Howard, John Eager, 1752-1827 to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.00299 Author/Creator: Howard, John Eager, 1752-1827 Place Written: New York, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 14 May 1776 Pagination: 2p.+addr. 32.4 cm. x 20.7 cm. Order a Copy
Apologizes for disturbing Knox with this letter, refers to Knox as his benefactor, and insists that he writes out of necessity. Describes his impromtu joining of the campaign on the recent march from Massachusetts to New York, his lack of money, and his awkward position as neither an officer nor a soldier. Explains the dignity and honor of being well dressed. Requests relief (meaning money). Assures Knox that he will not be "one of the Continent's bad Bargains," explaining a common reference to those who have joined the service to "amuse and gratify" instead of for Howard's noble reasons: "A thrift of Honor, the Defense of my Property*, & the common Rights of Mankind." The * refers to six hundred acres described as valueless if the Americans lose. Also explains that a bout of consumption prevented his earlier enlistment.
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