To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 31 May 1799
From James McHenry, 31 May 1799
War department 31. May 1799.
Sir,
There are about twenty five recruits at Kempsville in Virginia, under the command of Lieutenant John Hancock, who require the attendance of a Physician at the pay and emoluments of a Surgeons Mate. As it does not appear that there has been many recruits engaged for this some time past I would suggest the propriety of ordering Lieut. Hancock to repair with them to Norfolk about Six Miles distant, where a Mate in the service of the United States is stationed—
I am Sir with respect Your obedt. servant
James McHenry
(LS, Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress). On the cover H wrote a draft of his reply: "Write to Lt Hancock directing him to proceed with his men to Norfolk & there ⟨report⟩ himself under the command of Capt Blackburn till further order make that his recruiting station till further order—Inform the Secy of War that this has been done."