Shaw, Samuel (1754-1794) to William Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.00858 Author/Creator: Shaw, Samuel (1754-1794) Place Written: Bergen County, New Jersey Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 13 November 1780 Pagination: 2 p. : address : docket ; 20.6 x 16.8 cm. Order a Copy
Congratulates William Knox on returning from Europe safely and allaying the fears of Henry and Lucy Knox. Relates the latest military affairs, such as the surrender of Charleston to the British. Mentions that Henry expects William to spend some time with their family at the army's winter quarters.
[Draft]
Camp in Bergen County,
13 Nov 1780
My dear Sir,
It is with no small degree of pleasure I congratulate you on your return from Europe. My regard for you, the hazard attending your voyage - and the anxiety of your good friends, your Brother and Sister, on your account, renders your safe arrival doubly interesting. I hope the tour has been agreeable, and fully answerable to your expectations.
No very material military transactions has taken place since your departure, excepting the surrender of Charlestown and the successes of the enemy in that quarter, consequent upon that unfortunate affair. By the last advices, the tide seems to be turning in our favor - I wish it may increase and strengthen.
We are now at the close of an inactive cam-[2] campaign, during which our illustrious Commander in Chief has repeatedly thrown down the glove to his antagonist Sir Harry, which the Knight has as often declined accepting - A few days we supposed will take us to winter quarters - the destination is not yet known - if in Jersey, they cannot fail of being agreeable.
Your Brother has intimated his expectation of having your company a little while the ensuing winter. Whatever happiness our situation may afford, it will be capable of much improvement from your visit. In addition to other amusements, you may have the pratile of two as fine children as ever the sun shone on. Your Neice is a most charming bud - and Hal, a dear little fellow, promises everyhing.
Adieu, my dear friend - believe me affectionately yours
SShaw
Mr. W. Knox
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