I am honored with your Excellency’s favor of the 1st Instant. Upon examining the state of Ammunition, with reference to the proposed operations, it is found impossible to furnish more than fifteen Thousand Musket Cartridges for the Use of the State of New Jersey; especially at a time, when, we are obliged to sollicit a loan of Powder from the Eastern States, and when, the supply of lead in possession of the Public, is very incompetent to our wants.

It is unnecessary to mention to your Excellency that the strictest oeconomy should be enforced in the distribution & expenditure of so essential an Article. With great respect & esteem I am Your Excellency’s Most obedt Hble Servt