General Washington requires certain information to be communicated to him by the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretry of State. This information could be forwarded through McHenry but, however it is done, it should be communicated immediately to the General. The estimate of the monies wanted for the military service has been explained in several previous letters.
Washington will soon be furnished with a book containing a list of all the candidates and an abridgement of their qualifications with the original letters of recommendation. Included is a list of candidates for army appointments from General Hamilton and letters from other officers with similar lists.
States that the Baltimore Naval Committee has purchased the land for fortifications at Whetstone Point for $6,600, and that work is proceeding apace; requests $8,000 from the government for various expenses.
Information requested via a meeting with the Secretaries of State and of the Treasury and Washington, Washington deemed appropriate to obtain individually. Washington requested documents not enclosed in previous letter from McHenry. Discussed expenditures and excess funds in budget.
Certification of payments; $20 to John Griner and James Massengill for apprehending Jacob Iden and John Murphy, deserters from detachment of recruits under command of Captain Miller.
The Accountant's Office has examined the Muster and Pay Roll for October 1798 and the receipt for pay that Boote submitted at the beginning of the month and has found errors. The Receipt roll sent at the same time is fine. Simmons sends blank muster, pay, and receipt rolls with the letter.
McHenry orders Col. Stevens to furnish a quantity of overalls for the troops at the garrison in the harbor at New York and 400 pair for the garrison at West Point. Payment shall be paid in the amount of $1.50 per pair.
Washington encloses a letter from the Secretary of War listing a number of matters that deserve consideration in addition to a list of Washington's own queries relative to the organization and deployment of the Provisional Army.
Neilson experiment with materials and believed guns could be made with lighter material than brass currently in use. Neilson requested discussion on subject prior to Hamilton leaving "Seat of Government."
Amidst a discussion of supply and accounting matters, Ames want to know whether the clothing for the apprentices is to be considered articles for the use of the factory procured by Colonel Williams. Or is it his duty to deem it agreeable to the indentures and present Williams with a bill for payment to the indenturers? Is it his duty to supply the apprentices in sickness and health with meat, drink, clothing, and medicine
Replies to Hodgdon's letter by informing him that the articles turned out right according to invoice. Mentions that he has been absent from his office for awhile due to the late epidemic.
