Pittsburg 19. May 1797 Sir This moment your letter of the 18^th instant accompanied by the usual Packet of News papers & a letter addressed to the Q^M General is received. In order to satisfy you that I was authorised by the Q^M General to continue my Estimate on to the last of May, I have herewith enclosed you extracts of two of his letters on the subject of his new arrangement of the Q^M Department. Captain Heath has desired me to request you to direct M^r Harris to send forward a Trunk left in your Store addressed to him at this post. The Accountant informs me that it is not yet determined whether L^t Polhemus is not entitled to enlarged Pay and that should it be allowed him a Stoppage will be made in my favor. Of this Premium you will have information. Captain Edward D. Turner who commands at this post requests me to beg of you to purchase and send by post for him 12^yds Silver Persian Binding. I am with great respect Your obedient Servant, [signature] Samuel Hodgson esq^r Philadelphia