Balance of appropriations for fortifications of ports and harbors. The Treasury Department notes that there are some unsettled accounts that will likely amount to not much more than $2,000.
President Adams notifies Washington of his nomination to be the Commander-in-Chief of the Provisional Army. Adams assures Washington that the Secretary of War would assist him while Adams is traveling.
In the absence of Captain Morris, Dyson has received the letter enclosing an invoice of clothing for Lieutenant Shoemaker which will be forwarded as soon as a conveyance can be arranged. The [?] has been delivered according to Hodgdon's instructions.
McHenry notifies this temporary engineer at Baltimore that Major Tousard has been instructed to inspect the fortifications at Whetstone Point and make plans for their improvement. These plans are to take into account the defense of both the city and the fort itself against direct attack, as well as the fact that the scarce funds allotted for the fort must include the purchase of additional land. Mentions possibility that the city may have to provide additional funds for the fort to be completed adequately.
Instructions for the planning of defenses at Whetstone Point, Baltimore. Key considerations: defense of the city, defense of the fort from both land and sea attack, and the limited budget of $20,000, out of which land for the fort must be purchased. McHenry hopes the citizens of Baltimore might contribute additional funds, but cannot anticipate such an occurrence.
McHenry notifies this temporary engineer at Baltimore that Major Tousard has been instructed to inspect the fortifications at Whetstone Point and make plans for their improvement. These plans are to take into account the defense of both the city and the fort itself against direct attack, as well as the fact that the scarce funds allotted for the fort must include the purchase of additional land.
The Commander in Chief has directred Wilkins to send the enclosed pattern for belts for the troops. If the Secretary of War approves, 3300 yards should be purchased and sent to Headquarters as soon as possible.
Hyde believes he may have left a return for provisions and a ration order on Simmons' table and asks that Simmons complete the work for him if possible. He discusses popular opinion of Adams and Gallatin and mentions the Independence Day celebrations in Pittsburgh.
President John Adams asks James McHenry to offer George Washington the commission of Lieutenant-General and Commander-in-chief of the U.S. armies. Adams also seeks Washington's advice in the formation of a list of officers, wishing to have his opinion on the man most suitable for Inspector-General, Adjutant-General, and Quartermaster-General.
