Williams, Jonathan, 1750-1815 to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.04961 Author/Creator: Williams, Jonathan, 1750-1815 Place Written: Richmond, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 27 May 1791 Pagination: 4 p. : Height: 33.4 cm, Width: 20 cm Order a Copy
Written by Williams to Secretary of War Knox. References Knox's letter of 18 May, which returned Colonel Bradford's letter. Sends his answer to Knox (not present) and asks him to pass it along to Bradford. Is not surprised recruitment is slow in the East because "they feel less irritated against the Indians, and are less disposed for that sort of desultory war." Says people in Virginia will not join the expedition westward because they believe the Indians will not enter into a decisive battle. Eloquently states why people seek glory in war and recoil from unopposed depredation. Mentions plans to go in about six weeks to "spend the hot weather over the mountains" in order to study and relax. Speaks about his future domestic and professional possibilities. Seems to be indirectly asking Knox for his assistance in getting a government position. Asks Knox how "the Bank" (First Bank of the U.S., chartered earlier that year) goes, saying "I should not be displeased if I were to be chosen, which is somewhat like saying I should not be displeased at drawing a certain prize in a Lottery, for the one is as improbable as the other."
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