Apr 17, 2012 - Sale 2276

Sale 2276 - Lot 19

Price Realized: $ 13,200
?Final Price Realized includes Buyer’s Premium added to Hammer Price
Estimate: $ 4,000 - $ 6,000
"A SCOURGE TO GREAT BRITAIN, TO PUNNISH HER FOR HER INJUSTICE" GREENE, NATHANAEL. Autograph Letter Signed, "Nath Greene," as Major General, to Brigadier General George Weedon, expressing confidence that the British will soon sue for peace. 3 1/2 pages, folio; closed separations at folds and small holes at intersections. West Point [NY], 6 September 1779

Additional Details

a supremely confident letter from one of the top rebel generals. Inspired by news that Spain had just declared war and joined the fight, Greene is certain that Great Britain will "sue for the mediation of America, to bring about a peace. Was there ever a nation who barter'd away her territory in such a foolish maner. . . . Her pride and glory are droping like false blossoms in the spring." He predicts that "America will in the hand of heaven prove a scourge to Great Britain, to punnish her for her injustice, pride and cruelty." In command of the stronghold at West Point, he is sure the latest British reinforcements are "too small to enable General Clinton to drive us over the Allagany Mountains." He also discusses the great importance of Light-Horse Harry Lee's recent victory at Paulus Hook. Published in Papers of General Nathanael Greene, IV:364.