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At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Breck, Samuel, 1747-1809 to Henry Knox

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.05109 Author/Creator: Breck, Samuel, 1747-1809 Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 7 August 1791 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; Height: 23.5 cm, Width: 19.6 cm Order a Copy

Says he was determined to pursue "the Object relative to the Direction of the Bank which you was so obliging as to advice when I saw you in Philadelphia," but that he has since "abandoned the project & Sold out." Was concerned that if he had a large holding in the bank he would have "to attend its operation," and if he had a small stake he would not accrue "Honor or Proffit." Despite his pull out he claims "I rejoice however at the rising Credit of our Country and expect very soon to see it on a footing, superior to any other whatever." Says that Alexander Hamilton will be gratified with the situation of America and asks Knox to send his "respectful Compliments." Hopes Knox will explain to Hamilton why he pulled out of the bank. Claims "The success of General [Charles] Scott against the Indians cou'd not fail of producing the best Effect, indeed every thing seems to conspire to render our Country perfectly happy." Believes the people in this part of the country are happy with the general government. When he visits Boston again "you will see every thing wearing a new Face & Jackson the Nabob of the East!"

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