Ellery, William (1727-1820) to George Wanton Ellery
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02300.21 Author/Creator: Ellery, William (1727-1820) Place Written: Newport, Rhode Island Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 15 April 1806 Pagination: 3 p. + addr. + docket 21 x 17 cm Order a Copy
Written to his son at Captain Barney's School, Wickford, Rhode Island. Thanks him for his letter. Is pleased to hear from Mr. Updike that the two volumes of geography have arrived. Wishes that he would read English grammar in his leisure hours: "It will assist you in speaking and writing English correctly, which is an accomplishment. Any honor you may acquire by attention to your studies and conduct, I shall receive a portion of by reflection, and shall by your improvement in useful learning be amply requited for any kindness I have shown you." Adds, "an honest man is the noblest sublunary work of God, and if to this be added piety, his path will be as the shining light which shineth more and more to the perfect day." Docketed by recipient. A Member of the Continental Congress from 1776 until 1785, William Ellery was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. He was Collector of the Port of Newport from 1790 until 1820.
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