Writes that he received Knox's letter and the enclosure for Mr. Short, but it arrived too late to give to Mrs. Swan as she left for Paris. Wishes her a safe journey. Also reports that Mr. Swan wrote to him and seems to be doing well; promises to tell Knox more when Jackson visits New York on business that weekend.

Acknowledges receipt of Knox's last letter. Mentions current issues facing the military establishment, particularly regarding enlistment and pay. Also touches on military inspections, and tells Knox to expect a letter from Captain C[onstant] Freeman on the subject. Briefly mentions the price of State notes. Discusses the travel plans of Mrs. Swan, who will be meeting her husband in Paris. Hopes she will travel with some letters of introduction in case Mr. [James] Swan cannot meet her when she arrives.

Reports that Mrs. Swan, the wife of James Swan of Boston, will soon be leaving for France. She plans to meet her husband in Paris, but if he cannot meet her right away, would like to arrange for someone else to meet her as she is a stranger in that city. Recipient's name is illegible, but may be Mr. Short, and is listed as a Charges des affaires in Paris (see GLC02437.04619 for another reference to Mr. Short).

Jackson acknowledges receipt of Knox's letter of 24 October 1790 and was pleased to learn that Knox had arrived safely in New York. Jackson and others in Boston had received word of a coach accident that severely injured Mrs. Knox and some of their children. To the astonishment of every body, Governor Bowdoin is yet living, Jackson reports, for a week past every moment was supposed to be his last. Bowdoin is a good and valuable man, and his death will be much lamented by his family and the public at large. Jackson comments on the performance of Knox's horse, Boston, saying that Knox will not regret buying the horse. Lists items he is sending to Knox with Captain Barnard including cranberries for Mrs. Knox. Jackson remarks that he has heard nothing further respecting the Fish, and I think it will not do for me to make the first advances on that head.

Discusses the arrival of mutual friends, Mr. and Mrs. [James] Swan, in New York City. Shares the Swans' gratitude for the warm welcome Knox and his wife Lucy are showing them. Mentions steps he has taken to fill orders for military supplies, such as clothing for soldiers. Continues with military matters concerning the stationing of men throughout Massachusetts, as well as his attempts to recruit men. Also discusses his fears about Congress disbanding his regiment. Relates the appointment of delegates for the Federal Convention, including Francis Dana, Nathaniel Gorham, Caleb Strong, Rufus King and Elbridge Gerry. Finally, asks Knox to choose whether Major [William] North or Major [Elnathan] Haskell would be placed with his regiment, and goes on to explain how he plans to subdivide his regiment and who he may place in command.

Jackson fills Knox in on the latest news concerning people they know and their comings and goings. Mentions that Mrs. Swan might be accompany Mr. and Mrs. Howard through St. Georges.

Received his last letter, which contained an enclosure from Mr. [James] Swan. Is very happy to see from his letter that Knox has recovered from his illness, and thanks God for it. Also feels that Mr. [Elbridge] Gerry has chosen well to go into Congress, and will be a good member. Adds that he plans to go to Dorchester to visit their friend Ben [likely Benjamin Hichborn] to discuss some letters he recently received from France.