Pittsburg 24 Feb. 1797 Sir Captain Edward D. Turner set off on the 19. for Fort Washington, and the letter addressed to him from the War Office that came to hand this day shall go forward in charge of Ensign Smith who is to set off for Fort Washington this Evening. And by the same boat which carries Ensign Smith the Goods intended for the Chickasaw In=dians are sent addressed to the Q. Master at that post, who I presume has instructions to dispose of them. Captain Bipsell attributes the general Unhealthy state of the Garrison of Presque isle during the latter part of the summer partly to their being ill accommodated with Quarters viz. small huts built on their first taking possession of that Post. He has therefore requested me to endeavour to obtain Instructions from you to erect Brick buildings sufficient to accomodate the Garrison. In consequence of which I have taken the liberty of submitting to you the enclosed Plan of a Building 92 feet long by 18 feet two Stories high to contain 12 rooms supposed sufficient to accommodate each 8 men. An Estimate of the Expence is also enclosed — this is of considerable importance to know immediately whether I am to proceed with this building or to defer it. I am Sir your ob. h. [servant?] Hon. James McHenry Sec^y of War