Knox, Henry (1750-1806) to Thomas Russell
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.10304 Author/Creator: Knox, Henry (1750-1806) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 24 June 1794 Pagination: 1 p. ; 39.7 x 24 cm. Order a Copy
Written as an introductory letter for Mr. Tallerand and Beaumetz of France who are "on a visit to the eastern states ..." Describes them as "two characters eminent in France, for their talents, their virtues, and their rank in society." Notes that "The troubles in their native Country have induced them to seek an asylum here." Watermarked "J Watt & C Patent Copying/Sold by J Woodmason/London." Letterpress copy.
Tallerand most likely refers to Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord, Prince de Benevente (otherwise known as just Talleyrand) the French foreign minister. He tried to bribe American commissioners who were seeking a negotiated settlement to disputes between France and the United States. This attempt, called the XYZ affair, resulted in a quasiwar with France in 1798. Beaumetz is most likely Bon-Albert Briois de Beaumetz (also spelled "Beaumez"), travelling companion of Talleyrand and former President of the French National Constituent Assembly.
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