The Secretary of War to Captain Sparks. War Office, February 10 1797. Sir, I have received your letter of the 5^th of January Ultimo, by Lieutenant Wright. My letter of the 27^th Ultimo (of which I enclose you a duplicate) explains the objects that you are at present to attend to, and suggests the principle that is to govern, in giving a final disposition to the Troops on the frontier. — Perhaps the Commissioners may agree with the Indians, that the posts may be established within their country, should it offer Sites better calculated for their, and the protection of the Tennessee Inhabitants. You were right to put a Guard over the public Stores; and I am obliged to you for your information relative to the disposition of the people, which it may be proper for you at all times, to study and be acquainted with. You will be pleased to observe, that the utmost attention is to be paid, to improve the Troops in military exercises and manœuvres, and that stated times must be appointed, for the performance of these duties. This is conceived so absolutely necessary, that indolence in the Officers to the object, will certainly incur the Presidents displeasure. I shall expect a copy of your regulations, and the orders which you may issue, on the occasion. I shall send a Surgeon's Mate to join you, as soon as possible. I have instructed Colonel Henley, to draw upon me, for the [underline: pay] due your Company, also Richards and Wades, up to the first of January Ultimo. I am Sir with respect Your ob^ed. Servant signed, James McHenry