Replies to Knox's letter from 9 November (GLC02437.04410). Notes that Knox is correct in his observation that Agriculture might afford me Satisfaction and profit... Adds that presently, he is living beyond his means. Writes that the governor has not yet arrived, likely referring to Arthur St. Clair, governor of the Northwest Territory. Reports that due to the death of General [Samuel] Parsons, John Symmes is the only judge left in the Northwest Territory. Hopes the vacancy caused by Parsons' death will be filled as soon as possible, and the territory can establish good & wholesome Laws. Writes, Of Indians we hear nothing - the last Intelligence which was in a Speech from the Delawares & Wyandottes to General Harmar, amounted only to Professions of Friendship...

Sargent, Secretary of the Northwest Territory, discusses progress of the settlers and negotiations with Native Americans in the Territory including Joseph Brant. Writes, We can not as yet, tis true, boast of very much Cultivation or Improvement, for our Numbers are not large, but the few present have not been idle- they have [built] themselves comfortable Log Houses... Comments on the delay of an unspecified treaty with Native Americans. Writes ...As the Governour corresponds with you, you will undoubtedly be informed of the particular Disposition of the different Tribes- Should they eventually unite in any one Determination, I am persuaded it will be to take up the Hatchet, but at any Rate their young Men will in the Hopes of Pillage very much harrass [sic] us- for they have caught the Spirit of Liberty & will no more submit to the Government of their acknowledged Chiefs- I have frequently heard this declared by the old & young & that this Spirit of Rebellion was not of Long Standing.

Apparently sends condolences to the Knox family (likely regarding the recent death of one of Knox's children). Writes that he would be happy to receive a line from Knox and answer any questions Knox might have about Sargent's area of the country. Is anxious for the Governor to arrive, because he needs to determine which lands the Governor would like to settle on, so that Sargent can set up his own home and agricultural fields. Discusses the military staff present in Ohio and the prospects of Congress sending more people. Free stamped on address leaf with no signature.

Later copy. Refers to a recent letter from Sargent which discussed battle losses to Indians in the Northwest Territories. Comments on the protection of settlements on the frontier, and mentions that plans will be laid before Congress on that subject right away.

States that he is mortified that Sargent declined the office of Adjutant and Inspector General. He does not know who will be appointed. Discusses Arthur St. Clair, the governor of the Northwest territory. Writes, When I last saw the governor, he seemed undecided whether he should return until the fall - but I hope he will as his stay here will excite disa[illegible] sensations in the minds of some people. Also talks about officers who lost their horses in action at the Battle of Wabash (St. Claire's defeat, 4 November 1791) and have not been compensated yet. The last page is a later copy of the original. On this copied page, Knox discusses some pay and promotion issues, the situation in France, and the New York state governor's election. You will see by the paper that the devil is to pay in France. No subordination - all confusion. It is to be hoped, however, they will soon restore order. In New York they are all mad - part for Clinton - part for Jay - the ferment has run pretty high, but it is to be hoped is subsiding. Ends by stating that the Indian War is causing him much reproach and he would like to see it ended.

Requests that Knox recommend a Mr. Sebastian (possibly Benjamin Sebastian) to fill any judicial vacancies that may arise in the Northwest Territory. Expects Judge [George] Turner to leave his seat.

Later copy. Gives orders to Sargent concerning the protection of the North-West Territory. Mentions directing General Anthony Wayne to provide an escort for the governor of Georgia. Noted as written at the War Department.