Knox, William (1756-1795) to Henry Knox
High-resolution images are available to schools and libraries via subscription to American History, 1493-1943. Check to see if your school or library already has a subscription. Or click here for more information. You may also order a pdf of the image from us here.
Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.01270 Author/Creator: Knox, William (1756-1795) Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 29 October 1781 Pagination: 4 p. + addr. + docket Order a Copy
He is leaving for Europe tomorrow on a French frigate commanded by Count De Grasse. Remarks that in his haste the contents of this letter are only things of greatest importance. Discusses leaving his store with Joshua Loring, arranging for a Mr. Pierce to serve as Henry's attorney and leaving important papers with him. William does not know how long his trip will last, but his plans will be affected by the prospects for peace. Mentions business plans to transport hemp and iron. Comments on his funds for the trip, how he raised them, and expected costs. He will be happy to be able to deliver the news of the surrender of Cornwallis at the Battle of Yorktown to acquaintances in Europe.
[Excerpt:]
PS I am doubly happy on sailing at this period as we may possibly be the first to convery the amazing intelligence of the surrender of Ld. Cornwallis and his whole army, wch. we belive to be perfectly true altho' we have not received the news officially yet
Citation Guidelines for Online Resources
The copyright law of the United States (title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Under certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a photocopy or other reproduction. One of these specific conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be “used for any purpose other than private study, scholarship, or research.” If a user makes a request for, or later uses, a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of “fair use,” that user may be liable for copyright infringement. This institution reserves the right to refuse to accept a copying order if, in its judgment, fulfillment of the order would involve violation of copyright law.