Hamilton forwards a letter from Justus Barnum who is applying for a majority in the Army. Colonel Taylor has apprised Hamilton that he views Barnum and his application favorably.
Hamilton reports to General Washington on the state of recruiting and supplying what he refers to as the Provisional Army. He observes that If McHenry's actions were the equal of his good intentions, the public service would benefit immensely.
Neither the President nor the Secretary of the Treasury seem entirely convinced of the utility of such an army.
Received letter about medicine and hospital stores marked Fort Massac and West Florida. The Secretary of War suggests the whole supply be sent to Fort Massac. The commanding officer there should wait for more direction from General Wilkins about what to keep there and what to send out to the various posts. Requests that he write to the commanding officer of Mississippi to inform him of the supplies at Fort Massac and to wait for orders from Wilkinson. A trunk has been forwarded to Jonathon Schieffelin in Detroit which should be sent by the first conveyance. Hodgdon has gone to New York but will return in a few days.
Certification of payment; $176.96 Captain James Stettel, 2d Regiment Artillerists and Engineers, for bounties and enlistment premiums and expenses pursuing deserters.
Reports clothing for New York, New Haven, and Trenton is packed and ready for shipment. Clothing for Pennsylvania is also ready. Prepares shipment for Massachusetts to ensure correct number of supply, as well as for Maryland regiments, with reference to Virginia and North Carolina.
