Harper ferry December 9^th 1799— Dear Sir— M^r Annelly has been absent from place during the months of March, and according to the Secretary's instructions to me, could not be paid for that time, though he alledges he was employed on public duty — All that is necessary to do adjustment of his account is that you would certify to me that he was doing public duty at Philadelphia — that done — for the Secretary directed me to suspend payment untill that Certificate should be exhibited — If therefore, you can do it, be pleased to oblige M^r Annelly & me by forwarding — At the close of the year I shall write to fully— [undecipherable] [undecipherable] [undecipherable] [undecipherable] [M Hodgdon Esquire]