[James S. Deblois] Sir War Department. 6 June 1798 In answer to the several Enquiries contained in your Letter of the 24 Ultimo. I have to observe. 1st. It is determined that the Contract Price, at which the Rations of the Crews of the Ships of War of the United States are furnished at the Ports where the Ships are fitted out, shall be the data to fix the Payment of the Rations to the officers, till such Time as more regular Rules can be matured and established. — 2d. The Pursers will act till further orders as Pay masters to the Officers, Seamen and Marines. Money will be furnished them from time to time for that Purpose. — 3rd. The military & other Stores, will be placed in the keeping of the proper Officers agreeably to the printed Regulations. — 4th. The office of Marines will be charged with the keeping of the Marine Arms Accoutrements and Clothing. If at any Time, Slops are required of the Purser for the Marines, the Persons requiring them, will be charged with the Amount, and the same deducted from their Pay in the succeeding Payroll. —