Long time since hearing from O'Hara. Preparations made in case there is no peace treaty. Articles in estimate gone forward. Money remitted to Major Craig. Concludes that O'Hara will have drafts to support the large number of horses. Makes it clear that O'Hara has not been keeping up to date with his invoices.
Howell worries that public papers sent by Swan may have been lost or miscarried. He is transmitting the extract from the register of warrants in continuation and notes that Swan should observe the deductions made from the estimates of the pay of the troops and should retain each sgtoppage.
Lieutenant Tinley set of for Fort Washington with letters; he will take charge of stores forwarded there since Captain Pike's departure. Captain Pratt will set off in a few days. Makes mention of Lieutenant Reed. Ohio River is tolerably high for season. Mentions Joseph Nicholas and his account for attending to Wabash Indians.
The Attorney General is trying to work with the Secretary of War to deal with the issue of invalids and the Pension List. Suggests writing a letter to some of the invalids to make them aware of the present situation.
Discusses arrival of money to Craig. Has not seen letter Craig sent to Secretary of War and wonders what Quarter Master General O'Hara complains of. All of the indent is forwarded, together with clothing of artillery, cavalry, and sub legion. Legion is on the road.
Estimate of expenses will be analyzed. Notes that expenses have already exceeded estimates. Asks that dispatches for General Wayne be secretly delivered by express boat.
This document records the issues presented by the Governor to the council of war for advice on forming the military expedition against the Creek Indians.
"Sends 'an estimate of the probable amount of rations which have been and which may be issued from the 1st January 1793 to the 30th September following by Messrs. Elliot & William, contractors for supplying the western posts with provisions.'"
Wayne defends his preparations and provisioning as limited and un-aggressive. Dismisses Indian allegations of stockpiling food (as for a march) at the forts, stating only just enough for the garrisons has even been obtainable. Accounts for number of men in fort garrisons to prove that no great force has been stirring to make aggressive moves. Complains that the suggestion that he has disobeyed orders insults his honor. Asserts that an Indian confederacy opposed to the U.S. is forming, and its depredations increasing. Relates travels of new recruits to Hobson's Choice, and his measures for keeping veterans in the Legion by reenlisting all willing. Despairs of receiving many more troops or supplies now that the river is low. Tells of personal attempts to alleviate problems, by drilling troops, improving their equipment, and calling for 1500 mounted volunteers from Kentucky. Reiterates need for supplies, but states that the Legion "shall not retrograde."
Encloses extract of letter from the Secretary of the Treasury with a reply from Major Craig. Discussion of estimates and concern of Commander in Chief to provide promised supplies. Refers to recovery of horses and transportation to Pittsburgh by water.
Wayne emphasizes that he is only accumulating the number of men and provisions necessary to carry out his mission and objects to the complaints of the hostile Indians who say that the build-up indicates that he is about to invade their territory.
More formal list of regulations for preserving U.S. neutrality, based on Knox's letter of May 24 and drawn from international law. These deal with the legality of ships at war being outfitted or resupplying in American ports, especially French ships and the privateers of nations at war with France, and allow unarmed merchantmen of all nations to continue their trade in American ports. Asks that Huntington use Connecticut militia to enforce these regulations.
Itemized list by President of rules to promote neutrality of U.S. Requests the governor suppress any actions that are contrary to the above mentioned rules.
"I have the honor to submit to your consideration two questions relative to the preservation of the peace with the Creeks and Cherokees and the answers thereto by Governor Blount and General Pickens--the latter declines forming an estimate but the Governor will do it alone--"
