In addition to a reference to an attempt to repeal the Alien and Sedition Acts, Sedgwick discusses the difficulties in supplying sufficient clothing to the troops in the widely dispersed Army. He mentions an encounter with John Adams in which Adams expressed his suspicion that some were attempting to diminish his authority by expanding the powers of General Washington.
Certification of payments; $642.71 to a Company of 1st Regiment Artillerists and Engineers stationed at Fort Johnston, South Carolina under command of Captain Michael Kalteisen, for forage and pay.
Joshua Orne is informed of his appointment as agent of fortifications at Marblehead, Massachusetts. His compensation will be three percent of the sums he pays in execution of his duties as agent provided the disbursements do not exceed $5000.
Stoddert discusses the circumstances surrounding the relative rank of Navy Captains Truxton, Talbot, and Dale. He criticizes the President for continuing more captains than there are frigates to accommodate them.
Hamilton states that it would be useful for him to acquire a statement of the officers of the Corps of Artillerists and Engineers and also the distribution of them among the different portions of the corps.
Along with a discussion of the distrubtion of the States into recruiting districts, Hamilton makes the point that political considerations should not always overrule military aptitude in the appointment of officers, especially those in the inferior grades.
Simmons explains certain actions by Caleb Swan, Paymaster to the Troops, that have been called into account by John Steele, Comptroller of the Treasury. Swan affirms that he possesses all the requisite rolls and receipts and has complied with all the forms proscribed by his original instructions except those of the Commanding Officer of the Warrants which it was not in his power to obtain.
Advised current legion be divided. Requested official letter regarding the reorganization if approval was given. Discussed promotion of officers, duties of president.
Stevens is directed to deliver 25 cases containing 500 muskets with locks mounting and two casks containing 63,500 flints to the order of Samuel Hodgdon, Intendent of the stores of the United States.
Has examined accounts and vouchers and because he considers them fugitive claims, he cannot adjust funds for the Quartermaster's Department. This will require the work of the Auditor or the Accountant of the War Department.
An audit that includes the following entries for the years 1795-1798; total expenditures; muskets manufactured; muskets cleaned and repaired by new stocks, bayonets, ramrods, springs, and screw pins and repairing artillery carriages; and expenditures for buildings and machinery. Williams notes that it would be beneficial if Hodgdon inspected the works to determine whether any unnecessary expenses are being incurred.
Refers to a return to the armory department with a receipt to Mr. Ames for property at the post when Williams took command. Requests powder casks with specifications listed. Will forward stationary and iron.
