New York, March 28. 1798. Dear Sir, I send you the enclosed, unsealed. After perusing, be so kind as to seal it, and cover it with your friendship, and address it to Eli Elmer Esq^r. You will see how I am frequently exposed to heavy [strikethrough: postage of letters from officers] These letters, are generally put in the post office, Philadelphia, and sent to me. I lately received one from Major Haskell at Marietta, on public business, which cost me six shillings, and from the postage marks I am inclined to think the letter must have come from the War-Office — you will observe Elmer's letter to me carries similar marks — I hope you will excuse the liberty I have taken in the above request — My friendly wishes I tender to M^rs Flag: mer, and yourself, and am, Dear Sir, Sincerely Respectfully, Yours — [signature] Stagg William Simmons Esq^r