Philadelphia 31st August 1798 Sir, Your letter of the 24th instant is before me. The sickness continues, 45 deaths are reported within the last 24 hours. The City is nearly deserted, myself and family, remain and all at present perfectly well The several drafts you mention shall meet due honour I have said every thing I could to induce the Secretary of War to make payment on your claim which he as well as all others admits to be just but hitherto without effect. I will try again & the moment I am able will discharge your debt to Forrest You 204 You say not a word about the Ship Carpenters, their families are applying for the usual advance & I know not how to act keep me informed in this business. Fenno’s papers shall come as you request. adieu Your most Obt Servant Samuel Hodgdon Issac Craig