Knox, William (1756-1795) to Lucy Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.01427 Author/Creator: Knox, William (1756-1795) Place Written: Rochefort, France Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 23 May 1782 Pagination: 3 p. : address : docket ; 22.4 x 18.8 cm. Order a Copy
Includes two letters, one addressed to Mrs. Lucy Knox, and one to her daughter, Miss Lucy Knox. In the first letter, to Mrs. Knox, he comments that he has tried to find out information about her family but was unable to; if he is able to visit England, he will try again there. Declares that he sent along a variety of gifts for herself and Miss Lucy, including hats and sweet meats. Comments that General Lafayette might also travel on the ship which is taking the present letter and the gifts. Mentions that Lafayette is "elevated above I may venture to say all the young noblemen in the kingdom" and has been paid particular attention by the royal family, the ministers, the nobility, and the populace. Explains that Lafayette's wife and family are most agreeable. Also declares that Lafayette has been able to change the opinion of those in his circle about the American cause and American people themselves, and provides an anecdote to show that well-informed people have inaccurate notions about Americans. In the second letter, to Miss Lucy, he explains that he flatters himself to think she is advanced enough in her studies that she can read this letter and write back. Tells her not to be bashful and to let people see her pretty face; suggests, however, that since she is a young lady now, and at boarding school, she may have outgrown her bashfulness. Encourages her to "[a]ccept a hatt & cap from your uncle to adorn your already pretty person, and be assured that after your papa & mama nobody loves you so well" as he does.
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