Knox, Henry (1750-1806) to Jean Baptiste Gouvion
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.02218 Author/Creator: Knox, Henry (1750-1806) Place Written: West Point, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 1 July 1783 Pagination: 1 p. : docket ; 24.3 x 18.5 cm. Order a Copy
Written by Major General Knox to Colonel Gouvion. Says he was "mortified" that Gouvion did not call on him before leaving. Claims that despite the snub, he "cannot restrain my affection and esteem for you." Asks to be remembered with "pure love," as he will remember him. Wants to hear from him after he arrives in Europe "and you will make me happy"
Gouvion was one of the four French military engineers sent to America upon the request of Congress (the others being Duportail, La Rodière, and de Laumoy). He entered the Continental Army on 8 July 1777 as a major. In November 1777 was given the rank of lieutenant colonel. Along with Duportail, he planned and executed the fortifications at West Point. He also built the redoubt at Verplancks Point. He participated in the Battle of Yorktown, was breveted a colonel in November 1781, and retired from the army in October 1783. Although his service was considered exemplary, little is actually known of his activities in America (see Boatner, Encyclopedia of the American Revolution).
[draft]
West point 1 July 1783
My dear Gouvion I was mortified that you did not call upon me, but notwithstanding I cannot restrain my affection and esteem for you. remember me as I ever shall you with pure love - let me hear from you after you arrive in Europe and you will make me happy
I am your affectionate
HKnox
Colonel Gouvion -
[docket]
Col Gouvion 1 July
1783
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