[October 24. 1791 from Oliver Wolcott J^r. on Cap^t. Fenner's Claim] Treasury Department Comptroller's Office 24: October 1791. — Sir, I have considered the question referred to in your Letter of this date, and am fully of opinion, that the Unites-States are bound to make a reasonable compensation to M^r Fenner for his services, as Agent for the late line of North Carolina; on the settlement of his Accounts. — The resolution of Congress of the 27^th of May 1785, authorizes the States to settle with the Agents, and charge the compensations, which should be made for their services, to the United States. — in all cases, when the states have neglected, or refused, to make the proper compensations; the United States are still liable, especially, as by subsequent acts of Congress, the states are pre-cluded from making any farther payments, on account of the United States. — I am, very respectfully Sir Your Obed^t Serv^t [signature] Joseph Howell Esq^r