[Joshua Humphreys — Dec: 31. 1794. The Instructions of timber show Dimensions of the throats — Or capacities for & the Confirmation — for circular &c May 1795] [To the Hon.^ble Henry Knox Esquire Secretary at War • 6 copies to be made] [Humphreys Marines — D. W.] [burtolays — Claphams] Decem^t 31. 1794 Sir, As the floor vracing timber are ordered of live oak it will be necessary to reduce the throats of the 44 Gun Frigates to twenty inches and at the floor virmark to thirteen & half Inches, those for the 36 Gun Frigates to nineteen Inches, and at the floor virmarks thirteen Inches, both at the post Sills as before directed, [strikethrough: otherways] It will be necessary to bolt the Keel thoughtships at every three feet, [strikethrough: alternates,] upper & lower edge with Inch copper bolts, both large flat heads & [strikethrough: turned] and no plates to rivet on — After laying down the transom, I found the rudder could not be fitted with a round head, without weakening [strikethrough: the head] of the stem post [strikethrough: turned] more than would be prudent, therefore it would be better to fit them in the common way. The lower deck Transom to be sided sixteen Inches in both Frigates I am with much esteem & Respect. your &c Joshua Humphreys [n Secretary at War]