D. Sir Baltimore 27^th June 1788. Inclosed is the contract Signed and Sealed on the part of Elliott and Williams, by Col. Sam^d Smith and myself their legal Attorneys in this State. As the Gentlemen are both gone to the Westward, and are unacquainted with this engagement, it is proper to premise that they are not to be Subject to any charge, loss, or damages, on account of this contract until, after they shall be Officially informed thereof by the Secretary at War. The mode of payment is not expressed in the Writing but we rely that it will be without delay after passing Accounts agreeable to contracts I am Sir, Y^r Obedient & most H^ble Servant, Gen^l Knox Sec^y at War O. H. Williams [To Elliott & Williams / B. June 1788] Balt^o 15^th 1788 Day June[s] Not a line by the post. — Busy — very busy, I suppose, in parcelling Packing &^c &^c &^c — Well, consider the inclosed papers particularly that relating to the quarter Masters Office and let me have your decision — I think myself that there ought to be some obligation on the part of the Secretary at War to pay when Acc^ts are settled, But if you agree to accept leave that point to be determined here — Appearances are dark just now — Save yourselves if you can — I have great confidence in your abilities and and [contract for 2 M^r Stores / List of Posts / Ltre from Sec^y at War / c Mess^rs Elliott & Williams] With Esteem and affection (Yes) O. H. Williams