Monday 29 may 1797 Sir I am detapointed that the young gentleman has not Called on me Since I Saw him — it will prolong the befonets. I wish to know what time to morrow you will have the liesure to Receive me — I have heard that Col. Loufard will recommend to you a french gentleman the name of be[undecipherable: l- Otis]. I am well aquainted with him — he pottesses many maps information, and instruction — that it is necessary to pottesses. I have my pottession 1200 fusils — and the three tents — to morrow I will have the honnour to Call on you — and if you desire — after I See you — we will have the befonets — finishe — what time will you See me — believe me with respect yours [undecipherable: J. S. Hilaire] [Col. M^c henry Secretary at War [underline: philadelphia] rec^d 3^d day 1797]