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Letter to Henry Knox, June 14, 1793 |
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TRANSCRIPT GLC 2437.53.082
George Washington. Autographed letter signed: Philadelphia, to Secretary at War Henry Knox, 1793 June 14. 2 p. + addr.
[inserted- different hand: Washington]
Philadelphia June 14th . 1793.
Sir; (Private)
By the Gazetts of to day, I perceive a Vessel is just arrived in this Port from New Orleans, on board of which are several of our Citizens; who, having passed down the Mississippi, are now on their return to the Ohio, their place of residence. –
It is of great importance that this Government should be fully informed of the Spanish force in the Floridas – the number of their Posts – and the strength & situation of [struck: them] each; together with such other circumstances as would enable it to adopt corrispondent measures in case we should, in spite of our endeavors to avoid it, get embroiled in a dispute with that Nation. – It would be too improvident – might be too late – & certainly would be disgraceful, to have this information to obtain when our plans ought to be formed –
I desire therefore, that you would cause in as unsuspected a manner as the case will admit, the above persons to be examined touching the above points, and what number of Troops have lately arrived at New Orleans; and commit the result to Paper. – Were they to be examined separately, advantages might follow by comparing their accounts. –
I point you to the above as one source only of information; my desire to [2] obtain a knowledge of these facts, lead me to request with equal earnestness, that you would improve every other to ascertain them with certainty. –
No reasonable expence should be spared to accomplish objects of such magnitude, in times so critical. –
Go: Washington
[address]
The Secretary of War
[verso - leaf]
Private
Notes: Published in Fitzpatrick, John C. The Writings of George Washington. v. 32: 502-03.
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