Writes, The stoppage of payment by Mr. [William] Duer has created considerable anxiety, although it has as yet produced no other failures - he himself assured me that he would finally comply with all his contracts but required time. Adds that he, himself, will not suffer much from Duer's financial problems, and explains how much he loaned Duer and the arrangements they made together. Suggests that Knox help by repaying Duer any amount he can. Concludes, If he does not come forward soon & explain his affairs this city will be in great commotion. Adds that he expects the arrival of [Samuel] Shaw any day. Free stamped on address leaf with no signature.

Received Knox's recent letter and went to visit Colonel [Benjamin] Walker immediately. Walker had also received a letter from Knox, and concluded to pay his acceptances and draw on you at thirty days. Discusses how Mr. [William] Duer's financial distress is causing anxiety in New York City. His friends will come forward soon with ideas to help him; the individuals with the most to lose are Mr. [Alexander] Macomb and Mr. Walter Livingston, as they have loaned him the most. Writes that so far the situation has tended not only to greatly lower stocks (which perhaps is no real evil) but it has destroyed in a great measure private credit & confidence in all classes. Further discusses financial arrangements with Walker. Free stamped on address leaf with no signature.

Received Knox's letter from 25 October (GLC02437.05668), and informs Knox that according to his instructions, he delivered a letter to William Duer. States, I believe no deed of M Duer's can be valid while in confinement, or while any judgement [sic] for debt that may be given by the court against him shall remain unpaid ... Discusses bonds related to Duer and William Green. Expresses his happiness on hearing that Knox and his family have safely arrived in Philadelphia.

Instructs Randall not to execute any of the bonds Knox previously mentioned without further instructions from Knox, and to keep this request secret. Asks Randall to deliver an enclosure (not included) to William Duer with his own hands.

Discusses financial arrangements between himself, Knox, and Colonel [William] Duer, specifically regarding sums of money in notes drawn on the Bank. Free stamped on address leaf with no signature.

States that [Samuel] Shaw and [Thomas] Randall are considered transient merchants, thus their credit is not considered good for long engagements. Discusses a financial matter with Knox, and notes that he hopes to see Knox before he leaves.

Discusses financial arrangements between himself, Smith, and Mr. [William] Duer.