Has examined accounts and vouchers and because he considers them fugitive claims, he cannot adjust funds for the Quartermaster's Department. This will require the work of the Auditor or the Accountant of the War Department.
An audit that includes the following entries for the years 1795-1798; total expenditures; muskets manufactured; muskets cleaned and repaired by new stocks, bayonets, ramrods, springs, and screw pins and repairing artillery carriages; and expenditures for buildings and machinery. Williams notes that it would be beneficial if Hodgdon inspected the works to determine whether any unnecessary expenses are being incurred.
Refers to a return to the armory department with a receipt to Mr. Ames for property at the post when Williams took command. Requests powder casks with specifications listed. Will forward stationary and iron.
McHenry lists in detail Hamilton's responsibilities as Inspector General. In particular, he explains the deployment of troops and the means of communications between the various garrisons throughout the states and territories of the United States.
Mr. Francis has been directed to purchase and deposit to Harris 1500 weight of best iron for upper barrels for muskets to be rolled for the use of the armory at Springfield. Deliver to Samuel Hodgdon.
Comments on General Washington's views on the US army. Refers to garrisons at Michilimackinac, along the Mississippi, in Pittsburgh, in Detroit, in Georgia, Tennessee. Mentions divisions of the army and responsibilities of the President. Refers to General Wilkinson's established headquarters. Writes of qualifications of recruits, dragoons, and cavalry. Refers to old and new establishments.
Due to the unsettled state of the military establishment, Hamtramck does not want to be promoted if it is only a temporary measure that could harm his career.
Writes of responsibilities of government while in war. Expresses concerns about US vessels sailing about the European seas. Mentions Turkey's declaration of war.
Hamilton stresses the importance of securing the opinion of the people relative to the controversy over the Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions. He suggests creating a committee to resolve issues regarding the constitutionality of the Alien and Sedition Acts which have been challenged by said Resolutions.
