War Department, April 1, 1794 Sir You have probably heard of the determination of the general government to build a number of large sized frigates. In reviewing the characters within the United States most competent to assist with their advice on this occasion, you who constructed and built the Alliance frigate whose good qualities during the late war were much admired have not been forgotten. If therefore you could repair immediately to this city for the purpose of affording an opportunity of consulting you upon the best proportions to be adopted as a general plan for the vessels to be built, I shall consider myself as much obliged to you. Besides which you shall have your expences paid and a reasonable allowance for your trouble. [Mr. John Hackett / Salisbury]