Submits a plan for the instruction of artillerists and engineers under the current laws. The law dictates 2 cadets per artillery company, or 64 in all, and 4 teachers & 2 engineers for instruction, with the War Department providing the instruments for teaching. Recommends that the teachers and an engineer be hired and that cadets be recruited and concentrated at a school. Sees it fit to mention that the cadets should probably be assured that future officers will be taken from their ranks; also recommends that a single naval midshipman be allowed to attend the school. Recommends a man to serve as the first engineering teacher.
Dexter wants to know when his salary will commence. His commission is dated 13 May 1800 and all the other relevant information is know to Wolcott. He encloses a letter from Samuel Hodgdon regarding land at Carlisle the purchase of which by the government has long been considered.
Simmons explained rules of account submission for all contractors and demanded O'Hara submit his accounts for examination immediately because he had not done so and was delinquent of Simmons' previous requests for account information.
Simmons sent account summary of Quartermaster General to Secretary of War per Dexter's request in order to review account and determine propriety of monetary advances to Wilkins with the current outstanding balance. Warrant issued in favor of James Miller, Wilkins attorney for which Wilkins is accountable.
Cass declares that he is at Harpers Ferry because of the orders of Major General Hamilton to recruit four companies for the old infantry regiment. He has made handsome progress and in several weeks the full number will be had and will be ready to move to the western states.He has examined the stores under the direction of Colonel Annin and finds a want of clothing so he forwards a return in hopes that the public interest will be served immediately. Men without uniforms can more easily desert.
Simmons received affidavit of John Winchester, sent by Stille. Winchester to receive the payment of his deceased brother, Simmons advised Winchester designate a person to collect the sum.
Expresses regret at the resignation of James McHenry from the position of War Secretary, worrying that he was pressured to by the "intolerable abuse of a malignant party".
