Replies to Sargent's request to send more troops to the Western Territory, specifically Marietta, Ohio (refer to GLC02437.04369). Knox does not personally object to the request, but writes that the arrangement directed is with the entire concurrence of the President of the United States and embraces a variety of views- It seems to be a pretty prevalent opinion among the members of the Eastern States that the expences for the Western territories should be rather lessened than encreased. Noted as an extract.

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...

Writes that General [James] Wilkinson has asked for his help with the militiamen, specifically acquiring more troops. Discusses Wilkinson's attempts to establish lines of communication. Comments on the dispute between Wilkinson and Zeigler (see GLC02437.05346 for further information). Also touches on the altercation between Ford and Hodgdon (see GLC02437.05351), as well as the field officers there in the militia.

Thanks him for his letters. Never doubted Knox's good wishes toward him, or his desire to promote Sargent's military achievements. Is acutely aware of Knox's responsibilities and does not want to put him in an embarrassing position because of his desire to attain an appointment. Though he wanted the Captaincy of Artillery, he even moreso wanted Knox's high esteem, both during military service and in civilian life. Writes, Consider [...] how severely I must have been wounded by [William] North & [Elnathan] Haskell- who were both my Junior Officers during [an] the war & who have Majorities in the Legion. In response to Knox's offer of the position of Inspector of Troops, he thinks himself inadequate for the position. Encloses paper (not present) describing General [Benjamin] Lincoln's expedition. Sargent would have liked to join the expedition, and Lincoln and Governor James Bowdoin wanted him to go, but he did not believe there was an appropriate position available to him. Writes, General Lincoln offerd indeed to make me his Adjutant Genl but I was sure I could not discharge the duty, to my own Satisfaction. Finally, discusses the status of the Massachusetts insurgents. See GLC02437.03413 for a related document.

Is anxious for Sargent to enter the military establishment in a manner agreable [sic] to your feelings, and if it was entirely up to him, Knox might create a special position just for him. Relates that Congress has directed a legionary corps to be raised, and he cannot alter arrangements which have already been made. Has always wished that the corps for artillery and engineers be the same, but it is up to Congress. Asks whether he might consider the office of Inspector of the Troops, which Major [William] North has resigned. Discusses what ranks and benefits Congress might associate with that office. Explains other offices that might be more suitable to Sargent than the office he has rejected, Captain of Artillery in the Massachusetts line. See GLC02437.03432 for Sargent's reply.

Largely a copy of GLC02437.05466, with additional content where the other letter leaves off. However, the letter is still incomplete.

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.