Joseph Johnson, letter, to Eleazar Wheelock, 1769 March
Date1769-03
Call Number769240.2
abstractJohnson asks to be discharged.
handwritingHandwriting is small and somewhat meandering, yet it is mostly clear and legible.
paperSmall single sheet appears to be torn from a larger sheet. It is in good condition, with light staining, creasing and wear.
inkBlack.
noteworthyJohnson appears to have written a random note on one verso. This document is possibly a draft or Johnson's copy.
Modernized Version Deletions removed; additions added in; modern spelling and capitalization added; unfamiliar abbreviations expanded.
Dwellings, and now desire with all humbleness of mind
that [illegible][guess: thy] not displeasure may not be risen against
me, although I have So much deserved it. most Honoured Sir,
I came up to petition to you my Ever Honoured Benefactor,
that as my mind is wholly Bent from here, that thou would
So much condescend as to discharge me from Under you
If you please, which being my great Concern that I might
first get you leave to tarry at my own home and get myself
in steady way of living. which without your leave I must
be always roving about, most honoured Sir, please to grant
this my humble petition, and I do now humbly desire to
Return you most hearty thanks for your many labours
of Love shown to me Since my Infancy and under your
most kind protection. I Acknowledge that they have been
many and great favours Indeed. and I also Acknowledge that
my Ingratitude and unthankfulness have Exceeded them.
and now Be pleased to forgive what I have done and bury
me in deep forgetfulness and Remember me no more,
seeing, I have done so much wickedness that I dare not
approach thy presence, O, be not angry with me for that,
But forgive what you have seen arise in you
Humble petitioner, and wicked Servant.
Joseph Johnson
The Ever Honoured Dr. Wheelock.
the book of the generation of Jesus
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