[Secretary at War Concerning Embar go. Mar 26. 1794] WAR DEPARTMENT, Philadelphia 8 o'clock P, M. 26 March 1794. SIR, I am instructed by the President of the United States to transmit to your Excellency the inclosed resolve of Congress passed this day, laying an embargo for Thirty days, upon all vessels bound to any foreign port or place. The President requests that you will please to enforce the prompt execution of thesaid resolve, by the aid of the militia in all cases where the same may be necessary. I have the honor to be With great respect, Your Excellency's most obedient humble servant His Excellency the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia. H Knox Secretary of war. [All armed vessels possessing public commissions from any foreign Power (letters of marque excepted) are considered as not liable to the embargo] The object of this letter being exceedingly pressing copies hereof have been transmitted to the commanding officers of Militia of Alexandria & Fredericksburg — to act immediately in cases of necessity — H Knox