[R Richardson] War Department 3[undecipherable]^st Decem[undecipherable] Sir I have received your letter of the [undecipherable]^th [undecipherable] with your bond enclosed. From the best information I have been able to obtain [undecipherable] I have reason to believe [undecipherable] correct. I should not think myself justifiable in making the Customary advance on the contract for the performance of the Stipulations of which the bond is intended. I therefore return it to you & request that you will immediately inform me whether you can procure sureties that will be more satisfactory. I am &c &c