The report suggests ways to improve the management and operations of the military. The report is partly inspired by the prospect of war with France and political events in Europe. McHenry outlines and explains his proposed organizational system.
Outline to improve military, pressing issue of possible war with European nation. Influenced greatly by letter from Washington to McHenry of 1798/12/13.
Due to the current state of international affairs, especially the temporizing conduct of France, Hamilton advises against any immediate augmentation of the Army. Still, he lists a number of steps that should be taken--especially regarding the addition of military arms and supplies--in case the interntional situation should darken. Plans for a military draft should be considered in case of invasion.
Certification of payments; $325.98 to Francis Mentges, agent of fortifications, for disbursements made at Mud Island Fort, for iron work and sundry gun carriages, movement of sea coast carriages, oil for gun carriages and freight of cannon.
Hawkins notifies McHenry of hunters that have taken to the woods, and of the Chiefs' cooperation. Also discussion of the capture and return of Mr. McIntosh's runaway slaves.
Since Otis has been appoined Chairman of a committee to consider extending American internal means of defense, he asks to meet with Hamilton to obtain his advice on a number of related concerns.
Hodgdon requests a directive in response to Capt. Burton's desire to turn in the property of the United States and draw arms and accoutrements for whole.
Hodgdon has received Craig's request for clothing, but the stores at Philadelphia are too poorly stocked for him to ship many articles of clothing needed in winter. Hodgdon answers some questions that Craig posed in his letter of December 14, and provides news about operations of the War Department.
Hodgdon received the return of stores from clerk William Knox, but has not had time to examine, since he has been busy getting Major Craig's cavalry and equipment underway. Acknowledges return of stores at Carlisle. Hodgdon is pleased that the chains for the artillery horses will arrive soon. Asks that Knox deliver a letter to John [Harris'?] wife.
Edward Price requests to Secretary of War a payment of $50 to John McCulloch printer of Philadelphia under orders of Benjamin Hawkins Temporary Agent Indian Affairs south of Ohio. Payment is for years 1797 and 1798
