Knox writes to Elderkin, magazine keeper for Daniel Parker & Co., a firm that furnished supplies for troops. Relates that his contract with Parker has nearly expired and no measure has been taken for its renewal. Orders Elderkin to deliver a large number of rations to the present issuing commissary at West Point.

Knox, commander of West Point, reports that about [ninety] men will be stationed in New York probably the greatest part of the Winter. Asks whether Parker, a contractor who furnished supplies for troops, will provide supplies for these men.

Relays orders from the Commander in Chief George Washington to make a reduction of the troops and respective departments. Orders Ruddock to deliver all the military stores in his possession to Captain William Price and consider himself and any conductors under him no longer in service than it is absolutely necessary for this purpose.

Written and signed for Knox by Samuel Shaw, Knox's aide-de-camp. Informs General Paterson that Knox has sent him three hundred pairs of shoes for his troops. Writes that other companies have been instructed to follow Paterson as soon as they arrive. See also GLC02437.02189, the receipt for the shoes.

Request to supervise the arrangement of the Cannon & Stores from the outposts agreeably to the directions which you have received from this day.. - You will request of the Fort Major the number of men which shall be necessary for your purposes, taking care that a proportion of them be Artillery men. Retained copy prepared for Knox's files, copied out in the hand of aide-de-camp John Lillie, and signed for Knox by him. Also bears Lillie's docket on verso.

Reports that the corps in the detachment at West Point have been dissolved, except for those soldiers whose terms of service have not expired. These 500 men will be commanded by Colonel [Henry] Jackson, presumably at West Point. There is also one corps of artillery commanded by Major Sebastian Bauman. Asks Steuben to instruct Jackson on the mode by which the remaining soldiers will be mustered and inspected. Plans to depart soon for Boston, leaving Jackson in charge.

Informs Bryant that he will receive 7000 rations from army contractors to be issued in such Quantities upon Returns signed by Capt. Joseph Williams. Indicates that General Henry Jackson will protect the stores and that Daniel Parker & Co. (the contractors) should be paid. See GLC02437.02917 for Knox's retained copy.