Lee, Henry, 1756-1818 to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.04385 Author/Creator: Lee, Henry, 1756-1818 Place Written: Stratford, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 10 October 1789 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; 32.3 x 20.1 cm. Order a Copy
Congratulates Knox on his recent honor (likely his appointment as Secretary of War). Asks, "whether the second revolution will produce half the good predicted by its friends and whether the eastern conspiracy in the house of representatives declared afterwards on the floor respecting the permanent seat of govt. will not prove [incontestibly] the [simplicity] of associating with them in a form of govt. where they possess a majority." Adds that it is only his desire to preserve the new government he fought hard to help create, that prevents him from arguing further. Declares, "In as many words might the member on the floor have said, spend no more time in discussing this public question, we have determined to go to - & no where else....I sincerely pray for prosperity to the federated nation, but certainly the doings of our first Congress furnish no ground for hope on this subject." Sends condolences on the death of Knox's son. Noted as private.
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