Henry Knox to Lucy Knox Affirming His Faith in America and Discussing French Involvement in the War, 6 April 1777

Book excerpt: Loves her and acknowledges her letter. Tries to assuage her fears about the war, smallpox, and his distance from her. Assures her that General Howe is not driving us thro' the Jersies into Pennsylvania. Discusses the character and rank of the recently arrived French officers. Says France will not enter the war, but will trade, and will defend that Commerce by force. Is confident that Britain will try to disrupt this trade. Proclaims that he is sure it is the Will of High Heaven that America should be great, and that is why a powerful brave army...headed by a man of genius does not worry him as much as it otherwise would. America may not deserve to be great, based on her actions so far, her actions are only lacking because her enemy's only greatness is a total debauch of morals. Referring to the British he says let them alone say you. I will for I believe that God has left them alone. Again says that he loves her, and wishes her and William Knox his best. Some text lost in the last paragraph.