In a secretarial hand and unsigned, but author is likely Henry Knox. Letter is probably a reply to GLC02437.04255, from Bryant to Knox. Writes that he would be happy to advance Bryant's brother-in-law Mr. Mason the sum Bryant requested, but he thinks it will not be necessary, as such provision has been recently made for him as will relieve his present necessities.

Writes he has enclosed an order (not included) on Colonel [Jeremiah] Wadsworth's for six months pay owed to Captain Bryant for his service in 1787. Hopes Bryant will receive his pay for 1788 in a few months. He will write more about his difficulties settling Bryant's account when he goes abroad. Indicates he was confined to his house for the past month with rheumatism. Written from the War Office.

Writes to ask if Knox might help his brother, Lieutenant David Mason. Mason is in New York in a desperate situation, and Bryant has no money at present to help him. Asks if Knox might lend Mason fifteen dollars to book passage to Boston or Springfield on Bryant's account, and Bryant will pay him back out of the first income he receives.

Indicates that he is sending monies for the incidental expenses of the ordnance department and Captain Bryant's pay. Asks Bryant to send him a voucher for disbursement estimates and advises him to expedite the mounting of the Artillery, and transmit me monthly, an account of your proceedings. Also indicates that he will visit the armory in Springfield, Massachusetts soon and hopes to see everything in the utmost state of progression. Written from the War Department.

Notes the receipt of a letter from Captain Bryant regarding his pay and indicates that he will consult with them and attempt to obtain a warrant for its payment. Written from the War Office.

Discusses settling accounts related to Captain Bryant's pay for 1786. Mentions two incidences where he could not obtain a credit from the treasurer. Written from the War Office.

Discusses obtaining warrants from the treasury on Connecticut for various objects and Captain Bryant's pay. Says he put the warrants in Colonel [Jeremiah] Wadsworth's hands. Wadsworth has been instructed to inform Knox once he receives payment; Knox will then issue an order for Bryant's and Mr. Henly's pay for the last year. Comments on the settling of accounts in the ordnance department related to Bryant's pay. Closes by claiming he has made every effort to pay the people in his department but the absolute poverty of the treasury of the United States have opposed insuperable obstacles to my wishes. Written from the War Office. Free frank signed by Knox on address leaf.