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Scollay, William, 1756-? to William Knox

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.00690 Author/Creator: Scollay, William, 1756-? Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: January 14, 1778 Pagination: 3 p. : docket ; Height: 23 cm, Width: 19 cm Order a Copy

Possibly written to William Knox, Henry Knox's brother. Colonel Scollay expresses joy "that the circumstance of settleing [sic] a little delicate matter, whether we should continue the Friendship that has so long & uninterreptedly subsisted between us, or obliterate it by a total annihilation of all intercourse, is now I hope brought to such a point as will effectually cement and perpetuate our friendly Connection." Explains that his previous congratulation of General Horatio Gates, who defeated John Burgoyne in the north, was not meant to undermine the success of the Army of the Southern Department. Has been sick with "a violent Diarrhea." Discusses problems caused by Burgoyne's soldiers in Boston, asserting, "...if the troops are not soon removed the consequences will I fear be very fatal." Reports that militia regiments are being raised to garrison the area surrounding Boston against the arrival of the British fleet coming to pick up Burgoyne and his men. Hopes [William] will soon travel to Boston.

Scollay, William, 1756-?
Knox, William, 1756-1795
Burgoyne, John, 1722-1792
Gates, Horatio, 1727-1806

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