Discusses a variety of issues related to his presenting a petition to the Massachusetts State Legislature. Has attempted to meet with Governor [John] Hancock, who has promised to notify them when a meeting would be convenient. Describes the positions and concerns of many legislators regarding half-pay of officers, on which the petition seems to focus. Docketed at the top of page one by Knox.

Responds to Lamb's letter (see GLC02437.01354) that the notes which were to be paid to the officers were intended, by Robert Morris, to counterbalance the clothing provided for the soldiers. Morris's priorities are first to provide the soldiers and officers with rations, second to provide clothes (which these notes were intended to do for the officers), and third to provide pay, which they are working on obtaining. Argues that an officer who paid for clothing out of his own purse may use the payment as he likes, but that the intention was to pay for clothing for the officers. Mentions the Marquis de Lafayette.

Written from Burlington, likely in New Jersey. Writes that he was informed by the Pay-Master that the Financier intended the officers should receive two months Pay, in certain Notes, payable on the 1st of August next. He and the other officers agreed that our receiving Pay of any kind in which the Soldiers do not share, will have a tendency, to sour their minds, still more, - and, may involve consequences not only fatal to those who command them, but the Public. Is ready to travel to New York state and hopes to stop in Poughkeepsie and convince the legislature there to recruit new soldiers and advance some money to those already in their employ. See GLC02437.01355 for Knox's response.

Thanks Knox for his letter announcing the arrangement of the new general officers of the army. Does not feel he can provide an official opinion until he has more information about the ranks and pay scales associated with the positions, so he writes to ask Knox several questions on the subject. Among his comments about candidates, he states that he should have priority of rank over General [Marinus] Willett.

Recommends a captain for a position in the national army. Notes the gentleman has distinguished himself as an officer and is currently in the Boston, Massachusetts regiment of militia.