Knox, Henry, 1750-1806 to Jonathan Williams
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.07406 Author/Creator: Knox, Henry, 1750-1806 Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 10 May 1800 Pagination: 4 p. : Height: 25.1 cm, Width: 20.2 cm Order a Copy
Knox explains to Williams the situation surround Henry Jackson Knox and his refusal to accept midshipman status after being refused promotion to lieutenant. Knox's son "appears to have no proper value for money, and is therefore very extravagant." Knox thought the Navy would help straighten his son out, but now Knox fears his son will be "involved in a course of errors and vices which may overwhelm him." Knox asks Williams to take him on and help Henry Jackson Knox overcome his weaknesses. Knox is afraid his son's love of gambling has left a considerable debt that Knox cannot pay. Knox prefers that his son rejoin the Navy, but if that is not possible, Knox thinks it would be best if son travel to Maine to be with his parents. Henry Jackson Knox should travel by water and not land because land travel would be more expensive and he would be too distracted by "bad company" and tempted to stray if went by land. If President Adams is still in Philadelphia and Williams thinks it is appropriate to consult him on this matter, Knox consents to allow Williams to do so.
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