Henry Jackson To Henry Knox Regarding The Sale Of Lands In Maine 19 June 1791

Wrote Knox by the last post and included a copy of his letter to the legislative committee that is managing the sale of the lands in Maine. Reports the Legislature had directed the Committee to negotiate for two Million of Acres - this was a great point gained. Says the tract they have in Contemplation is the extreme left flank of the state and will not permit us to come within six miles of Penobscot River, besides which we dislike their reserving a tract of thirty miles by six. Says they had a conference with the committee where it was reported that they wanted to reserve the land between the Kennebec and Penobscot Rivers for retail and to accommodate their Childrens Children. Also the committee claims the six miles east of Penobscot is Indian land. Believes the committee knows as little about the quality of the land as they do. Claims many say the lands between the Penobscot and Schooduck Rivers are the best for agriculture. Also claims that many settlers on land between the Kennebec and Penobscot have taken up and moved eastward. Will learn as much as he can about the land they are to buy. Will give the committee their proposal for the mode of payment. Says it was best not to bring up an application this Session with respect to Foreigners.