Permit me most sincerely to congratulate you on the arrival of the french Fleet and to express my warmest Wishes for the Success of your future operations.

As soon as I arrive at Philadelphia I shall give Directions for the Deputy Paymaster to repair to the Head of Elk and make Payment of a Month’s Pay in Specie to the Detachment [un]der the Command of Genl Lincoln. I wish the States had enabled me to [d]o more, but it is to be lamented that the Supinenness of the several Legislatures still leaves the Servants of the Public to struggle with unmerited Distresses. It shall however be a Part of my Business to rouse them into Exertion and I hope soon to see the army better paid than heretofore and I confide that your Excellency will with every other Public officer exert your Influence to aid me in this necessary Task. with the greatest Respect I have the Honor to be your Excellency’s most obedt & humble Servt