Langdon, Henry Sherburne (fl. 1776) to Woodbury Langdon
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01412.59 Author/Creator: Langdon, Henry Sherburne (fl. 1776) Place Written: Portsmouth, New Hampshire Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 12 February 1776 Pagination: 1 p. ; 25.8 x 19 cm. Order a Copy
Written by the ten-year-old son of Woodbury Langdon. Woodbury was elected to the New Hampshire assembly in 1774-1775, but then spent the next two years in England trying to recover a large sum he invested there. This letter was sent to England. Henry says that Doctor Brackett asked him to write and to ask for a watch, laced hat, sword, and pistol. Says he has been a good boy, attended school, minded his books, and been good to his mother, brothers, and sisters. Tells his father that he has a new little sister since he left. Says he is looking forward to seeing him. Signs his name "Henry Shurborn Langdon." Pencil note below dateline says "10 years old." Upon Woodbury's return, he was elected to the Continental Congress. Woodbury's brother and Henry's uncle was John Langdon, a member of the Continental Congress and future President of New Hampshire and U.S. Senator.
Portsmo. February 12th. 1776
Dear & honoured Papa 10 years old
Doctor Bracknett has jest desiered me to write you - he says if I [inserted: do] [struck: will] you will bring me home, a watch, laced-Hat, Sword & Pistols - I have endeavored to be a good boy ever since you have been gone, have attended School, & minded my Book my dear Mamma, & Brother, & Sisters are well I have a fine Little-Sister since you have been gone - I want to see you much, hope it wont be long before I shall have that pleasure - it will afford the greatest happiness to your most dutifull son
Henry Thurborn Landgon
Woodbury Landgon Esq:r
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