Harris is asked to deliver to Captain Decatur for the ship of war "Delaware" a sufficient quantity of cartridge paper for 100 nine pound and 200 six pound cartridges. These are in lieu of the 1000 nine and six pound blank cartridges ordered earlier.
There is a better prospect of the frigate being properly manned. The officers thus far appointed seem to be a good crew. Higginson states they want the "usual arrangements" for service, as far as men, marines, regulations and rations are concerned. They news from Nantes is that Marshal is there and Pinckney was expected. Gerry remained in Paris.
Hodgdon alerts Halsey that the saltpeter he forwarded falls short of the amount indicated on the invoice, probably due to loss due to drying and loss during transportation.
Chief Clerk Calwell says he was not unmindful of Dale's request respecting the French and English colours. Mentioned this to Tench Francis. Not procured yet. When procured will send with Mr. Hubrecamp, pilot. Notes that the "film" is daily falling from more eyes. Sends copies of John Fenno's newspaper. Has directed Hubrecamp to call on Mrs. Dale.
The ship of war Delaware, formerly the Hamburg Packet, nearly complete. McHenry ordered Miller to set sail and offer sailors pay for service at sea, response to offer to be reported to the War Dept. immediately. Men to return to Infantry duty after sea voyage.
Preparations with ship Delaware, formerly Hamburg packet, complete. Requires Marines on board. Indispensable that ship put to sea to guard commerce along coast of United States. Propose to recruits that they be Marines, temporarily. Describes pay by rank. When Marines no longer wanted on Delaware, are to return to Infantry.
McHenry encloses a letter written by a Frenchman who held a commission under the state of North Carolina during the Revolutionary War. The letter, addressed to Governor William Blount of the Southwest Territory, speaks of the Jay Treaty and U.S. relations with France.
Refers to previous purchase of stock with the Bank of Baltimore. Reports that son George is not as anxious to quit the army because of the change in his seniors, although it remains difficult.
Bedinger is ordered to send tents to Capt. Blackburn at Norfolk. Hodgdon needs to wait for further information from Major Langham before he can settle with Maryland. The amount for transporting the tents will be provided after Fleming returns.
