Bond declaring that James Sullivan of Boston owes Henry Knox of New York 900 pounds lawful money. Pertains to settling the Estate of the late Thomas Flucker, Knox's father-in-law. Signed by two witnesses, B. G. Amory and William Amory.

Informs he has persuaded the board of treasury to give orders on Mr. Imlay for [Dollar sign]3000, which Knox encloses in another public letter of this same date. States that if Wadsworth could negotiate [Dollar sign]1000 more, he will try to get the board to give that sum solely to be applied to the subsistence of the officers and the pay of the men of Colonel [David] Humphreys corps. The money being paid to Wadsworth was related to raising troops that were used to quell Shays' Rebellion. Writes that Congress will probably discuss the troops soon, it is most likely they must be reduced however keep this entirely a secret. Marked private.

Body of the letter and signature in the hand of Robert Pemberton, Knox's aide. Thanks him for his letters. Writes, The Zeal of the people of Boston and the lower country in favor of Government is a good sign, and will probably produce the events expected from it. Declares, however, that even if the current insurgency dies down, some measures will be necessary to prevent a repetition of it. Believes that the poor poor federal government is sick almost unto death. Mentions that a convention has been proposed by Virginia and several states with the intention to discuss reforms. Describes his philosophy on the structure of the government. Urges Higginson to encourage the state of Massachusetts to send delegates to the convention. Body of letter and signature penned for Knox by Robert Pemberton, his post-war aide.

Body of the letter and signature in the hand of Robert Pemberton, Knox's aide. Previous research determined the addressee to be James Sullivan, but the document does not indicate that explicitly. Knox discusses the settlement of the estate of Thomas and Hannah Flucker, the parents of his wife, Lucy, stating that he will formally authenticate a bond verifying monies owed to Mr. [likely Isaac] Winslow. He also comments on the insurgents in Massachusetts, and discusses in some detail the upcoming [federal] convention in Philadelphia, wondering whether its proceedings could be the basis of a new national government with a new constitution.

Marked copy on docketing. Shepard's name spelled Sheppard. Thanks him for his recent letters. Writes that there has not yet been a Congress able to proceed to business. Hopes that they will be organized this week, and can discuss the request of the Governor before Congress. Relates that as he said before, it is entirely out of my power, to appropriate any of the public arms or stores without an order of Congress. This also applies to the sale or loan of arms or stores. He agrees in principle with Shepard and wishes he could accommodate him. However, if the insurgents should demonstrate an intention of seizing the arsenal or any of the stores contained therein and it could not otherwise be successfully defended, I am of opinion that propriety & necessity would justify the action of taking part of the stores and ammunition for the defence of the remainder to be returned the instant the danger should subside.

Is anxious for Sargent to enter the military establishment in a manner agreable [sic] to your feelings, and if it was entirely up to him, Knox might create a special position just for him. Relates that Congress has directed a legionary corps to be raised, and he cannot alter arrangements which have already been made. Has always wished that the corps for artillery and engineers be the same, but it is up to Congress. Asks whether he might consider the office of Inspector of the Troops, which Major [William] North has resigned. Discusses what ranks and benefits Congress might associate with that office. Explains other offices that might be more suitable to Sargent than the office he has rejected, Captain of Artillery in the Massachusetts line. See GLC02437.03432 for Sargent's reply.

Writes that he is fully impressed with how busy Lincoln is (Lincoln was preparing to lead a regiment to face off against the Shays insurgents), but hopes that he would not mind giving him news of the battles in Massachusetts when possible. Writes, I do not request to know any thing which if divulged by miscarriage of letters would be in the least injurious - Any communications which shall be made shall be retained with me unless you should please to order otherwise. I trust to your friendship to excuse my request, wishing you every success. Body of letter and signature penned for Knox by Robert Pemberton, his post-war aide.