Philadelphia 24^th August, 1798. Sir, You did not mention the rates at which you had contracted for the articles with Mr Starrs: fearfull that some mistake might happen on account of his proposition to make the Sword belts without buckles, I have had two made, the one with a buckle, the other without, by this mode I have discovered the cost of the buckle, and I find that those with buckles made of the best Leather, and in the best manner can be afforded at 62 Cts perhaps 60 and those without buckles at 50 Cents. I think the belts equal to any service, and that you may judge for yourself I send them to you. If the contract is not closed this information may be of use. You mention in your letter, that it will be proper to commence the buildings of the intended Laboratory. I never yet understood that the grounds on which they are to stand is agreed on, that any Estimate of their cost has been prepared, nor indeed any thing relating to them since I presented a plan of the Buildings I conclude the Purveyor may have received your directions for conducting the business, but I am totally ignorant in what state it is at present. I have ordered 245 pairs of Pistols to be delivered Jno. Nicholson for use of the Navy Department, they are valued at six dollars a pair, at which rate they will be paid for if not returned in kind. You mention in your letter that a supply of Cartridges must be forthwith procured. In this City, at this time it is impracticable, but I have been anxiously waiting the Return of Cap^t Elliott, who I understood was to begin his laboratory preparations with a supply of Musket Cartridges. I should be glad to be informed, when he may be expected to return from Cecil Furnace. I am Sir With respect & esteem Your most Ob^t Servant Samuel Hodgdon James M^cHenry Esq^r Secretary of War