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At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Knox, Henry (1750-1806) to Samuel Shaw and Thomas Randall

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.04073 Author/Creator: Knox, Henry (1750-1806) Place Written: New York, New York Type: Manuscript letter Date: 3 January 1789 Pagination: 5 p. : docket ; 32.4 x 20 cm. Order a Copy

Unsigned. Writes that he received Shaw's letters and enclosures, and was delighted and satisfied to hear of his health and the prospect of advancing his interests. Has no hope that Shaw will receive the letter, but addresses it to him on the "bare possibility" he will receive it, hoping that if he does not, "our dear friend Randall may for whom it is equally intended." Focuses primarily on business matters. Discusses the sale of merchandise Shaw arranged for Knox before he left for China, and describes a transfer of this merchandise from Samuel Ogden because Ogden went out of town. Also mentions the new government and new Constitution of the United States, and declares that when he returns to the country, he will likely find George Washington to be President and John Adams to be Vice President. Provides some information on their family and friends, and also discusses ships traveling to China from Boston. In the hand of William Knox.

Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Shaw, Samuel, 1754-1794
Randall, Thomas, d. 1811
Ogden, Samuel, 1746-1810
Washington, George, 1732-1799
Adams, John, 1735-1826

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