The enclosed order has been transmitted to the agent at Natchez. The difficulties of managing business with the Spanish government prevented him from obtaining a regular protest.
Believed the next time O'Hara visits Philadelphia it would be for seeking contracts. Stated that if O'Hara cannot make a contract profitable, no one could. Endorsed Mr. Hewes, the first manufacturer of window glass, as a good glass manufacturer and described his work.
Accounts for the Armoury at Springfield, MA examined. Simmons found Williams owed United States money from an outstanding balance in last statement. One of the expenses was a warrant issued to Samuel Hodgdon, Williams' attorney.
Simmons enclosed account information on the Quartermaster General per request of Secretary of War. Simmons requested Dexter examine the accounts enclosed and provide his decision on the propriety of certain expenses made by different departments that reported to the Quartermaster General and appeared on his accounts.
Simmons sent Swan the account information for Lieut. William Cooper and notified him of the settlement of Cooper's accounts, Swan to hold Cooper accountable for money owed United States.
Simmons returned accounts from travel and expenses from Fort Norfolk to Harper's Ferry for the Court Martial of Capt. Blackburn. Accounts to be examined and settled with Paymaster General of respective regiment.
Secretary of War told William Miller he should have answer on warrant applied for by Miller's brother, James. Encloses letter authorizing Miller to received it
Comments on the subject of provisional army officers petitioning for positions in the artillery and old regiments -- says that this is a delicate subject, as many officers in the old establishment feel it is their right to rise in succession. Adams wishes to avoid premature action, preferring to wait until a complete list of worthy petitioning officers can be made. Encloses an officer application, and confirms the sentence of the court martial of Samuel Ewing, asking for a warrant of execution that he may sign it.
Hawkins discusses the naval bombardment of the fort at St. Mark's on the Apalachee River and encloses a letter from the Spanish Governor of West Florida.
Letter, discusses expedition along southern frontier. Deputation from the nation went down the Chattahootchee River. Ships cannonaded the St. Marks fort. Mentions William Augustus Bowles and the taking of goods by Indians.
Warrant issued in favor of Hodgdon acting attorney for Joseph Williams of Springfield. Warrant issued by Secretary of War for payment of armaments at Springfield. Simmons requested signature of Hodgdon and a return copy of document.
Enclosed are the accounts of several shipments of arms made by the order of Rufus King, U.S. minister in England. Pitcairne notes that these arms are much cheaper than those made in America and England even when including the cost of freight and insurance. They might even be had at a cheaper rate as the War in Europe draws to a close.
Miller requested from Secretary of War Samuel Dexter a warrant for $15,000 in favor of John Wilkins Jr., Quarter Master General and asks that it be delivered to Miller's brother, William Miller.
James Miller, attorney for the Quartermaster General, requests a warrant for $15,000 on account of the Quartermaster's department. Accordingly, Simmons should respond to the following questions: Has the Quartermaster General an open account?; What is the date of his last settlement?; What is the balance of his account?; Is their knowledge of the man or his transactions, that would render it hazardous to let the warrant issue?
