Tells Knox he looks forward to his visit to Boston in the early summer. Updates Knox on various news from the Boston/New England area. Gives his opinion on the organization of the officers and warns Knox that the small salary allotted to the troops would make it difficult to obtain proper men for the service. Knox could look to the seaports and stragglers in the Country, but they will be the refuse of Creation. Mentions that Samuel Ogden left Boston for Philadelphia.

Jackson received Secretary of War Knox's letter of 10 April 1791. Comments on various military appointments and the recruits from Massachusetts. He says, the Officers in this Town have inlisted five or six but they are not such men as you want for the service. Mentions that gentlemen in the area are pleased that Knox has sent people to survey the area for the canal. Writes that Mr. Jonathan Jackson will try to hold both his appointments, that of Marshal, and in the Excise. Jackson does not approve. Gives his opinion to Knox about other candidates.

Acknowledges receipt of Knox's letter of 27 February 1791. Comments he is anxious in finding out about what appointments will be made and when. Notes he has heard many reports respecting raising troops but nothing concrete has taken place yet. We have had many reports with respect to raising of Troops &cc but nothing authenticate. a few days more, will bring this secret business to public view. Tells Knox that the Committee on Petitions from the Patent have reported, and after some alteration by your friends in the house it was accepted, but you have nothing to fear from it, they never can be able to effect their purpose... Thinks Knox should take up the issue of the Canal again, as the idea has many supporters. Notes that Samuel Ogden, after much trouble and anxiety, has finally finished his business with the State and is preparing to return to Philadelphia. Reports that no Major General has been chosen yet, but as the Governor's interest is opposd to me, on account of Cincin - &cc I shall have no expectation of succeeding.

Jackson thinks the salary for Office of Marshall for the District should increase to attract better candidates. Jackson considers himself a candidate and wishes for Knox to exert his influence on President George Washington. Jackson thinks the appointment will suit him because it requires outdoor activities and energy. He even tells Secretary of War Knox that if the salary is one penny, or one pound, he would still take it. He wants to avoid indoor business. Jackson is depending on Knox and admits he is disappointed that Knox has not come through for him sooner on this matter.

Offers his assistance in appointing officers to the army. States, I believe but few are so well acquainted with the late Officers of the American Army as I am, and I do assure you, I should have been highly gratified to have assisted you in the late arrangement... Says he cannot account for [John] Doughty declining the appointment as Lt. Colonel Commander. (See GLC02437.04875 and .4891 for related documents.) Knox has asked Jackson how he feels about his position in the 2nd Regiment. Admits he exceedingly dislike[s] his situation but he does not believe that being Lieutenant Colonel Commander would make him any happier. Updates Knox on news from Boston and gives his opinion on various commanding officers such as Captain Nathaniel Stowe who commands a good ship but would leave her to have the command of a Company. Again tells Knox that you will find it difficult to recruit the Man in this quarter on the encouragement given, and it is the most unfavorable season of the year to Beat the Drum. Hopes Ogden returned to Philadelphia safely and is currently enjoying Knox's company. Talks of the success of the lottery. The Lottery is very rich as you will observe by the State of the Wheel in the inclosed paper. Joseph Peirce is disappointed in not hearing from you respecting the Sale of the Estate.

Discusses a meeting Knox and his delegation are attending. Mentions a meeting held at the Green Dragon to deal with officers pay. Says a committee was appointed to draft a memorial to Congress and report it at the Society of the Cincinnati meeting in July. It is the intention of the committee to meet with the officers the latter part of this month and present their findings to Congress in June. Forwards a copy of the memorial that was drafted for Knox to peruse, he is instructed not to say a word of it to anyone. Says if he dislikes or would like an amendment to any part of the report to let him know. Believes the memorial is the only way to satisfy the officers. It is their intention for General [Benjamin] Lincoln to sign the memorial on behalf of the officers.

Tries to understand how Knox's letters are delayed in reaching him. Provides Knox with his opinion on various appointments.