Knox, Henry (1750-1806) to William North
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.03531 Author/Creator: Knox, Henry (1750-1806) Place Written: New York, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 19 April 1787 Pagination: 3 p. : docket ; 31.8 x 20.7 cm. Order a Copy
Discusses Congress's decision to reduce the troops and states, "I feel most sensibly for the situation of the officers." In relation to North's resignation as Inspector General, states that he did not forward it on and that if North desires, he can probably resume the duties of that post (see GLC02437.03528 and .03495). Comments that Colonel Hull wrote to him about the issue with North's relative rank but believes it is something the state must decide.
[draft]
New York 19 April 1787
My dear Sir
I received by the last post your favor of the 31st ultimo, and thank you for the information therein contained.
Previously to your departure from this city you were well impressed with the sentiments of many gentlemen in Congress, respecting the troops voted in October. You therefore will not be astonished at the result. Indeed it [struck: is] was evident to me for a long period past, that as the contracts were rejected by implication that the troops were not to be retained
I feel most sensibly for the situation of the officers.
As the disposition of Congress has been respecting the troops I did not forward your resignation of the Inspectorship [2] although you seemed to entirely decline [struck: to] why therein - As the reduction has taken place I am uncertain how far Congress would be disposed to a new appointment - But if it should be your desire I am persuaded you might again resume the functions of that office -
Respecting your relative rank - Colonel Hull wrote to me on the subject - In answer to which after considering the [struck: subject] [inserted: affair] fully informed him, in substance, "that I could not consider myself as authorized to decide on the subject as it was a matter in my opinion resting entirely with the State - That the right of appointment [inserted: and arrangement in the past instance] being in the state it was incumbent on the authority there[struck: fore][inserted: of] to declare who were senior or who junior" - [strikeout]
[struck: But in the present case] But as the troops are discharged so entirely, any settlement of this matter will probably be considered as unnecessary
I shall [inserted: always] feel a peculiar satisfaction [struck: at my have] in having the ability to serve your interests [3] and [struck: I only] I lament that the poverty of the union has prevented the establishment voted in October -
I am my dear sir
Your affectionate
humble svt
H Knox
[docket]
drafts to Major
North [11] April
1787
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