Knox, William, 1756-1795 to Henry Knox

Wanted to be in Philadelphia by 1 March, but thinks it will more likely be 3 or 4 March now. Writes, "It is the general opinion here that a war will take place between England and France, several officers of the British Navy are here at present, they are hurrying home by the first vessels." Notes Mr. Macomb has been released from jail "upon the principles I lately mentioned to you." States Macomb's real estate is up for sale. Says no man "lives more at his ease" than Horatio Gates. Saw him at 3 dinner parties last week. Mentions that he "is a warm democrat; the Baron says he is a good military man, but a bad politician." And that he has good terms at the Crugar house and farm, £2,000 for the rest of his life. Gates sells £400 of produce each year after supplying the needs of his family. Reports that Mr. Van Berckel, the Dutch ambassador to the U.S. and the husband of Madame de Leval, has purchased two lots of Courtland Street and will build a home. It appears he will not return to Europe. Postscript says, "Gen. Gates says he hopes Colo. Hamilton will not think of going out, in consequence of the noisy conduct of some people, whose sole object is to get in themselves, this sentiment appears to prevail here both with respect to him and yourself."