M[r]. Jno informs me that M[r]. Herbert the Assistant Constructor has really had the charge of all that pertains to the Navy Yard: and I suppose it will be necessary to continue him in that employment — Navy Yard Phil^a. January 1, 1796 Sir — I have considered Col. Claghorne's letter and have to observe that the mortices already sent on for the fore and aftersternwoods being of live oak perfectly coincides with his Opinion and ought to be adhered to. The lower part of the after deadwood may be formed by straight pieces of white Oak so as to compleat the deadwood agreeable to the Mouldit. It is contemplated to put a knee (which may be of white oak) to scarph on the Keelson to the Mizen Step and to run in the Throats of the Transoms to the lower deck and one Knee of the same wood to frame in the lower deck over the lower deck beams, as far forwards as the [undecipherable] and to run up in the throats of the Transoms to the [undecipherable: Siller?] port. The lower piece of Stem he has drawn is about the length of the one here, which I have considered sufficient though I could have wished it better, and if his pieces will answer of [undecipherable] the Scarpher as he most I am of opinion the Stem will be sufficient in three pieces and he ought to be directed to go on with it. His Keel bein[g] in four pieces it may be necessary to vary the number of pieces of deadwood in this he should have discretionary orders. I am with Esteem and Respect &c. [signed] Joshua Humphreys — Navy Constructor The Hon^ble Sec^y at War. War Office January 8. 1796 Sir Your letter dated Decem^r the 19. is answered by the enclosed copy of M^r. Humphreys letter to which you will please to conform. But in shifting the Midship deadwood you must be cautious not to place any butt near the Station of the Chain pumps: which are to be placed one afore and the other [undecipherable: abaft?] the Main Mast [as it may be of serious consequence to the safety of the Ship] if she should at any time strike the Ground so hard as to injure the Keel: in which case Oakum &c. may be unavoidably drawn into the pumps. Care should also be taken not to place any butts of the Garboard strakes near the pumps for the same reason — [M^r. Geo. Claghorne / Naval Const^r. / Boston]