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Warren, Mercy Otis (1728-1814) to Henry Knox

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.03539 Author/Creator: Warren, Mercy Otis (1728-1814) Place Written: Milton, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 2 May 1787 Pagination: 3 p. : docket ; 22.8 x 18.4 cm. Order a Copy

Explains that her son, Winslow Warren, has run into financial troubles and appeals to Knox for help. The attention of either Henry or his brother William Knox is needed to resolve the situation with the creditors. Hopes he or William will attend to this matter soon. Asks his opinion on the political events of the spring of 1787, referring to the Constitutional convention to be held in Philadelphia in May. Comments on her inquiry, "But if you Sir should Judge that inquiries of this nature are not altogether consonnat [sic] to Female Genius. - then tell us the Gradations of theatrical improvment: & any thing that will do honour to the taste the understanding or the heart of a single American. - either as a writer a Hero. a statesman. or an Honest man." Believes that Knox would never think her inquiries "frivolous," and emphasizes her interest in political events, "But till further encouraged: I will check the laudable curiosity of my sex: yet not deny that a full share thereof occupies the bosom of your sincere friend." In a postscript, gives her husband, General Warren's compliments. See GLC02437.03558 for Knox's response to this letter.

Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Warren, Mercy Otis, 1728-1814

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