General Washington expresses his confidence in the ability and integrity of Colonel William Smith and wonders how Abijah Hammond could have been considered for the post of Lieutenant Colonel Commandant instead of Smith. He suspects that Major Burrows has voiced suspicions respecting Smith but regards those suspicions as entirely unfounded.
Reorganization of states into military districts deemed unnecessary. Recruiting practices discussed with urgency, Washington advised preparation for war so as to be ready for possible engagements with Europe. Standing army, and allocated finances for military advocated. Advised on locations of magazines, winter quarters for troops, and forts.
Hodgdon requests accounts of stores delivered to Francis and the Navy Board as well as an estimate of accounts made until the beginning of the ensuing year.
Certification of payments; $60 to Jean Foncin for completing sundry drafts of furnaces for the purposes of heating shot for iron battering rams for the harbor Charleston South Carolina.
Certification of payments; $18 pay to Private Isaiah Matthews, 4th Sub Legion, killed by the savages on 3 September 1796 to be paid to attorney Lewis B. Morris for Jesse Matthews, father of Isaiah Matthews.
Major Cushing is extremely desirous that he be reimbursed for the expenses he incurred when ordered by General Wilkinson to proceed from Tennessee to the seat of government. The principle of settlement should be that "reasonable expenses" should be provided based on similar claims in the past.
John Laurance, president of Senate responded to Adams address and stated the U.S. gov't concurred with the continuation of defense of seas against French-sanctioned privateers and capture of British goods.
Sugar and coffee and other merchandise are costly to the purchaser in Knoxville. Therefore, Wright asks that a small quantity of these articles be sent with Colonel Henley's wagoner. He will pay for them, including freight, upon their arrival.
In letter to Hodgdon, Lt. Many laments having to pay passage. Document from Hodgdon indicates payment to German for passage of Many and of detachment of troops under Lieutenant Many consisting of 41 privates and subalterns in ship South Carolina from Philadelphia to Charleston South Carolina.
Receipt of Major Lewis Tousard of $200 for compensation and expenses from Philadelphia to New Port Rhode Island to inspect fortifications and laying down the plans.
