McHenry expresses his hope that General Knox will accept his appointment in the Provisional Army, with the understanding that any concerns about the relative rank of Major Generals will be resolved at a later date.
Encloses an address from the brigadier and field officers of the 3d Brigade of Maryland Militia, along with an accompanying letter from Brigadier General J. Swann to McHenry. McHenry mentions that he knows most of the officers to be valuable and influential [enclosures not included].
Refers to negative words between Knox, Hamilton, and Pinckney in regards to congressional appointment. Mentions right of Washington to appoint officers and staff.
McHenry expresses concern related to the attempt to establish the relative grade of Generals Hamilton, Knox, and Pinckney. He also notes that he must go and be with his family because his eldest child is very sick.
Mr. Henry had adopted the ideas suggested to him and Hamilton pleges his cooperation. If Mr. Wharton desires an appointment he will probably have take his chances and hope that there is a vacancy in the family of some general officer.
In some detail, Pickering expresses his support for Hamilton in the ongoing controversy over Hamilton's being appointed Inspector General over Generals Knox and Pinckney.
Regarding the procurement of guns and pistols. Regarding hemp, it will be wanted at Boston, Newport, [Portsmouth] New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and New York.
Requests enclosed letter relating to the removal of his sister from Yellow Springs be forwarded to Dr. Stafford; mentions that post boys no longer carry letters, which may be an allusion to the fever.
Order submitted to Mr. Harris for musicians suits; drum and fife. Requests enclosed letter regarding blank enlistments be sent to Mr. Ormrod; alludes to yellow fever.
Returns duplicate of "talk" [presumably a missive to be sent to the Cherokee, which had earlier been sent to Adams for approval]. Congratulates McHenry upon his recovery from illness.
Letter, encloses quarter bill, watch bill, boarding, and mess lists of the officers and crew of the United States Cutter Pickering; mentions the vessel will sail with the Herald at the first fair wind.
Hamilton discusses the request of Mr. Wharton for a position in the military establishment but doubts that there is anything available with regard to employment as a Clerk or secretary to a general officer.
Hodgdon assures Jones that he will make the best arrangements relative to suppying clothing for the recruits, given the constraints of the current shortage.
