[from the War Department respecting the Fortifications of the ports & Harbours March 24. 1794.] [R- [undecipherable]] War department March 24 1794. Sir, I am instructed to transmit to your Excellency the enclosed copy of a law relatively to the fortifications of the ports and harbours therein mentioned. And as a judicious choice of the places to be fortified, and vigorous prosecution of the works may be of great importance to the State of Delaware — the President of the United States requests that your Excellency as the Commander in chief of its Militia would please to take upon you the general direction of the business. An Engineer will as soon as possible be appointed who will be directed to prepare, and submit plans of the works to your consideration, and upon your approving thereof to have them put into a train of immediate execution, some suitable provision will also be soon made to obtain the necessary materials & workmen The number of Men and Cannon designed for Wilmington and also the amount of the expence to be incurred at that place will be hereafter transmitted If the State of Delaware is in possession of any good Cannon of and above the caliber of eighteen pounds and which could be appropriated to the fortifications within the said State a return of them is requested, together with the condition of their carriages and apparatus in order that the necessary repairs be provided without delay — I have the honor to be with great respect Your obedient Servant H Knox Sec^y of War. His Excellency The Governor of Delaware