Documents

A friend in Virginia writes to William Short expressing disappointment at not having heard from him recently, updates him on various local, state and national events, and in a postscript describes an injury he has suffered.

William Short writes to an unknown person and describes events in Europe and Virginia, including his hopes for the abolition of slavery. This incomplete letter is perhaps the first instance of Short expressing his hopes for an end to slavery.

An associate in the Philadelphia firm of Willing, Morris & Swanwick informs William Short that he has been sent a bill of exchange for 4,750 livres tournois, which is all the money received from Benjamin Harrison, Short's financial manager, on his account since his departure for France. 

A physician friend discusses social and political events in Virginia and inquires about William Short adapting to life in France. 

The American Commissioners authorize William Short's mission to The Hague regarding the Treaty of Amity and Commerce between the United States and Prussia. 

Published by Founders Online. 

William Short informs the Prussian emissary of the instructions he has received from the American government to conclude the ratification of the 1785 Treaty of Amity and Commerce between the United States and Prussia. 

The Minister Plenipotentiary for the United States in France asks William Short to become his private secretary.

Published by Founders Online.

A document of William Short's calculations, accounts, and payments in livres tournois of his salary from 24 September 1785 to 24 April 1788. 

A friend in Virginia writes to Short lamenting the irregularity of their correspondence and discussing recent events in the state.

A physician friend of Short's relays information regarding events in Virginia.