[Letter from the Secretary at War 19^th July 1788] War Office, July 19^th 1788. Sir, It was with extreme pain I read a letter from Major Allen informing me of his having delivered out a number of articles of military stores on the written application of a number of Gentlemen of Providence. I have written to him, and I now make the request to you, that you would both exert yourselves to have every article of the said stores returned, or others of equal value. I have no authority to issue a single article but according to the appropriations of Congress. I Shall be at Providence, probably in ten days from this date, when I hope to learn that the Gentlemen who influenced Major Allen to make the issue have fully complied with their proposals and to replace the articles in all respects. I flatter myself that it is unnecessary to give you any instructions against issuing any articles to any person whatever, unless by my orders, or the orders [strikethrough: from] of — the Congress. I am Sir. Your most obedient & very humble Serv: H Knox Colonel Jeremiah Olney,