Hull, William (1753-1825) to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.04953 Author/Creator: Hull, William (1753-1825) Place Written: Newton, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 21 May 1791 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; 30.2 x 18.6 cm. Order a Copy
Written by General Hull to Secretary of War Knox. Although "every wish of my heart strongly urges [Hull] again to resume the sword," he must decline Knox's appointment. Says the influence of his friends was decisive. Expresses further sentiments about the appointment and thanks Knox for the "Confidence" he has placed in him.
[draft excerpt]
Altho every wish of my heart strongly urges me again to resume the sword, yet a variety of Considerations which it is unnecessary to trouble you with obliges me to decline it -
In making this determination, I have been more influenced by the opinion of my Friends than by my own judgment -
Contemplating the subject in every point of view in which it can be placed, it is my decided opinion, that I am relinquishing fairer prospects, than I can reasonably expect in any other situation -
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