Later copy of a letter from Washington to Knox, discussing America's relationship with the the Indians and British involvement in these affairs. Also discusses the Society of the Cincinnati and a construction project involving limestone. Copy made 9 August 1855.

Apologizes for not being able to visit her due to his job obligations but states that he will as soon as he can. Mentions that something has occured relatively to the southern Indians which would seem to open new sources of difficulty. Discusses the children and future plans. Ends by stating, The President [George Washington] is buried in solitude at Mount Vernon - I write no more to him than is indispensible in order to prevent trouble.

Addressed to General Stephens. (Possibly to General Adam Stephen, whose name is often misspelled Stephens.) Discusses Indian policy, stating [t]he affairs of the Cherokee Indians are peculiarly perplexed, and require a stronger arm to put them into a proper train than is proposed the present government ... Mentions a previous treaty with Congress made in 1785. States that he is happy Stephens approves of the new government, and writes it seems the only mean[s] to avoid the horror and miseries of the weakness of our present situation - New Hampshire, Massachusetts & Connecticut - New Jersey Pennsylvania and Delaware will probably adopt it before the duration of the month of Jany. I hope that Virginia will relish it better than it is reported she does at present. Finishes by stating, A war between France and England seems inevitable and great probability of a general war in Europe.

Countersigned by Henry Knox. Instructs Knox regarding his conduct (notes that the principles imparted are to remain secret). Indicates that the Government of the United States are determined that their administration of Indian Affairs shall be directed with justice and humanity. Refers to Knox's negotiations with the Creeks. Text is obscured due to a large water stain on page two.

Offers his opinion as to the position proper for Winter Quarters. Argues that winter quarters are indispensably necessary for Continental troops. Suggests that quarters be established at a distance from the British (who occupy Philadelphia). Writes, Could a place be found about 30 miles distant from & North or NW of Philadelphia in which it was possible to quarter the troops I should prefer it to a greater distance, or different direction as by it we should be able to cover a greater extent of Country than by taking post at Wilmington ... Hopes to establish winter quarters in such a position as to prevent the British from drawing supplies from the countryside. Suggests that Lancaster should be right of, and Reading left of, winter quarters. Notes that General [John] Muhlenberg also has a proposal for a winter location. In the hand of William Knox. Retained copy.