Comments that he has not written to Knox in awhile. Has received a letter in the mail from [Samuel] Breck which he encloses (not present), and declares that he is not writing to a minister, but to my friend General Knox. Hopes Knox will treat his letter as private. Discusses elections for governor and mentions former governor [George] Clinton. Comments on New York political intrigue and the ambition of men. Sends his family's regards to Mrs. Knox and their family. Relates that he is very pleased with the President's choice for the new ambassador to England (his name is not mentioned), and explains why he feels that office is important.

Writes to inform Knox he received a packet from Colonel [Sebastian] Bauman containing Knox's letter to the Consul at Dublin, among other correspondence. Expects mail to arrive from London hourly, and expects news in the papers about key issues of the day, such as the recent capitulation by Tippo to Lord Cornwallis (referring to Tipu Sultan, a leader Cornwallis defeated in India while he was Governor-General there). Also refers to news about Fayette [Lafayette] and the austrians (he had recently been placed in charge of French forces attacking Austria). Sends his love to Mrs. Knox and the amiable & beautiful Mrs. Flucker (perhaps Sarah Lyons Flucker, Lucy Knox's sister-in-law). Adds a short note on the verso regarding New York's governor's election: We are committeeing [sic] it away, about Jay - Clinton & Canvassars - it is believed, that Jay will govern New York State.

Has received the enclosed letters (not present) from the consul, and asks that Knox read them and return them to Maunsell so he can answer them. Asks that Knox also include any of his own letters for the consul. Thanks him for helping Maunsell's servant. Joins with his wife in wishing Knox and his family their best regards.

Only recently found out Knox was in town. Has tried to make arrangements to see him but they keep missing each other. Went twice to 59 Maiden Lane, apparently where Knox was staying, to invite him to dinner. Relates that he gave William Knox a long letter. Writes, sorry I am that your confounded senators & congress are so narrow minded, as to make no provision for their foreign consuls for I hear that they do not I am materialy [sic] interested in your Brother William's fate.

Says he arrived in New York 2 days ago after a passage of 39 days from Falmouth. Reports that he left London on 29 June and that William Knox and their friend Brett saw his post chaise off. Notes the enclosed letter is meant for him (not included) and that he has a large book for George Washington. The book is from the Spanish Ambassador and he will deliver it himself unless Knox can suggest a safe means to convey it. Comments Some matters of an interesting nature, connected with the discourse we held together, previous to my departure for london in June 1790, having occur'd, makes it necessary for me to have an interview with you. Wants to know how long Knox will be in Philadelphia.

Mentions the January mail arrived and had interesting political information. Encloses a letter sent to him by Mr. Brett (for a summary of that letter see GLC02437.05830). Asks Knox to keep it for 2 days and then return it. Wants to know how Knox and his family are doing. Says his brother William calls on him sometimes.

As William Knox writes by this post, he has little to report other than his sincerest regards. Says Mr. Brett's letter is included in William's letter. Asks to have Brett's letter returned after Henry reads it. Free stamped on address leaf with no signature.