War Department, November 18 1799 Sir, It appearing that certain Fortifications and Barracks have been commenced at Loftus heights by direction of Brigadier General Wilkinson, and that progress has been made in procuring Bricks and other materials for their completion, you will, without delay instruct the Quarter Master General to furnish a distinct account which shall comprehend all the expenditures already incurred, or yet to be incurred for the said Fortifications and Barracks separate from his other accounts and pass to him the necessary Instructions relative to Vouchers and the form of keeping the said account. It will also be proper to make out a duplicate of said Instructions addressed to the deputy or Agent of the Quarter Master General charged with his business on the Mississippi, and to direct him to be governed by them till he receives Instructions regularly from his principal. I shall forward these by an Express from Knoxville as soon as prepared. I am Sir, Your ob^t. Servant James McHenry [The Accountant of the War Department.]