Webber, James (fl. 1784-1797) to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.03082 Author/Creator: Webber, James (fl. 1784-1797) Place Written: London, England Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 6 January 1785 Pagination: 4 p. ; 22.6 x 18.7 cm. Order a Copy
Webber, a London merchant and friend of William Knox, reports the details of William's recent episode of mental illness. William had announced his intentions to marry Miss Laurens, "a Daughter of Mr Henry Laurens." Although they were apparently courting, she knew nothing of the proposal. Webber regrettably describes a scene in which William arrived at the Laurens' residence with loaded guns, declaring "God, and Nature had join'd [William and Miss Laurens] together, and no power on Earth should prevent ye Union, and if not accomplish'd ye House and Street should be set on fire in a few days..." William's friends in London seek advice as to whether or not to temporarily confine him, and ask what steps to take for his welfare. Discusses Williams debts and business matters. Congratulates Knox on a newborn child (possibly William Bingham Knox).
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