War Department James McHenry Esq Baltimore Hon? by Col. Hughes War Department December 24. 1800 Sir Col. Hughes represents to me that a [illegible] of nine long 24 pounders and [illegible] shot 24 pds., said to have been moved by Mr. DeCosta, (Copy whereof I enclose)had been submitted to you, while to Secretary for that Department and that on examination of the report you directed the [illegible] to be received for the use of the United States. I beg leave to trouble you with the request that you will be as obliging as to state tome whether you have any recollection of the Circumstance. I have the honor to be Sir Very Respectfully Your mo. ob’dt Servt, Sam Dexter James McHenry Esq.