To M^r James Byers jun^r Sir, War office, March 19^th 1796 In answer to your letter of the 30^th January ultimo, I have to refer you for an explanation of the instructions given you by the late Secretary of war, as far as respect the advance to be laid on the goods destined for the Indian trade, to the Purveyor's letter of the 10^th March, copy of which I enclose. Following the ideas therein mentioned, you are to add only 33⅓ to the cost of the goods, which is supposed equal to expense of transportation, your salary and all other charges. Should you find it, however, insufficient to these objects, you will increase it till it covers them, giving due information thereof. I am Sir &c (Signed) James McHenry To M^r Edward Price Sir, War office, April 12^th, 1796. I have renewed your letter of the 24^th of February ultimo. Your remarks on the mode that has been prescribed for carrying on the Indian trade with the public goods appear to me judicious and pertinent. The difficulties of disposing them without intermediary white traders had occurred, but they were not deemed insurmountable. It was, at least hoped that the Indians might be gradually induced to a freer intercourse and more intimate friendship, by becoming generally the sellers of their own peltry and buyers of the articles they wanted in return. As the subject is important, you will be pleased to give to it further attention, and to communicate the result of your observations & reflections. In the mean while, it may be expedient to give such small credits to the traders who may be recommended to you by M^r Seagrove, or those in whom you can confide, as may prevent present inconveniences, til such time as a permanent arrangement can be taken in the premise. The Sloop William, which carries supplies for the troops, and stores for the commissioners to hold the treaty with the creeks, is ordered to return as soon as you can ship the peltry and skins you may have on hand; on which subject you will receive particular instructions from M^r Francis. I am Sir &c (Signed) James McHenry