts and hearing the principles of law discharged and settled, until I had prevailed on a Lawyer to lend me
Jacobs law Dictionary
which I considered the greatest favor that he could confer. I read the book attentively, but not with much benefit, for I was not sufficiently acquainted with law terms, to make much progress, notwithstanding it was believed that I had acquired some law knowledge, for my neighbors sometimes applied to me for my opinion on their matters of controversy, which was flattering [added text: to ] [deleted text: of ] my vanity, and stimulated me to greater exertions --
In that Country, at that time, there was great scarcity of Books -- My Father's whole library consisted of a folio Bible,
Tillotson's Sermons
,
Barclay's apology
, and a few other Religious Books, which I read over and over, for I was fond of every Book I could get. About this time my Father purchased
Dyches Dictionary
, and a set of the
Spectator
[deleted text: [illegible text] ], with which I was greatly delighted, although I found the Spectators were wrote, in a style, different from those Books I had been accustomed to, and contained many words I did not perfectly understand, which often made it necessary, to apply to the Dictionary for a definition --
In this way, I soon acquired the knowledge of those books, and read them with additional pleasure, and much improvement. The principles of moral rectitude they contained, were then so deeply impressed on my mind, that I shall never cease to feel their influence
About the year
1767, my Father bought a farm seven miles distant, which was placed under my care, and it required my whole attention. It became my duty, every Monday morning, to go to the farm, and remain until Saturday and I was employed at the Plough -- It was my practice, every Monday, to take with me a Book, which I read at leisure hours, and took it with me to the field, and when fatigued, I retired to a shade, and read. By those means, labor became pleasant and agreeable, while the mind was amused and the understanding improved. Here I enjoyed the greatest part of one year, in uninterrupted peace and tranquility. I had only two objects [added text: in ] view -- Reading to acquire knowledge, and the cultivation of the soil, which alternately exercised my corporeal and mental faculties. I now experienced, that the proper and equal exercise of the body and mind, ensures the greatest portion of human happiness. I was successful in my labor -- the season was favorable, and I raised a good Crop
My Father had now unfortunately got entangled in Law -- he had been security for two or three persons who deceived him. Several law suits had been commenced against him, and Judgments had been obtained, with which his property was embarassed [embarrassed], although there was property more than sufficient to meet all demands, there was difficulty in converting it into Cash. Under these circumstances, my Father thought it most advisable to remove with his family to Georgia, and place the whole management of his affairs, in my hands, with full powers to sell his property, receive the debts due to him, and pay his debts and finally settle all his Business. This introduced me to a more intimate acquaintance with Courts, Sheriffs, Clerks, and lawyers, from whom I derived much useful knowledge. I now learned the operation and effects, of Courts, Judgments and executions, and the general characters and practice of lawyers --
About this time, I obtained access to a Gentlemans Library that contained a small collection of well chosen books, which gave me the highest gratification. There I first saw Rollins works, Plutarch and Smollett, &c [et cetera] which I seized with delight and read with much pleasure. I soon made myself well acquainted with ancient and modern history, and made some progress in the study of natural philosophy and astronomy. I indulged the most insatiable propensity for reading, and if I could [added text: not ] get such books as I wanted, I would read any I could get. [deleted text: I ] [added text: I spent ] upwards of three years, in settling my Fathers business; and during that period, the American Revolutionary war commenced, and with it commenced my political life -- Although at that time I knew but little of politics, nor had I much studied the principles of free governments, I felt the spirit of an American, and without much investigation of the Justice of her cause, I resolved to defend it. I was among the first, who proposed to raise an Independant [Independent] Company of Infantry, in the town of Hillsborough. About twenty young men came promptly into the measure. We enrolled ourselves, chose our officers, purchased arms and uniforms, and an old British Corporal was employed, to teach us the manual exercise, which we soon acquired
In
1776, the Convention of North Carolina convened at Hillsborough which was composed of the most respectable men of the State -- There, I first learned the principles of our controversy with Great Britain, and began to think [added text: on Politics ] . This Convention Resolved, to raise two Regiments of Continental Troops, and the greatest part of our little Independant [Independent] Company were appointed to officers. I was then offered the Commission of Captain, but other engagements prevented my acceptance.
Having now settled all my Fathers business in North Carolina, in the autumn of
1776, I went to reside in Georgia. There, the principles of the Revolution had begun to operate. The powers of Government had been wrested from the hands of the legitimate Officers, and had desolved [dissolved] in Committees of public safety, appointed by the people. It was now deemed advisable to hold a general convention of the State, for the purpose of forming a Constitution. Although but little acquainted with the people, I was induced to offer as a Candidate, and was elected a member of the Convention, which met in Savannah and formed a Constitution for the future government of the State. By this Constitution, the powers of Legislating were placed in the assembly, and the Executive powers were rested in the Governor and sixteen Counsellors -- The members of assembly were chosen by the people, and the Governor and Counsellors were chosen by the assembly, from their own body -- at the ensuing Election of members of the assembly, I offered as a Candidate for the County of Richmond, and was Elected by an unanimous Vote of the County --
The Legislature convened in Savannah, under the new Constitution, and their first act was to appoint a Governor and sixteen [added text: Executive ] Counsellors. I was chosen a member of that Council -- we had not yet felt the effect of war, nor did we apprehend danger, until we were alarmed at the approach of [unclear text: Genl. [General] Prevost ] with the British Army, from East Florida. He had passed Sunbury, and had penetrated within forty miles of Savannah, spreading terror and devastation -- Every person was called to arms, and as many volunteers as could be enrolled, were required [deleted text: to ] immediately [added text: to ] advance and meet the Enemy. With these volunteers, I marched with full expectation of coming to action; but we were most agreeably dissappointed [disappointed], for the enemy retreated before we came within ten miles of him. This invasion from East Florida, roused the indignation of the Georgians, and they Resolved on retaliation. A plan was formed for attacking St. Augustine, which was the Capital of E [East] Florida. In the Spring of
1778, the military force of the State was collected, which consisted of Militia, and six or eight hundred Continental Troops which were commanded by Genl. [General] Howe. [added text: The militia were commanded by Govr. [Governor] Houstoun ] This force was supposed to be sufficient for this conquest of East Florida; but the whole was defeated not by the sword of the Enemy, but by the dissension of the Governor & General. They contended, which should have the command, until the season for Military operations was too far advanced. The hot weather commenced, and the fever raged in their camp, and destroyed more than a general action. A retreat became necessary, to save the remainder of the troops, of which near one half had been destroyed, or dispersed, without seeing the face of an enemy. Thus terminated an expedition, foolishly planned and worse executed -- We had neither stores of provision, munitions of war, nor money in our Treasury. Our dependance was on paper money, and a large emission was ordered. [deleted text: and ] I was appointed one of the signers of the Bills, which were issued in such quantities, that the money immediately depreciated, and soon became of little value -- I was now appointed to the office of Surveyor General of the State, kept at Savannah, which presented a prospect of great emolument. But I held it only 6 or 8 months. I was attacked with the fever, which compelled me to give up the office, with it all its advantages. I was them appointed one of the Commissioners of Confiscated Estates, and senior Justice for the County of Richmond, which were appointments of more honor, than profit.
In
December 1778, the British fleet and army appeared in Savannah River, approaching the Town; and on the
28th the British landed, attacked and defeated, the American army under the command of General Howe, and took possession of Savannah. The Governor of the State fled to South Carolina, the continental troops were withdrawn, and the State left defenceless [defenseless] . The plundering parties of the enemy ranged through the greatest part of the Country, without opposition. The whole force of the State then consisted of the Militia of the 3 upper counties, which did not, in the whole, exceed 500 men. My Brother commanded the Militia of Richmond County, and determined to check the progress of those parties. He raised about 200 men, and was joined by Col. [Colonel] Twiggs with 50 or 60. They advanced towards Savannah, about 30 Miles below [added text: Augusta ] [deleted text: Augusta, and ] erected the American Standard, and formed their Camp in Burke County, and detached parties of Cavalry to intercept the enemy. The British Commander had now collected his whole force at Savannah, commenced his march towards Augusta, and detached Col. [Colonel] Brown with 3 or 400 Cavalry, to attack us. The plan was so secretly executed, that the enemy had completly [completely] surrounded three fourths of our Camp during the night, and had fixed on the signal of our morning gun, for the commencement of their attack. They instantly advanced on us, drove in our pickets, and poured on us a volley of musketry, before one half of our own men were awake. The consternation was awful, and unexpected. The first panic was irresistible. Many of our men attempted to make a precipitate retreat; but they soon rallied, and commenced the action with much bravery, which continued about an hour, when the enemy retreated and left us masters of the field. This was [added text: the ] first successful military effort, that was made against the British in Georgia, which produced the most salutary effect. It inspired our Militia with courage, and confidence in their prowess. Our numbers were greatly inferior to the enemy. We had, the evening before the action, detached 80 of our men, which reduced us to about 150. The enemy had more than twice that number. Our killed and wounded did not exceed 20. We had reason to believe the loss of the enemy was much greater. This was the first time I had heard the whistling of the Bullets, and found that those terriffic [terrific] messengers of death, loose all their terror in a few minutes. After the action began, the exertion of the faculties, the ardour [ardor] of the mind and ardent desire to destroy the enemy, soon extinguished every sensation of fear. The British army advanced, and [added text: we ] were obliged to retreat. The British commander established his head quarters at Augusta, and took possession of the State. I collected a few men and crossed the Savannah River, and joined General Williamson, who commanded the Militia of South Carolina, and had embodied about 1500 men on the bank of the river opposite to Augusta, within view of the enemy. Genl [General] Lincoln, who commanded the Continental army in South Carolina, had made a movement which indicated an intention to cross the Savannah River about 60 or 80 miles below Augusta, and cut off the retreat of the enemy. By this movement, the British were alarmed, and commenced a rapid retreat towards Savannah. A volunteer detachment of 200 horsemen, proposed to pursue the enemy, and harrass [harass] him on his march. I engaged in that enterprise, but having received information that a British Captain with 50 men were stationed to guard Military stores, we determined to attack him; and marching all night, completely surprised him, and killed and took all but one man who escaped to inform the enemy of their disaster -- The British continued their march to Savannah, and left us in possession of the western part of the state. But another formidable enemy was now approaching, to attack us. Tate, the British agent in the Creek nation, had collected about 700 Indian Warriors, and was marching against us. Our situation was awfully alarming; for the whole of our force did not amount to half their numbers., After making every exertion, we collected about 250 horsemen, and fortunately received a reinforcement of 150 from South Carolina. With this force, we determined to march and meet the enemy, who, we were informed, were encamped on Ogeeche, about twenty five miles distant, and had taken possession of a stockade fort. We collected our men in the evening, and commenced our march with all possible expidition [expedition], and marched all night, in expectation to meet the enemy before sunrise, the next morning. But when we arrived at the fort and their camps, we found the whole abandoned, with marks of precipitation, leaving a part of their provisions and camp utensils. We afterward learned, that this rapid and unexpected retreat, was occasioned by information, that Tate the British agent [added text: had ] received [deleted text: by ] [added text: from ] a Tory, who knew the most direct way through the woods, and had arrived at the Indian Camps, two or three hours before us. [deleted text: and ] [added text: He ] informed them, that we were advancing to attack them, which [illegible text] terror and confusion among the Indians, who rebelled against the authority of Tate, and determined to retreat. They divided into 3 parties; one of their parties fled back to the Creek Nation, and another party went up the Ogeechee, to destroy and plunder the frontier inhabitants; and the third party, consisting of about 70 or 80, marched towards Savannah. We divided our force into two Companies; one Company pursued those Indians who went up the Ogeechee, and overtook and killed one, and dispersed the rest. I pursued the party of Indians who went towards Savannah, with 150 men, and overtook them before sunrise and surprised them in their camps, killed eight and took two prisoners, and some of their camp equipage. Heaven was thus pleased, to preserve the state from the rage of Savages, and the bloody intention of the British agent. His project was defeated, and the awful storm which seemed to threaten general destruction was dissipated, with the loss of only one man -- I was now appointed Lieut. Col. [Lieutenant Colonel] of the Militia of Richmond County, and was kept in almost continual duty, in guarding the frontier, [deleted text: and ] [added text: and ] repelling the Indians and predatory parties of Tories, with whom I frequently had skirmishes --
The Legislature of Georgia had ordered a [deleted text: treaty ] [added text: council ] to be [deleted text: held ] [added text: made ] with the Creek and cherokee Nations of Indians, in order to negotiate, and endeavour [endeavor] to establish a permanent peace with them, and I was appointed one of three Commissioners for that purpose. Information was sent to the Kings, head men and warriors, inviting them to meet us at Augusta, for the purpose of burying the hatchet, and living in friendship. A large number of Indians of all ranks, ages and sex, attended and all our greivances [grievances] were mutually discussed, and we smoked the Calamut [Calumet] of peace with their Kings. and warriors, and gave them presents. [deleted text: and ] [added text: We ] parted in peace and friendship, but it lasted not long, for the British had their agents and emissaries among those Indians, who hired or persuaded them, to raise the hatchet against us, in which they were too successful in cruelly murdering many families of women and children, and destroying and carrying off much property.
In
1779, I was again elected a member of the Legislature. In
January 1780, the Legislature met in augusta, and I was appointed a member of Congress; and in May, I set out for Philadelphia where Congress was then sitting. There I was introduced to the President and members of the most dignified and respectable assembly of Statesmen and Patriots, that perhaps ever adorned a Nation, and directed its operations in the most perilous times. When I looked round in the ancient sages, the selected wisdom of the States, sitting in Council, and deliberating on the most, important national concerns, I was struck with veneration and respect. The destiny of those millions of People, and the existence of the Republic, seemed to be in their hands. Their proceedings were marked with wisdom, Justice and firmness. In the discussion of every question, the most respectful order was preserved, and the opinion of every member was respectfully received, and duly considered - At this time, our political affairs wore a gloomy aspect. The Continental money had depreciated to forty for one, and an effort was actually made, to restore credit, and carry on the operations of war, by emitting paper money, of which one dollar should be estimated and passed, at the value of forty of the old emission. But the project failed; and we had not sufficient supplies for the army, nor money to pay the Soldiers, whose pay was greatly in arrears. Under these pressing exigencies, Congress appointed [deleted text: [illegible text] ] [added text: Robert ] Morris, Financier General of the United States, with full power, to manage all the Revenue. From his credit and exertions, much benefit was derived -- In
May 1780, the British invested and took, Charlestown in South Carolina, and the greatest part of their army were soon after detached under the command of Lord Rawdon, and established their Camp at Camden. The war was thus removed from the Northern, to the Southern States. Congress therefore deemed it necessary, to appoint Genl. [General] Gates Commander in chief of that department, with full powers, to call for the Militia and resources of the Southern States. An army of upwards of 3000 [added text: men ] was raised, consisting of Continental Troops and Militia. They were marched to attack Rawdon, who met and defeated them, near Camden. Gates fled to Hillsborough, about 200 miles, before he stopped to give Congress the melancholy news of his defeat. Congress now requested Genl. [General] Washington to appoint an officer, that he thought best qualified to command the Southern army, and Genl. [General] Green was sent, who successfully attacked the enemy [deleted text: and ] in detail, and drove them back to Charleston --
In the year
1781, Congress received information from their ministers in Europe, that the British were disposed to terminate the war, and had proposed to negociate [negotiate] for peace. At this time, the British had possession of all the Sea Coast and southern part of Georgia, and the state had not been able to exercise the powers of Government, over the other part -- This alarmed the Delegates in Congress from that state. They were apprehensive, that the enemy would offer as peace in the principle, of each power holding all that part of the Country, each had in possession, which would have ruined the State of Georgia. In order to avert that evil, Congress advised the Georgians to make every exertion to establish their Government, and extend their possession of the State, as far as possible. In order to facilitate those measures, the Delegates of Georgia in Congress thought [added text: it ] most advisable [deleted text: to ] immediately [added text: to ] send one of their own members, to make those communications and inform the Georgians, of the necessity of making every exertion to avert the evil -- I was appointed and requested to proceed immediately to Georgia, and advise the citizens, to convene and elect members of the Legislature, and organize Government. But a difficulty arose, from the want of funds to defray the expenses of going to Georgia and establishing the Government -- Congress was disposed to aid us, and passed an order in favor of the Georgia delegates, for $1000 specie. But such was the state of the Treasury, that it required exertion to raise that sum. It was at length procured, and paid to me, and on the
7th of July 1781, I set out from Philadelphia, accompanied by Col. Martin and Major [unclear text: Deraux ], and arrived in Georgia, the
first [added text: of ] September. By the communications I made, Elections were immediately held for members of the Legislature, convened at Augusta. N [Nathan] Brownson was elected Governor, and the other officers of Government were appointed, and I was again appointed a member of Congress
The Governor arranged the Militia of the State, which at that time did not exceed 300 men; parties were detached down the Country, to extend the authority of Government as near to Savannah as practicable -- In
May 1782, I returned to Congress, in Philadelphia, & found the aspect of public affairs more favorable. the King of France had advanced to us $10,000.000 livres, and sent to our assistance Count Rochambeau with 6000 Troops, which united with the American Army under the command of Genl [General] Washington, and soon after [illegible text] the British army in Virginia, under the command of Lord Cornwallis, and captured the whole, consisting of about 8000 men. This was the finishing stroke which placed the Independence of the United States beyond a doubt, and relieved, Congress from those fears [added text: and [illegible text] ] with which they had been long oppressed. Direct proposals were now made by the British for peace, and Plenipotentiaries of both nations met in Paris, and on the [missing text] day of [missing text]
1783 a treaty of peace was signed, which acknowledged in Independence. I soon after returned to Georgia, and a general Election of members of the Legislature was held. throughout the State. I was elected a member for Richmond County. In
January 1784, the assembly met in Savannah and entered in the important business of establishing law, order and government, which had been nearly annihilated. The Citizens who had been robbed and plundered by the enemy, of nearly all their moveable property, now turned their attention to their various occupations and pursuits, for the acquisition of property. I also found it necessary to commence some kind of business for support, for I possessed not much property, nor had I any in expectation, that I did not acquire by my own industry. I therefore determined to commence the practice of [deleted text: the ] law, although I had never spent one hour in the office of an attorney, to prepare for the Business; nor did I know any thing of the practice. But I well understood the general principles of law, and I had acquired a tolerable proficiency in public speaking. I had no difficulty in getting admitted to the Bar, and at the same time [added text: I ] commenced the study and the practice of the Law -- I at first experienced some discouraging difficulties from the want of practical knowledge, but it rather stimulated me to greater exertions. I soon found myself progressing in the knowledge of my profession, and my increasing practice was sufficient evidence of my standing in public estimation, not inferior to the oldest practitioners. My pecuniary prospects were very flattering. About this time, controversy arose between the States of Georgia and South Carolina, relative to territory, which was to be decided by Congress, and I was appointed an agent by the State of Georgia, to advocate her claims before Congress; and I was also appointed a member of Congress for
1786, although I was sensible pecuniary considerations forbade the accepting of those appointments, I was induced to accede to them, and made arrangements to set out for Congress; then sitting in New York, and arrived there in the
3d of May, I found but few members of my former acquaintance then in Congress; an evident change had taken place, the dignity and consequence of that assembly, had greatly diminished. Their former recommendations operated as laws, and gave motion to the great political machine. But, since the peace, it was found that their powers were not sufficient for the Government, and preservation of the union and safety of the States. After various efforts, and resolves, and reccommendations [recommendations] to the states, to vest Congress with more powers, which were rejected by most of the States, it was Resolved by Congress, to call a general convention of Delegates from all the States, for the purpose of taking [deleted text: the subject under ] taking the subject under consideration, and forming a Constitution for the Government of the States, to meet at Philadelphia. The second monday in
May 1787, this Resolution was agreed to, by all the States, and the State of Georgia appointed me a member of the Convention and a member of Congress for that year. At the time appointed for the meeting of the Convention at Philadelphia, a full Representation of all the States convened in the State House, and chose George Washington for their President, and commenced their Business. But they had to encounter incalculable difficulties; the modification of the State Rights, the different interests and diversity of opinions, seemed for some time, to present obstacles that could not be surmounted. After about three weeks' deliberation and debating, the Convention had serious thoughts of adjourning, without doing any thing. All human efforts seemed to fail. Doctr [Doctor] Franklin proposed to appoint a chaplain, and implore divine assistance, but his motion did not prevail. It was an awful an [and] critical moment. If the Convention had adjourned, the dissolution of the Union of the states seemed inevitable. This consideration, no doubt, had its weight in reconciling clashing opinions and interests. It was believed to be of the utmost importance, to concede to different opinions, so far as to endeavour [endeavor] to meet opposition on middle ground, and to form a Constitution that might preserve the union of the States. On that principle, of accommodation, the business progressed; and after about three months' arduous labor, a plan of Constitution was formed, on principles which did not altogether please any body; but it was agreed to be the most expedient, that could be devised, [deleted text: and agreed to be the most expedient that could be devised ] and agreed to. The Constitution was transmitted to Congress, and by Congress, was sent to all the states, for their assent and ratification. The Constitution was soon adopted by most of the States, and they chose their Senators and Representatives agreeably thereto. The State of Georgia was among the first of the States which adopted the Constitution, and appointed me a member of the Senate. The new Congress met in New York the
4th day of March 1789; and that day, the old Congress calmly expired. I left my seat there, and took my new place in the Senate. Perhaps, it is the first time, that a change, or such important Resolution in Government, was ever effected with so much deliberation, and unanimity. Agreeably to the powers vested in the Senators and Representatives, they appointed George Washington President, and he was with much solemnity inaugerated [inaugurated] . Public notice was given of the time and place appointed for that purpose, and a vast concourse of people assembled. The oath of office was administered to the President, by Chancellor Livingston, in the balcony of the City Hall, in the view of many thousands of people, who manifested the highest gratification. The scene was closed with universal acclamations, which with the roaring of cannon and martial music, inspired the most pleasing sensations -- Congress being now organized, proceeded to business; and many important subjects came under their consideration. The funding system now originated, and was much opposed; but one of the most singular and extraordinary propositions that was brought forward, was, a motion to establish titles of nobility, to be conferred in the President members of Congress, and higher officers of Government. This proposition had its advocates and was seriously urged; but fortunately, was rejected. A predatory war was still carried on by the Creek Indians, against the frontier citizens of Georgia, and the Legislature of that State instructed their senators to confer with the President, on the expediency of sending a military force, sufficient to chastise them. But it was the opinion of the President, it would be more advisable to endeavour [endeavor] first to settle the controversy, amicably, with them, by treaty; and he nominated three Commissioners to meet the chief men of the Creek nation, and propose to adjust all differences with them. Two Sloops were chartered, to convey the Commissioners and suite to Savannah, with the goods and presents necessary for the Indians. I felt so much interested in the success of those measures that I determined to accompany the Commissioners. We sailed from New York in
September, and after a boisterous passage, arrived safely in Savannah, and went from thence to the Oconee River, which, at that time, was the boundary line between Georgia and the Creek Indians. We there met a great number of Indians, who appeared to be well disposed to settle all differences, and invited us to meet them in council in their territory, on the south bank of the Oconee river, to drink black drink, and smoke the Calumet of peace with them, which was done, with great formality and apparent friendship; and they accepted our invitation to meet us, the next day, on our territory on the north bank of the river, to enter on the discussion of the principles of a treaty. But, to our great surprise, and dissappointment [disappointment], we found on the next day, that instead of meeting us, the Indians had commenced a retreat. They were at that time, under the influence of McGilvary, a half breed Indian, who was the son of a Scotchman, a trader, who had given him a good education, and prepared him for civil society. But McGilvary preferred a savage life, and fled from his Father to the Creek Indians, and without assuming the character of a warrior or King, became their chief director, in all matters of political importance. After the retreat of McGilvary, the Commissioners had an interview with several of the Indian Kings, who could not inform us, why McGilvary had retreated, but proposed if any of us would go with them, to pursue him and persuade him to return. I then proposed to three other Gentlemen, to pursue McGilvary under the escort of two Indian kings, to ascertain the reason of his retreat, and endeavour [endeavor] to bring him back. But he had marched with so much rapidity, that we did not overtake him, until he had crossed the Okmulgy river, which was more than thirty miles. We arrived about midnight, and were admitted into his tent, but he would not give us any reason why he fled from us, nor would he return. Thus by the obstinacy or wickness [wickedness] of one perfidious savage, the benevolent intentions of the President and Commissioners, were defeated. I then returned to my plantation in Columbia County, and after having made the necessary arrangements, set out for New York to attend [added text: the ] Senate. Congress met in the [missing text] day of
1789, in the classification of the members of [added text: the ] Senate which was done by lot, I was placed in the class which was to continue four years. During the different recesses of Congress; I visited my plantation in Georgia, several times. My time of service in the Senate, having expired in
March, 1793, I removed with my family to Georgia, and being divested of all public cares, I settled on my plantation, and devoted my time to agricultural pursuits. This was a situation, I had many years been anxiously looking for. There, I hoped to find that tranquility and happiness, that could not be found in public life. I had now continued more than sixteen years in public employment. I was eight years a member of the Legislature, and four years a member of the old Congress, and four years a member of the Senate of the United States, and during those periods, the duties of other important offices [illegible text] on me. I was now freed from all public cares and political vexations, and breathed the pure air of leisure and independence; but it was not long until I was again drawn into [added text: the ] political vortex. A circumstance occurred, which roused the indignation and energies of the Georgians. The mania of land speculation had seized the people of that country, and one of the most wicked and corrupt combinations was founded in the Legislature, to sell [added text: to ] a company of speculators, all the unlocated lands of the State, which included [added text: an ] extent of territory, sufficient for a kingdom, and was of incalculable value, for only six or seven hundred thousand Dollars. Several members of the Legislature became purchasers, and others were bribed. These nefarious transactions alarmed the people, who determined to make every Exertion to counteract or annul, the injurious transactions, at the next Legislature, by rejecting those members who voted in the favor of the Yazoo act, as it was then termed. Candidates for the Legislature were selected, of those who were decidedly opposed to the Yazoo fraud. I was then elected to represent the County of Columbia, as a member of the assembly. The Legislature met, in
January, 1795, and passed an act, declaring the said Yazoo Act to be null and void, and cut from their books, and burnt Every Record and document, relative thereto. Although the bribery and corruption of several members of the Legislature was sufficiently proved, and the injustice and injurious consequences were obvious, it became a question rather doubtful, whether a succeeding Legislature had the power to [deleted text: null ] [added text: annul ] or repent, an act founded on such principles. On that question, the public mind was agitated, and the most violent and acrimonious party was created, which will be long remembered by the term Yazoo party. The mischevious [mischievous] consequences of Yazoo act was felt through all the States. The people of Massachusetts and Connecticut, purchased largely of the Yazoo lands, for which the State of Georgia would not admit a title. --
A vacancy now happened in the Senate of the United States of a Senator from Georgia. I offered as candidate for that appointment, and was rejected by the Legislature, which was one of the greatest mortifications, I have ever experienced; It was indeed, the first of the [deleted text: kind ] [added text: kind ] I had met with. [deleted text: notwithstanding I now believe if to be one of the most fortunate events of my life, for it I had obtained that appointment I should have most probably spent the remainder of my days in scorching climate of Georgia under all the accumulating evils of fevers and negro slavery those evidences to human felicity. ]
The Legislature of Georgia now revised the Judiciary system, and divided the State into four Districts, and appointed a Judge to preside in each. I was appointed the Judge of the second district, which I experienced to be a laborious and arduous office; although I held it three years, until my health was greatly impaired, and the health of my family was also declining. I then determined on visiting New York and in
May 1799, I set out with my family for Savannah, where we embarked for New York; and arrived after a passage of ten days. Soon after my arrival, symptoms of the yellow fever were discovered in the City, and many of the Citizens fled for safety, to the Country. Mr. Nicholson took a spacious house on the eastern bank of the East river to which both families removed, where we spent an agreeable summer and so much more healthy and pleasant than I had experienced in Georgia, that I began seriously to think on the expediency of removing my property from thence and residing in this State, and had viewed several houses and lots and lands that were offered for sale and at length agreed in conjunction with Mr. Nicholson to purchase the little farm on Greenwich Lane containing about five acres with all the buildings for which we paid $15000. In the year
1801.
1802 and
1803 &
1804 I was appointed member of the assembly of this State and attended the Legislature in albany three years. In
May 1804 I was appointed Commissioner of Loans, which prevented my attending [deleted text: of ] the Legislature that year, at its commencement; but the important question on the Incorporation of the Merchants Bank was brought into the assembly, and I was urged by the citizens to go to the Legislature and oppose it. I then had the mortification to find, that avarice intrigue and corruption prevailed over virtuous opposition. The Bank was incorporated, the dignity of the Legislature was wounded, and several of its members were charged with bribery. It was now demonstrated, that there was not integrity and virtue in the Representatives of the state sufficient to resist the seducing influence of a large monied institution, and it is to be lamented that no Bank has since been Incorporated, that has not dishonoured [dishonored] the Legislature with base bargaining intrigue and corruption; nor is there any reason to believe, that the same cause will not continue to produce the same effect, so long as the creation of Banks continues to be the object of Legislation --
In
1803, I visited Georgia for the last time and made arrangements for the disposal of my property there, and determined to establish my residence in New York -- In
April 1802 I was appointed Inspector of the States Prison which was an arduous and troublesome office the Institution was then in its infancy, and I was enthusiastically impressed with the humane and beneficial effect of it, if properly administered, although no pay or emolument was annexed to the office. I felt seriously engaged in the duties of it and laboured [labored] to correct and improve the system and I do believe I rendered some benefit to the public -- I held, and I think faithfully exercised, the duties of that office about ten years, until the federal party gained the ascendency [ascendancy] in the council of appointment -- I was then removed from office, in order that federal Inspectors might be appointed, which was one of those party measures to gratify individuals, that was injurious to the public interest --
In the years
1813 and
1814, I was elected alderman of the 8th. Ward when the spirit of party was violent, and the federalists had the majority in the Common Council, which rendered the duties of that office disagreeable to me and, was the cause of my attending but seldom in Council. I was appointed Director of Manhattan Bank, in the year
1804, in which I continued until
1814, when I was appointed President of the City Bank, which I held two years; and was disgusted with the cupidity and partiality of the Directors. They had taken on Discounts, and applied to their own use, more than one third part of the capital of the Bank, and had speculated in the Stock of the Bank, in a manner, which I conceived to be, injurious and unwarrantable by which the interest of the Bank was sacrificed to the avidity of the Directors, against which I remonstrated, and laid before them a Report, which contained statements showing their errors, and pointing out the evils that had resulted, and would continue, if the system was not amended. In doing this, I faithfully discharged what I conceived to be my duty. although I well knew it would displease the directors, against whose interests, and speculations it militated; and the consequence was, they would not reappoint me President -- This event although not unexpected excited some indignation; but the con [added text: s ] cious rectitude of my intentions compensates, and in a retrospective view of the transaction, I have no doubt I enjoy more pleasure on the reflection, than either of those avaricious Directors who opposed me. -- I had drawn up a statement of facts relative to the management of these Directors, with the intention of publishing the whole in order to bring their conduct fully into public view; but on reflection, I was deterred from publishing, because it would tend to diminish the public confidence in the Bank, and injure the Stockholders; for in exposing the errors and avidity of the Directors, it would unavoidably expose the state of the Bank, and that exposure would look rather too much like a breach of confidence and it would appear too much like revenge, which is a principle that, I trust, I shall never be influenced by.
In
1815, the operations of the war and the obstructions of commerce, created difficulty with all the Banks. A great proportion of their Gold and Silver had been drawn from their vaults, and the reflux of specie was so rapid, that it became absolutely necessary to speedily adopt measures to avert the evil -- a Convention of all the Directors of the Banks in this City, was called to take the subject under consideration and it was unanimously agreed to suspend the payment of specie, and issue no more Bank paper until the payment of specie was resumed. A standing Committee of two members from each Bank was appointed to keep the under consideration, and report, from time to time, such measures as might be most proper. I was appointed the chairman of that Committee in which there was great diversity of opinion, on the principles of Banking. I found the subject complex and difficult to fully comprehend, and properly arrange, in such manner as to form in the mind, a well connected system. I applied diligently to to [to] the investigation of the subject, and collected such documents as would give the best, information and I had the vanity to believe, that I understood the subject as well as any of them, and better than the greatest part of the Committee. it was now thought advisable to hold a general Convention, of all the Banks of New York, Philadelphia and Baltimore, and three Bank Representatives were chosen for each City, to meet in Philadelphia, to confer on the subject, and report such measures as would best


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support the general interest. I was appointed one of the Bank Representatives from this City, and met the Convention at Philadelphia, in
July, and also in
January, when I had an opportunity of taking a more extensive view of the Banking systems, and of acquiring some information on the subject But very little public benefit resulted from those Conventions --
In
October 1816, the office of Commissioner of Loans was transferred to the Branch Bank of the United States This year I sustained a dimunition [diminution] of my Revenue amounting to four thousand Dollars -- the Salary as President of the City Bank was $2000 and the Salary and perquisites of the Loan office was $2000 -- It then became necessary to make an estimate of all my property and to arrange my finances in such manner as to make my expenses not exceed my income -- my property real and personal amounted in value to upwards of one hundred thousand Dollars, and I estimated my annual revenue at about six thousand Dollars which I considered quite sufficient to supporting my family in the style I wish to live and leave a balance annually of a few hundred Dollars to be applied to charitable and friendly purposes, for it is my intention to appropriate all my surplus Revenue to those purposes --
Having successfully laboured [labored] many years to accumulate the property which bounteous heaven has pleased to bestow upon me I now acknowledge with thanks and gratitude -- It is enough -- It is not necessary that I should any longer endeavour [endeavor] to increase it, and I conceive it a duty incumbent on me to duly economize in my expenses and endeavour [endeavor] to increase the sum that must be applied to charitable purposes