Knox, Henry, 1750-1806 to William Duer

Knox signs with his initials. Knows that Duer understands the "modification of our purchase in Massachusetts yet I confess I wish we could make some definitive arrangement, to enable us to pay for a considerable portion of it that we might be freed from anxiety on that head." Believes that their land is "superior to any other purchase that has been or can be made in the United States, or perhaps in any other part of the world." States that it would better if they could add another million or two [acres], even if they have to pay 15 cents for it. They could then connect their various purchases and defy all interference from other purchasers. Has been collecting materials describing the province of Maine and he will send them shortly. Apologizes for not sending these items sooner, but his recent sickness and the death of his son Marcus prevented him from doing so. Will not rely on the "french [visit]" (possibly a reference to the settlement of Madame de la Val) to help them make payments on the land and is anxious for a plan to secure funding. Was hoping something would have come out of Duer's communications with two friends ("Caznove," possibly Theophile Cazenove, and Colonel William S. Smith). Wants to know if he will be in Philadelphia to help choose directors for the national bank. Praises the "fertility of [Duer's] genius" and the "solidity of [his] judgement."