Mentions the French Navy has been cruising on the American coast. Discusses the recent discovery by his brother, a man of science, in potato cultures. Informs Knox his brother [William Maunsell] sent a packet that explains the discovery, which he is forwarding to Knox. Requests Knox presents this packet to President George Washington. Comments he would like to hear what the president's opinion was on the matter. See GLC02437.06066 for further information on William Maunsell's letter to John Maunsell explaining his discovery.

Only recently found out Knox was in town. Has tried to make arrangements to see him but they keep missing each other. Went twice to 59 Maiden Lane, apparently where Knox was staying, to invite him to dinner. Relates that he gave William Knox a long letter. Writes, sorry I am that your confounded senators & congress are so narrow minded, as to make no provision for their foreign consuls for I hear that they do not I am materialy [sic] interested in your Brother William's fate.

Mentions the January mail arrived and had interesting political information. Encloses a letter sent to him by Mr. Brett (for a summary of that letter see GLC02437.05830). Asks Knox to keep it for 2 days and then return it. Wants to know how Knox and his family are doing. Says his brother William calls on him sometimes.

Says things have been so uninteresting in the hemisphere that he has remained silent since he left Philadelphia. Wrote to his brother William by the last packet. Told William that, some hopes were entertained, that the consular bill would be taken up this session in Congress, I hope it may, & that consuls may have a stipend granted to them, adequate to their support, & the dignity, as well as liberality of the 13 States. Wants to know about George Hammond. Asks if he will be plenipotentiary or ambassador. Inquires about the arrangements between America and Britain. Mentions that he is sorry that my old Lieut; Sinclair, has been checked by the Wabash Gentry - I hope that his next attempt, will be more successful. Has heard that Major [Thomas] Pinckney is appointed Ambassador to England. Reports I hear much in his favour, of his Amiable disposition, and ability, circumstances that please me much. Is expecting European news any minute and when he receives Brett's letter he will pass on any information. Wants an update on the consular bill and any European news Knox has. Is sending along two books from Mr. Bond that he wants returned after they have amused you.

Has received the enclosed letters (not present) from the consul, and asks that Knox read them and return them to Maunsell so he can answer them. Asks that Knox also include any of his own letters for the consul. Thanks him for helping Maunsell's servant. Joins with his wife in wishing Knox and his family their best regards.

Says he arrived in New York 2 days ago after a passage of 39 days from Falmouth. Reports that he left London on 29 June and that William Knox and their friend Brett saw his post chaise off. Notes the enclosed letter is meant for him (not included) and that he has a large book for George Washington. The book is from the Spanish Ambassador and he will deliver it himself unless Knox can suggest a safe means to convey it. Comments Some matters of an interesting nature, connected with the discourse we held together, previous to my departure for london in June 1790, having occur'd, makes it necessary for me to have an interview with you. Wants to know how long Knox will be in Philadelphia.

Reports that the letter Knox intended for his brother, William, was put in the mail for London at 10 p.m. the previous night. Before Maunsell dined with their friend Gates, the letter was safely put into the Office, under a cover to our good correspondent Brett, whose monthly political letter I transmitted to you... As I shall hear from him by every packet, it will enable me to furnish you, with the nouvelles of the times - what he writes, can be depended on. Plans to visit Philadelphia when Washington returns to that city. States that Knox probably already saw Lord Wycombe, who is an Elegant man.