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Signer of the United States Constitution from Maryland and the namesake of Fort McHenry (1753–1816) who also served as a delegate to the Continental Congress from Maryland, and the third United States Secretary of War. Unsigned handwritten draft of a fascinating philosophical letter by James McHenry, one page both sides, 7.75 x 13, May 15, 1799. Handwritten draft of a letter to Hugh Williamson, a fellow signer of the United States Constitution, commenting on the invention and use of gunpowder in warfare. In full: "I received your letter of the 9th of Febry ulto. relative to the best proportions for making gun-powder. 'Assist me, as Pliny says in his letter to Tranquillus, in settling my doubts.' A Philosopher, by accident if you please, discovers a powder, which if inflamed and properly managed, will blow up a ship, or destroy an army; and having fully ascertained the qualities of his powder publishes his discovery to the world. Another philosopher, in a different age, and let us suppose a moral and religious man, after long researches and numerous chemical experiments finds out a mode of doubling the destructive effects of this powder, and causes his experiments and discovery to be published in all the magazines and news-papers. A warrior who knows nothing about philosophy, and who would never have troubled his head about such experiments, but withal a moral and religious man (for there have been such military characters) employs this powder successfully in destroying armies and blowing up ships loaded with men. Which of these two distinguished personages, the philosopher or warrior are we to rank among the benefactors of mankind? Has my good Doctor, Philosophy descended from heaven, only to open new and more numerous avenues to death?
Is it a substantiated fact that wars have been come less frequent & that fewer men have been killed in battles since the discovery of gun-powder, and that the discovery of this powder has been the cause of their being less frequent and less destructive? It is out of my power at this time, to do any thing for the young gentlemen you have recommended for military appointments." In fine condition. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from University Archives.
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