Mentions Lucy Knox's trip up the Hudson River and hearing that General Knox passed New Windsor, New York with Governor George Clinton on his way to meet Lucy. Comments on a naval battle off the coast of Boston between the French frigate Magicianne and the more heavily armed British ship Assurance. Inquires if a Mr. Diricks was ever a Colonel in the Continental Army. Discusses the arrival of a French frigate called the Diligent, along with news that the Spanish and French have attempted the Reduction of Gibralter and that they have brought a new type of ship that floats higher in the water. Comments that the officer from the frigate, who has brought part of the loan negotiated by John Laurens, did not seem to know that there is such a place as Holland or...the Vienna Congress. Reports that a mutual friend named Mrs. Tarois is ill and S. Winslow, Henry's cousin, has married.

Tells his brother that an object is now developed and known to be Lord Cornwallis, and alludes to the forthcoming siege of Yorktown: our measures are such that if the respective parts harmonize, we hope to do something handsome... The military maneuver will disrupt General Knox's family life because he has to leave for Virginia. Discusses a personal financial issue.

Writes concerning William's safe arrival in Boston. Sends along the good wishes of their sister and Lucy. Discusses the movement of Cornwallis' army and other military affairs.

Reports that Continental troops are moving toward the British on the North (Hudson) River. Discusses William's upcoming voyage, a mercantile venture to Holland. Declares, From the high Spirits of our troops, their discipline, and equipments, I think if we come into contact with the Enemy we shall at least do justice to ourselves and Country whatever may be the Event. Mentions Lucy Knox and their daughters (Lucy and Julia). Notes that the Winslow sisters have not yet left for Boston.

Requests that William obtain items for Lucy Knox, his wife. Asks that he send the articles so Lucy may receive them by mid-January. Requests green tea and raisons. Discusses the procurement of goods, and gives William advice on business matters. Agrees to help Sally and Betsey Winslow reach Boston, noting the distressing circumstance will be how they will be able to subsist when there... their mother in Law is going to England & they will be left friendless and without protection- Reports that the British have not completely evacuated New York, but two fleets recently embarked. Predicts one fleet sailed for Europe, and the other for the West Indies. The last fleet is preparing to sail, and consists of nearly all the vessels in New York. Expects the Continental Army to have winter quarters in New Jersey. Written at Fredericksburg (present-day Patterson, New York).

Reports the arrival of part of a [bldg.] sent by Alexander. Discusses recent orders and troop movements in New York. Mentions ordering troops to Albany to take down a laboratory and to check on wagons in the vicinity. Mentions the recent death of his infant son, writing The misery inflicted upon us poor mortals appears frequently to be too great to be borne, and yet we wade on, if not contented, yet unwilling to have a period put to our troubles and the shadows we call pleasures. Notes that Mrs. Knox sends her regards to William Duer and Lady Kitty Duer (Catharine Alexander, Stirling's daughter and wife of William Duer).