Reminds Bryant that all the returns need to list is what have been received and delivered since the last return. This will save Bryant trouble in the future. Informs Bryant he cannot receive a credit for the ducks until Hodgdon receives a voucher for them.

Updates Bryant on Augusts' return he received from Bryant. Informs Bryant that he did not receive any receipts for the stores noted as expended, therefore Bryant will not be credited for those. Notes that Mr. Ames should have given Bryant a receipt for the supplies he received.

Asks Bryant for further details on the type, number, and weight of various supplies and weapons listed on Bryant's return. Instructs Bryant to be more accurate and perfect in his returns.

Notifies Bryant he has not received any returns for the stores under Bryant's control. Informs Bryant a standing order from the Secretary at War (Benjamin Lincoln) requires all persons in charge of any stores to send monthly returns. Orders Bryant to punctually to comply with this order. Fragile.

Encloses (not included) a minute of the inaccuracies on Bryant's return that must be accounted for. Reminds Bryant again to provide more details on his returns and to remember to list all alterations. Says that full returns are unnecessary, Bryant needs only to list the adjustments since the last return sent.

Writes Bryant that he has spoken with the Secretary of War (Timothy Pickering) regarding howitzers and that they believe it is necessary. Instructs Bryant to complete the carriages and to suspend all other operations until he receives further orders. Discusses Bryant's accounts, tells him he needs to account for everything if he wants credit and to balance his accounts.

Requests a return (and the receipts) for every species of public stores under Bryant's care from the first of January. Says once the information is received Bryant's books will be closed. From that point on Bryant will only need to note alterations in his quarterly reports. Notes these orders are in compliance with Congress's and the Secretary of War's (Henry Knox) wishes.