Philad^a 21. February 1799. Sir, The trunks contents unknown, with some small articles belonging to your Son who died here, have been deposited with me, without any instructions how to dispose of them. The rules and regulations of War, provides that effects thus circumstanced shall be made and remain subject to any Debts that may be unsatisfied at the time of the decease of the Officer; and also, determines the mode of their disposal — In the case of Captain Mitchell I trust these rules do not apply as I have reason to believe, no Debts will appear against him — In this belief I make this communication and shall be governed by such order, as you may please to give relative to the articles in my care. — Sam Sir Stephen M^it Mitchell E^sq Your Most Obed^t Serv^t. Connecticut Samuel Hodgdon Philadelphia 23^d Feb^y 1799. Sir, Cartouch Boxes in form and kind of that received from London may be contracted for in this City at a rate not exceeding one dollar and one third, the materials and workmanship to be of the best kind — If bayonet belts and frogs is added the price will be one Dollar and a half — of cross belts with buckle and tips, are preferred the price will be two dollars — These last though expensive have a martial appearance, and make a great addition to the Soldier, — If you request it, I will have a Box of each kind made to serve as pattern, — Sam Sir James M^cHenry E^sq Y^r Mo. Ob. Serv^t Secretary of War. Samuel Hodgdon.