Washington, George, 1732-1799 to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.09405 Author/Creator: Washington, George, 1732-1799 Place Written: Mount Vernon, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 28 February 1785 Pagination: 4 p. : docket ; Height: 30.8 cm, Width: 18.8 cm Order a Copy
Washington encloses letters "under flying Seals" to the Count de Rochambeau and the Marquis de Chastellux "introductory of Mr. Swan." Also includes certificates for Lieutenants Seaver and Henley (no documents included). Discusses suspending a building project in Alexandria, Virginia as his fiances were "not equal to the undertaking." Also discusses the use of stone versus oyster shell lime. Refers to laws passed by the Virginia and Maryland Assemblies regarding the improvement of navigation on the states' rivers. Virginia also passed an act to vest 100 shares in Washington and his heirs; Washington feels torn, because he does not wish to accept payment from the public, yet does not want to exhibit excess pride or "an ostentatious display of disinterestedness..." Predicts that the British will further trouble America, and that internal conflict will prevent the new nation from averting external evils. Asks Knox's opinion on whether he should use gravel or pavement for the paths in his garden, worrying that gravel will retain the impression of carriage wheels. Encloses a reply to Major Keith (not included), concerning military matters. Sends his and Martha's love to Knox and his wife Lucy.
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