Washington, George, 1732-1799 to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.09416 Author/Creator: Washington, George, 1732-1799 Place Written: Mount Vernon, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 5 February 1788 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; 23.1 x 18.9 cm. Order a Copy
Expresses regret that "the important question" Massachusetts is deliberating "stands on such precarious ground" (referring to ratification of the Constitution; Massachusetts ratified 6 February 1788). Predicts that Virginia will choose to ratify, but admits he does not have the most recent or accurate information (Virginia ratified 26 June 1788). Declares Holland's case pitiable (possibly referring to the Triple Alliance of 1788). Notes that navigation of the Potomac has been stopped for five weeks. Sends his and Martha's good wishes to Knox and his wife Lucy. In a postscript, asks the identity of the author or authors of Publius, a reference to The Federalist Papers, influential pamphlets in defense of ratification of the Constitution, written by James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay. Docketed in Knox's hand.
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