[Endorsement on cover:] [Nº] [undecipherable] [undecipherable] [undecipherable] [Persc?][undecipherable] [undecipherable] [undecipherable] public parcel no-[undecipherable] lands in America [undecipherable] friend he was not Boston, Jan: 23. 1790. Dear Sir I had the honor to write you by the last post on the subject of the pensioners. During the present Session of the General Court there have been several applications from persons disabled in the [undecipherable] for pensions. They have been generally committed to me as understanding that by the Order of the old Congress June 1780 directs that all pensioners shall apply in five months or be excluded; so that they cannot add one to the list of Pensioners [undecipherable] the claimant[s?]. The truth is this State has [undecipherable] citizens to [undecipherable] [undecipherable] that she has not been [undecipherable] of those who are pensioned to not receive [undecipherable]. Finding that it was not in our power to add to the list, I stated yesterday to the house the [absurdity?] of this [bylaw?] & reminded them of the cruelty of that order by which those of their pensioners who refused to do duty in Castle [Island?] were cut off from their pensions. As they are no longer to pay them, they are willing [that?] the [undecipherable] should be done. indeed [undecipherable] the number or many persons directly [undecipherable] face an expence to the commonwealth who ought to be supported from the revenue of the United States. And I shall esteem it a favor if you will inform me how this can be effected. The house raised a Com^ee to consider on this business & report. My idea was that it would be [undecipherable] to apply to Congress: but your opinion when communicated will perhaps render this unnecessary. knowing that you are a perfect judge of this matter and conceiving that it will be considered very much by your direction. I have taken the liberty to address you on the subject & shall delay any report of the Committee until I am favored with your answer. I have mentioned the subject to M^r Ames, but [undecipherable] that he may not be able to attend to all the circumstances with which you are [undecipherable] more immediately [under?] your observation. I here [undecipherable] thought it best to [offer?] [your?] [sentiments?]. In a dispute yesterday respecting [Still?] being on Charles River, I cast my eye on the [undecipherable] [undecipherable] had a [undecipherable] Thomas from the Eastern Country who I am informed has business at Court. He came [undecipherable] to me in conversation that there was no fresh hand [in?] [undecipherable] as is disputed by the [undecipherable] patent, and from [undecipherable] conversation with General Jackson I expect there will be an application from the settlers on that land. Without understanding the subject I may say there is no danger of their doing their injury to the heirs of the Waldo — and I only mention the mans name from the curious observation before mentioned, which convinced me whose friend he was not. I am with respect, Sir, your most obed^t Serv^t W. [Cushing?] General Knox.