War Office. March 31. 1798. Sir Captain Truxton, who is appointed to command one of the Frigates of the United States, has presented a copy of his book entitled — "Remarks, Instructions, and Examples relating to the Latitude and Longitude &^c — with an Appendix on the masting of Ships, to each of the other Captains of the Navy of the United States, which he has requested me to transmit to them. — One to you accompanies this Letter. I also inclose to you a copy of a Letter from Cap^t Truxton, containing some remarks on an English book which I lately received, and put into his hands. He wishes that the subject of Masting &^c of Ships might engage the attention of the Gentlemen in particular who are engaged in the Navy, and that they would compare his principles and proportions with the dimensions of the Masts, and Yards prescribed by M^r Steel, the author of the English book, before mentioned, and and that their observations might be communicated, with a hope, that these may lead us to some useful improvement. Approving of his object, I have now suggested the same to your consideration; and request that you will favour me with such observations, as shall occur to you on the subject proposed. I am, Sir, your most obed^t Servant Timothy Pickering P.S. It may be well to consult the Constructor, and other Gentlemen acquainted with the subject, that your observations may be the result of the fullest information, and examination of which the case will admit. [address: [undecipherable]]