Comments on Knox's Militia Plan
| Source | Name | Image(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Collection | Printed Version only |  |
| Publication | Smith, Paul H., et al, eds. Letters of Delegates to Congress, 1774-1789. 24 Vols. to date. Washington, DC: US Government Printing Office, 1976- . | (no image) |
| Date | May 12, 1786 |
|---|---|
| Author Name | David Ramsay (primary) Location: New York |
| Recipient Name | Henry Knox (primary) |
| Summary | Ramsay offers his comments on Knox's plan for the organization of the militia which Knox had recently submitted to Congress |
| Document Format | Letter |
| Document Notes | Ramsay was chairman of a Congressional committee to organize the militia. |
| Content Notes | [not available] |
| Related Persons/Groups | Henry Knox; David Ramsay; militia; ; |
| Related Places | New York; |
| Keywords | plan for the militia; time; expense; defense; impracticable; ; |
| Key Phrases | [not available] |
| Transcription | Sir, I have perused your plan for the militia with great pleasure. I only fear that our governments are too relaxed to bear any system which will be attended with so much time and expence. It is so well calculated for defence that foreigners will not dare to molest us; but it is a query with me whether our youth would not be so fond of a military life as to be tempted to act offensively against our neighbors. I think it is excellent in theory but I fear the supiness of our citizens would make its execution impracticable. I have the honor to be your most obedt sert., David Ramsay |