Dated November 1776; date of 17 November inferred from content. Reports that Fort Washington has been captured by the British, and that the Americans have lost between 2,000 to 3,000 soldiers. The American generals, including Washington, Palmer, Mercer and Greene, had been discussing abandoning the Fort when the British troops arrived and attacked. Describes the British attack on the fort, and the American retreat. Thinks the British may have taken a number of casualties, but bemoans the loss of the fort as a terrible event its consequences are justly to be dreaded, and asks Knox for support as a friend.

Informs her of the loss of Fort Washington and 1,500 men. This is the most severe stroke we have received during the war as to the number of men. Writes that he is very upset over the terrible defeat, but has not lost hope.

Writes from Camp High Hills that he hopes Knox is with General George Washington in Virginia, where the prospect is so bright and the glory so great. Wished the Continental Army had attacked New York, which was planned before the decision to concentrate forces at Yorktown. Anticipates that Washington will force British General Cornwallis to surrender, (pile his arms). Talks in general about the difficulties of his Southern campaign. Inquires about family and friends.

Explains that he must delay reconnaissance of King's Bridge (Kingsbridge) because he has to go to New Uttrick [Utrecht] on Long Island to conduct business with a committee there. Relays a report of two British ships spotted off the offing the previous night. Kingsbridge connected the northern tip of Manhattan to the mainland. The Continental Army evacuated Manhattan through there in October, 1776.

Was worried to hear from Henry Jackson that William had gone aboard a ship going to confront the British ship the Mifford. Notes that after pursuing the Continental Army to White Plains, the British have turned back toward New York and Knox speculates that they intend to besiege Fort Washington and then pass to New Jersey and possibly Philadelphia. Believes Fort Washington could withstand a two or three month siege. Notes that the Hessians and the British plunder all before them. Instructs William to pick Lucy Knox up from New Haven, Connecticut, if she wants to winter in Boston. A note on the verso states It is absurd to suppose a man of Mr. Howe's character gone into winter Qtrs already.

Discusses his family, stating My feelings are more flattered by domestic duties than public bustle. Comments on credit being given to George Washington (and himself) for service during the Revolutionary War, noting there are others no less deserving. Expresses the depth of his friendship with Knox. Mentions discontent recently arising regarding the Society of the Cincinnati (some felt it would promote hereditary nobility). Discusses his nomination to work in the Department of War, asking for Knox's opinions.

Regrets that he must send her to Boston, but hopes to see her and Peter soon, if his duties allow. Notes British movements on Long Island. Comments on the tactical ineptitude displayed by both sides: The manoeuvres of the enemy are so complicated that at times I think they have as little knowledge in the art of war as their opponents. Discusses the strength of both armies, and prepares for a siege of Fort Washington. Has heard that the King of Portugal has declared war on the colonies.