Philad^a 15^th October 1798 I have received your letter covering One to you from the Secretary of the Treasury with information of the purchase of a Quantity of Powder in Charleston — It is I find in Boxes of an unsuitable size and probably in a rusty condition as were those purchased in New York — Would it not be best to order suitable Casks to be made and shift the whole immediately — I shall now order the quantity of Powder directed in your letter of the 5^th ultimo to be sent to Beaufort, but I shall prefer delivering it in Barrels instead of Boxes if time would permit — I am Respectfully Your most Obed^t Serv^t Samuel Hodgdon James McHenry Esq^r Secretary of War Philad^a 15^th October 1798. I have received yours of the 15 instant. The enclosed [undecipherable] will be found a full and satisfactory compliance with its contents — You mention four Boxes of Glass my requisition was for six boxes — As to transportation at command will thank you for information when it is probably the articles inserted in the Pittsburgh indent will be ready With sentiments of esteem Your most Obed^t Serv^t Samuel Hodgdon Tench Francis Esq^r