[Private] Baltimore 14 October 1790 O. H. Williams # 3582 Dear Sir, My Brother is now writing to you on the subject of the contract. His engagements, with Mr. Elliot, to the [undecipherable] rations will terminate on the last of December next; But he confides in your liberality, and the equity of certain circumstances, so far as to hope that their employment [strikethrough: certain respects] in the department of Quarter Master, will be continued — Notwithstanding certain misrepresentations, which will be explained, and disposed of, at a more [undecipherable] time, and which will astonish you, it cannot be denied that the quantities made by the contractors, the last summer, and fall, have been equal to any thing that could have been expected of them. The supplies procured, in consequence of those exertions, are equal at the least to the greatest requisitions made, and much greater than the commanding Officer of the troops expected — if he wished them — The encouragements and Solicitations of Gov. T. [undecipherable] stimulated the Contractors to measures which not only mortgaged the [strikethrough: expected] advances from the treasury, but involved their fortunes, and their credit to the extent; They have pledged themselves to the people who furnished the supplies, and made such advances to others who engaged in the business, unless they have an opportunity of continuing the business and of settling their accounts under the protection of the Contract contract made with you. I fear the consequences will be very deporant to yours — On the contrary, if they are continued, I have so much confidence in their capacity, attention and resources, that I would not hesitate to pledge myself and fortune thus closing the business with safety to themselves and satisfaction to the public. If it should be expedient to renew the contract for the Quarter Master department, I will vouch for them on their part and give satisfactory security for their performance. My solicitude for their welfare must excuse my giving you the trouble of this private letter. I am, Dear Sir, with great Esteem Your most Obedient Humble Servant O. H. Williams [Gen. Knox]