Later copy of a letter from Washington to Knox, advising Knox in detail on how he might arrange for the Defense of the Western Territories. Also congratulates Knox on becoming Secretary at War, discusses Congress' plans for the Western Territories and the British presence in these areas. The end of the last page is attached and extends beyond the document. Copy made 3 February 1854.

Comments on a recent trip Washington took to his western lands. Expresses relief that Washington did not travel as far west as he originally planned due to the indians being in a bad temper. Referring to settlers on Washington's lands, writes You must have been chagrined to have found your Lands possessed by a... people who hold in contempt equity- the first principle of Society. Discusses disunity among the states, writing, We are entirely destitute of those traits which should Stamp us one nation- and the Constitution of Congress does not seem to promise any capital alteration for the better. Reports on his tour with General Benjamin Lincoln to the eastern line of Massachusetts (present-day Maine, in the area of Passamaquoddy Bay). Writes, We went to the eastern line of this State, and found that the british have made excessive encroachments upon our territories. Contains two dockets, one on the first page and another in pencil on page four.

Congratulates Knox on his appointment (on March 8, 1785) to the post of Secretary at War. Encloses a certificate of service for Major Sergeant (not included). Hopes to receive limestone for use in construction. Discusses the Virginia Assembly's appropriation of shares intended for him (Washington) in navigation of the Potomac and James Rivers. Referring to Knox's new position as Secretary at War, mentions the Western Territory, Great Britain, and military posts near Detroit. Suggests Fort Pitt or Fort McIntosh as posts of deposits from which other forts may draw supplies. Discusses specific locations in the Great Lakes region in relation to the fur trade, including Miami Village and Fort (near Lake Erie, Lake Michigan, and the Ohio River). Writes, My opinion of the matter is, that I have described a sufficient extent of Country to answer all our present purposes; beyond which, neither Settlements nor Locations of Land ought to be admitted... Argues that allowing settlement farther west would weaken the frontiers. Suggests the creation of a post at the confluence of the Great Kanawha and Ohio Rivers. Offers suggestions for the specific distribution of 700 men between Fort Pitt, Miami Fort, the Falls of the Ohio, and at the confluence of the Great Kanawha and Ohio Rivers. Reports a recent visit from Mrs. Macauly Graham (possibly Catherine Sawbridge Macaulay Graham) and Mr. Graham. Docketed in Knox's hand.

Later copy. Duplicate of a portion of GLC02437.03220, a letter by Knox. Discusses the troops at Forts Pitt and McIntosh, as well as treaty negotiations with the Indians. Calculations in blue pencil on verso.

Document in Samuel Shaw's hand, and signed by Shaw for Knox, giving Knox's opinion on several questions posed by Washington. Writes, ...it would be a most criminal degree of madness to hazard a general action at this time with the enemy, as by it we might lose every advantage which a three years war, combined with many fortunate circumstances, have given to America. Suggests the Continental Army remain at Valley Forge until the British completely evacuate Philadelphia. Does not advise a detachment to be sent to reinforce Continental troops in New Jersey. Gives advice for securing the sick and stores if the Continental Army should have to immediately evacuate their position at Valley Forge.

Sending Knox in an attempt to keep New Jersey from forming a separate army.

Discusses trade between Indians and the British stationed on the American side of the territorial line (in the Northwest Territory). Reports criticism of the Society of the Cincinnati, including a pamphlet, Considerations sur l'ordre de Cincinnatus, by Honor Gabriel Riqueti, comte de Mirabeau. Refers to limestone previously discussed with Knox in relation to Washington's construction projects. Sends his best wishes to Knox, his wife Lucy, and their family.