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.

Hull, commandant of West Point, encloses a letter from Joseph Carleton, writing on behalf of Congress, regarding engineers retained in service (refer to GLC02437.02954). Hull instructed Carleton to defer final reorganization of the engineering department until the arrangement could be confirmed by Knox. Encloses a certificate (not included) from Colonel de Miranda, possibly Francisco de Miranda. Notes that Miranda was recommended to him by Governor [George] Clinton and General Alexander McDougall among others. Of the certificate, writes: As it establishes a Fact with respect to a Point of Service in the first Garrison in Europe, it appears to me of some consequence.

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 Haldimand refused to inform Congress when British troops will be withdrawn from American posts on the northwestern frontier.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.

Carleton signs as executing the business of the War Department by authority from Congress. Requests information regarding returns of engineers who remain in service. Reports that the remaining engineers were assured by George Washington that ...they would be retained for the purpose of superintending the works and fortifications of the United States, that are now or hereafter may be established on the Frontier, for the prospection... of the Western Inhabitants. Written at the War Office.

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...

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.