On the 23d ultimo I took the liberty to address your excellency on some matters respecting the ascertaining the quantity of forage expended by the allied army in West Chester county the last campaign, and enclosed a copy of a letter from general Beville to colonel Pickering on the subject. The 20. instant is the time the arbitrators are to meet, unless your excellency should think proper to give any order in the case. As no return has been received from the french army of the number of horses, &c. kept by them, it must be mere guess-work, so far as it respects them. Perhaps it may not be improper to lay general Beville’s letter before the arbitrators, and, if your excellency approves of it, I wish to have it returned for the purpose, with any hints you may think proper.

Enclosed is a line I received yesterday from lieutenant-colonel Hull, who is one of the arbitrators. The arbitrators are to meet at Peeks-kill; and I wish to know your excellency’s pleasure, whether colonel Hull shall be relieved by a field officer of some other regiment, or his presence at Kings-ferry dispensed with during the sitting of the arbitrators.

Enclosed also is a letter I received yesterday from lieutenant Frye. Upwards of a year ago I represented his case to your excellency, and obtained your permission for him to be absent, to endeavour the recovery of his hearing. His letter shews his present condition, which I believe is deplorable He has been a good officer till unfitted for service. I can only lay his case before your excellency for such order as you may think proper. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant