Informs Knox that Henry [Jackson Knox] arrived on the 27th. Discusses the impact the visit had on Henry Jackson Knox and ways to keep him on track (likely referring to his academics). Notes Knox's visit appears to have made a good impression on Henry Jackson Knox. Requests Knox writes to his son frequently. Also suggests Henry Jackson Knox shows his father's letters to him so he can better assist Knox in keeping his son on course. Recommends a preacher for the Waldo patent lands. Discusses the preacher's character and his experience. Sends his compliments to Mrs. [Lucy] Knox.

Provides a detailed account of Knox's son's (Henry Jackson Knox) progress in his studies. Notes Henry Jackson Knox has shown an improvement in propriety since Knox's departure. His French master has also noted an improvement. States there have only been two incidences involving Knox's son. Also hints at a inappropriate relationship between Henry Jackson Knox and a girl of bad fame.

Lincoln appears to be an official at the academy where Henry Jackson Knox attends. Suspects that his letters of 20 June and 27 July did not reach Knox. Proceeds to give Knox an update on his son. Says the boy improved after being placed under the watchful eye of some one person and receiving a scolding from Knox. Lincoln was upset that the boy would admit his guilt but would never sincerely correct his future actions. Tells Knox that his son had beaten our little girl, insulted a man in the street, broken open a closet & taken out some sugar. Goes into detail about the lessons he tried to teach the boy, including how a young gentleman is to interact properly with servants. There was a controversy over the boy attending the commencement in Cambridge. Says he would not have consented to take charge of Henry Jackson Knox had it not been for his esteem for the Knox family and Knox's connection with General Benjamin Lincoln.

Knox discusses with Lincoln matters concerning their business affairs. He tells Lincoln that Henry Jackson is having a difficult time advancing anything, and he asks Lincoln that he not bring any action against Jackson, as it will have a most pernicious [effect]. Knox says he will try to get Lincoln the money by mid-summer. Knox goes on to talk about other related matters and offers ideas about how to best deal with associates who are requesting money or who are not paying up.

Informs Knox that their son Henry Jackson Knox is doing well and that he was not allowed to go to Boston since Henry Jackson would not be there to supervise. He is advancing well in his studies. Also recommends Mr. James Henry Langier for a clerk's position to Knox. Free stamped on address leaf with no signature.

Unsigned, and marked copy. Body of the letter in the hand of Robert Pemberton, Knox's aide. Knox refers to a previous letter he sent to Lincoln (see GLC02437.03446). Thanks him for his last letter, and believes his recent services to the government (by leading troops to suppress Shays' Rebellion) will prove beneficial. Writes, A Congress of seven States has been lately formed. Our old friend General [Arthur] St. Clair president. Nearly three months elapsed between the time Congress ought to have been and the time it was actually formed. Adds, I have written you an official letter respecting some troops I have ordered to Springfield. Discusses where these troops are currently stationed, and how they will arrive at Springfield. Urges him to keep your attention fixed on the Stores and to afford them as ample protection as your force will admit, and the case may require. Mentions the variety of rumors he has heard regarding the status of Lincoln's regiment, but has heard that Generals [Rufus] Putnam and [Benjamin] Tupper are with him and if so, sends his regards to them.

Thanks him for his recent letter. Comments on Knox's accusation that Jackson did not write him when he was supposed to, but provides an excuse. Writes, What a misfortune, that the new government is not yet formed - the Feds are uneasy, & the Antis are rising tip toe in consequence of the delay - however, we keep up our spirits and hope for the best. Discusses the election of the Vice President, and the desire of the people of Boston to support the Federal Government. Reports that he and Benjamin Hichborn are delayed in departing for their visit to New York because Hichborn must remain on the Supreme Court, which is still in session. Mentions that Captain [Thomas] Vose has not returned from the eastward yet, but has written friends that he likes his situation (as one of Knox's agents in the Waldo patent lands). Discusses his attempts to locate high quality fish. Sends his love to Lucy Knox and their children.