Knox, Henry (1750-1806) to Benjamin Lincoln
High-resolution images are available to schools and libraries via subscription to American History, 1493-1943. Check to see if your school or library already has a subscription. Or click here for more information. You may also order a pdf of the image from us here.
Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.03446 Author/Creator: Knox, Henry (1750-1806) Place Written: s.l. Type: Manuscript letter Date: 9 February 1787 Pagination: 1 p. ; 22.8 x 18.8 cm. Order a Copy
Later copy. Written from the "War Office," likely in New York City. Writes that the bearer, Major [William] North, "will inform you of an intended disposition of some of the federal troops for the protection of the stores of the United States at Springfield." Writes that the work of these troops must be restricted to "securing the property of the United States." Asks him for his opinion on "what force (if any) will be an adequate protection to the Arsenal and Magazine."
[draft]
War Office 9th February 1787
Lincoln from Knox
Sir
Major North the bearer will inform you of an intended disposition of some of the federal troops for the protection of the stores of the United States at Springfield. This measure is proposed as perfectly subordinate to your [arrangements], as I rely entirely on the government of Massachusetts and you, for an efficient protection during the existence of the present commotions or the immediate consequences thereof.
You will please to observe that the federal troops who may be stationed at Springfield must be restricted to the single point of securing the property of the United States.
I shall be exceedingly obliged to you previous to the issue of your present operations to transmit me your opinion what force (if any) will be an adequate protection to the Arsenal and Magazine. A variety of circumstances [2] may be necessary to be combined, which from your present situation, and your extensive knowledge you may be better able to do than any other person. Critically situated as the stores are I experience great anxiety for their safety which together with the importance of the subject will I hope plead my excuse for the trouble I may occasion you.
I have the honor to be Sir
With the highest respect
Your most obedient
humble Servant
HKnox
The Honorable Major General Lincoln
Citation Guidelines for Online Resources
The copyright law of the United States (title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Under certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a photocopy or other reproduction. One of these specific conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be “used for any purpose other than private study, scholarship, or research.” If a user makes a request for, or later uses, a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of “fair use,” that user may be liable for copyright infringement. This institution reserves the right to refuse to accept a copying order if, in its judgment, fulfillment of the order would involve violation of copyright law.