Timy Pickering Jany 25–1796 [undeciperable] [undecipherable] War department Mr Joshua Humphreys Naval Constructor Philadelphia (Circular) War Office January 25, 1796 for The Masting the Frigates now building having been submitted to several Gentlemen of considerable Abilities and reputed skill in Naval Affairs for their opinions as to the best proportions for masting the two Clafses [Classes] of Ships so as to answer all the purposes necessary for Ships of War but a diversity of opinions having arisen on the length of particular Masts and Yards I am induced [undecipherable] to propose that the Captain and Constructor of each Frigate shall have liberty to Mast and Spar their own Ships according to the best of their judgements– You will therefore pay an immediate attention to this subject in which Capt.n Barry will Afsist [Assist] and the result of your united opinions you will sign, that it may be transmitted to this Office as soon as convenient specifying very minutely, the exact length and diameter of each Mast, Yard and Bowsprit also the length and size of Mast heads and Yard arms, that they may be recorded in This Office I am with great regard Sir y.r ob.t Serv.t [Sir your obedient Servant] Timothy Pickering Mr Joshua Humphreys Naval Constructor