Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1776-05-20
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 1: 410.
Transcription
Dear Sir: Williamsburg, May 20, 1776.
Your two last favors are with me; and for them both, I give you many thanks. Ere this reaches you, our resolution for separating from Britain will be handed you by Col. Nelson. Your sentiments as to the necessary progress of this great affair correspond with mine. For may not France, ignorant of the great advantages to her commerce we intend to offer, and of the permanency of that separation which is to take place, be allured by the partition you mention? To anticipate therefore the efforts of the enemy by sending instantly American Ambassadors to France, seems to me absolutely necessary. Delay may bring on us total ruin. But is not a confederacy of our states previously necessary? If that could be formed, and its objects for the present be only offensive and defensive, and guaranty respecting Colonial Rights, perhaps dispatch might be had, and the adjustment of Representation, and other lesser matters, be postponed without injury. May not the Fishery be a tempting object? I think from the great French force now in West Indies some person of eminent rank must be there to guide it. The Mississippi should be tho’t of. I thank you for the hint of the back lands. I gave an opinion, as a lawyer, to Brent, on the subject of his and Croghan’s purchase and not withstanding solicitations from every great land company to the West, I’ve refused to join them. I think a general confiscation of Royal and British property should be made. The Fruits would be great, and the measure in its utmost latitude warranted by the late act of Parliament.
The grand work of forming a constitution for Virginia is now before the convention, where your love of equal liberty and your skill in public counsels, might so eminently serve the cause of your country. Perhaps I am mistaken, but I fear too great a bias to Aristocracy prevails among the opulent. I own my self a Democrat on the plan of our admired friend J. Adams, whose pamphlet I read with great pleasure. A performance from Philada is just come here, ushered in, I’m told, by a colleague of yours, B—— and greatly recommended by him. I don’t like it. Is the author a whig? One or two expressions in the Book make me ask. I wish to divide you, and have you here, to animate by your manly eloquence the sometimes drooping spirits of our country, and in Congress, to be the ornament of your native Country, and the vigilant determined foe of Tyranny. To give you colleagues of kindred sentiments is my wish. I doubt you have them not at present. A confidential acc’t of the matter to Col. Tom, desiring him to use it according to his discretion, might greatly serve the public, and vindicate Virginia from suspicions. Vigor, animation, and all the powers of mind and body, must now be summoned and collected together into one grand effort. Moderation, falsely so called, hath nearly brought on us final ruin. And to see those who have so fatally advised us, still guiding, or at least sharing our public counsels, alarms me. Adieu my dear Sir; present me to my much esteemed F.L.L. and believe me, Yr. very affect. and obliged,
P. Henry, jr.
Pray drop me a line now and then.
To Col. R. H. Lee.
P. S.—Our mutual friend the General will be hampered if not taken. Some Gentry throw out alarms that a Cong power has swallowed up everything. My all to I know how to feel for him.
Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1777-01-09
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 1: 511.
Transcription
Williamsburgh, Va, January 9, 1777.
I congratulate you my dear Sir on our well timed success at Trenton. I trust the honor of our arms will be retrieved.
Our levies go on pretty well in many places; in some the great want of necessary clothing & blankets, retards them. Orders issue this day for the officers to hold themselves & soldiers ready to march by companies & parts of companies, & in a little time they’ll go off, but in want of every thing.
I observe our people (a few excepted) are firm & not to be shaken. A great number of volunteers may be had. I hope all the enlistments may be filled, but doubt if it can soon be done. I am endeavoring at vigorous measures. Languor seems to have been diffused thro’ the Naval department. However I hope it will mend. The Cherokees are humbled, but I fear hostility about Pittsburg in the spring, & have provided ammunition and provisions in that quarter, & shall be able to muster a formidable militia thereabouts. The powder is not yet sent, but I wait only for the result of a council of war where to deposit it. Our sea coasts are defenseless almost. Arms & woolens are wanted here most extremely. We are making efforts to secure them. I do indeed pity your situation. I guess at the many perplexities & difficulties that attend you. I know how much the vigorous counsels of America are indebted to you for their support. I know how much you detest the spirit of indecision and lukewarmness that has exposed our country to so much peril. Let me tell you that altho’ your fatigue is almost too much to bear, yet you must hold out a little longer. Many people pretend they perceive errors in Congress, & some wicked ones are greatly pleased at the hopes of seeing the respect due to that assembly succeeded by contempt.
Make my most affe. compliments to Col. Frank. Has he forgot me? Indeed he may ask me the same. Tell him that from morning till night I have not a minute from business. I wish it may all do, for there are a thousand things to mend, to begin.
Adieu my dear Sir, & believe me your affectionate, humble servant,
P. Henry. To Richard Henry Lee, Esq., at Congress.
P.S. I beg you’ll tell me what is the best method for doing Justice to Gen. Stephen as to his rank. I think he ought to be raised above his present rank.
Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1777-03-20
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 1: 513.
Transcription
Dear Sir: Wmsburgh, March 20, 1777.
Every possible method has been taken to hasten the march of the new Levys. I am sorry to observe a remissness among the officers, over whom the executive of this country can exercise no command in the opinion of most people. Indeed they have a general want of necessarys to struggle with. But they do not in general exert themselves as they ought. I’ve sent express twice to each colonel, & besides have had public advertisements repeatedly in the papers. All won’t do. They are remiss. I guess two-thirds of the continental Recruits are enlisted, but in broken Quotas. Our three Battalions are more than half full. The inlistments for Georgia (agt. my opinion permitted by the assembly) have greatly hurt ours. A fellow called the Dragging Canoe, has seceded from the nation of Cherokees & 400 Warriors have followed his fortune, lying in the Woods & making War on us notwithstanding the peace made with Col. Christian. We have a Treaty on foot still with that people. Orders were issued a few days since for destroying Pluggy’s Town. Three hundred Militia are ordered on that service from the Neighbourhood of Fort Pitt. Five swift sailing Boats are gone for arms to the West Indies. Our Factorys are making some. Perhaps we may arm our own Troops & some others, especially if the importation succeeds. A French ship & 2 Briggs are lately arrived here. ‘Tis said they’ve warlike stores. If so my next will tell, as I’ve sent to purchase them—I hear to-day the people on the Eastern Shore are very uneasy, and that from the great number of disaffected in Maryland and Delaware the Whigs of Virginia are inclined to move away their Family’s. I suppose the number is small and those of the richer sort. The poor can’t remove. The affairs of that shore puzzle me. Pray advise me what it is best to do. What can be the reason of no mails from the North? Adieu my dear friend. May your powerful assistance be never wanted when the best Interests of America are in Danger. May the subterfuges of Toryism be continually exposed and counteracted by that zeal and ability you have so long displayed, to the peculiar Honor of your native country, & the advantage of all the United States.
I am, Yr. ever affte.
P. Henry To Richard Henry Lee, at the Congress.
Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1777-03-28
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 1: 515.
Transcription
Dear Sir: Williamsburg, March 28th, 1777.
The practise of engrossing all foreign goods & Country produce has gotten to an enormity here, particularly in the latter articles. Corn flour and meat are bought up (as I was informed by Col. Aylett) in so much that it is almost impossible to furnish the public demands, in such time as the necessitys of the army require. A gentleman here in partnership with Mr. Morris, has speculated very largely in such articles as the army wants. The public agent complains he is anticipated. I hope the practise will be effectually stopped, or fatal consequences must ensue. I write to the General that our enlistments go on badly, Indeed they are almost stopped. The Georgia Service has hurt it much. The terrors of the smallpox, added to the lies of deserters and the want of necessarys, are fatal objections to the continental Service. Perhaps two-thirds of the six new Battalions are enlisted, but in broken quotas scattered far and wide, they move slowly. How long will you sit at Philadelphia? I fear you will come away again before the campaign is long begun. I heartily pray for your prosperity and welfare, and as the messenger waits I must conclude this scrawl from Yr. afft. friend,
P. Henry Jr.
Can you tell us nothing from France?
To Richard Henry Lee, at Congress.
Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1777-08-30
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 3: 89.
Transcription
Dear Sir: Wmsburgh Aug 30th 1777.
Many thanks are due to you for your agreeable Favor by post. The fleet went up the Bay long since, & before this you must have heard of their movements. I have not heard of the Troops landing. The whole affair strange and unaccountable. Our Eastern Shore is alarmed, but not intimidated so much as expected, several Recusants having taken the oath on sight of the fleet. I have ordered some Reenforcements there, vizt 2 Galleys, & 2 or 3 companys of Regulars; & I do think it may be of essential service to throw a large number of men there, if the Enemy form lines from the waters of Elk to Delaware. Graham’s draft is not forged. He was yery useful to this State in furnishing necessaries on a liberal plan. I hope therefore he may meet with civility and receive his money.
Burgoyne’s progress alarmed some, but I hope the N. England men will repel him. The affair of Tyconderoga was mortifying. Hurry obliges me to conclude, begging for all the Intelligence possible to be had at this critical and interesting period. Farewell, my dear sir, I am affectionately yours,
P. Henry. Hon. R. H. Lee. At the Congress.
Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1777-09-12
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 3: 94.
Transcription
Wmsburgh Sept 12th 1777.
Your agreeable favor my dear sir, gave me great pleasure. I rejoice at our success over Burgoyne, & I rejoice because the New England men had so great a share in it. For a malevolent set are continually endeavouring to spread jealousys of these our honest, best, & most faithful allys. In proportion as I hear them traduced my Esteem for them encreases. I hope now we shall hear no more to their prejudice. Indeed I’m not a judge how far they have lately complyed with the Requisitions of Congress, but only speak of them as they stood when I was a member. My plan was to throw a Body of Troops on the Eastern shore, but the Enemy’s ships have made that impracticable in some measure. I’ve sent pressing orders, & repeatedly, to Colo Gibson to go on, & he will do so whenever the men are able. I laid the Requisition for the Cables &c. before our Navy Board, but their answer is that the size of them is too large. I shall send it enclosed. I am much pleased to hear of the spirit with which the militia turn out. Their ardour is great. We have a few corps of them here, but they are impatient to go home.
Hearing from undoubted intelligence that our lost officers are imprisoned at N. York, & having one Lieutenant and 3 midship men of the Enemy’s prisoners here, I’ve ordered them close prisoners in gaol by way of Retaliation. I have resisted the first impulses to this measure, but repeated proofs of inhuman Treatment to our people wfll suffer no longer hesitation.
Seventeen Cherokees with Colo Gist are gone to the Eastern shore with two companys of Regulars. The Ohio Indians are troublesome, & General Hand meditates some offensive measures. As the Defence of this country now rests on the militia, & they cannot be kept constantly embodyed, it becomes necessary for the public safety to receive the quickest Intelligence of the Enemy’s motions. I’m not without Hopes that they may be forced to embark again, & in that case they may ravage to great extent, unless there is time for preparation to receive them. I have sent Capt. Pierce to the camp for the sole purpose of gaining Intelligence, & in the mean time shall be exceedingly obliged to you to continue yr agreeable Intercourse, by which I receive so much pleasure, & the public is availed of those Incidents that so much concern it to know.
Wishing you Health, & the enjoyment of every good thing, I remain My dear sir, Your affectionate humble servant,
P. Henry. R. H. Lee, Esq.
Baron Kalb’s trunk shall be sought for.
P. S. Lieutenant Colo Carrington having made every concession that was proper, I have to entreat that congress will, if agreeable to them, erase the Resolution respecting him, that nothing to his prejudice may appear hereafter.
P. H.
The Navy Board answer they can’t without difficulty get Hemp to supply our own little navy.
Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1777-11-10
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 3: 115.
Transcription
Wmsburgh Novr 10th, 1777.
I have to make my best acknowledgments to you, my dear sir, for your many interesting letters lately recd. The authority of them served to fix the belief of our late glorious successes, when others seemed to doubt them, producing sundry testimonys from the north which had well nigh set us to mourning. Col Lane to day gave me yours of the 14th October. The matters it contains was highly interesting. Yours to Co1o Richd. of the 5th Novr he has showed me to day. I congratulate you on the events it mentions. Our assembly has been sitting 4 weeks, & not a Bill passed, or anything done. I have dispatched two agents to Carolina in pursuit of Woolens for the grand army. They might have been had some time ago, but tis uncertain now. I propose to draw on congress for the am’t. The Goods will be very high, tho’ I shall not stand at a small matter. I have it in contemplation to dispatch a messenger to Havanah & Orleans to negotiate a loan of money to Virginia. Pray what think you of it? Pray keep it close, & mention it to no one. Your sentiments may help me out on the subject. Our Credit is almost gone. Twas fatal to omit taxing when you proposed it. Will you send me a copy of a letter rec’d from Orleans by the committee (I believe) of secret correspondence? Gibson’s trip may be improved to great purposes. I’ve proposed to establish a post at the mouth of the Ohio, if the Spaniards will bring the Goods there in their own bottoms. I’ve sent letters to Havanah & Orleans by an agent who is to try the Experiment of a Vessell round by sea. If the Northern Army can arrive at Delaware, Howe may possibly be embarrassed, & so a prospect open for that sweet enjoyment of the repose, which your incessant & distinguished labors so richly deserve. I shall tell you of Mr. Loyeauté in a letter to the Delegates, & for that I have so long kept the express. Adieu my dear sir. Comend me to Colo Frank & believe me, Yr affectionate servant,
P. Henry.
P. S.—After keeping yr Express till the 15th I send him away at last without the Resolution respecting Mr. Loyeaute. The lower House has resolved to allow that Gentn £450 pr Ann. as director of a military academy to teach Gunnery & Fortification. The Senate has not yet agreed to it, I think they will in a few days, & then shall inform the Delegates of it. The Express will stay no longer.
Yrs &c.
P. Henry.
Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1777-12-18
Repository
PPRF–Rosenbach Museum and Library, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 3: 133.
Transcription
Wmsburgh, Decr 18th, 1777.
I am favored, my dear Sir, with yrs from Baltimore to-day, & with that from Potomack yesterday. The Governor of Maryland was requested by me, to send some Galleys to join two of ours, that had orders to prevent, if possible, the evil designs of the enemy on that River. The Assembly took up the subject & desired this plan to be prosecuted. I hope it will answer. Every one here seems persuaded that watering is their object in that Quarter.
I wish I could inform you of anything satisfactory on the subject of Mr. Loyeauté. I really did desire to serve him as you wished, & did recommend him in a public address to the Assembly, as well as confidentially to some. But General Washington’s recommendation of Colo Marshall stopped my mouth. His last proposition is now before the two Houses, & what its Fate may be I cannot tell. Time will not permit the discussion of many matters that wait, & have long waited for a decision. Can you think it? Not one law of importance is passed. It is resolved I hear not to adjourn for Xmas, but to remain ’til the Business is finished. In this suspense, when matters of vast concern are on the Tapis, your Friends think the general interest of America, & the welfare of this state, call you here. I should think so too, did I not know that your whole time & attention have been bestowed on the American contest since its first beginning. Fine parts are seldom join’d to industry, & very seldom accompany such a degree of strength & toughness as your long combat with Torys required. I know how necessary a little repose is to you. Tis cruel to deny it. But I cannot help fearing that our country may date the Era of calamity at the time you are absent from the public councils. The Confederation is passed they say nem. con. though opposed by some who opposed Independency. This I hear, & I hear other things, tho’ I shall forbear to enlarge, because I still entertain some hope you will be here to see & to hear for yourself, & by seeing & hearing, once more eminently serve the cause of Whiggism & your country.
I hear this Evening that Colo Frank has written some body in Town, that Genl Howe has marched to attack Genl Washington. I hope our encampment is well fortify’d. I’ve no news to write you, except that a Shawanese chief & 3 warriours are killed while on a visit at Point Pleasant, the fury of our people being ungovernable, on seeing the body of one who was slain by the Indians brought into the Fort—From the late intelligence a well grounded Hope seems to be deduced, that a French War must soon happen.
I beg you to be assured that with great affection I am, My dear friend, Yours ever,
P. Henry. To Richard Henry Lee, Esq., Westmoreland.
Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1778-04-07
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 1: 559.
Transcription
Wmsburgh, Apl 7th 1778.
Your letter from Belleview came to hand, my dear sir, by the last post, & I assure you I wish all your letters may be as long. As usual I am in great hurry, & seize a moment by this Messenger to tell you that the necessity of adopting vigorous measures in the Comissariate induced me to appoint Hawkins, over whom I exerted all my personal. Influence, & with great difficulty got him to undertake the Business. He has given one-half his salary, which appears at first view large, to an able hand (.Rd. Morris) who is a fine accountant & man of Fortune. I am really shocked at the management of Congress in this Department. John Moore’s appointment gave me the most painful feelings. Good God! Our Fate committed to a man utterly unable to perform the task assigned him! Raw, inexperienced, without weight, consequence or acquaintance with men or business; called into action at a time when distinguished talent only can save an army from perishing. I tell you, & I grieve at it, Congress will lose the respect due—but I forbear. Tis my business to exert all my powers for the Common Good. I must not be depended on for anything in that line if Hawkins is rejected by congress. If he is continued, pray supply him with plenty of money. He is really superior to any one in that way, & of established credit to any amount.
I’ve advanced money, & published repeated orders for the march of the new Levys, & on receipt of yours have addressed the continental Officers on the subject. But there is great Langor among them. I’ve sought for good hands to set out on the recruiting Business you mention, & will make an effort, & by the success of that shall judge if any thing can be done. Gilmour, I think, ought to be dealt with, but the powers of the Executive will not reach so far as the seizing of papers. Tis indeed too much cramped. However will think further on the subject. I am really so harrassed by the great load of continental Business thrown on me lately, that I am ready to sink under my Burden, & have thoughts of taking that rest that will I doubt soon become necessary. For my strength will not suffice. You are again traduced by a certain set who have drawn in others, who say that you are engaged in a scheme to discard General Washington. I know you too well to suppose you attempt any thing not evidently calculated to serve the cause of Whiggism. To dismiss the General would not be so: ergo &c. But it is your fate to suffer the constant attacks of disguised Torys who take this measure to lessen you. Farewell my dear Friend. In praying for your welfare I pray for that of my country, to which your life and service are of the last moment.
I am in great Haste, Yr affte,
P. Henry. To Richard Henry Lee, at Congress.
Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1778-05-15
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 3: 166.
Transcription
Williamsburg, May 15th 1778.
I beg leave, my dear sir, to give my most cordial congratulations on the late happy events that have taken place. May we be wise enough to improve these favorable occurrences into the Permanent happiness of our country!
Yours of the 7th came to hand last night. I have got one swift boat now ready to sail. Another shall be provided in some short time. Ocracock is blocked up pretty much. The boats will go out of our capes. The Assembly is sitting; 500 horse were voted yesterday. Some may be quickly got. However, the affair will be suspended a few days on hearing the enemy are preparing to leave the continent.
God bless you sir, Yours,
P. Henry. Richard Henry Lee Esq.
Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1778-05-28
Repository
ViW–College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, Va.
Subcollection
Patrick Henry Papers
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 3: 174.
Transcription
My Dear Sir: Wmsburg. May 28. 1778.
Your favor of the 18th is this moment handed me. The despatches you speak of dated the 16th, were safely delivered, and the messenger proceeded to New Bern. For your sake, and because you desired it, I gave great attention to Loyeauté, but to no purpose. When he claimed command of the regiment of Artillery, I was obliged to interfere till the Assembly met. The officers refused to obey him, except some of the lower. On referring the affair to the Assembly, they resolved he had not a right to command, and he resigned. He has really given me pain. I revere his nation, and have great regard for all its people. I could not gratify Loyeauté, I could not, though I tried hard for it, make him happy; while I doubt not of his great zeal for America, I must of his abilities. I am not singular. Give me leave now to mention another Frenchman, Capt Cotteneau. He seems to possess discernment and enterprize. I like much his scheme of attacking our foes in Africa. Tis very plausible and bids fair for success. Remember how Goree was taken, I think a 20 gun ship of this state might aid the attempt. Will it not distract their attention profitably?
I long for something of the eclat that would attend success in such an enterprize. However, listen the Capt yourself and judge. While I am writing this a 50 gun ship is arrived in James, 49 days from Rochford (I know not if she is royal property) and a brigg with a large quantity of goods. No news as yet come from them. The English are at length departed with all their ships. They went 10 days ago. I had a fine sailing boat to carry the dispatches you told me of; but she would not miss the fine opportunity offered for her departure. Another or two will be ready in a week. When shall I receive the letters? Tell me what is to be done with Capt Young if they dont come. The intelligence of 100 drafts from the Eastern shore going to the English is false.
Our Assembly are voting 350 horse and 2000 infantry for the grand army. I doubt their being got. No attempt, (I regret it) to restore public credit.
Pray try to get us six or eight heavy canon for a Fort to protect the ships of our allys. Such a one is much wanted here.
Adieu my dear friend. Yours ever,
P. Henry. R. H. Lee, Esq.
Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1779-05-19
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 2: 30.
Transcription
Dear Sir: Wmsburgh, May 19th 1779.
Yesterday I received your last favor by express and laid it before the Assembly. The enemy are here and I suppose them the same embarkation you mention. Their number is about two thousand land forces. Their ships 1, 64, the Raisonable, the Rainbow, 44, the Otter a new sloop, and one or two other sloops and some privateers. The ‘rest are transports, in number about 15, making in all about 35 sail. They took Portsmouth with little opposition, our force there being under 100 Regulars. Four or five vessels of value and some force were lost one of which fell into the enemy’s hands. From thence they proceeded to Suffolk last Friday, where they burnt the town and all the continental possessions. there, about I believe 1200 barrels of pork. No flour was destroyed, nor did .they get anything they could carry off except the .plunder of houses, which they indiscriminately robbed and despoiled of everything valuable, and then set fire to many. They retreated back to Portsmouth where they now are and as yet have not destroyed the town. It is, however, expected daily to share the fate of Suffolk. Our militia could not be embodied in time to attack the ravagers on then’ march, but we have now 2000 or 3000 in arms, and I trust we shall be pretty secure in these parts against their future operations. But the extent of our shores hinders the possibility of defending all places. Seven Frenchmen, it is said and believed, have been murdered in cold blood. Others add that they were even strangled by the British. I shall take care to investigate that matter and inform Congress if I find it true. Our Assembly have called General Scott and the new recruits to our aid. Yesterday also Bland’s cavalry were sent for here. Will it not disgrace our country thus to cry out for aid against this band of robbers? However the Assembly have done it and I must submit.
Govr Hamilton of Detroit is a prisoner with the judge of that country, several “captains, lieutenants, and all the British who accompanied Hamilton in .his conquest of the Wabash. Our brave Colo. Clark (sent out from our militia) with 100 Virginians besieged the Governor in a strong fort with several hundreds, and with small arms alone fairly took the whole corps prisoners and sent them into our interior country. This is a most gallant action and I trust will secure our frontiers in great measure. The goods taken by Clark are said to be of immense amount, and I hope will influence the Indians to espouse our interests. Detroit now totters; and if Clark had a few of McIntosh’s forcesthe place would be ours directly. I’ve lately sent the French there all the State papers, translated into their language, by the hands of a priest who I believe has been very active. I cannot give you the other particulars of Clark’s success, his messenger tome being killed and the letters torn by the Indians.
Adieu, my dear sir. May you continue your labors for the public good, which has been so much forwarded by you for so long a time.
Yrs. in haste,
P. Henry. To Richard Henry Lee,
Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1778-06-18
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 1: 564.
Transcription
My Dear Sir: Williamsburg June 18th, 1778.
Both your last letters came to hand to-day. I felt for you, on seeing the order in which the balloting placed the delegates in Congress. It is an effect of that rancorous malice, that has so long followed you, through that arduous path of duty which you have invariably travelled, since America resolved to resist her oppressors. Is it any pleasure to you, to remark, that at the same era in which these men figure against you, public spirit seems to have taken its flight from Virginia? It is too much the case; for the quota of our troops is not half made up, and no chance seems to remain for completing it. The Assembly voted three hundred and fifty horse, and two thousand men, to be forthwith raised, and to join the grand army. Great bounties are offered, but I fear, the only effect will be, to expose our State to contempt, for I believe no soldiers will enlist, especially in the infantry. Can you credit it; no effort was made for supporting, or restoring public credit! I pressed it warmly on some, but in vain. This is the reason we get no soldiers. We shall issue fifty or sixty thousand dollars in cash, to equip the cavalry, and their time is to expire at Christmas. I believe they will not be in the field before that time. Let not Congress rely on Virginia for soldiers. I tell you my opinion, they will not be got here until a different spirit prevails. I look at the past condition of America, as at a dreadful precipice, from which we have escaped, by means of the generous French, to whom I will be everlastingly bound by the most heartfelt gratitude. But I must mistake matters, if some of those men who traduce you, do not prefer the offers of Britian. You will have a different game to play now with the commissioners. How comes Governor Johnstone there? I do not see how it comports with his past life. Surely Congress will never recede from our French friends. Salvation to America depends upon our holding fast our attachment to them. I shall date our ruin from the moment that it is exchanged for anything Great Britian can say or do. She can never be cordial with us. Baffled, defeated, disgraced by her colonies, she will ever mediate revenge. We can find no safety but in her ruin, or at least in her extreme humiliation, which has not happened, and cannot happen until she is deluge with blood, or thoroughly purged by a revolution, which shall wipe from existence the present king with his connexions, and the present system, with those who aid and abet it. For God’s sake, my dear sir, quit not the councils of your country, until you see us forever disjoined from Great Britian. The old leaven still works. The flesh pots of Egypt are still savoury to degenerate palates. Again, we are undone if the French alliance is not religiously observed. Excuse my freedom. I know your love to our country, and this is my motive. May heaven give you health and prosperity.
I am, yours affectionately,
Patrick Henry. To Richard Henry
Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1785-01-09
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 3: 265.
Transcription
Dear Sir: Richmond Jan’y 9th 1785
Your very agreeable letter came to my hands some few days ago, and Colo Grayson, who is going from hence tomorrow morning, is the first good conveyance to you that has presented since the arrival of my Family at this place. The Revolution of affairs has, as you observe, placed us nearly in the same situation which we held during the early part of the late war. Give me leave to add, my hearty wishes are that the same friendly intercourse, from which I then received so great pleasure, & my country so much advantageous information, may again take place, & receive no interruption. The elevated station you so justly hold will enable you to learn at the earliest periods, the origin, progress and tendency of those systems of policy in various parts of the World, by which our prosperity and happiness will be affected. You will easily see how fortunate it will be for me to receive intimations of these matters from you, especially if you will add such observations of your own as may occur occasionally on the present politics of Europe & America, with which my late situation has caused me to be unacquainted. It shall be my endeavour to repay you the best way I can, by telling you of such events here as may be worth your notice, from time to time. They will not be very interesting of themselves, but will be worth writing to you chiefly on account of their coming from your own country.
I am not able to give you the History of the last session of Assembly which ended three days ago, the printer as usual being tardy. Some excuse he has now on account of his being obliged to remove his office to a new situation. Before I close this letter I will get from him everything I can find worthy your perusal, which he has printed on the subject. One circumstance, which I regret attended the conclusion of business at the end of this session, & which I fear may give unfavorable impressions of their candor, is, that 2 Bills—to which both houses assented, but which were not reported from the upper House—dropped for want of a sufficient number to proceed to business in the lower. One was a bill for regulating the collection &c of the customs, the other for paying British debts by installments. I do believe the true reason was a severe frost had closed up the river, & prevented 8 members, who lodged at Manchester, from crossing the Water on Wednesday last, to make up the necessary number of members. These gentlemen were known friends to both Bills which have fallen thus; But the world at large will not probably know this circumstance.
A seemingly fixed purpose, and which is generally adopted, promises great and valuable improvements in our inland navigation. I hope our country will ever long assume a new appearance from that attention which is given to our uncommon natural advantages. Indeed Virginia seems to me to concentre within its limits natural benefits not only enough to render her own people happy, but can also contribute largely to make her neighbors so, by inviting them to a participation. You know too much of our geography to need particular enumerations or explanations. Acts for clearing Potowmack and James Rivers, and opening a canal from the Carolina waters to those of Elizabeth, are passed without opposition, and to the general satisfaction.
Tobo is down to 36/—but from hearing of high prices in Ireland &c, we are induced to expect the price here will rise. Our other produce sells well, and generally our people I think must feel themselves able to pay taxes. One half the last tax payable this year, is done away. You know by frequent postponing we accumulated the demands for this year.
With every sentiment of Regard and esteem I am, Dear sir, your humble servant,
P. Henry. The Hon. Richard Henry Lee, in Congress.
Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1788-11-15
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 2: 428.
Transcription
Dear Sir: Richmond, Novr 15, 1788.
I postponed answering your favor until I could have the pleasure of congratulating you on your election to the office of senator for Virginia in the new congress, which I now do. The friends of the system are much displeased that Mr. Madison was left out of the choice. They urged his election most warmly, claiming as a sort of right the admission of one Federal member; but in vain—For to no purpose must the efforts of Virginia have been expected to procure amendments, if one of her senators had been found adverse to that scheme. The universal cry is for amendments, & the Federals are obliged to join in it; but whether to amuse, or conceal other views seems dubious. You have been too long used to political measures not to see the grounds of this doubt, and how little dependance can be placed on such occasional conformity, and you know too well the value of the matters in contest to trust their safety to those whose late proceedings, if they do not manifest enmity to public liberty, yet show too little solicitude or zeal for its preservation.
Your age and mine seems to exempt us from the task of stepping forth again into the busy scenes which now present themselves—I am glad to know that you have health and spirits enough to decline no exertion. I shall not claim it further than it will extend to distant operations. I mean not to take any part in deliberations held out of this state, unless in Carolina, from which 1 am not very distant and to whose politics I wish to be attentive. If congress do not give us substantial amendments, I will turn my eyes to that country a connection with which may become necessary for me as an individual. I am indeed happy where I now live in the unanimity which prevails on this subject; for in near 20 adjoining countys I think at least 19/20ths are antifederal, and this great extent of country in Virginia lays adjoining to No Carolina, and with her forms a great mass of opposition not easy to surmount. This opposition it is the wish of my soul so see wise, firm, temperate. It will scarcely preserve the latter eipthet longer than congress shall hold out the hope of forwarding ammendments. I really dread the consequences following from a conduct manifesting in that body, an aversion to that system. I firmly believe the American union depends on the success of amendments. God grant I may never see the day when it shall be the duty of whiggish Americans to seek for shelter under any other government than that of the United States. The old charges of turbulence and ambition have been plentifully bestowed on me. You have not escaped; but as to us who have so long been accustomed to despise these attempts, they will have little effect further than to excite pity.
I have no correspondencys at present on the subject of politics. For that Reason I beg you will now and then drop me a line when you may find leisure. The progress of things under the new government in its commencement, will be highly interesting and important to be known. Letters addressed to the care of George Fleming Esq. in this city will reach me.
After expressing my ardent wishes for your welfare and success in your late appointment, and every other circumstance, I beg leave to tell you of the high esteem and regard with which I am, Dear Sir, Affectionately yours,
P. Henry. Honorable R. H. Lee, Esq.
Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1789-08-28
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 3: 397.
Transcription
Dear Sir: P. Edward, August 28th 1789.
As I have had occasion to address a joint letter to you & the other gentn from Virga, I could not let slip the opportunity of writing to you tho’ but briefly, as the Business of the district Court presses on me just now. I have rec’d both of your favors, although’ they were long on the Road. I am very sorry to perceive that the malice of Genl Martin’s Enemies has carried them so far as to charge him with exciting the Indians to war. I am satisfied there’s not any truth in the charge. Tis a pity the affair was not fully discussed. As to my opinion of the Amendments, I think they will tend to injure rather than serve the cause of liberty—provided they go no further than is proposed as I learn. For what good end can be answered by Rights, the tenure of which must be during pleasure. For Rights, without having power & might is but a shadow. Now it seems that it is not proposed to add this force to the Rights by any amendments. It can therefore answer no purpose but to lull Suspicion to talk on the subject. While Impediments are cast in the way of those who wish to retrench the exorbitancy of power granted away by the constitution from the people, a fresh grant from them is made in the first moments of opportunity, & of a nature and extent too which full success in the Business of amendments could scarcely compensate. I mean the uncontrolled power .of the President over the officers. See how rapidly power grows, How slowly the means of curbing it. That the president is to be accountable for the general success of government is precisely the principle of every Despotism— because if we look to him for success in every department he must have power over them, & having that power, which is necessary to secure success, he is ipso facto, a despot. Being so far from the seat of intelligence I can tell you nothing worth your hearing. Your letters, always acceptable, are more particularly so at this important time. May you long continue the friend and support of your country’s best interests, and enjoy every good thing, is the sincere wish of, dear sir, Your Affectionate friend and Servant,
P. Henry. The Honble Richard Henry Lee of the Senate at New York.
Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1790-01-29
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 3: 412.
Transcription
Dear Sir: P. Edward, Virga. Jan 29th 1790.
After thanking you, as I do most sincerely, for your communications previous to your recess, I beg leave again to trouble you on the subject of General Martin’s application for the agency of Indian affairs to the south. This I do at his most earnest request. Indeed the allegations against him seem to call for some vindication of his conduct, which would be easily effected but for the great distance from the seat of government. You will see by the papers which I inclose that he has brought on an enquiry into his conduct, & how it has terminated, and that Govr Martin has written to the President in his favor, and has sent to General Martin a copy of what he wrote. I shall here relate the substance of his communication to me when I was last in the Executive, and while he acted as superintendant for this state of Indian affairs. He [General Martin] informed me McGilvray had several times sent him word to make him a visit and carry on a correspondence, and at length wrote him a letter, which he put into my hands, the substance of which was as above. He desired my opinion on the matter. I encouraged him so far to cultivate McGilvray as, if possible, to fathom his views and keep the Indians from our people; at the same time by means of the Indians or others to discover the extent and nature of McGilvray’s connections with the Spaniards. I am satisfied Mr Martin proceeded on this Idea: for he quickly satisfied me of the Spanish policy respecting the Indians, sending me a commission given to a Creek Indian by the Spanish governor constituting him an officer. How necessary it must be to discover these and similar practices with the Indian tribes, it is easy to see; & that the interest of the U. States and of this state required, that McGilvray’s ill designs, if he had any, should be turned against him. General Martin’s conduct so far as I could discern in that affair was really praiseworthy. He frequently gave me intelligence of Creek Indian affairs, and of the intercourse between other Indians and the Spaniards that was interesting. I am satisfied the correspondence as above took its origin as I have stated, and that General Martin in no respect turned it to the prejudice of any American state or citizen, on the contrary that he made it subservient to the purpose of gaining useful intelligence. How cruel then is it thus to blast the Reputation of a public servant, whose employment in a peculiar manner exposed him to the hatred and malevolence of the many intruders on Indian rights, and these indeed I believe he has constantly opposed, as they are constantly attacking him in one shape or other.
Pardon me sir, for reiterating this affair. I mean never to say any more of it; but General Martin asks it of me as a piece of justice to his character, and that which no other person could so properly state as myself.
If any other correspondence ever existed between Martin and McGilvray I never knew it, or had the least reason to suspect that the former swerved from his duty in it, but on the contrary had the best views as I think. As I troubled you formerly on this subject I thought it best through you to say thus much in justification of one to whom I do think great injustice has been done respecting this affair.
I wish it were in my power to tell you of any thing by way of news worth your hearing. I live too much secluded, & at this season there is but little intercourse here. No doubt you will hear of me or my doings in the Georgia purchase. All the companies together get 15,000,000 acres it is said. I am a partner in one, and I own to you that some late occurrences in politics first suggested the thought. For if our present system grows into tyranny is not a frontier possession most eligible? and a central one most to be dreaded? Is the seat of federal government desirable in any other view than the goodness of that government? I do indeed suppose that these speculations of mine relate to times when you and I shall be gone off the stage; but it is natural for us both to feel anxiety for our numerous families, besides the concern common to every citizen. I am refining perhaps too much, & looking to a period too distant in my estimate of things. This last can be known only by beholding and mixing with the actors in the principal scenes of Business. A comfortable prospect of the issue of the new system would fix me here for life. A contrary one sends me southwestward. It may be that in some leisure moment you may give me your thoughts on our public affairs and their tendencies. In the business of the lately proposed amendments I see no ground to hope for good, but the contrary. Your friends think themselves under great obligations to you for your noble exertions, although they were not successful. Make my best regards to my friend, your son Ludwell, when you see him. I did not know his abilities till of late, or I should have congratulated you sooner on having such a son. His modesty concealed them: but his sweetness of disposition will enhance them. Adieu my dear sir and believe me your friend and servant
P. Henry. To the Hon. Richd Henry Lee.
P. S. I have just received a copy of an act of assembly of North Carolina for ceding to congress all the territory on the western waters, or nearly all, together with the people. So many reservations of land rights are contained in the act, that I fancy little will remain for congress. But indeed I am astonished at the depravity which marks this transaction. Careful as they have been to save all just rights (& I believe more) in the lands, they have violated every right of citizenship; for, as I hear, no convention of the people ceded was had to consult on the subject of this transfer, but they and their country are voted away to congress by a majority of the legislature of the old state. In this the district ceded had comparatively a very small number. If this proceeding is countenanced by congress, it will form a precedent alarming as I think, and strongly tending to establish this belief, that state governments are not to be trusted: Besides the invitation it will give to intrigue and faction. But if congress accept the cession will they not sanction the most manifest violation of rights that can be committed. For expatriation of a part of the community is not a power included among those exercised by assemblys in America convened for ordinary legislation. If then the act of cession is unconstitutional can congress derive any right under it.
I hear the number of people ceded is more than 20,000 of all ages; perhaps near 30,000.
Author(s)
Henry, Patrick
Recipient(s)
Lee, Richard Henry
Date Created
1790-02-08
Printed In
William Wirt Henry, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, and Speeches (1891), 3: 415.
Transcription
Dear Sir: P. Edward, Feb. 8th 1790.
A few days ago I wrote you a letter of some length; and among other things I mentioned Genl. Martin, and his affairs about which I have given you so much trouble. It is with reluctance I mention his business so often. It should have ended with the first mention of it, had not accusations against him been brought forth. It seemed necessary for his vindication and in some measure for those who had recommended him, that the charges should be refuted. You should have been spared the Trouble of this had I not entirely forgot to enclose in my last the papers I now send herewith. I beg you to make just such use of them as may serve to wipe away the aspersions thrown on the person intended to be ruined in the public opinion. You will find the same party also endeavoured to ruin his son, Wm Martin, by accusing him of joining the Indians in their murdering parties. Will you be so good as to communicate what relates to Genl. Martin to our Friend Col. Grayson, as also the Hints I drop on the subject of the No. Carolina cession. The more I think of this the more dangerous it appears. I am told the people ceded are 30,000 Souls. Some say more, and some less. These people placed under a military Government together with the troops which may and will be placed there, will give energy and Force to northern councils in a part of the country very convenient for the Views of consolidation, if such shall govern. The Geography of the place renders the proceeding dangerous in the extreme to this country and to all the southern states. These observations go not to the Right of ceding a people to congress with their consent signified in a constitutional way, to wit: by a free convention of the people. Whether our Rulers will deem this Right of the people to be consulted on such an Occasion worth preserving, or whether it shall with so many other popular Rights be yielded up, I know not. But to me it is evident that the Right in question is one of the most valuable. Indeed without its full admission it seems no political Right whatever can exist. My conjecture is that the leading characters in the district are silenced by the receipt, or expectation, of certain things more flattering than the struggle for Rights, which promise nothing but an equality, which ambition abhors—a precedent of cession like the present will go great lengths by and by.
Whenever you have leisure to touch upon this Point, or upon any other, you will give me very high gratification.
I am, Dear Sir, Your Friend & servant,
P. Henry. Honble R. H. Lee, Esq.
N. B. If this cession is permitted, the country from the lakes to Georgia is under Congressional power. Is not this cause of alarm?