Philadelphia 25 Nov^r 1795 Sir The day before the unhappy Doctor Watrous died a quantity of Medicine suited to the country where he was going was sent off, to Pittsburgh at the Public expence, as I was acquainted with his fate, I wrote by Post and detained them in the hands of Major Craig, and they are now under his care. The Doctors Brother has come forward to settle his affairs, and has gone with a letter from me to Pittsburgh to dispose of the Medicine. To day I received a letter from him and another from Major Craig both proposing to have the Medicine purchased for the Army, it being of the kinds now wanted, and so far safely on its way. The Medicines were purchased by the Doctor with Cash of Doctor Jackson in this City who is able to give full information which will insure against imposition should it be attempted. The combined reasons of its being immediately wanted, its being of kinds suited to the climate and complaints of the Country, and the transportation being already paid, by the State, I should expect are sufficient to warrant the purchase — As the Brother is waiting until he hears whether the United States will take the Medicine, I request your direction on the Subject. He returns here where payment may be made if the purchase is ordered I am Sir Very Respectfully Your most Obedient Servant Samuel Hodgdon James M^cHenry E^sq. Secretary of War.