Accountants Office. May 28. 1796— The Secretary of War— Sir The enclosed acc^t of Capt H De Butts for Compensation, as Secretary, to Gen^l Waynes Comm^r for treating with the Western Indians from 4^th April 94, to 20 Sept 95 amounts to the sum of One thousand and Seventy Dollars — I do not conceive myself at liberty to allow— the Charge not being Authorized by law— Capt De Butts for the same periods has been receiving pay and other emoluments as a Capt in the Service of the United States— together with his additional pay as an Aid de Camp to Gen^l Wayne— it has not been usual to allow an Officer in the Service of the United States pay in two capacities or for extra Services other than what is pointed out by Law— I am therefore of opinion that any claims of that Nature should be submitted to Congress for allowance, who alone are competent to direct what sum shall be paid— Gen^l Wayne has also presented an account for Extra Services and Expences amounting to eight thousand Dollars and upwards which in my opinion should pursue the same course— I am &c William Simmons—