Fort Johnston February the 27^th 1796 Sir I have at length obtained an answer from Governor Vanderhorst. Respecting the two Brass Field pieces, you gave me an order for — which is as follows — Viz: That he does not think he is authorised to Disarm the Militia (who are in possession of the Brass Ordnance) at the present crisis; neither does he know — what right you have for giving me the Order you have done — he also says there is no Brass Field Pieces in the Arsnol Store house here — nor can he tel what Ordnance belongs to this State — or the United States as they have both been blended together for many years pastes from this answer — you will be acquainted with the Situation I am in — and you will best Judge — whether it is in my power to fulfil my duty — in training the Soldiers under my Command — without haveing proper Cannon. and their Necessary Apparatus — I shall be obliged by your answer and determination — as I am much in want of the field pieces — I am with much esteem and respect your most Obedient and very Humbl^e Serv^t. Michael Kalteisen Capⁿ. A. & E. Major Samuel Hodgedon Superintendant of Military Stores [Letter from Capⁿ Kalteisen 27 Feb^y 96 Re^d 09 March]