[The Honble Henry Knox Esqr Secretary at War a Philadelphia [undecipherable] by [undecipherable]] [XXVII - 119] Boston January 22^d 1791 [5620] Dear Sir From a recollection of former times, I trust an apology for this Letter is unnecessary, and from a continuance of the same friendship which has long subsisted between us. you will accept my sincere congratulations on your promotion, and permit me to add a wish that you may continue to merit and to enjoy with all its blessings the confidence of the best of Men, the President, and of a generous People Of my attachment to the cause of my country, and of my early exertions in support of the same you are too well acquainted to need a particular recital at this time - - compensation for those exertions, (except when in Connecticut,) other than what flowed from an attention to duty, I never did nor do I ever expect to receive My wishes to serve the Public have not abated, provided in rendering service there; I do not injure myself at home - confiding in your friendship I communicate freely and should have been happy to have seen you when last in Boston, but business detained me in the County of York. Perceiving a new arrangement about to take place in the Militia, I have thought that an appointment in that department might be advantageous, or in any other if that could not be obtained. I have conferred upon the subject with our mutual and Honourable friend General Lincoln to whom pleased to be informed he is particularly informed of my wishes, and I doubt not I shall experience your attention. In the debates respecting the Militia I desire mention is made the Ancient and Honourable Artillery Company of Massachusetts which was incorporated in 1638 and possessing a Charter from Government has at all times conducted in conformity thereto, and by its attention to Military duty has been essentially beneficial - our respected friend Gen Lincoln being a member of the Company is acquainted with particulars concerning it — any services you may render it I am sure will be kindly received and gratefully acknowledged with sentiments of [undecipherable] I am Dear Sir Your devoted & Most Able Serv[undecipherable] Josiah Watson [Honourable Gen Knox]