New York 8th June 1786.

Sir,

Yours of the 2d. Instant reach’d me this day The receipt of Colonel Stewart now removing the ]obstacle which first impeded a final settlement of your account I am ready to issue the Certificate for three hundred dollars detained from you, on your application personally, or by your orders —

I am sorry to put you to further trouble or expense, but, previous to the Certificate’s being Granted if the former cannot be complied with, and as the former would be attended to with much expence you may draw an order on John Pierce Esquire Comr. in my favor (the order being acknowledged befor a magistrate) and I will transmit the Certificate to you, or otherwise as you may direct —

The charges exhibitted by Ensign Andrew Finley, for Pay, cannot be admitted, as the is every probability of its being drawn for him by the P. Mr. of the regimt. who has not settled his accounts with the U. States —

The rations are totally inadmissable at this day pursuant to resolves of Congress. — The papers of Ensn. Finley I have retained until I have you directions where to send them, as well as your own — Any letters of a public nature which you may write me you will please to put under cover to John Pierce Esqr P. M. Genl. and as the Post is the most certain & expeditious conveyance I request you to forward them by him —

I am, Sir, with due respect You Hlb Servt. Jos. Howell Jr

Cap. Joseph L. Finley.