Writes that he is very upset at the sudden death of his brother, Joseph, which happened the previous Friday. Is traveling to Brookline to see his brother's widow and daughter. Touches on financial arrangements with Knox and with Mr. [James] Swan.

Writes that he has received Knox's recent letters, and assures him he will try to help Knox in whatever way possible. Adds that he does not lack the will to help, but does lack the means. Declares that he was unable to avoid paying some of Knox's interest, but will try to avoid paying more interest if he can. Discusses helping Knox with obtaining supplies for a ship. Mentions financial arrangements with several people, including Samuel Waldo. Also reports the death of an acquaintance, Mrs. Geyer.

Discusses financial matters in great detail. Mentions a visit from the Bingham family (referring to William Bingham), noting that they were delighted with their tour to the Eastward.

Writes on several topics. Mentions that [Samuel] Shaw will leave soon for New York and that Jackson has delivered to Shaw all of Henry Knox's brother William's luggage. Mentions that Governor [John] Hancock, his wife and family, and several others will depart the next day for New York, and that while most of them will take other methods of transportation, he intends to proceed all the way by Land, the season of the year & the roads must be much against him. Discusses financial matters, particularly bank notes of his and Knox's which he has not yet disposed of because of their current low price. Explains how he handled the problem. Says that there is no other new business, and sends his love to Mrs. Lucy Knox, the Knox children, and Henry's brother William Knox.

Provides advice to Henry Jackson Knox as to how best to arrange financial matters, such as the family business, to provide for the Knox family after the death of Henry Knox. Mentions the possible effects of the European war on pursuing mercantile interests.

Relates that he paid several bills Knox owed, including one to Mr. [Ebenezer] Dunton. Provides a summary of financial transactions he has performed on Knox's behalf. Also mentions that Dr. [William] Eustis has purchased for Knox a breeding mare.