Pittsburg January 18^th 1799 Sir, On the 16^th Inst. Gen Andrew Clips accompanied by M^r Whitmore Knaggs on their way to Sandusky arrived here. M^r Knaggs called and informed me that all the money furnished him and the Indians for the purpose of defraying the Expences of this Journey was expended and that they were under the Necessity of applying to me — particularly as it was then impossible to cross the River — which continued impassable untill Yesterday I therefore furnished them with the Quarters — The Expence of which together with the Horse keeping amounts to 73 ⁸⁶/₁₀₀ dollars. M^r Knaggs has agreeable to your Order of the 29^th & 31^st Ult^o been furnished with Three Rifles Powder & Lead &^c & one Packhorse complete together with Forage & Provision. The Detachment under the command of Capt Edward Miller embarked Yesterday & set off for Fort Washington on Board five flat bottommed Boats. the late favourable Weather has enabled me to load two large Boats with Cloathing and other Stores for Natchez. Ensign Cook having permission from Capt Miller has taken charge of those Boats — M^r Cook says he has applied for leave to resign but should that not be granted he wishes to continue under the Orders of the General at Natchez. I am &c &c Hon^ble James McHenry Secretary of War Philadelphia