[On public service — 20] [Joseph Howell Jr Esqr. Accountant for the United States Philadelphia] [528] [561] [rec'd [undecipherable] Aug^t [undecipherable]] Pittsburg 27^th July 1792 Dear Sir I received one hundred & fifty eight dollars the other day by the hands of Mr Oliver Ormsby, on account of the charges I sent by him against the United States, I rather think the whole of my accounts was not allowed as the sum was not as large as I expected, but as part of my papers are at Fort Franklin, I cannot determine and as I expect soon to be ordered from this place, I will thank you to let me know how the matter stands — Not long since I sent a charge against the United States, to the Hon. the Secretary of war, for my extra services & expences in the Indian department — This was sent in consequence of my first requesting him to make some allowance in the Indian department, & his advising me in his letter dated the 10^th May last in these words. "Make out an account of your extra services & expences in the Indian department, certifying upon honour the truth thereof, & transmit to me" I suppose the account is lodged in your office before this — I understand General Knox has said I am to have an allowance, but that he had not then determined in what manner, I wish the allowance may be sent on as soon as possible, as I have many reasons soon to expect to be ordered down the river — I hope to have the pleasure of seeing you next fall, as I think four years actual service will intitle me to a furlough — I am Dear Sir your friend, Most obedient & very humble Servant — [undecipherable] [Joseph Howell Jun^r Esqr.] [Recr'ments Amt — 80 Audt. Contingences — 78.34 158.34.]