War Department The Accountant of the War Office War Department May 17, 1800 James McHenry No. 18 Directory as to the account of Thomas Y. Howe 2d Lt and Secy to Major General Hamilton referring it to the decision of the proper officer War Department May 17th 1800 Sir, I have received two letters from you dated the 21st March last and 5th instant, requesting my decision, relative to the pay & emoluments, to which Thomas Y. Howe 2nd Lieutenant in the 11th Regiment of infantry, and also appointed by Major General Hamilton to the office of his Secretary, may be entitled. I consider to the question presented by the case of Mr. Howe, to depend entirely on the laws-a settlement with him must therefore await to opinion of the officer whose duty it is to decide in all matters relative to public accounts, arising under laws, or permanent regulations of the Departments I am Sir, Your obed. Servant James McHenry The Accountant of the War Department