Philadelphia June 14th: 1793. Sir, (Private) By the Gazettes of to day, I perceive a Vessel is just arrived in this Port from New Orleans, on board of which are several of our Citizens; who, having passed down the Mississippi, are now on their return to the Ohio, their place of residence. - It is of great importance that this Government should be fully informed of the Spanish force in the Floridas - the number of their Posts - and the strength & situation of [struck: them] each; together with such other circumstances as would enable it to adopt corrispondent measures in case we should, in spite of our endeavors to avoid it, get embroiled in a dispute with that Nation. - It would be too improvident - might be too late - & certainly would be disgraceful, to have this information to obtain when our plans ought to be formed. - I desire therefore, that you would cause in as unsuspected a manner as the case will admit, the above persons to be examined touching the above points, and what number of Troops have lately arrived at New Orleans; and commit the result to Paper. - Were they to be examined separately, advantages might follow by comparing their accounts. - I point you to the above as one source only of information; my desire to [2] obtain a knowledge of these facts, lead me to request with equal earnestness, that you would improve every other to ascertain them with certainty. - No reasonable expence should be spared to accomplish objects of such magnitude, in times so critical. - Go: Washington [address] The Secretary of War Private