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Sayre, Stephen (1736-1818) to Henry Knox

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.04602 Author/Creator: Sayre, Stephen (1736-1818) Place Written: London, England Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 10 May 1790 Pagination: 3 p. ; 23 x 18.8 cm.

Summary of Content: Expresses surprise at Knox's lack of a reply to a mutual friend (unnamed, but Sayre may be referring to William Duer, whom he discusses throughout the letter). Reports business difficulties with Duer, declaring, "Mr. Duer will not deny his having made a most solemn agreement, as a man of honor, to act with me, for our equal benefit." Duer has not, apparently, done justice to this agreement. Hopes for Knox's help in encouraging Duer to contribute to the project, by securing the appropriate business contracts to let Sayre continue his work in England. Also advises Knox to have the government send a consul to England "immediately [as] Americans have no protection from press gangs, or in any other way." Reports being harassed, himself. Hopes to hear back from Knox soon.

People: Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Sayre, Stephen, 1736-1818
Duer, William, 1747-1799

Historical Era: The New Nation, 1783-1815

Subjects: Revolutionary War GeneralFinanceDebtContractGlobal History and US Foreign PolicyGlobal History and US Foreign PolicyGovernment and CivicsDiplomacyImpressmentMaritimeNavy

Sub Era: The Early Republic

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