Transcription

War Department

6 May 1800

Sir,

Under the peculiar circumstances of having [resnerted?] of the President, permission to resign the office of the Secretary of the Department of War, and the uncertainty how long my official capacity may continue, I cannot but think it would be improper for me, to commence the business of the purchase of a site for a Cannon foundry, and ore banks, from Messrs Lee and [Brotts?]. Will it not be better, that you commence, as you will probably be in Office, to conclude the whole Negotiation.

I have the honor to be Sir your mo

Huble

Benj Stoddert