Head Quarters, January 15, 1783.

    Sir: The Commander in Chief desires me to inform you, that upon mature consideration he does not think himself authorized to give an Order for the payment of your forage Account; because it would be contravening the regulation of Congress, as fixed in the late system for conducting the Qr Mastrs Department, which enumerates the Officers who shall alone be entitled to draw forage from the public and because it would not only operate in the present case, but establish a precedent in future; however, His Excellency will represent the matter to the Secy at War on his return from the eastward and obtain his sentiments thereon: I send back your Certificate and Accounts that they may not be mislaid; and that you may have an opportunity of exhibiting them, whenever it shall be necessary. I am etc. ⁵⁸

[Note:The draft is in the writing of and the letter sent is signed by David Humphreys. ]