Lucy Knox to Henry Knox about Her Inoculation, Fears of Her Brother and Henry Fighting, 13 April 1777

Book excerpt: Hopes Henry is thinking of her. Says that she is being inoculated for smallpox, but that a rash on her arm has slowed the process and led the doctor to give her more mercury. Worries about her health but says their daughter is doing quite well. Lucy's aunt is with her for now, but will soon be leaving to marry an old fellow. Says that she is planning to join him soon in Morristown, commenting that since Mrs. Washington is there she feels she can be there too. Mentions news of troop movements. Hears her brother is in York but hopes he will come home soon. Worries that the war will force Henry to draw his sword upon my own - and only brother. Hears that even Colonel Webb cannot raise men using a bounty. Notes that Mr. Jarvis desires cash. In postscript says she is forwarding a letter to him from the famous Dutchess of Brotenburg, Princess of Frankfurt, and cousin of the queen of Great Britain. Brotenburg probably refers to Brandenburg. Worries that Peter will be forced to do the duty of common soldiers, and upset that William is leaving soon.