"...It will be satisfactory to me, as far as may be convenient, to receive from from time to time statements of the situation & progress of the insurrection in Pennsylvania."
Strong describes his attempts to keep his soldiers from partaking of spiritous liquors including the posting of a sentinal in front of a saloon. This latter provoked the saloon keeper to sue Strong for trespass.
The Secretary of War requests information from enclosed papers. Captain Littlefield's letter indicates that Thomas Hallam is in NY. Hallam will know what happened to the 3 medicine chests and surgeon's instruments and how to proceed.
McHenry responds that Gilmor's letter of mid-February concerning the sending of an engineer to oversee Fort McHenry's construction was received, but not answered as there was trouble finding a suitable engineer. Such a person has now been employed, however, and will set out for Baltimore within the week.
Amidst a request for files and other goods, Mackey notes that he has not heard a word of the insurrection in Pennsylvania. He hopes that a few of the ringleaders are treated according to the merits of their conduct.
Fisher observes that General Murray has given him permission ot occupy the courthouse as a rendezvous but he has had some difficulty convincing the local people to haul wood and straw.
Hare transmits the proceedings of the General Court Martial held for the trial of Capt. Samuel Vance. Since there are no other cases, the court will be adjourned.
Capt. Henry reports on the progress of his detachment which has been delayed by unfavorable weather. Lieutenant Boote has been asked to deliver to the Quartermaster any clothing that is not being used by his detachment so that it can be made available to Henry's soldiers.
Hamilton points out the defective wording in the Non-Intercourse laws and approves the Governors of each State being regarded as the first General of the State Militia. He seeks an endorsement of young Wharton who has been recommended for appointment as his secretary.
These are McHenry's orders to General MacPherson respecting the suppression of the insurrection in the Counties of Northhampton, Montgomery, and Bucks in Pennsylvania (Fries's Rebellion). He is to form a detachment from the volunteers of that state as part of the provisional army that includes two volunteer companies of cavalry from Philadelphia.
Continuation to reject the execution based on just authority of the government in Northampton County. Mentions cases of open violence. Requests detachment of volunteers with a paymaster and a quartermaster. Requests assistance marching prisoners to Philadelphia. Delineates responsibilities with the militia with utmost vigilance and ability to march at the shortest notice and outlines troops sent to Reading as well as other nearby locations. Mentions authorization of the President. Outlines instructions for the troops.
