Hodgdon is asked to direct Mr. Harris to forward the following articles to the men of the Corps of Artillerists and Engineers at Governors Island near New York: pairs of woolen overalls, pairs of socks, and pairs of shoes (large sizes). Since their detachments are under orders for Norfolk and Charleston these articles should be forwarded immediately via [?] and South Amboy.
Wilson finds himself astonished that he may have drawn his subsistence twice for the month of September. He assures Simmons that he will make a strict examination of his acount and rectify whatever mistake has been made.
Comments on the method of tracking expenditure estimates; mentions receiving instructions on this topic. Lists recent bills drawn; refers to expenditure estimate for October. Also discusses the sloop Detroit.
Instruction received. Notification that Wilkins is now drawing bills per estimate of expenditures for October, November, and December. Lists bills, amounts, and who they were drawn for. Enclosed list of articles traveling from New York to Presque Isle.
Winchester refers to a case between McHenry and the state, but tells him they are loathe to do anything that diminishes their revenue. He refers to politics, and how they wait for news from a distance, at the price of those at home. He discusses the political fortunes of some gentlemen in the race.
Simmons certifies that $16.06 is due Private John Killin of Captain William Purdy's late company of levies, being the balance of his pay per Abstract D. No. 108.
The Secretary of War wants to know whether there will be room in the return wagons to Knoxville for soldiers' clothing intended for the troops in that quarter while reserving space for Captain Wade's baggage and a small medicine chest. If so, what quantity of clothing would be allowed?
Articles of infantry clothing can be appropriated to make up the deficiency in artillery clothing in Colonel Rochefontaine's return if the buttons are changed. They are in the hands of the Contractor and should be ready soon. The other articles required are in the stores including: drums, wooden shells, brass shells, sets of heads, receipt books, and stationery.
John Cole and his three brothers (Tenn[-]Cole, Henry Cole, and Garrit Cole) paid. Kileltas requested information regarding sick pay for soldiers by next post.
William Polk noted allowance due Ensign Polk from his time spent recruiting, in captivity, and marching prior to his departure for the West Indies. Wm. Polk also included a deposition from Thomas LeFevre regarding pay advanced to enlisted men in Fayetteville by Ensign Polk. Wm Polk stated charges against Ensign Polk were not founded on law and he sought attention of Simmons to Polk's case.
Impossible to obtain accurate receipts and accounts from non commissioned officers who are sent to pursue deserters. Most are illiterate, and tavern keepers do not keep accounts.
He thanks McHenry for his letter, and tells him the lodgings he found for him will not do. He needs something with a little downstairs parlor and a bedroom in the neighborhood. He also thanks him for something he sent. He also mentions the election again, and closes with an aphorism about swimming.
Notification to Stevens that he will receive funds that he is to transfer to Constant Freeman for the pay and forage of the regular Army troops in Georgia.
