Knox writes to Hull, commandant of West Point. Reports he has not received word from Congress regarding Hull's prior question about the engineers who remain in service at West Point. Discusses other military matters, including Hull's disagreement with Sebastian Bauman, an artillery officer. Expresses hope that both Knox's opinion and that of [Francisco] de Miranda will convince Bauman of the impropriety of his conduct. Written in Dorchester, a neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts.

Bauman, in charge of the artillery at West Point, complains of a most cingular circumstance that is agitated against the honor of my command and disparagement of the corps of Artillery. Gives numerous reasons for his disagreement with Lieutenant Colonel William Hull (commandant of West Point). Hull's orders placed artillery on regular garrison duty under direction of the adjutant. Bauman refused to comply and was suspended at his own request. Bauman complains that he can not carry out his artillery duties when ordered on garrison duty, declaring ...I cannot in justice to the trust reposed to me obey the order as it now stands, let the consequences to me be what they will.

Mentions his new appointment in the military. Discusses a dispute involving ranks of soldiers in the state of Massachusetts. Refers to a Congressional resolution appointing him the second officer in the state. Had been under the impression that the only person in the state he had to answer to was [Henry] Jackson, but would like Knox to clarify the chain of command so that he can regulate [his] conduct accordingly. Mentions a dispute with [William] North.

Writes to Bauman to reassure him of his regard for him. States that [m]y idea is that in garrison the artillery officers in common occasions should do their full proportion of the Duty of the place, provided always that the immediate duties of the artillery and stores do not at the same line require their particular attention. Continues to try and settle the dispute between officers and their duties. Watermarked.

Discusses their recent correspondence, and mentions that he has recently declined a military appointment. Recounts conversations he and Knox have had about the possibility of his appointment, as well as about the appointment of General [John] Brooks and Brooks' decision not to accept. Also discusses family reasons for declining, particularly the illness of his father-in-law.

Writes about the impending war and declares that Knox should give up any consideration for the common or public good of our country. Discusses the necessity of finding an American engineer to help prevent the enemy from learning the strengths of their ports. Recommends searching for geniuses in America and to have the government give them as much assistance it can afford. Also, suggests New York having four companies of artillery during war and two during peace. Free stamped on address leaf with no signature.