[Copy.] War Department February 20 1799. Sir, William Simmons the Accountant for the Department of War, has stated to me in a letter of this date, that this morning while in the execution of the duties of his Office he was most grossly insulted by you, and requested that you be immediately arrested subject to his bringing forward, the proper charges against you, which he says he will do, as soon as he can collect a statement of the allegations in writing, from the several persons, who were present at the time the abuse was offered to him. I shall refer this complaint together with such charges, as may be exhibited by the Accountant, to Major General Hamilton, to take such order thereon as to him may appear proper; and until his pleasure is known, you will continue in the City of Philadelphia, and consider yourself in arrest. I am Sir, Your ob^t. Servant, signed, James McHenry. Capt. Samuel Vance 3^d U.S. Reg^t.