Secretary at War March 19. 1794 XXX War department March 19. 1794 Sir Your favors of the 3 and 6 instant have been received as the bill for the fortification of the ports has passed, immediate measures will be taken for mounting such heavy cannon as may be at Norfolk and which are of sufficient goodness - some person as an Engineer will also be sent for the purpose of deciding upon the spots where the batteries ought to be erected (The interruptions and injuries to our trade in the West Indies of the highest nature and now engage the most serious attention of Congress what shape the business will assume is not decided, but all classes seem to think that every preparation for war ought to be made in order to speak in a dignified tone to the offending power suitable to the occasion.
The demands relative to the Armoruers was unknown to me until you mentioned them - Every just arrangement is made for furnishing the Master Armourer with Money This being off the post road has occasioned some derangement which will not probably occur again - Contingent claims such as was incurred at Norfolk will some times arise arise and no remedy being at hand payments may be delayed - but this is not the case to my knowledge for any regular authorized expences after such are adjusted by the accounting officers I have given instructions to the Accountant to adjust with all possible dispatch the accounts brought by Major Prior - as soon as the balance shall be ascertained for which the United States are responsible application will be made for the same to the Treasury – I have the honor to be with great respect Your obed. Servant H Knox Secy of War His Excellency Governor Lee