Shaw, Knox's former aide-de-camp, writes a friendly letter to discuss a variety of matters. First, he forwards Mr. Gardiner's oration on the anniversary of independence. If you can travel through so much various matter as it is composed of, it will be a strong proof of your perseverance. References a letter he sent Knox on 1 August, saying that it was written in the bitterness of my soul, and what is worse, a bitterness which still continues; he is having problems settling his father's estate, and is resigned that the outcome will not benefit himself or any of his siblings. Relates some information about a navigation act regarding the British, and hopes Congress will exercise its powers. Finally, discusses a dispute between the towns of Boston and Roxbury, Massachusetts, that has been occurring over the last two weeks, regarding enforcement of an act prohibiting people from riding out on Sundays. Recounts the way the lawyer, Mr. Benjamin Hickbourn [most sources say Hichborn] resolved the dispute with Judge Boardman of Roxbury.

Shaw, Henry Knox's aide-de-camp, apologizes for the delay in sending a box owned by William. Reports that the army plans to leave Valley Forge, and Henry Knox is unwilling to leave any thing of his in this d-n'd State. Refers to military and political matters, noting that England (John Bull) would leave America if it could do so decently. Comments that La Francois intends to speculate pretty deeply in American politics. Remarks that British papers emphasize the advantage America could gain by constitutionally uniting with England, yet the British also highlight the difference between American and British speech, dress, and customs. Mentions bills released by Lord North and authenticated by General William Howe. Discusses preparations for following the British as they leave Philadelphia, bound for New York. Discusses a disagreement between Henry Knox and Thomas-Antoine Mauduit, Chevalier Du Plessis. Some text loss on page three.

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.

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.

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.

Discusses his experience with Congress, in particular, making forced compromises in order to bring about a successful end to Knox's business. I need not tell you how happy I am that this matter is at last brought to a close. Instead of one, it seems a twelvemonth since I left you, - the chagrin and mortification inseparable from an attendance on Congress is beyond any thing.