Reviews the case of Hugh McAlister and the general practice for payments to those who apprehend deserters; points out that the regulation of this system depends on the construction of the governing resolution, the last resolution in the Appendix to the Articles of War. McHenry had asked that Simmons consult with the Treasury Comptroller on this issue, but notes that Simmons' previous reply did not expressly answer the question. McHenry is advocating a passage stating that soldiers _or_ citizens apprehending deserters shall be entitled to the advertised reward, as the current wording does not appear to mention civilians. Notes that Simmons' grounds for the rejection of McAlister's certificate were not stated in that rejection, and asks for an explanation.