you conceive it to be reasonable, as also the Accounts of M^cClallen after they attest to their amounts, and the commandant approves of the charges pursuing thereto all such charges the utmost frugality ought to be observed those men have it in their power to make large accounts ought therefore to be carefully examined before pay^t made. I am in doubt whether an Officer or Soldier is entitled by law to the reward for apprehending a deserter — the Congress mentions that after the most diligent Search has been made by order of the Commanding Officer — then be proper to advertize the deserter, and offer a Ten Dollars for apprehending him. the Officer in my Opinion as in the line of his duty when on that kind, receives his Pay as such; and any exp^s may accrue in pursuit of deserters. All the taking I doubt that they are entitled to the reward: altho^gh in several instances it has been allowed. — I am Sir y^rs &c — William Sim^s Department of War Accountants Office March 23 M^r William Cox Baltimore Maryland Sir Your letter of the 19^th I have received; and agreeably thereto I enclose a copy of your Account Current as Settled in this office the 22^d of January 1796. — I am Sir y^rs &c William Sim^s