George Mason to George Washington (April 5, 1785)

Gunston-Hall April 5th. 1785.

DEAR SIR

I have broach'd four or five Hogsheads of Cyder, & filled your Bottles with what we thought the best; tho' the Difference in any of it is hardly distinguishable, all I now have being made of the Maryland Red streak, & managed in the same Manner. I hope it will prove good, tho' my Cyder this year is not so clear & fine, as it generally has been; from what Cause I don't know, unless that I ground my apples last Fall rather later than usual. As the Cyder in the Bottles will not ripen, fit for use, `til late in May, I have also filled a Barrel, out of the same Hhd. which I beg your acceptance of. If you use it out of the barrel, you will find it (as all sweet Cyder is) much more grateful to the Stomack, by having a little Ginger grated upon it.

I beg pardon for having forgot the Water-Melon Seed; & now send it by the Bearer.

I was a good deal alarm'd two or three Days ago, by the Gout in my Stomack; which after giving me a very uneasy Night, has gone off again, as it has done several times this Winter, without getting into my Feet; and until it does, I have little Hopes of recovering a tollerable State of Health; so that, notwithstanding the extream Pain I know a regular Fit must bring with it, I most heartily wish for one.

Mrs. Mason & the Family here join in their Compliments to you, yoru Lady, and Miss Bassett, with Dear Sir Your affecte. & obdt. Sert.

G. MASON