War Department 28 February 1797. Sir I have examined the claim you have referred for extra pay, as supernumerary aid to the late Commander in Chief, and find, that the duties which the Commander had to perform, including the almost constant calls upon him by some one or other of the Indian Nations, down to the time of decease, required additional aids, and that for this it becomes a proper charge against the United States; but inasmuch as the appropriations for the military department have been exhausted, and it has not been included in the estimate render- ed from this department, it may be advisable to remove any doubts that might be raised on the subject or have it referred to Congress. I am, Sir respectfully, Your obedt. Serv: James McHenry Capain Thomas Lewis 5 Cong. 1 sess. Thomas Lewis [illegible] [illegible 4 or 5 words] Thos Lewis ’ s papers 5 Con 1 Sess