[Address panel: William Simmons Esqr / [undecipherable] for the [undecipherable] / [undecipherable] Philadelphia] [Marginal notation: undecipherable] Fort Pickering 17^th August 1796 My good friend I am ordered to this post on a very disagreeable duty viz the Trial of Captain Paton on sundry charges. Since my return to Fort St [undecipherable] I have been most of the time on Court Martials, but I expect this business is nearly over and that I shall once more live in peace at my own post. The fort at Point Peter called Fort Washington which was built at last Summer is not yet garrisoned it completely commands the mouth of the river St. Marys and I am daily in expectation of being ordered to that post, as Mr. Hawkins one of the Commissioners for treating with the Creeks informed me he should Speak to the Secretary of War on the Subject— The friends of Government in this country are Satisfied with the late treaty with the Creeks, but the [undecipherable] who compose the majority are deep [undecipherable: probable reading "displeased"] with it— Some have thrown out threats that they would cross the line and establish Settlements— It is a measure which may be Attempted, but I am convinced government [undecipherable] to be carried into execution— There are Several Indians there at present all peaceably disposed— Col. Gaither gave me a certificate of having done the duty of Legion [undecipherable]. [undecipherable] has inclosed it and the account to you— [Undecipherable] things passing in this country worth your notice I shall always give you the earliest [undecipherable] Please give my respects to your good Mother, Mrs [undecipherable], M^c[undecipherable] and the gentlemen [undecipherable] your office I am very good friend With respects & Esteem [Undecipherable] William Simmons Esqr [undecipherable signature]