Henry Knox To John Bryant Regarding The Capture Of Some Thieves And The Transfer Of Weaponry 8 February 1786

Discusses the need to capture the villains who broke open the public store at Springfield Writes, In all cases of the kind the most vigorous search ought to be made to find out the culprits and to bring them to condign punishment... Notes he has transmitted a certificate from the paymaster stating that Captain Bryant never received the commutation and that you were never entitled to it... Also indicates he has ordered Ralph Pomeroy to transport two hundred tons of shot and shells from Salisbury furnace to the armory at Springfield, Massachusetts and asks Bryant to provide itemized receipts for the transfer. Instructs Bryant to have the shot and shells regularly piled by themselves in the public buildings and kept under lock and key. Discusses administrative matters related to Bryant's back pay. Written from the War Office. Free frank signed by Knox and stamped Free on address leaf.