Henry Knox To Edward Carrington Regarding Nathanael Greenes Debts 7 February 1790 PDF Download

Provides an affidavit explaining why Nathanael Greene agreed to provide security for the debts of John Banks. Relates that in 1783, Robert Morris, Superintendent of Finance, asked Greene to arrange for the supply of provisions to the Southern Army when their existing contract expired. The only private contractor who would agree to negotiate with Greene was John Banks. Greene had no choice but to accept Banks' offer, even though he thought Banks' terms were too high, and the contract between Banks and the Southern Army commenced 20 February 1783. Greene later provided security for Banks' debts, and Carrington writes, I am satisfied, nay absolutely certain, that had Mr. Banks failed in this contract at the time General Greene became his security in the several instances in consequence whereof the Estate of that officer hath since suffered, nothing less than the dissolution of the Army must have followed, as no possible means of supporting it could have been adopted; no other contract could have been obtained... Adds that in some cases, soldiers in the Southern Army were openly defying officers, and a lack of provisions would have surely led to mutiny. Countersigned by William Foushee as a magistrate for the county. Originally included with GLC02437.04497.