Washington, George, 1732-1799 to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.09372 Author/Creator: Washington, George, 1732-1799 Place Written: New Windsor, New York Type: Manuscript letter signed Date: 10 February 1781 Pagination: 2 p. ; 34.3 x 21.1 cm. Order a Copy
General Washington writes a letter marked "private" to Knox, Chief of Artillery for the Continental Army. Recently consulted the Count de Rochambeau, a French General, and through France's aid, the Continental Army may be able to gain naval superiority in the war. Notes that the Continental Army should begin preparing for the siege of New York. Though applications have been made to the Court of France, it is not possible to ascertain if the French will agree to furnish the arms requested. Estimates the Continental force to be at 20,000 men. Requests that Knox plan for two attacks: against the works on York Island and Long Island (the latter probably to be conducted by the French).
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