Knox, Henry (1750-1806) to Thomas Jefferson
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.07513 Author/Creator: Knox, Henry (1750-1806) Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 16 March 1801 Pagination: 4 p. : docket ; 30.5 x 18.2 cm. Order a Copy
A cordial letter welcoming Jefferson to office, and expressing approval of Jefferson's inauguration speech. Appreciates Jefferson's appeal for less partisanship as a means for "cementing more closely our union." Remarks upon the fact that he supported [John] Adams but nevertheless maintains a resepect for and attachment to Jefferson. Signed by Knox with initials.
[draft]
Boston 16 March 1801
My dear Sir
Even if the sincerity and cordiality which dictate this note should fail of giving it any value in yr estimation, yet the consciousness of having performed an impulse of duty will afford me some gratification
I cannot refrain from expressing to you, the heart felt satisfaction I have experienced in perusing your address to the public on the 4th of the present month
The just manner in which you appreciate the motives of the two parties which have divided the opinions and which sometimes have seemed to threaten to divide the territory and government of the country, and the strong incitement, that you display for cementing more closely our union, the essence of our prosperity evince conspicuously at one view your intelligence patriotism and Magnanimity. I rejoice at the early occasion you have taken to give publicity to your sentiments, which in their operation cannot but produce the just support of all true Americans [2] Although my local situation, has prevented any activity in the late contest for the election of a President Yet I was in favor of the continuance of Mr Adams, having always possessed an high opinion of his integrity, learning and love of his country.
I mention this circumstance with freedom in order to guard against the possibility of an idea arising in yr mind that this letter is dictated by motives of duplicity which my soul abhors. The respect and attachment however that I have ever entertained for you enhanced by yr acquaintance and confidence have never been in the least impaired on.
The great extent of our Country[,] the different manners of the respective parts, claim forcibly the superintendence and direction of an enlarged mind to consolidate their interests and affections; and if you should happily effect this much to the desired object, the imperishable fame will be attached to your character -
[3] I hope sincerely that you may experience more satisfaction and less perplexity in the exercise of the high duties committeed to you, than you seem to anticipate and when you chuse to retire that you may receive richly merited approbation similar to that bestowed by a grateful country on the much loved Washington
I am, dear sir
With respectful [illegible]
Your obedient Sert
HK
The President of the US.
[docket]
Boston March 16 1801
To Thomas Jefferson
President of the
US.
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