[William Simmons Esq^r Accountant War Department Philadelphia] [acco 5, 16 April 1800 Jn. Miller No 2] N^o 17. Philad^a April 16^th 1800 William Simmons Esq^r Sir, In consequence of the indisposition of M^r Francis the Surveyor the Secretary of War has requested in some instances the Quarter Master General to make purchases on Account the United States and at other times he has required me to assist in my private capacity — I therefore have now the honor of sending you herewith an abstract and account of the purchases made in the name of John Wilkins P. Q. M. Gen^l Amounting to thirteen hundred and Eighteen Dollars and ninety four Cents. These accounts have been kept seperate and distinct from those of the Department and as the purchases have been made out of the monies belonging thereto. I request that you will be pleased to report on them as speedily as possible in order that a Warrant may issue to refund there Advances — I also inclose you an Abstract of Purchases made by myself for the Armoury at Harpers Ferry Amounting to six hundred and ninety three Dollars and fifty five Cents for which being in advance you will also please report on, that a Warrant may issue in my favor for the amount — The orders of the Secretary accompany the purchases, and as I believe they are all correct hope there will be little trouble occasioned to you in these transactions — I am Sir, With great respects Your Very Ob^t H^ble Ser^vt [undecipherable: J.d. Miller]