Knox, Henry (1750-1806) to Catharine Littlefield Greene and Euphemia Morris Ogden
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.10215 Author/Creator: Knox, Henry (1750-1806) Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 8 November 1788 Pagination: 3 p. : docket ; 37.5 x 23.1 cm. Order a Copy
Two parts. First for Catharine Greene. Apologizes that something may prevent him from seeing her. Hopes she will "accept [his] sincere wishes for your happiness, and the happiness of your dear little family." Tells her that if she ever needs anything to ask him and he will do his best to accomplish it. Mentions her runaway servant, Ham [described in GLC02437.04021 as "molatto."] Second for Euphemia Ogden. Regrets not being able to see and play whist with her due to being "detained here by purpose more disagreeable than the employ [of] several apothecary vials." Wishes her well and that she did not live so far away. Watermarked "C Taylor" and with a hunting horn in a crest and "GR."
Mrs. Catharine Greene was the wife of American Revolutionary War general Nathanael Greene, a mother of five, and noted for being a supporter of inventor Eli Whitney. Mrs. Euphemia Ogden was the wife of Samuel Ogden, who took over the Booneton Iron Works in 1764 from his father. During the Revolutionary War, Ogden provided various iron supplies to the Continental Army. Euphemia Ogden was also the sister of Gouverneur Morris.
[draft]
Boston Nov 8 1788
I am much mortified my dear Madam that my business at this place has been of such a nature as to constrain my stay here so long more especially as I am apprehensive it may prevent my seeing you even at New York previous to your intended departure for the Southward
If you should have [parted] before my arrival I shall exceedingly regret the circumstance But in that case I pray you to accept of my sincere wishes for your happiness, and the happiness of your dear little family
Should it so happen in the [mutation?] of events that I should be able to render you or yours any services I pray you to command then with the freedom, that a sister would do to a brother - for most true it is that I loved our dear departed friend as a brother -
Colonel Wadsworth has written to me concerning the elopement of your servant Ham - I have caused most diligent search to be made for him [2] in this town but I have reason to believe he has not been here
I am Dear Adam with the most
Sincere friendship
Your most obedient Servant
HKnox
Mrs Greene
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