[Short] Gen^l William Irvine. Carlisle. War Office. March 25, 1786. Dear Sir, I received your favor of the 5^th instant to a later date, on which I beg you to receive my thanks. There are now, those who now expect, that when [undecipherable] from Detroit, I shall in some manner oblig'd to you for such communications which you may think [undecipherable] to me, as to be acquainted with [undecipherable] am interested, relative [undecipherable] moments at that post. There have not lately been any packets arrived from England; tho' you will not well be informed of the [undecipherable] of the arrivals admitting the closing of the posts. That there are rumours that Sir Guy Carleton will certainly come out to Canada with great powers, in which case it is improbable they will will relinquish their present positions, on the lakes [undecipherable]. I have communicated with a Major Craig on the subject you mentioned to him. He will let you know the probable destination of the troops the ensuing year, which, however, is not so conclusive but that it may be varied according to the bulk of circumstances. I shall be happy at all times to receive your opinions of the western country. My only object is, to dispose of the force of the nation, as shall best serve its interests. There appears to be a general Disposition rising, through the United States, to strengthen the federal government. All the states (but they) have passed the impost; and it must ultimately be the case [undecipherable] also, altho' it is not probable it will be accomplished this session. The purpose was [undecipherable] disposed for a federal commission, something like the [undecipherable] business of Congress, with the powers of negotiating trade, are generally approved, and will probably be acceded to by all the states. Captain Freeman, who was in the artillery, was to the gentlemen, your friends of Darby, is in this city, about to apply to Congress for relief concerning the money advanced by his father. There have not been in our State, since the new Congress ought to have been formed on the first monday in November, until yesterday. This has retarded his business, but he will now proceed, and it is probable may accomplish his object. I am dear Sir with great respect Your very humble Serv^t H Knox [Genl Will^m Irvine]