Hays, interested in opening a store selling stationery and books in New Port James, seeks to establish a business relationship with Knox. Asks Knox to occasionally supply him with books. Address mistakenly made out to Daniel Knox.

Knox lists sums for which he is accountable to Michael Moses Hays. Knox notes, Mr. Hay is secured for an endorsement by my mills, locks and canals on the St. George River which are worth at least 30000 Dollars. Knox ends with the passage that this memorandum is therefore made, in case of death, that my heirs may not suffer in the cases of the aforementioned notes and payments. In this document, Knox reverses Hays's first two names from Moses Michael to Michael Moses.

Would be happy to help Mr. Hays if he had the power to do so. However, it appears that Mr. Hays's not being a current resident of Rhode Island is a formidable barrier in securing him the appointment. Regardless of this problem, if he would like to submit a letter to the President about the position, Knox will present it to him.

Initialed by Knox. References Hays's letter of 4 October (GLC02437.05184). Encloses certificates of safe travel for the ship Jefferson, to be captained by Josiah Roberts (not included here).

Unsigned. Writes that he received Shaw's letters and enclosures, and was delighted and satisfied to hear of his health and the prospect of advancing his interests. Has no hope that Shaw will receive the letter, but addresses it to him on the bare possibility he will receive it, hoping that if he does not, our dear friend Randall may for whom it is equally intended. Focuses primarily on business matters. Discusses the sale of merchandise Shaw arranged for Knox before he left for China, and describes a transfer of this merchandise from Samuel Ogden because Ogden went out of town. Also mentions the new government and new Constitution of the United States, and declares that when he returns to the country, he will likely find George Washington to be President and John Adams to be Vice President. Provides some information on their family and friends, and also discusses ships traveling to China from Boston. In the hand of William Knox.

Discusses the financial business of a mutual acquaintance.

An account of financial transactions between Henry Knox and Moses Michael Hays.