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An explanation of various difficulties that had arisen. Dispatches from France had arrived at Boston on the frigate Alliance, but all of them had been sent on to Washington. He tells Rochambeau that the militia troops collected for the summer operations were to be dismissed for lack of subsistence for them, and gives news of operations in Bergen County, New Jersey, and in the vicinity of Paulus Hook and Fort Lee.

Concerning preparations for the Hartford conference between Rochambeau and Washington. After referring to General Gates' disastrous defeat at Camden, he speaks again about the delay in the dispatches, and about Washington's difficulties with a letter in French from Rochambeau.

News that no dispatches have been received from the French government about the second division.

A notification that de Grasse is on his way to America, with 20 ships. He also tells him that 1,500,000 livres is being shipped to him in several ships.

Complains of the lack of flour in the fleet, and the methods for getting a supply to him.

A warning to Rochambeau that preparations were being made in New York harbor for a ship movement, with Rhode Island as a possible destination.

Writes of the end of the Revolutionary War and his retirement to Mount Vernon, and states, "I shall recollect with pleasure, that we have been Contemporaries & fellow labourers in the cause of liberty, and that we have lived together as Brothers should do - in harmony & friendship." This letter differs in many details with the letter printed in The Writings of George Washington, ed. John C. Fitzpatrick, vol. 27, pp. 316-317.

Concerns the dispatches from France, which have not yet arrived. He also reports that the second division has not yet left France, and appears unlikely to do so soon.

Tells Rochambeau that the battle of Cape Henry has greatly changed the opinion of Americans about the French navy. He informs Rochambeau that a great naval force was being prepared in France, probably for America, and that it was of the greatest importance that both Rochambeau and the American army be ready to act when assistance comes.

Concerns financial difficulties in Philadelphia. In response to an appeal from Rochambeau, he says that he is able to furnish only 40 to 60,000 livres, and that money is extremely scarce.