Beatty informs his father of his health, and discusses his material needs. As for the military situation, "I have no news only that we moved about a mile from our old Encampment. . . ." In a postscript, mentions the desertion of one man and the execution for desertion of another.

Updates on Beatty's health and other matters. Beatty thanks his father for monies received and promises to "Restrain from Extrovagancies." He also requests that his father pay no heed to "Reports Raisd to injure Me" by "some Cowardly Rascal," but provides no further details. Closes with news on British activities in the New York City area.

Beatty communicates his need for summer stockings and reports that he recently traveled to Cecil County, Maryland to retrieve baggage belonging to the officers. He also describes seeing a French frigate leading several captured British ships. Opines that he will soon come home because "there is no Doubt of a french war which I Expect will put a stop to our troubles."

A letter largely dedicated to recent military events. Of particular note is Beatty's recapitulation of the joint action between the French and General Sullivan in Rhode Island. Also mentions that the British have "Deserters of Great Numbers" including two Hessian officers who had been American prisoners, were exchanged back to the British, but then deserted "on Account of their Good Usage While Prisoners with the Americans."

Beatty reports that, according to deserters, ". . . the Enemy has sent three Brigades from New York to the west Indies, the rest of their troops to fortify New york and Rhode Island for harbours for their shiping which they Intend to Destroy Our Trade with and Make no More Operations by land . . . ." Also asks for winter clothes "as soon as Possible for I am in great want."