Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron von (1730-1794) to William North [in French]
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00496.087 Author/Creator: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron von (1730-1794) Place Written: New York, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: circa 16 October 1790 Pagination: 2 p. ; 22.5 x 18.5 cm. Order a Copy
Written by von Steuben in retirement after the Revolution to North as a gentleman farmer in upstate New York. North was von Steuben's aide-de-camp from 1779-1783. Von Steuben invites North to live in New York City for the winter while his house is being built. Says Hamilton is leaving for Philadelphia in three days and that North would be a perfect to take Hamilton's place in his circle of friends. Says the English and Spanish navies do not know if they are at war or peace. Says "To the devil with Politics of Europe and America," and to sow his seed and then come to New York and share a leg of mutton.
New York: October 16th 1790
My dear friend! To make up for my negligence I am taking the opportunity of Mr. Harrison's departure to repeat to you that old song that I love you with all my heart, and that I want more than ever to see you and to embrace you. James has just told me that your house is not as far along as you were hoping it would be, I am annoyed for you, but since you can only move into your new house later on, I am of the opinion that you shouldn't move in at all this winter. That would only expose your health, your wife's health, and that of your child. Finish your house as quickly as you can, but don't move in until next spring.
Once your work is finished, come join us in our good city, it is not as deserted as you think, I even think that our little society will be more agreeable this year than the Great Levis. So, [illegible]. There are some decent people in New York who like you and hold you in high regard. Wherever I dine, the first toast is to the health of Major North. Judge for yourself with what pleasure I then drink my glass of wine. Hamilton leaves for Philadelphia in three days-again there will be a void in my circle of friends. Hurry, to fill with your presence all of the losses that I have suffered.
[2]"The Paques" of England has just returned this morning to the port. The English and Spanish fleets are always at sea without knowing if there will be war or peace. The report runs that France just armed 45 ships to assist Spain, but this report requires confirmation. To the devil with the politics of Europe and America. Finish your house, sow your wheat, use your seed well on all of your lands, and come to eat a good leg of mutton with your good friends in New York.
God bless you my dear Boy, your wife, child and all what belongs to you.
I am with sincere friendship
Your affectionate
Steuben
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