States that he is mortified that Sargent declined the office of Adjutant and Inspector General. He does not know who will be appointed. Discusses Arthur St. Clair, the governor of the Northwest territory. Writes, When I last saw the governor, he seemed undecided whether he should return until the fall - but I hope he will as his stay here will excite disa[illegible] sensations in the minds of some people. Also talks about officers who lost their horses in action at the Battle of Wabash (St. Claire's defeat, 4 November 1791) and have not been compensated yet. The last page is a later copy of the original. On this copied page, Knox discusses some pay and promotion issues, the situation in France, and the New York state governor's election. You will see by the paper that the devil is to pay in France. No subordination - all confusion. It is to be hoped, however, they will soon restore order. In New York they are all mad - part for Clinton - part for Jay - the ferment has run pretty high, but it is to be hoped is subsiding. Ends by stating that the Indian War is causing him much reproach and he would like to see it ended.

Later copy. Gives orders to Sargent concerning the protection of the North-West Territory. Mentions directing General Anthony Wayne to provide an escort for the governor of Georgia. Noted as written at the War Department.

Written from Fort Washington, in present-day Cincinnati, Ohio. Comments on and defends his ability to perform his duties under General [Arthur] St. Clair. Also touches on his abilities to use military forces to protect areas in the Northwest Territories. Declares that he has done everything in his power, and refers Knox to General [James] Wilkinson for further assistance.

Later copy. Briefly mentions a number of topics, including the French Revolution and the government situation with the Eastern Territory.

Later copy. Refers to a recent letter from Sargent which discussed battle losses to Indians in the Northwest Territories. Comments on the protection of settlements on the frontier, and mentions that plans will be laid before Congress on that subject right away.

Requests that Knox recommend a Mr. Sebastian (possibly Benjamin Sebastian) to fill any judicial vacancies that may arise in the Northwest Territory. Expects Judge [George] Turner to leave his seat.

Written from Fort Washington, present-day Cincinnati, Ohio. Mentions that he successfully completed some experiments Knox suggested he perform (on artillery). Discusses the upcoming appointment of a new Adjutant General, and the qualifications necessary for the candidate. Comments on the importance of assigning high military rank to soldiers in the Northwest Territories. Provides a variety of information on the military endeavors in the Ohio area. Refers to General [James] Wilkinson.