Knox, Lucy Flucker (ca. 1756-1824) to William Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.00448 Author/Creator: Knox, Lucy Flucker (ca. 1756-1824) Place Written: New Haven, Connecticut Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 20 September 1776 Pagination: 2 p. : address : docket ; 20.8 x 16.4 cm. Order a Copy
Assures William that his brother Henry has not been taken prisoner in the Battle of Harlem Heights (September 16, 1776), despite reports to the contrary. Explains the misunderstanding through an account of the Continental Army's evacuation of New York City. Indicates that she will be coming to Boston.
[draft]
New Haven, September 20, 1776
Dear Billy
Before you receive this you will possibly learn that your brother is a prisoner but don't be frightened - he is not - the story is this - our worthy general by the advice of his council having determined to evacuate N. York had been three days employed on bringing off the army by small detachments together with the artillery and other stores which he effected all to one brigade without the enemy having gained the lest knowledge of the matter - but as soon as they became acquainted with it they landed a great part of their army at Harlem - the brigade of course would have been taken had not your brother who stayed to see the last gun off ordered them in the fort at Ballards hill which stratagem had the desired effect - the enemy thought we had made a stand there and crossing the fields - took another road into the city which our people took the advantage of and joined their main body unhurt - owing to this delay Major Putnam who was of the party but took to his heels reported in writing that the rest were all prisoners - Judge what I felt until it was contradicted - the armys are now both upon York Island within half a mile of each other - but it is said ours will retire to kings bridge in the battle of Monday we had great success but it was (the battle) not general About - fifteen hundred of ours - engaged about an equal number of theirs and drove them two miles wide of their encampment - Our poor creatures want cloaths exceedingly - those that were last in York left all - what they will do I know not - I would write you a long letter but my brain is confused - I am going to York or wherever the army are to see your brother - After which I believe I shall come to Boston upon a visit - as I know not what to do with myself - Lucy is well and fat as a doe - My love to Mrs. Tarviss - tell her I would write her if I could compose myself - Compts. to Mr. Jackson - who will be glad to hear my Harry is well - may god bless you
Lucy Knox
If see any letter in the post office for the Johonnot family take them up they are from Mrs. Pollard
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