Knox, Henry (1750-1806) to John Jay
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.03308 Author/Creator: Knox, Henry (1750-1806) Place Written: Springfield, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter Date: 3 October 1786 Pagination: 1 p. : docket ; 32 x 19.8 cm. Order a Copy
Describes the recent Shays' Rebellion, explaining that Mr. [John] Stagg, the bearer, will provide more details. Writes, "Government has lost ground. Faction desperate faction gains strength hourly - they speak of a military government and embodying troops against the constitution - The numbers what appeared in arms opposed to Law were great - had all the parties which were on the march joined previous to the dispersion of the Malcontents they would have mustered 2000 strong - Government mustered about 900 but These were men of respectable character and great property, compared with their opponents." Knox adds, "Please keep this to yourself."
[draft]
Springfield 3 October 1786 -
My dear Sir
You will have heard the issue of the late serious insurrection at this place. Mr Stagg the bearer will give you particulars - Government has lost ground. Faction desperate faction gains strength hourly - they speak of a military government and embodying troops against the constitution - The numbers what appeared in arms opposed to Law were great - had all the parties which were on the march joined previous to the dispersion of the Malcontents they would have mustered 2000 strong - Government mustered about 900 but These were men of respectable character and great property, compared with their opponents - I shall set out for Boston, immediately and hope to be in New York the latter end of next week
I am Dear Sir
Your affectionate humble
Sert
Please keep this to yourself -
The humble John Jay Esqr
[docket]
To Mr Jay - 3 October
1786
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