Extract of a letter to the Secretary of the Treasury dated 26th Sept 1790 Extract of a letter from Samuel Hodgson to the Secretary of the Treasury dated 26th.Sept.1790 But if I understand the system it requires that the articles purchased, shall be delivered and in the keeping of some public officer. If not wanted, why is the article purchased, who so proper to have the charge of it as an [words underlined: accountable, known ] and [word underlined: established Officer. I do not mean to insinuate that Messrs.
Wheeler & Miller, are either unable or unwilling to comply with their engagement. my observations are general, and founded on th System prosecuting for keeping their accounts. The stores I think ought not to be deposited in any place or under charge of any person not officially employed. My reasons for this opinion are many: in case of embezlement who is to be the looser, or in case of fire what security have we we for the necessary care to preserve, or exertion to save the effects if lost, in either way, the public would be the looser, with a [underlined word: delicate ] right however to enquire into the circumstances, for the accountableness sanctioned by the War Department, could extend no further?