Philadelphia 6^th December 1798 Sir You mention in your letter of the 19^th Ultimo, that the Muskets delivered to the Secretary of War and my orders to serve as Models or Patterns to existing Contracts differ from those in the hands of Captain Amos for the same purpose In my letter of the 5^th September giving notice of the probable call for such Muskets, I was as minute and particular as possible in describing the Muskets that I meant to have delivered. I am sorry to find after this, that imperfect ones, and those said to be less valuable than the Pattern Muskets at Springfield have been delivered— to remedy this mistake I wish you to write to the persons who have received the Muskets and point to them the defects that they may be remedied— it should be known universally that no inferior Musket will be received on inspection I am Sir Your Most Obedient Servant Colonel Joseph Williams Samuel Hodgdon P.S. The nut which holds the Bayonet should be on the upper part or face of the Barrel— and the upper Ramrod pipe is usually a little bell'd for the more convenient returning the Ramrod— The Locks must be extremely deficient if they are less valuable by two Dollars than those of Mr Ames's Pattern for the best Locks cost but two Dollars and a third S H Sir, Philadelphia 7^th December, 1798 This morning I received your favor of the 30^th Ultimo. I am glad to find you are coming to our City, rest assured of a hearty welcome from me, and every assistance I am able to afford in procuring the Stores for the Army. I will subscribe for the paper and order the direction as you request— Your draft shall duly meet honor. Congress have made a House, the President speaks to them to morrow. the great Council of arrangements for the Army have nearly finished their business and will of course break up in a few Days. adieu With Sentiments of Esteem I am Sir Y^r Mo. Ob. Serv^t Col. Jn^o Wilkins, D.U.4 Samuel Hodgdon