Informs Colonel Moore that he has no objection to his short absence from the regiment, however, advises that in the future he request it from General Hamilton, as to not show disrespect.
Reminds Adams of a May 1799 request, via newspapers, that all officers absent on furloughs report themselves to General Hamilton; notes that this has not had its desired effect, and a stronger measure is needed. Encloses a letter to be sent to all such officers of the 4 old regiments and the 1st Regiment of Artillerists & Engineers, which asks all of them to report to McHenry, and notifying them that they will be at the mercy of the president if they do not comply.
In addition to enclosing his returns for July and August, Kalteisen warns that he has scarcely any clothing on hand. The overalls which appear to be on hand were sent to Captain Heyer and have not been returned so he is without these articles.
Reports that all is going well with Indian talks. Promises to send a flag for their next feast. Apologizes for trouble of horse given by Colonel Butler, then taken away. Looks forward to seeing him at the next delivery of Indian supplies.
Reports a pleasant meeting with Double Head, Sechochee, and Colonel Butler. Expresses regret for not attending the last dance, but had too much business. The Indian goods have arrived and will keep their women and children warm. Asks them to stop their bad young men from stealing horses.
Bray transmits a statement of the public stores that have passed through his hands since October 20th 1797. Included are the vouchers for the articles furnished Captain Stockton's Company for which he has not received vouchers but which will be sent as soon as he receives them from headquarters at Elizabeth Town.
Encloses return of clothing for Capt. Elliott's company, stating that he will deal with the coats and vests and requesting that Hodgdon complete the rest. The clothing is needed immediately.
Aside from mourning the loss of his eldest son, Rice discusses a number of matters including his search for a site for winter quarters, his recruiting returns, the payment of the officers' bounty to the men they recruit, the importance of uniformity of discipline throughout the army, and several recommendations for lieutenancies.
A senior officer and veteran of the Revolutionary War resigns from service, citing the appointment of junior officers to command the militia as one of several reasons. Colonel Hall reflects on his memories of the Battle of Bunker Hill.
"I have lately received pressing applications from various quarters... for a supply of horsemen's tents. I can only renew the urgent requests which I have so frequently made to you...
Encloses a list of promotions and appointments for the Twelfth Regiment of Infantry and requests - if approved by the President - to have the authority to announce to the respective candidates their appointments.
McHenry submits a list of proposed promotions and appointments in the Twelfth regiment of Infantry, for Adams' approval. Two lists follow, compiled separately and contingent on whether a certain officer has resigned; the lists account for 5 first lieutenants, 6-7 second lieutenants, 1 surgeon, and two surgeon's mates.
