Carleton, Secretary at War, writes from the War Office, possibly located in Annapolis, Maryland with Congress. Reports on the settlement of Major Job Sumner's case. Relates that troops from Connecticut, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania will be equipped as a result of the continued presence of British troops at forts on the northern frontier of the United States. Notes that New York will most likely raise its quota of troops as soon as the Harvest is completed. Free stamped and on public service written on address leaf with no signature.

Informs Carleton, acting Secretary at War, of the details of Major Job Sumner's difficulty in obtaining pay for his military service. Also discusses a letter from Frederick Haldimand, Governor of the Province of Quebec, recently transmitted to Congress by William Hull. Haldimand refused to inform Congress when British troops will be withdrawn from American posts on the northwestern frontier.

Informs Carleton, acting Secretary at War, of the arrangements he has made in response to the Congressional resolve of 2 June 1784 ordering the reduction of Continental troops.

Encloses a copy of a return of clothing wanted by troops. Asks Carleton, acting Secretary at War, if Congress has made progress toward approving the application: If you can have the clothing obtained, and forwarded to the troops you will render them an essential service as they must be exceedingly destitute of the Articles requested...

Discusses the engineers still in service. Asks Carleton, acting Secretary at War, about Congress' intentions regarding renewal of the contract with Daniel Parker & Co. to provide troops with supplies. Expresses concern that Robert Morris, Superintendent of Finance, has renewed the contract only until 5 May 1784.

Carleton, previous acting Secretary at War, discusses military matters with Knox, recently appointed Secretary at War (Carleton is handling business from the War Office in Knox's absence). Discusses the pay and rank of several officers, the disbandment of troops at Fort Pitt, and the proposed reduction of artillery pay. Writes, the recruiting business here goes on slowly - from this circumstance as well as some others, there is too much reason to apprehend that the time of holding the Southern Frontiers will be unavoidably procrastinated.

Knox informs Hardy, Chairman of the Congressional Committee of the States, that William Hull's mission to Canada failed. Hull had attempted to ascertain when Frederick Haldimand, Governor of the Province of Quebec, intends to withdraw British troops from United States posts. Transmits the original letter from Haldimand (not included). Writes, It is in indeed extraordinary that General Haldimand shall have received official information of the ratification of the definitive treaty of peace, and not at the same time have received orders respecting the delivery of the posts. Discusses Haldimand's refusal to exchange cannon and stores from the posts.