Knox, Henry (1750-1806) to George Washington
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.01241 Author/Creator: Knox, Henry (1750-1806) Place Written: Yorktown, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 19 October 1781 Pagination: 1 p. + docket Order a Copy
Indicates that he has received an inaccurate (imprecise) report of the (captured) cannons and mortars at the lines during the siege of Yorktown, which he blames on the confusion there. Thought the report would still be useful, knowing Colonel Tench Tilghman's destination. Has not yet received word of the artillery captured at Gloucester. Tilghman, an aide-de-camp and military secretary to Washington, was on his way to Philadelphia to announce the formal surrender of Lord Cornwallis, which happened that day. See GLC02437.01245 for a related item.
[Draft]
9 oClock, evening of the 19th October 1781
[inserted - different hand: H.K to Washington]
I have just received my dear general an inaccurate report of the Cannon & Mortars which are in Yorks, and which amount to 170. Sixty five of which are brass - The extreme confusion in that place has prevented my officers being more particular at present, but I hope tomorrow to render a more certain account to your Excellency. Knowing Colonel Tilghmans destination I thought even this impatient Sketch might be of use. No course has been received of those at Glocester.
I am with great Respect
& affection Your Excellencys
Obedient Servant
H Knox
His Excely General Washington
[docket]
To His Ex. Gen. Washington
19th Octo. 1781.
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