Was disappointed not to have received word from Knox on how to proceed with their canal project. Is waiting to put their plans into action. Discusses a new company, led by a Colonel Worthington, which is being formed to cut a canal in the Connecticut River. Talks about the legislature's meetings to discuss the land purchases in the Waldo patent in Maine. Relates a conversation he had with Isaac Winslow about the patent lands; Winslow writes that he is in no hurry to settle. Provides information on land deals with several others, including Mr. [Richard] Soderstrom and Mr. [William] Tudor.

Provides an update on the Committee's debates regarding the Waldo patent lands. Comments on Knox's request that he purchase the portion of the town of Trenton belonging to Colonel Jones. Reports his happiness at seeing the reasons for the Indian War published. Discusses the reenlistment of soldiers in the army; many soldiers who served during the Revolutionary War will not reenlist unless they are promoted. Explains that Major Jack Tyler, who served 1777-1779, would like to serve again, but only as a major. Describes Tyler's virtues and his current circumstances. Requests appointments for several other officers. Mentions his disappointment at Knox's unwillingness to bring forward the business of the Canal, and recounts discussions he has had with Colonel Ben[jamin Hichborn] and others on the subject. Argues strongly for proceeding with the canal project, and hopes to put Knox's name at the top of all applications and business plans for the endeavor.

Updates Knox on the status of the canal project, and informs him that the Bill of Incorporation for it has passed in the House of Representatives and soon should pass in the Senate. Declares that the project has popular support. Also mentions debate in the Committee over a Joint Report, and adds that Benjamin Hichborn represented their interests well. Intends the next day to purchase four townships in the Waldo patent lands, as they had discussed. Lastly, declares that he was offered the position of Major General, and would like to know whether Knox thinks he should accept. Sends his love to Knox's family.

Discusses possible amendments to the General Court's bill approving their canal project. Mentions his attempts to outbid Mr. [William] Tudor on a million acres of land (in Maine, in or near the Waldo patent lands). Also comments on the financial woes of [William] Duer, and how they are causing panic among the public. Relates that Dr. [William] Eustis has visited him that morning, who should be able to write Knox soon to accept his new appointment.

Received his recent letters regarding the purchase of lands in Maine. Discusses plans for their canal project. Comments on his land purchasing plans, declaring that Jackson's offering price is a bit high. Makes a variety of business arrangements.

Informs Knox that Mr. Cazenove is absent, but is expected this day. all negotiations are suspended until you & he arrives - Extensively discusses business regarding their land holdings especially in regards to Mr. William Duer.

Informs Knox that he, along with Mr. Whitmore and cousin Isaac, presumably Winslow, appeared before a committee chaired by John Gardner to discusses a report described in his last letter (dealing with a petition of Knox's in relation to the Waldo patent lands, see GLC02437.04500). The issue involved a resolve in 1785 where the years 1775 and 1785 were confused. Mentions the presence of Nathan Dane, Nathaniel Gorham, Knox's friend Ulmer from Duck Trap, among others. Jackson concludes the issue by stating that chairman Gardner told him that he was deceived by the men on the other side of the argument, Thomas and Brown, and he is now well informed - and you may rest assured they have damned themselves, and everything will be concluded to our wishes. Comments that tomorrow is the celebration of President George Washington's birthday. States that Mr. Hoffmann could not be persuaded to stay any longer and that if he (Jackson) was newly married, he would do the same.