Waldo, Jonathan (fl. 1721-1779) to William Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.00493 Author/Creator: Waldo, Jonathan (fl. 1721-1779) Place Written: Salem, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 6 December 1776 Pagination: 4 p. ; 21.4 x 16.5 cm. Order a Copy
Speaks of the importance of friendship and the value of his friendship with Knox. Promises to purchase goods for Henry Knox. Inquires as to how the "independant company" is faring in Boston. States that he was drafted into the continental army but got out of it by paying a fine of ten pounds. "Political affairs seem to wear a gloomy appearance at present," and he worries about the news he has received that Howe is in Philadelphia and the Congress is moving to Baltimore. Howe was not in Philadelphia at the time and the Congress would not flee to Baltimore until the next week.
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"…I assure you that I have ever esteemd it as a valuable acquisition to have a Friend in the
Person of Mr Knox, and shall ever continue to cultivate the pleasurable Sentiments of Friendship, while you indulge me with a mutual Return what is Life without a Friend, it is certainly (by a Person who is professed of a tolerable Share of Sensitivity) note worth professing….[3] If you should have any important News in Boston pray send me if you have Leisure.
I should be glad to hear how the independent Company goes on in Boston, and whether you are going to the Southward soon. I was this Week draughted out to serve as common Soldier or Surgeons mate in the Continental Army, but was excused by paying a Fine of £10 [illegible] our Political Affairs sum to wear a Gloomy Appearance at present whale think you of the Times Billy We have the melancholy News that London Genl How are in Philadelphia tents hope tis without Town [illegible], also that the Congress are removed to Baltimore…"
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