"The powers of Congress are totally inadequate to preserve the balance between the respective States, and oblige them to do those things which are essential for their own welfare or for the general good"

This quote by Henry Knox talks to the power of Congress to maintain a balance between the states and ensure that they are doing what is required for their own benefit and the advantage of the country as a whole. Knox is recommending that Congress does not have the power to properly impose the laws and policies required to guarantee that the states are doing what is finest for them and the nation. He is implying that Congress is not strong enough to make sure that the states are doing what is essential for their own welfare and the general excellent. This quote speaks to the requirement for Congress to have more power in order to make sure that the states are doing what is necessary for their own benefit and the advantage of the country.