Philadelphia 16^th Dec^r 1793 [doc. XXXIV-17] Sir It is disagreeable to me to be under the necessity of putting your attention as along a declaration, however the object I have fully communicate to you the moment that you as — posed a desire to know the motives, as it must have appeared to your mind, before explanation. I must now perform that duty — You have a right to expect you to State this — important improvement, as far as it strikes your understanding, and as far as his prudence dictates, to the President of the United States if Congress should resolve to build any number of Ships, for our safety and defence, ought not the President to place that building under an undertaker who is capable of building them on the highest stage of improvement. He may otherwise damage the expectations of our other powers so far to be attained. If any objections arise in your mind against the moderate, and gradual improvements that has regard. I presume you would have made them — But if your doubts as to the effect of the Ship is unknown to the world, you would have [undecipherable] this as objections — as if any doubt have arisen further from it I think it is proper to inform the President — if you fully apprehend what I now communicate to you and allow I had good mind to apply me with my motion to the scheme of my abilities. you must upon a little reflection perceive, that a delay will naturally prevent my further after you are in possession of a valuable work, frankly committed to your honor, and good faith. You say, I shall have a multitude of opponents — granted — but the more necessity for your early, and decided support. If you feel any awkwardness in representing any thing of this matter, to the President, pray write me such a Letter, as you really imagine I ought to have, on this subject, and I will wait on him with it — improving this opportunity as he may give me occasion to do so. I am very respectfully yours &c Stephen Sayre To General Knox, Secretary at War, &c