Has not heard from his brother in almost six weeks. News of the operation against Yorktown from General George Washington included the destruction of three of Lord Cornwallis redoubts and a formal demand for surrender, along with Cornwallis' rejection of it. Speculates that defeating Cornwallis will not be easy for the Allied Army, but Fall he must. Rumors of unsuccessful British activity against General Nathanael Greene near Charleston. Offers high praise for Greene as a potential successor for Washington. Mentions the deaths of 300 soldiers and officers among Colonel William Washington's cavalry. Also mentions the success of General John Stark at Skenesboro. Discusses his plans to travel to Europe on business on a French frigate. Joshua Loring will take over his bookstore. Mentions selling some books and making other preparations for departure.

Discusses news of the siege of Yorktown, mentioning the activities of the Marquis de La Fayette and naval engagements between French Admiral Compte de Grasse and British Admiral Thomas Graves. Reports that Congress has received indications of the capture of Lord Cornwallis, but faulty intelligence from the past has made them skeptical. Discusses his upcoming business trip to Europe and seeks his brother's approval. Explains his sale of stock to finance the trip and plans to travel by French frigate. Explains his plans in case ships with cargo he owns arrive in Boston after his departure. Comments on the dearth of letters from Lucy to him and others in Boston. Mentions news of family and friends. Reports that local merchants are going to give a dinner for the Marquis de Gergerous.

Has not recently received any letters from William, his brother. Reports that Continental troops in the vicinity reconnoitered at Kings Bridge to estimate where the British are most vulnerable: The result of our discoveries was a full conviction that the place was reducible with a proper number of men, a number however far exceeding those now here. Whether we shall be able to obtain a sufficient force depends upon our Country, if they will furnish the men... Describes a skirmish between the Marquis de Lafayette and Lord Cornwallis 6 July in Virginia near Green Spring plantation, in which Lafayette underestimated the British force, thus the Americans were oblig'd to retire... Knox is however assured that This affair will have no bad consequences. Refers to General Nathanael Greene's actions in South Carolina, including at Ninety Six. Written at Philipsburgh, New York (present-day Sleepy Hollow).

Thanks William for money he recently sent. Reports that Lucy Knox and their children have gone up the Hudson River on a visit. Discusses his hopes for an end to the Revolutionary War, writing I sincerely pray God that the War may be ended this campaign that public and private felicity may be again restored. Discusses British movement in the South, noting, Our affairs to the Southward have an agreeable aspect and convince us although the Enemy may establish posts, they cannot conquer the Country. Criticizes what he calls vile water-gruel governments which have taken place in most of the States... Praises Massachusetts, stating The same tone, sentiment, & exertion, pervading all the States would indisputably render this the last Campaign. Reports that the British recently sent ships up the Hudson River to sabotage Continental communication but were unsuccessful. Promises to write as often as possible, though the post follows a circuitous route. Written at Philipsburgh, New York (present-day Sleepy Hollow).

Discusses business, Cornwallis' activities and General Nathanael Greene's movements. Mentions the Marquis de Lafayette.

Received Lucy's letter via Martha Washington and is glad to hear his daughter is in good spirits. Hopes to see her in ten days. He has to prepare to transport ordnance in the aftermath of the siege of Yorktown. Mentions that the French army will winter at Yorktown. All the Continental troops south of Pennsylvania, including Knox's, will join General Nathanael Greene. Encloses his brother William Knox's last letter (see GLC02437.01270). Reports that the British ships intended to relieve Lord Cornwallis have just arrived at the Capes too late to help. Comte de Grasse plans to attack them, and Knox opines that It would end the campaign gloriously to take five or six Ships from the imposing english.