Gates, Horatio (1728-1806) to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.01764 Author/Creator: Gates, Horatio (1728-1806) Place Written: Vails Gate, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 28 December 1782 Pagination: 1 p. : address : docket ; 23.4 x 17.7 cm. Order a Copy
Sarcastic letter written by Major General Gates to Major General Knox. Says "Chess is intirely at a Stand here; I have many challenges, but no Troops to Act; when a convenient Opportunity Offers, I shall be Obliged to you for the peices that are wanting." Goes on to say "prepare your Great Guns to Mow down Ruffians, for the politicians of the House say, we are to have a plentiful Crop next Summer." Letter has what appears to be water damage at the fold. It has faded Knox's docket. Written from Knox's headquarters at John Ellison's mansion.
Ellisons 28th: Decbr: 1782
Dr. Sir
Chess is intirely at a Stand here; I have many challenges, but no Troops to Act; when a convenient Opportunity Offers, I shall be Obliged to you for the peices [sic] that are wanting. - prepare your Great Guns to Mow down Ruffians, for the politicians of the Hour say, we are to have a plentifull Crop nixt [sic] Summer. - my respectfull Compliments to Mrs: Knox, and your Lovely Family, May Your Christmas's be very many, and all Happy,- I am Dr: Sir
Your affectionate
Humble Servant
Horatio Gates
/ General Knox /
[address leaf]
Honble:
Major General Knox
West Point
[docket]
from General Gates 28 Decr
1782
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