Procuring materials for frigates

Letter to the Treasury Secretary regarding copper and iron for frigates. Agrees with the decision to buy copper from England, but states that sailmakers universally agree that American-made material for sails is of better quality and less liable to mildew. Also comments on foreign affairs -- expresses relief that the tensions between Portugal and Algiers is now gone. Suggests that in a short time, it might be a wise idea to make a commercial treaty with Britain.