Philadelphia 13^th Feb^y 1799 Sir, I have received your letter of the 4^th instant— Have only time to say that I expect it will answer my present purpose; a more minute account may be expected under your Administration — you will see by the Law such annual Statements must be made to Congress by the Secretary of War — It has been the wish of the Secretary of War often expressed that I should view all the Public establishments, but under the present press of duty this is utterly impossible — the establishment with you I have always patronised, and I expect to find ample reasons to continue my patronage. The questions proposed by me did not originate in the most distant hint relative to the propriety of continuing the establishment, but from a desire that its utility may be more fully known and appreciated — I am making a report which may probably reach the eye of Congress, it will be favorable because it will state facts as they have arisen and because [underline: truth] will be its Pole Star — I am Sir Your Most Obed^t Servant Samuel Hodgdon Col^o Joseph Williams, Philadelphia 13^th Feb 1799 Sir, The enclosed letter from Captain Houdin was received this Morning, as it throws some light on M^r Hudsons business, and calls for further instructions, I submit it to your inspection. I am Sir Your Most Ob^t Serv^t Samuel Hodgdon James M^c Henry Esq.