To George Washington from Daniel Parker, 10 August 1783

We had the honor to receive your favor of the 26th ulto last Evening directing us to deposit in Fort Herkemer one hundred and fifty thousand rations of provisions, being a supply for 500 men ten months. We observe that your Excellency directs the Flesh part of the ration (consisting of pork and beef) to be of the best quality and well preserved to this End we are now taking measures for procuring the best Fresh beef and pork in this City which we shall have repacked pickled and put in the best order—Every exertion shall be made by us to procure a sufficiency of this kind of Beef to complete the order and we do assure your Excellency that the whole quantity shall be deposited as soon as the situation of the place will admit.

We think it necessary to suggest to your Excellency that unless Batteaux are furnished to transport the provisions from Schenectady to Fort Herkemer we shall be under the necessity of procuring waggons for that purpose which will greatly enhance the Expence. With the profoundest respect we are Sir Your Most Obedt Humble Servt