[FREE] [Addressed to:] William Simmons Esquire, Accountant, War Department, War Philadelphia [Administrative notations: on Hiller. Salem / datd 7 Sept / Recd — 13 / ans — [undecipherable]] Salem 7 Sept 1797 — Sir, I duly recd yours of August 26. In answer permit me to observe, that I recd in July 1795. the sum of 250 D. from the Honorable M^r Gorham, for the purpose of mounting the Artillery at this port, of which sum, 93.75 has been expended. the Balance being $ 156.25, I am ready to refund it, to forward the Vouchers for the amount paid, when called upon for that purpose. I would also observe, that I have at different times, received 2773.84, on account of fortifications erecting in this port; of which sum $ 2633.70 has been expended. As there is no Appearance of any thing further being done at present, respecting the fortifications here, I should be happy to pay the Balance, being $ 140.14 to any person, authorized to receive it — I am, Sir, Your obedient Serv^t. Jos. Hiller Agent for fortifying the Port of Salem. — M^r Simmons Esquire