Knox, Henry (1750-1806) to Elbridge Gerry
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.03352 Author/Creator: Knox, Henry (1750-1806) Place Written: New York, New York Type: Manuscript letter Date: 26 November 1786 Pagination: 1 p. : docket ; 32.1 x 20. Order a Copy
Later copy of GLC02437.03353. Across the top is a note stating that this letter was copied by Townsend Ward of Philadelphia and the copy was received 16 December 1857. Writes that he and Mr. [Samuel] Osgood are investigating any openings in the public offices in New York, but have found none. Writes, "My brother whose resignation I hinted to you was possible, has decided to stay where he is. Indeed in the present state of commerce he can have no other prospects. Mr. Osgood and myself, will keep this object constantly in view, and in case of any vacancies or appointments, we shall use our utmost interest on the occasion. In respect to any vacancy under my direction, I shall consider it, at the refusal of your brother. Mr. [possibly Rufus] King has gone to Hartford, so that there is not now, at this place, a single member of Congress from New England. Nor are there a sufficient number of members from the respective states to form a Congress, but it is expected there will be soon." Adds that he and Mrs. Knox send their love to Mrs. Gerry and her sister.
[draft]
[inserted in different hand: Copied by Townsend Ward city of Philad. Recd Dec. 16 1857]
(Copy)
New York Novr. 26 1786
My dear Sir,
I received your favor of the 12th instant, which I have delayed answering until now in hopes of learning of some vacancies in the public offices here. Our common friend Mr. Osgood has also been enquiring with the same view, but there are none at present.
My brother whose resignation I hinted to you was possible, has decided to stay where he is. Indeed in the present state of commerce he can have no other prospects. Mr. Osgood and myself, will keep this object constantly in view, and in case of any vacancies or appointments, we shall use our utmost interest on the occasion. In respect to any vacancy under my direction, I shall consider it, at the refusal of your brother.
Mr. King has gone to Hartford, so that there is not now, at this place, a single member of Congress from New England. Nor are there a sufficient number of members from the respective states to form a Congress, but it is expected there will be soon.
Mrs. Knox joins with me in presenting our respectful compliments to Mrs. Gerry, and her amiable sister.
I am my dear sir,
With the greatest attachment,
Yr. very humble servant
H. Knox
The hon. Mr. Gerry
[docket]
Copy from original Mss.
Letter of Gen. Knox, in
Possession of
Geo: M. Conarroe
Philada. Dec 11/57
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