Olney, Jeremiah, 1749-1812 to Henry Knox

Informs Knox that the Rhode Island state convention in Newport has ratified the United States Constitution and that he encloses a copy (not present). Congratulates Knox on "this happy & important event ... again compleats [sic] the Band of Union & must therefore Relieve Congress from many Serious Embaresments [sic]." Reports that he would have left for New York immediately after the vote but had to remain in Rhode Island to pay out the invalid pensions. Hopes to arrive in New York before the revenue officers are appointed. However, if he cannot arrive before the President begins making his appointments, asks Knox to speak favorably of him in his application to the "Office of Collector for the District of Providence." Mentions that a rival for the position, a Colonel Barton, may already be en route to New York to lobby for the job. Notes in the post-script that he has recently learned that the president of the state convention is opposed to the Constitution. Adds that he is "in Contemplation to keep back the Ratification of the Constitution untill [sic] the Senators go on, which cannot possibly be sooner than the 21st of June next, this is don [sic] with a view if possible, to have the present Anti Revenue officer of the State reappointed -"