Wythe to Richard Henry Lee, 23 February 1785

George Wythe has been asked to be one of the judges to hear the case about a controversy between Massachusetts and New York. He tells Richard Henry Lee that he is going to take it because the hearing will take place in Williamsburg, a convenient place for Wythe since he lives there. Wythe encloses a letter to be sent to the agents of the states to get a short statement of the dispute for Lee to send if he thinks it to be the best course of action. However, if Lee does not think it best, Wythe says he is to destroy it.

"Wythe to R. H. Lee, 23 February 1785, pg 1." Image from The Papers of the Continental Congress, 1774-1789.

Letter text

Page 1

Sir.

I this day received my appointment to be one of the judges of the federal court for hearing and determining the controversy between the states of Massachusetts and New York: and as the place assigned for holding the court is so convenient to me, i cannot decline the office.

If you think it proper in me to desire the agents of the contending parties to furnish me with a short state of the dispute between them, i beg the favour of you, Sir, to forward to them the letter accompanying this otherwise to destroy it.

With profound veneration for the august body, in which you preside, i have the honour to be,

Sir,
your most obedient servant
G. Wythe.
Williamsburg
23 Febr. 1785

His Excellency
Mr Lee president of congress.

Page 2

"Wythe to R. H. Lee, 23 February 1785, pg 2." Image from The Papers of the Continental Congress, 1774-1789.

Letter 23 Febry 1785

Geo. Wythe
Read 18 March 1785. —
Accepting Office of Judge for Fedl. Court —
Mess. the of NYork —

See also

• Richard Henry Lee to Wythe, 28 February 1783
• Charles Thomson to Wythe et al., 21 June 1785