Dear Sir, New York Augt. 3 1776

I recd. your favor by Mr. Byers, and was very sorry to learn you was so unwell, as to be unable to conclude the buisness Mr. Byers came to you upon. The situation of affairs here is such as would render any large works which might be ercted exceedingly precarious. It is therefore prudent to have some works erected at some other place immediately. He will continue to work on the Howitzers here for the present, but most sincerely wishes you to fix upon some other place where the buisness may be carried on with less danger. He has already pick’d up 2000 lb. Copper at different prices, some at 1/9 some at 2/3. He wishes to know the extent of price you intend to give, whether you will go as high as 3/N.Y. currency. My plan would be to get the Copper first and then see about the price. I look upon having light field peices as the first Consideration of the Continent. What would you think of Norwich in Connecticut for setting up this Buisness. You there could get coal easily from Boston, and the place is pretty centrical for collecting copper from N. E. and N. York. They have fine streams of water. But this as you please. Mr. Byers also wants to know where he is to receive the money for to pay for the Copper as he purchases it. I am Sir with Respect and affection Your Very Hble. Servt.,

Henry Knox

RC ; addressed: “Honble. Robert Treat Paine Esq. Philadelphia”; postal stamps: “FREE,” “N*York, Aug: 5”; endorsed.