[105 28 Dec 1796] Extract from a letter to the Act. dated 28 Dec^r 1797. To The President of the U. S has maturely considered the questions relative to your official powers and duties &c — and has directed me to communicate for your government his decisions thereon. 4 The Sec. of war under such restrictions as are prescribed by the President of the U. S. and understood by the said Secretary is authorised to determine the rules of compensation and allowance for services of an incedental nature, where no rule has been established by Congress, and for expenditures of such a nature as are not to be made public. The President will from time to time direct certificates to be made, which are to serve in lieu of the vouchers ordinarily required in the settlements of accounts."