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My dear Sir,
I have now been here nearly one week, and nothing of importance has been decided upon, owing to the contrariety of sentiments concerning the powers vested in Congress to raise troops, in time of peace, for any purpose. There appears but one sentiment respecting the necessity of having troops for the frontiers ; but the difficulty is, how to obtain them. The Southern States are generally of opinion that the Confederation vests Congress with sufficient powers for this purpose ; but the Eastern States are of a different opinion. The eastern Delegates are willing to recommend the raising troops for the western posts. But the gentlemen from the southward say this would be giving up a right, which is of importance to preserve, and they cannot consent to recommend, when they ought to require ; so that, from this cause, it is to be feared that there will not be any troops raised; and there are many difficulties as to sending those which are raised, and at West Point, &c. I shall stay until the point is finally decided, or until Congress adjourn, provided it be on the 3d of next month, as it is agreed.
I am, &c.,
More Resources
- Henry Knox
- Source:
- Correspondence of the American Revolution; Being Letters of Eminent Men to George Washington, from the Time of His Taking Command of the Army to the End of His Presidency, Volume IV., Jared Sparks, 1853
