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Letter is not signed but appears to be in Henry Knox's handwriting. Discusses a memorial the late General [Nathanael] Greene had submitted to Congress and the dire financial situation that now threatens Greene's family. Writes a lengthy letter defending Green's character. Describes the measures Greene took in 1782 regarding the army's clothing and provisions and why such measures were needed at the time. Also mentions various communications that took place between Greene and other gentlemen in 1782. Appears to ask Congress to relieve Greene's estate from any obligations Greene entered with John Banks for the support of the southern army. The letter appears to be directed to Mrs. Catherine Greene. Date was taken from the docket.
Writes from Camp High Hills that he hopes Knox is with General George Washington in Virginia, where the prospect is so bright and the glory so great. Wished the Continental Army had attacked New York, which was planned before the decision to concentrate forces at Yorktown. Anticipates that Washington will force British General Cornwallis to surrender, (pile his arms). Talks in general about the difficulties of his Southern campaign. Inquires about family and friends.
Explains that he must delay reconnaissance of King's Bridge (Kingsbridge) because he has to go to New Uttrick [Utrecht] on Long Island to conduct business with a committee there. Relays a report of two British ships spotted off the offing the previous night. Kingsbridge connected the northern tip of Manhattan to the mainland. The Continental Army evacuated Manhattan through there in October, 1776.
Dated November 1776; date of 17 November inferred from content. Reports that Fort Washington has been captured by the British, and that the Americans have lost between 2,000 to 3,000 soldiers. The American generals, including Washington, Palmer, Mercer and Greene, had been discussing abandoning the Fort when the British troops arrived and attacked. Describes the British attack on the fort, and the American retreat. Thinks the British may have taken a number of casualties, but bemoans the loss of the fort as a terrible event its consequences are justly to be dreaded, and asks Knox for support as a friend.
Since arriving in Philadelphia, has tried to gather a party of about 30 artificers to give to Greene. Discusses Mrs. Greene's trip with their son George Washington Greene to visit Greene at the high hills of Santee (the Santee River in South Carolina, where Greene was stationed). Also mentions the recent birth of a son to him and Mrs. Knox, whom I should name after you were not for the confounded name given by your [illegible] father - as it is I shall call him after some roman whose character I think you may like (possibly referring to his son Marcus). Sends love to Colonel Williams and Colonel Laurens.
General Nathanael Greene writes, I thank you for the public attention you are paying to my public Trophies; but I have been so embarrassed and perplexed in my private affairs for a long time past which originated in the progress of the War that I have but little spirit or pleasures on such subjects. My family is in distress and I am overwhelmed with difficulties and God knows when or where they will end. I work hard and live poor but I fear all this will not extricate me. Describes some business losses he has suffered, including poor harvest due to wet weather. Mrs. Greene is about to lay in to have a baby, and their other children have survived a smallpox inoculation. Comments on stupid trade regulations within the United States that he fears will serve as an excuse for Britain to attack them again, and is happy to note that they still have France's protection. Asks Knox to find out how he might get allowance for his back rations from 1777 and how other officers settled their affairs. Mrs. Greene sends her love to Knox and his wife. Next to the docket is a note in Knox's hand which reads: This is the last letter I ever received from my truly beloved friend Genl Greene.
Discusses his family, stating My feelings are more flattered by domestic duties than public bustle. Comments on credit being given to George Washington (and himself) for service during the Revolutionary War, noting there are others no less deserving. Expresses the depth of his friendship with Knox. Mentions discontent recently arising regarding the Society of the Cincinnati (some felt it would promote hereditary nobility). Discusses his nomination to work in the Department of War, asking for Knox's opinions.