Reports of an ulcer on leg which has prevented leaving with last of troops departing Harpers Ferry. Reports on medical supplies; mentions pay and desire to know next destination and status of extra pay for attending to Indians.
A significant amount of public money in the charge off Captain Charles Hyde, acting as paymaster for the 1st U.S. Regiment, remains unaccounted for. The amount now attributed to his debit stands at $79,000, and although Hyde has been repeatedly called upon by Simmons in line with the request of the Paymaster General, Hyde has not yet complied. The instructions of the Comptroller General of the Treasury direct Simmons to request punctual settlement of accounts, and when an officer fails to comply it is Simmons' duty under the articles of war to report that officer to the Secretary of War. Simmons provides Dexter with copies of the Paymaster General's thoughts on the matter as well as copies of Simmons' letters to Hyde and Hyde's replies. Simmons feels that granting Hyde any further lenience would be contrary to his duty.
Capt. Charles Hyde of the 1st US Regiment, was appointed paymaster to that regiment sometime in 1794, and received considerable sums of money of which a greater part remains at this time unaccounted for. $79,000 currently stands in his debt and he has been repeatedly called upon to settle his account. To grant further indulgence would not be performing Simmons' duty to the public so the matter is referred to Dexter.
This letter directs the Commanding Officer to assist Mr. Cooper's exploration of the copper mines on Lake Superior. Cooper is introduced as the son of a Congressman from New York.
This letter discusses the purchase of Mr. Cranch's mill and tools for public use. Also, mention is made of Jonathan Williams' efforts to educate Indians.
Letter from Joseph Williams, Paymaster and Public Storekeeper at the Springfield Armory, to William Simmons, War Department Accountant. Cited in Simmons to Williams
Congratulated government offices on their move to the District of Columbia. Urged Congress to maintain "pacific policy" with European nations relative to maritime shipping and trade. Fortification of sea ports and harbors necessary, however additional allocation of funds was for Congress to decide.
Common politeness should have dictated to the General the propriety of calling on Hodgdon on his way out of the city. No apology can be made except as applies to a uniformity in his conduct. The delay in the inquiry is apparently due to an indisposition on the part of one of the Commissioners. A state of anxiety and suspense will remain with Williams until this business is finished. Poor Lyman is afflicted with sores breaking out all over his body.
Major Craig expresses regret to Samuel Hodgdon after receiving news of the fire that destroyed the War Department building and records. Craig anticipates much confusion from the loss.
