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At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Jackson, Henry (1747-1809) to Henry Knox

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.05995 Author/Creator: Jackson, Henry (1747-1809) Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 15 December 1793 Pagination: 5 p. : docket ; 24.4 x 19.5 cm. Order a Copy

References Knox's letters of 4 and 7 December. Encloses a letter from William Knox (not included). Says William "mentioned he was unwell and did not feel happy nor contentd that the journey and change of air may be of service which operated on his mind in taking the measure - I believe it was sudden unexpected in him as I have reason to think it was not contemplated until that morning." Believes William is "as helpless as a Child, and unable to provide or take care of himself - you must and ought to take him instantly under your immediate Eye, and keep him in constant and steady employ or you will be chargable with neglecting him, to his great injury, if not ruin - as his present mode of life must and will tend to increase the gloom and melancholy of his mind." Tells Knox that giving William money "is only feeding him with Poison to his own distruction, and is the rock on which he will finally be lost." Stresses that William needs to be employed. Says Joseph Peirce went to William's lodgings and took the papers in his possession. Reports that everyone connected to the Flucker estate was upset about the recent sale, some claiming it was illegal. Talks of the situation with Madame de Leval. Is upset over the amount of land she wants believing it is 2,000 acres more than she deserves. Says Colonel Tyler will send him a report on the situation in Maine soon. Makes reference to notes coming due.

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809
Knox, Henry, 1750-1806

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