Dear Sir— If no better opportunity is likely to be soon offered, be pleased to send by the Bearer the quantity & sizes of files specified in the enclosed in—voice — If the transportation, via Baltimore, be ready, perhaps it would be the most oeconomical mode — But of this you are the best Judge — Be pleased to inform me whether any steps have been taken to forward more good Iron, and when it may be expected — I have not heard a word of the insurrection in Pennryl^a before yesterday — I hope a few of the ringleaders may be treated according to the merits of their Conduct — I am, Dear Sir, your most Obed^t Ser^vt John McKey [let the transportation be settled according to your usual mode] Harpers ferry March 21 '99— Samuel Hodgdon Esq^r [docket: John McKey / Harpers ferry / [undecipherable] 1799] [address: Samuel Hodgdon Esquire / Philadelphia]