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At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Swan, James, 1754-1830 to Henry Knox

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.03321 Author/Creator: Swan, James, 1754-1830 Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 27 October 1786 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; Height: 31.7 cm, Width: 19.3 cm Order a Copy

Writes that he is "agreeably saluted with the news of War being declared against the Indians." Is quite overjoyed at the situation: "I told you in State Street, what my hopes were- little did I think the happy circumstance so near." Would like Knox's advice on "buying or selling in to the Continental funds." Has been very pleased with Knox's advice before and would be happy to have it again. Would like to know "whether to engage actively" in the "present commotions." Seems to be inclined to do it - "My heart is warm for supporting Government" - but is unsure whether he can convince his "charming companion" (perhaps his wife) that he should go. Discusses his recent return from "the islands," which he found to be prosperous, and declares that he is receiving good profits from his business there. Congratulates Knox on the recent addition to his family and sends compliments to Knox's wife Lucy.

Swan, James, 1754-1830
Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Knox, Lucy Flucker, 1756-1824

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