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Knox, Henry, 1750-1806 to Marquis de Lafayette

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.02166 Author/Creator: Knox, Henry, 1750-1806 Place Written: West Point, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: June 16, 1783 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; Height: 34.3 cm, Width: 22.7 cm Order a Copy

Knox references "several" letters he received from Lafayette. Says his brother William is indebted to Lafayette for all the kindness shown to him. William asked that it be acknowledged. Goes on to say "America is infinitely indebted to you for your assistance, in the moment of her deepest distress, and from thence up to the present auspicious period - She recognizes the favors she has received with an unbounded attachment to you." Says he will personally remember "the pleasures of your friendship with the ardor of a lover." Says Lafayette's godson Harry will be taught the same. Believes the sentiment for a "Government unfettered by local or state policy" does not exist, but that the Americans will be a "united people." Predicts "Our affection for France will be perpetual." Says that Colonel Gouvion will inform him of the founding of the Society of the Cincinnati, which will involve many French officers.

Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Lafayette, Marie Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert Du Motier, marquis de, 1757-1834
Knox, William, 1756-1795
Gouvion, Jean Baptiste, 1747-1792

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