|
|
 |
 |
|
Letter to Henry Knox, December 26, 1791 |
 |
|
TRANSCRIPT GLC 2437.53.078
George Washington. Autographed letter signed: Philadelphia, to Secretary at War Henry Knox, 1791 December 26. 2 p.
Philadelphia Decr. 26th 1791
(Private)
Dear Sir,
The enclosed is a private letter from Colo. Nicholas (an influential character in Kentucky) to the Attorney General. – He put it into my hands to read; – I, without having asked his permission, send it to you for the same purpose, of course the communication is confidential. – My reason for sending it to you is, to shew you the uniform sentiment of that district; and how little confidence the people of it will place in the plan which is proposed by your statement – of consequence how little support in pursuance of it, is to be expected from thence. –
Might it not be advisable if for the purpose of comparison only, to draw up, and estimate the expence of a plan upon their principles; making the regular force, however (no Cavalry) to consist of about 1200 Men exclusive of Artillery; for the purposes of a garrison at the Maume village, and the communication therewith. –
It may be asked how are these 1200 men to be covered whilst they are establishing this Post? – By what means are the great deposits to be made in them, from which the Militia are to be supplied? – By what authority can Militia be organized in the manner proposed? – What certainty is there of obtaining them, agreeably to the suggestions of the letters? – Would they remain in service a sufficient time to answer any valuable purpose? – What effect would it have upon the Agriculture of that Country if they did? – &ca. &ca. –
These difficulties unquestionably would be great – and the plan ultimately hazardous. – But opposed to them, the Western people would be endulged – Many Members of Congress gratified – The operations might commence as soon as the Season and the herbage would admit (which are considerations of [2] great importance) – Many difficulties with respect to appointments avoided – And, if the War can be terminated by such operations the expence would be much less.
I am Yours, Affectly & sincerely
Go: Washington
PS. Return the enclosed to me early in the morng.
Majr. Genl. Knox
Notes: Published in Fitzpatrick, John C. The Writings of George Washington. v. 31: 450-51.
|
|
|
 |
 |
|
