War department December 12. 1799 Sir I enclose you a [strikethrough: last Nov] copy of a letter to John Woodward dated 5. November 1798. and request that you will furnish — him with the forms of keeping the accounts therein mentioned The Secretary wishes it to be understood that whenever monies are advanced to any Agent not before instructed as to the forms of his accounts and vouchers, that the necessary information on these points be immediately furnished to him. — I am Sir your obed. Servants James McHenry William Simmons Esq^r [Docket on verso: rec'd. in letter from the Sec. of War Dec. 12^th 1799 —] [encl. Dec. 12, 1799, McHenry] War department 5. November 1798. Sir, Several Gun carriages will be wanted for the Guns which are to be mounted for the defence of the Town and harbour of New London — I therefore request that you will enquire of Captain Wadsworth the number and description of Carriages wanting and contract with some proper person to have them completed as soon as possible. You will be particularly careful to stipulate in your Contracts for well — seasoned timber and strong Iron work. In making such repairs to the works as Captain Wadsworth shall direct, you will engage such a number of labourers as will be able to complete the work expeditiously and money will be furnished for the payment. In discharging the accounts of the Workmen and making disbursements as well as in keeping and settling your accounts you will observe such forms as may be prescribed to you by the Accountant of this department. — You will inform me as soon as possible of the weekly sums it is probable you will have occasion for as well for this as the other matters you are charged with — I am Sir Your able Servants signed James McHenry M^r John Woodward A true Copy N. Jones