[Cochytardean, Stephen dt.21, ans d Sept 1797] [W^m Simmons — Esq^r. accounts to the War Dep^t. Philadelphia] [Rec^d 29^th no answer required W^m Simmons Oct^r 97] West Point Sep^t. 20 ^th 1797. S^r. As I have considered myself as invested with no other power but that existing in every other Individual, in certifying that one had made oaths before me I have not in the least been affected at the Information which you gave by authority, in your letter of the 11^th Inst^t. to me. — I will therefore Advise people runing in future to make oaths to claims of a pecuniary nature, to apply to the Magistrates which are contiguous to this Garrison I am Sir, Your ob^t. ^ew Step. Rochefontaine L^t. col. com^d. W^m Simmons — Esq^r.