[Two texts written on the page, one overlaying the other] [First the faint writing:] The time when the mother mentioned Soldier died [?] be requesite - before the pay can be ascertained by referring to his mothers letter it will probably [??] the Information. [Second the darker writing:] Honorable James McHenry Secretary at War Philadelphia Philadelphia 27.th Feb.ry 1796 Sir I have been requeste to make enquirey at the War Office respecting a Soldier lately in the western Army in the Company of Capt. Cass - now decease, by the name of John Stanal Gilman. His Mother lives in my Neighbourhood in New Hamp- and desires to be informed, whither any arrears of pay of clothing, were due to him, at the time he deceased; and if any how much _ also the necessary steps to enable her to draw the said Arrears Your kind attention to the [the above the scriptline with a insertion sign below] subject, and any infromation in you power to furnish me with respect to it, will obliege a poor Woman. With sentiments of esteem and respect, I have the hon.r to be [be above the scriptline with a insertion sign below]Sir your very hum.ble Serv.t Abiel Foster

Hon.ble The Secretary at War