Acknowledges receipt of round shot and bar shot for six pounders, nine pounders, twelve pounders, and eighteen pounders, agreeable to an order from the War Office, for the use of the Algerian brig and two schooners, to be paid for by the Secretary of State.
Encloses proposal by Col. Hawkins to establish a silversmith at the post. Reports process of building his own accommodations. Refers to case of insubordination and frays between Indians and soldiers. Includes list of people licensed to trade in the Creek Nation.
Writing from the Navy Department, Benjamin Stoddert informs McHenry that he intends to move 148 French prisoners from New Castle to Lancaster. He asks for more men to augment the 18 Marines as they transfer the prisoners. Asks for an officer and 20 men.
Jackson discusses the case of Lieutenant Cobb who, because of a derangement of the Army, lost two year's opportunity to rise in rank. He has been reinstated in the Artillery but now finds himself in the position of having to obey those he once commanded. He and his family are honest and respectble and zealous friends of the federal government. Jackson requests that Cobb be given command of one of the companies to be raised.
Enclosed an abstract of articles purchased by E. Stevens, agent at New York, Hodgdon notified Simmons he would make the appropriate entries in his books and hold Stevens accountable for the expenses.
Hamilton, Washington, and Pickney in Philadelphia to raise enlarged army. Hodgdon advised Van Rensselaer to make claim to men if he believes he has rights to command.
Hodgdon believes that in times of peace small repairs to musketry at posts contiguous to cities should be made by private workmen. The wear on the muskets and cost of transportation to military repairmen would be greater than if the repairs were done privately.
After giving his opinion as to the kinds of field pieces that should be provided to the State of New Jersey, Hodgdon states his belief that iron field pieces are as effective as brass field pieces even though they cost much less.
Hodgdon has received the abstract of articles purchased by Ebenezer Stevens as Agent for the War Department in New York, for which he is held accountable.
McHenry mentions that the War Dpt. is simplifying accounts. Thus a Lt. Swan is being assigned to the payment of all troops on the Mississippi; Guion is to provide a full account of bills drawn, together with their purposes, and desist making any more drafts upon the War Department.
Submits his views of the subjects for communication between the heads of departments and generals. Argues that France aims at "universal dominion" and that the vices of her government render war indispensable to her. Suggests that President Adams should recommend to Congress in his speech to immediately declare war against France, although open to another alternative from the President as long as it falls in the best interests of the nation. Heavily criticizes the "faction" heading the domestic opposition against anti-French policies, calling them "enemies" of the government.
Promise of adequate supplies. Anxious to utilize the proper departments. Expresses trust in his careful deliberation. Believes Pickering will have more notes of the speech.
Captain Stille confirms receipt of 200 pairs of overalls from Ebenezer Stevens, Agent for the War Department. The overalls are for Stille's Company and that of Captain Reed of the Second Regiment of Artillery stationed at West Point as part of the uniform established by the government for said troops.
