This is the letterpress original that was used to make the copy of GLC02437.05892. Refer to that record for a full catalog entry. Fragile with areas of text loss.

Later copy. References Sargent's letter of 28 September. Believes Congress will meet in Philadelphia as the yellow fever appears to have dissipated. Believes a symbolic gesture that things are back to normal is necessary or all the American commerce will be injured in foreign countries. Encloses a letter from Fort Washington in Ohio (not included). Says the army marched from the Ohio River on 7 October with 3,000 volunteers and is expecting more. Written from Falls of Schuylkill, Pennsylvania, present day Philadelphia.

Later copy. Briefly mentions a number of topics, including the French Revolution and the government situation with the Eastern Territory.

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.

Writes via their mutual friend, General [Rufus] Putnam, but unfortunately has no news to report from the Western territories. Discusses his pleasure at the commencement of the new government, especially at the fact that our Cincinnatus has been induced to once more quit his Plough (referring to General George Washington's decision to accept the Presidency). Had wished for his Excellency's success and happiness, and asks Knox to send his best wishes to the President. Also sends his best wishes to Mrs. Knox, Knox's brother William, and asks him to remember me to any of our friends who are kind enough to think of me.

Later copy. Writes to enclose Sargent's commission as Adjutant General (not present). Also explains that Congress's act erroneously listed him as a Lieutenant Colonel, but that the error will be corrected to show his rank as Colonel.

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.