Hodgdon has received Craig's request for clothing, but the stores at Philadelphia are too poorly stocked for him to ship many articles of clothing needed in winter. Hodgdon answers some questions that Craig posed in his letter of December 14, and provides news about operations of the War Department.
Hodgdon received the return of stores from clerk William Knox, but has not had time to examine, since he has been busy getting Major Craig's cavalry and equipment underway. Acknowledges return of stores at Carlisle. Hodgdon is pleased that the chains for the artillery horses will arrive soon. Asks that Knox deliver a letter to John [Harris'?] wife.
Edward Price requests to Secretary of War a payment of $50 to John McCulloch printer of Philadelphia under orders of Benjamin Hawkins Temporary Agent Indian Affairs south of Ohio. Payment is for years 1797 and 1798
Since Mr. Lawrence has expressed his regret at the nomination of his son, perhaps young Harrison, the son of the District Attorney, could be nominated in his stead.
Smith responds to what he considers "erroneous" political charges against him, claiming that he is uninfluenced by British or French politics, only believing in the politics of independence. Smith is exceptionally worried about his reputation as these alleged charges of misconduct seek to undermine his integrity. Smith defends himself against charges from William Burrows and William Constable.
Hamilton notes that the practice of annexing counties to the names of military nominations will almost certainly lead to errors and provides one example of such an error.
Expressed empathy for Gov. Sergeant who has lost more goods via river transportation than any other official Craig has sent provisions to at western posts. No news of the events at the Great Council. Hodgdon dines with Heads of State tomorrow and will inquire into Craig's claim for compensation. Requests account information Gov. Sergeant's property to be sent to Judge Hilton. Authorization to enter into contract to ship goods to Natchez.
Certification of payments; $4.21 to Private Peter Weaver under Captain Henry Kuhns Company, 16th Regiment of Maryland militia, called out to suppress an insurrection in the Western counties of Pennsylvania, for protecting magazine at Fredericktown, Maryland.
Certification that $419.13 is due a detachment of the Corps of Artillerists and Engineers stationed at Fort Niagara under the command of Maj. John Jacob Ulrich Rivardi, being the pay of Captain James Bruff, Lieutenant and Quartermaster John McClallen (including forage), and the non-commissioned officers and privates, for October 1797.
While denigrating the abilities of the President of the United States and the Secretary of War, Gunn declares his availability to serve in the Provisional Army so long as he is not required to serve with certain officers.
Ames inquires as to whether clothing for the apprentices is to be considered articles for the factory and therefore to be procured by Colonel Williams or is it his duty to procure it agreeable to the indentures. If it is not his duty to procure it according to the indentures should not the responsibility be with Colonel Williams?
Hodgdon discusses the steps that need to be taken before rectifying the account of Mr. Marts for the storage of military goods deposited by Captains Carberry and Price.
