Knox, Henry, 1750-1806 to Anthony Wayne

Thanks him for his recent letter. Accepts his congratulations for the newly-formed federal government and "our truly illustrious Cincinnatus [George Washington] to be head thereof." Extensively discusses diplomatic relationships between countries in Europe, especially an alliance between Great Britain, the Netherlands and Prussia, which was created to offset France and Russia's alliance. Comments that the British mercantile class "is for war with some power, not on a general scale of Justice or policy, but for the benefit of trade." Says America requires peace, as she "is not consolidated sufficiently ... She requires time to create and arrange her resources." Also discusses disturbances on the Georgia frontier and says that the president has laid the matter before Congress. If troops are needed, Knox suggests raising a special force rather than relying on militia. He goes on to discuss "the Spanish claims" and arrangements in the Indian Department. Month portion of the date added later in pencil.