[Si] Philad^a Dec 3^d 1800 I enclose Copies of two accounts which have been presented to me certified by Major Mackea commanding officer at Fort Mifflin they are for the repairs of the Old Wherry or barge (the one you crossed in over to the Island at the time you visited Fort Mifflin) I understand that she would have been useless and must have gone to wreck without those repairs which Major Mackea therefore directed to be done I paid the least account 87 but I doubt if it was proper for [strikethrough: one] me to do so without your directions you will be pleased to give me such orders as you deem right respecting them. I am Sir very respectfully your Obedt Servt Hon^ble Samuel Dexter Esq^r Secretary at War Enclosed Nailers & Plings