Gardiner, Catherine, fl. 1786-1787 to Henry Knox

Written from "Newport." Explains that at the beginning of the war, Knox applied to the Provincial Congress in Massachusetts to exchange furniture with Gardiner's Loyalist aunt and uncle Barnes, Knox's furniture being in Boston. Due to poor communication, the Barneses did not know that this exchange was happening until they arrived in England. They were upset because they had to lay out substantial sums for the move, and apparently could have used money from the furniture (either their set or Knox's). Further, all of Knox's furniture was left in the particular care of Mrs. Flucker, his mother-in-law. Politely asks for compensation on behalf of her aunt and uncle, declaring that she is sure that just because of differing political beliefs, he would not slight worthy individuals who have been wronged. Sends compliments to Lucy and relates that before Lucy's mother died, she spent time in England with Gardiner's father. A second letter dated 14 March 1787 relates that she has not heard from him, so she included the original letter. She asks him to reply so she might write back to her aunt, who has recently inquired as to the status of her request.