Concerning an order from the Secretary of War; says that the absence of Mr. Meredith has prevented him from completing the job, but that it will be finished upon his return.
Enclosed is a check that covers three month's pay for Sorber's service as keeper of the magazine at Germantown and an order for a barrel of musket powder.
Hodgdon urges Smith to see that the pattern articles of clothing reach their final destination as quickly as possible. He laments that Philadelphia is still covered with a thick gloom due to the fever that is ravaging the city.
In the enclosed letter, Wadsworth transmits the subsistence accounts and contingent account of the USS United States. He also wishes for his respects to be paid to recently deceased colleagues.
McHenry has received a letter from Capt. John Heth in Natchez which sets forth sundry items of clothing due Allen Townsend, late a soldier in Heth's company. McHenry wants Simmons to report to him the money he should receive, based on current contract prices for the items in question.
Since it will be necessary to begin enlistments to the southward , Washington should send his list of men to be assigned to the proposed four regiments. McHenry admits he is at a loss in selecting a commandant for the Artillerists and Engineers. Mr. King says that the Emperor of Germany and King of Naples have formed an alliance in case of an attack by France. The conduct of the US seems to have imbued Europe with fresh hope and courage.
Amidst a discussion of the settlement of the accounts of John Lafbury [?], William Turner, and Henry Turner, Craig notes that all of the Philadelphia ship carpenters have been dismissed except James Owner [?], the Superintendent, and Duncan Campbell. Campbell will also be dismissed after the galley waiting for the use of the Allegheny River is launched.
Comegys is grateful that Hodgdon and his family are well despite being surrounded by death. He has recovered from a severe illness and is joyful that his good lady has presented him with a charming little girl. He had hoped that a change in the weather at Germantown might be beneficial but there have been several recent cases as well as a death
Because he does not have sufficient money to pay for an interment, Fisher relies on Hodgdon's friendship in settling his account in a timely manner. Or perhaps Hodgdon could attach a note to his account that it will be paid when the War Office returns to Philadelphia which would enable him to borrow the money he needs.
Enclosed are returns of ordnance, quartermaster, and military stores for Fort Wolcott. Littlefields recruits are wanting for proper uniforms. He informs Hodgdon that if there is not a sufficient supply of shoes and hats they can be furnished at the fort, one dollar purchasing either a pair of shoes or a hat.
Amidst a discussion of the settlement of the accounts of John Lafbury [?], William Turner, and Henry Turner, Craig notes that all of the Philadelphia ship carpenters have been dismissed except James Owner [?], the Superintendent, and Duncan Campbell. Campbell will also be dismissed after the galley waiting for the use of the Allegheny River is launched.
Washington determines the arrangement of rank for the Generals in the Provisional Army: Henry Knox first, Charles Cotesworth Pinckney second, and Alexander Hamilton third. Actual letter not available.
