McHenry, James (1753-1816) to S. Smith
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC05715 Author/Creator: McHenry, James (1753-1816) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 8 May 1779 Pagination: 3 p. : docket ; 30.3 x 18.7 cm. Order a Copy
Written by McHenry as a secretary to General George Washington to Colonel Smith. References Smith's previous letter. It appears that Smith is trying to decide if he should leave the army to deal with business affairs. McHenry says he is sure Smith wouldn't leave the army except reluctantly. McHenry then claims he is desirous to stay in the army because he doesn't hold riches to as high a regard as others do. Says "For my own part I shall be prouder in poverty should the war terminate in the happiness of the people, than in any wealth, which I might accumulate from the civil exercise of any profession." Hopes he will excuse his openness and attribute it to friendship. Says "I can see your usefulness in the character of a citizen, where agriculture and trade make a principal part of its happiness." Says on 5 May 1779 about 40 vessels sailed from Sandy Hook with near 4000 troops. Their destination is a secret, but he thinks they are going southward.
Signer of the U.S. Constitution.
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