Received letters from Pickering that requested money be remit. Triplett to receive an advance from Col. Fitzgerald, collector at Alexandria, after which he is to proceed to Hampton and board Truxtun's ship.
In the absence of the Secretary at War, James McHenry the President has charged Timothy Pickering with interim duties. Accordingly, Pickering writes to John Fitzgerald. Colonel John Fitzgerald is the Collector of the Port of Alexandria. Issue is matter of pay for seaman and Marines aboard frigate Constellation. Requests that Fitzgerald advance $700 to Triplett.
Asks Fitzgerald to advance $700 to a naval officer of the USS Constitution to provide for the enlistment of seamen and Marines for that ship, that it may put to sea as soon as possible. Promises quick reimbursement.
By order of the Commander in Chief articles destined for Lake Erie and the galley were shipped on the Ohio with the general. These articles should be replaced as soon as possible: canvas, train oil, white lead, 2 &1/2 inch cordage, and spun yarn.
William Steele transmits to William Simmons John Habersham's receipt applied to defray incidental and contingent expenses for Department of War in Georgia.
O. McGinty only prisoner/deserter to be sentenced to pay stoppage. Enclosed copies of court martial hearing to support statement. Tousard requested the pay of two deserters in next months pay roll.
Amidst a discussion of accounting matters, Captain Guion warns that there are reports that the French are planning an attack on the southwestern country. Considerable military forces have supposedly landed at Pensacola and at Mobile.
Enclosed is a bill drawn in Butler's favor for $428.95 which Hodgdon should pay to William Laffe for stores and other articles purchased for Butler's use.
