Knox, Henry, 1750-1806 to Marquis de Lafayette

Knox references Lafayette's letter from May 5, 1787. Says the letter gave information that was "truly important and evinces that the french nobility possess the true spirit of justice & liberality." Tells him that there are dangers and that he "must not either sleep nor slumber politically." Reports that "Our friend Genl Washington is anxiously engaged in the business of thr forming of the political machine." Says delegates from every state except Rhode Island have met at a constitutional convention for the past two months. Declares, "They are secret in their councils, [conceiving] such great propriety that, the people ought not to see only half the plan at a time." Argues that only time will tell if the document will be as perfect as the occasion calls for, but believes the chances are good because of "the characters who compose the convention." Says that Washington's judgment comes from great deliberation and reflection and that "His attendance in the convention adds in my opinion new lustre to his character - Secure as he was in his fame, he has again committed it to the mercy of events. Nothing but the critical situation of his country would have induced him to so hazardous a conduct - But when its happiness being endangered he disregards all personal considerations." Mentions that new French members were elected to the Society of the Cincinnati. Says arrangements have been made to deal with Major Pierre Charles L'Enfant's situation with the Society's badges.