[Copy of a letter from the Secy of War to Colo Rochefontaine dated 29^th May 1797 — directing the Mo. adopted to convey dispatches from West Point to Peek Kill & from thence back and the sum to be allowed therefor —] War Office, May 29^th 1797 Sir. I have now before me your letter of the 21^st of April alluding on the subject of extra compensation, paid by you, to a soldier of the garrison, for conveying the public letters and dispatches, to and from the Post Office at Peekskill. I should have given you my opinion on the propriety of this charge before this time, but deferred it, until I could ascertain, in writing, from the Post Master, at what rate he would undertake to perform the same service — his answer has been received. The result is, that he cannot get it done under once a week 12/— twice a week W/ three times W/ and free postage— This being the case it is evident that your arrangement of half a dollar a trip, is the most œconomical, and consequently ought to be adopted. I have therefore admitted the account as stated. And, in order that this necessary duty may be brought into a regular train of execution, you will be pleased to consider this letter as an authority for you to continue the present mode of conveyance of public dispatches, from West Point to Peekskill, and back again, and the mode of payments to be made as heretofore. I am Sir. respectfully, Your Obedient Serv^t James McHenry Colonel Rochefontaine [True Copy] [signature] Stagg Jun^r