Mount Vernon, January 5, 1799
Sir:
Your letter of the 15th of November, was received by me whilst I was in Philadelphia, on public business; and too closely engaged to pay attention to matters of private concern. Being but lately returned to this place, must be my apology for not informing you sooner, that the land after which you enquire, as son of Captn. John Rootes deceased, was purchased of your father by the Honble. John Page (then of the Council of this State) for, and on my Account, and the full Sum, viz, One hundd pounds (to the best of my recollection) paid for the same, as can be made appear at any time; and the assignment satisfactorily exhibited at the Secretary's Office, on which a warrant issued, and a Patent was granted to Sir Your etc.
[Source: The writings of George Washington from the original manuscript sources 1745-1799, Prepared under the direction of the United States George Washington Bicentennial Commission and published by authority of Congress John C. Fitzpatrick Editor, Volume 37, November 1, 1798-December 13, 1799, United States Government Printing Office, Washington 1940]
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