Discusses appointments by the state legislature, which is currently in session, and a recent speech given by the President (George Washington). Notes Speaker Eustis (likely referring to William Eustis who was a member of the Massachusetts Legislature from 1788 to 1794) and others are well acquainted with the petition and will meet it. Writes that his father's health is no longer as it was and that he will not last much longer. States that he is 83 years of age; and my good mother is 82 she appears to be as well as I have known her this twenty years, they have lived together near 60 years in such cases one seldom out lives the other any considerable time.

Writes that his father passed away the day before, stating that he was calm & resigned, and died in full faith of perfect happiness in the world of spirits - this was a great consolation to my honored mother & to his Children & friends around him - my aged mother is very much afflicted, and cannot reconcile the separation they having live'd together fifty eight years last month, and but very little apart during that period - Goes on to discuss matters regarding the raising of troops and a possible appointment in the military, though he states but why do I mention QMG [Quarter Master General] - I am not anxious to be a soldier at my time of life... Also discusses the will of his late father and how the estate is to be divided.

Complains about the increased distance between them but says if they continue to write on Sundays, we shall hear from each other the middle of every week. Worries Knox's new and unfurnished house might cause illnesses in his family during this time of year. Discusses Knox's wallpaper and the severe weather in Boston. Mentions that [Sylvanus] Bourne is choosen Fed-Rep for the County of Plymouth. Says he has found a relief in his head by bleeding and regular diet. Also expects that exercise and temperance will help him fully recuperate. Writes, by every Vessell from Europe the appearance of War is more & more favorable - many are of opinion that a War will ruin this Country, but for my part I am for runing the risque of it. I think it will open new objects, and be the source of great wealth to this Country.

Acknowledges receipt of Knox's favor of the [November 7] (inclosing [Samuel] Shaw and [Thomas] Randall's Bill, and Mr. [Sylvanus] Bourne's Note). Complains of a chronic disagreeable feeling in my head. To treat this, his doctor bled me in my right Arm. Free stamped on address leaf with no signature.

Discusses his visits to friends and the most violent snow storm we have had since the year 1780 ... Expresses his concern on not hearing from Knox, as never since our acquaintance first took place, do I remember such an instance as the present - it is now more than a month since you wrote me ... I am my dear Harry really at a loss, indeed I cannot conjecture the reason why I am forgotten - and I assure you I shall continue very unhappy and distress'd until this matter is explained - I have writen [sic] you every Sunday since you left Boston and shall continue so to do and I pray you to do the same, and in the case we shall hear from each other by every Wednesdays mail, and altho we are one hundred miles farther distant from each other we shall receive Letters once a week as usual - Mentions information regarding interaction between Spain and England.

Discusses a dispute between mutual friends Mr. Tracy and Mr. Gibbs. Reports attending the funeral of Miss Abigail Otis, daughter of Mr. S[amuel] A[llyne] Otis, Massachusetts politician and Secretary of the U.S. Senate. Miss Otis was a lovely young girl of sixteen who died of consumption. Provides news of other illnesses in his family, including the imminent passing of his father. Reports that his mother is in good spirits considering the illness of his father, and that they have passed nearly sixty years together.

Discusses a mutual friend's financial troubles and the need for every exertion to be made on his behalf. Mentions a general meeting of delegates that may be held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Asks Knox to inform him if he believes the business at the meeting will not be attended to. Describes the dissatisfaction many former officers are feeling as they still have not received any pay for their services to the government. There is a meeting being held regarding their situation and he has been asked to join it. Notes he feels the officers complaints are just but the timing is wrong. Mentions, according to the Constitution, that tomorrow is the first day for electing the governor and senators. Discusses the candidates running for office. Says the House of Representative will be discussing a bill regarding the South Western frontiers on Thursday. Notes the President's (George Washington) signature is still needed on the Bill.