Lee, Charles, 1731-1782 to Benjamin Rush
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC05546 Author/Creator: Lee, Charles, 1731-1782 Place Written: Camp near Winter Hill, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 19 September 1775 Pagination: 4 p. ; 32.1 x 19.6 cm. Order a Copy
Written by Major General Lee during the Siege of Boston to Rush as a doctor in private practice and a chemistry professor at Philadelphia Medical College. References Battle of Bunker Hill. Gives his sentiments on the situation of the siege. Says "I think We might have attack'd 'em long before this and with success, were our Troops differently constituted." Would like a more pro-active campaign on the part of the Americans. Fears Rush's report of divisions in Congress. Says he agrees with Rush's opinion of the "barbarous dangerous custom of loading the servants of the people with the trappings of court titles." References George Washington when he says "I cannot conceive who the Devil first devis'd the bauble of Excellency for their Commander in chief, or the more ridiculous of his Honour ... upon my Soul They make me spew." This comment is very strident because the term "bauble" can have connotations with monarchy because of its archaic definition as "a mock scepter carried by a court jester." Claims that "I am much pleas'd that my laughing at Mr. Adams's description of me in his intercept letter has met with approbation - but I cannot conceive how any Man who has nay share of understanding could be offended at it." Explains that charges he is a whimsical dog lover do not bother him. Says he does not think John Dickinson will be confounded by Adams's attack. Claims the constitutional anxiety of "our Farmer" has render'd him totally unfit for public affairs. Apologizes for sending a "heap of nonsense."
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