Ulmer, George (1756-1825) to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.07670 Author/Creator: Ulmer, George (1756-1825) Place Written: Ducktrap, Maine Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 15 November 1801 Pagination: 3 p. : docket ; 24.7 x 18.5 cm. Order a Copy
A lengthy letter of resignation from Ulmer to Knox. Ulmer mentions he was mortified to see Knox returned the letters and certificates Ulmer sent him. States, "it is an evidence that your confidence in me is in a Great measure withdrawn I of course can be no longer serviceable to your interest." Discusses a list of Knox's settlers he made a few years back and the reasons why there might be mistakes. Explains why he drew up the certificates and describes the effort he has put forth to please Knox. Also accuses Knox of charging one settler who was friendly and willing to settle for his lands 20 shillings an acre while only charging those settlers who opposed the surveys and shot at the surveyors 12 to 15 shillings an acre. Comments he was sorry to hear his character suffers among the settlers from Knox not honoring Ulmer's negotiations. Confesses he has made some agreements without Knox's prior approval but says if he had not done more than Knox directed the affairs of Knox's patent would not be in the "pleasing state they are now in." Writes, "I have at all times and by all means in my Power done my utmost to preserve and promote it [character?] without having a view particularly to my private interest, except to injure it - and my desire to serve you sprang from the pure principles of friendship, and not slavish fear - I therefore had not Ought to expect contempt in return - as I will [purpose?] to Continue in the business of settling land in the interior part of the Country and shall probably move there myself, and if my thirteen years services will endure [sic] you to give me a letter of recommendation for that business I shall considerate it a very Great kindness."
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