New York, July 26^th, 1786. Dear Sir, Your favor of the 16^th instant, with the account of M^r Stafford was duly received. An application to M^r Otterall to have M^r Stafford's accounts settled. I am informed by him it is absolutely necessary that a Certificate should be given by M^r Martin (whom he served with) specifying the time of M^r Stafford's service and the monies (if any) paid him on account of such service — this Certificate being procured I have not a doubt but I shall be enabled to have the accounts [strikethrough: settled] — you will please to inform M^r Stafford of the necessity of obtaining this Certificate. Yours & Colonel A. Proctor. Jos. Howell j^r