The Assistant paymaster-general has informed me that 240000 dollars, new emission, is sent to the pay-office by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to pay the troops of their line. The Committee from the army now at Boston lately informed me by letter that they had agreed with the Common-wealth on a complete settlement for the last years pay—and that in case any money arrived at the pay-office, it should be received for the present year. The troops belonging to the Common wealth, both officers and men are in extreme want of money. I request that orders may issue for their relief, as soon as your Excellency may think it convenient. The musters are made for January, February and March. April is nearly gone—and if your Excellency thinks proper that the troops should receive four months pay, the rolls can be completed in a few days for the present month. The wants and distresses of the troops are too well known to your Excellency to need my mentioning them.

I forward two deserters from Arnold’s corps—they report the capture of the frigate Confederacy. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant