[David Hale rec'd [undecipherable] Ans. [undecipherable]] William Simmons Esq Accountant War Department Philadelphia West Point Jany. 29^th 1796 Sir, Since I had the honor to transmit you a statement of my recruiting account up to Nov 17^th 1795 I have engaged seven recruits- Viz- four in Newport & three at this post- They have all joined the regiment and after having been mustered, I propose to pay them their full bounties- This will occasion me to submit another statement, & will lessen the balance of money with which I am charged on your books.- I would beg leave to suggest one query & to request a reply thereto- Whether, in case of a deserter apprehended by private men of the corps, I am intitled to pay the premium of 10 Dollars allowed by the articles of war, & whether if I pay it, the amount will be passed to my credit on settling my account.- I am with respect, William Simmons Esq^r Sir your very obedient servant D. Hale Lt. [undecipherable]