Hamtramck reports that he has recovered his health and has resumed his former command. He talks of his progress from Natchez and comments on the land-grabbing of the people of Kentucky and Tennessee. He does not believe that Lt. Webster is doing the recruiting at Lexington that he was ordered to do.
Hamilton sends a draft of a bill regulating the medical establishment and discusses whether or not the appropriation for the augmented army ceases with the end of the present session of Congress.
Refers to Stevens's request for firewood for Governor's Island. Found a small mistake on the vouchers relative to the quantity of wood purchased, although the certificate states the correct complete amount. Believes that the accountant would demand changes in the accounts be made immediately with disbursement from the Quartermaster General. Disagrees; Stevens does not work through the Quartermaster General.
Encloses list of names submitted by the General to the Senate. Comments on several men who have not accepted the nomination or were not approved. Intends to follow guidelines for ranks by schedule.
Mentions the President's direction. Claims that the death sentence of General Brown cannot be executed; rather, outlines the requirements for an appropriate general court martial trial. Discussion of appropriate authority. Writes of the rights of the prisoner.
At the request of a committee of the Senate, McHenry has furnished them with a bill embracing the new organization of the Army and is preparing another respecting the provisional army and a third for the hospital department. General Hamilton has furnished his assistance in this mattter.
McHenry has two questions bearing on the legality of the General Court Martial: Can the Commandant of a Port or Garrison , where there a sufficient number of officers, order a General Court Martial? Do the Articles of War make the Judge Advocate, or some person properly appointed, essential to a Court Martial?
Gives background of Mr. Brinley, who bears this post. Speaks of appointment for Mr. Ellen, but admits mistake in nomination. Suggests Brinley as potential nomination.
Account of John Hills, temporary engineer and draughtsman, for credit for work on fortification of harbors and for debts for payments made to him. The balance due Hills is $116.18.
