Greene, Nathanael, 1742-1786 to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.03251 Author/Creator: Greene, Nathanael, 1742-1786 Place Written: Mulberry Grove, Georgia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 12 March 1786 Pagination: 2 p. : address : docket ; 32.1 x 20.2 cm. Order a Copy
General Nathanael Greene writes, "I thank you for the public attention you are paying to my public Trophies; but I have been so embarrassed and perplexed in my private affairs for a long time past which originated in the progress of the War that I have but little spirit or pleasures on such subjects. My family is in distress and I am overwhelmed with difficulties and God knows when or where they will end. I work hard and live poor but I fear all this will not extricate me." Describes some business losses he has suffered, including poor harvest due to wet weather. Mrs. Greene is about to "lay in" to have a baby, and their other children have survived a smallpox inoculation. Comments on "stupid" trade regulations within the United States that he fears will serve as an excuse for Britain to attack them again, and is happy to note that they still have France's protection. Asks Knox to find out how he might get allowance for his back rations from 1777 and how other officers settled their affairs. Mrs. Greene sends her love to Knox and his wife. Next to the docket is a note in Knox's hand which reads: "This is the last letter I ever received from my truly beloved friend Genl Greene."
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