[on Public Service] [Notation: J. Hap[undecipherable] n 3^d R. 2] Samuel Hodgdon Esquire [D. 2. 44 S.] Philadelphia [postal seal] [Docket, rotated: Major [undecipherable] — / [undecipherable] 1800 / Rec'd [undecipherable] Clothing [undecipherable] / [undecipherable] provisions [undecipherable]] [$45.5] Harpers ferry Virginia Dear Sir, July 14^th 1800 I am here by order of Major General Hamilton, for the purpose of recruiting five companies for the old Infantry Regiments, and have made handsome progress. I have reason to believe, that in a few weeks the full number will be had, & that I shall be in readiness to move on to the western waters. I have examined the Stores under the direction of Col. annin at this place, and find that many articles of clothing are wanting to complete the four companies, I therefore have taken the liberty to enclose to you a return, and upon you, that the public interest requires, that they should be forwarded to this place immediately, we have many men without uniforms and they are increasing daily. this you know Sir, gives them a much greater opportunity of deserting. If it should not be your particular duty to forward the articles agreeably to the inclosed return. I shall be much obliged, by your using your influence with those, whose duty it may be. I shall probably move my Rendez vous to Winchester before the waggon with the clothing from Phila can reach here, It will therefore probably be best to direct the waggon to that place. Will you be kind enough to acknowledge the receipt of this, as soon as it may arrive, and let me know whether, and at what time, I may expect the clothing? The best Route is through Lancaster, Wits ferry, Fredericks Town in Maryland &c — I am Sir, with great respect & esteem your most obedient. [undecipherable: probable reading "Haps"] Major 3^d Infty Samuel Hodgdon Esquire —