Knox, Henry (1750-1806) to William Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.00708 Author/Creator: Knox, Henry (1750-1806) Place Written: Valley Forge, Pennsylvania Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 3 June 1778 Pagination: 2 p. ; 33.5 x 21 cm. Order a Copy
Discusses matters of business William is tending to in Boston, including a debt and a petition. Writes, "The Enemy have not yet evacuated Philadelphia but we are in hourly expectation of that event. The whole army is under marching orders as soon as they leave the City." Expects the British to assemble their force at New York City. Reports that Lucy "and the baby" are both well, referring to his wife, and possibly to their two-year-old daughter, also named Lucy. Relates that he has seen "Harry," possibly Colonel Henry Jackson.
[draft]
Camp Valley Forge 3d June 1778.
Dear Brother
I have received your Letter of the 16th and also the two long ones which you mention to have written some time before. I have no doubt but you will use every exertion for our mutual benefit, and indeed much is requisite. The debt you will secure and turn into money, and you will also endeavor to push the matter of the situation.
The Enemy have not yet evacuated Philadelphia but we are in hourly expectation of that event. The whole army is under marching orders as soon as they leave the City. They intend (according to intelligence) to march through the Jersies, from Coopers Ferry to South Amboy, [from] whence they will embark and cross to Staten Island. It is supposd they will assemble their whole Force at New York and be determind by circumstances [2] Lucy is well and the baby - Harry is at Gulph I have seen him but once since he came[.] Give my Love to Colo Lears Mr Jarvis and all friends - tell Colo Sears the enemy are gong to New York, and we shall expect him to come up to our assistance against the Sons of Plunder and rapine[.]
I am Dear Billy
Your affectionately
HKnox
Mr Wm Knox -
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