Knox, Henry, 1750-1806 to Benjamin Lincoln
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.00783 Author/Creator: Knox, Henry, 1750-1806 Place Written: West Point, New York Type: Letter Date: 28 September 1779 Pagination: 3 p. : Height: 23 cm, Width: 18.7 cm Order a Copy
Later copy. Expresses happiness in hearing of the British evacuation of South Carolina, which Knox attributes to Lincoln's attack on the British in the Battle of Stono Ferry, 20 June 1779, (there is evidence that the British had previous plans to evacuate the area). Informs Lincoln that some British troops are currently embarking from New York. Writes, "The Enemy as well in Europe as in America seemed to have formed some very high hopes of obtaining all South Carolina the present Campaign. The chagrin at the failure will be proportionate. The European intelligence is extremely flattering and the effects of which we hope will speedily produce the object of the War- viz, Peace Liberty and Safety ... " Predicts that the Count D'Estaing, leading a French fleet, operates off of the coast near Lincoln's location (possibly Savannah, Georgia). Asserts that D'Estaing is "paying a visit to your neighbor Sir James Wallace," a British naval commander. Discusses the framing of the Constitution: "Our Countrymen are forming a Constitution which is to be submitted to the people for their consideration- I think Mr. John Adams arrived in good time to assist in this important business." In a post script, mentions the failed Penobscot Expedition.
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