Knox, Henry (1750-1806) [Knox's working draft of opinion delivered to his Excellency General Washington]
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.00778 Author/Creator: Knox, Henry (1750-1806) Place Written: West Point, New York Type: Autograph manuscript Date: 27 July 1779 Pagination: 7 p. : docket ; 31.2 x 20 cm. Order a Copy
Knox answers the question of "the position that it will be proper for our Army to take, on the Question whether any and what offensive measures can with propriety be pursued at present, and of the line of Conduct necessary for us to pursue under the circumstances ... " Asserts that the caution of the British suggests they are expecting reinforcements. Discusses strategic positioning and the possibility of enemy movement along the Hudson River. Mentions Verplanck's Point. In closing, writes, "Unless the Enemy receive a large reinforcement their operations will be pretty much [confind?]... this River, [Connecticut] & New Jersey, will probably be the Theatre for this Campaign." Declares that the protection of the Hudson River should be the Continental Army's first priority, while protecting Connecticut and New Jersey should be their second. Expects that a French fleet may also confine British operations. Title and date from docket. Pages one-four are separate from pages five-seven. Pages five-seven were previously housed separately, and a pencil note on page five discusses archival history. The note is signed by John S. H. Fogg 25 March 1879.
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