War Department November 17 1791 Sir, I have received your letter of the 10th instant. I agree with you in the probability of the recruits who are yet to march from this city and the Eastward, being unable to descend the Ohio this year, as they will not arrive at Fort Pitt until about Christmas. You will therefore provide for their quarters at Pittsburg during the winter provided they shall not be able to descend the Ohio. They will amount to about 150 non commission and privates, or two companies. I have directed the paymaster to transmit you the sum of one thousand dollars for public service, for which you will be held accoutable.
But in future you must not request any any money but upon a specific estimate presented for that purpose.
I have written to Major Trescott to have Captain Haskells company and Captain Cushings company prepared to descend the Ohio for Fort Washington; by the post. All sotres at Pittsburg intended for the troops below, must be in readiness to be forwarded under this escort.
I shall have no objection to your coming to this City in the winter, provided it be after the arrangements of quarters, fuel, straw &c are secured for the troops who may be detained at Pittsburg, and that you shall have put the affairs in such train as the public service may not suffer by your absence.
I am Sir Your humble servant H Knox Major Isaac Craig