In the absence of the Secretary at War I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Your Excellency’s letters of the 4th, 5th and 9th instant— & the muster returns.

The Clothier General informs me that he has about three thousand frocks ready and would be able to complete the whole in three weeks were he furnished with money to pay the Workmen.

I have represented to Mr Morris your Excellency’s request that the frocks might be forwarded—he tells me there is not a shilling which he can at present apply to this purpose, although he is persuaded it is a very necessary measure.

I have the honor to transmit a letter from the Minister of France in answer to one from your Excellency accompanying the congratulatory address, which has been presented.

General Lincoln’s presence at Head-Quarters renders it unnecessary to reply to such parts of your Excellency’s letters as he will have already explained.

Your directions respecting the letter to General Hazen will be punctually observed. I have the honor to be, with the most perfect respect and Esteem, Your Excellency’s obedient humble servant