[undecipherable] [undecipherable] August 2^d 1791 [undecipherable] [undecipherable] When I saw your last which [undecipherable] [undecipherable] that [undecipherable] of no person's appearing at [undecipherable] Washington on the part of the [undecipherable] to make provision for the transportation of the flour &c in the Army, I had been obliged to take it upon myself, and had recourse to M^r Ludlow who is an Agent, to provide the horses and carriages that would be necessary. M^r Ludlow has informed me since then the [undecipherable] the 2^d instant which I received to day that M^r Ernest had [undecipherable] you to purchase four hundred horses on account of the [undecipherable] for the same purpose, he having been directed by the [undecipherable] to transport the Supplies for the Army. M^r Ludlow informs me further that he has given you notice that a full Supply of horses are provided under the authority given to him by me, and that the arrangements he has made will be effectual. I have therefore to desire that you will suspend your purchases of horses untill you hear again from M^r Ernest whom [undecipherable] to me at Fort Washington on my return; otherwise the Contractors will be put to great and unnecessary expence, and the horses will remain upon your hands until they direct the manner they may be disposed of. I am, Sir,