War Office Aug^t 2^d 1786. Sir I received your several favors of the 5^th & 12^th Ultimo from Carlisle and Fort Pitt. I am much obliged by your observations on the public buildings and stores at Carlisle. I am really surprized at the information communicated by Major Wyllys respecting the boats which were lost at Fort McIntosh on the 24^th of January last. — I have enclosed a certificate to Colonel Harmar signed by a corporal, L^t Pratt Q.M. and Capt Hamtramck, of a contrary nature. I have given Colonel Harmar directions to enquire rigidly and minutely into that affair and transmit the result. I shall be happy and obliged by receiving your observations from time to time of every matter relative to the oeconomy and discipline of the troops. I have given Colonel Harmar decisive orders not to permit a hired team to remain in Service if it be possible that the troops could exist without them. We are expecting with anxiety, the result of the return of the Messengers sent by Captain Hutchins. We have no news, a full representation of 12 States in Congress. I am Sir with respect & esteem Your very Humble Servan^t Knox Major North.