Paine, Thomas, 1737-1809 to Nathanael Greene
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04454 Author/Creator: Paine, Thomas, 1737-1809 Place Written: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 17 October 1780 Pagination: 3 p. : address : docket ; 37.8 x 23.6 cm. Order a Copy PDF Download(s): Download PDF
Begins by stating that he is thankful no one can publish his letters after his death since he does not write any. Discusses the treason of Benedict Arnold and the British spy John Andre. Comments on the capture of Andre and wonders why Andre was not able to escape as he was on horseback and the three Americans on foot. Remarks on Arnold's escape, "But why, if Providence had the management of the whole, did she let Arnold escape. Perhaps to be hung afterwards by the Enemy for some act of traitorship against them. In this case he will have no apology left and all Parties will call him what they now think him, a Villain." Wishes Greene well in his Southern command. States he believes France should assist with 5000 or 6000 men and one million dollars. Notes that he is no longer under attack from enemies, "I once more live in peace and quietness, all my opposers become mute ... " Gives regards to George Washington and sends "the last Crisis." Postscript mentions his verses in answer to William Duer's "Plain Truth", an attack on Paine's "Common Sense." The year is partially obscured.
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