War Department March 21.1800 Sir, In answer to to your inquiry relative to the petition of Robinson Heartshorn and others praying for permission to export a certain quantity of gunpowder, I am informed by the Secretary of the Navy that he has caused the powder in question to be exa. mined with a view to a purchase and finds it unsuitable for the military service. I have the honor to be with greatest respect Your obed Servant James McHenry Hon John Lawrence In Senate Honble J. Lawrance Senate Chamber