Claims that a variety of circumstances has kept him from transmitting the proposals they discussed in New York. Has heard Smith is on a journey to the eastward at present and wants to know if he will be in Philadelphia in the near future. Also wants to know if there are any circumstances which will prevent him from complying with the proposals they discussed. If there are, Knox reports that arrangements can be made. Notes that they can meet at Princeton if that is convenient.

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

Says it might be more agreeable to Smith to buy Knox's St. Lawrence lands instead of those further east. Reports The St. Lawrence lands are excellent in quality and are opposite to James Graves Simcoe's new government in Canada, where land is selling very high. Tells him Governor George Clinton can inform him on the lands. Declares that his proportion of the St. Lawrence lands is about 42,000 acres. Explains that Gouverneur Morris was empowered by Alexander Macomb to sell the whole, and it was said by the parties that he had made an agreement for him at a crown p[er] acre - but I have not heard lately from any of the parties. Describes the conditions of a possible sale. Mentions an advance of [dollar sign] 20,000. Speaks of many caveats depending on the situation with Morris.

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.).

From a conversation he had with William Duer, he is concerned that Smith might have misunderstood the object of his letter and enclosure of 22 October. Tells Smith he may remember a conversation they had in your house, relative to a favorable accommodation for the preservation of my bank stock. Says that a certain quantity of his private lands in the Waldo patent will be sold to you conditionally upon the approbation of your agent. Mentions financial arrangements to pay for it. Says [dollar sign] 1,600-[dollar sign] 2,000 must be advanced.