[Sam^d Hodgdon] [above 7] War Department 24^th November 1800 Sir I have received yours of the 19^th instant. I doubt whether it is for the Public interest to purchase M^r Cranch's Write and Tools, but will decide when I see an inventory of them with their prices and receive sufficient information concerning the state of them. Perhaps he has an equitable claim binding the United States to make the purchase. If so please to inform me. I have also received your favor respecting [underline: Jⁿ Williams]. If he is in distress let him have the fifty dollars. There is no appropriation for Educating Indians, and his son cannot be provided for. I am Sir Y^c P.S. you will please to Consider the Returns for the reserved Corps, Detroit & Niagara as perfectly distinct