Autograph Letter Signed

Secretary at War tenders resignation to President Washington

Knox submits his resignation from the office of Secretary at War to the President of the United States, George Washington.

1794

12

28

Philadelphia

George Washington

Henry Knox

Philadelphia

1794122800001

1

3

The President
of the United States

Letter of Gen Knox
President Washington
[undecipherable]
of the War Department
Philadelphia 28th December 1794
Sir
In pursuance of the verbal communications heretofore submitted, it is with the utmost respect, that I beg leave officially To request, you will please to confides that after the last day of the present month and year my services as Secretary for the department of War will cease.
I have endevored to place the business of the department in such a train that my successor may without much difficulty commence the duties of his Station. Any expectations, or assistance which he may require than be cordially afforded by me.
After serving proud my Country nearly twenty years, the g[undecipherable] of which under your immediate auspices
auspices [entire line undecipherable--page cut off]
myself constained to withdraw from so honorable a situation
But the indispensbile claims of a wise and a young and numbers family of children whose sole hopes of comfortable competence rest upon my life and exertions, with no longer permit me to neglect duties so sacred.
But in whatever situation I have so, I shall recollect your confidence and kindness with all the fever and purity of affection of which a grateful sevt can be susceptible
I have the honor Sir to be with the highest respect Your most obedient Servant
HoKnox
The President
of the United States.