Thanks Knox for a letter recently received. Offers condolences to Knox for his recent losses (three of Knox's children died 1796-1797, including his seven year old son named after George Washington). Washington complains of those who lack confidence in and have criticized his leadership, stating that they will be satisfied with nothing short of a change in our political system. Writes that he looks forward to the prospect of retirement, but is not without my regrets at parting with (perhaps never more to meet) the few intimates whom I love, among these, be assured you are one. Has heard, through Mr. Bingham, that Knox is doing well in Maine (Knox retired in 1795 to Montpelier, his estate in Thomaston, Maine). After retirement, expects to be occupied in rural amusements, and not to travel more than twenty miles from Mount Vernon. Hopes his friends and colleagues will visit him. Relates that in two days, on 4 March, he will leave his position as President, and shall witness the inauguration of his successor, John Adams. Declines to say more about politics, and sends his and Martha's good wishes to Knox and his family. Docketed twice, one of them being an extensive Henry Knox autograph endorsement.

Later copy of a letter by Washington condoling Knox on the death of his son. Copied 3 February 1854 according to note at top of first page.

Initialed by Knox. Thanks Washington for his sympathy regarding the death of his son. States The arrow with [which we were] stricken is indeed barbed with the keenest anguish. Says that neither reason nor philosophy has had their proper effect.

Informs Washington of the death of his infant son, Washington's godson. Knox's retained draft.

Mentions the loss of two children and settling into his new home and the surrounding area. Also discusses Washington's retirement and the threat of war with France, there will be no danger of the French attempting an invasion of our country. If they should we must resist... Regarding the slave revolt in Santo Domingo, he says: The whites will either starve or be murdered by the blacks. Noted as a draft in the docket. Knox's retained draft.

Thanks Knox for his sympathetic letter concerning the death of his son, John George Washington Hancock, who was only nine years old. Discusses his pursuit of health and states traveling was recommended to him during this trying time, Journeying is much Recommended to me, & as my Situation is totally deranged by the untimely Death of my Dear & Promising Boy, I have no Affectionate object to promise myself the Enjoyment of what I leave.... He is making a 10 day trip to New York City and Philadelphia with his wife. Asks Knox to engage such Lodgings in an Airy place, as you shall Judge will be suitable for Mrs. Hancock & myself & three servants; I wish for a decent parlour, or two parlours, an handsome well furnished Chamr. for us, & decent Rooms for my Servants, for they Lodge & Eat at home as well as I do myself - Docketed by Knox noting that he found rooms for the Hancocks.

Writes, Mr Izard has just put the enclosed letter from Genl Pinckney into my hands what with pleasure I communicate to you.