Congratulates William Knox on returning from Europe safely and allaying the fears of Henry and Lucy Knox. Relates the latest military affairs, such as the surrender of Charleston to the British. Mentions that Henry expects William to spend some time with their family at the army's winter quarters.

Writes concerning William's safe arrival in Boston. Sends along the good wishes of their sister and Lucy. Discusses the movement of Cornwallis' army and other military affairs.

Shaw, Henry Knox's aide-de-camp, apologizes for the delay in sending a box owned by William. Reports that the army plans to leave Valley Forge, and Henry Knox is unwilling to leave any thing of his in this d-n'd State. Refers to military and political matters, noting that England (John Bull) would leave America if it could do so decently. Comments that La Francois intends to speculate pretty deeply in American politics. Remarks that British papers emphasize the advantage America could gain by constitutionally uniting with England, yet the British also highlight the difference between American and British speech, dress, and customs. Mentions bills released by Lord North and authenticated by General William Howe. Discusses preparations for following the British as they leave Philadelphia, bound for New York. Discusses a disagreement between Henry Knox and Thomas-Antoine Mauduit, Chevalier Du Plessis. Some text loss on page three.

Gives Knox some last minute instructions concerning his affairs before he sails, and expresses his love towards Knox and his family, including Knox's brother, William, whom Shaw calls Billy. Page one is from 15 March; page two is from 21 March.

Asks William to visit the wife of Captain Lieutenant John Johnson of Knox's artillery and tell her that her husband was wounded and taken prisoner, but is being taken care of. Also wants the wife of John Callender told that he was taken prisoner as well. Notes that the Continental Army is in high spirits and there has been no new developments since the retreat at the Battle of Long Island. Shaw was a lieutenant in Knox's artillery regiment.

Comments that he hoped he would receive news that Knox had gotten the promotion he deserved, but was disappointed to find that Congress had decided not to consider it at present. Comments, However disagreeable it would be for an officer in your station to quit the army, especially at a juncture so promising as the present, yet I am to well persuaded of your inflexibility in a resolution taken upon the clearest grounds, that I look on your resignation as a certain consequence, Should they refuse or unnecessarily delay to comply with the reasonable expectations of yourself and friends. Adds that he knows Knox's desire to fight for his country is great, but that Knox would never do anything to injure his own personal honor. Extends congratulations regarding the birth of his son: children are a treasure which will support a person under every kind of adversity, and even compensate him for the ingratitude of his country.