NELSON THOMAS Autograph Letter Signed Thos Nelson Jr as Brig

Sale 2276 - Lot 79

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SIGNER FROM VIRGINIA--FIRST OF 13 LETTERS NELSON, THOMAS. Autograph Letter Signed, "Thos Nelson Jr," as Brigadier General, to Brigadier General George Weedon, bemoaning Washington's rugged living conditions and political opposition at Valley Forge, and discussing smallpox among the troops. 4 pages, 4to, on a single folded sheet, with separate address sheet. Williamsburg [VA], 22 January 1778

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washington's "hutt at the valley forge." Thomas Nelson (1738-1789) had previously served in the Continental Congress, where he had signed the Declaration of Independence. Here he shares some current gossip. On the commander's headquarters: "It has been said with us that General Washington intended to make Wilmington his head quarters this winter, but I am told today that his hutt at the Valley Forge is nearly finished. Hard fate indeed that our commander in chief should be oblig'd to take up his winter quarters in an hutt, when the British general is provided with comfortable . . . fare in Philadelphia." In the wake of Gates's appointment to the Board of War, he adds, "I wish there was not reason to apprehend that parties are forming, not only in the camp but elsewhere, that may be attended with the most dreadful consequences to America, by obliging our great Commander to leave the army. Should such a thing take place, God only knows what would follow." He also reports on the terrible toll of smallpox among the troops, which is deterring recruitment. Quoted in Ward, Duty, Honor or Country, page 121.