Philadelphia, 22 May, 1799 Sir, On my return from New York, where I have spent two Weeks on the business of the public, I peruse your letter of the 3^d ultime. I have made enquiry and find that 1650 lbs Hoop, and 560 lbs. Rod Iron amounting to your indent was sent to Col. Stevens in New York on the 30^th ultime, with orders to forward it immediately — I hope and trust you have received it — The remainder is in Store and shall forward it with as convenient dispatch — In answer to your Query relative to the return of Stores, I observe that the receipts of deliveries since the last issue is not that is necessary for my purpose. — The Musket Stocks injuned by the fire or otherwise, should be [undecipherable: probable reading "separated"] from the Good Stores and added to the damages; they will certainly answer for Splices & Pistol Stocks, and may as occasion requires be used accordingly — I will send you a supply of Musket Stocks by the first convenient conveyance — Am happy to find your Manufactory progressing — If the Horse purchased for the Superintendent proves vicious, and unfit for the service, he may be sold for the most he will bring, and another purchased to supply his place — Or you may pursue the process as you mention, to the purchase of a yoke of Oxen, and let the experiment be made to determine the economy of this mode of doing the hauling at the post — Pursue the business as you propose and for so doing this shall be your warrant, as I have consulted the Secretary of War, and he approves of the measure — I am, Sir, your most obedient Servant — Samuel Hodgdon — To Joseph Williams, Springfield —