Harris is directed to deliver to Samuel Hodgdon the military stores in the enclosed list to be transported to the frigate "Constation," anchored at Boston.
Hodgdon is asked to have the military stores on the enclosed list transported to Boston for the use of the Frigate "Constitution." McHenry wants to know what part of these articles are deposited in the public stores.
McHenry advised an increase in naval power to protect trade. Erection of forts, and other necessary buildings all to be funded by government. President to be given authority over navy in times of necessity. McHenry referred to bill proposed in Senate for his aforementioned military improvements.
Dyson has sent to Simmons $61 in receipts for bounty money paid to recruits enlisted by him. He is now transmitting receipts for $24 which should be placed to his credit. No clothing has yet arrived at Port Tobacco.
Account of a conversation with the Chevalier Yruho, who visited the Adamses in Quincy, Massachusetts. Mentions that Yruho engaged in a non-personal diplomatic dispute with Secretary Pickering respecting what he thought were American plans to invade Louisiana. Stresses that Spain should act reasonably and that the United States is the best neighbor that Spanish colonies could have, as long as they pursue a sensible line of conduct. Argues that if France were to get Louisiana, they would likely extend their power. Chevalier Yruho insists that Spain has no intentions to hand Louisiana over to the French.
Hale paid off men mustered in January and February, planned to pay off remaining troops to "make his accounts more regular" prior to his absence and turning over men in his command to Capt. Frye. Request for money to settle bounty due troops.
Simmons informs Miller that his pay and muster rolls have arrived and that payment will be delayed until Congress passes the necessary appropriations. This letter reflects the troops displeasure over not being paid.
Certification that $263.11 is due a detachment of recruits at Middletown under the command of Captain Edward Miller, being the pay of himself and Ensign Samuel Parmele and the non-commissioned officers and privates for March 1798.
Certification that $23.61 is due Private Timothy Haley of the Corps of Artillerists and Engineers, being his pay from October 1, 1797 to March 28, 1798, the day of his discharge.
Request to hire new clerk of the navy yard in Baltimore following assignment of previous ship yard clerk Isaac Garretson as purser of frigate Constellation. Pay for clerk at ship yard $400 per year.
