Maunsell, John, fl. 1724-1795 [Copy of an unsigned paper delivered by John Maunsell to Henry Knox]

Marked "Copy," but written in Henry Knox's hand. Page 3 bears an autograph endorsement signed by Henry Knox describing the document as "an unsigned paper delivered by Manor Genl Maunsell in his brittannic Majesty's service to HKnox." The document, apparently written by Maunsell, reports that "Mr. Pitt has authorised me to aquaint the Minister of the United States of America, that Great Britain is anxious to establish and preserve the strictest amity, and friendship with the United States, and that a person properly authorized will shortly be sent out ... to make the necessary arrangements for the above purpose." Maunsell was authorized to transmit to Pitt "the wishes and demands of America." Mentions that President Washington wanted "to come to an understanding with the Court of London, respecting its disposition to enter into commerical arrangements with the United States, on the principles of reciprocal advantages." Notes that General Maunsell, while not diplomatically employed, hopes the United States will be satisfied with the offer of friendship his message brings. See GLC02437.05203 for a clerical copy of this document.