Fort Norfolk 5^th Jan^y 1799. Sir In July last, or first of August I deposited with you a return signed by the Sec^ty of War for ninety three suits of Infantry clothing: by examining your Books you will find to complete the suits Eighty three privates Vests still remain to be forwarded; this circumstance will be well recollected by my Friend M^r Harris, who stated to me he would Ship the Vests [strikethrough: to] to my address at Fort Norfolk, as soon as possible— At that time there were none in Store, and the Fever taken place in the City immediately afterwards, I suppose is the cause that prevented his complying with his promise — Permit me to request the favor of you to forward the [strikethrough: deff] deficiency of Vests, as soon as convenient, as my men suffers materially in their appearance for the want of them. Accept my best respects — I have the Honor to be with esteem Your most ob^t Serv^t Ferdinands Claiborne Sam^l. Hodgdon Esq^r Lieut. 1^st Reg^t Inf^y.. [Address panel: Samuel Hodgdon Esq / Quarter [Master] General Army United States / Philadelphia] [Docket, upper left: 22] [Endorsement, bottom right: Claiborne / [undecipherable] / [undecipherable]] [Stamp: Received / from / Nov. 24. 1894. / State Dep't. / B.P.O 401810.]