Morris, Gouverneur (1752-1816) to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.03692 Author/Creator: Morris, Gouverneur (1752-1816) Place Written: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 1 November 1787 Pagination: 1 p. : address : docket ; 25.8 x 20.1 cm. Order a Copy
Must decline Knox's offer to participate in a business deal. Explains that the need for him to decide on the matter immediately makes him reluctant to agree. Also argues, "[t]o hold a small Share is not worth our while, to hold a large one, say 1/2 or 3/4, might prove inconvenient." Might consider participating if an opportunity arises at a later date. Noted as private. See GLC02437.03686 for Knox's offer to Morris.
Signer of the U.S. Constitution.
Signer of the U.S. Constitution.
[draft]
Philadelphia 1 Novr 1787
Dr Sr
I received in Course yours of the twenty ninth of last month. When last I saw you, I had (for reasons then communicated) [text loss] Idea of prosecuting the Plan in questions: at least for the Present. The Suddenness with which it is now necessary to take a final Determination compels me to decline engaging in it. To hold a small Share is not worth our while, to hold a large one, say 1/2 or 3/4, might prove inconvenient: and although it might be otherwise yet no View of Profit can compensate the Risque of those Inconveniences which result some Times from too eager a Pursuit of it. If it be not now undertaken perhaps at some future Period we may be in Condition to join you in force. If it be now undertaken I most sincerely wish you all possible Success for I am with real Regard.
Dr Knox
yours
Gouv. Morris
P.S. My regards to Mrs Knox
[address]
Private
The Honble Major Genl Knox
Secretary at War
New York
[docket]
Mr G Morris
1 Novr 1787
With Mr. Constable's Complts
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