War department February 11. 1794 Sir, I have had the honor of receiving and submitting your letter of the 1. instant to the President of the United States. The subject of fortifying the principal Seaports of the United States in which is included Norfolk, is now under the consideration of a Committee of the House of Representatives who it is expected will very shortly report their opinion thereon. From the prevailing sentiment little doubt seems to be entertained that a measure with which the peace safety and dignity of the United States is so intimately blended will be adopted. The subject of a long continuance in our ports of vessels of War belonging to the belligerent parties had been previously considered; the result of which you will find in Mr. Jeffersons letter to Mr. Hammond the British Minister dated the 9 September last. It will appear that the Ships of War belonging to the belligerent powers, provided those at War with France do not bring prizes enjoy an equality in our ports. 1. In cases of urgent necessity. 2. in cases of comfort and convenience and 3. in the time they may chuse to continue. The case of the Ships of War on opposite sides being at Norfolk creates a delicate and dangerous situation for that Town — which nothing can remedy so effectually as its — being put in a state of respectable defence. Indeed some information has been received by which it would appear that the Dædalus had fired a shot in a very unjustifiable manner. The President of the United States requests your Excellency's information upon this subject properly attested so that such measures may be taken thereon as shall appear proper. I have the honor to be with great respect Sir Your obedient Servant. H Knox [undecipherable: Secretary of War] His Excellency Governor Lee of Virginia [Endorsement on cover: Secretary at War / Feby 11. 1794]