Knox, William, 1756-1795 to Henry Knox

References Henry's letter of 8 August 1781. Updates Henry on news he has heard. Says the French fleet was to have left Newport the day before to connect up with the Compte De Grasse, who is supposed to be nearing the continent with more French ships. Says a ship was captured going from Charleston for England with letters from Colonel Balfour, which gives information relating to British plans for operations in the South. Balfour supposedly said "General Greene has exhibited such talents, as to take advantage of any opening given him by the King's Army." Balfour also supposedly said South Carolina has revolted in the backcountry, leaving the British in control of very little. Says he has heard that Lord Rawton is ill in South Carolina. Reports on events in the West Indies. Goes on to say he received the newspaper and that it appears his intelligence on Balfour's letters was exaggerated. Says the French have recently told the British that if their prisoners are mistreated that they will have to retaliate. Asks for all the news Henry can send with propriety. Imagines he must be using his French very often as he heard several important French officers do not speak English. Says he knows Henry learned the "theoretical part," of the language but that with "a little patience [it] would come easy to you." Speaks highly of the French officers he dined with while visiting Newport including the Marquis de Chastellux.