Hays writes on behalf of John Coffin Jones. Responds to the letter Knox sent to Jones related to obtaining sea letters for Captain Josiah Roberts. States that since the ship is ready to sail soon, the owners would like the letters forwarded with all speed. Henry Jackson said he was going to contact Knox for help getting a letter from the Spanish ambassador, and Hays notes that the owners will be grateful for Knox's assistance.

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).

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.

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.

Thanks him for his recent letter as well as the letters he enclosed. Relates that one of them was from Jackson's sister, and it related news of the death of his 17-year-old niece. Discusses the recent illness of Knox's daughter Julia, but believes she is out of danger. Writes about their friend Mr. [James] Swan, who is in Europe, writing a book. Mentions the lavish welcome the governor gave the French squadron currently at anchor in Boston Harbor. Is concerned that he has bothered Knox too much on the subject of obtaining an appointment, and apologizes if he has. Mentions a letter he wrote on behalf of Mr. [Moses Michael] Hays (see GLC02437.04356), recommending him for a job.

Notes he has received Col. [Robert] Troup's and Mr. Lewis's letters. Asks that he contacts and obtains an answer from [William] Duer to Knox's letters. Date previously inferred, written in red. State not listed; however, based on another letter (GLC02437.05639) written by Knox on the same day, he was writing from Philadelphia.