Wanted to be in Philadelphia by 1 March, but thinks it will more likely be 3 or 4 March now. Writes, It is the general opinion here that a war will take place between England and France, several officers of the British Navy are here at present, they are hurrying home by the first vessels. Notes Mr. Macomb has been released from jail upon the principles I lately mentioned to you. States Macomb's real estate is up for sale. Says no man lives more at his ease than Horatio Gates. Saw him at 3 dinner parties last week. Mentions that he is a warm democrat; the Baron says he is a good military man, but a bad politician. And that he has good terms at the Crugar house and farm, 2,000 for the rest of his life. Gates sells 400 of produce each year after supplying the needs of his family. Reports that Mr. Van Berckel, the Dutch ambassador to the U.S. and the husband of Madame de Leval, has purchased two lots of Courtland Street and will build a home. It appears he will not return to Europe. Postscript says, Gen. Gates says he hopes Colo. Hamilton will not think of going out, in consequence of the noisy conduct of some people, whose sole object is to get in themselves, this sentiment appears to prevail here both with respect to him and yourself.

Reports that there are so many people in the market for a house that a place will not remain unrented for more than a day. Believes if one opens up it will be gone by the time Henry would forward the necessary instructions. Forwards a letter from Mr. Brett from Britain. Brett mentioned that great apprehensions were entertained of disturbances in England. Reports that a large fleet has been ordered to be in readiness. Says the garrison at Frankfurt on Main has been taken by the combined forces of Prussia and Germany. The King of Prussia was present at the battle, which proves he has not made a separate peace as was reported. Says the English stocks have fallen in London, while the American ones have risen. Reports that Colonel William Smith and his family has arrived by the latest packet. Gives Henry other financial news. Asks for information on William Bingham's proceedings.

As William Knox writes by this post, he has little to report other than his sincerest regards. Says Mr. Brett's letter is included in William's letter. Asks to have Brett's letter returned after Henry reads it. Free stamped on address leaf with no signature.

Acknowledges receiving several letters from Knox and apologizes for not responding sooner. Laments that Knox wrote that nothing final[l]y had taken place in Congress respecting your return here. This is in reference to a diplomatic post William tried to get through his brother. Reports that War has actualy taken place between France & England. Says there is a great need for an American resident in Dublin as a general Embargo was laid yesterday, which has detained American vessels. Says France has lost Character with us by the tryal & Death of their late King (King Louis XVI). Speaks of politics in Ireland as they relate to the Catholics & Reform. Believes the Catholics will get what they want this session and reform will begin to take place. Reports that the Country is much agitated upon the Subject, & something it is to be hoped will take place to ease the Public mind. Mentions various ships he has a financial interest in. Makes reference to their common friends and says Mrs. Wilson died after 2 1/2 years of confinement. Says the duty on tobacco is to drop from 12 shillings to 6 shillings after 25 March by which it may become again an Article worth Attention. Notes that France has a good market for wheat if the Americans can get a guaranteed payment. Warns they will need to be careful to preserve neutrality.