Petersburg 7 November 1797. Sir In my letter of the 4^th I mentioned to you that it was probable the Iron work of seuged Gun carriages might be found in some of your ordnance Store houses and which might by sending it to this places be of very considerable advantage in mounting the Guns that you have advised me of commencing forward. One particular reason for my wishing this Iron Work to come forward is that the blacksmiths formerly employed here in public service and who were acquainted with such work, were exchanged by order of Gen. Wilkinson and a considerable part of their Tools sent to the several out posts. And Notwithstanding there are to be found at this Place artificers who can execute that business, but who will be much more affected by a Module than by a Plan. I have this day found it necessary to draw on you in favor of Mr John Power, the Bearer, for 1600 dollars at 5 days sight which be pleased to pay. The Bearer has business to transact at the Treasury being a particular friend of mine Make the liberty of requesting you to give him instructions as may enable him to perform his business with as little difficulty as possible. Sam, yea &c Samuel Hodgdon esq [undecipherable]