[Docket notation: Secretary of [undecipherable] / Libo 24. March / 1794] [XXX] [Virg'd.] War department March 24^th 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 thereinmentioned. 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 Virginia the President of the United States requests that your Excellency as the Commander in chief of its Militia would please to take upon you this general direction of the business. An Engineer will as soon as possible be appointed. He 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 and workmen. The number of Men and cannon designed for Norfolk and Alexandria and also the amount of the expence to be incurred at those places will hereafter be transmitted If the State of Virginia is in possession of any good cannon of and above the calibre 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 obed Servants [signature] Ja^s H Knox His Excellency The Governor of Virginia