[Copy] War department. 24^th March 1794. Sir, I am instructed to transmit to your Excellency the enclosed copy of a law relative 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 South Carolina, 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. He will be directed to prepare & submit the 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 & Cannon designed for Charleston & Georgetown, and also the amount of the expenses to be incurred at those places, will hereafter be transmitted— If the State of South Carolina is in possession of any good Cannon, of and above the caliber of 18 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 appurtenances, 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 [Endorsed: H Knox / Sec at War / 24 March 1794 / Copy / Senate / 5 May 1794] His Excellency the Governor of South Carolina