Extract of a letter from Craig D.Q.M.G. to the Secy of war dated 26^th Aug 1796 —— "On making choice of Grounds on which to erect a Block House & Barracks &c at le Bœuf, I found the most suitable of the small squares reserved for Public use connected with two lots in the Town of Waterford, Vil. Lots N°. 37 & 38. These lots being offered for Sale at Auction by the Commissioners, to wit, Gen. Irwin & Geo. Willson I applied to them to reserve them for the use of the United States, but was told by them it was not in their Power to reserve any lots that were advertised, but advised me to purchase and said that they had no doubt of the legislature of Pennsylvania's ceding those lots together with the other Squares to the United States on proper application I have therefore to beg your attention to that business— These lots were purchased in my name, Viz. N°. 37. at 135 dollars & N°.38. at 150 dollars part of which to be paid in three Months. But I presume on application to the Governor the Conditions of Sale will be dispensed with till an application can be made to the Legislature."— Extract from same to same Dated 30^th December 1796. —— "My letter of the 26^th August last informed you of my having purchased at public auction of the Commissioners of the State of Pennsylvania two lots at LeBœuf which I considered essentially necessary for the United States to possess being adjoining and connected with the Grounds on which the public buildings are erected. I presume on your Application to the Legislature of Pennsylvania (which is now in Session) these lots will be ceded to the United States and I have presumed, Sir, that you will make the necessary application."— Copy of a letter from The Secretary of War to "Major Craig" dated Jan.^y 10. 1797. "In reply to that part of your letter of the 30^th December ult: respecting the two lots of Grounds purchased at Le Bœuf I have to observe, that it does not appear to me an object of such Magnitude, as to claim the attention of the