[War Office March 29^th 1794 from Sec^y of War to the Governor of Connecticut & appointments of Col Rochefontaine] [seal] His Excellency Samuel Huntington Governor of the State of Connecticut Norwich. War Department, March 29^th 1794 Sir The President of the United States has appointed the bearer Colonel Rochefontaine to direct the fortifications to be erected in pursuance of law, at New London, Rhode Island, Massachu setts, and Portsmouth, and he is directed to furnish your Excellency with a copy of his instructions from this office. As he will have to repair to many places, he will not in the first instance be able to stay longer, or do more than fix upon the spots under your Excellency's direction which are to be fortified, and put the business in train of execution. It is requested that your Excellency will please to appoint some suitable person to super intend the actual execution of the works — This person ought to have a general mechanical knowledge, and an aptitude to receive the directions of the Engineer, and he ought also, to be able to direct the labour of the [strikethrough: persons] in the greatest effect. The [strikethrough: persons employed] [strikethrough: in the] labour, implements, and mate rials of all sorts which will be required for this purpose by the Engineer, will be obtained by [strikethrough: a person] who will pay the expences, to the amount contemplated by law. Dependence will be placed upon your Excellency, to give the necessary countenance and facility to this important business which the nature of the case may require I have the honor to be, with great respect, your Excellency's, Most obedient Serv^t Knox Secretary His Excellency The Governor of the State of Connecticut