Lincoln, Benjamin (1733-1810) to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.02319 Author/Creator: Lincoln, Benjamin (1733-1810) Place Written: Princeton, New Jersey Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 23 July 1783 Pagination: 2 p. : address : docket : free frank ; 30.2 x 18.3 cm. Order a Copy
Written by Secretary of War Lincoln to Major General Knox. References Knox's letter of 15 July, which referred to a plan for an arsenal [at West Point?]. Reports that as the official peace treaty has now arrived, they may not have the help of "the three years men in building the magazines." Says they should hire common laborers, as it will be cheaper than keeping those troops in the army. Says he will be able to give more information in a few days when Congress makes a decision on the magazines. Expresses that Knox's plan for the arsenal was "elegant," but does not expect an arsenal based on his design will be built anytime soon. Will be attentive to the establishment of a company of armorers, but says money is scarce. Free frank signed "On public service/B. Lincoln.
Princetown July 23 1783
Sir
I have been honored with your favor of the 15th. and with the plan of an arsenal referred to in your letter
As the definitive treaty is now arrived we may not expect the aid of the three years men [inserted: in building the magazines] or troops, for to keep them up as such would cost the United States much more than to hire labourers in the common way - thus matters must rest for a few days untill Congress shall come to their final determinations respecting the establishment of magazines and the mode to be adopted in erecting them -
The plan you sent me is elegant indeed - I wish we had it in our power to construct arsenal on that design but this I do not expect will soon be the case -
What can be done to forward [2] the magazines, to be erected on the point, I wish your attention to - However from the present State of our affairs I think little can be done or expected from our best exertions -
I shall be attentive to the establishment of a company of Armourers but without money we cannot go any great lengths -
The moment matters are so arranged by Congress as to enable us to [proced] I will give you the earliest notice of it -
I have the honor to
be Dr Sir with the
highest esteem
your obedient Sert
B Lincoln
Hon Genl Knox
[address leaf]
Hon Maj General Knox
B Lincoln West Point
[docket]
From Genl Lincoln 23 July
1783
[free frank]
On public service
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