From George Washington to Henry Knox, 16 December 1782

The appearance of the Weather, reminds me of the use of a Sleigh; I beg to be informed therefore, if the one I talked to you about the other day can, without much inconvenience, be made immediately? In that case I should be glad to have it set ab[t]. If it cannot, I should be glad to know it that I may look out elsewhere as I find, upon enquiry, that the Qr Mr Genl carried my old one to Philadelphia last Winter, & has none to supply its place.

If you make me a Sleigh—Quaere upon Philosophical, Mechanical, or practical principles, is it best to have the Sliders (excepting always the curve in front) a little circular, or quite straight? The longer the bearing the greater the friction—the shorter, the weight is confined to a smaller space of the Sliders, and consequently the compressure greater; is a part in one case, bears what the whole does in the other: which of these is best, you may determine. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt