Gorham, Nathaniel (1738-1796) to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.03826 Author/Creator: Gorham, Nathaniel (1738-1796) Place Written: Charlestown, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 19 March 1788 Pagination: 1 p. : docket ; 30.5 x 19.2 cm. Order a Copy
Discusses Massachusetts politics, primarily the election for governor and lieutenant governor. Replies to a recent letter from Knox. Writes, "I can hardly think myself of consiquence [sic] enough to receive the notice or emolument under the general Government that will be equal to Lieut Governor of this State- however I have discouraged every attempt that would otherways have been made to bring me into view." Mentions that some of their mutual friends want Benjamin Lincoln to be elected lieutenant governor, "provided the business is brought to a point between him & Gen W-" (likely referring to James Warren). Doubts Elbridge Gerry will be able to oust John Hancock as governor. Received papers from Rhode Island, but "such has been our critical situation in the legislature that a number of good Friends" thought it best to suspend their publication until the current session of legislature is over in Massachusetts. Asks Knox to pass this news on to Mr. [Rufus] King.
Signer of the U.S. Constitution.
Gorham was a delegate to the Massachusetts convention that ratified the Federal Constitution in February 1788. Rhode Island first rejected the Constitution in March 1788, and was last to ratify it, in May 1790.
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