Thanks Knox for his favor of the 16th [of January] and for his communications respecting Messieurs Pintards proposals. Informs Knox, due to the advanced season it would be impossible for him to deviate from the direct and speediest route to China and therefore he could not avail himself of their proposal. Discusses business affairs with associates. Encloses a letter (not included) from Samuel Newman, whom Shaw wishes to have a military appointment. The letter is dated 1790, but based on the content and letters exchanged regarding the same issues it is likely it was 1791.

Thanks Knox for a previous letter. States that his current business prevents him from writing a long letter and occupies me to much at to render me almost a stranger to what is passing either in the gay or political world.

Asks Knox to deliver a forwarded letter to George Washington in respects to him renewing his present position as Consul to China. Also asks about extending his duties further eastward. Writes that he is feeling much better though still a little tender, from his late illness (see GLC02437.04453 for more details on Shaw's illness).

Congratulates Shaw on his arrival in Providence and hopes that his projects may be blessed with success. Presumes he went directly to Boston when he arrived. Discusses business concerns, including the sale of Shaw's goods, and comments on his correspondence with Shaw.

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 his business with [Samuel] Parkman and Messrs. [Nicholas] Hoffman and [Son], noting it will soon be settled. Informs Knox he will be sailing in the near future, thanks to Parkman. Writes that [l]anguage is insufficient to express how much I love you both - Tell Billy that he occupies a brothers place in my heart.

Writes to discuss business endeavors with Knox. Declares that as he has not had a response from Mr. [possibly Robert] Morris in four weeks, he has changed his plans. Instead of remaining in Boston and trying to sell Mr. Morris's teas, which he is holding at 12 per cent higher than the market price, he has asked his brother-in-law, Mr. Parkman, to manage his business affairs and will come to New York to visit Knox and his wife. Has written to Mr. Morris to this effect, and will take passage to New York in four or five days on a ship called Godfrey from Rhode Island. He also wants to hasten his trip because of the arrival of his friend Mr. [Thomas] Randall in Baltimore (see GLC02437.03176). Also adds a note for Mr. [perhaps Samuel] Ogden, explaining that a merchant in Boston has agreed to buy Mr. Ogden's iron.