TRANSCRIPT GLC 2437.53.063
George Washington. Letter signed: Mount Vernon, to Henry Knox, 1785 December 11. 2 p. + doc.

Mount Vernon 11.th Decr 1785.

My dear Sir

Majr. Farlie gave me the pleasure of receiving your letter of the 22d Instt, & thereby knowing that you, Mrs Knox & the family were all well. –

It has always been my opinion you know, that our Affairs with respect to the Indians would never be in a good train whilst the British Garrisons remained on the American side of the territorial line - & that these Posts would not be evacuated by them, as long as any pretext could be found to with-hold them. – They know the importance of these Posts too well to give them up soon, or quietly. – their trade with the Indians in a great measure depend upon the possession of them, knowing full well that all the assertions of our Commrs with respect to the Articles of Peace, & their obligation to surrender them, is no more than chaff before the wind [inserted: when opposed] by the scale of possession

I am sorry the State Societies should hesitate to comply with the recommendation of the General meeting of the Cincinnati, holden at Phila. in 1784. – I then thought, & have no cause since [2] to change my opinion, that no thing short of what was then done would appease the clamours which were raised against this Institution. – Some late attacks have been made upon it; amongst which a Pamphlet written by the Count de Mirabeau, a French Gentleman, has just made its appearance. – It is come to my hands translated into English, but I have not had the time yet to read it. –

I am sorry you have undergone any chagreen on acct. of the lime Stone. – I have got through my Summers work without any disappointment therefrom; having had it in my power at all times, when wanted, to but Shells. – Nor would I wish to have any sent me now, unless by contract not to exceed One shilling and three pence at the Ships side at Alexandria, or opposite to my House; and this I do not expect; as Stone lime is oftener higher at the former place. –

It is unnecessary to assure you of the pleasure I should feel at seeing you at this place, whenever business or inclination may bring you to this State. – Every good wish, in which Mrs. Washington joins me, is offered to you, Mrs. Knox and the Children – With every sentiment of friendship & regard, I am – My dear Sir
Yr. Affecte. Hble Servt

Go: Washington
Majr Genl Knox

Notes: Published by Twohig, Dorothy, et al. The Papers of George Washington. v. 3, pp. 448-9. Pulbished in Fitzpatrick, John C. The Writings of George Washington. v. 28, pp. 350-1. GLC 2437.52.157 is a duplicate of this document