T. D. February 3^d 1797 It appears by several letters lately received from Colonel Carrington, that the commanding Officer of Fort Norfolk in Virginia, insists upon the supplies, being issued to the Troops at the Fort, inplace of receiving them at the Town as heretofore — and that in consequence thereof, a Contract cannot be obtained for the provisions, unless the united States consent to allow two or three Cents p^r Ration for this extraordinary trouble. I will thank you therefore to inform me, whether the delivery of the supplies at the Fort, is of importance as to justify the additional expense — for your information on this subject, therewith transmit to you sundry documents relative thereto, which after perusal you will be pleased to return to this office. I am very respectfully Sir Your most obed^t Serv^t The Secretary at War [February 3^d 1797 The Secretary of War Received]