[M^r Sam^l Hodgdon Ap. 11. 1796] Captain William Eaton Commanding the Troops of the United States at Colerain on S. Marys River — Philadelphia April 12. 1796. Sir, In consequence of orders from the Secretary of War I have shipped a considerable quantity of provisions and several articles of Camp equipage for the use of the Troops under your command. Their particular use I conclude will be directed by the Secretary [strikethrough: [undecipherable]] and to his orders on the subject accordingly I refer you — with just observing that the measure of sending originated with myself, from a suspicion that the contract made at the Post would not secure a suitable and full supply of rations for your Men; in such a case you have a dernier resort — By the next vessel I shall send you a supply of Clothing and Arms and such other articles as may be known to be wanting for the health and comfort of the Troops — I am, Sir, your most Obd^t Servant Samuel Hodgdon Cap^t William Eaton