Lafayette, Marie Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert Du Motier, marquis de (1757-1834) to Arthur St. Clair
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03898 Author/Creator: Lafayette, Marie Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert Du Motier, marquis de (1757-1834) Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 9 January 1779 Pagination: 1 p. : address : docket ; free frank ; 23.6 x 19.5 cm. Order a Copy
Discusses Major General St. Clair's court martial and acquittal. St. Clair was court martialled in 1778 for evacuating Fort Ticonderoga, without a fight against the superior British forces in 1777. Written aboard the ship Alliance off Boston.
on Board of Alliance
off Boston 9 January 1779
Dear Sir
I have receiv'd the letter you have honor'd me with, and most heartily thank you for it, and for the sending of the proceedings of your Court Martial - I hope I need not tell you how much my heart was interested in any thing which happened to you, and how much I Rejoic'd no[t] that you were Acquitted, but that at length your Conduct was examin'd - my own sentiments d'int want this confirmation for admiring your behavior and your talents, but I sincerely give joy to your Country, that notwithstanding all Cabals, due justice is at last pay'd to such a citizen and soldier as you are - your justification will be duly known in France as soon as I arrive there.
Farwell, My dear sir, don't forget me and Believe Me with an equal esteem, Regard and friendship
Your affectionate
Lafayette
I wish you could come to see me in France, and Receiving you there would be a true happiness for me
[address leaf]
The honorable
Major General St. Clair
at head quarters
Lafayette
[docket]
Marquis Lafayette
Jany. 9th 1779
Private
on board the Alliance
off of Boston -
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