Simmons reports that he has received the enlistments of two recruits and a certificate of Captain Miller that has allowed him to complete the examination of Morris's recruiting account. Nicholas Fish will provide the funds for the recruiting account. His comments on Miller's certificate that appears to deal with a soldier's pay for time spent as a prisoner in captivity.
Simmons certifies that $32 is due Captain Staats Morris of the Corps of Artillerists and Engineers, being the bounty paid two recruits and the premium for enlisting them.
Notes that a treaty has been concluded with the Creek Indians reaffirming desires to live in friendship with the United States; however, asks Gaither to be prepared for contingencies. Says that the president has deemed it wise to have U.S. forces keep both the Georgians and the Creeks from intruding on each others' land and rights. Describes the extent of the land claim in question, and its value for agriculture and as a potential battlefield, that he may advise Gaither of where to position his troops, to cover the most vulnerable and desirable areas. Asks that Gaither both garrison certain named posts and establish others which are easily defended & supplied, are healthy for the garrison, and are situated to strike at the Indians promptly should war begin. Orders that the garrisons of existing forts in Georgia be reduced to cover these proposed posts. Should inform the provisioning contractors of the changes, so provisions continue to flow. Notes that Washington has ordered dragoons from Wayne's army to join the contingent in Georgia, to serve as patrollers. Requests that particular attention be made to secure patrols against surprise or theft of horses, as a matter of extreme import to the president. Encloses a copy [not included] of "An Act to regulate trade and intercourse with the Indian tribes and to preserve peace on the frontiers."
The agents of the State of Georgia appointed to attend the meetings with the representatives of the Creek Nation have refused to sell any of their lands. The President is surprised that the agents have failed to support measures intended to inspire the Indians in the fairness of the intended negotiations.
While discussing many other matters, Houdin notes that he has furnished Major Peters and Major Kersey with tents and other articles he is sure they will need as they proceed on their journey. He has asked Captain Fleming for a pair of horseman's pistols but Fleming told him that he could not furnish them without an order from Hodgdon.
Cover letter for copies of powers of attorney upon which the land warrants due to William and Robert Quarles were issued for their services as officers in the Virginia Line regiments
Simmons certifies that $936.92 is due Benjamin Hawkins, being the balance of his compensation and expenses as Commissioner for negotiating a treaty with the Creek Nation of Indians from April 19 to August 19, 1796 and expenses returning home.
Simmons certifies that $45.30 is due Joseph Strong, late Surgeon's Mate, being his pay, subsistence, and forage from May 1 to May 31, 1796, the day of his resignation.
Further addresses the obtaining of funds and transportation required by the Army Quartermaster Department. Details why he has been unable to move on these issues without knowing more about the necessary items. Describes (by line-item) the expenditures of his department and the Army Indian Department. Promises further reports on the expenditures of the army departments.
Wolcott discusses the complexities related to the treatment of French vessels who have captured prizes and wish to bring them into American ports. The handling of these cases has significant implications with regard to the neutrality of the United States vis a vis the war between Britain and France.
Simmons certifies that $162.48 is due Corporal Edward O'Connolly of Capt. Richard Sparks' Company 3rd Sub Legion, being his pay from April 1, 1794, the day he was paid prior to being captured by Indians northwest of the Ohio, to Aug. 18 1796, the day of his arrival in Philadelphia.
Four packets containing vouchers mailed today addressed to Secretary of War. List contents. Requests instructions on how to classify items in returns and what departments the item belong. Craig still seeking reimbursement for his work with Ordnance and Clothing Departments.
Attempting to ascertain how many stores in 1794 were in the public arsenal. Requests a return of stores received by Craig. Notification that Hodgdon was reappointed to receive and pay all bills.
Muster and pay rolls received. The amount due on the pay roll will be forwarded to Vischer by Nicholas Fish, federal supervisor at New York. Explains the specific accounts of soldiers Thomas Fisher and John Kelley.
