Says his brother Captain Smith is stationed on the Southern frontier. Since the front is quiet, he would like Knox to grant him permission to visit his family, if it is not inconsistent with the good of the service. Will be much obliged if Knox will permit him to visit New York this season.

Writes that he believes, from Smith's recent letter, that he would like information on the likelihood of the result. Suggests that certain principles must dictate a different arrangement from the one you contemplated. Trusts that Smith will act with the utmost propriety. (May be alluding to Smith's upcoming departure from America; see GLC02437.05251.).

Says Citizen Genet is disposed to leave me in the lurch, relative to the accoutrements provided for his nation, indeed if he was to take them, I know not how he is to pay for them he has offered me Bills on France, but they will not answer. Asks Knox for assistance and to take the items at a fair value for public service. They are cartridge boxes with belts and sword belts with bayonet scabbards. Says they are fit for service and ready for transport.

Mentions the subject of Smith's last letter and praises its virtues. Promises always to advance Smith's interests in any degree.

Smith tells Knox that Smith has consented once more to, enter into the tented field. Smith reminds Knox of a book he gave Knox of portraits of European soldiers. Smith asks that Knox give it to the President. (Smith is President John Adams's son-in-law.).

Has received Knox's recent letter, and is happy to assure him that the deranged state of affairs in this city does not affect him or interfere with my proposed excursion. Adds that his views, of course, are not military. Free stamped on address leaf with no signature.

Marked private. Thanks him for his recent letter, and writes that he is much obliged by the intelligence it contained. Declares that he is satisfied with the arrangement, and believes he has discharged faithfully the duty I owed my Country, my friends and myself. Adds that Knox's communications to him will always be held in confidence. (See GLC02437.05251 and GLC02437.05253 for related information.).