the Accounts we not adjusted by the Accountant, but his opinion probably is that it had better be settled in & charged immediately with the disbursements of the Quarter Master General. But I see no reason for this, the money drawn by Col: Stevens is not though this Quarter Master General, nor chargeable to him. of course the settlement should be made by the Accountant, and the amount, be charged on the Appropriation for the Quarter Master Department. I am Sir your mo: ob: Servant, Pat. M^cHenry Esquire Samuel Hodgdon Philadelphia 22^d January 1799 Sir There is in the Public Store 1400 Knapsacks, which are strapped but not painted. this is more than half the number in Store. Will it not be best to have them painted immediately, & I expect heavy orders for that Article, and until painted they are useless. I have purchased the several Articles returned for by M^r Stanley and shall forward them immediately. M'Annally will be ready to go to his charge tomorrow, before he leaves this City he wishes to receive his Warrant of appointment. The Muskets I mentioned to you are wanting for repairs, I shall be able shortly to form an estimate of their expence. I am Sir your most ob: Servant, Samuel Hodgdon James M^cHenry Esq^r Secretary of War