States that he will soon enclose an abstract of articles purchased by the Secretary of War for the public works at Harper's Ferry. John Harris will be held accountable for the due application thereof.
Lewis, a clerk in the War Department, discusses the details of some accounting matters that he feels Hamilton should be cognizant of, including notification of a warrant for Hamilton's pay, subsistence, and forage for the last two months of 1798.
In settling all accounts exhibited by the Quartermaster General for money expended by him in pursuance of orders from the General of the Army, Simmons should be guided by the principles that have been adopted by the proper officers of the Treasury Department.
Acknowledges that he has received an invoice of arms and clothing, including seventeen knapsacks and canteens not inserted in the invoice. Notes that some of the clothing - particularly the shirts, overalls, and blankets - got wet and may be damaged.
Capt. Stoddard complains of the size of the barracks in which his troops are forced to live and recommends that troops not be stationed in their own neighborhoods where the influence of family and friends can be detrimental.
Enclosed letter for Washington's tailor regarding fixed style of uniforms for varying grades of officers. Specifics on Washington's desires for the style of uniform.
Hamilton believes that any law related to insolvency passed before the adoption of the U.S. Consitution probably infringes on the provision of that document dealing with the obligation of contracts. He offers his suggestions for a new law that would overcome that obstacle.
In return for Indian friendship, General Wilkinson has promised an annual stipend to a Chickasaw chief, Wolf's Friend, who is now in Philadelphia. Considers different points on the wisdom of filling such a request, including: that Wolf's Friend comes from a faction of Chickasaw not yet closely allied to the U.S.; no individual chief has ever been given a stipend, only part of the sum for the nation; foreign relations with Spain, etc. Recommends giving an equal gift to each of the heads of the Chickasaw factions, in return for support of the U.S. Also informs of a sum promised to a Cherokee chief for his help in concluding a U.S.-Cherokee treaty. Notes that Wolf's Friend desires an audience with the president. Mentions that a Seneca chief is in the city looking to collect on gifts promised to that nation; discusses how sums for this purpose may be drawn from the Bank of the United States.
Hamilton is able to submit only a partial survey to Jay due to inadequate engineering support. More investigation and thought is needed before a specific plan can be proposed to the Legislature.
Amidst a discussion of a number of accounting matters, Edward Day notes that a suit was instituted by James Caldwell in a moment of discontent against the Commissary General. This prevented a consolidation of the claim at the general settlement made in Hodgdon's office but the errors of that transaction have since been corrected.
