Pickering, Timothy (1745-1829) to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.06694 Author/Creator: Pickering, Timothy (1745-1829) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 6 April 1796 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; 24.9 x 19.7 cm. Order a Copy
Written from the "Department of State." Pickering informs Knox of his appointment by President George Washington to a commission to determine the Eastern boundary of the United States on the St. Croix River in Maine [as stipulated by Jay's Treaty of November 1794]. Writes that the commission's work will be delayed indefinitely due to complications with the British in those territories, but as soon as those issues are corrected, Knox can begin. Explains the pay rate for Knox's position and estimates how long the job will take. Hopes he will accept the appointment.
Department of State April 6, 1796
Sir,
I have the honor to inform you that the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate, has approved you the commissioner on the part of the U. States for settling their eastern boundary, on the river St. Croix. But the conduct of some people in this country, and the proceedings in the House of Representatives, will undoubtedly occasion a suspension of the business on the party Great-Britain. The preliminary arrangements for the delivery of the posts are at this moment suspended by those proceedings. Of this I have direct information from the British Chargé des Affaires.
Under there circumstances we may suppose that there will a considerable delay in commencing the execution of the article of the treaty relative to St. Croix; unless the British Government should [2] have made a conditional appointment of some gentleman already in America, as a commissioner on their part. As soon as all obstacles are removed, and we have information when it will be practicable to commence the business, timely notice shall be sent to you. The compensation will doubtless be as much as at the rate of £1000. sterling a year; and I have calculated the service to last six months; seeing the Commissioners are first to meet at Halifax. The compensation will commence with the service.
I do not know that the President has written to you: but I am sure he reckons confidently on your accepting this appointment.
I am with great respect & esteem
Sir
Your obt. servant
Timothy Pickering
[docket]
Philadelphia April
6h 1796 -
[strikeout]
The Secretary of State
public [struck: and private]
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