Smith, William Stephens (1755-1816) to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.05251 Author/Creator: Smith, William Stephens (1755-1816) Place Written: New York, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 3 December 1791 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; 22.5 x 18.5 cm. Order a Copy
Has tried to acquire the items Knox asked for, but has been unable to as yet. Relates how he is about to depart for Europe, unhappily, to settle family accounts and protect his family from misfortune. Describes arrangements he is making to prepare for his departure, including making sure that the President is not displeased with him for leaving. Also refers to Mrs. Smith [his wife], Mrs. [Abigail] Adams (who was his mother-in-law), and Mr. [Rufus] King. Sends his respects to Knox's wife.
[draft]
New York December 3d 1791
Dear Sir -
I have received your Letter relative to your two favorites, and have made every exertion in my power to get them, but have not been able to effect it -
The suddeness of my departure for Europe which you will hear of before this reaches you, has put it out of my power to continue my exertions on the subject of your letter, there doubtless will be many speculations on the subject of my departure - to you I can say, that the station I was forced into - was painful to me beyond expression - it may be thought naughty - but my soul is above it - I go my dear Sir, to "take arms against a world of troubles and (if possible) by opposing end them" I have several outstanding family accounts in England to settle, in which if I am successful I shall protect my family from great inconvenience - I have paid all my debts, but those of Gratitude, on which scale I consider you as one of my largest Creditors - Mrs Adams by not attending to what I said to her about the note for 50 Dollars I gave you has sent the Bill yesterday by post - I have requested Mrs Smith to rectify [the] of which you will hear in a few day's - endeavor to prevent the President from being displeased with my departure, I have written to him by Mr. King and flatter myself he will [2] will applaud my decision - It is a [Prussian] stroke [struck: To Ace] Sir - I noticed a wavering in the fron line, & I charge rapidly to secure a conquest, as a soldier I know you will applaud & as a man whose soul is capable of great [expansion] you will wish me well -
With my best regards for Mrs. Knox I am
Dear General Your Obliged & Sincere
friend -
W. S. Smith
The Honb. Genl. Knox
[docket]
Colo Smith 3 Decr
1790 -
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