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Collection Reference Number GLC02437.03616
From Archive Folder The Henry Knox Papers [0081] July-September 1787 
Title Henry Knox to Marquis de Lafayette about French and American politics
Date 25 July 1787
Author Knox, Henry (1750-1806)  
Recipient Lafayette, Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert Du Motier, Marquis de  
Document Type Correspondence
Content Description References Lafayette's letter of 5 May 1787. Says the letter gave information that was "truly important and evinces that the french nobility possess the true spirit of justice & liberality." Tells him that there are dangers and that he "must not either sleep nor slumber politically." Reports that "Our friend Genl Washington is anxiously engaged in the business of thr forming of the political machine." Says delegates from every state except Rhode Island have met at a constitutional convention for the past two months. Declares, "They are secret in their councils, [conceiving] such great propriety that, the people ought not to see only half the plan at a time." Argues that only time will tell if the document will be as perfect as the occasion calls for, but believes the chances are good because of "the characters who compose the convention." Says that Washington's judgment comes from great deliberation and reflection and that "His attendance in the convention adds in my opinion new lustre to his character - Secure as he was in his fame, he has again committed it to the mercy of events. Nothing but the critical situation of his country would have induced him to so hazardous a conduct - But when its happiness being endangered he disregards all personal considerations." Mentions that new French members were elected to the Society of the Cincinnati. Says arrangements have been made to deal with Major Pierre Charles L'Enfant's situation with the Society's badges.
Subjects US Constitution  Society of the Cincinnati  France  French Revolution  Revolutionary War General  Government and Civics  Politics  President  US Constitutional Convention  Patriotism  France  Global History and Civics  Fraternal Organization  Finance  Clothing and Accessories  
Place written New York, New York
Theme Government & Politics; Creating a New Government; Foreign Affairs
Sub-collection The Henry Knox Papers
Copyright The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History
Module Settlement, Commerce, Revolution and Reform: 1493-1859
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